environmental impact assessment (eia) report of

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT (EIA)

REPORT OF

ANDHIKHOLA STORAGE HYDROELECTRIC PROJECT (180 MW)

GANDAKI PROVIENCE, SYANJA DISTRICT

(Volume I - Main Report)

Submitted to:

Ministry of Forests and Environment

Through

Department of Electricity Development

And

Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation

Prepared and Submitted by:

Nepal Electricity Authority

Environment and Social Studies Department

Lazimpat, Kathmandu

Phone No.: 01-4426772 and 01-4435800

Email: [email protected]

July 2020

mailto:[email protected]

cfFlwvf]nf hnfzoo'Qm hnljB't cfof]hgf sfo{sf/L ;f/f+z

EIA-Report ii NEA-ESSD

sfo{sf/L ;f/f+z

!= kl/ro

cfFlwvf]nf hnfzoo'Qm hnljB't cfof]hgfsf] k|:tfjs g]kfn ljB't k|flws/0f -g]=lj=k|f=_ xf] . k|:tfljt

cfof]hgf ;g !((& df klxrfg ePsf] cfsif{s cfof]hgfx? dWo] Ps xf] . cfFlwvf]nf hnf;oo'tm hnljw't

cfof]hgfsf] ;+efAotf tyf jftfj/0fLo cWoogsf nflu tTsflng pmhf{ dGqfnoaf6 ldlt @)&$÷)@÷)$ df

;j]{If0f cg'dlt kq k|fKt ePsf] lyof] . g]= lj= k|f= cGtu{tsf] jftfj/0f tyf ;fdflhs cWoog ljefun]

jftfj/0f ;+/If0f P]g, @)&^, jftfj/0f ;+/If0f lgodfjnL, @)&& tyf k|rlnt sfg'gL k|fjwfgx?sf]] cwLgdf

/xL k|:tfljt cfof]hgfsf] jftfj/0fLo k|efj d"NofÍg cWoog ul//x]sf] 5 . o; cWoogsf] d'Vo p2]Zo

cfof]hgf If]qsf] ljWodfg cj:yfjf/] hfgsf/Lx? ;+sng ug'{, k|:tfljt cfof]hgfsf] sfof{Gjogaf6 cfof]hgf

If]qsf ljBdfg ef}lts, h}ljs Pj+ ;fdflhs–cfly{s tyf ;fF:s[lts jftfj/0fdf kg{ ;Sg] k|efjx?sf] klxrfg

ug'{, cfof]hgfaf6 kg]{ gsf/fTds k|efjx?nfO{ Go"gLs/0f tyf lg/fs/0fsf pkfox? Pj+ ;sf/fTds

k|efjx?nfO{ k|j4{g ug]{ sfo{qmdx? k|:tfj ug'{ xf] .

o; k|ltj]bgsf] nflu tof/ u/LPsf] If]q lgwf{/0f k|ltj]bg tyf sfo{;'rL jg tyf jftfj/0f dGqfnoaf6 ldlt

@)&%÷!)÷!$ df :jLs[t ePsf] xf] . of] k|ltj]bg g]kfnsf] jt{dfg sfg'g / :jLs[t If]qlgwf{/0f k|ltj]bg

adf]lhd tof/ u/LPsf] 5 . o; cfof]hgfsf] ;+/rgfx? :ofङ्जा lhNnfsf] uNofË / jflnË gu/kflnsf tyf

sfnLu08sL ufpFkflnsf / kfNkf lhNnfsf] /Def ufpFkflnsfdf kb{5 .

@= cfof]hgfsf] ljj/0f

k|:tfljt cfof]hgfsf] hl8t Ifdtf !*) d]ufjf6 /x]sf] 5 . !&^ ld= afFwsf] prfO /xg] o; hnf;oo"tm

cfof]hgfsf] hnfzodf #$! 3g ld= kfgL /xG5 . h;af6 &=%@ ju{ ls=ld= If]qkmnsf] @! lsnf]ld6/ nfdf]

hnfzo aGg]5 . hnfzosf] kfgLnfO{ ^=$ ld6/ Jof; ePsf] sl/a # lsnf]ld6/ nfdf] ;'?Ë dfkm{t k7fO{ #@(

ld6/ prfOjf6 cw{e'ldut ljB'tu[xdf v;fOg]5 . cfof]hgfsf] l8hfOg axfj &# 3gld6/ k|lt;]s]08 /x]sf] 5 .

cfof]hgfsf] intake uNofË gu/kflnsf—@ df /x]sf] u'7L ahf/jf6 ^)) dL pQ/ klZrd cFlwvf]nfsf] b]a|]

lsgf/df / ljB'tu[x dflyNnf] uNofË ahf/sf]] # ls= dL = blIf0fdf /x]sf] 5qLdf sflnu08sL gbLsf] b]a|]

lsgf/df /x]sf] 5 .

o; cfof]hgfjf6 :ofङ्hf lhNnfsf] uNofË / jflnË gu/kflnsf tyf sfnLu08sL ufpFkflnsf / kfNkf

lhNnfsf] /Def ufpFkflnsfdf k|efljt x'g]5g . cfof]hgf :yn sf7df8f}Fjf6 @#$ ls=ld= sf] b'/Ldf /x]sf] 5 .

cfof]hgf :yn l;¢fy{ /fhdfu{ / sfnLu08sL A sf] kx'rdfu{ x'b} ;xh} k'Ug ;lsG5 . cfof]hgfsf] ;j}

cjojx?nfO{ ;xh kx'rsf nflu nueu &=%$% ls=ld= kx'Frdfu{sf] lgdf{0f ug'{ kg]{ 5 .

cfof]hgfsf] d'Vo cjojx?df afFw, OG6]s, ; '?Ëdfu{, ;h{ ;fˆ6, k]g:6s, law'tu[x, 6]n/];, kx'rdfu{,

k|zf/0fnfO{g cfbL x'g\ . o; cfof]hgfsf] cw{ e"ldut ljB'tu[xleq ^) d]ufjf6 If]dtfsf # j6f o"lg6x?

/xg]5g\ . o;k|sf/ cfof]hgfsf] hl8t Ifdtf !*) d]ufjf6 x'g]5 . o; cfof]hgfaf6 jflif{s ^&$ luufjf6

306f, ;'Vvfofddf @&# luufjf6 306f, / avf{df $)! luufjf6 306f law't pTkfbg x'g]5 . pTkflbt laB't

tnfO{ * ls=ld= nfdf] k|zf/0f nfO{g¢f/f lgdf0f{wLg sflnu08sL sf]/L8f]/sf] glhs}sf] 6fj/df nu]/ h8fg

u/Lg]5 . o; cfof]hgfnfO{ ;'Vvfofddf b}lgs ;jf * 306f k"0f{ Ifdtfdf rnfpg ;lsg]5 eg] jiff{ofddf

;f9] # b]lv !* 306f;Dd b}lgs ;+rfng ug{ ;lsg] 5 .

o; cfof]hgfsf] lgdf{0f cjlw @) dlxgfsf] tof/L cjlw ;lxt % jif{ x'g]5 . cfof]hgf lgdf{0fsf] r/0fdf bIf,

cw{–bIf tyf cbIf u/L s"n !@)) hgzlQm cfjZos kg]{ b]lvG5 . o; cfof]hgfsf] nfut s/Lj ?= %^ cj{

cg'dfg u/LPsf] 5 .


EIA-Report iii NEA-ESSD

#= cWoog ljlw

k|:t't jftfj/0fLo k|efj d"NofÍg k|ltj]bg ljBdfg k|rlnt P]g lgod / /fli6«o jftfj/0fLo k|efj d"NofÍg

lgb{]lzsf @)%), / EIA k|ltj]bgsf] nflu :jLs[t u/LPsf] If]q lgwf{/0f k|ltj]bg tyf sfo{;'rLsf]] cfwf/df

tof/ u/LPsf] xf] . k|:t't jftfj/0fLo k|efj d"NofÍg k|ltj]bg :yfgLo ;/f]sf/x? ;+usf] 5nkmn / :ynut

cWoogsf] cfwf/df k|rlnt sfg'gL Joj:yfx?nfO{ kfng u/L tof/ u/LPsf] 5 . cfof]hgfjf6 x'g] k|efj

d'NofÍgsf nflu cfof]hgf If]qnfO{ k|ToIf k|efj If]q / ck|ToIf k|efj If]qdf jlu{s/0f u/LPsf] lyof] . k|ltj]bg

tof/Lsf qmddf k|fylds tyf l4tLo bj}} k|sf/sf tYofÎ÷;'rgfx? x? ;+sng u/LPsf] lyof] . k|:tfjLt

cfof]hgfsf] :ynut cWoogsf] s|ddf, jgsf] nut ;+sng, :yfgLo / ;/f]sf/jfnf ;+usf] k/fdz{, cGt{jftf{,

;fd'lxs 5nkmn, 3/w'/L ;j{]If]0f, k|efljt 3/w'/L klxrfg cfbLnfO{ cWoog lalw jgfO{Psf] lyof] . o;

cfof]hgfsf] jftfj/0fLo cWoogsf] nflu :ynut cWoog @)&^ sf] ebf} dlxgfdf u/LPsf] lyof] .

cfof]hgf If]qsf] df};d -tfkqmd / jiff{_ sf] ljj/0f lålto ;|f]taf6 ;+sng u/LPsf] lyof] . afFw If]q -

cfFlwvf]nf gbL_ tyf ljB'tu[x -sfnLu08sL gbL_ df kfgLsf] lj:t[t cWoog ug{ gd"gf ;+sng u/LPsf] lyof]

. pQm kfgLsf] gd"gf kl/If0f ;fy} jfo'sf] u'0f:t/ / WjgLsf] :t/dfkg sf7df8f}+l:yt pRr k|ljlwo'Qm

k|of]uzfnfaf6 u/fOPsf] lyof] .

hnfzo / ljB'tu[x If]qsf] jg÷jg:kltsf] tYofÍ ;+sng l8lehg tyf ;j–l8lehg jg sfof{no :ofËhfsf]

k|fljlws ;xof]udf, ;fd'bflos jg >f]t ;j]{If0f @)^! nfO{ cfwf/ dfgL gd"gf 5gf}6 ljlwåf/f u/LPsf] lyof] .

pQm qmddf gd"gf Kn6 leq kg]{ ;Dk"0f{ ?vlj?jf klxrfg u/L ltgLx?sf] uf]nfO{ / prfO{ dfkg ul/of] eg]

Kn6 lnPsf] If]q aflx/ s'g} gofF k|hfltsf] ?vlj?jf kfOPdf To;nfO{ klg l6kf]6 u/LPsf] lyof] . To;}u/L

kx'Frdfu{sf] !) ld6/ ;8s If]qflwsf/df kg]{ ;Dk"0f{ ?vlj?jfx?sf] u0fgf u/LPsf] lyof] . df5f tyf cGo

hnr/x?sf] cfFlwvf]nf tyf sfnLu08sL gbLdf aiff{t / ;'Vvf ofddf u/L b'O{ k6s :ynut cWoog u/LPsf]

lyof] .

;fdflhs–cfly{s tyf ;fF:s[lts jftfj/0f cWoogsf] nflu cfof]hgfaf6 k|ToIf k|efljt 3/w'/Lsf] klxrfg

u/L tL dWo] !,!$$ kl/jf/x?sf] 3/w'/L ;j]{If0f, hnfzo If]qsf k|efljt x'g;Sg] k|To]s lglh tyf ;fj{hlgs

;+/rgfx?sf] lj:t[t gfk lnOPsf] lyof] . nlIft ;d"x;Fusf] cGtls{|of, ahf/ d"No ;j]{If0f, hfgsf/

JolQmx?;Fu cGtjf{tf, k|efljt wfld{s :ynx?sf] klxrfg ug]{ h:tf k|ls|ofx? canDag ul/ cfjZos

tYofÍx? ;+sng u/LPsf] lyof] .

:ynut cWoogjf6 ;+slnt tYofÍ tyf ;'rgfx?sf] cfwf/df jftfj/0fLo k|efj d"NofÍgsf] d:of}bf k|ltj]bg

tof/ u/Lof] . ;f]] d:of}bf k|ltj]bg pk/ /fo ;'´fa ;+sng ug{ Ps ;fj{hlgs ;'g'jfO{ sfo{s|dsf] cfof]hgf

u/LPsf] lyof] . ;fj{hlgs ;'g'jfO{ sfo{s|d ldlt @)&^ kf}if % ut] uNofË gu/kflnsf # l:yt >L efg'eQm

cfrfo{ df= lj= df ePsf] lyof] . o; sfo{s|ddf ^*^ hgfsf] pkl:ytL lyof] . cfof]hgf k|efljt gu/kflnsf,

ufpFkflnsfx?af6 l;kmf/Lz kq ;+sng u/LPsf] 5 .

$= cfof]hgf If]qsf] ljBdfg jftfj/0fLo cj:yf

$=! ef}lts jftfj/0f

k|:tfljt cfof]hgf ef}uf]lns ?kdf g]kfnsf] dWo kxf8L If]qdf kb{5 . cfof]hgfsf] ;Dk"0f{ ;+/rgfx? ;d'Gb|L

;txaf6 $)) ld6/b]lv !))) ld6/sf] prfOdf kb{5g\ . cfof]hgfsf] k|:tfljt afFw:yn ;d'Gb| ;txb]lv

%$# ld6/ prfOdf /x]sf] 5 . sfnLu08sL / cfFlwvf]nfsf] ;+ud:yn k|:tfljt afFw:ynaf6 @=% lsnf]ld6/

tn /x]sf] 5 . o; ;+ud:ynaf6 dfly cfFlwvf]nfsf] hnfwf/ If]q $&% ju{ lsnf]ld6/df km}lnPsf] 5 .

cfof]hgf If]qdf gbLau/, eL/kfvf], jg, v]taf/L ty a;f]af;:yn e"efu kb{5g . cfFlwvf]nf jiff{ofddf

jiff{sf] sf/0fn] axg] glb xf] . cfFlwvf]nfsf] hnfwf/ If]q @!)) ld6/eGbf d'lg /x]sf]n] lxdtfn ljikmf]6gaf6

x'g ;Sg] af9Lsf] vt/f 5}g . xfn cfFlwvf]nfsf] kfgL xfn hnljB't pTkfbg tyf l;+rfO{sf] nflu k|of]u

eO{/x]sf] 5 . cfFlwvf]nfsf] kfgLsf] u'0f:t/ hfFr ubf{ /fli6«o u'0f:t/ dfkb08sf] t'ngfdf k|b'\lift kfOPsf] 5 .


EIA-Report iv NEA-ESSD

$=@ h}ljs jftfj/0f

k|:tfljt cfof]hgf:yndf s'g} klg /fl6«o lgs'~h, jGohGt' cf/If jf sfg"gL ?kdf ;+/lIft If]q kb}{g .

cfof]hgf k|efj If]qdf @ j6f ;fd'bflos jgx? / Psj6f ;/sf/ ¢f/f Jojl:yt jgsf] s]xL efu kb{5 .

:ynut cWoogsf] qmddf ljleGg #% k|hfltsf ?vx? kfOPsf] 5 . h;dWo] d'Vo k|hflt ;fn, vo/, l;dn,

l;;f}, lrnfpg], af]6wo]F/f]] cfbL /x]sf 5g\ . cfof]hgfsf d'Vo cjojx? afFw, hnfzo, OG6]s, ;'?Ë, kx'Fr dfu{,

SofDk ;a} lghL hUufdf k|:tfj u/LPsf] 5 . cfof]hgf k|efljt lghL v/af/Ldf afSn} ?vn] 9fs]sf] 5 .

ljB'tu[x / hnfzo If]qsf] s]xL efu ;/sf/L÷;fd'bflos jg If]qdf kb{5 . cfof]hgf:yn j/k/ ljleGg

:tgwf/L / ljleGg k|hfltsf r/fx? kfOg] atfOPsf] 5 . cfof]hgf If]qdf kg]{ sfnLu08sL gbL / cfFlwvf]nfdf

u/LPsf] ;j]{If0fdf ToxfF kfO{g] #$ k|hfltsf df5fx? dWo lxpFb ofddf !@ k|hfltsf / jiff{df !* k|hfltsf

df5fx? kfOPsf] lyof] .

$=# ;fdflhs, cfly{s tyf ;f+:s[lts jftfj/0f

cfof]hgfaf6 b'O{ gu/kflnsfx? -uNofË / jflnË_ tyf b'O{ ufpFkflnsfx? -sflnu08sL / /Def_ k|efljt

x'g]5g\ . /fli6«o hg;+Vof tyf 3/w'/L ;j{]If0f – @)^* cg';f/, oL gu/kflnsf tyf ufpFkflnsfx?sf] s"n

hg;+8\Vof !#!,!&# 5 hxfF dlxnf %&Ü / k'?if $#Ü 5g\ eg] 3/w'/L ;+Vof #),!@! /x]sf] 5 . cfof]hgfsf

ljleGg cjojx? uNofË gu/kflnsfsf & j8fx? -j8f g+= @, #, $, %, &, * / (_, jflnË gu/kflnsfsf $

j8fx? -(, !), !# / !$_, sfnLu08sL ufpFkflnsfsf] @ j8fx? -j8f g+= % / ^_ / /Def ufpFkflnsfsf] Pp6f

j8f -j8f g+= !_ df kb{5g . cfof]hgf If]qsf w]/} h;f] a:tLx? 5l/Psf /x]sf 5g\ .

cfof]hgfsf] :yfO{ / c:yfO{ ;+/rgfx?sf] nflu hUuf clwu|x0f ubf{ !,@)) eGbf a9L kl/jf/x? k|efljt

x'g]5g\ h;dWo] !,!$$ kl/jf/x?sf] 3/w'/L ;a]{If0f ePsf] lyof] . ;j]{If0faf6 k|fKt tYofÍ cg';f/ ;j]{If0f

u/LPsf] k|efljt kl/jf/x?sf] s"n hg;+Vof ^,(#^ /x]sf]5 . h;dWo] k'¿if #,^$% / dlxnf ;+Vof #,@(! 5g\

. n}lËs cg'kft / cf}ift kl/jf/ ;+Vof s|dz !=!! / ^=! /x]sf]5 .

cfof]hgf lgdf{0f If]q cf;kf; /x]sf k|d'v a:tLx?df cfFlwd'xfg, z]/f, O{n'Ëf, uNofË, u'7L, df]tLrf}/, a]n6f/L,

8'8Lrf}/, 5/s, emf]n'Ë], afFof6f/L, cflb /x]sf 5g\ . ;j]{If0f u/LPsf k|efljt kl/jf/x?df du/, a|fx\d0f, If]qL,

/ blnt d'Vo 5g\ . k|efljt kl/jf/x?df lxGb' wdf{jnlDasf] adx'Notf /x]sf] 5 .

k|efljt 3/kl/jf/sf] d'Vo k]zf s[lif, kz'kfng, j}b]lzs /f]huf/, Jofkf/÷pBf]u, gf]s/L / Hofnf dhb'/L /x]sf]

5 . oxfFsf] vfBfGg afnLx?df wfg, ux'F, ds} / bnxg d'Vo 5g\ eg] t]nxg / cfn' d'Vo gub]afnL x'g\ .

3/w'/L ;j]{If0f cg';f/ w]/}h;f] kl/jf/x?df vfBfGg cefj /x]sf] b]lvG5 . kfOk, ;fj{hlgs wf/f, d"nsf] kfgL

/ vf]nf oxfFsf vfg]kfgLsf ;|f]tx? X'g . oxfFsf kl/jf/x?sf] d'Vo OGwgsf] >f]t bfp/f / PnkL UofF; /x]sf] 5

.

%= k|efj d"Nofª\sg

cfof]hgfsf]] ;sf/fTds / gsf/fTds jftfj/0fLo k|efjx?nfO{ klxrfg u/L ltlgx?sf] dxTjsf cfwf/df

d'NofÍg u/LPsf] 5 .

%=! ;s/fTds k|efj

:yfgLo :t/df cfly{s tyf Jofkfl/s lqmofsnfkdf a[l¢, /f]huf/L ;[hgf, l;k ljsf;, ko{6g k|j4{g

/ ljB't /f]oN6Ldf a[l¢ cflb o; cfof]hgfsf ;sf/fTds k|efjx? x'g\ .

%=@ gs/fTds k|efj

%=@=! ef}lts jftfj/0f

hUufsf] clwu|x0f / e"pkof]udf cfpg] kl/j{tg cfof]hgfjf6 kg{] d'Vo gsf/fTds k|efj X'g . cfof]hgfsf]

nflu (!# x]S6/ hldg :yfoL ;+/rgfsf] nflu / %@=*@ x]S6/ hldg c:yfO{ ;+/rgfsf] nflu cfjZos kb{5 .

cfof]hgf lgdf{0f r/0fdf x'g] cGo k|efjx?df e"Ifo, hn k|b'if0f, w'nf], ;jf/L;fwg jf6 lg:sg] w'jfF cflb

/x]sf 5g .


EIA-Report v NEA-ESSD

• s"n k|efljt hldgdWo] sl/a @&^=&)^ x]S6/ s[lif of]Uo e"ld, !&=&^% x]S6/ jg h+un, $$@=^^%

x]S6/ lghL v/af/L tyf afFsL !^* x]S6/ vf]nf / au/ 5g\ .

• cfof]hgf lgdf{0fsf] ;dodf hldg vfnL ubf{, hldg vGbf / ;DofpFbf / ef/L pks/0fx? k|of]u ubf{

hldg Iflos/0f x'g uO{ k|fs[lts ?kdf jftfj/0fdf gsf/fTds k|efj kg{ ;S5 .

• lgdf{0f If]q glhs /x]sf a:tLx?df jfo' / Wjlg k|b"if0f a9\g ;S5 . lgdf{0f sfo{, lgdf{0f ;fdfu|Lsf]

9'jfgL, pTvgg\, l8«lnª, Anfl:6Ë, ef/L pks/0fx?sf] ;+rfng, qm;/ ;~rfng cflb sfo{n] w'Fjf, w'nf],

Wjlg cflb pT;h{g eO{ jftfj/0fLo k|b'if0f a9\g ;Sg]5 .

• lgdf{0fhGo / SofDksf] 3/]n' kmf]x/ d}nf / 9nsf] sf/0f hn / hldg k|b'if0f x'g] ;Defjgf /xG5 .

cfof]hgfsf] lgdf{0f qmddf cfFlwvf]nf tyf sfnLu08sLsf] kfgLsf] u'0f:t/df gsf/fTds k|efj kg{ ;S5

.

%=@=@ h}ljs jftfj/0f

• k|:tfljt cfof]hgfaf6 @ j6f ;fd'bflos jgsf] !)=&@% x]S6/ tyf ;/sf/L jgsf] &=)$ x]S6/ k|efljt

x'g]5 (tflnsf %=@) . jg If]qleq lgdf{0f sfo{ tyf ?vx?sf] s6fgn] s]xL xb;Dd hLjhGt'sf] lx8\8'n

tyf jf;:yfgdf c;/ kg{;Sg] b]lvG5 .

• cfof]hgf lgdf{0f ubf{ pQm jgaf6 ljleGg !( k|hfltsf s'n *,!(@ j6f ?vx? sf6\g' kg]{ b]lvG5 .

To;}u/L, cfof]hgfsf sfdbf/ / u}/sfdbf/n] ug{ ;Sg] sf7bfp/fsf] k|of]u / u}/sfi7 jg k}bfjf/sf]

k|of]un] jgnfO{ k|ToIf k|efj kfg]{ ;Defjgf /xG5 . o;n] ubf{ :yfgLo h}ljs ljljwtf / ltgsf]

af;:yfgdf gsf/fTds k|efj kg{{ ;S5 .

• aGojGt'sf] rf]l/ lzsf/L, hnr/df kg]{ k|efj, af;:yfgsf] vl08s/0f / If]lt, cflb cfFsng u/LPsf

cGo ;Defljt k|efjx? x'g\ .

• cfof]hgf lgdf{0faf6 sl/j $$@ x]S6/ lghL v/af/L k|ToIf k|efljt x'g] b]lvG5 . lghL hldgjf6 sl/j

@ nfv @! xhf/ ?vx? s6fg ug'{kg]{ b]lvG5 .

%=@=# ;fdflhs, cfly{s tyf ;f+:s[lts jftfj/0f

• k|:tfljt cfof]hgfn]]] &*) x]S6/ lghL cfjfbL hldg clwu|x0f ub{5 . h;dWo] &%#=&(^ x]S6/ :yfoL

?kdf clwu|x0f tyf @^=@## x]S6/ c:yfoL ?kdf pkof]u ul/g]5 .

• cfof]hgfsf] hnfzo If]qdf s'n &!@ j6f JolQmut ;+/rgfx? tyf !$ j6f ;fj{hlgs ;+/rgfx? k|ToIf

?kdf k|efljt x'g] b]lvG5 .

• k|:tfljt cfof]hgfaf6 xfn ;+rfngdf /x]sf] cfFlwvf]nf hnljB't s]Gb| / To; cGtu{tsf] l;+rfO{ /

vfg]kfgL ljt/0f k|0ffnL k|efljt x'g] b]lvG5 .

• s[lifof]Uo hldgdf ;+/rgf agfpbf To;af6 x'g] pTkfbg dfl;G5 . lgdf{0fdf ;+nUg sfdbf/x?sf sf/0f

:yfgLo ;]jf;'ljwf h:t} ljBfno, :jf:Yo ;+:yf, vfg]kfgL, k|zf;lgs ;]jf, :yfgLo ahf/df cltl/Qm

bafa kg'{sf ;fy} :yfgLo ;/;kmfO{df ;d]t k|efj kg]{5 .

^= j}slNks ljZn]if0f

ljutdf ljleGg ldltdf (!((&÷(*, @)!#, @)!%, @)!*÷!() ePsf cfof]hgfsf] ;DefJotf cWoog

k|ltj]bgdf ePsf ;DefJo ljsNox?sf] cWoog u/LPsf] 5 . tL ljsNkx? dWo l8hfOg, e"uf]n, phf{,

jftfj/0fLo tyf ;fdflhs kIfx?nfO{ Wofgdf /fvL pko"Qm ljsNksf] 5gf}6 ul/ k|:tfj u/LPsf] 5 . o;}

s|ddf ljsNkx?sf] t'ngfTds tflnsf klg tof/ u/LPsf] 5 .

&= k|efj Go"gLs/0f tyf clej[l4sf pkfox?

&=! ef}lts jftfj/0f

• xfn ;lqmo /x]sf klx/f]x?nfO{ klxrfg u/L /f]syfd ul/g]5 . OlGhlgol/Ë tyf h}ljs k|ljlwsf] k|of]u

u/L hldgsf] l:y/tf u/fOg] 5 .

• sfdbf/x?nfO{ ljleGg Joltmut ;'/Iff ;fdfu|Lx? pknAw u/fO{g] 5 .

• cfof]hgf lgdf{0f ubf{ pTkfbg x'g] kmf]xf]/d}nfsf] plrt Aoj:yfkg ul/g] 5 .

• afFwaf6 crfgs 5f]l8g] kfgL af/] :yfgLo hgtfnfO{ ;hu u/fpg ;fO/g h8fg ul/g] 5 .


EIA-Report vi NEA-ESSD

&=@ h}ljs jftfj/0f

• k|rlnt k|fjwfg cg';f/ !!)#$$ lj?jfx? Ifltk"lt{ :j?k j[Iff/f]k0f ul/g]5 . j[[Iff/f]k0f ul/g] If]q,

jg:kltsf] k|hfltx? / cfjZos hUuf l8lehg jg sfof{no tyf ;fd'bflos jg;Fu ;dGjo u/L

ul/g]5 . j[Iff/f]k0f u/LPsf la?jfnfO{ % jif{;Dd x'sf{O x:tfGt/0f ul/g]5 . j[Iff/f]k0f / x'sf{pg] sfo{sf]

;Dk"0f{ vr{ cfof]hgfn] Joxf]g]{5 .

• hyfefjL u}/sfi7 jg k}bfjf/ ;+sng / jg If]qsf] cltqmd0f h:tf sfo{ k"0f{ ?kdf lgoGq0f ul/g]5 .

• jg ;+/If0f ;DaGwL tflnd / hgr]tgfd"ns sfo{qmd ;+rfng ul/g]5 .

• cfFlwvf]nfsf] df5f ;+/If0f ug{sf] nflu df5fsf] e'/f pTkfbg ul/ glbdf 5fl8g]5 .

&=# ;fdflhs, cfly{s tyf ;f+:s[lts jftfj/0f

• 3/ / hUufsf] clwu|x0f ul/Pdf k|efljt kl/jf/nfO{ plrt d'cfAhf k|bfg ul/g] 5 .

• cfof]hgfaf6 lj:yflkt 3/kl/jf/nfO{ PsLs[t a:tLdf k'g{jf; u/fOg] 5 .

• k|efljt kl/jf/x?nfO{ nlIft u/L pgLx?sf] ;fdflhs tyf cfly{s k|efj sd ug{, Ifdtf clej[l4 tyf

s[lif ljsf; ;DjGwL sfo{qmdx? ;~rfng ul/g]5 .

• :yfgLo ljsf;nfO{ ;3fp k'Ug] u/L :jf:Yo, ;/;kmfO{ / vfg]kfgL h:tf If]qdf cfjZos ;xof]usf]

sfo{qmd ;+rfng ul/g]5 .

• k|efljt kl/jf/x?nfO{ ljleGg k|sf/sf /f]huf/d"ns tflndx? ;+rfng ul/g]5 .

• cfof]hgf If]qleq x'g;Sg] ;fdflhs ljs[ltx? Go"gLs/0f ug{ ;fdflhs hgr]tgfd"ns sfo{s|dx?

;+rfng ul/g]5 .

• Dffly pNn]lvt sfo{qmdx? Affx]s ;fdflhs pQ/bfloTj cGtu{t cfof]hgfsf] s'n nfutsf] z"Go bzdnj

% k|ltzt /sd vr{ ul/g]5 .

*= ljBdfg P]g, lgod, lgb]{lzsf / cGt/f{li6«o ;+emf}tfsf] kfngf

jftfj/0fLo k|efj d"NofÍg k|ltj]bg tof/ ug]{ qmddf jftfj/0fLo kIf;Fu ;DalGwt k|rlnt ljleGg gLlt,

P]g, lgod, lgodfjnL tyf lgb]{lzsf / cGt/fli6«o ;GwL ;Demf}tfx?sf] k'g/fnf]sg u/LPsf]5 .

(= jftfj/0fLo Joj:yfkg of]hgf

cfof]hgfsf] lgdf{0f k"j{ / lgdf{0fsf] ;dodf ul/g] k|d'v sfo{x?sf] sfof{Gjogsf] lhDd]jf/L cfof]hgfsf]

k|:tfjs g]kfn ljB't\ k|flws/0fdf /xg]5 . jftfj/0fLo Joj:yfkg of]hgf cGtu{t cfof]hgf If]qdf Iflt

Go"gLs/0fsf sfo{qmd, jftfj/0fLo cg'udg tyf Jofj:yfkg of]hgf / cGo ;fGble{s ljifox?nfO{ ;xh

tl/sfn] sfof{Gjog Pj+ ;~rfng ug{sf] nflu 5'§} jftfj/0fLo Joj:yfkg PsfO{sf] u7g ul/g]5 . of] PsfO{n]

k|efljt kl/jf/, ;/f]sf/jfnf Tfyf :yfgLo lgsfo;Fu 5nkmn k/fdz{ ug]{ / jftfj/0fLo k|ltj]bgdf pNn]lvt

Go"gLs/0f tyf lg/fs/0fsf pkfox?sf] sfof{Gjogsf] ;'lglZrttf ub{5 . o; cfof]hgfsf] jftfj/0fLo

Joj:yfkg nfut -hUufsf] d'cfAhf ;lxt_ ?= !& ca{ ^$ s/f]8 cg'dfg u/LPsf] 5 . o;sf ;fy;fy} o;

cfof]hgf ;DkGg ePsf] @ aif{ k:rft cfof]hgfsf] jftfj/0fLo k/Lif0f u/Lg]5 .

!) ;fd'lxs 5nkmn

of] k|ltj]bg tof/Lsf] s|ddf :yfgLo tyf ;/f]sf/jfnf;+u uxg 5nkmn u/LPsf] lyof] . :yfgLo ;+usf]

5nkmn tyf ;fj{hgLs ;'g'jfO{jf6 k|fKt /fo;'emfj nfO{ o; k|ltj]bgdf ;dfj]; u/LPsf]5 .

!!=lgisif{

k|:tfljt cfof]hgfsf] k"j{ cg'dfg u/LPsf gsf/fTds k|efjx? Joj:yfkg ug{ ;lsg] vfnsf 5g\ .

cfof]hgfn] kfg{] gsf/fTds k|efjx? Hf:t} hUuf clwu|x0f, e"pkof]u kl/jt{g, jgh8\undf If]lt, ?v s6fg /

hnr/df kg]{ k|efj cflb kb{5g . cfof]hgfjf6 x'g] gsf/fTds k|efjx?nfO{ sd ug{ / ;sf/fTds

k|efjx?nfO{ a9f]Tt/L ug{ cfof]hgfsf] lgdf{0f / ;+rfng cjlwsfe/ w]/} k|efj Go"gLs/0f / clej[¢Lsf

sfo{s|dx? k|:tfj u/LPsf5g\ . o; cfof]hgfsf] jftfj/0fLo vr{ !& cj{ ^$ s/f]8 x'g] cg'dfg u/LPsf]5 .

h'g cfof]hgfsf]] s'n nfutsf] #!=%! % X'G5 . ;f/df, o; cWoog k|ltj]bg cg';f/, k|:tfljt k|efj

Go"gLs/0fsf pkfox? / cg'udgsf sfo{s|dx? sfof{Gjog ul/Psf] v08df o; cfof]hgf jftfj/0fLo /

;fdflhs b[litsf]0fn] :jLsf/of]Uo 5 .

Andhikhola Storage Hydroelectric Project Executive Summary

EIA-Report vii NEA-ESSD

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

1. Introduction

Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) is the project proponent of the proposed Aandhikhola Storage

Hydroelectric Project (AKSHEP). This project was identified as one of attractive projects in

1997. The proponent has obtained survey license from Department of Electricity Development

for feasibility and environmental study of a storage hydroelectric project in Aandhikhola on

2074/02/04 BS. Environment and Social Studies Department (ESSD) of NEA has been

preparing the EIA study report of the project as per the Environmental protection Act, 2076,

Environment Protection Regulation 2077 and other prevailing laws. The main objectives of the

EIA are to collect baseline information of the project area, predict likely physical, biological and

social impacts and figure out mitigation/enhancement measures and monitoring plan.

The Scoping Document (SD) and Terms of Reference (ToR) of the EIA report have been

approved by Ministry of Forests and Environment (MoFE) on 2075/10/14 BS. This EIA

document has been prepared as per the prevailing laws of Nepal as well the approved SD and

ToR documents.

2. Project Description

The proposed project has installed capacity of 180 megawatt. It is a storage type project with

167 m tall dam having 341 million cubic meter of live storage capacity. The dam will create a

reservoir of 7.52 square km extending about 21 km backwater. The project utilizes a gross

head of 328.6 m by diverting the Andhikhola flow through a 3.1 km long tunnel to a semi

surface powerhouse. Design discharge of the scheme is 73 cubic meter per second. The

proposed intake site is located about 600m northwest from Guthi, Galyang Municipality-2 and

left bank of Andhikhola. The powerhouse is located at Chharti on the left bank of Kaligandaki,

about 3 km south of Upper Galyang Bazaar.

The project-affected areas are Galyang Municipality, Waling Municipality and Kaligandaki Rural

Municipality of Syangja district and Rambha Rural Municipality of Palpa district. AKSHEP is

located about 234 km west of Kathmandu. The existing Siddhartha highway and the Kali

Gandaki ‘A’ access road provides easy access to the project site. About 7.545 km access road

should be constructed to make all the project components accessible.

The project components consist of headworks (dam, spillway, intake, and reservoir), headrace

tunnel, surge shaft, pressure tunnel (penstock), powerhouse, tailrace, access road,

transmission line etc. The powerhouse accommodates three turbine generators units each with

a capacity of 60 MW. So, the total power generation will be 180 MW. The power plant will

generate 674 GWh, with dry energy of 273 GWh and wet energy of 401 GWh. Generated

power from the AKSHEP will be evacuated through the 220 kV transmission line to the nearest

tower of Kaligandaki Corridor Transmission Line, which will be about 8 km long. The project is

optimized to run daily 8 hrs 15 min in full capacity in dry season and 3 hrs 30 min to 18 hrs in

rainy season.

The anticipated project construction period is 5 years including 20 months of preparation

period. The total workforce including skilled, semi-skilled and unskilled labor during construction

period is estimated to be 1200. Based on the preliminary design of project components, total

estimated project is USD 498.496 Millions (NRs 56 Billion).


EIA-Report viii NEA-ESSD

3. Study Methodology

The EIA report preparation process follows prevailing environmental act/rules and National EIA

Guidelines, 2050 as well the approved Scoping and ToR document. This EIA is prepared in

accordance with the legal requirements of GoN, based on field studies and consultation with

local people and officials. For this report, data and information was collected from primary as

well as secondary sources. For the project impact assessment, the project area was delineated

as Direct Impact Area and Indirect Impact Area. During field walkthrough survey, field

observation, GIS analysis, forest inventory, consultation with local people and stakeholders,

interview, group discussion, household survey, identification of Project Affected Families etc

were done. Field visit of this study was done in 2076 Bhadra.

Climatic data (temperature and rainfall) of the project nearby area were colletcted from

secondary sources. Water samples from dam (Andhikhola) and powerhouse (Kaligandaaki

River) area were tested in a high tech laboratory in Kathmandu for different parameters. Air and

noise quality were also measured at the project sites.

Forest inventory of the project impact area was done in coordination with DFO and Sub-DFO

office of syangja district. Following Community Forestry Resource Inventory 2061, sampling

survey was choosen to assess forest and vegetation of reservoir and powerhouse area. During

the sampling process, all types of plants and vegetation within the plot were identified and their

DBH and height were measured. Similarly, fish and aquatic life of andhikhola and kaligandaki

were studied twice in dry and rainy season.

To study socio-economic and cultural environment of the project impact area, affected

households were identified and 1144 households were surveyed. Public and private structures

within the reservoir area were measured. In addition, information were collected through FGD,

market survey, key informant survey, identification of project affected religious and cultural

sites.

Data and information were analyzed, interpreted and compiled to prepare a draft EIA report. A

public hearing program was conducted at the project site to solicit stakeholder's comments on

the draft EIA report. Public hearing programme was held on Poush 5, 2076 BS at Shree

Bhanubhakta Acharya Secondary School in Galyang Municipality-3, Galyang. There were 686

participants in the programme. Recommendation letters of the project affected municipality/rural

municipality/ward offices was also collected.

4. Existing Environmental Condition

4.1 Physical Environment

The project area lies in the hilly region. All the project facilities are within the elevation rang of

400 masl to 1000 masl. The proposed dam site of the project is at 543 masl. The Andhikhola nd

Kaligandaki confluence is about 2.5 km downstream from the proposed Andhikhola dam site. At

that confluence, watershed area of Andhikhola is 475 sq.km. Cultivation, forest, settlement,

water body and unarable land are the major landuse / landcover patterns of the area.

AandhiKhola is a rain fed river. Its catchment is below 2100 masl, so there is no risk of GLOF

event. Currently, water from Andhikhola is being used for irrigation and electricity generation.

Compared to national standard, water of Andhokhola was found polluted.

4.2 Biological Environment

Andhikhola storage hydroelectric project does not lies within any national parks, wildlife reserve

or any legally protected area. There are three patches of government forest (two CFs and a

GMF) within the project impact area. During field study, 35 tree species were enumerated in the

area. Major tree species are Sal (Shorea robusta), Khayer (Acacia catechu), Simal (Bambox


EIA-Report ix NEA-ESSD

ceiba), Sisau (Dalgerbia sissoo), Chilaune (Schima wallichii), Botdhanyero (Lagerstroemia

parviflora) etc. Many facilities of the project: dam, reservoir, intake, tunnel, access road, camp

all are located in private land. However, there is dense trees in private barren land of the project

impact area. Some parts of powerhouse and reservoir area lies within GMF/CF. Many species

of mammals, birds and herpeto fauna are reported in the project area. GoN protects some of

them In the Andhikhola and Kaligandaki river in project impact area, a total of 34 species of

fishes were reported, of which 12 species were collected in the dry season and 18 species

were collected in wet session from the same sampling stations.

4.3 Socio–economic and Cultural Environment

Two municipalities (Galyang and Waling) and two rural municipalities (Kaligandaki and

Rambha) are impacted by the project. According to National population and hausing census-

2011, total population of the project impacted RMs/Municipalities is 131,173 belonging to 30121

households of which, 57 % are female and 43% are male. Project facilities will impact ward no.

2,3,4,5,7,8 and 9 of Galyang municipality, ward no. 9,10,13, and 14 of Waling Municipality,

Ward no. 5 and 6 of Kaligandak RM and Ward no. 1 of Rambha RM. There are scattered

scattlement in the project area.

Land acquisition for permanent and temporary project structures and facilities will affect more

than 1200 families. Among them, 1144 households were surveyed during household survey. .

The total population of surveyed HHs is 6,936 including 3,645 males and 3,291 females. The

sex ratio and average HH’s size is 1.11 and 6.1 respectively.

The major settlements in the project area are Aandhimuhan, Shera, Elunga, Galyang, Guthi

Motichour, Beltari, Dudichour, Chharak, Bayatari etc. Magar, Brahmin, Kshetri and Dalit are

major ethnic group there. Hindu is the dominant religious group there.

Agriculture, animal husbandary, foreign employment, trade/business, service and labor are the

major occupations of the affected people. Major crops grown in the area are Paddy, wheat,

maze and legumes, and cash-crops like potato and mustard. Pipe water supply, public taps,

spring water, and river water are the major source of drinking water in the area. Fire wood and

LP gas are the major sources of energy fro cooking.

5. Impact Assessment

Envoronmental impacts: both adverse and beneficial, of the proposed project was identified and

evaluated for its significance.

5.1 Beneficial Impacts

Beneficial impacts of the project are increase economic and commercial activities, employment

opportunities, local's skill development, tourism development, increase in electricity revenue

and other.

5.2 Adverse impacts

5.2.1 Physical Impacts

The land take and land use change is one of the most adverse impacts. The project will require

913 ha land for the placement of permanent project structures and 52.82 ha for temporary

facilities. During the construction, other physical impacts might be soil erosion, pollution to

water sources, dust, vehicular emission etc.

• Out of total, 276.706 ha agriculture land, 17.765 ha forest, 442.665 ha private barren,

and remaining 168 ha river flood plain in particular will be impacted.

• There may be negative impact on the environment due to land clearance, excavation,

and using of heavy mechinary during construction period.

• There may be increase in air and noise pollution in settlements near to project

construction sites. There will be environmental pollution due to construction work,


EIA-Report x NEA-ESSD

transportation construction material, excavation, drilling, blasting, heavy equipment

operation, crusher operation and others.

• There may be land and water pollutions due to solid waste generated at camp and

construction area. Andhikhola and Kaligandaki river may be polluted due to the

construction works.

5.2.2 Biological Impacts

• The proposed project will affect 10.725 ha of two community forests and 7.04 ha of

government managed forest (Table 5-2). To some extent, construction work within the

forest area will affect animal movement and their habitat.

• During construction, 8192 individual trees of 19 species will be clearly felled. In addition,

there may be chances of overexploitation of firewood, timber and NTFPs by project labor.

Therefore, biodiversity and wildlife habitat may be negatively impacted.

• Possibility of poaching and illegal trade of wildlife, impact on aquatic flora and fauna, habitat

loss and fragmentation, are other likely impacts.

• During construction, 442 ha of private barren land will be directly impacted. In addition,

there need to be felling of 221 thousand trees.

5.2.3 Socio-economic and Cultural Impacts

• AKSHEP will acquire about 780 ha of private agricultural land of which 753.796 ha will

permanently acquired and 26.233 ha will temporarily acquired.

• Within the reservoir area of the project, 712 private structures and 14 community structures

will be impacted.

• The proposed project will affect Andhikhola Hydroelectric Project and associated irrigation

scheme, and drinking water supply system.

• Construction of infrastructure on agriculture land affect on agriculture production. There will

be pressure on local facilities like school, health post, water supply, administrative services,

local market and sanitation due to construction labours.

6. Alternative Analysis

Taking into account the previous feasibility studies carried out in 1997/98, 2013, 2015 and

2018/19, all possible options were studied. Among them optimized option considering technical

design, geology, energy, environment and social aspect was taken and proposed. Comparative

chart of all possible options was also prepared.

7. Mitigation Measures & Enhancement Measures

7.1 Physical environment

• All active landslides will be identified and stabilize using engineering and biological

measures.

• Personal protective equipments will be provided to constructions workers.

• Solid waste generated within the construction sites will be properly managed.

• Early warning system will be installed to alert people downstream to inform sudden release

of water in the river.

7.2 Biological environment

• As per the prevailing laws, 110344 seedlings will be planted as compensatory plantation.

Plantation area and speies will finalize in coordination with Division Forest Office and

Community Forest User Group. Plantation site will be managed for 5 years and will be

handed over. The project will manage cost for plantation and plantation site management.

• Overexploitation of NTFP and encroachment of forest area will be strictly controlled.


EIA-Report xi NEA-ESSD

• Training on forest management and awareness programme will be conducted.

• Fish hatchery will be operated to conserve fish of Andhikhola.

7.3 Social environment

• Families affected by land and structures acquisition will be compensation.

• Integrated settlement will be built to settle displaced people by the project.

• To minimize social and economic losses of displaced people, capacity development

program and agricultural development programme will be conducted.

• To promote development of the area, financial support will be provided on health, sanitation

and hygiene, drinking water and other sectors.

• Various skill development training programme will be conducted for project affected people.

• Social awareness programme will be conducted to minimize social issues in project area.

• In addition to that, 0.5 % of total project cost will be allocated for Community Support

Programme.

8. Review of Policies and Legal Provion

The proponent will be responsible for fulfilling the provisions of all relevant acts, plans and

policies, acts, rules/regulations policies, guidelines and conventions while implementing the

proposed project.

9. Environment Management Plan

Nepal Electricity Authority-the proponent of the project will responsible for implementation of

EMP particulars. A separate Environmental Management Unit will be established in the project

area to minimize environmental losses, to implement EMP and other relevant protection

measures. The unit will help to coordinate the project, affected families and stakeholders, and

ensure the effective implementation of EMP particulars. The estimated cost for environmental

management of the project (including land cost) is 17 arab 64 crore. After two years of the

completion of the project, environmental audit of the project will be done.

10. Public Consultation

Public consultation was intensively carried out during the EIA study. Comments and suggestion

obtained from public consultation and publich hearing program was incorpated in the EIA

report.

11. Conclusion

The environmental impacts/issues identified so far are manageable. Major adverse impacts of

the project are land take, land use change, forest loss, tree felling, impact on aquatic life. In

order to mitigate adverse impacts and enhance beneficial impacts, various mitigation and

enhancement measures have been proposed for the construction and operation phase. The

total environmental cost of the proposed project is estimated to be NRs. 17 arab 64 crore,

which is 31.51% of the total project cost. The EIA study concludes that the proposed AKSHEP

is environmentally and socially acceptable, if the proposed mitigation measures and monitoring

plan are implemented.

Andhikhola Storage HEP (180 MW) ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS

EIA-Report xii NEA-ESSD

ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS

CBS : Central Bureau of Statistics

CDR : Crude Death Rate

CFRD : Concrete Face Rockfill Dam

CITES : Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna

and Flora

CPUE : Catch per Unit Effort

DCC : District Coordination Committee

DFO : Division Forest Office

DHM : Department of Hydrology and Meteorology

DIA : Direct Impact Area

DoI : Department of Irrigation

DS : Drop Shaft

EIA : Environmental Impact Assessment

EMP : Environment Management Plan

EPR : Environment Protection Rules

ERT : Electrical Resistivity Survey

ESSD : Environment and Social Studies Department

FGD : Focus Group Discussion

FSL : Full Supply Level

FAK : Fish-Sampling-Station Andhikhola

GIS : Geographical Information System

GLOF : Glacial Lake Outburst Flood

GoN : Government of Nepal

GPS : Global Positioning System

HEP : Hydroelectric Project

HHs : Households

HSY : Himalayan Sediment Yield

IFSSP : Identification and Feasibility Study of Storage Project

IIA : Indirect Impact Area

IMR : Infant Mortality Rate

INPS : Integrated Nepal Power System

IUCN : International Union for Conservation of Nature

MoEn : Ministry of Energy (the then)

MoEWRI : Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation

MoFE : Ministry of Forests and Environment

MoFSC : Ministry of Forests and Soil Conservation (the then)

MoLE : Ministry of Labor and Employment

MoPE : Ministry of Population and Environment (the then)

MS : Microsoft

NEA : Nepal Electricity Authority

NNQS : National Noise Quality Standards

NTFPs : Non-Timber Forest Products

ODF : Open Defecation Free

PAA : Project Affected Area

PAD : Project Affected District

PAFs : Project Affected Families

PH : Powerhouse

PIA : Project Influence Area

Andhikhola Storage HEP (180 MW) ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS

EIA-Report xiii NEA-ESSD

PMF : Probable Maximum Flood

RM : Rural Municipality

SD : Scoping Document

ToR : Terms of Reference

AKSHEP : Andhikhola Storage Hydroelectric Project

VDC : Village Development Committee

Units

°C : Degree Centigrade

BS : Bikram Sambat

GWh : Giga Watt Hour

ha : Hectare

km : Kilometer

kV : Kilo Volt

masl : Meter Above Sea Level

m3/s : Cubic Meter per Second

km2 : Square kilometer

MCM : Million Cubic Meters

MT : Metric Ton

MW : Megawatt

USD : United States Dollar

Andhikhola Storage HEP (180 MW) Table of Content

EIA Report NEA-ESSD

TABLE OF CONTENT NEPALI SUMMARY

ENGLISH SUMMARY

Abbreviations and Acronyms ................................................................................................................. xii

Table of Content ...................................................................................................................................... xiv

List of Table ............................................................................................................................................. xix

List of Figure .......................................................................................................................................... xxii

1 Introduction ................................................................................................................................ 1-1 1.1 Background .................................................................................................................................. 1-1 1.2 Project Proponent ........................................................................................................................ 1-1 1.3 Organization Responsible for Conducting EIA ............................................................................ 1-1 1.4 Objectives of EIA .......................................................................................................................... 1-1 1.5 Rationality for Conducting EIA ..................................................................................................... 1-2 1.6 Scope of EIA ................................................................................................................................ 1-2 1.7 Structure of the Report ................................................................................................................. 1-3

2 Project Description .................................................................................................................... 2-1 2.1 Objective of the Project ................................................................................................................ 2-1 2.2 Salient Features of the Project ..................................................................................................... 2-1 2.3 Location of the Project ................................................................................................................. 2-3 2.4 Project Accessibility ..................................................................................................................... 2-6 2.5 Project Components ..................................................................................................................... 2-7 2.6 Construction Planning ................................................................................................................ 2-16 2.6.1 Land Acquisition and Forest Clearance ..................................................................................... 2-16 2.6.2 Construction Materials ............................................................................................................... 2-19 2.6.3 Requirement of Workforce ......................................................................................................... 2-21 2.6.4 Construction Power .................................................................................................................... 2-21 2.6.5 Project Cost ................................................................................................................................ 2-21 2.7 Reservoir Simulation .................................................................................................................. 2-21 2.7.1 Base Data for Simulation ........................................................................................................... 2-21 2.8 Power and Energy Production ................................................................................................... 2-23 2.9 Project Schedule ........................................................................................................................ 2-23

3 Study Methodology .................................................................................................................... 3-1 3.1 Desk Study .................................................................................................................................. 3-1 3.1.1 Literature Review ......................................................................................................................... 3-1 3.1.2 Legislation Review ....................................................................................................................... 3-2 3.2 Delineation of Project Impact Area .......................................................................................... 3-2 3.2.1 Project Affected District ................................................................................................................ 3-2 3.2.2 Project Affected Municipality/RM ................................................................................................. 3-2 3.2.3 Identification of Project Affected Families .................................................................................... 3-3 3.3 Field Study ................................................................................................................................... 3-5 3.3.1 Physical Environment ................................................................................................................... 3-5 3.3.2 Biological Environment................................................................................................................. 3-8 3.4 Assessment of Fish and Aquatic Life ......................................................................................... 3-13 3.4.1 Literature Review ....................................................................................................................... 3-13 3.4.2 Sampling Locations .................................................................................................................... 3-13 3.4.3 Field Survey ............................................................................................................................... 3-15 3.4.4 Laboratory Analysis .................................................................................................................... 3-17 3.4.5 Socio-economic and Cultural Environment ................................................................................ 3-17 3.5 Data Analysis ............................................................................................................................ 3-18 3.5.1 Physical Environment ................................................................................................................. 3-18 3.5.2 Biological Environment............................................................................................................... 3-18 3.5.3 Socio-economic and Cultural Environment ................................................................................ 3-19


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

3.6 Public Involvement/ Consultation .......................................................................................... 3-20 3.6.1 Consultation during EIA ............................................................................................................. 3-20 3.6.2 Public Hearing ............................................................................................................................ 3-20 3.7 Impact Identification, Prediction and Evaluation ........................................................................ 3-20 3.7.1 Impact Identification ................................................................................................................... 3-20 3.7.2 Impact Prediction ....................................................................................................................... 3-20 3.7.3 Impact Assessment/Evaluation .................................................................................................. 3-21 3.8 Limitations of the Study .............................................................................................................. 3-22

4 Existing Environmental Condition ........................................................................................... 4-1 4.1 Physical Environment ................................................................................................................... 4-1 4.1.1 Physiography and Topography .................................................................................................... 4-1 4.1.2 Land Use ...................................................................................................................................... 4-7 4.1.3 Climate ......................................................................................................................................... 4-9 4.1.4 Geomorphology and Geology .................................................................................................... 4-12 4.1.5 Seismology ................................................................................................................................. 4-22 4.1.6 Air Quality ................................................................................................................................... 4-23 4.1.7 Noise Quality .............................................................................................................................. 4-24 4.1.8 Water Quality ............................................................................................................................. 4-24 4.1.9 Watershed Conditions and Drainage Patterns .......................................................................... 4-25 4.1.10 Soil Erosion and Land Stability .................................................................................................. 4-26 4.1.11 Hydrology ................................................................................................................................... 4-28 4.1.12 Sedimentology ........................................................................................................................... 4-30 4.1.13 Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) ......................................................................................... 4-31 4.1.14 Existing Water users .................................................................................................................. 4-31 4.1.15 Physical Infrastructures .............................................................................................................. 4-32 4.1.16 River System and Ecological Integrity ....................................................................................... 4-32 4.2 Biological Environment............................................................................................................... 4-33 4.2.1 Spatial Relation to Protected Areas ........................................................................................... 4-33 4.2.2 Forest Resources ....................................................................................................................... 4-33 4.2.3 Dependency of Locals on Forest ............................................................................................... 4-39 4.2.4 Terrestrial Fauna ........................................................................................................................ 4-42 4.2.5 Protected Species of Flora and Fauna ...................................................................................... 4-43 4.2.6 Fish and Aquatic life ................................................................................................................... 4-44 4.2.7 Planktons and Microinvertebraet ............................................................................................... 4-51 4.3 Socio-economic and Cultural Environment ................................................................................ 4-56 4.3.1 Project Affected Districts (PADs) ............................................................................................... 4-56 4.3.2 Project Affected Area (PAA/RM/Municipality) ............................................................................ 4-63 4.3.3 Project Affected Families (PAFs) ............................................................................................... 4-76 4.3.4 Baseline Information of The Indigenous People (IPs) ............................................................... 4-87

5 Environmental Impacts.............................................................................................................. 5-1 5.1 Physical Environment ................................................................................................................... 5-1 5.1.1 Construction Phase ...................................................................................................................... 5-1 5.1.2 Operation Phase .......................................................................................................................... 5-5 5.1.3 Impact on Water User ................................................................................................................ 5-10 5.2 Biological Environment............................................................................................................... 5-15 5.2.1 Construction Phase .................................................................................................................... 5-15 5.2.2 Operation Phase ........................................................................................................................ 5-19 5.3 Socio-economic and Cultural Environment ................................................................................ 5-24 5.3.1 Construction Phase .................................................................................................................... 5-24 5.3.2 Operation Phase ........................................................................................................................ 5-31 5.4 Beneficial Impacts ...................................................................................................................... 5-33 5.4.1 Construction Phase .................................................................................................................... 5-33 5.4.2 Operation Phase ........................................................................................................................ 5-36

6 Alternative Analysis ................................................................................................................... 6-1


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

6.1 Introduction .................................................................................................................................. 6-1 6.2 Alternative Layout Study .............................................................................................................. 6-1 6.2.1 Project Layout according to the Feasibility Study Report of 1997/98 .......................................... 6-1 6.2.2 Environmental comparison of alternatives ................................................................................... 6-2 6.2.3 Project Layout according to the Feasibility Study Report of 2013 ............................................... 6-3 6.2.4 Project Layout according to the Feasibility Study Report of 2014/2015 ...................................... 6-3 6.2.5 Project Layout according to the Upgraded Feasibility Study Report of 2017-2018/2019 ............ 6-3 6.2.6 No Forest Option .......................................................................................................................... 6-4 6.2.7 No Project Option ......................................................................................................................... 6-4

7 Mitigation and Enhancement Measures .................................................................................. 7-1 7.1 Physical Environment ................................................................................................................... 7-1 7.1.1 Construction Phase ...................................................................................................................... 7-1 7.1.2 Operation Phase .......................................................................................................................... 7-4 7.1.3 Recommendation for future Study ............................................................................................... 7-6 7.1.4 Summary of Mitigation Cost for Physical Environment ................................................................ 7-6 7.2 Biological Environment................................................................................................................. 7-6 7.2.1 Construction Phase ...................................................................................................................... 7-6 7.2.2 Operation Phase .......................................................................................................................... 7-8 7.2.3 Enhancement Measures .............................................................................................................. 7-9 7.2.4 Biological Mitigation and Enhancement Cost............................................................................. 7-10 7.3 Socio-economic and Cultural Environment ................................................................................ 7-10 7.3.1 Construction Phase .................................................................................................................... 7-10 7.3.2 Operation Phase ........................................................................................................................ 7-19 7.3.3 Enhancement Measures ............................................................................................................ 7-21 7.4 Summary of Enhancement Measures ........................................................................................ 7-26 7.5 Community Support Program (CSP) .......................................................................................... 7-26 7.6 Summary of Environmental Mitigation, Enhancement & CSP Cost .......................................... 7-27

8 Review of Policies and Legal Provision .................................................................................. 8-1 8.1 Introduction .................................................................................................................................. 8-1 8.2 The Constitution of Nepal............................................................................................................. 8-1 8.3 Plan and Policy ............................................................................................................................ 8-2 8.4 Nepal Environmental Policy and Action Plan, 2050 and 2055 .................................................... 8-2 8.4.1 Fifteenth Five Year Plan (2076/77-2080/81 BS) .......................................................................... 8-2 8.4.2 National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan, 2071 .................................................................. 8-2 8.4.3 Hydropower Development Policy, 2058 ....................................................................................... 8-3 8.4.4 National Policy on Land Acquisition, Compensation and Resettlement, 2015 ............................ 8-3 8.4.5 National Forest Policy 2075 ......................................................................................................... 8-3 8.4.6 Landuse Policy, 2072 ................................................................................................................... 8-3 8.4.7 National Climate Change Policy, 2076 ........................................................................................ 8-4 8.4.8 National Environment Policy, 2076 .............................................................................................. 8-4 8.4.9 National Wetland Policy, 2059 ..................................................................................................... 8-5 8.5 Acts .............................................................................................................................................. 8-5 8.5.1 Land Acquisition Act, 2034 .......................................................................................................... 8-5 8.5.2 Soil and Watershed Conservation Act, 2039 ............................................................................... 8-5 8.5.3 Water Resources Act, 2049 ......................................................................................................... 8-5 8.5.4 Electricity Act, 2049 ...................................................................................................................... 8-6 8.5.5 Forest Act, 2076 ........................................................................................................................... 8-6 8.5.6 Local Government Operation Act, 2074 ....................................................................................... 8-6 8.5.7 Labour Act, 2074 .......................................................................................................................... 8-6 8.5.8 Environment Protection Act, 2076 ............................................................................................... 8-7 8.5.9 Environment Protection Act, 2053 ............................................................................................... 8-8 8.5.10 Explosives Acts, 2018 .................................................................................................................. 8-8 8.5.11 Child Labor (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 2056 ..................................................................... 8-8 8.5.12 Solid Waste Management Act, 2068 ............................................................................................ 8-9 8.5.13 Control of International Trade of Endangered Wild Fauna and Flora Act, 2073.......................... 8-9


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

8.5.14 National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act, 2029 ................................................................... 8-9 8.5.15 Land Reform Act – 2021 .............................................................................................................. 8-9 8.5.16 Right to Information Act, 2064 ..................................................................................................... 8-9 8.5.17 Contribution Based Social Security Act 2017 ............................................................................ 8-10 8.5.18 Landuse Act, 2076 ..................................................................................................................... 8-11 8.5.19 Consumer Protection Act, 2075 ................................................................................................. 8-11 8.5.20 Children Act, 2075 ...................................................................................................................... 8-11 8.5.21 Right to Employment Act, 2075 ................................................................................................. 8-12 8.6 Rules and Regulations ............................................................................................................... 8-12 8.6.1 Electricity Rules, 2050 ................................................................................................................ 8-12 8.6.2 Water Resources Rules, 2050 ................................................................................................... 8-12 8.6.3 Environment Protection Rules, 2054 ......................................................................................... 8-12 8.6.4 Forest Rules, 2051 ..................................................................................................................... 8-13 8.6.5 National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Rules, 2030 ............................................................. 8-13 8.6.6 Contribution-based Social Security Regulation 2018 ................................................................ 8-13 8.6.7 Water Resources Rules, 2050 ................................................................................................... 8-13 8.6.8 Electricity Rules, 2050 ................................................................................................................ 8-14 8.7 Guidelines and Working Procedures ......................................................................................... 8-14 8.7.1 National EIA Guidelines, 2050 ................................................................................................... 8-14 8.7.2 EIA Guidelines for Forestry Sector, 1995 .................................................................................. 8-14 8.7.3 Forest Production, Collection and Sales Distribution Guidelines, 2057 .................................... 8-14 8.7.4 Community Forest Guidelines, 2058 .......................................................................................... 8-15 8.7.5 Working Procedure and Standards for the Use of National Forest Land for National Priority

Project, 2076 .............................................................................................................................. 8-15 8.7.6 Order for Remission of Land Ceiling Exemtion, 2074 ................................................................ 8-15 8.7.7 Guidelines for Licensing of Electricity Project, 2075 .................................................................. 8-15 8.7.8 Social Security Schemes Operation Directives, 2075 ............................................................... 8-15 8.7.9 Hydropower Environmental Impact Assessment Manual, 2018 ................................................ 8-16 8.7.10 Forest Products, Collection, Sale and Distribution Directives,2073 .......................................... 8-16 8.7.11 Community Forest Resource Inventory Guidelines, 2061 ......................................................... 8-16 8.8 Conventions ............................................................................................................................... 8-16 8.8.1 Convention on Biological Diversity, 1992 ................................................................................... 8-16 8.8.2 Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES),

1973 ........................................................................................................................................... 8-17 8.8.3 ILO Convention of Indigenous and Tribal Peoples (No.169) ..................................................... 8-17 8.9 Standards ................................................................................................................................... 8-18 8.9.1 National Ambient Air Quality Standard, 2069 ............................................................................ 8-18 8.9.2 Nepal Vehicle Mass Emission Standard, 2069 .......................................................................... 8-18 8.9.3 National Ambient Sound Quality Standard, 2069 ...................................................................... 8-18 8.9.4 Standard on Emission of Smoke by Diesel Generators, 2069 .................................................. 8-18 8.10 Province Level Laws and Policies .............................................................................................. 8-18 8.10.1 9'Ëf, lu§L, afn'jf pTvgg, ;Íng, qml;Ë / ljlqmljt/0f tyf qm;/ pBf]u :yfkgf / ;+rfngnfO{ Jojl:yt ug]{ sfo{ljwL, @)&% ....... 8-18

9 Environmental Management Plan ............................................................................................ 9-1 9.1 Introduction .................................................................................................................................. 9-1 9.2 Objectives of EMP ........................................................................................................................ 9-1 9.3 Environment Legislation ............................................................................................................... 9-1 9.4 Environmental Management Plan ................................................................................................ 9-1 9.4.1 Environmental Management Activities ......................................................................................... 9-2 9.5 Environment Management Approach .......................................................................................... 9-6 9.5.1 Pre-construction Phase ................................................................................................................ 9-7 9.5.2 Construction Phase ...................................................................................................................... 9-7 9.5.3 Operation Phase .......................................................................................................................... 9-7 9.6 Management Plan for Downstream and Upstream Water User .................................................. 9-7 9.6.1 Downstream Water User .............................................................................................................. 9-7 9.6.2 Upstream Water User .................................................................................................................. 9-8


EIA Report NEA-ESSD

9.7 Implementation Approach and Mechanism................................................................................ 9-11 9.7.1 Project Stakeholders for Environmental Management .............................................................. 9-11 9.7.2 Institutional Arrangement and Responsibility ............................................................................. 9-11 9.7.3 Reporting Requirements ............................................................................................................ 9-14 9.8 Environmental Monitoring .......................................................................................................... 9-15 9.8.1 General Rationale for Environmental Monitoring ....................................................................... 9-15 9.8.2 Objectives of Monitoring............................................................................................................. 9-16 9.8.3 Requirements for Environmental Monitoring in Nepal ............................................................... 9-17 9.8.4 Site Inspections .......................................................................................................................... 9-17 9.8.5 Environmental Monitoring Plans ................................................................................................ 9-17 9.8.6 Monitoring Location and Agencies Responsible for Monitoring ................................................. 9-24 9.8.7 Monitoring Cost .......................................................................................................................... 9-24 9.9 Environmental Audit Framework ................................................................................................ 9-25 9.9.1 General Rationale for Environmental Audit................................................................................ 9-25 9.9.2 Environmental Audit in Nepal ..................................................................................................... 9-26 9.9.3 Types of Auditing ....................................................................................................................... 9-26 9.9.4 Agencies Responsible for Auditing ............................................................................................ 9-26 9.9.5 Auditing Parameters, Schedule and Agencies to be consulted ................................................. 9-26 9.9.6 Environmental Auditing Schedule and Cost............................................................................... 9-29 9.9.7 Environmental Mitigation, Enhancement, CSR and Management Plan Cost ............................ 9-29

10 Public Consultation ................................................................................................................. 10-1 10.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................................ 10-1 10.2 Approaches for Public Involvement ........................................................................................... 10-1 10.2.1 Public Consultation during Scoping Phase ................................................................................ 10-1 10.2.2 Public Consultation and Participation during EIA ...................................................................... 10-2 10.2.3 RM/Municipality Level Meetings ................................................................................................ 10-3 10.2.4 Public Hearing ............................................................................................................................ 10-4

11 Conclusion ................................................................................................................................ 11-1 11.1 Physical Environment ................................................................................................................. 11-1 11.2 Biological Environment............................................................................................................... 11-1 11.3 Socio-Economic & Cultural Environment ................................................................................... 11-1

References/Bibliography ............................................................................................................................ i

Andhikhola Storage HEP (180 MW) List of Table

EIA Report xix NEA-ESSD

LIST OF TABLE Table 2-1: Salient Features of the Project ......................................................................................... 2-1

Table 2-2: Project Affected Administrative Units ............................................................................... 2-4

Table 2-3: Detail of the Project accessibility ...................................................................................... 2-6

Table 2-4: Location of Borrow and Test Pit ..................................................................................... 2-14

Table 2-5: Location of Major Project components and Facilities ..................................................... 2-15

Table 2-6: Key Activities of Project .................................................................................................. 2-16

Table 2-7: Land Requirement for AKSHEP ..................................................................................... 2-18

Table 2-8: Details of Construction Materials with Estimated Quantities ......................................... 2-19

Table 3-1: Detail of Topographic Maps of Project Area .................................................................... 3-1

Table 3-2: Detail of Meteorological Stations ...................................................................................... 3-1

Table 3-3: List of persons involved in the EIA Team ......................................................................... 3-5

Table 3-4: Methods for Collection of Data related to Physical Environment ..................................... 3-8

Table 3-5: Detail of Sample Plot Design ............................................................................................ 3-9

Table 3-6: Methods for Collection of Data related to Biological Environment ................................. 3-12

Table 3-7: Fish Sampling Stations ................................................................................................... 3-14

Table 3-8: Methodologies used for Collecting Socioeconomic and Cultural Data .......................... 3-17

Table 4-1: Land Use of PAA .............................................................................................................. 4-7

Table 4-2: Land use of Watershed .................................................................................................... 4-8

Table 4-3: Land use of Reservoir at 710masl .................................................................................... 4-9

Table 4-4: Air Quality of Project Area .............................................................................................. 4-23

Table 4-5: Noise Level of Project Area ............................................................................................ 4-24

Table 4-6 Water Quality Table ......................................................................................................... 4-25

Table 4-7: Generated long-term monthly flow data of Andhikhola at dam site of AKSHEP ........... 4-28

Table 4-8:Discharge Available at Kaligandaki River and Andhikhola River .................................... 4-30

Table 4-9: Flood Frequency estimates for Andhikhola at damsite and powerhouse site ............... 4-30

Table 4-10: Water use for generation by existing Andhikhola HEP ................................................ 4-31

Table 4-11: Water used by existing Irrigation System ..................................................................... 4-32

Table 4-12: Vegetation Cover in PADs ............................................................................................ 4-34

Table 4-13: Status of Forest in PADs .............................................................................................. 4-34

Table 4-14: Affected Forest by the project ...................................................................................... 4-34

Table 4-15: Tree Species in the Reservoir Area ............................................................................. 4-35

Table 4-16: Fodder and Fruit Trees Found in the Reservoir Area .................................................. 4-36

Table 4-17: Use of Medicinal Plants by Local People ..................................................................... 4-36

Table 4-18: Tree Species in Access Road ...................................................................................... 4-39

Table 4-19: Forest Survey Data ....................................................................................................... 4-40

Table 4-20: Conservation Status of reported Species ..................................................................... 4-43

Table 4-21: Fish Species Observed in Samplings Stations ............................................................ 4-45

Table 4-22: Fish Species Recorded at Each Sampling Site............................................................ 4-45

Table 4-23: Species Diversity and Distribution Pattern ................................................................... 4-46

Table 4-24: Percentage Abundance at Sampling Station (using cast net) ..................................... 4-47

Table 4-25: Catch per Unit Effort (CPUE) at Different sampling station ......................................... 4-47

Table 4-26: Composition of substrate at different location .............................................................. 4-48

Table 4-27: Fish Migration Pattern in AandhiKhola ......................................................................... 4-49

Table 4-28: Phytoplankton Recorded at different Sampling Station ............................................... 4-52

Table 4-29: Population Density of Phytoplankton at different Sampling Station ............................. 4-53

Table 4-30: Macroinvertebrate Recorded at different Sampling Station ......................................... 4-54

Table 4-31: Number of Macroinvertebrate Recorded at different Sampling Station ....................... 4-54

Table 4-32: Demographic characteristics of the PADs .................................................................... 4-56

Table 4-33: Major Caste/ethnic group in PADs ............................................................................... 4-57

Table 4-34: Distribution of Religion in PADs ................................................................................... 4-57


EIA Report xx NEA-ESSD

Table 4-35: Distribution of Religion in PADs ................................................................................... 4-57

Table 4-36: Population and Literacy in PADs .................................................................................. 4-58

Table 4-37: Educational Institutions in PADs .................................................................................. 4-58

Table 4-38: Gender Status of the PADs .......................................................................................... 4-60

Table 4-39: Occupation Adopted by the People of PADs ............................................................... 4-61

Table 4-40: Status of Cultivated Land of the PADs ......................................................................... 4-61

Table 4-41: Major Touristic Places of PADs .................................................................................... 4-62

Table 4-42: List of the Religious and Historical Sites of PADs ........................................................ 4-62

Table 4-43: Demographic Characteristic of the PAA ....................................................................... 4-63

Table 4-44: List of Major Settlements in the PAA ............................................................................ 4-64

Table 4-45: Ethnic Composition in the PAA .................................................................................... 4-65

Table 4-46: Migrants of PAA ............................................................................................................ 4-68

Table 4-47: Water Source of PAA ................................................................................................... 4-69

Table 4-48: Demographic Features of PAFs ................................................................................... 4-76

Table 4-49: Families Structure of the Surveyed HHs ...................................................................... 4-76

Table 4-50: Distribution of Surveyed Population by Marital Status ................................................. 4-77

Table 4-51: Caste/ Ethnic Composition of the HHs ......................................................................... 4-77

Table 4-52: Distribution of Surveyed HHs by Religion .................................................................... 4-78

Table 4-53: Distribution of Surveyed HHs by Language ................................................................. 4-78

Table 4-54: Literacy Status (Population of 5 years and above) of Surveyed HHs .......................... 4-78

Table 4-55: Educational Attainment among the Literate Surveyed Population .............................. 4-78

Table 4-56: Source of Water for Domestic Use ............................................................................... 4-79

Table 4-57: Methods of Solid Waste Disposal among PAFs .......................................................... 4-79

Table 4-58: Distribution of Population by Broad Age Groups ......................................................... 4-80

Table 4-59: Occupational Composition of Surveyed Population (14 to 59 years) .......................... 4-80

Table 4-60: Distribution of Surveyed HHs by Landholding size ...................................................... 4-80

Table 4-61: Landholdings of the HHs by Type of Land ................................................................... 4-81

Table 4-62: Crop Area Coverage, Production and Yield of Surveyed HHs .................................... 4-81

Table 4-63: HHs having Livestock in the Project Area .................................................................... 4-81

Table 4-64: Food Sufficiency of the HHs by Own Production ......................................................... 4-82

Table 4-65: Food Deficiency of the HHs by Own Production .......................................................... 4-82

Table 4-66: HHs having Loan .......................................................................................................... 4-82

Table 4-67: Dependency on Business ............................................................................................. 4-83

Table 4-68: Average annual income of Surveyed HHs ................................................................... 4-83

Table 4-69: Category of Income of surveyed HHs .......................................................................... 4-83

Table 4-70: Average annual Expenditure of the PAFs .................................................................... 4-84

Table 4-71: Sources of Energy for the HHs for cooking purpose .................................................... 4-84

Table 4-72: Assemble Source of Fuel Wood of the HHs................................................................. 4-84

Table 4-73: Houses by Type of Wall ................................................................................................ 4-85

Table 4-74: Houses by Floor type .................................................................................................... 4-85

Table 4-75: Houses by Roof Type ................................................................................................... 4-85

Table 4-76: Houses by No. of Stories .............................................................................................. 4-86

Table 4-77: Attitude Regarding the Project by Type ....................................................................... 4-86

Table 4-78: Expectation from the Project ........................................................................................ 4-86

Table 4-79: Households Willingness to Relocate in Other Places .................................................. 4-87

Table 4-80: Reason for Unwillingness to Relocate in Other Places ............................................... 4-87

Table 4-81: Demographic Features of PAIPs .................................................................................. 4-87

Table 4-82: Distribution of Population by Broad Age Groups ......................................................... 4-88

Table 4-83: Distribution of Surveyed IPs by Language ................................................................... 4-88

Table 4-84: Educational Attainment among the Literate Surveyed Population .............................. 4-88

Table 4-85: Occupational Composition of Surveyed Population (14 to 59 years) .......................... 4-89

Table 4-86: Distribution of Households by Size of Landholdings .................................................... 4-89


EIA Report xxi NEA-ESSD

Table 4-87: Food Sufficiency of the HHs by Own Production ......................................................... 4-89

Table 4-88: Food Deficiency of the HHs by Own Production ......................................................... 4-89

Table 5-1: Mean Monthly flow of river during operational and non-operational hours ...................... 5-8

Table 5-2: Mean monthly discharge and reduced discharge .......................................................... 5-11

Table 5-3: Existing HEP at Downstream of Proposed Project ........................................................ 5-11

Table 5-4: Physical Environment Impact Assessment Matrix ......................................................... 5-12

Table 5-5: Loss of Tree and Poles in CF /GMF ............................................................................... 5-15

Table 5-6: Loss of Tree in Private Land........................................................................................... 5-15

Table 5-7: Tree Loss in Different Components................................................................................ 5-16

Table 5-8: Impact Assessment Matrix for Biological Environment .................................................. 5-22

Table 5-9: Private land use by Project Components ....................................................................... 5-24

Table 5-10: Affected HHs by Land Loss (Surveyed HHs) ............................................................... 5-24

Table 5-11: Caste wise Loss of Structures in Different Project Components ................................. 5-25

Table 5-12: List of public structures in the Reservoir area .............................................................. 5-25

Table 5-13: Annual Loss of Agricultural Production of Surveyed HH ............................................. 5-26

Table 5-14: Annual Loss of Agricultural Production from Permanent Land .................................... 5-26

Table 5-15: Annual Loss of Agriculture Production from Temporarily acquired land ...................... 5-26

Table 5-16: Caste wise loss of private trees (No.)........................................................................... 5-27

Table 5-17: Source of the Livelihood of the Project Affected Families ........................................... 5-27

Table 5-18: List of Potentially Benefitted HEPs ............................................................................... 5-36

Table 5-19: Impact Assessment Matrix for Socio Economic Environment ..................................... 5-38

Table 6-1: Comparison table of four options ..................................................................................... 6-1

Table 7-1: Preliminary Cost Break Down of Physical Environment .................................................. 7-6

Table 7-2: Cost for Training on Forest Management and Wildlife Conservation .............................. 7-9

Table 7-3: Mitigation Measures Cost ............................................................................................... 7-10

Table 7-4: Estimated Cost for Land Acquisition .............................................................................. 7-11

Table 7-5: Estimated Cost for Structure Loss .................................................................................. 7-11

Table 7-6: Annual Loss of Agricultural Production of Surveyed HHs .............................................. 7-12

Table 7-7: Value of total loss of Agriculture Production due to Land Utilization ............................. 7-12

Table 7-8: Mitigation and Rehabilitation Cost .................................................................................. 7-18

Table 7-9: Cost for Agriculture Intensification Training ................................................................... 7-21

Table 7-10: Cost of Horticulture Training ......................................................................................... 7-22

Table 7-11: Cost of Livestock and Poultry Training ......................................................................... 7-22

Table 7-12: Cost of Micro Enterprise Training ................................................................................. 7-23

Table 7-13: Proposed Skill Development Training ............................................................................. 25

Table 7-14: Summary of Enhancement Measure Cost ................................................................... 7-26

Table 7-15: Summary of Environmental Mitigation, Enhancement and CSP Cost ......................... 7-27

Table 9-1: Permits and Approval Plan ............................................................................................... 9-2

Table 9-2 : Tipping and Quarry Site Management Plan .................................................................... 9-3

Table 9-3: Pollution Abatement and Physical Environment Management Plan ................................ 9-4

Table 9-4: Terrestrial and Aquatic Ecology Management Plan ......................................................... 9-6

Table 9-5: Public Health and Occupation Safety Management Plan ................................................ 9-6

Table 9-6: Monitoring Plan and Schedule ....................................................................................... 9-20

Table 9-7: Environmental Monitoring Cost ...................................................................................... 9-24

Table 9-8: Environmental Auditing Cost .......................................................................................... 9-29

Table 9-9: Cost Estimate for Environmental Mitigation, Enhancement and CSR ........................... 9-29

Andhikhola Storage HEP (180 MW) List of Figure

EIA Report xxii NEA-ESSD

LIST OF FIGURE Figure 1-1: Scope of EIA .................................................................................................................... 1-3

Figure 2-1: Project Location Map ....................................................................................................... 2-3

Figure 2-2: PADs with Project Component ........................................................................................ 2-4

Figure 2-3: PAA with Project Components ........................................................................................ 2-5

Figure 2-4: Project Affected Wards with Project Components .......................................................... 2-5

Figure 2-5: Accessibility Map of AKSHEP ......................................................................................... 2-6

Figure 2-6: Project Configuration ....................................................................................................... 2-8

Figure 2-7: Storage-Area-Elevation Curve of the Reservoir ........................................................... 2-22

Figure 3-1: AKSHEP Delineation Map ............................................................................................... 3-5

Figure 3-2: Sample plot location in forest area ................................................................................ 3-11

Figure 4-1: (a) Slope Aspect and (b) Elevation Map of Watershed of AKSHEP ............................... 4-3

Figure 4-2: (a) Physiography and (b) Slope Map of Watershed of AKSHEP .................................... 4-4

Figure 4-3: (a) Physiographic and (b) Slope Map of the PAAs ......................................................... 4-5

Figure 4-4: (a) Slope Aspect and (b) Elevation Map of PAA ............................................................. 4-6

Figure 4-5: Land Use Map of PAA ..................................................................................................... 4-7

Figure 4-6: Land Use Map of Watershed .......................................................................................... 4-8

Figure 4-7: Land Use Map of Reservoir Area (at 710 masl) ............................................................. 4-9

Figure 4-8: Temperature (a) and Precipitation (b) of Syangja District ............................................ 4-10

Figure 4-9: Temperature (a) and Precipitation (b) of Palpa District ................................................ 4-11

Figure 4-10: Meteorological Station near PAAs .............................................................................. 4-12

Figure 4-11: Geological Map of Nepal showing Project Area ......................................................... 4-13

Figure 4-12: Regional Geological Map of AKSHEP ........................................................................ 4-13

Figure 4-13: Engineering Geological Map of Reservoir .................................................................. 4-14

Figure 4-14: Location map of ERT survey ....................................................................................... 4-18

Figure 4-15: (a) Geological and (b) Soil Type Map of PAA ............................................................. 4-20

Figure 4-16: Geological Map of Watershed ..................................................................................... 4-20

Figure 4-17: Soil Type Map of Watershed ....................................................................................... 4-21

Figure 4-18: Seismic Hazard Map of Nepal showing the Project Site ............................................ 4-23

Figure 4-19: Drainage Pattern of Catchment Area .......................................................................... 4-26

Figure 4-20: Long-term Mean Monthly Flow Pattern of Andhikhola at Dam Site ............................ 4-29

Figure 4-21: Project Location and Protected Areas of Nepal .......................................................... 4-33

Figure 4-22: Source of Water for HH of PADs ................................................................................. 4-59

Figure 4-23: Migration Trend in PADs ............................................................................................. 4-59

Figure 4-24: Working Age Population of PADs ............................................................................... 4-60

Figure 4-25: Population Distribution of the PAA by Mother Tongue ............................................... 4-66

Figure 4-26: Literacy Status of the PAA .......................................................................................... 4-66

Figure 4-27: Status of School Enrolment of Age 5 to 25 Years of Age ........................................... 4-67

Figure 4-28: Educational Attainment (%) of Population 5 years and above ................................... 4-67

Figure 4-29: Economically active Population of PAA ...................................................................... 4-70

Figure 4-30: Lightning Fuel Used by HHs of PAA ........................................................................... 4-73

Figure 4-31: Municipalities/RMs Wise HHs Electrification Status (%), Syangja ............................. 4-74

Figure 4-32: Municipalities/RMs Wise HHs Electrification Status (%), Palpa ................................. 4-74

Figure 4-33: Cooking Fuel Used by HHs of PAA............................................................................. 4-75

Figure 5-1: Hydrograph before and after construction of project at downstream of Dam Axis ......... 5-7

Figure 5-2: Hydrograph before and after construction of project at upstream of Tailrace ................ 5-7

Figure 5-3: Hourly variation of water flow during operation period .................................................... 5-8

Figure 5-4: Flood Regulation by AKSHEP on Andhikhola River ..................................................... 5-36

Figure 9-1: Organizational setup for Environmental Management and Monitoring ........................ 9-13

../../../../Aandhi%20khola/comment%20incorporated/kaushaal%20sir/Final%20EIA%20andhikhola%2007-21-2020.doc#_Toc46310937

Andhikhola Storage HEP (180 MW) Introduction

EIA Report 1-1 NEA-ESSD

1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background Andhikhola Storage Hydroelectric Project (AKSHEP) was identified as one of the attractive

projects among the screened and ranked storage projects during the ‘Identification and

Feasibility Study of Storage Projects’ (IFSSP) in 1997. The pre-feasibility level study was

carried out in the fiscal year 1996. The feasibility study of the project has been conducted in

various phases and completed in fiscal year 2075/76 BS. Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) is

the proponent of the proposed project. Recently, NEA has established Aandhikhola Power

Company Limited as its subsidiary company for development of the proposed AKSHEP.

1.2 Project Proponent NEA is the government owned sole agency responsible for generation, transmission and

distribution of electricity. The Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation (MoEWRI) has

granted a survey license on 2074/02/04BS to NEA for feasibility and environmental study. Its

license number is Be.Be.Be. 073/74 Be.Ue.Sa. 821, which was valid up to 2077/02/03 BS. The

survey license is attached in Appendix-A

Address of the Project Proponent:


Durbar Marg, Kathmandu, Nepal

Phone No.: 01-4220449; Fax No.: 01-4447969

Website: www.nea.org.np

1.3 Organization Responsible for Conducting EIA NEA, being the project proponent, is responsible to carry out the EIA of the proposed project.

NEA-ESSD has been assigned for the task of conducting Environmental Impact Assessment

(EIA) for the proposed AKSHEP. The Scoping Document (SD) and Terms of Reference (ToR)

of the AKSHEP have been approved by Ministry of Forests and Environment (MoFE) on

2075/10/14 BS (Appendix-H). This EIA document has been prepared as per the prevailing laws

of Nepal as well the approved SD and ToR documents. Moreover, this EIA report was prepared

in accordance with the terms and conditions (Condition no. Yaa,Ta Tha) of the survey license.

Contact Address:

Environment and Social Studies Department

Engineering Service Directorate


Lazimpat,Kathmandu, Nepal

Phone No.: 01-4426772 and 01-4435800

Email : [email protected]

1.4 Objectives of EIA The main objective of the EIA is to examine the most suitable and cost effective configuration of

the proposed project that would be suitable to the region's environment. In essence, the specific

objectives of this EIA are as follows:

• Identify the project impact area;

• Document the major physical, biological and socio-economic and cultural baseline

conditions;

• Identify potential positive and adverse impacts due to development and operation in

different alternative scenarios;

mailto:[email protected]



• Analyze the most critical adverse impacts;

• Examine and select the most optimal alternative from the various relevant options;

• Propose appropriate, practical, cost effective and site specific mitigation measures to

avoid adverse impacts for selected alternative and enhancement measures for positive

impacts;

• Incorporate the input of public opinions in the decision making process related to the

Identification of potential impacts, mitigation measures and project alternatives;

• Outline the elements of environmental mitigation, management, auditing and monitoring

into an Environmental Management Plan (EMP);

• Prepare the comprehensive EMP with mitigation, monitoring and auditing plans; and

• Provide recommendations on the overall feasibility of the project from an Environmental

perspective.

1.5 Rationality for Conducting EIA As per the Environment Protection Rules (EPR), 2054 and the amendment (published in

2065/11/26 BS on Nepal Gazette) made in EPR, 2054, Rule-3, Schedule-2, Clause-F, Sub-

clause 2; for any hydropower generation project of capacity 50 MW or above, an EIA is

mandatory. Since AKSHEP has installed capacity of 180 MW, the project requires an EIA.

Furthermore, as per Rule-3, Schedule-2 Clause-F, Sub-clause 5 of EPR, 2054, any water

resources development activity that displaces more than one hundred people with permanent

residence requires an EIA. As the AKSHEP is assumed to displace over 2,000 people in the

project-affected areas. Similarly, for any projects requiring forest area more than 5 ha, an EIA is

prescribed by EPR, 2054 (Rule-3, Schedule-2, Clause-A, Sub-clause 12). The project will

require about 17.765 ha of forestland for reservoir area, powerhouse, and access road (which

is more than 5 ha). Therefore, the EIA is obligatory for AKSHEP as per prevailing laws. This

EIA requirement is also in accordance with the conditions as recommended by the issued

survey license of the AKSHEP (Appendix-A).

Similarly, As per the Environment Protection Rules (EPR)-2077 Rule-3, Schedule 3 Clause-

“chha”, Sub-Clause 1-ka and 3; and Clause-“ka”, Sub-clause 9, an EIA is mandatory for

AKSHEP.

1.6 Scope of EIA The scope of EIA in terms of project components includes hydroelectric components (dam,

powerhouse and reservoir), access road (7.545 km), project facilities (camps and storage

yards), construction power arrangement, crusher plant installation, quarry activity, etc. The

study of transmission line component and associated substations of AKSHEP is beyond the

scope of this EIA. The environmental study of TL component to evacuate the power generated

from the project to the INPS will be studied under separate license permission.

The scope of EIA in terms of geographical area of AKSHEP covers the administrative and

geographical boundaries of the project influence area (PIA) and project affected district (PAD)

in general (Figure 1-1). In specific terms, the study covers the administrative limits or boundary

of the project affected area (PAA). The PAA includes those Rural Municipalities (RMs) and

Municipality where the project is proposed. The PAA is further divided into direct impact area

(DIA) - the areas to be occupied by the footprints of project structures and indirect impact area

(IIA) referring to the area outside the DIA up to the administrative boundary of RM/Municipality.



The scope of EIA includes the elements of the environment (physical, biological and socio-

economic and cultural). The EIA study has covered the elements of the environment in general

for the PIA and PAD and PAA in detail.

Figure 1-1: Scope of EIA

1.7 Structure of the Report The EIA report is divided into two volumes- Volume I as Main Report and Volume II as

Appendices. Volume I consists of eleven chapters. Chapter-1 consists of introductory

information of the project. Chapter-2 contains the project descriptions including the reservoir,

dam, powerhouse and access road, construction planning and project area delineation.

Chapter-3 discusses about the data requirement and the methodology adopted for the

collection of data on physical, biological, socioeconomic, and cultural environment of the area.

This chapter also highlights the techniques used for data analysis and impact assessment.

Chapter-4 deals with the existing environmental conditions of the project area with respect to

physical, biological, and socioeconomic and cultural environment. The positive and adverse

impacts likely to occur due to implementation of the project are given in Chapter-5.

Likewise, alternative assessment for the substation and alignment is presented in Chapter-6.

Chapter-7 deals with the environmental enhancement and mitigation measures. Chapter-8

analyses the relevant national acts, policies, rules and guidelines required for the preparation of

the report and implementation of the project. The environmental management plan is presented

in Chapter-9. The public consultation carried out for the preparation of this report is described in

Chapter-10. Finally, the conclusions of the study are presented in Chapter-11.

Andhikhola Storage HEP (180MW) Project Description


2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION

2.1 Objective of the Project The AKSHEP intends to generate electricity from Andhikhola, which is the major tributary of

Kaligandaki River in Gandaki basin. With the construction of storage project in Andhikhola, it

aims to balance the power demand and reduces the ongoing energy crisis and help in the

overall development of the nation.

2.2 Salient Features of the Project The proposed project is a storage type project with live storage of 341 MCM and installed

capacity of 180 MW. The project-affected districts are Syangja and Palpa. The project layout

and design of major structures are based on the result of project optimization study. The project

utilizes a gross head of 328.6 m by diverting the Andhikhola flow through a 3.1 km long tunnel

to a semi surface powerhouse near Charti, on the left bank of Kaligandaki River. The design

discharge of the scheme is 73 m3/s. Table 2-1 depicts the salient features of the proposed

project.

Table 2-1: Salient Features of the Project

SN Feature Description

1 Name of the Project Andhikhola Storage Hydroelectric Project (AKSHEP)

2 General

Province Gandaki 5

Affected Districts Syangja Palpa

Affected RM/Municipality* Kaligandaki, Galyang* and Waling* Rambha

Number of surveyed HHs 1144

Number of displaced HHs 572

Construction Period 5 Years

Installed Capacity 180 MW

Gross Head 328.6 m

Design Discharge 73 m3/s

Design Flood 4800m3/s (10,000 years)

Spillway Design Flood 4800m3/s (1 in 10,000 years flood)

Project Area 83°45'00" E to 83°35'00" E

27°59'00" N to 27°55'00" N Syanja and Palpa Districts

3 Project Component

3.1 Dam

Type Concrete face Rock-filled

Crest EL. of Dam 710 masl

River Bed level at Dam axis. 543 masl

Height (from bed level) 167m

Crest Width 10 m

Crest Length 483.6 m

U/S Slope 1:1.6

D/S Slope 1:1.6

3.2 Reservoir

Length 21.7 km

Full Supply Level (FSL) 700 masl

Minimum Operation Level (MOL) 623 masl

Total Storage 401 MCM

Live Storage 341 MCM

Dead Storage 60 MCM

Reservoir Surface Area at FSL 7.52 sq.km (without buffer zone)

Reservoir Life 50 years

3.3 Intake




Type Sloping Intake

Intake opening 5 m x 11 m

Number of gates 4

Intake Invert level 611masl

3.4 Headrace Tunnel

Length 3.112 km

Diameter 6.4 m

Shape Circular

3.5 Surge Shaft

Type Restricted Orifice Type (RCC Lined)

Internal Diameter 12 m

Height 137.1 m

3.6 Pressure Tunnel (Penstock)

Type Steel Lined Circular

Diameter 4.6m

Length 1649.0 m

3.7 Powerhouse

Type Semi Surface

Length 90m

Breadth 23.5m

Height 39m

3.8 Switch Yard

Type Outdoor

Length 105m

Breadth 62m

Elevation of Yard 462masl

3.9 Turbine

Type Vertical Axis Francis Turbine

Number of units 3

Installed Capacity 3 x 60 MW (180 MW)

Turbine Center Level 369.3 masl

3.10 Tailrace Channel

Length 93 m

Tail Water Level (TWL) 371.4 masl

3.11 Proposed Access Road

Length

7.545 km (1.4km to the dam site, 2.213km to the intake

site, 0.57 km to the surge shaft site,0.830 km to Adit-II and

2.532 km to the powerhouse site).

3.12 Adit Tunnel

Tunnel Type Inverted D-Shape Tunnel (6m X 6m)

Adit at Intake (Adit-1) Length=272 m

Adit at Surge Tank (Adit-2) Length=433 m

Adit at Powerhouse (Adit-3) Length=183 m

3.13 Transmission line (To be studied separately under another license)

Length 8 km double circuit (220 kV Kaligandaki Corridor TL)

Voltage 220 kV

4 Hydrology

Affected Basin Gandaki

Catchment Area 473.87 km2 for dam site

Design Discharge 73 m3/s

5 Energy

Operation Hour 8.25 hours in dry season and 3.5 to 18 hours in wet season




Dry Season Generation 270.53 GWh

Wet Season Generation 405.77 GWh

Total Energy 676.29GWh

Dry Energy 40.00%

6 Biological features

Area of Forest impacted 17.765 ha

Community Forest/Government

Managed Forest (number) Two CFs and one GMFs

Estimated number of trees to be

felled in forest 8134

7 Total Project Cost USD 498.496 Million

8 Project construction period 82 months

9 Project Economics

Benefit Cost Ratio 1.33

EIRR 14.14%

* Refers Municipality Source: AKSHEP Feasibility Reprot, 2019

2.3 Location of the Project AKSHEP is located about 234 km west of Kathmandu in Syangja District of Gandaki province

and Palpa District of Province no. 5 in the Western Nepal (Figure 2 1). A province is an

administrative division with in a country. There are 7 provinces in Nepal. The provinces of

Nepal were formed on 20 September 2015 in accordance with schedule 4 of the constutation of

Nepal. The geographical location of the project is between Latitude 27055’00”N and 27059’00”N

and between Longitude 83˚35’00”E to 83˚45’00”E. The dam site is located on Andhikhola gorge

at about 2.7 km upstream of its confluence with the Kaligandaki River. The powerhouse is

located at Chharti on the left bank of Kaligandaki, about 3 km south of Upper Galyang Bazaar.

The proposed intake site is located about 600m northwest from Guthi, Galyang Municipality-2

and left bank of Andhikhola.

Figure 2-1: Project Location Map

Source: Department of Survey, GIS Analysis



Altogether two RMs (each of Syangja and Palpa) and two municipalities of Syangja District will

be affected by the project. Almost all part of the project components lies within Syangja District.

Palpa district shall be only affected by the tail water discharge. The project affected RM /

Municipality, termed as PAAs, and presented in Table 2-2 below.

Table 2-2: Project Affected Administrative Units

SN PAD

Project Affected Current Administrative

Units Previous Adminsitrative Units

RM/ Municipality*

Ward Project Affected

VDCs/Municipality Other Merged VDCs (not affected by the project)

1 Syangja

Kaligandaki 5, 6 Shreekrishna Gandaki

Chandibhanjyang, Alamdebi and Birgha-Archale

Galyang*

1, 2, 3 Malunga, Jagatradevi

Pidikhola, pakwadi, 4, 5 Nibuwakharka

7 Pelakot

8 Tindobate

11 Tulsibhanjyang

Waling*

9 Waling* Changchangdi, Majhkot Siwalaye, Aladi, Malyangkot, agatbhanjyang, Kebarebhanjyang, Sworek, Sirsekot and Kalikakot

10 Tindobate

13 Pelakot

14 Thumpokhara

2 Palpa Rambha 1 Hungi Heklang, Phoksikot, Pipaldanda, Humin and Tahu

* refers to Municipality

Figure 2-2: PADs with Project Component

Source: Department of survey/GIS Analysis



Figure 2-3: PAA with Project Components

Source: Department of Survey/GIS Analysis

Figure 2-4: Project Affected Wards with Project Components

Source: Department of Survey/GIS Analysis



2.4 Project Accessibility The project site has vehicular access at present. The existing Siddhartha highway and the Kali

Gandaki ‘A’ HEP access road provides easy access to the project site. The nearest urban

centers are Syangja Bazar, Pokhara, Tansen Bazar and Butwal. The nearest all weather airport

facility is available at Pokhara and Bhairahawa. Direct daily air flights from Kathmandu are

available. Detail of the project accessibility is given in Table 2-3.

Table 2-3: Detail of the Project accessibility

S.N. Description Name of Highway Distance (km) Remarks

1. Kathmandu to Naubise Tribhuvan 24 -

2. Naubise to Pokhara Prithivi 174 -

3. Pokhara to Waling Siddhartha 64 Accessible to end of reservoir

4. Waling to Galyang Siddhartha 18 Along reservoir

5. Galyang to Zero km Siddhartha 4 Crossing of penstock

6. Zero km to Adhimuhan Kaligandaki Road 19.5 Accessible to intake location and dam site location

Source: Google Map

Figure 2-5: Accessibility Map of AKSHEP

Source: Department of survey and GIS Analysis



2.5 Project Components The scope of work comprises of preparing the general layout and design of various project

components based on the results of optimization study. Hydraulic design of the individual

structures has been made including the stability checks wherever applicable. The project

consists of headwork (Dam, Spillway, Intake, and Reservoir), headrace tunnel, surge shaft,

pressure tunnel (penstock), powerhouse, tailrace, switchyard, access road, transmission line

etc. The layout of project configuration is presented in figure 2.6

a. Reservoir

The project will required land of 891.105ha in reservoir area including buffer zone dam body

,where as the area of bufferzone is about 139.105 ha. The length of the reservoir is

approximately 21.7 km and its average width is approximately 0.4 km. With the minimum

operating level at EL 623 masl, the reservoir will have a maximum draw down of 77 m.

The dam will create a reservoir with a live storage of 341 million cubic meter. The total and

dead storage capacities of the reservoir are 401 and 60 million cubic meter respectively. Since

the sediment deposition starts from the very beginning of the reservoir, the live storage gets

depleted from the very beginning of project commissioning. The deposition reaches the intake

area only after a very longtime. Thus, the minimum operating level of the reservoir can be

lowered quite considerably once this settlement pattern is known. Based on the 50-year

sediment deposit estimation, the minimum operating level has been proposed at EL 623 masl

Andhikhola Storage HEP (180 MW) Project Description


Figure 2-6: Project Configuration



b. River Diversion

Andhikhola River has to be diverted completely from the dam construction area to facilitate

construction. For diversion of the river, two cofferdams one at upstream and another at

downstream along with diversion tunnel located at the left bank of the river has been provided.

Both upstream and downstream cofferdams will be the part of the main dam in (Rock fill Dam),

while in CFRD Dam the upstream coffer dam will be isolated approximately 450m upstream

from its toe.

• Diversion Flood

The selection of flood to be diverted during construction primarily depends upon the

construction schedule and the type of dam. For the present case of rockfill dam, it is essential

that the construction pit remains dry in initial phase and later the constructed portion of the dam

never gets overtopped. It is envisaged that the construction of the dam after diverting the river

will take around 4 years. It will take at least two years to sufficiently raise the dam so that any

significant flood has to pass from the diversion tunnel. Construction work may have to be

stopped completely during the rainy season but the river flow cannot be allowed in the

construction area or over the constructed portion. The general practice is to adopt a flood

having return period of 1 in 20 years as the diversion flood. The Kulekhani dam’s diversion

tunnel and coffer dam were designed to pass the 1 in 20 year flood. After careful judgment of

precedence and catchment area and characteristics, a diversion flood having a return period of

1 in 20 years has been selected for the present case having magnitude of 1,124 m3/s.

• Coffer Dam

The downstream coffer dam for Concrit Fase Rockfilled Dam (CFRD) Dam will be also a part of

main dam body as Rock fill dam but the upstream coffer dam will be little bit far from the

upstream toe of dam due to construction of concrete face foundation at toe. As per topography

the upstream coffer dam has been proposed approximately 450m upstream of main dam.

Similarly, the downstream cofferdams have been designed to form a part of the main dam. The

cofferdam is designed to accommodate the design discharge of 1,124 m3/s of return period of

20 years. The height of the coffer dam has been economically optimized simultaneously for the

practical diameter of the diversion tunnel, cost of the diversion tunnel and the cost of the coffer

dam. About 450m upstream from toe of CFRD Dam, a 56 m high cofferdam having crest level

at 612.0 masl and 6.0 m diameter circular shaped two diversion tunnels has been proposed.

The height of coffer dams has been determined to develop a pressurized flow in the diversion

tunnel with sufficient submergence at the diversion tunnel inlet. The length of upstream

cofferdam is about 182 m having crest width of 6 m. The upstream and downstream slope of

the cofferdam are 1:1.5 (V:H) and 1:1.5 (V:H) respectively. The upper stream cofferdam will

have asphalt concrete face with thickness of 0.4m. The purpose of the downstream dam is to

prevent the diverted water flowing back to the construction pit. The height of the downstream

cofferdam is generally determined on the basis of rating curve at that section.

• Diversion Tunnel

Two diversion tunnels have been designed with 1-in 20-year construction flood of 1124 m3/s to

facilitate the construction. The diversion tunnels have finished diameter of 8 m and circular

shaped cross-section have been proposed which will be able to pass the designed flood in

pressurized flow condition. The twin diversion tunnels, namely tunnel-1 and tunnel-2, have

been aligned along the left bank of the river and have lengths of about 1392 m and 1303 m

respectively. Owing to the high velocity of flow, the tunnel will be fully lined with concrete of 50

cm thick. The invert level at the inlet of the diversion tunnel has been provided at 558 masl,



which is about same elevation of the existing riverbed. The invert level at the outlet has been

provided at 548 masl.

At design flow, the velocity is about 11.2 m/s and two diversion tunnels are capable of diverting

1124 m3/s together. However, it has been noted that the design flood is of rare possibility and

may not even happen during the construction period. If the flood comes during construction, the

lining of the diversion tunnel may be damaged due to high velocity. It can be considered

tolerable and can be envisaged that damage would not be irreparable.

c. Dam

The Dam site is located at about 2.5 km upstream of confluence of AndhiKhola and Kaligandaki

River at downhill of Motichaur Village of Syangja District. The riverbed level of this location is

about 543 masl.

Concrete Face Rockfilled Dam (CFRD) has been proposed which envisaged to be an efficient

structure compared with the conventional rockfill dam. The CFRD will have an upstream and

downstream slope of both 1.6H: 1V and will have the height of 167 m for the crest elevation of

710 m. The upstream side will have 1 m thick concrete face while the inner portion will be

selected rockfill. The top width of the dam will be 10 m. Curtain grouting will be provided on the

toe portion of the dam.

d. Spillway

To protect the dam from over topping during the extreme flood condition, a gated spillway is

provided. The spillway is designed for probable maximum flood (PMF) of 4800 m3/s. An ogee

shaped crest type gated spillway with vertical upstream face and a chute with a flip bucket are

provided on the left bank of AndhiKhola on the upstream of the dam axis.

The weir crest level of spillway is kept at El. 685.00 masl and the total width of the spillway

including pier is 98 m. The spillway has four bays each of 10 m clear span and five piers each

of 5 m thickness. The spillway will be equipped with four radial gates each of 10m width and 15

m height. The remaining span of spillway section is kept as free flow spillway (30 m span plus 3

m wall).

The energy of the spillway will be dissipated in a plunge pool of water through a flip bucket

provided at the end of the chute spillway. Two meter thick reinforced concrete slab is provided

on bottom of rectangular chute with sufficient numbers of anchor bolt/dowels along with an

average 1.5 m thick side walls on two sides of spillway chute. Length of chute including flip

bucked is about 350 m.

e. Sloping Intake

Since Andhikhola Storage Hydroelectricity project is a seasonal storage project with 167m high

dam, sloping type intake is proposed which would be useful for a long period even after

sediment deposition. It is located on left bank of AndhiKhola. The intake is designed to draw a

design discharge of 73.0 m3/sec. The dimension of intake opening is selected in such a way

that during driest months when the reservoir level is down to the minimum operating level, MOL

of 623 masl, the velocity of flow through the trash rack does not exceed 0.75 m/sec to draw the

design discharge. A transition is designed at the contraction of waterway keeping the angle of

contraction about 15o. The invert level of intake tunnel at El. 611 masl is set to keep it safe from

the sediment deposit in the reservoir as well as to avoid air entrapment in the waterway when

water level in the reservoir is at minimum operation level. A trash rack and stop log

arrangement are provided at the intake opening to control the entry of floating debris as well as

the suspended particles into the intake. In order to check the flow of water into headrace tunnel

a stop log and two fix wheeled vertical slide gate arrangement are provided in the gate shaft.

The deck level of hoisting platform and the road is kept at El. 710 masl.



There are four intake openings each of 5 m width and 11 m effective height separated by

concrete pier of 1.50 m width. The piers have grooves along its length to slide the trash rack

and stop logs into the position. Discharge through sloping intake opening is conveyed to the

headrace tunnel of diameter 6.4 m through the transition zone of 109.1 m length (considering

15o flaring angle). A vertical gate shaft of internal dimension 7 m x 14 m (W x L) with stop log

and fixed wheeled vertical sliding gate arrangement is provided at the start of the headrace

tunnel. Two no. of air vent pipes has been provided at downstream side of gate shaft.

f. Headrace Tunnel

Headrace tunnel starts from gate shaft of the sloping intake and ends at the Surge shaft. Total

length of the headrace tunnel is about 3112 m. The size of the headrace tunnel is optimized

alone with the size of the Surge shaft. Apart from the basic assumptions, following assumptions

are made for the optimization of headrace tunnel.

• All tunnels are concrete lined.

• Maximum value of manning’s coefficient for concrete line is 0.014.

• Thickness of concrete lining is 50 cm.

A circular shaped 50 cm thick concrete lined pressure tunnel has been proposed as a

conveyance system from the headwork area to 46.8 m downstream of Surge shaft centre,

which includes 23.3m transition to valve chamber. The finished diameter of headrace tunnel is

6.4 m.

Based on the above assumptions, the optimum diameter of the headrace tunnel is estimated to

be 6.4 m. Due to the geotechnical conditions along the headrace tunnel and for the better

hydraulic condition, the headrace tunnel will be fully concrete lined. The thickness of the lining

is estimated to be 50 cm. The design velocity in the tunnel is 2.27 m/s. The excavated diameter

of the circular tunnel is 7.6m. The invert level of headrace tunnel at the starting point is 611.0

masl and that below the Surge shaft orifice is estimated to be 583.1 masl. The average slope in

the headrace tunnel is about 1:550 for first 2524.3 m length, the next 446.1m will have 3%

average slope and the rest length of 141.8m is horizontal including 50 m long rock trap.

g. Surge Shaft

The Surge shaft is placed as far downstream as possible in order to maximize the effectiveness

for controlling surge pressure in the high pressure section of tunnel. The location of the Surge

shaft has been determined to satisfy the following conditions:

• Cross section of the Surge shaft must be a practical diameter to facilitate construction.

• Adequate freeboard should be provided above and below the maximum upsurge and

minimum down surge level and also to suit the topography.

• Free board on Surge shaft is 2 meter.

• Orifice height is 3 meter.

Description of the Structure

Based on the results of the design criteria, restricted orifice surge shaft with 12 m internal

diameter has been provided at the end of the headrace tunnel, at a distance of about 3500 m

from the bulk head shaft of intake. The top elevation of the Surge shaft is at El. 736 masl. The

invert level of the Surge shaft is El. 593 masl. The orifice of Surge shaft has the depth of 5m

and diameter of 5 m. The maximum water level in the surge shaft is estimated to be El. 725

masl and the minimum water level estimated during maximum down surge is El. 627masl.

Maximum down surge level correspond to the full load acceptance from the third unit

immediately after the full load acceptance from the second unit. The total height of the surge



shaft is 148m and its internal diameter is 12m. The Surge shaft will have 1m thickreinforced

concrete lining.

h. Valve Chamber

Just after surge shaft, a horizontal transition of 14 m is provided where the steel liner starts and

diameter of conduit is reduced from 6.4 m to 4.6 m. After a horizontal stretch of 6 m, a valve

chamber is provided which has a size of 18 m x 8 m x 10 m. The valve will enable dewatering

of the penstock without emptying the headrace tunnel. The valve chamber will be accessible

through 86.0 m long D-shaped tunnel of size 6 m x 6 m which is connected with adit No. 2. The

chamber will have hoist and control unit for the operation of the valve. Air vent shall be provided

just after the valve which will be connected to the top of surge shaft.

i. Drop Shaft

The drop shaft starts from 30.9 m downstream of Valve Chamber. The length of drop shaft

including both bend is estimated to be 227.5 meter and has a diameter of 4.6 m. Entire drop

shaft is concrete lined with a thickness of 50 cm and steel liner of thickness varies from 35 mm

to 63 mm.

j. High pressure Steel Lined Tunnel (Penstock)

The design velocity in the tunnel is about 4.4 m/s for a diameter of 4.6 m. The excavated

diameter of circular tunnel is 6 m including 15 cm shotcrete and 50 cm concrete. The steel liner

has a thickness of 63 mm. Adit 3 located downstream of manifold provides access to the

pressure tunnel. The steel lined tunnel will be trifurcated to feed the three turbines. The

diameter of penstock after trifurcation will be 2 meter. The length of steel line pressure tunnel is

about 1535.9m and the total length of trifurcation is about 113.1m.

k. Powerhouse

The proposed semi-surface powerhouse is located at about 12 km downstream of Kaligandaki

‘A’ Powerhouse site, on the left bank of Kaligandaki River. This location is very near to Chharti.

The bedrocks comprises of slatty phylite. The powerhouse accommodates three turbine

generators units each with a capacity of 60 MW and ancillary facilities for control and

protection.

The three vertical shaft Francis turbine/generator units, spaced at 18 meters centre to centre,

associated electrical and mechanical equipment, a service bay and a control room. The

erection bay lies two floor (8 m) above the Machine hall floor and is connected with access

road. The trifurcated penstock feed the discharge into the turbines through butterfly valves on

the north side of powerhouse. The three draft tubes discharge into individual draft tube and

ultimately to single tailrace channel. The tailrace channel discharges through an outlet structure

to the Kali Gandaki River. The powerhouse has a size of 78.8 m x 17.5 m x 40 m (L x B x H).

The main levels of the powerhouse are as follows:

• Machine hall floor 378.65 masl

• Generator Floor 375.15 masl

• Turbine Floor 370.30 masl

• Drainage Gallery Floor 361.80 masl

l. Tailrace Tunnel

The tailrace conduit starts from the draft tube gate at elevation 361.8 masl and opens up at the

tailrace channel at elevation 366.4masl. Three individual tailrace conduits of 23.7 m length each

lead to a transition channel of 41.8 m length. The transition channel is open channel which lead



to a main channel of 26 m after which a three tailrace gates are installed. Thus the length of

combined open tailrace channel gate is 72 m. The tailrace will be of reinforced concrete open

channel type. Three vertical gates of 5.6 m x 3.5 m will discharge water into Kaligandaki River.

These outlets are installed on top of concrete overflow weir. The tail water level is 371.4 m.

m. Construction Adits

Construction adits are provided at different location in order to facilitate the tunnelling and help

in optimizing the construction. A total of three construction adits of varying lengths are deemed

necessary for the underground works.

Two out of three construction adit are provided for the construction of headrace tunnel. Adit No.

1 (272 m long) will be provided downstream of the bulkhead shaft of intake. This will facilitate

the independent access to headrace tunnel during construction period. This adit will be used for

the construction of the upstream part of the headrace tunnel. Similarly, Adit No. 2 (343 m long)

will be provided upstream of Surge shaft. This adit will be used for the construction of

downstream part of headrace tunnel, Surge shaft and vertical drop shaft. Additional access to

valve chamber from adit 2 shall be provided with a tunnel of 90 m length and size 6 m x 6 m.

Adit No. 3 (180 m long) will be provided to access the manifold from the tailrace outlet area.

This adit shall be used for construction of horizontal pressure tunnel and drop shaft. These

adits are ‘D’ shaped in cross-section and are 6 m in diameter. All adit tunnels will be plugged by

the concrete at the end of the construction period.

n. Access Road

The existing Siddhartha highway and the Kali Gandaki ‘A’ HEP access road provides easy

access to the project site. Beside these, about 7.545 km access road should be constructed to

make all the project components accessible. Out of 7.545 km, 1.4 km to the dam site, 2.213 km

to the intake site, 0.57 km to the surge shaft site, 2.532 km to the powerhouse site and 0.83 km

need to be constructed. The detail technical features of access road is as follows:

• Total length of access road to be construct = 7.545 km

• Carriageway width of road = 5.5 m

• Camber= 3-4%

• Maximum gradient= 12%

• Minimum horizontal curve radius= 12m

• Minimum vertical curve radius= 300m

• Design speed= 30 kmph

• Provision of extra widening as per requirements

o. Transmission Line

The generated energy from Andhikhola Storage HEP Powerhouse will be evacuated to the

INPS through 8.5 km long 220 kV double circuit transmission line at tower no. AP-47 of Kusma-

New Butwal Transmission line of Kali Gandaki Transmission Corridor nearby KG-A powerhouse

at Beltari.

p. Project Facilities

1. Labor Camp site

The project will construct and provide housing facilities for is employee and contractor

workforce. The location of such site is shown in topo map in figure 2-6. At headwork, the

area in Motichour at right bank of Andhikhola and at powerhouse site, an area at upstream

of proposed powerhouse site as shown in topo map will be used.



2. Quarries and Barrow Area

The project requires the construction material like stone, aggregate, and sand. These material

will be obtained from nearby available quarry sites. The project has made a quantity survey in

order to find out best possible borrow area. For the construction of dam, rock will be utilized

from rock outcrop at Motichour and tunnel muck. For borrowing sand, river floor on either side

of Andhikhola at Shera, Illunga, Tallo-Galyang and Manke Khola has beed identified. Similarly,

the borrow area for powerhouse has been identified at opposite side of proposed powerhouse

at right bank of Kaligandaki River at Asardi as shown in figure 2-6. Total eight numbers of

borrow areas were investigated and identified in between Ilunga to Tallo Galyangbazar. The

estimated approximate quantity of granular material is 244800 m3, cohesive material is

1730000 m3 and mixed reserve quantity of granular/fines/cohesive material is 940750 m3. The

name of borrow area/test pit and coordinate are presented in table 2-4.

Table 2-4: Location of Borrow and Test Pit

Test Pit No. Easting Northing Location

TP – 1 00462561 03092614 Galyang – 2, Bayabagar

TP – 2 00462997 03092414 Galyang – 2, Illunga – Pallophant

TP - 3 00463321 03092426 Galyang - 2, Illunga - Wallophant

TP - 4 00463696 03092339 Galyang - 4, Shera

TP - 5 00468008 03091821 Galyang - 7, Tallogalyang - Phant

TP - 6 00467796 03092188 Galyang - 7, Tallogalyang - Mankekhola

TP - 7 00468233 03091751 Galyang - 7, Tallogalyang - Phant

TP - 8 00468375 03092052 Galyang - 7, Tallogalyang

Source: Feasibiliry study report of AKSHEP

3. Muck/spoil disposal Stock pilling Area

Muck and spoil disposal will be carried out in designated site. Total volume of muck generated

from different component of project is estimated to be about 5.24 MCM. Assuming 25% bulking

factor the total muck generated will be in the range of 6.55 million meter cube. About 3.42

million meter cube of muck will be used in construction of dam and about 3.13 million meter

cube of muck will be manage in different locations. Three different locations have been

identified in the project area to accommodate exceed material. Location of muck disposal and

stockpiling area is given in Table 2.5

4. Bunker and Explosive

The project required the explosive during construction of underground work. Storage and

handling of explosive is risky and needs high-level attention and involvement of security

agencies. The explosive procurement, transportation, storage and use is strictly controlled by

the provisions of the Explosive Act in Nepal. Similarly, Explosive will be procure transported,

stores and used as per the prevailing act provisions in close coordination and consultation with

the concern stakeholder particularly Military and Police Force of Nepal. An explosive bunker

house will be constructed at the project site with facilities for the security personnel in

coordination and consultation with the concerned security personnel of the Government of

Nepal. For such operation army camp with bunker houses is proposed nearby the intake site.

About 2000 ton of Ammonium nitrate is expected to be required as explosive. The total area

allocated for army camp with bunker house is about 2 ha and this area lies within reservoir

boundary during construction period. The camp will be demolish after the completion of project.

The location of Army camp and Bunker is shown in figure 2-6.



5. Construction Equipment and Method of Excavation

Excavation of rock or soil is an important aspect of civil engineering project. Methods of

excavation can be selected according to their purpose that is whether the excavation is for

foundations, slopes, or underground. In broad sense, digging for open foundation and blasting

for underground tunneling methods are common in practice for excavation purpose.

Various mechanical equipment and machines will be used during construction period of project.

The key construction equipment used during the project construction period are Excavator,

Dumper, Jack Hammer, shotcrete Machine, Compressor, Loader, Bull dozer, Crawer Drill,

Batching Plant, Water sprinker, Grout Pump, Dewatering Pump, Aggregate Crushing Plant,

Hydraulic Excavator, Roller, vibarator etc.

6. Crusher Plant and Batching Plant

Project required batching plant and crusher plant to ease the construction activities during

construction period. Provision for batching plants have been made near to the proposed dam

site and right bank of Kaligandaki river opposite to the powerhouse site. As far as possible the

crushing plant and batching plant will be located near the quarry sites. At dam site the location

of batching plant lies within the reservoir boundary area, hence, additional acquisition of land is

not required. Batching plant, which is located opposite to the powerhouse site at right bank of

Kaligandaki, required temporary acquisition of land during construction period. Refer attached

figure 2-6 for proposed location of Crusher plant and Batching plant.

Table 2-5: Location of Major Project components and Facilities

S.N. Components Location Coordinate

Easting Northing

1 Main Dam Motichaur 461515.21 3094338.92

2 Coffer Dam Motichaur 461681.50 3093811.30

3 Diversion Tunnel

i Diversion I (Inlet) Motichaur 461561.17 3093677.01

ii Diversion II (Inlet) Motichaur 461593.01 3093719.21

4 Spillway (Inlet) Motichaur 461402.92 3094011.91

5 Reservoir Motichaur to waling 461880.8400 3093421.9930

6 Intake Illunga 463962.03 3091819.91

7 Headrace Tunnel Illunga 463974.12 3091668.81

8 Surge Shaft Zero Kilo 466766.79 3090673.50

9 Vertical Shaft Barandad to

Chharti 466833.99 3090605.22

10 Penstock Chharti 466906.12 3090531.99

11 Adits

Adit I Illunga 464035.569 3091848.279

Adit II Zero Kilo 466779.95 3090386.48

Adit III Chharti 467889.01 3089697.34

12 Powerhouse Chharti 467750.03 3089638.07

13 Switchyard Chharti 467600.00 3089600.00

14 Tailrace Chharti 467866.07 3089669.53

15 Permanent Camp (Employer + Engineer) with office building and parking area

Chharti 468271.39 3090158.21

16 Labour Camp and Contractor Camp

Motichour 462019.32 3093764.85

17 Quarry Sites (Aggregate + Sand), Batching Plant, Crusher Plant

Asardi 467534.91 3088832.22

18 Quarry Sites (Stone), Batching plant and Crusher Plant

Motichour 461855.53 3094203.65



2.6 Construction Planning The overall project implementation schedule consist three phase. The first phase is preparation

work which includes EIA and approval, selection and mobilization of contractor, clearance from

forest authority for tree felling, land acquisition, land preparation and establishment of support

facilities. Second phase is the construction phase, which include civil, hydro-mechanical and

electromechanical works and third phase is operation phase. The construction activities include

construction of all project components mentioned in section 2.5. The key activities of project on

different phase has been summarize as follows.

Table 2-6: Key Activities of Project

Phase of

Project

Project Activities Details

Pre-

construction

phase

Land acquisition and

resettlement

Land acquisition and resettlement process is given first

priority before construction period starts

Land clearance Clearance of the project components structure with

vegetation clearance and labeling of the area

Support Facilities Included access road, camp facilities, construction of power

supply, establishment of construction support facilities etc.

Construction

Phase

Civil Works

Includes the construction of project components

a) Headwork: Dam, Intake, Spillway and all necessary

diversion and protection works

b) Water conveyance system including Tunnel, penstock

pipe and tailrace system

c) Power station: underground powerhouses.

Metal Works

Include supply, delivery and erection of metal works such

as penstock pipes, expansion joints, gates, channels and

fittings, etc.

Stockpiling, Muck and

spoil disposal works

Amount of muck, spoil and other accumulated disposal

materials will be disposed in specific area. The specific area

has been identified and the plan have been made to

dispose the excessive volume of muck and spoil during the

construction. These activities include the disposal and

rehabilitation of the disposed area

Hydro-Mechanical and

Electro-mechanical

works

a) Hydro-mechanical works include the supply, delivery and

erection of mechanical equipment, turbine, valve and

fittings.

b) Electromechanical Works includes the supply, delivery

and erection of electro-mechanical equipment, like

generator, transformer, Switch gear etc.

Reservoir Filling After the erection, installation and fittings of equipment,

testing and commissioning is done with filling of reservoir.

Post

Construction

phase

Dismantling of construction support facilities (Temporary Structures)

Rehabilitation of the area occupied by the construction support facilities.

Operation

and

Maintenance

Phase

Operation of powerhouse

Maintenance of project components.

2.6.1 Land Acquisition and Forest Clearance

The land acquisition and forest clearance is prior work before construction phase. The project

shall acquire lands for reservoir area, muck disposal site, surge tank area, staff quarter site,



labor camp, stock piling/storage, etc. The land use required for reservoir area is presented in

Table 2.6.

Majority of the lands are private barren (Kharbari) and cultivate land. The details of the land

ownership and the total land use for different purposed are calculated in Table 2.6. The land

required for reservoir area, powerhouse, permanent camp area, surge and permanent access

road will be permanently acquired, which. is also presented in Table 2.6. The land required for

muck disposal and stockpiling will be temporarily used on rent. Obviously, this land will be

returned to the respective landowners after completion of the proposed project.



Table 2-7: Land Requirement for AKSHEP

S. N Project

Component

Land Types (ha) Land Required (ha)

Remarks Forest Cultivated Barren Built up Area River and Flood Plain**

Temporary Permanent Total Govt. CF Govt. Private Govt. Private* Public Private

1 Reservoir Area 1.244 10.725 244.106 412.903 60.658 161.469 891.105 891.105

2 Power House 3.689 0.055 0.601 4.345 4.345

3 Intake 2.950 2.95 2.95

4 Surge Shaft 0.067 0.067 0.067

5 Camp and Staff Quarter Site

4.379 0.873 5.252 5.252

6 Switchyard 3.730 3.73 3.73

7 Access Road 2.107 2.003 2.842 1.400 5.552 6.952

8 Quarry Site and Crusher Plant

21.033 18.980 5.957 45.970

45.970

9 Adit Tunnel Portal 0.250 0.250 0.250

10 Muck Disposal Area and Stockpiling Area

i. Near Intake site 1.400 1.400 1.400

ii. Near Adit 2 portal 3.800 3.800 3.800

Sub Total 7.040 10.725 276.706 442.665 60.658 168.027 52.820 913.001

Total 17.765 276.706 442.665 60.658 168.027 965.821

Percentage, % 1.839 28.650 45.833 6.280 17.397

Note:

* Kharbari lies within the reservoir area is considered as private barren land.

** River and flood plain land belong to government land according to "Malpot Act 2034".



2.6.2 Construction Materials

The materials required for civil construction works related to the project component includes

Steel reinforcement, cement, coarse aggregate, Fine aggregates (sand), admixtures,

explosives, detonators, anchors/bolts, impervious materials (clay), steel ribs, toxic chemicals,

etc. The details of the material are as follows.

Table 2-8: Details of Construction Materials with Estimated Quantities

S.N Description of work Unit Quantity

1 Civil Works

A Cement Cum 152,480.36

B Sand Cum 236,507.94

C Coarse Aggregate Cum 441,866.30

D Reinforcement ton 27,208.79

E Bituminous (Concrete) cu.m. 9,504.89

F Small Rock Transition cu.m. 13,265.92

G Rockfill(Ømax 30 cm) cu.m. 26,531.83

H Rockfill(Ømax60cm) cu.m. 5,981,118.76

I Rockfill(Ømax 80 cm) cu.m. 2,004,327.22

J Rockfill(Ømax 120 cm) Cum 1,485,549.19

K Weathered Rock, Highly fine content(10%) Cum 527,883.00

L Curtain Depth 30 m m 1,532.60

M Rock Bolt (25 mm dia, 3m long@2m c/c) no 67,434.00

N Anchors & Dowels no 9,384.00

O Formwork Sqm 96,386.40

P ISMB Ton 201.46

Q Rock soling Cum 1,835.72

R Eplosives (Ammonium Nitrate) Ton 2000

2 Hydro- Mechanical Works

A Radial-Spillway gate (4) ton 507.08

B Trashrack-intake (4) ton 516.94

C Intake gate (2) ton 251.44

D Draft tube gate (3) ton 56.07

E Stoplog-spillway gate (1) ton 94.94

F Stoplog-intake gate (1) ton 18.47

G Stoplog-draft tube (1) ton 13.38

H Penstock pipe (1519 m) ton 10,791.20

I Trifurcation penstock steel lining ton 441.60

J Butterfly valve for valve chamber LS 3

3 Electro- Mechanical Works

A Turbine-Generator Units

A1 Turbine

Verticle Francis turbine, HLA542-LJ-253,72180kW, runner diameter 253cm 428.6rpm, 310m, 26.67m3/s, ηT=93.5%.

Nos. 3

A2 Governor

WT-100, digital PID function, with pressure oil device Nos. 3



A3 Generator

Verticle synchronous generator, SF60-14/4800, 60 MW, 50Hz, 11kV, 0.85p.f.lag, 428.6rpm, class “F” insulation with temperature rise limited to class “B”

Nos. 3

A4 Excitation system

KL-56, Digital excitation device with digital AVR and 800 kVA dry type auxiliary transformer Set 3

A5 Buterfly valve with diameter 300cm, and hydraulic device Set 3

A6 Hydraulic device: HYZ-1.6-6.3 Set 3

A7 RTD and breaking cubicle Set 3

A8 Valve control PLC Set 3

A9 Expansion joint Set 3

A10 Automatic element Set 3

B Electrical equipment (11 kV)

B1 11kV cubical for breaker Set 3

B2 11KV cubical for potential transformer and fuse Set 3

B3 Cubicle for disconnector Nos. 3

B4 Cubicle for exciter transformer Set 3

B5 15 kV power cable m

B6 220V D.C. system-Battery, Battery charger and D.C. distribution board Set 1

B7 Service power transformer S9-630/11/0.4KV Set 2

B8 Control cables m

B9 13.8 kV current transformer L.S. 1

B10 Electric distribution cubical for lighting Set 1

B11 Electric distribution cubical for service power Set 1

C Electrical equipment (0.4kV)

C1 Auxiliary transformer leading in cubical Lot 1

C2 Local power leading in cubical Lot 1

C3 Disel generator 350kVA Set 1

D Automation protection and control systems

D1 Unit control and protection panel Nos. 2

Micro-processor type control and protection device,

D2 Central computer systems and SCADA software, UPS and public control systems Set 1

D3 Digital water level measurement Set 1

D4 Station transformer, service power transformer and line control and protection devices Set 2

D5 Auxiliary equipment controlling systems Set 1

D6 Energy measurement systems (kWh, kVar, etc) Set 2

E 220kV Transformer and switchgear

E1 Transformer S9-70588-154±2×2.5%-220/11kV; Set 3

E2 220kV potential transformer Set 12

E3 220kV Disconnector Set 8

E4 220kV circuit breaker Set 3

E5 220kV current transformer Set 12



E6 220kV lightning arrestor Set 3

E7 220kV switchyard stell structure Lot 1

E8 220kV switchyard civil work Lot 1

F Powerhouse Crane 125/10ton Set 1

G Cooling water and oil lubrication systems Lot 1

H Equipment Installation Surpervision and Commissioning Lot

I Equipment Installation Erection and Commissioning Lot 1

J Transportation and insurance Lot

4 220 kV Transmission Line & Substation

220 kV double circuit Transmission line with Bison conductor km 8.5

Source: AKSHEP Project Office, 2019

2.6.3 Requirement of Workforce

A large number of workers will be required during the construction phase of the project. The

total workforce including skilled, semi-skilled and unskilled labor during construction period is

estimated to average of 1200 including 50% unskilled, 35% semi-skilled and 15% skilled. The

project has adopted a policy of local employment in the construction jobs. The first priority of

employment opportunities will be given to the affected households of the project affected areas.

2.6.4 Construction Power

Regarding to the construction power, 11 kV substation is proposed near powerhouse, which is

energized from 1km long 11 kV line from tapping point. For the dam site, construction power is

available from proposed 1.6 km long 11 kV line from tapping point. Diesel generator sets are

proposed as backup power to keep aside for emergency use so that the construction works at

the project site will not be affected. The capacity of diesel generator at headwork site, Intake

site, and surge shaft and powerhouse site will be 300 kVA, 150 kVA, 100 kVA and 300 kVA

respectively.

2.6.5 Project Cost

Based on the preliminary design of project components, the cost estimation of project has been

prepared. Total estimated project cost is USD 498.496 Million (Nepalese Rupees 56 Billions).

The project cost might increases due to price escalation in material and other types of costs

that directly and indirectly influence the project construction.

2.7 Reservoir Simulation Reservoir simulation and the estimation of installed capacity as well as the estimation of energy

generation from the project are based on the storage elevation curve of the reservoir area,

minimum operating level based on the dead storage, full supply level, monthly flow of the river,

evaporation, seepage, environmental release and the operation rule of the reservoir.

2.7.1 Base Data for Simulation

Mean monthly inflow and the evaporation from the reservoir surface for different months of the

year used for the simulation are presented in the Table 2.8. Similarly, the Storage-Area-

Elevation Curve is presented in Figure 2.6.



Table 2-8: Mean Monthly Inflow and Evaporation

Month No. of Days

Average Inflow (cumecs)

Evaporation per month (mm/sq.km)

January 31 4.67 2.09

February 28 3.90 3.09

March 31 3.19 4.48

April 30 3.12 5.42

May 31 7.06 5.53

June 30 34.46 5.88

July 31 111.87 5.39

August 31 97.04 5.31

September 30 74.16 4.65

October 31 29.28 3.71

November 30 9.99 2.70

December 31 6.11 2.13

Source: Feasibility Study Report AKSHEP, 2019

Figure 2-7: Storage-Area-Elevation Curve of the Reservoir

Source: Feasibility Study of AKSHEP

The basic assumptions for the reservoir simulations are as follows:

• The dead storage water level is based on the incoming volume of the sediment

uniformly spread over the reservoir taking a flat horizontal form

• The calculation would start on November 1, when the reservoir is assumed to be full

• The reservoir would attain minimum operating level at the end of dry season if required

and continue to operate at minimum level for some duration at the beginning of the wet

season in order to flush the sediment from live storage area to dead storage area

• Filling of the reservoir would start at the late stage of wet season ensuring that the

reservoir will be full by November 1

• Seepage loss is assumed to be compensated by the minimum downstream release.

Hence, the seepage loss is taken as zero for this simulation

• Dry season energy would be the energy generated from the months November to April

• Wet season energy would be the energy generated from the months May to October



• Maximum water level in the reservoir is 700 masl whereas the minimum operating level

is 623 masl.

• Turbine setting level is 369.3 masl.

• Vertical axis Francis Turbine with overall efficiency of 86.01% will be used to generate

power.

• Downstream release is 10% of the minimum monthly average inflow available.

• Table 2-9: Summary of Reservoir Simulation

Month

Energy Generation (GWh)

Average Power (MW)

Reservoir Level at Power Flow (m3/s)

Peak Off Peak Beginning End Max Min

November 0.000 18.900 180.00 700 699.9 66.59 66.57

December 46.035 0.000 180.00 699.9 692.71 68.14 66.59

January 46.035 0.000 180.00 692.71 684.69 70.02 68.19

February 41.580 0.000 180.00 684.69 675.85 72.2 70.08

March 46.035 0.000 180.00 675.85 663.36 75.6 72.3

April 44.544 0.000 179.73 663.36 647.07 80.3 75.72

May 44.002 5.334 171.40 647.07 623.61 80.3 80.3

June 0.000 49.011 163.37 623.61 624.19 80.3 80.3

July 0.000 98.197 171.79 624.19 666.01 80.3 75.26

August 0.000 100.44 180.00 666.01 686.88 74.99 69.7

September 0.000 81.000 180.00 686.88 699.13 69.56 66.85

October 0.000 53.010 180.00 699.13 700 66.76 66.57

Total 268.231 405.892

• Source: Feasibility Study Report of AKSHEP, 2019

2.8 Power and Energy Production The project will generate 676.29 GWh total annual energy. The wet energy and dry energy that

could be generated from the plant is 405.77 GWh and 270.53 GWh respectively. The energy

generate from November to Aprils considered as dry season energy and energy generated

from the months May to October is considered as wet energy. The project will generate power

throughout the year. The table 2-10 present the monthly reservoir operation hour per day.

Table 2-10: Reservoir Operation Hours

S. N. Months Hours per day

1 January 8.25

2 February 8.25

3 March 8.25

4 April 8.25

5 May 8.25

6 June 10

7 July 18

8 August 18

9 September 15

10 October 9.5

11 November 3.5

12 December 8.25

Source: Feasibility Study Report of AKSHEP, 2019

2.9 Project Schedule The estimated completion period of the project is about 82 months, which includes 20 months

preliminary work phase. The tentative work schedule has been presented in Table 2-11 below.



Table 2-9: Energy and Water Balance Table

Reservoir Simulation

Design Discharge = 73 m3/s

D/S Release = 0.31 m3/s

Min. Hour of Operation = 8.3 Hr

MOL Volume = 59.68 MCM

FSL Volume = 401.10 MCM

MOL = 623.00 masl

FSL = 700 masl

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(m3/s) MCM MCM Hr Hr MCM MCM MCM MCM MCM masl masl m MW GWh GWh GWh

GWh

GWh

Jan 31 4.7 12.5 11.7 1.4 8.3 11.7 -55.5 290.6 235.1 0.0 683.1 672.7 302.7 188.6 48.2 48.2 35.1 13.2

Feb 28 3.9 9.4 8.7 1.2 8.3 8.7 -52.0 235.1 183.1 0.0 672.7 662.1 292.3 182.1 46.6 46.6 30.6 16.0

Mar 31 3.2 8.6 7.7 0.9 8.3 7.7 -59.5 183.1 123.6 0.0 662.1 646.3 281.7 175.5 44.9 44.9 32.6 12.2

Apr 30 3.1 8.1 7.3 0.9 8.3 7.3 -57.8 123.6 65.8 0.0 646.3 625.5 265.9 165.6 42.4 42.4 29.8 12.5

May 31 7.1 19.0 18.2 2.2 8.3 18.2 -49.0 65.8 59.7 0.0 625.5 623.0 245.1 152.7 39.1 39.1 28.4 10.7

Jun 30 34.5 89.4 88.6 11.2 11.2 88.6 0.0 59.7 59.7 0.0 623.0 623.0 242.6 151.1 51.0 51.0 27.2 23.8

Jul 31 111.9 299.7 298.9 36.7 16.0 195.5 168.5 59.7 228.2 0.0 623.0 671.3 242.6 151.1 75.0 75.0 28.1 46.9

Aug 31 97.0 259.8 259.0 31.8 18.0 195.5 112.3 228.2 340.5 0.0 671.3 690.7 290.9 181.3 101.1 101.1 33.7 67.4

Sep 30 74.2 192.3 191.5 24.3 19.0 189.2 41.7 340.5 382.3 0.0 690.7 697.1 310.3 193.3 110.2 110.2 34.8 75.4

Oct 31 29.3 78.5 77.6 9.5 9.5 77.6 0.0 382.3 382.3 0.0 697.1 697.1 316.7 197.3 58.3 58.3 36.7 21.6

Nov 30 10.0 25.9 25.1 3.2 8.3 25.1 -39.9 382.3 342.3 0.0 697.1 691.0 316.7 197.3 48.8 48.8 35.5 13.3

Dec 31 6.1 16.3 15.5 1.9 8.3 15.5 -51.7 342.3 290.6 0.0 691.0 683.1 310.6 193.5 49.5 49.5 36.0 13.5


Installed Capacity = 180.00 MW

Total Energy = 676.29 GWh

Dry Season Energy = 270.53 GWh

Wet Season Energy = 405.77 GWh

Dry Energy Ratio = 0.40

Peak Energy = 396.45 GWh

Off Peak Energy = 279.84 GWh



Table 2-11: Construction Schedule

Andhikhola Storage HEP (180MW) Study Methodology


3 STUDY METHODOLOGY

For the preparation of EIA report, different methods and methodologies were adopted. The

EPR, 2054 and National EIA Guidelines, 2050, mainly guided the methodology. Terms and

conditions received from the then MoFSC were followed during EIA. Literature review, Public

consultation, walkthrough survey, scoping meetings, Geographic Information System (GIS)

analysis were some important tools used for data collection. The different methodologies

adopted for carrying out EIA are discussed in the following sub-sections;

3.1 Desk Study Prior to the mobilization to the project area, desk study of the proposed project was carried out

by reviewing technical feasibility report and survey report of the proposed project prepared by

NEA-PDD. The desk study consisted of review of relevant literature and Legislation.

3.1.1 Literature Review

Pertinent information from different sources was collected and reviewed Literatures collected

and reviewed during the EIA are as listed in bibliography of the report. Mainly the feasibility

report of AKSHEP was reviewed before site mobilization.

3.1.1.1 Physical Environment

The topographic maps published by Department of Survey/GoN were reviewed before site

mobilization (Table 3-1). The project layout was drawn in the map and carried/referred during

the whole site study. These maps were used to figure out inundation area, inundated

HHs/lands/settlement simultaneously using Hand GPS Receivers. Topographical and land use

maps of the area including the Google Earth image were studied for verification.

Data on temperature and precipitation are taken from Department of Hydrology and

Meteorology (DHM). The details of meteorological stations are given in Table 3-2. Information on

geology was derived from the updated feasibility report of AKSHEP. Review of topographical

map and land use map was done to identify the land use patterns of the area. The details of

different topographical maps used during the study period are given in following Table 3-1.

Table 3-1: Detail of Topographic Maps of Project Area

SN Name of Topographic Sheet Sheet No. Scale Year of

Publication

1 Birgha-Archale 2783 03A 1:25000 1998

2 Galyang Bajar 2783 03B 1:25000 1998

3 Ridi 2783 02B 1:25000 1999

4 Waling 2783 04A 1:25000 1998

Table 3-2: Detail of Meteorological Stations

Station Name

Index No

District Type of Station

Lat. (deg.min)

Long. (deg.min)

Elevation (meter)

Remarks

Waling 826 Syangja Precipitation 27.59 83.46 750

Syangja 805 Syangja Climatology 28.06 83.53 868

Tansen 702 Palpa Climatology 27.52 83.28 1067

Garakot 726 Palpa Precipitation 27.52 83.48 500

Source: DHM



3.1.1.2 Biological Environment

Publications of Division Forest Office (DFO) of Syangja and Palpa districts were reviewed to

collect general information of forest area, types and management. Information on biodiversity of

project impact area was collected from the field visit and FGD. Different literature on birds and

mammals, as listed in Bibliography, were reviewed.

3.1.1.3 Socio-economic and Cultural Environment

The major reports and publications consulted include District profiles of Syangja and Palpa

published by the District Development Committees; National Population and Housing Census

(2011) published by Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS). Socio-economic and cultural data, such

as population of project affected districts (PADs) and Municipality and RMs, households’ size,

male-female ratio, infrastructures, ethnicity, religion, etc. were derived from CBS publications.

3.1.2 Legislation Review

During the Scoping Phase, related legislations and policies were reviewed. Environment

Protection Act, 2053 (1997); Water Resources Act, 2049 (1992); Electricity Act, 2049 (1992);

National Park and Wildlife Conservation Act, 2029 (1973), EPR, 2054 (1997); Electricity Rules,

2050 (1993); Forest Regulation, 2051 (1995), Water Resources Rules, 2050 (1993) and

Hydropower Development Policy, 2058 (2001) are some major legislation reviewed.

3.2 Delineation of Project Impact Area Rule 4 of EPR, 2054 (1997) apparently defines project impact area as administrative

geographical boundaries such as district and Village Development Committee (VDC), currently

RM/Municipality, where the project is proposed for development. A district is a larger

administrative unit comprising of a number of local administrative units called RMs and

Municipalities. Based on the magnitude of the predicted impacts, the project impact area is

divided into following two categories.

3.2.1 Project Affected District

The district where the project is being implemented or which is directly affected by the project

construction activities is termed as PAD. As per the definition, Syangja and Palpa are the PADs

for the proposed AKSHEP. However, the envisaged environmental impacts within the

geographical jurisdiction vary greatly as some geographical area receive higher impact, some

lower while other areas get no impact at all.

3.2.2 Project Affected Municipality/RM

Project Affected Municipality/RM is the Municipality/RM, where the project is going to be

developed. For the proposed AKSHEP, Waling and Galyang are the project affected

Municipality, whereas Kaligandaki and Rambha are the project affected RMs respectively. In

general, these administrative units are referred as the PAA in the report. The PAA is further

divided into following two types;

3.2.2.1 Direct Impact Area (DIA)

The National EIA Guidelines, 1993 defines the direct impact as a direct alteration in the exiting

environmental conditions as consequences of project activities. These are the core areas

where construction and operation activities are carried out and will be impacted directly by the

project. In this area, environmental components shall be directly affected by the project

footprints. DIA encompasses the locations that will hold major project components like

headwork, reservoir area, conveyance systems, powerhouse, quarry sites, muck disposal sites,

dewatered zone and project access roads. Thus, the settlement area, forests or other

vegetation and places having built-up infrastructures or facilities that fall within the core area



constitute the DIA of the project. Based on spatial coverage, this area is also termed as High

Impact Area.

Headworks Area: Headwork comprises of concrete face rock filled dam, spillway provision,

intake, campsite, muck disposal site, quarry site, etc. the area occupied by all the above-

mentioned features of headwork is considered as DIA.

Reservoir Area: Due to obstruction created by dam, inundated area behind it is 21.7 km

upstream. The area occupied by reservoir and dam with consideration of safety factor is about

891.105 ha and it is considered as DIA.

Water Conveyance System: It consists of underground components such as headrace tunnel,

penstock, vertical shaft and penstock, etc. The DIA depends on the overburden height and type

of rock above it. Preliminarily, it has been considered as 150 m of buffer area from centerline of

the component on each side as DIA of the system.

Surge Shaft Area: Restricted orifice open type surge shaft with 12 m internal diameter has

been proposed. The outer diameter of shaft plus slope cutting distance, leveling and finishing of

open area is considered as DIA.

Powerhouse Area: Semi-surface powerhouse area plus buffer distance of 150 m on all side is

considered as DIA.

Dewatered Zone: The stretch of the Andhikhola extending from the Dam site up to its

confluence with the Kaligandaki River, which will be affected due to reduced flow (dewatered

zone), is considered as DIA.

Water Augmented Zone: The stretch of the Kaligandaki River extending from the powerhouse

site up to its confluence with the Saptagandaki River which will be affected due to increase in

flow (augmented flow zone) is regarded as DIA.

Access Road: About 7.545 km of access road is proposed by the project. DIA of road depends

on the topography, slope cutting and its width. Preliminarily, 10m width for whole stretch of road

as per topography of the area is considered as DIA.

Tailrace Site: The tailrace tunnel starts from the outlet gate of powerhouse. Length of the

tailrace is 72m. DIA is considered as buffer area of 150 m on both side from the centerline of

tailrace.

Other: The supplementary features such as quarry site, muck disposal site, bunker area, camp

area and stock piling area near tailrace also affect the occupied land. The area occupied by it is

considered as DIA.

3.2.2.2 Indirect Impact Area (IIA)

These areas lie outside the DIA and receive impact indirectly by the induced and allied activities

of the project. The geographical areas outside the DIA up to the boundary of the

RM/Municipality are termed as Indirectly Impacted Area (IIA) of the project. It is expected that

activities of project construction and workers, increased supply of the goods and services may

further affect the surrounding villages of DIA. This area is also termed as Moderate Impact

Area.The term “project” indicates the AKSHEP and “Area” refers to the DIA and IIA. The term

“project area” is also referred to as the study area for the Scoping/EIA.

3.2.3 Identification of Project Affected Families

Families residing in the core project area or surrounding area whose land, house/shed,

property, access to assets, and income sources or means of livelihood may be affected due to



project construction or operation are considered as ‘Project Affected Families’ (PAF) and the

members of these families are referred to as ‘Project Affected Persons’. These are further

categorized as:

3.2.3.1 Project Affected Families (PAFs)

The households losing up to 10% of their total land are categorized under this category.

3.2.3.2 Severely Project Affected Families (SPAFs)

In accordance with current practices and guidelines, families who are physically displaced from

their residences or commercial establishments and those who are severely affected through

loss of agricultural land are classified as SPAF. This includes two sub-categories: i) Households

losing land more than 10% upto 50% of their land and ii) Households losing more than 50% of

their land. The households losing residential structures are also included in this category.

3.2.3.3 Vulnerable Communities

In the context of Nepal, vulnerable community means communities who are commonly landless

and marginal farmers living below subsistence level. Moreover, these groups have no or limited

access to public resources and they almost never participate in national planning, policy, and

don’t have access in decision making process or in development initiatives. As a result, their

risk of falling below the poverty line is high.

Formal and informal studies conducted in Nepal reveal that most of Janajati, Adibasi and Dalits

fall under the category of vulnerable person in Nepal. Women, disabled, ethnic minorities and

Dalits groups as the predominant poor and marginalized groups fall under vulnerable

community. Women in all social groups and regions are more disadvantaged than their male

counterpart and even among women, widows, separated and women headed households are

particularly disadvantaged.



Figure 3-1: AKSHEP Delineation Map

Source: Department of Survey and GIS Analysis

3.3 Field Study The EIA study team visited the project area for field study during BS 2076/05/06 to 26 to collect

the baseline information of the project area on physical, biological, and socio-economic and

cultural domains. The study team identified the potential environmental impact areas and the

pertinent issues. The team visited the project area starting from reservoir area at Galyang

Municipality followed by intake, dam site and up to end dewatered zone. The team made

observation on all the relevant environmental components required for EIA.

Baseline information on the socio-economic and cultural environment of the project area was

also collected through public consultation and meetings. Similarly, photographs of the project

areas were taken. The study team also visited government line agencies of the project-affected

districts to interact with concerned officials. From them, the team collected necessary

information and their concerns. A team of following members was involved in the field

investigation for preparation of the EIA.

Table 3-3: List of persons involved in the EIA Team

S. N. Name Qualification Position Remarks

Experts from ESSD

1 Bireddra Bikram Malla M Sc in Environmental

Science

Team Leader

NEA-ESSD

2 Mr. Achut Dawadi MA in Economics Team Coordinator

3 Mr Milan Dahal M Sc in Zoology Team Member

4 Mr. Bijesh Dhakal B. E in Civil Engineering

Team Member/Physical

Environment

5 Ms. Poonam Pokhrel

MA in Economics Team Member / Socio-

economic Environment

6 Ms. Shailaza Gyawanli MA in Sociology

Team Member/Social

Environment

7 Mr. Kaushal Ghimire ME in Civil Engineering Team

Member/Physical

Environment

8 Mr. Binod Pyakurel M Sc in Invironmental

Science

Team Member/

Biological Environment

Experts/Officials from Line Ministry and Departments

9 Nawaraj Baral I Sc foresty Asst. Forest Officer Sub-Division

forest office

,Syanja

10 Gopal Dhakal Forest guard

Outsourced Experts

11 Mr Rajkapoor Napit Fisheries/Aquatic Life Out sourced

The study team has adopted a participatory approach with maximum involvement of different

stakeholders of the project at the local and district levels to generate relevant information for the

EIA. Technical staffs from Sub-Division Forest Office, Gaylang were also involved in the study.

3.3.1 Physical Environment

Different methods and tools were used during the field study for collection of data on the

physical environment. The following sections discuss the data collection procedures adopted

during the field visit.



3.3.1.1 Water Quality

Water samples were collected from the specified two sampling points of specified locations

from the proposed dam site (Andhikhola River), powerhouse site (Kaligandaki). Onsite field

measurements were done for test parameters including pH, conductivity, temperature and

dissolved oxygen. For offsite test, sample for heavy metal were preserved with conc. HNO3 and

for other required test sample were kept in ice box and transport to lab. The samples were

transported to laboratory in Kathmandu within same day. Samples were analysed according to

23rd edition of the Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater published

by AWWA-APHA-WEF, according to the same protocol document.

Samples were taken in pre-washed tarson bottles. The samples were taken at least 3 times

washing with the same sampling water for chemical testing sample. Samples for heavy metal

analysis were preserved in conc. Nitric acid. For TSS, TDS, Hardness, Alkalinity, Hydroxide,

samples were collected without preservatives and transported to laboratory of Kathmandu

keeping in ice box. Microbiological samples were collected in sterilized bottles.

Sample collection, preservation were done with suitable and storage of samples in ice box for

laboratory test parameters: Turbidity, Total Alkalinity (as CaCO3), Carbonate Alkalinity,

Bicarbonate Alkalinity, Hydroxide, Total Suspended Solids, Total Dissolved Solids, Total

Hardness (as CaCO3), Calcium Hardness, Magnesium Hardness, Calcium, Magnesium,

Chloride, Sulphates, Nitrate - Nitrogen, Ammonia - Nitrogen, Fluoride, Phosphate, , Heavy

Metals: Iron (Fe), Manganese (Mn), Arsenic (As), Mercury (Hg), Lead (Pb), Zinc (Zn), Nickel

(Ni), Sodium (Na), Potassium (K), Chromium (Cr). Total Coliform /E. coli as per Standard

Methods.

Chlorides, hardness, alkalinity were analysed by titration method whereas Ammonia, Nitrate,

Nitrite, Fluoride, Phosphates, etc. were analysed by using UV Visible spectrophotometer (UV

VIS) applying as digestion required. Turbidity was tested using Nephelo meter and Total

Suspended Solids, Total Dissolved Solids were estimated by gravimetric method.

Similarly, Metal (Iron, Manganese, Lead, Sodium, Potassium, Chromium, Zinc, Lead,

Cadmium, Nickel) samples were analysed by Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS) and

Mercury will be analysed by AAS with Cold Hydride Vapour Generation System whereas

Arsenic by AAS hot vapour hydride generation system. The BOD analysis was conducted by 5

days incubation method whereas COD shall be analysed by open reflux method.

3.3.1.2 Air Quality

For the determination of TSPM, PM10, PM2.5 and Lead; sampling were done with help of high

volume sampler (HVS). Pre-weighted fiber glass filter paper were used for the collection of

PM10, PM2.5 and pre-weighted cup were used for larger particles than PM10, PM2.5. After

sampling safely transported to laboratory and taken the weight of exposed filter paper and cup

and finally determine the PM10 and TSPM against the drawn volume of air.

For determination of lead, exposed filter paper was digested in Nitric Acid and the lead

concentration determined in Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). Similarly, SOx and

NOx were sampled simultaneously by the same instrument through the attached gas sampling

gadget. Sodium Hydroxide and Tetra Chloro Mercurate (TCM) solutions absorbing reagents

were used for NOx and SOx respectively. The collection tubes were kept chilled with ice water to

prevent evaporation and to provide greater absorption. Samples were instantly stored in



refrigerator and safety transported to the laboratory under cold condition with ice in an ice box

and kept at low temperature till analysis to determine the values of the parameters.

For the sampling of Benzene, Organic Vapour Sampling equipment and activated charcoal

tubes were used. After sampling safely transported in the laboratory and determined the

concentration in Gas Chromatography (GC). Similarly, for the monitoring of Carbon monoxide

(CO), a dragger pump was used with low concentration CO detector tube.

3.3.1.3 Noise Quality

Noise levels were recorded by using digital sound level recorder SL 4023 using SD card data

logger after calibration with Sound calibrator device.The following table summarizes the

different methods used to collect the baseline information on the physical environment for EIA.

Table 3-4: Methods for Collection of Data related to Physical Environment

S.N.

Component Required Data Methods for Data

Collection Location



3.3.2 Biological Environment

The methodology incorporated under this heading includes measurement of vegetation/forest

resource and identification of fauna in the project area of AKSHEP.

3.3.2.1 Vegetation/ Forest Resources

For accessing the vegetation different methods were used which are described below;

1. Air Quality

• Total suspended solid particulates (TSPM), PM10, PM2.5

• Sulpher Dioxide (SO2), Oxide of Nitrogen (NOx)

• High Volume Air Sampler (HVS)

• Proposed dam site, powerhouse site, construction plant areas

2 Noise and Vibrations

• Noise Level • Direct measurement

(Digital sound Level recorder SL 4023)

• Proposed dam site, powerhouse site, construction plant areas,

3. Water Quality

• Total Suspended Solids (TSS)

• Total Dissolve Solid (TDS)

• Turbidity,

• pH

• temperature

• water sampling from different sources and lab analysis

• Near Dam Axis

• Near Powerhouse area

4 Geology and Geomorphology

• Type of Rock

• Type of soil

• Visual Inspection

• Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT)-2D

• Literature Review

• Project Geological Investigation Report

• Dam site

• Intake site

• Power house site

• Reservoir Area

5. Landslides and Slope stability

• Existing landslides and unstable areas

• visual inspection

• photographs

• local information

• Reservoir area

• Intake sites

• Powerhouse site

6 Topography, watershed, and land used

• Slope, aspect, altitude

• Land used pattern

• Type and ownership of land

• Topographic map

• Cadastral Map

• Google Earth

• GIS analysis

• Field Study

• Reservoir area

• Dam site

• Intake sites

• Powerhouse site

7 Climate and Hydrology

• Temperature and rainfall data

• Discharge of river

• Drainage pattern of watershed

• Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (DHM)

• Direct measurement

• Literature review

• Feasibility report of AKSHEP

• Project Affected Area

• Watershed of River

8 Seismicity • Seismic design

parameter • Literature review

• Project Affected Area



a. Quadrate Sampling

Division and Sub-division forest office of Syangja were consulted regarding the forest

inventories methodology for reservoir and access road. Taking into account the site

accessibility and coverage, quadrant sampling was done in the reservoir area to assess CFs

and GMFs. During the Quadrant Sampling, DBH and height of all tree and pole was measured

and noted. Any new species of tree found outside the quadrant was also noted.

Following the methodology as defined in Community Forest Resource Inventory (CFRI) 2061

(Table 3-5), concentric circular plot of radii 1.78 m, 2.82 m, 5.64 m and 12.61 m were used for

the four vegetation subplots consisting of seedling, sapling, pole and tree respectively.

Altogether, 13 sample plots were surveyed in the CFs and GMF, as very small patches of CFs

and GMFs fall within the reservoir area. This represents the 3.37% of total forest area (0.6 ha

out of 17.765 ha). The ground vegetation and any new species of tree sighted outside the

sample plot were also noted. Based on this information, loss of regeneration (saplings and

seedlings), loss of vegetation (pole and tree class), is calculated.

Table 3-5: Detail of Sample Plot Design

S.N. Type Plot Radius (m) Area (m2) DBH limit (cm)

1 Seedling 1.78 10 <4

2 Sapling 2.82 25 4-10

3 Pole 5.64 100 10-30

4 Tree 12.61 500 >30

Source: CFRIG, 2061

Picture 3-1: Fixing of Sample Plots



Picture 3-2: Measurement of DBH in Reservoir Area

In each plot, tree species were identified, and all trees equals or exceeding a diameter of 10 cm

at breast height were counted with their height and DBH. Seedlings and saplings were

identified and noted. Similarly, occurrence and distribution pattern of shrubs and herbs species

available in and around the sample plots were recorded. Additional information on herbs and

shrubs was collected from the field observation, literatures and Focus Group Discussion (FGD)

using biological questionnaire. The list of participants of FGD is attached in Appendix C.

In addition, trees on private unarable land (Kharbari) within the reservoir areas were estimated

through quadrate sampling. A circular plot of 12.61 m radius was laid and all the trees within the

plot was noted. Likewise, private trees on access road was assess through total enumeration.

For private trees (including fruit, fodder and other trees) on agriculture land, census was carried

out for every household of the reservoir area and other project components of the proposed

AKSHEP administering social HHs questionnaire. All private trees potentially impacted by the

project were noted in the questionnaire.The following table summarizes different methods used

to collect baseline information on the biological environment.



Figure 3-2: Sample plot location in forest area



Table 3-6: Methods for Collection of Data related to Biological Environment

S.N. Components Required Data Methods for Data Collection

1. Forest • Forest type

• Forest Management


• Site Visit

2 Terrestrial Flora

• List of major plant species

• NTFPs

• Ethno-botanical uses

• Field Investigation;

• Sampling and census;

• FGD

• KII

3. Terrestrial Fauna

• Type of wild mammals

• Type of Birds

• Types of Reptiles

• Types of Amphibians

• Wildlife Habitat


• Field Investigation/Observation

• FGD

• KII

• Photographs

4. Aquatic Flora and Fauna

• Type of fish species

• Fish Migration status

• Phytoplanktons

• Zooplanktons

• Aquatic Insects

• Habitat Status


• Fish Sampling (two season)

• Sampling of phytoplanktons, zooplankton and aquatic insects

• Interviews with local fishermen/people

• Field observation; photographs

5. Species Conservation Status

• Availability and status of rare, endangered and protected species of flora and fauna

• Verification of collected list of flora and fauna with GoN laws, IUCN red List and CITES Appendices.

b) Key Informant Interview (KII)

For this EIA of the AKSHEP, altogether three KIIs were carried out in order to obtain the

relevant data on the biological environment. The officers of the Division and Sub-division forest

office and local were consulted to collect information on forest and wildlife as well as local use

of the forest resources.

c) Focus Group Discussion (FGD)

Altogether three Focus Group Discussion (FGD) were carried out with the project affected

community forest users groups (CFUGs) and local people. During the meetings, participants

were introduced about the project features, potential impact on the environment, various

mitigation and enhancement measures likely to be adopted during construction and operation

phase of the project.

A checklist was developed and introduced in the field to collect the primary information about

dependency of local people on community forest and non-timber forest products. The issues

raised during meetings were discussed and recorded. FGDs were held to collect information on

the availability of flora and fauna, dependency of local people on forest resources, availability of

Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs), etc. The attendance of participants of the FGD is given

in Appendix C.

3.3.2.2 Wildlife

Data on wildlife was collected by direct observation at different project sites and adjacent areas

with various land use types (e.g. forest areas, agriculture land, etc.). The indirect evidences

such as scats/droppings, calls and cliffs were also used for identification of mammals and birds

in the area. Evidences of occurrence of wildlife were also collected through questionnaire

survey. Records of DFO were also used as a background information.



3.4 Assessment of Fish and Aquatic Life For the environmental assessment of the AKSHEP, the study of the fisheries and aquatic life is

an important aspect. So, in order to acquire information about the fisheries and aquatic life of

the Andhikhola and Kaligandaki River, an initial and rapid assessment of fisheries was carried

out during the scoping phase of AKSHEP. This assessment assessed the fish habitat and fish

bio-diversity of the river system.

The study methodology for fish and aquatic life includes the literature review, field survey, data

collection ,data analysis and study of fish bio-diversity by the expert and technicians. The study

team has carried out walk through survey along the bank of river, fish and plankton sampling,

observation of local catch by local fisherman, data collection and data analysis.

3.4.1 Literature Review

The existing literature, reports and published documents on fish and fisheries as well as EIA

reports (fisheries section) of other related hydropower projects were reviewed. The review was

mainly focused on operation phase environmental monitoring report of Kaligandaki 'A'

Hydropower Project. The review aims to understand the fish diversity of different river system of

Nepal, particularly on fish and aquatic life of Andhikhola River.

3.4.2 Sampling Locations

In developing hydroelectricity projects, the environmental conditions of the river and the riverine

system seem to change a lot mainly in the intake site or upstream of dam, dewatered zone and

the tailrace region.

Five sample site locations along the Aandhi Khola stretch as required for the Aandhi Khola

Storage HEP. Fish samples were collected from up and downstream of Dam site and Reservoir

area also include of Aadhi Khola and Kaligandaki River to collect information about fish

distribution and composition of the river.

The proposed powerhouse site area at the left bank of Kaligandaki River was sampled to

understand the fish diversity and migration pattern. Approximately 2000 meter area was

covered at each sampling site.

The planktons and aquatic insects were collected from station FAK1, FAK2, FAK4 and FAK5.

The sampling stations are set along the different stretch of Aandhi Khola and Kaligandaki River.

Cast net and Gill net were used for fish catch for sampling and local fishermen were hired to

carry out the cast net operation on sampling sites. The sampling stations are given in the table

below;



Table 3-7: Fish Sampling Stations

Site No.

North Latitude

East Longitude

Sites

Work at

River Bank

Right bank of River Left bank of River

District V.P. Ward No.

tol/ village

District V.P. Ward No.

tol/ village

FAK

1

27o 58'

41.19" 83o 44' 58.83"

Nearest Last water

level of Reservoir

area of Andhikhola

Storage HEP

Left Syangja Waling MP 9 Dhara Syangja Waling

MP 9 Rahudanda

FAK

2

27o 57'

09.93" 83o 41' 58.99"

Reservoir area of

Andhikhola

Storage HEP

Left Syangja Galyang 9 Buka Syangja Galyang 9 Dhare

FAK

3

27o 57'

42.86" 83o 36' 26.83"

Upstream of Dam

site Reservoir area Left Syangja Kaligandaki 7 Aagijhang Syangja Galyang 4 Motichour

FAK

4

27o 58'

25.39" 83o 35' 53.31"

Dam site of

Andhikhola

Storage HEP

Left Syangja Kaligandaki 7 Sital Syangja Galyang 4 Sital

FAK

5

27o 55'

30.38" 83o 40' 17.71"

Powerhouse site

of Andhikhola

Storage HEP in

Kaligandaki River

Right Syangja Galyang 1 Malunga Palpa Ramba 3 Aserdi

Andhikhola Storage HEP (180 MW) Study Methodology


3.4.3 Field Survey

A team of professional experts, technician and support staff carried out field survey for fish and

aquatic life of river system in the project area. The field survey and investigation lasted for 17

days (August 18, 2017 to September 3, 2017) in the wet season during scoping phase.

Similarly, the field survey lasted for 12 days (April 8 to April 19, 2019) in the dry season during

the EIA phase.

The field survey included collection of fish specimen, planktons and aquatic insects from

different sampling locations, identification and characterization of fish habitat and collection of

information about fish migration and spawning pattern. Checklist was developed and used for

the fish data collection

Picture 3-3: Fish and Aquatic Life Survey Team (Wet and Dry Season)

3.4.3.1 Habitat Characteristics

The fish habitat was studied by using visual method (observation). Topographical map of

1:25000 scale was used for river habitat identification and characterization. Possible spawning

habitat conditions such as type, cover and shelter were recorded by walking along side of river

bank. The fish habitat such as run, riffle and pool in different section of Andhikhola and

Kaligandaki river were recorded by visual observation during the field visit.

3.4.3.2 Fish Specimen Collection and Catch Study

Standard data sheet were developed and used for data collection. The number of efforts

employed by fishermen was recorded to determine Catch per Unit Effort (CPUE). Fish species

caught during the field visit at each sampling sites will be identified using standard method of

taxonomy (Shrestha, 1981 and 1994). Measurements of total length, weight and other

morphological characteristics of collected fish were recorded. Photographs of collected species

were also taken. After collecting the required data, the caught fish species were released in

River.



Picture 3-4: Fish Specimen Collected (Wet and Dry Season)

3.4.3.3 Planktons and Aquatic Insects

Sample of planktons and aquatic insects were collected from three sampling sites during

scoping phase. Whereas, during EIA phase, the samples were collected from all the six

sampling stations.

3.4.3.4 Phytoplankton

One liter of water was collected in a glass jar and Lugal’s solution was added into the glass jar

till the water color will change as light tea color appeared. The collected water was allowed to

settle down for 24 hours and after that, water was siphoned out with the help of plastic tube.

The sample solution was siphoned until it reaches 50 ml mark on the glass jar. Then the

remaining solution of phytoplankton was transferred into the sample bottle. The preserved

sample was brought Kathmandu for the laboratory analysis.

3.4.3.5 Zooplanktons

One hundred liters of River water was filtered through 50mm plankton net to collect 50ml

sample. The filtered water along with zooplankton was transferred to sample bottle. Ethanol

was used for preservation of plankton sample. Preserved sample was brought to Kathmandu

for lab analysis.



Picture 3-5: Collection of Zooplanktons (Wet and Dry Season)

3.4.3.6 Aquatic Insects

Aquatic insects were collected by D- net (Drift net) and forceps and preserved in ethanol. The

preserved insect sample was brought for identification.

3.4.4 Laboratory Analysis

The collected preserved sample of aquatic insects and planktons were identified in Water Test

Laboratory at Maitidevi, Kathmandu

3.4.5 Socio-economic and Cultural Environment

For this EIA of the AKSHEP, KIIs ,FGDs Market survey and HH survey were carried out in

order to obtain the relevant data on the social-economic and cultural environment. Local

people, local aama samuha, school staff, teachers, and CFUGs were consulted to collect

information on social-economic and cultural environment. During the meetings, participants

were introduced about the project features, potential impact on the socio-economic

environment, various mitigation and enhancement measures likely to be adopted during

construction and operation phase of the project. A checklist was developed and introduced in

the field to collect the primary information .The issues raised during meetings were discussed

and recorded. FGDs were held to collect social information on the community . The attendance

of participants of the FGDs is given in Appendix D-II.

Table 3-8: Methodologies used for Collecting Socioeconomic and Cultural Data

S. N.

Parameter Literature

Review

Field Investigation

KII

PRA

HH Survey

Market Survey

FGD Meetings/

Consultation

Social Features 1 Demography √ √ 2. Settlements √ √ √

3 Ethnicity √ √ √ 4 Language √ √ √ √ 5 Religion √ √ √ 6 Festivals √ √ √ √

7 Migration √ √ √ √

8 Gender Aspect √ √ √ √ √

9 Law and Order Situation √ √ √

10 Education and Literacy √ √ √

11 Health and Sanitation √ √ √



S. N.

Parameter Literature

Review

Field Investigation

KII

PRA

HH Survey

Market Survey

FGD Meetings/

Consultation

12 Road and Transportation √ √

13 Energy √ √ √ 14 Communication and Other Facilities √ √ √

15 Development Initiative/Activities in the Project Area

√ √ √

16 Tourism activities √ √ √ Economic Features 17 Local price information √ 18 Economic status √ √ √ Cultural Features

19 Archeological, Historical and Religious Sites

√ √ √

20 Aesthetic value √ √

21 Attitude of the local people to the development of this project

√ √

3.5 Data Analysis The data (primary and secondary) collected was analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively as

appropriate. The following methods were used to analyze data of three different environments;

3.5.1 Physical Environment

The type of land use and area calculation has been prepared with reference to the

topographical maps, cadastral map, survey report, digital maps provided by the Department of

Survey with field verifications. Similarly, the numbers of structures in reservoir area were

determined with the help of the plan and profile of the Final Survey Report with verifications at

site. Each structure within the reservoir was individually marked on the GPS and the

dimensions of the structure were measured/noted.

The collected data from the field visit was analyzed using different software like ArcGIS 10.2.1,

AutoCAD, Google Earth, MS Office by the study team in coordination with the project engineers

and experts. Necessary maps and information thus generated were presented in the report.

The beneficial and adverse impacts have been predicted and appropriate mitigation measures

are proposed to reduce the adverse impacts.

3.5.2 Biological Environment

The data from forest sampling were quantitatively analyzed for density, basal area, crown

coverage and wood volume. These parameters were calculated using the following formulae:

No. of individuals of a species

Density (D)/hectare = ---------------------------------------------------------- 10,000

Size of the plot Total no. of plots sampled Density of individual species

Relative Density (RD) = ------------------------------------- 100 Density of all species Total no. of plots in which the sp. occurred

Frequency (F) % = ------------------------------------------------------- 100 Total no. of plots sampled



Frequency of individual species

Relative Frequency (RF) = ------------------------------------------ 100 Frequency of all species Total basal area of particular species

Relative dominance (Rdom) = ------------------------------------------------ 100 Total basal area of all species

Basal Area is the trunk cross-sectional area. For estimating the basal area, wood volume and biomass of the pole size and timber size trees to be felled for the project, the trees were individually enumerated and identified with their local names and botanical nomenclatures. Then their diameter at the breast height was taken in each sampling sites. Similarly, the "Volume of forest trees of Nepal" was referred to estimate the volume up to 10 cm top diameter with bark. The basal area of each of trees was calculated based on diameter at breast height.

Basal Area (BA) = (dbh/2)2

Importance Value Index (IVI) = RD + RF + RDom

Wood volume of standing tree = 1/2 BA Height

Likewise, data from forest census survey was quantitatively analyzed for each individual tree/

pole for its biomass.

The average density of the basal area per hectare was calculated as total basal area (m2)

divided by total area of land (ha). For determining the wood volume, basal area x height formula

was used. Moreover, loss of forest land, loss of forest species, its type, volume and number of

trees to be cut etc. were identified and calculated.

Information of flora and fauna (plants, mammals, reptiles, avifauna, herpeto-fauna etc.)

collected from the field was listed. Nationally protected species, CITES listed species and IUCN

Red list was identified by cross checking the respective list of flora and fauna. In addition,

nationally banned flora species for collection, felling, transportation and export was also

reviewed.

In addition to the above, the cost benefit analysis of the project was done as per the conditions

prescribed in consent letter of the then MoFE (Appendix I of the ToR document). Such

environmental cost-benefit analysis was done by considering the following environmental cost

and benefits in addition to the conventional valuation.

3.5.3 Socio-economic and Cultural Environment

The collected information and data were analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively to establish

baseline information on physical, biological and socio-economic and cultural environments. For

this purpose, all checklists, questionnaires and field notes were thoroughly reviewed, cleaned,

edited and coded. Then this data/information from the questionnaires/checklists was entered on

processing data entry layout. Then using simple statistical tools quantitative data such as

mean, range, and percentage were computed. The descriptive method was used for the

analysis of qualitative data.

The MS Office (WORD and EXCEL) software program was used further analysis. The outputs

of such analysis were then analyzed and converted in the context of the study objectives. The

secondary and primary information and data collected were cross-checked and triangulated.

Based on the findings of the baseline information and data potential impacts on socioeconomic

and cultural environmental impacts were identified and assessed. Based on suggestions made



by the local people and stakeholders' enhancement measures for beneficial impacts and

mitigation measures for adverse impacts are proposed.

Review of concerned laws, rules and regulations and outcome of the public consultations, and

literature reviews are other important tools that were used to analyse the data. The analyzed

data were then interpreted and discussed in appropriate sections of the EIA report.

3.6 Public Involvement/ Consultation

3.6.1 Consultation during EIA

In August-September, 2019, as part of the EIA fieldwork, extensive consultation was made with

the stakeholders by the study team. This included in-depth interviews with key stakeholders in

the project area, market surveys and informal meetings with local and district-level stakeholders

(FUGs, GoN line agencies, etc.). The main issues and concerns of the stakeholders have been

incorporated in the public involvement/consultation chapter (Chapter 10) of this report.

3.6.2 Public Hearing

One public hearing program was held in the project area on 2076/09/05 BS. The public hearing

was held at the premises of Bhanubhakta Acharya Ma.Vi, Galang-3 Syangja, which is the

affected area of the project. Public notice regarding the public hearing was published in local

newspaper. The programs were also be broadcasted through local FM radio station. Request

letters for participation in the public hearing were sent to concerned ministries and departments

and receipt of the notice receive also collected. The notices were displayed at district level

offices, RM/Municipality office and at public places of the major settlement of project

RMs/Municipality. Video record was made for the entire program and written concerns of the

participants were collected. The recommendation letters of affected RMs/Municipality were

collected. The detail of public hearing is presented in Chapter 10.

3.7 Impact Identification, Prediction and Evaluation

3.7.1 Impact Identification

Based on consultations organized among affected people and stakeholders during preliminary

field visit made by the study team for Scoping Document preparation, impacts/issues that may

trigger due to project intervention were identified and prioritized. From the scoping exercise

both types of beneficial and adverse impacts were identified for EIA. The impacts were

categorized as per environmental domain (i.e. physical, biological, and socio-economic cultural

environments). Likewise, an impact that may trigger under different phases of project

implementation (i.e. pre-construction, construction and operation) was also taken into account

for the assessment. During EIA phase, following tools were used for impact identification:

• Checklist, Key Informant Interview

• HHs Questionnaire

• Table format for loss of land, crop production and property of the PAFs/SPAFs

• Expert’s judgment

3.7.2 Impact Prediction

Topographic map of the impact area been used in predicting the impacts of the proposed

AKSHEP by analyzing the effect of project activities on the resources like existing

infrastructures, rivers/rivulets, settlements, private land, forest, etc. present in the location. GIS

analysis was also used. The expert’s judgment using past experiences of similar type of

projects have been used to predict impacts. Wherever possible, impact predictions have been

done quantitatively.



3.7.3 Impact Assessment/Evaluation

The assessment of impacts is based on the baseline environmental conditions of the affected

area with the project activities in relation to spatial and temporal aspects in terms of magnitude,

extent and duration using various environmental prediction methods. The impact has been

predicted over a specified period and within defined area. Consequences of environmental

impacts were interpreted in terms of local, regional and national contexts. The significant

positive and adverse environmental impacts associated with the project components have been

identified considering the impact zone. The magnitude, extent and duration of the impacts

which were categorized according to the National EIA Guidelines, 1993 are given below:

3.7.3.1 Magnitude of Impact

The following criteria were considered in this EIA to evaluate the significance of the identified

and predicted adverse impacts of the project activities on the environment.

• Low Impact (L): If the value of the resources could be used with no or minimum

inconvenience to the public

• Medium/Moderate Impact (M): If the value of the resources could be used with

inconvenience to the public

• High Impact (H): If the value of the resources reduced far below publicly acceptable level.

The magnitude of impact is considered serious or high/major if a major adverse impacts

cannot be mitigated.

3.7.3.2 Extent of Impact

• Site Specific (S): If the impact is limited up to the project site/area is site specific.

• Local (L): If the impact is limited up to the affected RM/municipality or the watershed alone

then it is termed as local.

• Regional (R): If the impact of the work extends beyond the watershed or to the entire

district or further then it is termed regional.

3.7.3.3 Duration of Impact

• Short Term (ST): If the impacts last only for 3 years after project initiation it is classified as

short term. Construction phase impacts are mostly categorized under this category.

• Medium Term (MT): An impact that continues for more than 3 years but less than 20 years

is considered as medium-term. The construction phase impacts which carry over for few

years of operation falls under this category.

• Long Term (LT): An impact that lasts beyond 20 years is considered long term. The

operation phase impacts are mostly categorized under this category.

Based upon the above classification a numerical scale is developed in order to provide a

qualitative assessment of various types of predicted impacts. The following ranking

methodology has been used in this EIA (using the National EIA Guidelines, 2049 (1993).

Magnitude (M) Value Extent (E) Value Duration (Du) Value

High/Major 60 Regional 60 Long Term 20

Moderate 20 Local 20 Medium Term 10

Minor/Low 10 Site Specific 10 Short Term 05

The sum of impact values provides a maximum of 140 and minimum of 25. For any impact

whose sum of impact value is more than 75, the impact is considered as ‘Highly Significant’.

For the sum of impact value between 50 and 75, the impact is considered as ‘Significant’.

Similarly, the impact is considered as ‘Less Significant’ if the sum of impact value is below 50.



3.8 Limitations of the Study The assessment of the site conditions was based mainly upon visual observations, literature

and interviews with the local people. Since no updated topographic maps are available, the GIS

analysis was based such maps mainly of mid-1990s. The generated information from GIS,

mainly land use, does not coincide with the actual field data. Field verifications are done to

minimize the error but still some conflicts are encountered in mapping. The lack of detail survey

report of the reservoir area created some difficulties in assessing the impact of the project

during the field study. For defining the reservoir area, the level of full supply and freeboard was

fixed by using GPS only. Some information, particularly on physical and biological environment,

reflects the characteristic only of that particular season and time of investigation. This resulted

in generalization of impacts for project and other facilities.

Difficulties were also encountered during the socio-economic data collection as some of the

land/structure owners of the affected area were absent during the HH survey. Furthermore,

some information mainly on land holding, agricultural production, income and expenditure are

approximate value based on the HH survey. Problems were encountered in determining the

owner of the land and assets as the legal transfer of land ownership was not done for

generation in cases of some households.

Andhikhola Storage HEP (180MW) Existing Environmental Condition


4 EXISTING ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITION

This chapter provides information on the physical, biological and socio-economic elements of

the environment. The area considered for assessment of baseline conditions span the whole

PADs of Syangja and Palpa, which will be large enough in extent to include all potential impacts

from the proposed project. Data were obtained as a result of literature review and field surveys.

4.1 Physical Environment The proposed project area lies in different terrain affecting variety of land use pattern. The

topography, land use, climatic condition, geology and geomorphology, seismology, air, water

and noise condition, watershed and drainage pattern and hydrology that shall be influenced due

to the construction of this project has been discussed in each topic ahead.

4.1.1 Physiography and Topography

The watershed of Andhikhola for the proposed dam site is distributed over only one

physiographic zones of Nepal viz. hill. The watershed map below also depicts the mixed slope

orientation, area mostly below 2500-masl elevation and topographic slope mostly below 30°.

The mountain ranges extending from northeast to west of Andhikhola is relatively flat to

rounded ridge crests with low relief. Series of secondary ridges in the north-south direction

have caused the river channel U forms in several places like Matichaur, Chharak, Illunga,

Dudhichaur, Chiuri, Kamalati area. The altitude of these secondary mountain ranges vary from

800 masl to 1200 masl

Andhikhola River with “V” shaped valley is east to west trending Perennial River. The gradient

of this River is medium to low in the project area. It forms wide valley within the project area.

The project area lies in relatively steep topography influenced by medium landslide along the

reservoir. The headwork area comprises of steep topography at both bank with exposed rocks.

Similarly, surge tank lie on the flat and powerhouse area lie on steep topography with stable

ground. The elevation of riverbed at dam location is 548 masl and at end of reservoir is 700

masl. The layout of AKSHEP is shown in Figure 2.5.

(a) (b) Picture 4-1: (a) Proposed Reservoir Area and (b) Proposed Dam site-Matichaur



(a)

(b)

Picture 4-2: (a) Proposed Power Area and (b) Proposed Intake site

(a)

(b)

Picture 4-3: (a) Proposed Surge Shaft Area and (b) Proposed switchyard site



(a)

(b)

(b)

Figure 4-1: (a) Slope Aspect and (b) Elevation Map of Watershed of AKSHEP

Source: GIS Analysis



(a)

(b)

Figure 4-2: (a) Physiography and (b) Slope Map of Watershed of AKSHEP




(a)

(b)

Figure 4-3: (a) Physiographic and (b) Slope Map of the PAAs




(a)

(b)

Figure 4-4: (a) Slope Aspect and (b) Elevation Map of PAA


The above maps of PAA illustrate the project configuration lie within Hill physiographic features

and all the components lie below 1000 m elevation.



4.1.2 Land Use

The land use pattern through which project component passes/lies are riverbank, barren land,

cultivated land, and forestland. The proposed dam site is located on river and its bank of slightly

weathered exposed rock and barren land. The reservoir area comprises of mainly private

barren (kharbari), cultivated land, settlement, river and its bank. Likewise, surge tank is opened

to barren land. The land use of the project area is discussed in the following sub-sections;

4.1.2.1 PAA

The land use map shows that most of the PAA is cultivated land (54.38%) followed by forest

land (33%) (Refer Figure 4.5 and Table 4.1). Similarly, the other land use cover in PAA are

grassland (6.36%), Bush (3.65%), River (1.41%), Sand (0.99%), cliff (0.19%) and barren land

(0.02%). The total land use area is estimated to be 42052.8476 ha among which cultivation is

highest (22869.689 ha).

Figure 4-5: Land Use Map of PAA

Source: Department of survey and GIS Analysis

Table 4-1: Land Use of PAA

S. N Land use Area (ha) Percentage (%)

1 Cultivation 22869.689 54.38

2 Forest 13878.2833 33.00

3 Grassland 2676.5937 6.36

4 Bush 1533.5694 3.65

5 River 593.8934 1.41

6 Sand 414.7687 0.99

7 Cutting, Cliff 79.8932 0.19

8 Barren 6.1569 0.02

Total 42052.8476 100




4.1.2.2 Watershed Area

The watershed of AKSHEP is covered by cultivated land (55.33%), followed by 30.49% forest

as shown in Figure 4.6 and Table 4.2. Similarly, the other prominent land use cover in

catchment area is grassland (7.80%), bush (4.31%), sand (1.27%) and others (river, builtup,

pond, and barren). The total land use area is estimated to be 47387.4881ha among which

cultivated land cover is highest (26221.08 ha).

Figure 4-6: Land Use Map of Watershed

Source: Department of Survey and GIS Analysis

Table 4-2: Land use of Watershed

S. N. Land use Area (ha) Percentage (%)

1 Cultivation 26221.088 55.33

2 Forest 14450.570 30.49

3 Grassland 3699.581 7.80

4 Bush 2046.323 4.31

5 Sand 604.668 1.27

6 River 287.969 0.60

7 Cutting, Cliff 39.151 0.08

8 Barren 36.191 0.07

9 Built-up 1.228 0.003

10 Pond 0.715 0.002

Total 47387.4881 100




4.1.2.3 Reservoir Area

The project required 891.105 ha area in reservoir area. About 46.34% of reservoir area is

private barren land (Kharbari), 27.39% is cultivated, 6.81% is built up area, 1.35% is forest,

18.12% is river and sand. The land of river and sand belongs to government land. The land use

map and land use area of reservoir area are presented in Figure 4-7 and Table 4-3.

Figure 4-7: Land Use Map of Reservoir Area (at 710 masl)

Source: GIS Analysis, Department of Survey and Field verification

Table 4-3: Land use of Reservoir at 710masl

S. N. Land use Area (ha) Percentage (%)

1 Government Forest 1.244 0.14

2 Community Forest 10.725 1.20

3 Cultivation land (khet and Bari) 244.106 27.39

4 Private Barren land (Kharbari) 412.903 46.34

5 Built-up Area 60.658 6.81

6 Others (Land occupied by River water, Sand and Flood Plain)

161.469 18.12

Total 891.105 100.00

Source: GIS Analysis and Field Verification

4.1.3 Climate

Upper tropical and sub-tropical climate prevail in the PAAs. Temperature and precipitation data

(from 2010 to 2020) were taken from Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (DHM). From

these data, it was found that the range of average maximum temperature and average

minimum temperature shown by nearest Syangja station were 26.63°C to 29.25°C and 14.76°C

to 15.63°C respectively. Similarly, average maximum and average minimum temperature



shown by nearest Tansen station were found to be 25.43oC to 26.9oC and 12.09oC to 15.45oC

respectively.

As per precipitation data obtained from Waling station of Syangja District, average annual

rainfall from 2010 to 2019 (9 years) was found to be 190748mm. Similarly, average annual

rainfall from 2010 to 2019 (10 years) was found to be 1762.76mm as per precipitated data

recorded by Garakot station of Palpa District. The trend of average annual temperature and

annual rainfall of Syangja and Palpa districts are shown in Figure 4-8 and Figure 4-9

respectively.

2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019

Tmax. (°C) 27.6 26.63 27.26 27.8 29.25 26.95 28.22 28.18 27.33 27.33

Tmin.(°C) 15.61 15.13 14.76 15.52 15.49 16.25 15.61 15.63 15.26 15.48

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

Tem

per

atu

re,°

C

Year

Average Annual Maximum and Minimum Temperature of Syangja

(a)

(b)

Figure 4-8: Temperature (a) and Precipitation (b) of Syangja District

Source: DHM, Nepal



(a)

(b)

Figure 4-9: Temperature (a) and Precipitation (b) of Palpa District

Source: DHM, Nepal



Figure 4-10: Meteorological Station near PAAs

Source: GIS Analysis and DHM, Nepal

4.1.4 Geomorphology and Geology

The proposed project lies in the Midlands of the Lesser Himalaya. The Lesser Himalaya is

made up of highly deformed, thick piles of elastic and carbonate rocks. Two major tectonic

features bound it. The Main Boundary Thrust (about 20 km) along the margin (south) and Main

Central Thrust (about 70 km) in the north of the project site. The project components lie within

Galyang formation, Lakharpata formation and Syangja formation as shown in figure 4-12. The

predominant rock types are gray and light gray slate and shale, carbonaceous slate, gray

dolomite, variegated phyllite and quartzite. Engineering geological map prepared by project is

attached in Appendix-B.

According to regional geological map prepared by Department of Mines and Geology (DMG) in

1987, Galyang formation consists of dark grey shales with black limestones thin calcareous

slate and grey dolomitic limestones, black carbonaceous slates with thin calcareous sandstone

beds, grey to black dolomitic limestones. Syangja formation consists of white milky white, pale

orange, pinkish, or purplish calcareous quartzites and quartzitic limestones with dark grey and

purple shales pinkish calcareous quarzitic beds, grey arkosic sandstones, dark grey and pale

green shales. The geology and geomorphology of the project area is disussed in the following

subsections.



Figure 4-11: Geological Map of Nepal showing Project Area

Source: ranjan.net.np

Figure 4-12: Geological Map of Western Central Nepal

Source: Department of Mines and Geology, Nepal



Figure 4-13: Engineering Geological Map of Reservoir

Source: JICA, 2014

4.1.4.1 Geology of Project Components

a) Reservoir Area

The reservoir area lies within the Galyang Formation, Lakharpata Formation and Syangja

Formation. The predominant rock types are gray and light gray slate and shale, carbonaceours

slate, gray dolomite, variegated phyllite and quartzite. Three formations (litho-units) were

identified within reservoir area, which is described separately here underneath (Source:

Feasibility Study Report of AKSHEP, 2019).

• Gray and light gray slate and shale and carbonaceous slate

This rock unit is mainly exposed at the moderate slope of the dam axis, intake, tunnel

alignment, powerhouse, and most of the reservoir area (from dam axis to the Karadi Khola).

This unit is mainly composed of gray and light gray slate and shale, carbonaceous slate and

inters banding of slate and carbonate bands (gray dolomite). Along the upstream of the Andhi

Khola, from the dam axis to intake thinly bedded dark gray to black slate inter banding with gray

coloured dolomite is dominant. Gray to light gray colored, thinly bedded, fine grained, slate and

shale is dominant along tunnel alignment, surge shaft and penstock alignment (at Guthi

Bhanjyan, Chandanbari Barandada and Blpuk area). This rock unit shows typical weathering

color of light red to light yellow. Weathering is relatively high along tunnel alignment, surge shaft

and penstock alignment than headwork area. Red colored residual soil is common along the

tunnel and the penstock alignment. Regionally the rock exposures dip towards south. However,

the north dipping foliations are also common due to the presence of local fold.

• Dolomite Unit

Dolomite is exposed in the steep peaks and ridges of Nibuwa Kharka along the right bank of

the Andhi Khola (River). This rock unit crosses the Andhi Khola forming narrow valley between

the Karadi Khola and the Chiuri Village section. Lithology of this unit mainly consist of thick to



massive, gray to white coloured, jointed dolomite with thinly laminated slate. The attitude of the

foliation plane near the Karadi Khola is 1650/750, similarly near the Churi is 2150/120. The

outcrop of dolomite is fresh to weathered, medium to strong in nature.

• Red purple Phyllite and pink Quartzite unit

This unit is exposed near the Mohoriya village (South of Waling), upper reaches of the

reservoir. Similarly, same rock type is also exposed along road section of Siddhartha Highway

about 500 m towards the Ramdi Bridge from the Malunga village. Lithology consists of light

gray to white, and pink coloured, medium to thick bedded, medium to coarsed - grained

quartzite is inter-banding with red purple slate and phyllite. The dip direction of this rock unit

varies from 1900 to 2100 with dip amount 600- 700.

b) Dam Site

The dam site is located about 2.5km from Andhimuhan (local market) and this location is more

or less symmetrical river valley of Andhikhola. Geomorphologically, the right bank at the dam

site is about 48° and the left bank is 50° slope. The dam axis at the riverbed comprises large

boulders of conglomerate. No bedrock is exposed at the surface but the bedrock is expected at

few meters depth from the surface. The right bank in this area is composed of conglomerate

whereas the upper section on the right bank is composed of dolomite. The left bank of the dam

site comprises thin overburden of conglomerate and colluviums underlain by bedrock of slate.

At damsite area, Andhikhola flows through the contact zone of dolomite and slate. The river

demarcates the lithological differences between dolomite and slate. Dolomite at the right bank

seems to be highly fractured at the surface. Hence, a landslide has been seen near to the dam

site area. The slate bedrock at the left bank is also found to be highly weathered and weak in

nature.

c) Intake Site

The intake site proposed on the left bank of Andhikhola. Rock is exposed from river level up to

El. 640 m. Rock is fresh to slightly weathered, grayish black, thinly bedded, and fractured to

blocky phyllite. The attitude of foliation planes varies from N36oW- N55oW and 21o-46o W strike

and dip respectively. Joint planes are rough and irregular. The maximum crown face over break

expected at this site is about 10 m. The portal face site is almost perpendicular to strike so that

it is favorable for portal site.

d) Headrace Tunnel

It is located on the left bank of Andhikhola passing through steep topography and crosses the

ridge at an elevation around 1000m where the rock cover of the tunnel is estimated around

350m. The topography of tunnel alignment approaching surge shaft is moderately inclined. No

major instability extending to the tunnel level was encountered. The headrace tunnel will cross

the Andhikhola formation, which is more than 900 m thick consisting of upper member of grey

slates with calcareous band black carboniferous lamina. The lower member consists of black

carboniferous slates with several bands of limestone and dolomitic sand stones (After Sakai, H.

1986). The multiple springs, which are observed along the slopes, reveal that the groundwater

table is relatively high.

e) Surge Shaft

Surge shaft has been proposed near to Zero Kilo. The bedrock exposed near to the road

section comprises fractured, moderately weathered bedrock of slaty phyllite. Few bands of

thick phyllite has also been observed within this location.



f) Penstock Alignment

The rock expected along the penstock alignment is thinly bedded phyllite. The general attitude

along the alignment is N18oW and 20o dip. The rock exposure along the route is scattered and

most of the area is covered with residual soil and partly with colluviums. The thickness of

residual soil as well as colluviums varies from place to place.

g) Powerhouse and Tailrace

The powerhouse is a semi surface type located on the left bank of Kaligandaki River and will be

founded on phyllite. Two boreholes were drilled at the powerhouse and tailrace alignment sites.

The phyllite along left bank of Kaligandaki River is massive to blocky and partly fractured. Two

sets of joints are measured. The joint planes are rough, irregular and slightly altered. The depth

of overburden at the hill side edge of terrace just below the hill slope is about 13m. The terrace

deposit is composed of cohesion less, semi consolidated and rounded to sub rounded boulders

of quartzite and gneiss mixed with sandy and silty matrix.

h) Access Road

The proposed 7.545 km access road lies on Galyang formation which consists of dark grey

shale with black limestone thin calcareous slate and grey dolomitic limestone, black

carbonaceous slates with thin calcareous sandstone beds, grey to black dolomitic limestone.

4.1.4.2 Soil Types of Project Area

a) Residual Soil

Most of the residual soil is developed at the top of the flat river terraces. In some part of the

project area, the residual soil overlies the highly weathered rock present along headrace tunnel

and penstock alignment, surge tank and powerhouse site. The thickness of residual soil

developed varies from 5 m to 25 m. The sub-tropical climatic conditions intensify the

development of residual soil in the project area.

b) Terrace Deposits

Alluvial River terrace deposits are well developed between the Illunga villages to the Karadi

Khola. Similarly, terraces are also present in the upper reaches of reservoir between the

section Churi and the Walling along the banks of Andhikhola. These deposits composed of

partly compacted to loose, sub angular to rounded gravel and boulder metasandstone,

quartzite, dolomite, mixed with silty, sandy and calcareous matrix.

c) Colluvium Soil

The colluvium deposit is present on moderate to steep slopes on the both banks of Andhikhola.

The colluvium deposit is composed of boulder mixed soil. The main constituents of the

colluvium deposit are angular to sub angular fragments of slate, dolomite, quartzite, phyllite and

shale in silty and clayey matrix. The thickness varies from less than 1m to 5m or more from

place to place depending on the topography of the area.

d) Recent River Deposits

These deposits are found along Andhikhola and are composed of sub rounded to rounded

fragments to boulders of metasandstone, quartzitic dolomite, phyllite, slate, shale etc. and

associated with sandy, silty materials and almost clean pebbly sand.

4.1.4.3 Geomorphology of Reservoir Area

Andhikhola River flows east to west in the wide V-shaped valley within the project area. The

river gradient is medium to low in the project area. In some part such as downstream of the

Chiuri, the river passes through narrow valley forming gorge. Both North and South faces

slopes are generally covered by colluvium deposits and alluvial terrace, which are mostly

cultivated. Bed rocks are exposed only in the narrow section of the valley. Many tributaries of



Andhikhola are more or less perpendicular to it and form alluvial fans. These tributaries are

deeply incised and have parallel to sub-parallel drainage patterns. The river shows distinct cut

bank (erosional) and depositional bank within the project area.

Local people use the alluvial terraces along the depositional bank of the Andhikhola for

cultivation. Besides the river terraces, the alluvial deposits are found as the alluvial fans. The

colluvial deposit is found on the hill slopes on both banks of the Andhikhola. The colluvial

deposits are the result of landslide and gully erosion are common along the riverbank. The

alluvial and colluvial deposits constitute about 80-90% of the reservoir area. The section of river

valley is comparatively appears to be thin near the Gayalang bazar than other section.

4.1.4.4 Geophysical investigation

An Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) survey was carried out in different location of

proposed hydraulic structural components. Findings from the interpretation of ERT surveys are

summarized as follows. Interpretive diagram of ERT are shown in Appendix-B. (Source:

Updated Feasibility Study report of AKSHEP, 2019).

At Damsite

At dam site, ERT profile shows that the left bank of Andhikhola is composed of weak and

compacted mass. The right bank in this dam axis is composed of 15-20m thick overburden

along with compact mass. The right bank is composed of compacted mass and bedrock of

dolomite. The left bank is composed of overburden, compact mass and bedrock of slate.

Resistivity values have also suggested that Andhikhola flows through the lithological boundary

of dolomite and slate.

Along Right bank

ERT profile along right bank of headwork shows that the upper layer comprises overburden

upto 8-10m from the existing ground surface. The middle layer comprises saturated fractured

bedrock and the lower layer is of dolomite. The depth of this dolomite bedrock has been

expected to find at the depth of 10-15m from the surface.

Along Left Bank

ERT profile along left bank shows that the upper layer comprises overburden (alluvium) upto

20m from the existing ground surface and compact mass. The middle layer in this interpretative

section has been expected to be of slate bedrock. The lower layer seen at the middle section of

this profile has been expected to be of sound bedrock, possibly of dolomitic slate.

Along Inlet Portal

ERT has shown four distinct layers along the slope of inlet portal. The top 8.0m thick layer

comprises overburden. This is probably the residual soil and fractured remain of bedrock at

some part. The second layer below the overburden layer is of bedrock of Phyllite and slate. The

third layer with comparatively high resistivity value suggests that this layer could be of dolomite

or dolomitic slate. The lowermost layer with low resistivity value suggests that this layer could

be of phyllite or slate bedrock

Across the Surge Shaft

ERT profile across the surge shaft shows two layer. First upper layer consists of saturated

overburden of variable thickness ranges from 3-5 m, second layer of this profile runs through 30

m to 70 m, and it contains sound bedrock of phyllite and slate. The depth of this layer extends



from 5 to 20 m below the surface. Similarly, another layer is present which consists of highly

weathered and fractured rock of phyllite and it extends up to depth 30 m from the surface.

Along Headrace Tunnel and the penstock alignment crossing with surge shaft

Upper Layer of this profile contains overburden material, which is dry, and contains residual soil

deposits. The depth of this overburden ranges from 5-10 m. Second layer of this profile consists

of high resistive bedrock and extends below the depth of 30 m from the surface. This bedrock is

probably fresh, non-fractured slate. At center part of the profile, saturated highly fractured rock

is present which may be weathered phyllite, where some water source may present. The depth

of the layer extends from 30 -55 m from the surface. Similarly, a highly fractured, weathered

phyllite is present from chainage 160 -300 m and extends below depth 1-30 m from surface.

About 60 m left from Surge shaft along the slope

The upper layer of the profile consists of dry overburden that represent the residual soil

deposits. The depth of this overburden is varies from 3-5m from the surface. Similarly,

saturated highly fractured bedrock (phyllite) is also present and this layer extends up to depth of

15 m from the surface.

Along the powerhouse

ERT profile along the powerhouse shows that upper layer contains colluviums deposits. This

layer is found up to depth of 7 m from the surface. The second layer consists of highly resistive

very sound bedrock that is probably fresh and unweathered slate. This layer extended from 7 m

to 54 m from surface.

About 730 m downstream from surge shaft along the penstock alignment

ERT profile shows that the first upper layer composed of overburden deposits, which extends

from chainage 0 to 210m. The thickness of overburden ranges from 1 m to 2 m. This

overburden is resembled as residual soil. Below the overburden deposits, highly fractured,

jointed, weathered partly saturated, fractured rock phyllite and slate is present up to depth 50 m

Figure 4-14: Location map of ERT survey

Source: Google Earth



Electrical Resistivity Tomogram (ERT) and Lithological interpretation of Galyang Bazaar

150.00m long profile was mapped out along the slope due north of Galyang Bazaar chowk.

This North-facing slope has shown three layers within the mapped out zone. The top layer

comprises overburden or dry fractured bedrock, which is around 5-8m thick throughout the

profile. The second layer with low resisitivity value suggests that this is the saturated bedrock.

The thickness of this saturated bedrock is around 10m. The lowermost layer in this profile

comprises sound bedrock, which is at 15.00m from the existing ground surface.

Another 300.00m long profile was mapped out along the South facing slope, starts from the

petrol pump and ends at the paddy field downslope shows four layers within the mapped out

zone. The upper layer comprises overburden throughout the profile. Thickness of this

overburden is less than 5m on the slopy area whereas 5-8m at the foothills and flat area. This

overburden is the result of weathering of bedrock due to long exposure to the atmosphere. The

second layer below the overburden is of sound bedrock as suggested by comparatively high

resistivity. The third layer with low resistivity suggests the saturated bedrock. The lowermost

fourth layer seen on the right corner only is of sound bedrock .ERT diagram is presenting in

Appendix-B.

(a)

Source:Department of Survey and GIS Analysis



(b)

Figure 4-15: (a) Geological and (b) Soil Type Map of PAA


4.1.4.5 Watershed Area

The geological map of watershed shows the area is distributed over Galyang, Kushma,

Lakharpata, Naudanda, Sangram, Seti and Syangja formations. The Lakharpata Formation

includes fine grained, light blue, grey limestone and dolomites with thin intercalation of grey

shales, white, pink dolomitic limestones, purple quartzites and green shales at the top. And

Naudada formation includes white fine to medium grained quartzite with green phylite.

Figure 4-16: Geological Map of Watershed




Figure 4-17: Soil Type Map of Watershed


4.1.4.6 Landslide Hazard Analysis

The landslide hazard map has been prepared based on nine different thematic parameters that

directly contribute in landslide occurrence and sediment production. These controlling

parameters well describe topographical, geological, hydrological, and anthropogenic

characteristics of the study area. The parameters that are considered in preparing landslide

hazard map are: Slope angle, Slope aspect, Slope shape, Lithology, Soil thickness, Erosion

potentiality, Drainage density, Existing landslide density, and Distance from newly constructed

roads.

A portion of Andhi Khola watershed has been taken for present study. There are some active

landslides at present, the area comprises several marks of old landslides. The study area

covers an area of about 78.56 sq. km., where 77 small to large landslides are mapped. There

are different types of landslides, in which shallow slides and debris flows occurred on the

sloping terrain of right bank of Andhi Khola. A landslide hazard map is prepared by considering

above mentioned nine parametric information in ArcGIS environment. Individual rating of each

parametric classes are overlaid by sum through raster calculator to obtain an integrated hazard

map. The obtained map is reclassified into three classes: low, moderate, and high hazard

respectively. The landslide hazard map demonstrates spatial distribution of different zones to

landslide susceptibility. About 12% of the study area shows high hazard that is mainly

distributed on the right bank of Andhi Khola.



Figure 4-18: Landslide Hazard Map of Andhikhola Reservoir


4.1.5 Seismology

Nepal is located along the active Main Himalayan Thrust arc, where the sub-ducting Indian

plate and the overriding Eurasian plate interact. The presence of three main fault line with in

country: the main central trust (MCT), the main boundary fault (MBF) and the Himalaya frontal

fault (HFF) are causes of earthquake in Nepal. As a result, Nepal is very active seismically.

There have been a number of devastating earthquakes over the past few decades, which have

caused the substantial damage of life and property. Ever since the first recorded earthquake of

1225 AD, Nepal has experienced a major earthquake in every few generations. Earthquake of

April 25, 2015 is the recent evident of such incidents.

Nepal Country Report (UNDP 2015) has identified 92 active fault within the country. Maximum

magnitude of earthquake that these active faults are able to generate has also been identified

according to the location of fault. Along the higher Himalaya tectonic area, faults can generate

maximum magnitude of 7 to 7.5, those along MCT 7.5 to 7.6, the mid-mountain 6.5 to 6.9, the

MBT 7 to 8 and HFF 6.5 to 7.5 Richter scale earthquake.

Seismic activities in proposed project area have been studied from past-recorded earthquake

and seismic hazard map of Nepal developed by Department of Mines and Geology. From

seismic hazard map of Nepal Figure 4-16 peak ground acceleration (PGA) on project area is

around 0.38g. All the components of project will be design incorporating the earthquake safety

factor and considering others potential risk in the project area.The project has proposed seismic

design coefficient as 0.6 for the design of structures. The seismicity assessment report of the

project area is attached in Annex B.



Figure 4-19: Seismic Hazard Map of Nepal showing the Project Site

Source: UNDP/UNCHS (Habitat, 1994)

4.1.6 Air Quality

As the project area lies along the Siddhartha highway and some part in the rural setting, the

pollution levels are medium along the settlement such as Mathillo Galyang, Tallo Galyang,

Chiuri, Jholunge etc. The main source of air pollution is due to the vehicular moment along the

Siddhartha highway, earthern road along the reservoir area and construction activities like road,

buildings, etc. Other sources of air pollution are fugitive dust particles created by the movement

of public vehicles along the access road to the settlements and vehicular emissions. The overall

status of air quality at the project area is found to be good and within the range of acceptable

limits. In comparison to the powerhouse site, the air quality of dam site is better off. As the

powerhouse site is nearer to the highway, the air quality parameters are observed to be on

higher side than that of dam site as shown in the following table.

Table 4-4: Air Quality of Project Area

S. N. Test Parameters

(µg/Nm3) NAAQS

Dam Site (kaligandaki-7, Sital)

Powerhouse Site (near Ratamate Dimik,

Galyang)

1 PM10 120 14 18

2 PM2.5 40 3 5

3 TSPM 230 36 64

4 Lead 0.5 (A) <0.002 <0.002

5 SO2 70 <0.02 <0.02

6 NOX 40 0.05 0.03

7 Benzene 5 (A) <0.2 <0.2

8 Ozone 157 8 17

9 CO % <1.0 <1.0 <1.0

Ambient Air Temperature 240C at 13:20 280C at 14:20

Sampling date 2019-10-28 to 2019-10-29

2019-10-29 to 2019-10-30

Location Latitude: 27.9746 Longitude: 83.59718

Latitude: 27.93099 Longitude: 83.68257

Source: Field/Lab Analysis Report, 2019



The above table shows that all tested parameters related air such as PM10, PM2.5 and TSPM as

well as gaseous and metal contaminants such as lead, SO2, NOx are found within the normal

range, both in powerhouse and dam site of the AKSHEP. These tested parameter are within

the range as recommended by National Ambient Air Quality Standards.

4.1.7 Noise Quality

Dam Site: At dam site, the noise level equivalent parameters were found in slightly higher

range for day time than recommended by National Ambient Noise Quality Standard. The

maximum and minimum noise pressure levels are recorded as 99 and 54.5 dBA respectively.

The pressure level tested on different time for the dam site are shown in Table 4.5.

Powerhouse Site: At powerhouse site, the noise level equivalent parameters were found in

slightly higher range for nighttime than recommended by National Ambient Noise Quality

Standard in powerhouse site. The maximum and minimum noise pressure levels were recorded

as 85.1 and 42.3 dBA respectively for the Powerhouse site. The pressure level tested on

different time for the powerhouse site are shown in Table 4-5.

Table 4-5: Noise Level of Project Area

S.

N.

Time Zone Test Parameters Range

Lmax Lmin Leq L5 L10 L50 L90 L95

Dam Site, Matichaur

1. 11:30 99.0 58.4 67.4 78.2 70.4 66.7 61.2 60.3 Slightly High

2. 15:30 77.4 55.8 61.4 65.0 61.4 61.0 57.0 56.7 Normal

3. 21:30 (Night) 70.6 60.3 62.7 65.5 64.8 61.7 60.8 60.7 Slightly High



6. 08:30 69.6 63.3 64.9 67.1 65.5 64.4 63.7 63.6 Slightly High

Powerhouse Site

Ratamate,

7 14:30 85.1 43.7 55.8 71.2 65.4 54.2 48.8 47.6 Normal

8 18:30 85.1 48.3 57.3 75.2 63.7 58.4 49.0 48.8 Normal

9 22:30 (Night) 75.2 46.2 55.0 70.7 67.0 53.0 49.1 48.7 Normal

10 01:30 (Night) 69.8 42.3 55.2 64.1 61.4 55.2 48.2 46.4 Slightly High

11 04:30 (Night) 70.2 42.8 56.0 67.6 65.7 55.4 49.1 46.1 Slightly High

12 08:30 70.2 42.8 55.5 66.2 63.2 54.8 48.6 46.2 Normal

NNQS for Day-Time

Exposure for Mixed

Residential Area

63

NNQS for Night-Time

Exposure for Mixed

Residential Area

55

Source: Field Study Report, 2019

High Range But Within OSHA TLV Guideline Value for Industrial Workplace Area

NNQS, Day - National Noise Quality Standard for Day-time Exposure

NNQS, Night - National Noise Quality Standard for Night-time Exposure

4.1.8 Water Quality

Water quality of the Andhikhola was observed be polluted along the stretch of the river near

settlement viz; Tallo Galyang, Jholunge and Waling Bazaar due to dumping of the HH garbage

in the river. Water quality of Andhikhola after laboratory analysis which includes pH values,

turbidity, total dissolved solid, suspended solid, total alkalinity, total hardness, chemicals



present, etc. is presented in the following table 4-6. At dam site, turbidity is high as per NDWQS

guideline with few iron content. Similarly, at powerhouse site turbidity and iron are high as per

NDWQS limits with presence of higher suspended soils and traces of manganese content. At

both site, the water is contaminated with E. coli and Coliform.

Table 4-6 Water Quality Table

Parameters Units Standards Dam

site Powerhouse

Site Remark

s WHO NDWQS

PHYSICAL

Color Hazen 15 5 (15) <5.0 <5.0

Turbidity NTU 5 5 (10) 19.00 615

Total Suspended Solids

mg/l - - 12.00 562.00

Total Dissolved Solids mg/l 1000 1000 112.00 138.00

Conductivity µS/cm - 1500 183.00 227.00

pH - 6.5 - 8.5 6.5-8.5* 7.40 7.50

Lab Temperature 0C - - 23.90 24.40

Field Temperature 0C - - 17.20 17.50

CHEMICAL

BOD mg/l - - 1.9 3

COD mg/l - - 5 8

Dissolved Oxygen mg/l - - 8.6 8.4

Total Hardness mg/l as CaCO3

500 500 100 116

Total Alkalinity mg/l as CaCO3

500 - 90 96

Chloride mg/l 250 250 3 2

Ammonia mg/l 1.5 1.5 0.15 0.18

Nitrate mg/l 50 50 0.86 1.7

Sulphate mg/l - 250

(max) <5.0 70.8

Iron mg/l 0.3 0.3 (3) 0.63 8.3

Manganese mg/l 0.5 0.2 0.04 0.2

Arsenic mg/l 0.01 0.05 <0.005 <0.005

Copper mg/l 2 1 <0.01 <0.01

Nickel mg/l 0.02 - <0.01 <0.01

Zinc mg/l - 3 0.04 0.51

Mercury mg/l 0.001 0.001 <0.001 <0.001

Cadmium mg/l 0.003 0.003 <0.003 <0.003

Lead mg/l 0.01 0.01 <0.01 <0.01

Sodium(FE) mg/l - - 3.5 4.2

Potassium(FE) mg/l - - 0.24 3.4

BIOLOGICAL

Total Coliform CFU/100ml Nil Nil >300 >300

E. coli CFU/100ml Nil Nil 300 4

Source: Field/Lab Analysis Report of AKHEP, 2019

4.1.9 Watershed Conditions and Drainage Patterns

Drainage system also known as river system are the patterns formed by the streams, rivers and

lakes in a particular drainage basin. They are governed by the topography of the land, whether

hard or soft rocks and the gradient of the land dominate a particular region. As per configuration

of the channels, drainage system found in this area is accordant drainage pattern. In accordant

drainage pattern, dendritic drainage pattern (pertaining to a tree) is the most common form of



drainage system in the project area. Andhikhola originates from Panchamul Lekh at an

elevation of about 2100 masl in the north.

The tributaries of Andhikhola are Bhagari khola, Bimrathe khola, Saradi khola, Ranguwa khola,

Seti khola, Baidi khola, Badh khola, Rindi khola, Darau khola, Lubdi khola, Chyandi khola,

Armadi khola, Baya khola and Phaudi khola. Since the lower part is composed of deep river

valleys and steep Mountain slopes, the rivulets are very short and steep with small size of basin

area. The drainage pattern of the Andhikhola in the catchment area of the proposed project is

shown in the following figure.

Figure 4-20: Drainage Pattern of Catchment Area

Source: Department of Survey/GIS Analysia

4.1.10 Soil Erosion and Land Stability

Soil erosion and landslides are main problems in country like Nepal where topography is steep

and geology is young and fragile. The overall stability of slope depends on the slope angle and

geological composition making the slope. High intensity rainfall, slope aspect, vegetation cover,

and climatic condition of the area are other governing factors for soil erosion and landslides.

Slope map of catchment area shows the dominancy of the slope ranging from 15º to 30º. Land

having slope angle ranging from 0º to 15º are confined on either side of Andhikhola at valley.

Reservoir area and its periphary have the dominancy of colluvium type of soil. The appearance

of streambed, sediment concentration at valley floor of river, alluvium deposition at bank of hill



slope and high concentration of debris flows during rainy season shows that the catchment

area of Andhikhola has high potential of soil erosion and landslide.

All the exposed components such as dam site, intake site, reservoir site, tailrace outlet site, etc.

were study during field visit. During the field study, major landslides at upstream of dam site

were observed (Picture 4.2 .a and 4.2 .b). These landslides were in inactive stage during the

time of field study. Other many small active landslides were also observed in the surrounding

mountain slopes within the reservoir area and PAAs. At some section small patch of landslides

were observed due to the construction of road.

(a) (b)

(c) (d)

Picture 4-2: (a), (b) Landslide at u/s of dam site and (c), (d) Landslides within catchment of

reservoir area

(Source: Field Visit 2019 )

At dam site, both right and left bank of river has slope greater than 45º. The surface was

covered with colluvium soil. An intake of tunnel has been proposed on the left bank of the

Andhikhola and it seem to be stable with moderately steep rock cliff. The proposed powerhouse

site is located on the left bank of the Kaligandaki River on its alluvial terrace and the site is

seems to be stable. The bank of streams along Andhikhola seems to be quite stable since the

minor or insignificant scale of bank erosion was observed

Road Construction Deposition



4.1.11 Hydrology a. Stream Flow

Andhikhola is totally rain fed and Perennial River, originating from the Mahabharat range, which

is also one of the major tributary of the Kaligandaki River. The drainage area of the Andhikhola

is 475 km2 at the confluence with Kaligandaki River. The altitudinal variation is from 500 m at

the confluence with Kaligandaki River to 2482 m over a distance of 69 km along the

Andhikhola. The tributaries of Andhikhola are Bhagari khola, Bimrathe khola, Saradi khola,

Ranguwa khola, Seti khola, Baidi khola, Badh khola, Rindi khola, Darau khola, Lubdi khola,

Chyandi khola, Armadi khola, Baya khola and Phaudi khola.

Watershed of the proposed AKSHEP is showed in Figure 4.17. The average basin precipitation

based on the Isohyetal map is 3275.9 mm. The long term monthly generated data are given in

the Table 4.7. The long-term average flow at the dam site has been estimated as 32.1 m3/s.

The monthly flow pattern is shown in Figure 4.18 (Source: Feasibility Study Report of AKSHEP,

2019)

Table 4-7: Generated long-term monthly flow data of Andhikhola at dam site of AKSHEP

Year Jan. Feb. Mar. Apr. May Jun. Jul. Aug. Sep. Oct. Nov. Dec. Year

1964 3.7 3.0 2.6 3.2 4.7 13.4 114.5 138.4 115.5 65.6 10.3 6.4 40.1

1965 4.8 3.5 2.7 3.0 1.5 26.7 71.0 217.1 54.4 17.5 8.9 4.7 34.6

1966 4.1 4.5 3.2 2.6 3.2 20.5 70.6 110.5 68.9 15.0 7.8 4.8 26.3

1967 4.8 3.7 3.4 3.2 3.4 35.1 92.7 66.4 47.0 16.6 9.3 6.3 24.3

1968 5.6 4.3 3.7 2.8 3.5 37.7 105.6 48.4 44.1 47.0 11.0 7.1 26.7

1969 4.8 3.8 3.7 2.9 6.3 14.6 63.5 49.6 51.1 16.6 8.0 5.3 19.2

1970 4.5 3.8 3.1 2.8 3.2 82.9 144.5 112.8 44.8 14.8 6.9 4.4 35.7

1971 3.5 2.9 2.8 5.0 11.6 47.9 63.7 97.1 40.3 35.3 14.0 7.6 27.6

1972 5.4 5.3 4.1 3.3 2.7 26.4 114.8 84.7 67.2 14.7 8.3 5.1 28.5

1973 4.8 3.6 3.3 2.1 8.7 53.6 71.7 89.2 98.9 90.0 15.1 7.5 37.4

1974 5.4 3.8 2.8 3.2 7.8 22.3 152.4 99.9 69.1 21.5 9.8 5.9 33.6

1975 4.9 4.2 3.2 3.0 9.3 63.4 136.6 102.9 124.7 45.3 10.7 5.9 42.8

1976 4.3 3.3 2.1 1.9 8.2 57.1 102.9 102.9 57.2 20.3 11.9 6.5 31.5

1977 5.0 3.9 2.7 6.0 10.0 20.5 54.9 139.5 32.9 20.3 9.6 5.3 25.9

1978 4.3 3.6 3.3 3.3 12.9 55.3 79.2 76.1 44.8 21.8 10.4 9.5 27.0

1979 5.0 5.1 4.3 3.8 2.9 18.7 67.8 93.4 47.9 20.9 8.5 6.0 23.7

1980 4.1 3.2 2.8 1.7 8.0 36.8 73.0 60.9 67.0 19.6 9.5 6.1 24.4

1981 4.9 3.9 3.0 5.0 13.0 15.9 85.2 100.9 68.9 15.9 7.2 4.8 27.4

1982 3.9 3.5 3.0 3.2 2.0 26.3 107.9 108.8 66.5 15.1 10.2 3.8 29.5

1983 6.0 5.3 4.1 3.6 11.5 9.1 69.5 49.4 83.0 32.8 8.9 6.3 24.1

1984 5.9 4.3 3.2 2.3 4.2 46.4 124.7 62.7 76.6 15.6 8.1 4.7 29.9

1985 3.8 3.0 1.9 1.2 5.2 19.0 106.9 54.8 86.7 27.2 13.4 8.6 27.6

1986 6.3 5.2 3.7 3.2 7.2 51.8 82.7 52.7 124.7 23.8 10.1 7.3 31.6

1987 4.2 3.1 2.6 1.7 2.8 13.4 104.9 93.7 39.0 20.1 10.3 6.5 25.2

1988 4.7 3.9 3.3 3.3 5.0 22.8 107.9 96.4 70.1 12.0 5.2 3.3 28.2

1989 3.9 1.6 1.3 0.4 6.2 20.6 110.8 104.9 56.0 19.4 9.9 6.7 28.5

1990 4.8 4.7 5.2 3.2 5.9 41.6 152.4 84.3 41.2 18.7 8.4 5.2 31.3

1991 4.6 3.2 3.0 1.7 4.2 27.4 153.4 118.7 78.4 39.3 12.8 9.1 38.0

1992 4.5 3.8 2.9 3.3 7.6 35.8 108.3 105.0 64.9 40.8 9.6 6.7 32.8

1993 4.6 3.7 3.0 3.5 7.8 35.5 109.8 104.5 92.5 20.7 9.7 5.7 33.4

1994 4.5 4.0 3.2 2.9 8.7 36.7 115.8 96.4 83.6 18.4 10.0 5.8 32.5

1995 4.7 4.1 3.2 3.0 7.1 38.0 154.0 97.8 63.4 29.0 19.8 6.2 35.9



Year Jan. Feb. Mar. Apr. May Jun. Jul. Aug. Sep. Oct. Nov. Dec. Year

1996 4.2 5.0 3.2 2.8 7.7 36.7 117.3 98.5 94.3 26.3 9.3 5.7 34.3

1997 4.3 3.8 3.1 3.7 7.1 35.8 124.5 98.2 63.0 27.0 10.4 9.4 32.5

1998 4.8 3.8 3.5 3.4 7.8 36.1 121.3 112.1 71.3 33.1 9.4 5.7 34.4

1999 4.7 3.7 2.9 2.7 9.5 36.2 128.3 112.0 86.1 42.9 9.3 5.7 37.0

2000 4.7 3.8 3.1 3.5 8.4 36.6 140.2 104.7 94.7 22.9 9.3 5.7 36.5

2001 4.8 3.8 3.1 3.0 8.9 37.0 128.5 116.1 86.5 27.6 9.3 5.8 36.2

2002 4.5 4.0 3.2 3.6 8.0 36.1 158.9 97.9 68.2 27.4 13.6 6.7 36.0

2003 4.4 4.2 3.4 3.7 7.5 36.1 133.1 93.3 84.6 14.0 9.4 6.6 33.4

2004 4.6 3.7 3.1 3.8 7.2 35.2 124.1 100.6 87.7 36.8 9.9 5.7 35.2

2005 4.3 3.8 3.3 3.1 7.8 34.8 111.6 90.7 63.8 47.5 9.3 5.8 32.1

2006 4.8 3.7 3.5 3.8 8.4 35.2 106.6 96.6 81.0 32.1 9.7 6.6 32.7

2007 4.8 5.0 3.4 3.6 6.8 36.4 129.4 98.6 132.9 19.5 9.5 5.9 38.0

2008 4.8 3.7 3.5 3.2 7.7 35.6 105.5 94.1 75.5 22.0 9.3 5.8 30.9

2009 4.8 3.7 3.0 3.0 8.2 35.8 120.0 113.8 61.5 91.7 9.3 5.7 38.4

2010 4.8 4.0 3.1 3.3 8.2 35.0 136.5 103.5 86.3 25.5 9.8 6.4 35.5

2011 4.8 3.9 3.2 3.5 10.1 36.8 153.8 110.4 116.4 21.3 12.8 5.7 40.2

2012 4.7 4.5 3.2 3.7 7.2 35.8 122.3 93.9 81.0 29.8 9.3 5.8 33.4

2013 4.7 4.4 3.3 3.7 7.8 36.6 120.0 102.8 83.2 32.7 9.3 5.8 34.5

2014 4.6 4.0 3.5 3.2 8.0 35.2 126.3 107.7 78.1 46.5 9.3 6.3 36.1

2015 4.4 3.9 3.8 3.1 8.2 35.5 130.4 95.6 83.4 42.4 9.4 5.7 35.5

2016 4.8 3.7 3.2 2.7 7.3 34.5 116.9 81.4 79.9 31.0 9.3 5.7 31.7

Average 4.7 3.9 3.2 3.1 7.1 34.5 111.9 97.0 74.2 29.3 10.0 6.1 32.1

Max 6.3 5.3 5.2 6.0 13.0 82.9 158.9 217.1 132.9 91.7 19.8 9.5

Min 3.5 1.6 1.3 0.4 1.5 9.1 54.9 48.4 32.9 12.0 5.2 3.3 Source: Feasibility Study Report, ASHEP 2019

Figure 4-21: Long-term Mean Monthly Flow Pattern of Andhikhola at Dam Site

Source: Feasibility Study Report, ASHEP 2019

At present condition, water of Andhikhola is used by existing hydropower and irrigation facilities.

Hence, within the section from headwork of existing Andhikhola HEP to the confluence of

Kaligangaki River and Andhikhola river, downstream release water from existing HEP and

water from other tributaries is available. Other tributary like Manke Khola is also available

within the section. Mean monthly flow of water available at Kaligandaki River and Andhikhola is

shown in table 4-8



Table 4-8:Discharge Available at Kaligandaki River and Andhikhola River

SN Month

Mean Monthly flow at Dam site of

Kaligandaki ‘A’ HEP*

(m3/sec)

Mean Monthly flow at

Downstream of existing

Andhikhola HEP (m3/sec)**

Mean Monthly flow available at proposed

dam site (m3/sec)***

Mean Monthly flow of

Kalidandaki River at proposed

Powerhouse Site (m3/sec)

1 January 64 0.58 0.885 98.82

2 February 57 0.58 0.745 87.17

3 March 58 0.58 0.58 82.56

4 April 74 0.58 0.58 91.64

5 May 110 6.355 6.355 135.57

6 June 306 33.12 33.12 394.34

7 July 858 70.66 107.03 1156.77

8 August 924 79.07 92.13 1372.07

9 September 619 54.46 69.33 852.64

10 October 283 24.985 24.985 377.98

11 November 129 7.245 7.245 183.79

12 December 83 1.545 1.56 122.33

Source: AKSHEP, 2019

Note: * Based on Data from 2002 to 2009

** Calculated after reduction of water uses by existing hudropower at dam site of existing HEP

*** Calculation based on hydrology data of proposed storage HEP, water used by existing

hydropower and downstream release water from headwork of existing Andhikhola HEP. These

values are present contribution of Andhikhola to Kaligandaki ‘A’ HEP

b. Flood Hydrology

Probable Maximum Flood (PMF) has been derived from a regional relationship between PMF

and drainage area developed by the Kaligandaki. The estimated PMF at the dam site and

powerhouse are 4,800m3/s and 18,500m3/s respectively. Cofferdams will be designed to resist

flood events with a recurrence period of 1 in 20 years. Since this is a high dam project, the

spillway will be designed for discharge of flood of 1 in 10,000 year return period. Flood

frequency estimates for Andhikhola at damsite and powerhouse site is shown in table below.

Table 4-9: Flood Frequency estimates for Andhikhola at damsite and powerhouse site

SN Return Period (Year)

Discharge at damsite (m3/s)

Discharge at powerhouse site (m3/s)

1 2 525 3800

2 5 764 4980

3 10 928 5790

4 20 1090 6600

5 50 1300 7680

6 100 1470 8510

7 200 1640 9370

8 500 1870 10600

9 1000 2050 11500

10 10000 2700 14800


4.1.12 Sedimentology

All reservoirs formed by dams on natural watercourses are subjected to some degree of

sedimentation. Provisions should be made for sufficient sediment storage in the reservoir at the

time of design so as not to impair the reservoir functions during the useful life of the project or

during the period of economic analysis.



The sediment analyses done during the pre-feasibility study of the proposed Andhikhola

Storage Hydroelectric Project had adopted a value of 60 million cubic meter as the total dead

storage volume in the Andhikhola Reservoir, giving a siltation rate of 2526 m3/km2/yr, which is

primarily based on observed sediment data during the period from mid-June to early October

1995.

The sediment analyses done in 1997, 1998 and 1999 had estimated total sediment load of

about 0.39, 2.15 and 1.41 M tons giving a siltation rate of 600, 3224 and 2118 m3/km2/yr

respectively.

The sediment data collected during this Updated Feasibility Study shows that the total

suspended sediment load is about 0.30 Tonnes/yr. By considering bed load as 15% of

suspended sediment load, the total sediment load is about 0.34 Tonnes/yr.

4.1.13 Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF)

Since the Andhikhola is a rain fed river and originates below elevation of 2100 m, no study of

Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) and associated impact due to GLOF is required for the

proposed project.

4.1.14 Existing Water users

The major upstream and downstream water users include hydropower and irrigation projects.

The existing Andhikhola HEP (9.4 MW) owned by Butwal Power Company (BPC) and existing

irrigation system associated with this hydropower project lies at upstream of dam. Kaligandaki

A HEP (144 MW) is located in downstream of the proposed dam. A number of projects are

planned in the downstream of powerhouse of the proposed AKSHEP. Existing projects in

upstream and downstream of the project dam site are discussed in this section.

4.1.14.1 Upstream of Dam

1. Andhikhola HEP (9.4 MW)

Andhikhola Hydropower Project of BPC is located about 600 m north-east from Tallo Galyang

Bazaar of Galyang Municipality. The average annual energy generated by this project is about

70.73 GWh in a normal year. The design discharge of plant is 4.87m3/s. The water use by

Andhikhola HEP for generation in 12 months as per PPA is shown in Table 4-10

Table 4-10: Water use for generation by existing Andhikhola HEP

Month No. of

Days

Discharge of

Andhikhola (m3/s)

Discharge for

generation (m3/s)

Released Discharge

(m3/s)

Baishakh 31 4.14 3.59 0.55

Jestha 31 17.00 4.87 12.13

Ashad 31 58.98 4.87 54.11

Shrawan 32 92.08 4.87 87.21

Bhadra 31 75.80 4.87 70.93

Ashwin 30 42.86 4.87 37.99

Kartik 30 16.85 4.87 11.98

Mangsir 30 7.38 4.87 2.51

Poush 29 4.79 4.21 0.58

Magh 29 4.00 3.42 0.58

Falgun 30 3.47 2.89 0.58

Chaitra 31 2.93 2.35 0.58

Source: Andhikhola HEP (9.4MW) of BPC, Galyang Municpality



2. Irrigation Scheme operated by AKWUA

The existing Andhikhola Hydroelectric Project diverts water not only to generate electricity but

also to provide water for irrigation facility. The irrigation scheme acquires water from Andhikhola

river through headrace tunnel to the shaft site from where water is diverted to open canal for

irrigation purpose. The irrigation system provides irrigation facility for a total land area of 500ha

in Syangja and Palpa district. Water user’s organization –Andhikhola Water User Association

(AKWUA), has been formed for the regular operation and management of the irrigation system.

The water use by Irrigation facility in 12 months as per agreement of BPC and AKWUA is

shown in Table 4-11

Table 4-11: Water used by existing Irrigation System

Months Baishak Jestha Ashad Shrawan Bhadra Ashwin

Discharge (lit./sec) 300 300 688 688 688 688

Months Kartik Mangsir Poush Magh Falgun Chaitra

Discharge (lit./sec) 688 300 300 300 300 300

Source: AKWUA

4.1.14.2 Downstream of Proposed Dam

1. Kaligandaki A HEP (144 MW)

Kaligandaki A HEP of NEA is located in downstream of proposed dam which is about 2.7 km

along the stretch of river from the dam axis. Dam site of the Kaligandaki A HEP is just about

200m downstream from the confluence of Kaligandaki river and Andhikhola, so both the rivers

have contribution in generating energy from Kaligandaki A HEP. Kaligandaki river has major

contribution wheareas Andhikhola has very minimum contribution in generating electricity.

2. Gandak Irrigation Project

Gandak irrigation project lies in the downstream of the proposed AKSHEP powerhouse. The

length of barrage of this project is 739 m, which is located across Narayani River in Nepal-India

boundary. This project irrigates about 46,900 ha land in Nawalparasi, Parsa, Bara and

Rautahat districts.

3. Gandak HEP (15 MW)

Gandak HEP, located at Suryapura of Nawalparasi, is a canal drop low head (6.09m) plant

operating in main western canal of Gandak barrage. This project uses water diverted from

Narayani River by Gandak irrigation project to generated electricity. The rated discharge of this

project is 103.84 m3/s. This project is located in downstream of the proposed AKSHEP

powerhouse.

4.1.15 Physical Infrastructures

Regarding the infrastructures in project area, there are number of bridges (Motorable bridges,

Trail bridges), water supply reservoir tanks, and roads (paved and unpaved). There are two

motorable bridges and thirteen number of trail bridges within the proposed reservoir area.

Similarly, IPP owned Andhikhola HEP with capacity of 9.4 MW, two number of drinking water

supply reservoir tank also lies within the reservoir area. Regarding to road, paved road in Tallo-

Galyang and unpaved road in Devithan, Sera, Illunga, and Bayatari are lies within the reservoir

area.

4.1.16 River System and Ecological Integrity

The Andhikhola is a perennial, totally rain fed River, originating from the mid-mountains, i.e.,

the Mahabharat Range. It is a left bank tributary of Kali Gandaki River joining at Mirmi, just

about 500 m upstream of the existing dam site of Kali Gandaki “A” HEP. Major water use in this

river is irrigation, hydropower, and domestic use. The river is also plays a vital role maintaining

the terrestrial ecological integrity of the area.




4.2.1 Spatial Relation to Protected Areas

The Andhikhola Storage HEP lies outside National Parks, Wildlife Reserve, Protected Areas,

Buffer zone or any other legally protected conservation area listed by the Government of Nepal

(Figure 4-20). The nearest conservation area from the project is the Annapurna Conservation

Area, which lies some 40 km aerial distance north to the project. There is not any protected

area within the watershed of the Andhi khola.

4.2.2 Forest Resources

The vegetation and forest resource of the project area is discussed into following subsections;

4.2.2.1 Project Affected Districts (PADs)

The project affected Syangja district has about 47,984 ha of vegetation cover, which

encompasses about 46.25% of the district (Table 4-12). Similarly, Palpa has about 82,773 ha of

vegetation cover encompassing about 56.62% of the district. Therefore, in total, about 52.32%

of the total area of the PADs is covered by vegetation. The details are presented in the table

below. According to DFO-Syangja, majority of the forest in the district is Schima-Castanopsis

forest covering 62.18% of total forestland, followed by Shorea robusta forest (22.97%), Acacia

catechu- Dalgerbia Forest (1.90 %) and remaining Oak-Rhododendron and pine forest.

In terms of climate, the vegetation of the PADs comprises of Tropical deciduous forest,

temperate forest and sub-temperate forest. The tropical deciduous forest found along the

Kaligandaki and Andhikhola river belt and is composed of sal (Shorea robusta), sissoo

(Dalgerbia sissoo), khayer (Acacia catechu), simal (Bambox ceiba), Jamun (Syzygium cumini),

harro (Terminalia chebula) etc. Whereas the lower altitude (taar) is characterized by sub-

tropical forest and mainly composed of tooni (Toona ciliata), khote salla (Pinus roxburghii), utis

(Alnus nepalensis) etc.

In the upper hilly region of the PADs, temperate forest is found and is composed mainly of utis

(Alnus nepalensis), kafal (Myrica esculenta), gurans (Rhododendron spp.), banjh (Quarcus

spp.), etc. An enumerated list of tree species occurring in the project areas is given in

Appendix C.

Figure 4-22: Project Location and Protected Areas of Nepal



Furthermore, about 15,722 ha forest of Syangja district is managed by the community through

518 individual Community Forest Users’ Groups (CFUGs) shown in Table 4-13. Similarly, 645

community forest users’ manage about 35,108 ha forest of Palpa district.

Table 4-12: Vegetation Cover in PADs

S.N.

PAD Physiographic Region

Vegetation Cover Area (ha) Total vegetation

Cover (1) ha

Other land (2)

ha

Total area (1+2) ha Forest Shrub OWL

1 Syangja Middle Mountain 46,516 1,051 1,468 47,984 55,764 103,749

Sub-Total 1 46,516 1,051 1,468 47,984 55,764 103,749

Percentage (%) 44.84 1.01 1.41 46.25 53.75 100

2 Palpa Middle mountain 58,733 4,160 398 63,291 57,822 121,113

Chure 19,241 - 241 19,482 5,596 25,078

Sub-Total 2 77,974 4,160 639 82,773 63,418 146,191

Percentage (%) 53.34 2.84 0.44 56.62 43.38 100

Total 124,490 5,211 2,107 130,757 119,182 249,940 Percentage 49.81 2.08 0.84 52.32 47.68 100.00

Note: 1. OWL: Other wooded land (canopy cover of trees 5-10% with trees more than 5m high in-situ/ or canopy

cover of trees less than 5% but combined cover of shrub/bush/trees over 10%; includes areas of shrubs

and bushes where no trees are present).

2. The elevation of Middle Mountains region varies from 110 m to 3,300 m above mean sea level. The

elevation of High Mountains region varies from 543m in the river valley floors to 4,951m. The elevation of

High Himal region ranges from 1,960 m to 8,848m.

Source: DFRS, 2015

Table 4-13: Status of Forest in PADs

S. N.

Characteristics PAD

Syangja Palpa

1 Total Area 103,749 ha 146191 ha

2 Total vegetation Area 47,984 ha 82,773 ha

3 Forest (including shrubland)

47,567 ha 82,134 ha

4 Total CFUGs (no.) 518 (DFO-Syangja, 2074/075) 645 (DFO-Palpa, 2071/072)

5 Handed over CF area 15722.67 ha (DFO-Syangja, 2074/075)

35,108.01 ha(DFO-Syangja, 2074/075)

6 Impacted CF (no.) in PAA 2 0

Source: DFO- Syangja and Palpa, DFRS (2015)

4.2.2.2 Project Affected Area (PAA)

The PAA encompasses Waling and Galyang Municipality, Kaligandaki and Rambha Rural

Municipality from the PADs. The total area of the PAA is 42052.84 ha, out of which 13,878.28

ha is forestland (landuse table section 4.1). The landuse/ landcover map of PAA is shown in

(landuse figure from section 4).

Some of the project components including permanent camp, surge shaft, labour camp,

headrace tunnel, access road, muck disposal area, quarry site, reservoir, and dam site lies in

the private land. Only, the powerhouse, and parts of reservoir area lies in the forest area, which

are managed by communities. Two community forests and a Patch of Government Managed

Forest are found to be impacted by the project (Table 4-14).

Table 4-14: Affected Forest by the project

S.N. Name of Forest Area (ha) User HHs Administrative

Location

A. Krishnagandaki Illaka

1 Dhuseni-Bhalupani CF 8.658 103 Galyang -7

2 Rusidada CF 2.067 19 Galyang-4

3 Maridhunga GMF 1.244

4 Malunga GMF 5.796

Total 4.77 122

Source: DFO-Syngja



4.2.2.3 Watershed

The catchment area of the AKSHEP is characterized by diverse type of land use/land cover.

The GIS analysis shows that most of the catchment area is covered by cultivated land (26221

ha) which covers about 55.33% of the total catchment. This is followed by forest (30.49%),

grassland (7.8 %) and bush (4.31%), etc. in the upper part of the catchment.

4.2.2.4 Vegetation in the Reservoir Area

About 21.7 km stretch upstream of dam along the Andhikhola River will be inundated by the

reservoir of the project. Most of the inundation area of the project lies in the private land,

particularly kharbari. It is estimated that 412.903 ha of private land and 10.725 ha of forestland

will be inundated by backwater from the dam. There are two Community Forests (CF) and a

Government Managed Forest (GMF) within the inundation area. The sampling survey data on

vegetation of the impacted forest is presented in Table.

The Andhi Khola River in the reservoir area flows from east to west. The north and south

aspect of the river in the project area is mainly covered by private trees (of Kharbari), and very

small patches of community forest. Thirty-Five tree species are recorded in the reservoir area

during the field visit (Table 4-15). Khayer (Acacia catechu), saal (Shorea robusta), chilaune

(Schima wallichii), simal (Bambox ceiba), mauwa (Madhuca longifolia), tooni (Toona ciliate),

Jamun (Syzygium cumin), cheuri (Diploknema butyracea), sissoo (Dalgerbia sissoo), falit

(Syzygium sp.), kadam (Anthocephalus cadamba), etc, are the major tree species found in the

area. In addition, fodder trees like kutmiro (Litsea polyantha), khanyeu (Ficus semicordata),

badahar (Artocarpus lakoocha), khashre (Ficus hispida), ramsing, guyalo, fashro, and other are

found (Table 4-16). In the settlement area, fruits trees like amba, bhogate, nibuwa, aanp,

naspati etc are found (Table 4-16).

Table 4-15: Tree Species in the Reservoir Area

S.N Local Name

Scientific Name

1. Saal Shorea robusta

2. Bar Fecus benghalensis

3. Aanp Magnifera sp.

4. Cheuri Diploknema butyracea

5. Kadam Anthocephalus cadamba

6. Tooni Toona ciliate

7. Pipal Ficus religiosa

8. Khayer Acacia catechu

9. Swami

10. Chilaune Schima wallichii

11. Falit Syzygium sp.

12. Jamun Syzygium cumini

13. Kyamun Syzygium operculata

14. Buddhairo Lagerstroemia parviflora

15. Mauwa Madhuca longofolia

16. Sissoo Dalgerbia sissoo

17. Kaulo Persea sp.

S.N Local Name

Scientific Name

18. Patpate

19. Khirro Sapium insigne

20. Sindhure

21. Simal Bambox ceiba

22. Siris Albizia lebbeck

23. Salla Pinus roxburghii

24. Daar Boehmeria regulusa

25. Lampate Duabanga grandiflora

26. Tiju Picrasma javanica

27. Saj Terminalia tomentosa

28. Katus Castanopsis indica

29. Fajel

30. Kadam Anthocephalus cadamba

31. Faledo Erythrina stricta

32. Panyar

33. Gogane

34. Tarika

35. Utis Alnus nepalensis

Source: Field Study, 2019

NTFPs recorded in the reservoir area include kurilo (Asparagus recemosus), nigalo

(Arundinaria falcata), sishnu (Urtic adioica), banmara (Eupatorium adenophorum). titepati

(Artemisia vulgaris), amriso (Thysanolaena maxima), bhorla (Bauhinia vahlii), simali (Vitex

negundo), amala (Phyllanthus enblica), pani amala (Nephrolepis cordifolia), bans (Bambus sp.)

nigalo, nimtel (Jatropha curcas), bhalayo (Cemecarpus anacardium), ketuke (Agava

Americana), Aaiselu (Rubus ellipticus) and other. Similarly, grasses like - dubo (Cynodon

dactylon), ghodtapre (Centella australis), babio (Eulaliopsis binnata), amriso (Thysanolaena

maxima), siru (Impereta sp.), lazzawoti (Mimosa pudica), khari, furke, kans, banso, bhuikafal

and other are found in the reservoir area.



Picture 4-3: Vegetation in Reservoir Area

Table 4-16: Fodder and Fruit Trees Found in the Reservoir Area

S.N Local Name Scientific Name S.N Local Name Scientific Name

Fodder trees Fruit trees

1 Kavro Ficus infectoria 1 Aanp Magnifera sp.

2 Ramsing 2 Aamba

3 Gayo 3 Bhogate Citrus maxima

4 Kutmiro Litsea polyantha 4 Nibuwa

5 Fashro 5 Kera Musa paradisiaca

6 Badahar Artocarpus lakoocha 6 Rukhkatahar Artocarpus heterophyllus

7 Guyalo 7 Bel Aegle marmelos

8 Khanyeu Ficus semicordata 8 Lapsi Choerospondias axilaris

9 Harro Terminalia chebula 9 Aaru Prunus sp.

10 Khashre Ficus hispida Source: Field Study, 2019

Ethnobotany of local people

Almost all species are used as firewood depending upon the availability, including the fodder

trees. Herb species like chiraito (Swertia chirata), banmara (Eupatorium sp.), timur

(Xanthoxylum armatum), sisnu (Urtica dioica), titepati (Artemisia vulgaris), kurilo (Asparagus

racemosus)and other are especially used for medicinal purposes. For making traditional

utensils and handicrafts, ningalo (Arundinaria falcate) and bans is also found used.

Table 4-17: Use of Medicinal Plants by Local People

S.N. Local Name

Scientific Name Source Useful part Uses

1 Chiraito Swerita chirayta Forest Whole plant Common-cold, fever

2 Timur Xanthoxylum armatum

Agriculture land

fruit Headache

3 Mushroom

Forest Whole Part Asthma

4 Titepati Artemisia vulgaris Every place

Leaf As a blood coagulant

5 Sisnu Urtica dioica Wet area/ stream

Whole plant for healing of broken bones on animals, Human also uses its leaf as a food

6 Kurilo Asparagus racemosus

Forest To enrich calcium on cow and buffalo

7 Banmara

Eupatorium adenophorum

Wet area To control bleeding, as a blood coagulant

8 Harro Terminalia chebula Forest and private land

Fruit To treat cough and fever

9 Tulasi Ocimum sanctum House yard Flower, leaf and stem

Common-cold, fever, headache,



S.N. Local Name

Scientific Name Source Useful part Uses

10 Bel Aegle marmelos khet/bari fruit Fresh juice, constipation, and to improve digestion

11 Bojho Acorus calamus khet/bari root Common cold, Throat pain, Cough, Fever

Source: Field Survey/FGD, 2019

a)

Picture 4-4: NTFPs of the Project Area

b) Amriso (Thysanolaena maxima)

c) Amriso (Thysanolaena maxima) d) Tulasi (Ocimum sanctum)

e) Bhorla (Bauhinia vahlii) f) Bel (Aegle marmelos)



4.2.2.5 Vegetation in the Powerhouse Area

The powerhouse of the AKSHEP is proposed on left bank of the Kaligandaki River near at

Malunga of Kaligandaki RM. The proposed area is government managed forest. About 3.689

ha of government forest land will acquired by the project for power house. The forest is sub-

tropical deciduous forest and major tree species are falit (Syzygium sp.), kadam

(Anthocephalus cadamba), sal (Shorea robusta), khayer (Acacia catechu), simal (Bambox

ceiba), cheuri (Diploknema butyracea), buddhairo (Lagerstroemia parviflora), pipal (Ficus

religiosa), bar (ficus benghalensis), and other.

4.2.2.6 Vegetation in Access Road

About 7.545 km of road will be constructed to provide accessibility to dam, intake, and

powerhouse and camp area of the project. Vegetation along the access roads area as follows.

Access Road to Powerhouse

There is about 2.53 km of access road for the dam site of the proposed AKSHEP. About 1.58

km of the road alignment passes through private unarable land (kharbari), and remaining parts

on government managed forest. Tree species along the RoW of the road in kharbari are khayer

(Acacia catechu), bar (Ficus benghalensis), sal (Shorea robusta), chilaune (Schima wallichii),

falit (Syzygium sp.), budhdhairo (Lagerstroemia parviflora), and other. In government managed

forest tree along the access road are: sal (Shorea robusta), khayer (Acacia catechu), simal

(Bambox ceiba), cheuri (Diploknema butyracea), and other.

Access Road to Dam

About 1.4 km of road from Andhimuhan will provide accessibility to dam site. Alignment of the

proposed road is on the private unarable land (kharbari). Tree species found along the RoW of

the road are: khayer (Acacia catechu), mauwa (Madhuca longofolia), cheuri (Diploknema

butyracea), sisau (Dalgerbia sissoo), Jamun (Syzygium cumini), tooni (Toona ciliate), saal

(Shorea robusta), falit (Syzygium sp.), kutmiro (Litsea polyantha), fashro, chilaune (Schima

wallichii), badahar (Artocarpus lakoocha), guyalo, budhdhairo (Lagerstroemia parviflora), khirro

(Sapium insigne), and others.

Access Road to Surge Tank

The access road of surge tank starts from access road of Kaligandaki HEP. Sal (Shorea

robusta), chilaune (Schima wallichii), bel (Aegle marmelos), khayer (Acacia catechu), kadam

(Anthocephalus cadamba), salla (Pinus roxburghii), ramsing are the tree species found within

the RoW of the access road and in surge tank site.

Access Road to Intake

Intake of the AKSHEP is located near at the Illunga settlement. Two road will provide

accessibility to Intake. One will be constructed from the Ilunga, which will be 620 m in length,

and other will be from Guthi settlement, which will be 800 m in length. Vegetation along the

access road to intake is same as the vegetation in reservoir area.

Access Road to Adit

About 830 m of road will be constructed for accessibility to Adit. Adit and its access road is

locate on private land. Tree species along the access road and adit are khayer (Acacia

catechu), chilaune (Schima wallichiii), ramsing, utis (Alnus nepalensis), Kadam (Anthocephalus

cadamba) and others.



Picture 4-5: Vegetation along the access road

Table 4-18: Tree Species in Access Road

Component Tree species found

Access Road to Power House

Khayer (Acacia catechu), bar (Ficus benghalensis), sal (Shorea robusta), chilaune (Schima wallichii), falit (Syzygium sp.), budhdhairo (Lagerstroemia parviflora), pipal (Ficus religiosa), Kavro (Ficus infectoria), aanp (Magnifera sp.), cheuri (Diploknema butyracea), Kadam (Anthocephalus cadamba), ramsing, swami, bel (Aegle marmelos), bans (Bambus sp.), and gayo.

Access Road to Dam

khayer (Acacia catechu), mauwa (Madhuca longofolia), cheuri (Diploknema butyracea), sisau (Dalgerbia sissoo), Jamun (Syzygium cumini), tooni (Toona ciliate), sal (Shorea robusta), falit (Syzygium sp.), kutmiro (Litsea polyantha), fashro, chilaune (Schima wallichii), badahar (Artocarpus lakoocha), guyalo, budhdhairo (Lagerstroemia parviflora), khirro (Sapium insigne), lapsi (Choerospondias axilaris), kaulo, patpate, aanp (Magnifera sp.), sindhure and bans.

Access Road to Surge Tank

Sal (Shorea robusta), chilaune (Schima wallichii), bel (Aegle marmelos), khayer (Acacia catechu), kadam (Anthocephalus cadamba), salla (Pinus roxburghii), ramsing.

Access Road to Adit

Khayer (Acacia catechu), chilaune (Schima wallichiii), ramsing, utis (Alnus nepalensis), kadam (Anthocephalus cadamba), sal (Shorea robusta), aanp (Magnifera sp.), bar (Ficus benghalensis), pipal (Ficus religiosa), kavro (Ficus infectoria) and rukhkatahar (Artocarpus heterophyllus).

4.2.3 Dependency of Locals on Forest

In the PADs, 70.42% of total HHs are dependent on firewood as a main source of fuel for

cooking (CBS, 2011). Similarly, the questionnaire survey carried out for affected HHs revealed

that fuel wood (73.28%) is the main source of cooking purpose. About 54.12% of these HHs

collect fuel wood from community/government forest, 42.35% from private bushland/forest and

remaining 3.53%HHs purchase fuelwood from the local market.

Andhikhola Storage HEP (180 MW) Existing Environmental Condition


Table 4-19: Forest Survey Data

a) Dhuseni-Bhalupani Community Forest

S.N

Species Name

No of Individuals

of a Species

No of Plots in which Species occurred

Density (nos/ha)

Relative Density

Frequency Relative

Frequency Relative

Dominance IVI

Pole Tree Pole Tree Pole Tree Pole Tree Pole Tree Pole Tree Pole Tree Pole Tree

1 Madhuka Longifolia

3 2 2 2 100.07 13.35 25.00 50.00 66.67 66.67 66.7 100.0 17.97 48.26 158.3 216.66

2 Diploknema butyracea

1 0 1 0 33.36 0.00 8.33 0.00 33.33 0.00 33.3 0.00 16.04 0 75.00 0.00

3 Tooni 3 0 3 0 100.07 0.00 25.00 0.00 100.0 0.00 100.0 0.00 16.38 0 225.0 0.00

4 Bambox ceiba 1 0 1 0 33.36 0.00 8.33 0.00 33.33 0.00 33.3 0.00 12.28 21.21 75.00 0.00

5 Anthocephalus cadamba

2 1 1 1 66.71 6.67 16.67 25.00 33.33 33.33 33.3 50.00 21.18 0 83.33 108.33

6 Tarika 1 0 1 0 33.36 0.00 8.33 0.00 33.33 0.00 33.3 0.00 9.02 0 75.00 0.00

7 Schima wallichii

1 0 1 0 33.36 0.00 8.33 0.00 33.33 0.00 33.3 0.00 7.13 0 75.00 0.00

8 Lampate 0 1 0 1 0.00 6.67 0.00 25.00 0.00 33.33 0.0 50.00 0.00 0 0.00 108.33

Total 12 4 3 2 400.28 26.69 100.0 100.0 100.0 66.6 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 300 266.66

b) Maridhunga National Forest

S.N

Species Name

No of Individuals

of a Species


Density (nos/ha)

Relative Density

Frequency Relative

Frequency Relative

Dominance IVI


1 Madhuka Longifolia 1 0 1 0 33.36 0.00 6.67 0.00 33.33 0.00 33.3 0.00 8.25 0 73.33 0.00

2 Acacia catechu 10 3 3 2 333.5 20.02 66.67 75.00 100.00 66.67 100.0 100.00 83.51 68.92 266.6 241.6

3 Toona ciliate 1 0 1 0 33.36 0.00 6.67 0.00 33.33 0.00 33.3 0.00 4.64 0 73.33 0.00

4 Bambox ceiba 2 1 2 1 66.71 6.67 13.33 25.00 66.67 33.33 66.7 50.00 16.49 31.09 146.6 108.3

5 Anthocephalus cadamba 1 0 1 0 33.36 0.00 6.67 0.00 33.33 0.00 33.3 0.00 10.44 0 73.33 0.00

Total 15 4 3 2 500.3 26.69 100.0 100.0 100.00 66.67 100.0 100.00 100.00 0 300.0 266.6

c) Rusidada Community Forest



S.N

Species Name

No of Individuals of

a Species

No of Plots in which

Species occurred

Density (nos/ha)

Relative Density Frequency Relative

Frequency Relative

Dominance IVI


1

Madhuka Longifolia 0 1 0 1 0.00 6.67 0.00 49.98 0.00 33.3 0.0 50.00 0.00 82.3 0.00 133.31

2 Acacia catechu 14 1 2 1 466.99 6.67 66.67 49.98 66.67 33.3 66.7 50.00 70.25 17.7 200.00 133.31

3

Schima wallichii 4 0 2 0 133.43 0.00 19.05 0.00 66.67 0.00 66.7 0.00 13.94 0 152.38 0.00

4 Albizia lebbeck 1 0 1 0 33.36 0.00 4.76 0.00 33.33 0.00 33.3 0.00 8.92 0 71.43 0.00

5 Magnifera sp. 1 0 1 0 33.36 0.00 4.76 0.00 33.33 0.00 33.3 0.00 5.02 0 71.43 0.00

6 Unidentified 1 0 1 0 33.36 0.00 4.76 0.00 33.33 0.00 33.3 0.00 1.87 0 71.43 0.00

Total 21 2 3 2 700.49 13.35 100.0 99.97 100.0 66.6 100.0 100.0 0.00 0 300.00 266.63

d) Malunga Forest

SN

Species Name

No of Individuals of a Species


Density (nos/ha)

Relative Density Frequency Relative Frequency

Relative Dominance

IVI


1

Dalgerbia Sissoo 1 0 1 0 25.02 0.00 4.35 0.00 25.00 0.00 25.0 0.00 3.14 0.00 32.48 0.00

2 Acacia catechu 7 0 4 0 175.12 0.00 30.43 0.00 100.00 0.00 100.0 0.00 33.07 0.00 163.50 0.00

3 Shorea robusta 6 3 4 3 150.11 15.01 26.09 42.86 100.00 75.00 100.0 75.00 30.48 41.27 156.57 159.13

4

Anthocephalus cadamba 2 2 2 2 50.04 10.01 8.70 28.57 50.00 50.00 50.0 50.00 9.45 25.58 68.14 104.16

5 Bambox ceiba 1 1 1 1 25.02 5.00 4.35 14.29 25.00 25.00 25.0 25.00 4.38 11.86 33.73 51.15

6

Syzygium cumini 2 0 2 0 50.04 0.00 8.70 0.00 50.00 0.00 50.0 0.00 6.27 8.49 64.97 8.49

7

Diploknema butyracea 2 1 2 1 50.04 5.00 8.70 14.29 50.00 25.00 50.0 25.00 9.45 12.79 68.14 52.08

8 Aegle marmelos 1 0 1 0 25.02 0.00 4.35 0.00 25.00 0.00 25.0 0.00 2.10 0.00 31.45 0.00

9 Khirro 1 0 1 0 25.02 0.00 4.35 0.00 25.00 0.00 25.0 0.00 1.66 0.00 31.01 0.00

Total 23 7 4 4 575.40 35.03 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.0 100.00 100.00 100.00 300.00 300.00



4.2.4 Terrestrial Fauna

Forests area are primary habitats of terrestrial fauna. In the project-impact area, forest coverage

is very low compare to the national average. A small part of the total landuse/landcover of the

reservoir area is forest. Its quality, fragmentation and high human interference restricts its uses

for the majority of wild mammalians. Particularly, fragmentation and topographic location

surrounded by settlement is not favorable to the large number of wild faunal population.

Though the coverage of forest area is low, majority of the private land is barren (Kharbari)

occupied by trees. In the field, it is difficult to distinguish whether it is private unarable or

government forest area. Tall trees, bushes, and less human disturbances on the private

unarable (kharbari) resemble it as forest area. Therefore, private unarable (kharbari) may have

benefits to the wild fauna in the area.

Natural forest provide suitable habitat for a number of mammalian species. In the project area,

people reported Wild Cat (Felis chaus), Common Leopard (Panthera pardus),Rhesus Monkey

(Macaca mulatta), Terai Grey Langur (Semnopithecus hector), Porcupine (Hystrix indica), Indian

fox (Vulpes bengalensis), Malsapro (Martes flavigula),Common mongoose (Herpestes sp.),

Barking Deer (Muntiacus vaginalis), Jackal (Canis aureus), Chamero (Rousettus sp), Rats

(Rattus sp.) and Squirrel (Callosciurus pygerythrus), and other. During field study, occurrence of

Barking Deer (Muntiacus vaginalis), Rhesus Monkey (Macaca mulatta) and Rats (Rattus sp.)

was seen.

Picture 4-6: Wild Fauna of the Project Area

4.2.4.1 Birds

Natural forest, agricultural field, wetlands, villages, rivers, streams, gorges, and cliffs provide

variety of habitat for different species of birds. Sixteen bird species have been enumerated in

the project affected areas. The commonly reported birds of the project area are: Titra

(Francolinus francolinus.), Kalij (Lophura leucomelanos), House Sparrow (Passer domesticus),

House Crow (Carvus macrorhynchos), Jungle fowl (Gallus gallus), Dove (Streptopelia sp),

Swallow (Delichon nipalense), Cuckoo (Surniculus sp.), Lampuchchhre (Urocissasp.),Jureli

(Pycnonotus cafer), Koili (Cuculus sp.), Phisto (Orthotomus sutorius ), Owl (Strix aluco), Kokale

(Dendrocitta formosae ), Banjh (Falco subbuteo) and Eagle (Milvus migrans) (DFO-Palpa and

field information).



4.2.4.2 Herpeto-fauna

Limited information is available on herpeto-fauna of the project area. Hareu (Trimeresurus

albolabris), common frog (Rana tigrina), common garden lizard (Calotis versicolor), wall lizard

(Hemidactylus sp.), Common cat snake (Bioga trgonata), Rat snake (Pytas mucosus) are some

of the herpetofauna reported in the project area.

4.2.5 Protected Species of Flora and Fauna

Government of Nepal has protected some of the flora species under the Forest Rules, 1995.

Sal (Shorea robusta) is the only tree species found in the region, which is banned, for

commercial felling, transportation and export.

As per the National Park and Wildlife Conservation Act (1973) of Nepal, 26 mammal species

and 9 bird species been enlisted in the protected categories. Regarding fishes, Tor putitorais

found listed in IUCN endangered species and Neolissochilus hexagonolepis is near threatened.

The following table shows the conservation status of the reported species in the project area.

Table 4-20: Conservation Status of reported Species

S.N.

Local/Common Name Scientific Name

Conservation Status

NPWCA, 2029

CITES Appendix

IUCN

Mammals Rato Bandhar Macaca mulatta - II LC

Terai Grey Langur Semnopithecus hector - I NT

Chituwa (Common Leopard)

Panthera pardus - I VU

Shyal (Jackal) Canis aureus - III LC

Wild Cat Felis chaus - - LC

Porcupine Hystrix indica - - LC

Bengal fox Vulpes bengalensis - III LC

Malsapro Martes flavigula - III LC

Common Mongoose Herpestes sp. -

Barking deer Muntiacus vaginalis - - LC

Rats Rousettus sp -

Squirrel Callosciurus pygerythrus - - LC

Birds Hawk (Banjh) Falco subbuteo - - LC

Titra Francolinus francolinus - - LC Kalij pheasant Lophura leucomelanos - III LC

House sparrow Passer domesticus - LC

House crow Carvus macrorhynchos - LC

Junglefowl Gallus gallus - LC

Dove Streptopelia sp - LC

Swallow Delichon nipalense - LC

Cuckoo (chibe) Surniculus sp - LC

Common tailorbird (fisto) Orthotomus sutorius - LC

Lampuchhre Urocissa sp. - LC

Red-vented bulbul (jureli) Pycnonotus leucogenys - LC



Common cuckoo Cuculus sp - - LC

Owl Strix sp - - -

Kokale Dendrocitta formosae - - LC

Eagle Milvus migrans - - LC

Note: CR- Critically Endangered; EN- Endangered; VU- Vulnerable; NT- Near Threatened; LC- Least

Concerned; (NE- Not Evaluated)

Source: DNPWC, 2071 – Flora and Fauna of Nepal in CITES Annexes; www.icunredlist.org; NPWC Act,

1973

4.2.6 Fish and Aquatic life

4.2.6.1 Phytoplankton

In the wet season, forty-five species of phytoplanktons of four different families are collected in

the project site. The major classes of phytoplantons recorded in the project area are

Cyanophyceae, Xanthophyceae, Bacillariophyceae and Myxophyceae. Four different classes of

phytoplankton were collected in the sampling station. Altogether 36 species of phytoplankton

were found in Fishing Station (FUG) 1, 42 species in station-FUG 3, and 38 species in station-

FUG 5. Whereas, in the dry season, eleven genus of phytoplanktons of 11 different families are

collected in the project site. The major classes of phytoplantons recorded are Bacillariophyceae,

Cyanophyceae, Chlorophyceae and Fragilariophyceae.

4.2.6.2 Zooplankton

Seven species of zooplanktons of three different classes are collected in the project site. The

major classes of zooplanktons recorded in the project site are Rotifers, Copipodaand Cladosera

during field survey. Six species in station FUG-1, 5 species in station-FUG 3 and 6 species in

station-FUG 5 were observed. However, zooplankton were not recorded in the dry season.

4.2.6.3 Aquatic Insects

In the wet season, fifteen species of aquatic insects of five different classes are collected in the

project site. The major classes of aquatic insects recorded in the project site are Plecoptera,

Ephemeroptera, Trichoptera, Diptera, and Hemiptera during field survey. Station- FUG 1

recorded 9 species, in station-FUG 3, 8 species and station-FUG 5, 13 species in the wet

season.

Whereas, in the dry season, forty-seven species of Macro-invertibrates are collected in the

project site from six different sampling stations. The major classes of aquatic insects recorded in

the project site are Anisoptera, Coleoptera, Diptera, Ephemeroptera, Haplotaxida, Hemiptera,

Megaloptera, Plecoptera, Trichoptera, Zygoptera, Megaloptera and Anisoptera.

4.2.6.4 Fish Fauna

• Fish Diversity

Out of the 34 reported species in the river, 12 species were collected in the dry season.

Collected fish species were: Barilius barila, Barilius bendelisis, Barilius vagra, Garra annandalei,

Garra gotyla, Labeo dero, Labeo dyocheilus, Neolirocneilus hexagonolepis, Puntius sophore,

Puntius terio, Schizothorax richardsoni and Tor putitoraduring field survey.

http://www.icunredlist.org/



In wet season, 18 fish species were collected from the same sampling stations as of dry

season. Collected fish species were:Barilius barila, Barilius barna, Barilius bendelisis, Barilius

vagra, Botia geto, Channa punctata, Crossocheilus latius, Garra annandalei, Garra gotyla,

Macrognathus armatus, Macrognathus pancalus, Neolissochilus hexagonolepis, Puntius

sophore, Puntius terio, Labeo dyocheilus, Salmostoma acinaces, Schistura rupicula and Tor

putitoraduring field survey.

In wet season survey, two species of fishes: Schizothorax richardsoni and Labeo dero recorded

during dry season survey was not recorded while, eight new species of fishes: Macrognathus

pancalus, Macrognathus armatus, Salmostoma acinaces, Barilius barna, Botia geto, Channa

punctate, Crossocheilus latius, and Schistura rupicula were recorded. In total, 20 species of

fishes were recorded from the project area. Comparison of fish species observed at five

sampling station in both the season is listed in the following table.

Table 4-21: Fish Species Observed in Samplings Stations

Station

No. Description

Fish Species Collected

Wet Season Dry Season

FAK 1 Nearest Last water level of Reservoir area of Andhikhola

Storage HEP 5 3

FAK 2 Reservoir area of Andhikhola Storage HEP 9 6

FAK 3 Upstream of Dam site Reservoir area 8 3

FAK 4 Dam site of Andhikhola Storage HEP 5 6

FAK 5 Powerhouse site of Andhikhola Storage HEP in

Kaligandaki River 7 4

Source: Field survey, 2018 and 2019

Table 4-22: Fish Species Recorded at Each Sampling Site

S.

N.

Fish Species River Reach No.

Scientific Name Local Name FAK 1 FAK 2 FAK 3 FAK 4 FAK 5

Wet Dry Wet Dry Wet Dry Wet Dry Wet Dry

1 Barilius barila Faketa 6 2 15 - - - - - - -

2 Barilius bendelisis Faketa 4 22 4 9 7 3 2 8 - 4

3 Barilius vagra Faketa - - 5 3 - - 2 4 - -

4 Garra annandalei Lahare buduna 2 - 6 - 2 - - 1 - -

5 Garra gotyla Nakte Buduna 2 - 11 3 5 - - - 1 1

6 Labeo dero Gardi - - - - - - - 1 - 1

7 Labeo dyocheilus Hade - - - 1 - - 1 - - -

8 Neolirocneilus hexagonolepis Katle

- - 2 - 1 - - 2 1 2

9 Puntius sophore Pothi - - - - - 2 1 - - -

10 Puntius terio Pothi 9 9 2 - 3 - - - - -

11 Schizothorax richardsoni Buchche asala - - - 1 - - - - - -

12 Tor putitora Paheli Sahar - - 2 1 1 2 2 1 - -

13 Macrognathus pancalus Chhuche bam 1 - - - - - - -

14 Macrognathus armatus Chhuche bam 1 - - - - -

15 Salmostoma acinaces Chelwa 1 - - - - -



16 Barilius barna Faketa 2 -

17 Botia geto Baghi 1

18 Channa punctata Hile/Bhoti 1 -

19 Crossocheilus latius Lohare 2 -

20 Schistura rupicula Gadela 1 -

Total 23 33 48 18 21 7 8 17 10 8


• Species Abundance and Fish Composition

In the dry season, (during scoping phase) 83 fish of 12 different species were collected from the

sampling stations of Andhukhola and Kaligandaki River. Barilius bendelisis (faketa) contributed

55.42% Puntius terio (pothi) contributed 10.84%; Barilius vagra (faketa) contributed 8.43% of

the total fish catch.

Whereas, in the wet season (during EIA phase), 109 fish of 18 different species were collected

from the sampling stations of Andhukhola and Kaligandaki River. Barilius barila (Faketa)

contributed 19.17% Garra gotyla (Nakte buduna) contributed 17.43%, Barilius bendelisis

(Faketa) contributed 15.60 %, Puntius terio (Pothi) contributed 12.84%, and others.

Thisseasonal study shows thatBarilius bendelisis (Faketa) and Puntius terio (Pothi) are the

dominant fish species in the project area.

Table 4-23: Species Diversity and Distribution Pattern

S.

N. Scientific Name Local name

No. of fish caught by Cast net

Wet Season Dry Season

No. of fish sp.

Distribution of fish sp. (%)

No. of fish sp.

Distribution of fish sp. (%)

1 Barilius barila Faketa 21 19.27 2 2.41

2 Barilius bendelisis Faketa 17 15.60 46 55.42

3 Barilius vagra Faketa 7 6.42 7 8.43

4 Garra annandalei Lahare buduna 10 9.17 1 1.20

5 Garra gotyla Nakte Buduna 19 17.43 4 4.82

6 Labeo dero Gardi 2 2.41

7 Labeo dyocheilus Hade 0 1 1.20

8 Neolirocneilus hexagonolepis Katle 5 4.59 4 4.82

9 Puntius sophore Pothi 1 0.92 2 2.41

10 Puntius terio Pothi 14 12.84 9 10.84

11 Schizothorax richardsoni Buchche asala 1 1.20

12 Tor putitora Paheli Sahar 5 4.59 4 4.82

13 Macrognathus pancalus Chhuche bam 1 1.92 -

14 Macrognathus armatus Chhuche bam 1 0.92 -

15 Salmostoma acinaces Chelwa 1 0.92 -

16 Barilius barna Faketa 2 1.89 -

17 Botia geto Baghi 1 0.92 -

18 Channa punctata Hile/Bhoti 1 0.92 -

19 Crossocheilus latius Lohare 2 1.83 -

20 Schistura rupicula Gadela 1 0.92 -

Total 109 100.00 83 100.00




Table 4-24: Percentage Abundance at Sampling Station (using cast net)

River

Reach

Sites Season

No. of Fish

caught

Total Weight of

fish caught (gm)

No. of

species

Catch

Percentage

% of fish

caught

Weight

Wet Dry Wet Dry Wet Dry Wet Dry Wet Dry

FAK 1

Nearest Last water level of

Reservoir area of

Andhikhola Storage HEP

23 33 116 234 5 3 21.10 39.76 12.83 21.39

FAK 2 Reservoir area of

Andhikhola Storage HEP 48 18 395 335 9 6 44.04 21.69 43.69 30.62

FAK 3 Upstream of Dam site

Reservoir area 21 7 237 50 8 3 19.27 8.43 26.22 4.57

FAK 4 Dam site of Andhikhola

Storage HEP 7 17 41 277 5 6 6.42 20.48 4.54 25.32

FAK 5

Powerhouse site of

Andhikhola Storage HEP

in Kaligandaki River

10 8 115 198 7 4 9.17 9.64 12.72 18.10

Total 109 83 904 1094 100.00 100.0 100.0 100.0


• Catch Per Unit Effort (CPUE)

During scoping phase, in the dry season, 83 fish were caught in five sampling stations with 1500

level of effort. Attempt catch ratio in River Reach FAK 1 is 1:0.110. Similarly, Attempt Catch

ration for FAK 2 is 1:0.060, for FAK 3 is 1:0.020, for FAK 4 is 1:0.057, for FAK 5 and is 1:0.027.

During wet season (EIA phase), 109 fish were caught in 5 sampling stations. Attempt catch ratio

in River Reach FAK 1 is 1:0.073. Similarly, the attempt catch ration for FAK 2 is 1:0.152, for

FAK 3 is 1:0.062, for FAK 4 is 1:0.024 and for FAK 5 is 1:0.032.

Table 4-25: Catch per Unit Effort (CPUE) at Different sampling station

River

Reach

Sites

Season

Level of

Effort

No. of Fish

caught

Catch per unit

effort (CPUE)

Attempt Catch

Ratio

Wet Dry Wet Dry Wet Dry Wet Dry

FAK 1

Nearest Last water level of

Reservoir area of Andhikhola

Storage HEP

314 300 23 33 0.073 0.110 1:0.073 1:0.110

FAK 2 Reservoir area of Andhikhola

Storage HEP 315 300 48 18 0.152 0.06 1:0.152 1:0.060

FAK 3 Upstream of Dam site

Reservoir area 337 300 21 7 0.062 0.023 1:0.062 1:0.020

FAK 4 Dam site of Andhikhola

Storage HEP 290 300 7 17 0.024 0.057 1:0.024 1:0.057

FAK 5

Powerhouse site of

Andhikhola Storage HEP in

Kaligandaki River

317 300 10 8 0.032 0.027 1:0.032 1:0.027

Total 1573 1500 109 83 0.069 0.055 1:0.069 1:0.055




Fish migration and migratory pattern

The migratory nature of some fish species were studied on the basis of finding of relevant

literatures, interaction with local fishermen and direct observation. Among 34 fish species, six

species were long distance migratory species, five were medium distance migratory species

and rest are major residence species were observed and reported during field survey.

Habitat characterization Fish habitat at the sample station in both the Andhikhola and Kaligandaki River characterized in

terms of river flow is given in Table 4-28. At the surveyed stations, majority of habitat belongs to

the run type followed by riffle and then pools. No any rapid flow zone was observe near by the

surveyed stations.

Table 4-26: Composition of substrate at different location

S.No. Habitat Characterization

(Approximately) unit

Station FAK 1

Station FAK 2

Station FAK 3

Station FAK 4

Station FAK 5

A River width m 25 28 30 40 70

Run type of water M

1 Rapid flow – %

2 Riffle – % 30 30 50 60 15

3 Run – % 55 60 45 35 75

4 pools – % 15 10 5 5 10

Substrate code 100 100 100 100 100

0 0. Muck or mud – %

1 1. Fine sand – % 15

2 2. coarse sand– % 5 5 5 2 40

3 3. pea gravel – % 10 10 10 3 5

4 4. Small gravel – % 10 10 15 10 5

5 5. large gravel – % 15 15 20 10 5

6 6. small cobbles – % 10 10 10 15 5

7 7. large cobbles – % 15 10 10 10 5

8 8. small Boulders – % 15 10 10 15 5

9 9. Large Boulders – % 10 15 10 20 5

10 10. Bed Rock – % 10 15 10 15 10

Inorganic substrate components (should add up to 100%) 20 S.No. Substrate type unit Site Site Site 10 Site

1 Bed Rock % 10 15 10 15 10

2 Boulders – % 25 25 20 35 10

3 Cobbles % 25 20 20 25 10

4 Gravel – % 35 35 45 23 15

5 Sand % 5 5 5 2 55

6 Silt %

7 Clay

Source: Field survey 2019



Table 4-27: Fish Migration Pattern in AandhiKhola

S.No Scientific Name of Fish Local Name of

Fish Oder of Fish

Migrotory species

Migration pattern of Upstream and Downstream Fish species

Jan Feb Mar Apr May June July Aug Sep Oct Nub Des

1 Anguilla bengalensis Raj Bam Anguilliformes LM

2 Bagarius yarrelli Gounch Siluriformes LM

3 Barilius barna Faketa Cypriniformes R

4 Barilius barila Faketa Cypriniformes R

5 Barilius bendelisis Faketa Cypriniformes R

6 Barilius vagra Faketa Cypriniformes R

7 Botia almorhae Baghi Cypriniformes R

8 Botia geto Baghi Cypriniformes R

9 Botia lohachata Baghi Cypriniformes R

10 Channa punctata Hile/Bhoti Perciformes R

11 Clarias gariepinus Magur Siluriformes R

12 Clupisoma garua Jalkapoor Siluriformes LM

13 Crossocheilus latius Lohare Cypriniformes R

14 Garra annandalei Lahare buduna Cypriniformes R

15 Garra gotyla Nakte Buduna Cypriniformes R

16 Glyptothorax pectinopterus Kabre Siluriformes R

17 Glyptothorax telchitta kabre Siluriformes R

18 Labeo dero Gardi Cypriniformes MM

19 Labeo dyocheilus Hade Cypriniformes MM

20 Macrognathus armatus Chhuche bam Synbranchiformes R

21 Macrognathus pancalus Chhuche bam Synbranchiformes R

22 Nemacheilus multifaciantus Gadela Cypriniformes R

23 Neolirocneilus hexagonolepis Katle Cypriniformes MM

24 Psedecheneis sulcatus Kabre Siluriformes R

25 Puntius conchonius Pothi Cypriniformes R

26 Puntius sophore Pothi Cypriniformes R

27 Puntius terio Pothi Cypriniformes R

28 Salmostoma acinaces Chelwa Cypriniformes R

29 Schistura corica Gadela Cypriniformes R

30 Schistura rupicula Gadela Cypriniformes R

31 Schizothoraichthys progastus Chuchche Asala Cypriniformes MM

32 Schizothorax richardsoni Buchche asala Cypriniformes MM

33 Tor putitora Paheli Sahar Cypriniformes LM

34 Tor tor Sahar Cypriniformes LM



Photographs

Picture 4-7: Some fishes captured during the sampling



4.2.7 Planktons and Microinvertebraet 4.2.7.1 Phytoplankton

Eight classes and 17 Genus of phytoplanktons of 27 different families were collected in the

project site. The major classes of phytoplantons recorded in the project area are

Bacillariophyceae, Chlorophyceae, Fragilariophyceae, Chlorophyceae, Zygnematophyceae,

Ulvophyceae, Chlorophyceae and Cyanophyceae as shown in table below. 6650 number of

phytoplankton was found in - FAK 1, 6200 number of phytoplankton in –FAK 2, 7550 number of

phytoplankton in –FAK 3, f 1900 number o phytoplankton in – FAK 4 and number of 1000

phytoplankton in – FAK 5.

4.2.7.2 Zooplankton

As per the laboratory report, zooplankton was not available in the sample collected.

4.2.7.3 Macroinvertebrate

Seven order of Macroinvertibrate were recorded at the sampling sites. The Order of

macroinvertebrates recorded in the project site were: Megaloptera, Coleoptera, Trichoptera,

Odonata, Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Heteroptera. Numbers of micro invertibrates

recorded at different sampling sutes is given in table below.



Table 4-28: Phytoplankton Recorded at different Sampling Station

S.n. Common

name Division Class Order Family Genus Species

FAK 1 FAK 2 FAK 3 FAK 4 FAK 5

Present Present Present Present Present

1 Cymbella Bacillariophyta Bacillariophyceae Cymbellales Cymbellaceae Cymbella spp. + + + + +

2 Cymbella Bacillariophyta Bacillariophyceae Cymbellales Cymbellaceae Cymbella + +

3 Diatoma Bacillariophyta Bacillariophyceae Fragilariales Fragilariaceae Diatoma vulgaris +

4 Gomphonema Gomphonema Bacillariophyta Cymbellales Gomphonemataceae Gomphonema acuminatum +

5 Navicula Bacillariophyta Bacillariophyceae Naviculales Naviculaceae Navicula +

6 Pinnularia Bacillariophyta Bacillariophyceae Naviculales Pinnulariaceae Pinnularia gentilis +

7 Pinnularia Bacillariophyta Bacillariophyceae Naviculales Pinnulariaceae Pinnularia gentilis +

8 Spirogyra Chlorophyta Chlorophyceae Zygmematales Zygnematophyceae Spirogyra + +

9 Spirulina Cyanophyta Cyanophyceae Spirulinales Spirulinaceae Spirulina princeps +

10 Synedra Bacillariophyta Fragilariophyceae Fragilariales Fragilariaceae Synedra + + +

11 Ulothrix Chlorophyta Chlorophyceae Ulothricales Ulotrichaceae Ulothrix varibilis + + +

12 Bacillariophyta Bacillariophyceae Naviculales Naviculaceae Gyrosigna scalpor + +

13 Charophya Zygnematophyceae Desmidiales Closteriaceae Closterium +

14 Charophya Zygnematophyceae Desmidiales Desmidiaceae Cosmarium angulosum + + + +



17 Chlorophyta Ulvophyceae Cladophorales Cladophoraceae Cladophora +

18 Chlorophyta Chlorophyceae Sphaeropleales Scenedesmaceae Scenedasmus +

19 Chlorophyta Ulvophyceae Cladophorales Cladophoraceae Cladophora + + +

20 Chlorophyta Chlorophyceae Sphaeropleales Scenedesmaceae Scenedasmus +

21 Cyanobacteria Cyanophyceae Oscillatoriales Oscillatoriaceae Lyngbya +

22 Cyanobacteria Cyanophyceae Cyanophyceae Oscillatoriaceae Oscillatoria +

23 Cyanobacteria Cyanophyceae Oscillatoriales Oscillatoriaceae Phromidium tenue + +

24 Cyanobacteria Cyanophyceae Oscillatoriales Oscillatoriaceae Lyngbya + +

25 Cyanobacteria Cyanophyceae Cyanophyceae Oscillatoriaceae Oscillatoria +

26 Cyanophyta Cyanophyceae Spirulinales Spirulinaceae Spirulena princps +

27 Zygnema +

13 8 8 10 6



Table 4-29: Population Density of Phytoplankton at different Sampling Station

S.N.

Common name

Division Class Order Family Genus Species

FAK 1 FAK 2 FAK 3 FAK 4 FAK 5

Number/Litter

Number/Litter

Number/Litter

Number/Litter

Number/Litter

1 Cymbella Bacillariophyta Bacillariophyceae Cymbellales Cymbellaceae Cymbella spp. 2000 1400 1200 100 100

2 Cymbella Bacillariophyta Bacillariophyceae Cymbellales Cymbellaceae Cymbella 2000 150

3 Diatoma Bacillariophyta Bacillariophyceae Fragilariales Fragilariaceae Diatoma vulgaris 2200

4 Gomphonema

Gomphonema Bacillariophyta Cymbellales Gomphonemataceae Gomphonema acuminatum 500

5 Navicula Bacillariophyta Bacillariophyceae Naviculales Naviculaceae Navicula 100

6 Pinnularia Bacillariophyta Bacillariophyceae Naviculales Pinnulariaceae Pinnularia gentilis 150

7 Pinnularia Bacillariophyta Bacillariophyceae Naviculales Pinnulariaceae Pinnularia gentilis 150

8 Spirogyra Chlorophyta Chlorophyceae Zygmematales Zygnematophyceae Spirogyra 200 150

9 Spirulina Cyanophyta Cyanophyceae Spirulinales Spirulinaceae Spirulina princeps 150

10 Synedra Bacillariophyta Fragilariophyceae Fragilariales Fragilariaceae Synedra 1000 150 100

11 Ulothrix Chlorophyta Chlorophyceae Ulothricales Ulotrichaceae Ulothrix varibilis 150 200 400

12 Bacillariophyta Bacillariophyceae Naviculales Naviculaceae Gyrosigna scalpor 1000 500

13 Charophya Zygnematophyceae Desmidiales Closteriaceae Closterium 1500

14 Charophya Zygnematophyceae Desmidiales Desmidiaceae Cosmarium angulosum 1000 1200 800 100



17 Chlorophyta Ulvophyceae Cladophorales Cladophoraceae Cladophora 100

18 Chlorophyta Chlorophyceae Sphaeropleales Scenedesmaceae Scenedasmus 400

19 Chlorophyta Ulvophyceae Cladophorales Cladophoraceae Cladophora 100 200 100

20 Chlorophyta Chlorophyceae Sphaeropleales Scenedesmaceae Scenedasmus 100

21 Cyanobacteria Cyanophyceae Oscillatoriales Oscillatoriaceae Lyngbya 200

22 Cyanobacteria Cyanophyceae Cyanophyceae Oscillatoriaceae Oscillatoria 200

23 Cyanobacteria Cyanophyceae Oscillatoriales Oscillatoriaceae Phromidium tenue 150 400

24 Cyanobacteria Cyanophyceae Oscillatoriales Oscillatoriaceae Lyngbya 250 100

25 Cyanobacteria Cyanophyceae Cyanophyceae Oscillatoriaceae Oscillatoria 100

26 Cyanophyta Cyanophyceae Spirulinales Spirulinaceae Spirulena princps 100

27 Zygnema 150

Total 6650 6200 7550 1900 1000



Table 4-30: Macroinvertebrate Recorded at different Sampling Station

S.No. Common name Order Family Sub-Family Genus Species FAK 1 FAK 2 FAK 3 FAK 4 FAK 5

Present Present Present Present Present

1 Alderflies Megaloptera Corydalidae + +

2 Beetles Coleoptera Psephenidae Psephenoidinae +

3 Beetles Coleoptera Staphylinidae +

4 Caddisfly Trichoptera Hydropsychidae Ceratopsyche + +

5 Caddisfly Trichoptera Hydropsychidae Cheumatopsyche +

6 Dragonflies Odonata Gomphidae +

7 Mayfly Ephemeroptera Leptophlebiidae Choroterpes +

8 Mayfly Ephemeroptera Heptageniidae Cinygmina +

9 Mayfly Ephemeroptera Baetidae Baetis +


11 Mayfly Ephemeroptera Heptageniidae Cinygmina + +


13 Mayfly Ephemeroptera Baetidae Baetis +

14 Stonefly Plecoptera Perlidae Neoperla + +

15 Stonefly Plecoptera Perlidae Neoperla + +

16 Waterbugs Heteroptera Apheloceridae + +

Table 4-31: Number of Macroinvertebrate Recorded at different Sampling Station

S.No. Common name Order Family Sub-Family Genus Species FAK 1 FAK 2 FAK 3 FAK 4 FAK 5

Number Number Number Number Number

1 Alderflies Megaloptera Corydalidae 1 1

2 Beetles Coleoptera Psephenidae Psephenoidinae 1

3 Beetles Coleoptera Staphylinidae 5

4 Caddisfly Trichoptera Hydropsychidae Ceratopsyche 3 2

5 Caddisfly Trichoptera Hydropsychidae Cheumatopsyche 1

6 Dragonflies Odonata Gomphidae 2

7 Mayfly Ephemeroptera Leptophlebiidae Choroterpes 3

8 Mayfly Ephemeroptera Heptageniidae Cinygmina 25



9 Mayfly Ephemeroptera Baetidae Baetis 1


11 Mayfly Ephemeroptera Heptageniidae Cinygmina 10 5


13 Mayfly Ephemeroptera Baetidae Baetis 1

14 Stonefly Plecoptera Perlidae Neoperla 9 1

15 Stonefly Plecoptera Perlidae Neoperla 13 16

16 Waterbugs Heteroptera Apheloceridae 1 1

Total 40 22 22 39 5



4.3 Socio-economic and Cultural Environment

4.3.1 Project Affected Districts (PADs)

Proposed AKSHEP affects two districts of two province of Nepal, namely Syangja (Gandaki

Province) and Palpa (Province No. 5). After the state's reconstruction of administrative divisions

as of 20 September 2015, there are 14 RMs and 7 municipalities in two districts (6 RMs and 5

municipalities in Syangja District and 8 RMs and 2 municipalities in Palpa District). These PADs

cover an area of 2,537 sq.km. (Comprising about 2.08% of total national area).

4.3.1.1 Demographic Characteristics

The proposed AKHEP is located in Syangja District of Gandaki Province and Palpa District of

Province no 5, of Nepal. The total area of the districts is 2,537sq.km. According to the data of

Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) 2011, the total population of PADs is 550,328 with 241,673

(43.91%) male and 308,655 (56.09%) female. Population of PADs is about 2.08% of total

population of the country (26,494,504). The population density of the PAD is 216.92

(persons/sq.km). There are 128,172 HHs and the average HHs size is 4.29.

Population growth of the district from the last decade is negative by 0.59 percent. This is

because the PAD located in high hill area having less agricultural land and migration towards

nearby urban areas. People of the PAD go to the terai area for better opportunities that leads to

low population growth rate. On the other hand, the increasing outflow of migrant workers and

low fertility and mortality rate due to GoN policy are other factors for low population growth rate

in PADs. Details demographic status is presented below.

The average literacy rate is 67.64%, which is higher than the national average (65.9%),

however, the literacy rate of Rukum East district is lower than national average. The urban

population of PAD is 50.83%. The number of the urban population has highly increased from

the last few years since the GoN has recently announced many new municipalities by

incorporating existing VDCs. The demographic characteristics of the PADs are given in the

table below.

Table 4-32: Demographic characteristics of the PADs

Demographic Characteristics District Total

Population Percentage /Average Palpa Syangja

Total Population 261,180 289,148 550,328 -

Male 115,840 125,833 241,673 43.91

Female 145,340 163,315 308,655 56.09

Total Numbers of HHs 59,291 68881 128,172 -

Average HH size 4.41 4.00 - 4.29

Population Density (persons/ Sq.km) 190.23 248.41 - 216.92

Population Growth Rate(2001-2011) -0.26 -0.92 - -0.59

Population Below 10 Years (%) 54,149 55,465 109,614 19.92

Elderly Population 60+years (%) 25,923 35,396 61,319 11.14

Economically Active Population (10-59years) 181,108 198,287 379,395 68.94

Sex Ratio (Males per 100 Females) 79.70 77.05 78.30

Total population of 5 years and Above 237,191 265,025 502,216 91.26

Percent of Literacy Rate (5 years and above) 76.22 76.61 76.43

Total Area of the Districts (Sq. km) 1,373 1,164 2,537 -

Percent of District Population Compared with Country's

0.99 1.091 2.08

Source: Demographic Profile of Nepal, 2013/2014



4.3.1.2 Social Demography

a. Caste/Ethnicity and Mother Tongue

As other districts of Nepal, the PAD is diverse in ethnic composition. The indigenous caste

group Magar is the dominant caste residing in the PADs especially in the countryside. Out of

total population of Palpa District, about 52.30% are of Magar community, whereas in Syangja

District, this community covers 21.47% of total population. Population of Dalit caste groups

(Kami, Sarki, Damai/Dholi etc) is also significant in the PAD. The details of caste/ethnic

composition PADs are given below.

Table 4-33: Major Caste/ethnic group in PADs

SN Caste Syangja Percentage Palpa Percentage Total Percentage

1 Brahmin Hill 89291 30.88 45608 17.46 134899 24.51

2 Magar 62074 21.47 136588 52.30 198662 36.10

3 Chhetri 33327 11.53 20628 7.90 53955 9.80

4 Gurung 25926 8.97 576 0.22 26502 4.82

5 Dalit 45757 15.82 21145 8.10 66902 12.16

6 Newar 9635 3.33 9031 3.46 18666 3.39

7 Thakuri 7097 2.45 3807 1.46 10904 1.98

8 Gharti/Bhujel 7022 2.43 1614 0.62 8636 1.57

9 Musalman 1986 0.69 1230 0.47 3216 0.58

10 Dasnami/Sanyasi 1658 0.57 402 0.15 2060 0.37

11 Others 5,375 1.86 20,551 7.87 25,926 4.71

Source: Population Monograph of Nepal, CBS 2014 and District Profiles

Hinduism is major religion (90.35%), followed by Buddhism. Other religious groups of PADs are

Islam, Christianity, Bon, Prakriti and some are recorded as unidentified religions during

population census.

Table 4-34: Distribution of Religion in PADs

SN District Total Hinduism Buddhism Islam Christianity Bon Others

1 Syangja 289148 260832 21514 1978 582 3717 525

2 Palpa 261180 236411 20426 1226 2294 2 821

Total 550328 497243 41940 3204 2876 3719 1346

Percentage 100 90.35 7.62 0.58 0.52 0.68 0.24

*Note: Other religious groups cover Bon, Jainism, Bahai, Sikhism and unidentified groups.

Source: National Population and Housing Census, CBS, 2011

b. Mother Tongue

Total 24 languages spoken by the people in PADs. Majority of the population in the PADs

speak Nepali (68.56%) language followed by Magar (24.10%). Besides this, people speak

theirown ethnic languages to communicate.

Table 4-35: Distribution of Religion in PADs

SN Language Total Nepali Magar Newari Gurung Others

1 Syangja 289,148 215,180 43,654 4,831 22,421 3,062

2 Palpa 261,180 162,132 88,950 5,151 136 4,811

Total 550,328 377,312 132,604 9,982 22,557 7,873

percentage 100 68.56 24.10 1.81 4.10 1.43


c. Educational Status

In literacy status, Syangja district is ranked at 7th position, whereas literacy level of Palpa district

is ranked at 8th position in the country (CBS, 2011). According to CBS 2011, out of total

population five years and above population of the PADs is 91.26%. The literacy rate of the PAD

is 76.43%, which is higher than national average (65.94%) where male literacy is 85.50%, and

female literacy is 69.54% (CBS 2011). Schools of all levels (basic, secondary) are found in

PADs. There are 1,990 schools in PADs.



Table 4-36: Population and Literacy in PADs

SN District Population Above 5 years Literate Population

Total Male Female Total Male Female

1 Syangja 265,025 113,340 151,685 203,034 97,531 105,503

2 Palpa 237,191 103,503 133,688 180,788 87,865 92,935

Total 502,216 216,843 285,373 383,822 185,396 198,438

Percentage/Literacy Status 91.26 43.18 56.82 76.43 85.50 69.54


Table 4-37: Educational Institutions in PADs

SN District Basic Schools Secondary Schools

Primary (1-5) Lower Secondary (5-7) Secondary (9-10) 11-12

1 Syangja 627 236 160 87

2 Palpa 493 211 112 64

Sub-Total 1,120 447 272 151

Total 1,567 423


d. Health and Sanitation

● Crude Death Rate (CDR)

The average estimated CDR of PAD is 9.33 which is higher to national CDR level i.e. 7.30;

deaths per 1000 population. Certain variables, i.e. availability of health facilities, higher per

capita income and high literacy rate tend to decrease CDR whereas some variables, i.e. high

population density, lack of water supply and poor sanitation tend to increase CDR. Syangja

District has slightly higher CDR (9.52), whereas Palpa has comparatively lower (9.14).

● Infant Mortality Rate (IMR)

The infant mortality rate (IMR) is the number of deaths of infants under one year old per 1000

live births. The estimated average IMR for total males and females in PADs is 20.64, which is

lower than national level (40.5) where male IMR is 24.92 and female IMR is 16.99. The IMR

decreases continuously from last few decades, which reflect the awareness of local towards

health facilities.

● Life Expectancy

Life expectancy of both project districts is higher (Palpa 71.3) and (Syangja 70.1) as compared

to national level (66.6). The lower life expectancy reveals the poor health condition of the area.

● Health Institutions

District level health facility is available in district headquarter besides these government health

centers other health clinics are also provides their services in districts; Expanded Program on

Immunization (EPI) is a health clinic works in child care. Female Community Health Volunteer

(FCHV) is works in field of women's health and awareness field.

● Disease

The major diseases reported in the project area as according to the local health posts Diarrheal

Disease, Intestinal Worm, Acute Respiratory Infection, Skin Diseases, Ear Infection, Gastritis,

Vitamin/Nutrition Deficiencies and others. In case of emergency, the hospitals at near city

(Tansen, Butwal, Pokhara, and Kathmandu) are referred.

GoN declared Nepal open defection free nation (ODF). In the field visit, the study team observed all of households along the reservoir, powerhouse site, surge tank site use toilet for defection. In house sanitation condition was found very well. People seem aware about their in-house and surrounding hygiene.



● Drinking Water The major sources of drinking water for the PADs are personal or public piped water (80.19%),

covered/ uncovered well, spout water, tube-well and others.

Figure 4-23: Source of Water for HH of PADs


e. Migration Patterns

People generally migrate from hilly area to flat area and rural to urban area for better

opportunity of their life. The outer migration is very common in the project area. The young

generations migrating to abroad seeking employment opportunities are common. The gulf

countries like Saudi, Qatar, UAE (Dubai) and in-abroad are the main destination of the migrant

in the project affected area. The general factors leading to migration of the population of the

project affected area include poverty, other natural calamities and seeking for better

opportunities, social services as well as security and other infrastructural facilities.

Figure 4-24: Migration Trend in PADs

Source: Ministry of Labor and Employment (MoLE), 2013/14



g. Gender

Gender equality is a key component of human development, but overall by sector Nepal still

has a gender gap, so as the PADs. The female population exceed the male population; as a

result, the sex ratio is low (78.30) mainly due to the huge outflow of youths from Nepal to

abroad. The female literacy has remarkably increased in the past decades still it is low 69.54%

in PADs whereas the male literacy (85.50%). There has been a rise in female-headed HHs due

to the increase in male migration.

However, economic empowerment of women is still a challenge in PADs. Only 6.18% of female

headed HHs have holding on assets; both house and land and this figure is still low in case of

holding of land only (4.70%) which is very low than the national average (10.71% and 9.00%)

(CBS, 2011). In addition, women's economic activity is still low in non-agriculture sector

(34.23%) possibly due to a lack of education and a tradition of working in agriculture. About

65.77% women of PAD are engaged in agriculture sector, self-employment activities and /or

unpaid family labor.

Table 4-38: Gender Status of the PADs

SN Characteristics Male (%) Female (%)

1 Population 43.37 56.63

2 Agriculture Related Occupation 2.60 67.40

3 Occupation (non-agricultural) 65.77 34.23

4 School Enrolment(5-25 years) 49.45 50.55

5 Literacy Status 48.30 51.70

6 Migrant Population 97.91 2.09

7 Absent Population 91.18 8.82


4.3.1.3 Economic Demography

a. Working Age Population

The population above the age of 15-59 are categorized as the working age population.

According to this classification, the working age population of PAD (age 15-59) is 57.40%,

which is lower than the national average (69.54%). Similarly, there is 42.60% dependent

population on which 33.51% are 15 years and below and 9.09% are senior citizen (sixty years

and above age). A detail of working age population and dependent population is shown below.

Figure 4-25: Working Age Population of PADs



b. Occupation and Employment

The PAD is the hilly region of the county having minimum fertile land and irrigation facilities.

The subsistence farming and rearing livestock are the major occupation of the families for their

livelihood. As a result, large number of youths goes to foreign employment for their livelihood.

Besides, rest of the people is engaged in business, government service, labor, agro-based

industries, livestock and poultry farming etc. Major occupation of the people (10 years and

above) of the PADs is given below.

Table 4-39: Occupation Adopted by the People of PADs

SN Occupation Total % Male % Female %

1 Armed forces 173 0.08 171 98.84 2 1.16

2 Managers 2,466 1.08 1,268 51.42 1,198 48.58

3 Professionals 10,129 4.44 6,411 63.29 3,717 36.70

4 Technicians and associate professional 3,053 1.34 2,209 72.36 843 27.61

5 Office assistance 1,661 0.73 1,124 67.67 538 32.39

6 Service & sale workers 12,809 5.61 7,032 54.90 5,777 45.10

7 Agriculture forestry & fishery workers 166,088 72.76 54,137 32.60 111,952 67.41

8 Craft and related trades workers 15,418 6.75 12,583 81.61 2,835 18.39

9 Plant & machine operators & assemblers

2,892 1.27 2,659 91.94 234 8.09

10 Elementary occupations 11,231 4.92 5,333 47.48 5,898 52.52

11 Others 23,49 1.03 1,637 69.69 713 30.35

Total 228,269 100 94,564 132,994


a. Agriculture

Agriculture is the leading economic activity in PADs. Out of total HHs, about 82.36% in Palpa

District and 83.64% in Syangja District are engaged in agriculture. However, the agricultural

land of PAD is 51.20% of total district land but only 66.91% of total agricultural land is used for

cultivation. (Source: District Profiles). Main limitation factor in agriculture development in PADs

are the lack of irrigation facilities throughout the year (17.06%) and traditional farming practice.

On other hand, large numbers of agriculture labors are in foreign employment. The cropping

patterns depend on factors like land types, soil quality, rain fall pattern, and seasonal variations

of temperature. In the project area paddy, wheat, maize, millets, barley, pulses, mustard are the

most important cereal crops and potato, sugarcane, fruits and vegetables are the major cash

crops (Table 4-22).

Livestock raising (mainly cow, buffalo and goats) is an important subsistence farming activity in

the project area. Livestock provide meat, milk, eggs, wool and a cash income. Livestock is an

integral part of cropping activities producing organic fertilizer. The potential of beekeeping is

high in PADs as there is the availability of local bee in the districts.

Table 4-40: Status of Cultivated Land of the PADs

SN Characteristics Syangja % Palpa % Total %

1 Total Land 116400 100 137300 100 253700 100

2 Agricultural Land 72731 62.48 57172 41.64 129903 51.20

3 Cultivated land 50350 69.23 36567 63.96 86917 66.91

4 Seasonal Irrigation 7040 13.98 4786 13.09 11826 13.61

5 Irrigation throughout the year 10860 21.57 3964 10.84 14824 17.06

6 Total HHs 68881 - 59291 - 128172 -

7 HH engage in Agriculture 57613 83.64 48830 82.36 106443 83.05

Source: District Profile of Palpa and Syangja (2071)



b. Trade and Industries

Major economic centers in the PAD are Tansen bazaar, Bartung, Bhairabsthan, Ridi, Dumre,

Ramdi, Damkada, Kushumkhola of Palpa District and Galyang, Putalibazaar, Waling, Takasera,

Mirmi, Damachaur of Syangja District. Total 2,308 industries are situated in PADs (Palpa 1,347

and Syangja 961). Mainly there are production base industries such as iron, local paper, cotton,

bee farming industries in local level and agriculture and forestry base industries such as

livestock farming, fruit nursery, furniture, Allo and Dhaka processing industries.

c. Tourism Activities

There are some well known natural, cultural and religious sites for tourism attraction in PADs.

Sirubari is the first village in Nepal catering home stay service to tourists. The list of the touristic

places of PADs is given in the table below.

Table 4-41: Major Touristic Places of PADs

SN District Name of the place Location

1

Syangja

Sirubari Panchamul

2 Kaligandaki A HEP Kaligandaki RM

3 Kaligandaki reservoir and Shaligram Thulobagar- Setibeni

4 Panchase Dada Panchase

5 Kailash Gufa Barhakot

6

Palpa

Tansen Darbar Tansen

7 Ranighat Darbar Bougha

8 Argali Darbar Argali

9 Tansen Muldhoka Tansen

10 Khadka Piller Tansen

11 Ramdighat Ramghat


4.3.1.4 Religious, Historical and Archeological Sites

Bhairabsthan and Siddhababa temples of Palpa and Rudrabeni of Syangja are the famous

religious sites among Hindus. In the same way, there are many temples; some Buddhist

monasteries, Muslim mosques and also churches are in PADs. Details of religious and

historical importance sites of PADs is given in Table 4-24

Table 4-42: List of the Religious and Historical Sites of PADs

SN PAD Name of the place Location

1 Syangja Changchangdi Changchangdi

2 Panchase Dada Panchase

3 Kailash Gufa Barhakot

4 Andha-andhi Daha Chilaune

5 Radhadamador Asram Shankhar

6 Chandikalika Putalibasaar

7 Ramdighat Ramdi

8 Alamdevi Alamdevi

9 Garhekot Chatrebhangyang

10 Palpa Bhairabsthan Tansen Municipality

11 Amarnarayan Temple Tansen Municipality

12 Rambhadevi temple Tahun

13 Siddhababa Temple Dovhan

14 Rhushiksheb Temple Arghali

15 Mandhabya Temple Madanpokhara

17 Mahachitya Bihar Prabhas

18 Jama Masjid Tansen




4.3.1.5 Road and Transportation

Infrastructural development (road and transportation development) is the major factor of

development. However, the road facilities in both districts seems to be good. The district

headquarters of Tansen and Putalibazaar, is linked by black topped road, Siddhartha Highway

and there are regular bus services from major cities of country. Almost all places of the district

have linked with rural road. There is no any airport facility in PADs, nearest airports are

Gautambuddha Airport, Bhairahawa and Pokhara—Airport, Pokhara.

4.3.1.6 Cultural Demography

The PAD has diverse ethnic composition. The indigenous caste group Magar and Dalit caste

group are the dominant caste residing in the districts especially in the upper part. Out of total

population, about 36.10% are of Magar community whereas Dalit caste groups are 12.16%.

These communities have their own language, tradition and culture. Having different culture and

tradition, however, they live in the same society with social harmony and brotherhood. There is

no any conflict between them for using common property resources and each community

respect each other's norms and values.

4.3.2 Project Affected Area (PAA/RM/Municipality)

The implementation of proposed SHEP affects two municipalities and two RMs of PADs, two

municipalities; Galyang and Waling of Syangja District and two RMs; Kaligandaki of Syangja

District and Rambha of Palpa District

4.3.2.1 Demographic Characteristics of the PAA

According to the National Population Census 2011, the total population of the project area

(RMs/ municipalities) of proposed AKHEP is 131,173 with 56,889 (43.37%) male and 74,284

(56.63%) female. The female population is higher as compared with the male. The population

of the project area covers only 23.84% of the total population of the PADs (550,328). The total

number of HHs is 30,121 with average HH size 4.35. The average population density of the

project area is 312.78 persons/sq.km, which is higher than the average population density of

the PADs (216.92 persons/sq.km). The population density in Rambha RM is least (214.51

persons/sq.km) and highest in Galyang Municipality (395.86 persons/sq.km) among the PAAs.

Table 4-43: Demographic Characteristic of the PAA

SN R M*/

Municipality

Population Sex

Ratio HHs

Average HH Size

Total area (ha)

Pop. Density

(persons /sq.km)

Total Male Female

1 Rambha * 20,190 8,452 11,738 72.0 4,626 4.36 94.12 214.51

2 Kaligandaki * 21,718 9,372 12,346 75.91 4,972 4.37 73.51 295.44

3 Galyang ** 38,239 16,639 21,113 78.81 8,378 4.56 122.71 311.62

4 Waling ** 50,828 22,426 28,500 78.69 12,145 4.19 128.40 395.86

Total 131,173 56,889 74,284 77.19 30,121 4.35 418.74 312.78

Percentage 100 43.37 56.63 Note: *Rural Municipality and **Municipality


4.3.2.2 Settlements Pattern and Housing Structures

The major settlements in the project area corresponding to respective RMs/municipalities are

shown in Table 4-42. The morphological features of settlements are two forms: scattered and

compacted. Settlements at Andhi Muhan, Shera, Elunga are closely scattered while settlements

at Galayang, Guthi are close.



Table 4-44: List of Major Settlements in the PAA

S. N.

PAD PAA Wards Project Component Settlement

1 Syangja

Galyang Municipality

7,3 Dam Site Motichaur, Galyang


3 Powerhouse/Penstock Balpuk

7 Dewater Aadhi Muhaan

Kaligandaki RM

Beltari Galyang


2,3,4, 7,8

Reservoir

Patekang, Tallo Galyang, Thumpokhara, Senapuk, Gaguwa, Mathillo Galyang, Dudhichaur, Chowk Bhangyan, Elunga, Shera, Charak, jhulange Bayatari

Waling

Municipality 13

Reservoir Waling Municipality

2 Palpa Rambha RM 1 Tailrace Arsaudhi

Source: Field Survey, 2019

Galyang Shera

Picture 4-8: Settlements within the Reservoir Area

The traditional houses are constructed using mud, wood and stones with sloppy roof of stone

and wood. In almost settlements, livestock are kept at the cowshed. Much of the wastewater is

discharged into open drainage system. Poor drainage facilities have created favorable condition

for increment of houseflies which resulted into poor sanitation.



Picture 4-9: Housing Pattern in the Project Affected Area


a. Caste/Ethnicity and Religion

In Nepal the Adivasi Janajati are recognized Indigenous Peoples having their own territory,

language, traditional rites and customs, distinct cultural identity, social structure, and history.

The EIA identified the presence of Adivasi Janajati living in mixed communities within PAA with

the prominent inhabitants of the PAA are Indigenous group-45.90%; Largest community is

Magar which exists (35.03%), Gurung (6.39%), Newar (2.55%) and Gharti/Bhujel (1.16%).

Magars are mostly found in and around PAA; they are considered as disadvantaged ethnic

group. Majhi and Bote (0.45%) have presence in the area. 11.73% are Dalit in the PAA. They

have rich tradition of music and culture. In fact, ethnic group and indigenous, residing in PAA

share the same opportunities including natural resources, economic and political opportunity,

equal rights on constitution. They do not have distinct political institution but culturally different

from the mainstream groups.

Table 4-45: Ethnic Composition in the PAA

SN Caste Category Casts Total Percentage

1

Indigenous

Gurung 7331 6.39

2 Newar 2924 2.55

3 Gharti/Bhujel 1329 1.16

4 Magar 40202 35.03

5 Majhi 236 0.21

6 Bote 275 0.24

7 Thakali 14 0.01

8 Dura 26 0.02

9 Badi 65 0.06

10 Gaine 27 0.02

11 Khawas 245 0.21

Sub-Total 52674 45.90

12

Dalit

Kami 7444 6.49

13 Damai/Dholi 2834 2.47

14 Sarki 3182 2.77

15 Sub-Total 13460 11.73

16

Others (Hill and Terai Caste)

Brahmin Hill 38939 33.93

17 Chhetri 6640 5.79

18 Thakuri 906 0.79

19 Musalman 446 0.39

20 Sanyasi/Dasnami 143 0.12

21 Tharu 126 0.11

22 Kalwar 15 0.01

23 Tarai Others 14 0.01

24 Others 1402 1.22

Sub-Total 48631 42.37

Total 114765 100




b. Language

Majority of the population in the project are speaks Nepali language (60.82%). However, Magar

language is also spoken by a large community (30.6%). Besides these languages, other

languages spoken are Gurung, Newar and others: Population Distribution of the PAA by Mother

Tongue is shown in Figure 4-24.

Figure 4-26: Population Distribution of the PAA by Mother Tongue


c. Education and Literacy

Literacy status is a major indicator to describe quality of life, high literacy rate is good quality of

life value. According to CBS 2011, the total population (5 years and above) of the project area

is 105,386 (91.83% of the total population) with male 42.79% (45,092) and female 57.26%

(60,348). Of the total population 5 years and above, the average literacy rate of the project area

is 75.15% similarly, among male population 86.48% are found literate and 69.9% in female

category.

The field observation shows that most of the people are aware about the education of their

children either boy or girl. This indicates that the educational status of mail is good and female

is satisfactory in project affected RM/municipality. Educations of all levels (primary to college

level) are found in project affected municipality and secondary level education is available in

(primary-12 class) project affected RMs/municipalities. Besides government school, there are

private boarding schools and non-formal educational program also exist in project area.

According to CBS report, the school attainment of age 5-25 is 79.81% with mail (85.7%) and

female (74.72%).

Figure 4-27: Literacy Status of the PAA




Figure 4-28: Status of School Enrolment of Age 5 to 25 Years of Age


There has been a considerable improvement in the educational attainment at all levels of

education over the years. However, a large proportion of the people of PAA have only a basic

level (1-5) and (6-8) of education. Among the population who completed their education, 27.9%

had a basic level (1-5) education followed by 18.5% with basic (6-8) level education and 20.3%

with secondary (9-10) level education. There are only 2% population in PAA achieving graduate

or post graduate level of education. School drop out from the basic level (6-8) and secondary

(9-10) is rare in PAA. There are some population (3.7%), who are not having formal education

from any schools.

Figure 4-29: Educational Attainment (%) of Population 5 years and above


d. Migration

Migration is the common phenomenon of all part of Nepal so as project area. People of the

project area are migrated to urban areas and Terai for better opportunities; better facilities,

employment opportunities, business, medical service and good life style. In the same way, out-

migration (seasonal migration), especially to the neighboring country and abroad (mainly Gulf

countries) in the quest of work is widely seen in the project area. According to CBS (2011), the

absent population of the PAAs is 19,993, which is 17.42% of its total population and 3.63% of

total district population (550,328). The detail of absent population is given in the table below.



Table 4-46: Migrants of PAA

RM/Municipality HHs Absent Population

Total Absent Total Male Female

Rambha RM 4,460 2,493 3,891 3,496 395

Kaligandaki RM 4,972 2,389 3,669 3,346 323

Galyang Municipality 6,882 3,408 5,066 4,637 429

Walin Municipality 10,213 5,190 7,367 6,753 614

Total 26,527 13,480 19,993 18,232 1,761

Percentage 100 50.82 17.42 91.19 8.81


e. Public Health, Drinking Water and Sanitation

The public health condition of the PAA seems to be satisfactory. All the affected

RMs/municipalities have access to health centers with all types of physical facilities. The

primary health care centers are there in each ward, some settlements are little bit far from these

facilities, but these settlements have road access.

The health situation of the project area is satisfactory and water related diseases (diarrhea,

dysentery, influenza, cough/cold, typhoid) and common fever, pneumonia, pox, gastric,

measles, jaundice skin diseases urinary tract infection, chronic bronchitis etc. are still common

here. There is a primary health care center in each ward. The health service in the project area

is delivered through the existing district government hospital, private hospitals, health post, sub-

health post, and clinics which provides local level health services satisfactorily. Traditional

healing by Dhami, Jhankri and Lama is also practiced in the project area. Awareness level

towards health and sanitation (particularly towards safe drinking water, use of toilets etc.) is

satisfactory in the project districts.

Picture 4-10: Drinking Water Sources

Picture 4-11: Toilet Facilities (villages of Project Area)



The major sources of water for domestic purpose of the PAA are personal or public piped water

(77.68%), covered/ uncovered well, spout water, tube-well and others; however, it is observed

from the walkover survey that most of the HHs in the project area use tap/piped water

connected directly to the water sources.

Table 4-47: Water Source of PAA

SN RM/Municipality Total HHS

Water Source of HHs

Piped Covered

Well Uncovered

Well Spout Water

1 Rambha RM 4460 4069 113 88 87

2 Kaligandaki RM 4972 3309 608 412 371

3 Galayang Municipality 6882 5623 232 657 301

4 Waling Municipality 10213 7604 1067 396 1023

Total 26527 20605 2020 1553 1782

Percentage 100 77.68 7.61 5.85 6.72


f. Gender Status

Gender gap was seen in the project area as other parts of Nepal. The sex ratio of the project

area is 76.56% which is a little bit lower than the district level (78.30%), which indicates that a

large portion of male population are migrated to the foreign country for employment opportunity

and thus also increase the burden of workload to female HHs. This has rather feminized the

agriculture system of the project area. The female literacy has remarkably increased in the past

decades still it is low 69.9% than the male literacy (86.48%). There has been a rise in female-

headed HHs in the project area but this is due to the increase in male migration and economic

empowerment of women is still a challenge.

In addition, women's economic activity is still low in non-agriculture sector possibly due to a lack

of education and a tradition of working in agriculture. Their participation is more than that of

men’s in almost all agricultural activities. Livestock keeping is also women’s prime

agricultural activity and the largest amount of women’s micro credit money goes for

livestock raising. In spite of women toiling so hard in agriculture, it is characterized by “below

subsistent” productivity and insufficient even for “own consumption”. The decision making

process on economic activities is exercised by the both male and female. The average daily

wage rate of women for manual works in the project affected area is NRs. 800-1000 which is

slightly low as compared with male NRs. 1000-1200.

Picture 4-12: Economic Activities in Project Affected Area




a. Economically Active Population

CBS 2011 has defined the population of the age group of 10 years to 59 years as economically

active population. According to which, the total population of age 10 to 59 years of the PAA is

calculated to be 79,299 which is 69.10% of the total population of the PAA. Hence, there is

69.10% population categorized as economically active, which is higher than district (57.40%)

and quite similar as national average (69.54%). Similarly, there is 30.90% dependent

population on which 19.78% are 10 years and below and 11.12% are senior citizen (sixty years

and above age).

The child dependency started to decrease as compared to CBS 2001 conversely old age

dependency is increasing. This could be due to the decrease in fertility and mortality rate. A

detail of economically active and inactive population is shown below.

Figure 4-30: Economically active Population of PAA


b. Landuse and Farming

Agriculture is the leading economic activity in project area. But the main limitation in agriculture

development here is water logging by drainage congestion, irrigation shortage and traditional

farming system. The cropping patterns are depended on factors like land types, soil quality,

rainfall pattern, and seasonal variations of temperature. In the project area paddy, wheat,

maize, millets are the most important food crops and oilseed, potato, fruits and vegetables are

the major cash crops.

c. Occupation and Employment

Self-employment is only option to keep oneself as employed. The overwhelming majority of the

local people are employed in the agricultural sector (subsistence farming). Livestock rearing

and rain fed farming are the major agricultural activities of the project area. At the local level,

employment opportunity is very low.

Picture 4-13: Agricultural land in PAA



d. Livestock

Livestock raising for domestic use and income generation is a major economic activity HH of

PAAs. Mainly cow, cattle, buffalo, sheep and goats is an important subsistence farming activity.

Livestock provide meat, milk, eggs, and a cash income. Large livestock are also an integral part

of cropping activities, providing draught power and producing organic fertilizer. Livestock is

grazed on private and communal land.

Horticulture Crops

The project area has vast potentiality of temperate fruits and other high value commodities such as orange, guava, peach, plum, and pear cultivation, including bee farming. e. Tourism Activities and Aesthetic Value

Tourism activities are growing rapidly since last few years in PAA. Project area has lot of

potential of tourism. Aesthetically the project area is attractive. The natural views of the

landscapes of mountains, hills, basins including river systems are amazing. The area is rich in

its wilderness and scenery. Through the project site higher snow picks can be viewed easily.

The view of huge high rocks including green forest sites makes the areas` aesthetic seen

incredible. Kaligandaki A HEP, Tansen Durbar, Ranimahal etc are major attraction for tourists.

f. Income and Expenditure Pattern

a. Income Source

The main income making sources of the people of PAA are agriculture and non-agriculture or

off-farm activities. Agriculture related sources include income from sale of potato, food grains,

fruits, vegetables, livestock and honey farming. Income from agriculture and livestock provides

the subsistence requirements for the families. The off-farm sources of income include service,

business, trade, wage labour, etc. Foreign remittance and pension of Indian army is one of

significant income sources to many HHs in the project area as in other parts of Nepal.

b. Expenditure Pattern

As far as PAA concerned, the level and structures of consumption are more or less similar to

the other part of the country. Most of the expenditure is for the consumption of food items

following education, health, energy and other non-food items.

g. Cottage and Small Industries

The PAA have medium and small scale industries. However, there are few cottage industries

such as Doko-Namlo weaving, fruits processing and furniture carving at small scale in HH level.

Picture 4-14: Different Income Generating Activities in the PAA



h. Fishing Activities

Some local people involve in fishing activity in Aandhi Khola. However, there is no any fishing

community and commercial fishing activities in andhikhola in the project area.

4.3.2.5 Ownership of House

Ownership of house/housing unit is a major indicator to describe quality of life value. Most of

the houses in PAA are kacchi types, brick/stones bonded with mud (75.03%) followed by semi-

kachitypes, brick/stones bonded with cement (22.21%). After development of road facilities new

houses of roadsides are made RCC types.Most of the HH have their own house for resident

(86.93%), 11.68% HH are lives in ranted houses. Some families lives in institutional residence.

4.3.2.6 Market Centers

The major market centers in the PAAs are Mirmi, Galyang (Tallo Galyang, Pari Galyang),

Waling, Jaipate, Batuwa, Aandhi Muhan, Jholunge, Jiro Kilo and Majhuwa.

4.3.2.7 Religious, Historical, and Aesthetic Sites and Value

Shiva Mandir, Chakradevi Mandir, Radha-Krishna Mandir, Church are the major religious

places in PAA.

Picture 4-15: Church, Tallo Galyang and Radha-Krishna Mandir, Elunga

4.3.2.8 Infrastructure and Service Facilities

a. Transportation

Almost all wards of project area is linked with motor-able road. District headquarters of Palpa

and Syangja is linked by black topped road (Siddhartha Highway) and ward level roads are

linked by blacktopped and earthen road, there are regular bus services from major cities. The

inner project areas are also almost accessible by gravel or rural earthen roads. Currently,

government has taken the policy to link the RMs to district headquarter through road thus

makes many rural roads in all RMs. But these roads are almost earthen road and are accessed

only in dry season.



Picture 4-16: Inner Section Road Suspension Bridge and Motor-able Bridge in Project Area

b. Communication

Communication services through mobile and Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) are

available in RMs and municipalities. Similarly, postal and modern communication facilities like

email/internet and fax are available in major settlements. Cable network is accessible in almost

all part of the project area. Radio and Local Frequency Modulation (FM) network is within the

access of public. Local and national newspapers are available in the project area.

● Energy Use for Cooking and Lightning Purpose

The PAA is totally connected with local grid system of BPC. Nepal's highest energy generation

project Kaligandaki-A HEP is located at Kaligandaki RM. However, the Aadhikhola (BPC) HEP

also give service to PAAs. According to Nepal Electrification Statistics, 2019 all the affected

RMs and Municipalities of Syangja District are fully electrified and Rambha RM of Palpa District

is 95.25% electrified. But data of CBS, 2011 there are 90.91% HHs use electricity and 6.78%

HHs use kerosene for lightning.

Figure 4-31: Lightning Fuel Used by HHs of PAA




Figure 4-32: Municipalities/RMs Wise HHs Electrification Status (%), Syangja

Source: Nepal Electrification Statistics, 2019

Figure 4-33: Municipalities/RMs Wise HHs Electrification Status (%), Palpa

Source: Nepal Electrification Statistics, 2019

The main sources of cooking and heating energy is fire wood in the project area. About

78.61% HHs of PAA have been using fuel wood for cooking and heating and remaining 17.36%

use LPG and Kerosene for cooking purpose. The LP gas is mainly used in hotels and some

private HHs of market center.



Figure 4-34: Cooking Fuel Used by HHs of PAA


Picture 4-17: Firewood stored for cooking and heating in PAA

4.3.2.9 Law and Order Situation

The existing law and order situation of the project area was observed to be normal. The District

Administration Office and police office have maintained the law and order in the area.

4.3.2.10 NGO’s and INGO’s Activity

There are many NGOs, clubs, cooperatives, mother groups, etc. are working in the field of

water supply, sanitation, sports, women awareness, saving mobilization and income generating

activities in the project area.

4.3.2.11 Cultural Demography

Like PAD, the PAA has also diverse ethnic composition. The indigenous caste group Magar

and Dalit caste group Kami are the dominant caste residing in the PAA. Out of total population,

about 35.03% are of Magar community whereas Dalit caste groups Kami, Sarki and

Damai/Dholi are about 11.73%. These communities have their own language, tradition and

culture. Having different culture and tradition, however, they live in the same society with social



harmony and brotherhood. There is no any conflict between them for using common property

resources and each community respect each other's norms and values.

In PAA, there is the tradition of doing any social work with mutual participation. For any type of

community development work (eg. to make irrigation canal/ upgrading of local road/ source of

drinking water maintained), one member of every HH need to physically present and contribute

his/her effort. Such cultural practice is call JHARA in local language. If any HH cannot

participate in such social work, he/she has to pay certain price as penalty.

There is another cultural practice in PAA. In agricultural practice, there is not the tradition of

giving cash payment to agricultural labor. The neighbor must go support for his/her neighbor; in

return, his neighbor will come and support him when he needs. This type of cultural practice is

called PARMA in local language.

4.3.3 Project Affected Families (PAFs)

4.3.3.1 Demographic Composition

Among morethen 1200 project affected families, only 1144 Household survey was conducted to

collect socio-economic status of the project affected families (PAFs) that are directly affected by

different components of the project. Morethen 56 HHs were meesing due to absence during

survey time.The total population of surveyed HHs is 6,936 including 3,645 (52.55%) males and

3,291 (47.45%) females. The sex ratio and average HH’s size is 1.11 and 6.1 respectively.

Table below show the demographic features of the PAFs.

Table 4-48: Demographic Features of PAFs

S.

N.

Project

Component

Population Households (HHs)

Male Female Total Sex Ratio Total Average HH Size

1. Reservoir 3,551 3,211 6,762 1.1 1,119 6.0

2. Camp Area (Dam) 94 80 174 1.2 25 7.0

Total/Average 3,645 3,291 6,936 1.1 1,144 6.1

Source: HH Survey, 2019

a. Type of Family

Mixed type (both nuclear and joint) type of family is found among the PAFs. There are 54.9%

HH are of joint type and the rest 45.1% are nuclear type in project area. The classification of

family type is given in the table below.

Table 4-49: Families Structure of the Surveyed HHs

S.N. Caste Type

Nuclear Joint Total HHs

1 Brahmin 173 184 357

2 Chhetri 96 123 219

3 Magar 148 221 369

4 Gurung 14 24 38

5 Newar 20 32 52

6 Dalit 65 40 105

7 Muslim 0 3 3

8 Chepang 0 1 1

Total 516 628 1,144

Percentage (%) 45.1 54.9




b. Marital Status

Of the total 6936 population, 3868 (55.8%) are married and 2962 (42.7%) are unmarried.

Similarly, the population of widow/widower is 106 (1.5%) in the project area. The marital status

of PAFs is given in the table below.

Table 4-50: Distribution of Surveyed Population by Marital Status

S.N. Caste Marital Status

Population Unmarried Married Widow/Widower

1 Brahmin 881 1149 24 2054

2 Chhetri 582 755 15 1352

3 Magar 1013 1291 34 2338

4 Gurung 70 128 7 205

5 Newar 146 207 9 362

6 Dalit 257 315 17 589

7 Muslim 10 20 0 30

8 Chepang 3 3 0 6

Total 2962 3868 106 6936

Percentage (%) 42.7 55.8 1.5



a. Caste/ Ethnic Composition

Higher caste groups Brahmin and Chhetri are dominant inhabitant among PAFs. Among the

surveyed HHs, 50.3% HHs are from the higher caste group followed by Indigenous group

40.2% (Magar, Gurung, Newar, Chepang) and Dalit 9.2%. In the same way, other caste group

(Muslim-0.3%) are residing in the project area. The HHs with percentage composition by

caste/ethnic composition in each project component is shown in table below.

Table 4-51: Caste/ Ethnic Composition of the HHs

S N

Caste

Population % of Total Population

Households % of Total HHs

Male Female Total Sex

Ratio Total

Average HH Size

Indigenous

1 Magar 1222 1116 2338 1.1 33.7 369 6.3 32.3

2 Gurung 102 103 205 1.0 3.0 38 5.4 3.3

3 Newar 185 177 362 1.0 5.2 52 7.0 4.5

4 Chepang 2 4 6 0.5 0.1 1 6.0 0.1

Higher Caste

5 Brahmin 1080 974 2054 1.1 29.6 357 5.8 31.2

6 Chhetri 720 632 1352 1.1 19.5 219 6.2 19.1

Dalit

7 Dalit 316 273 589 1.2 8.5 105 5.6 9.2

Others

8 Muslim 18 12 30 1.5 0.4 3 10.0 0.3

Total (A+B) 3645 3291 6936 1.1 100.0 1144 6.1 100


b. Religion and Mother Tongue

The major religion followed by PAFs is Hinduism followed by Buddhism. Since the PAFs are

dominated by indigenous caste groups and some HHs of these community follow Buddhism,

Buddhism is another major religion among PAFs. One HH is from Muslim religious community.

The detail in each component wise is given in the tables below.



Table 4-52: Distribution of Surveyed HHs by Religion

S.N. Caste

Religion Total HHs

Hindu Buddhist Christian Muslim

HHs % HHs % HHs % HHs %

1 Brahmin 357 100.0 0 - 0 - 0 - 357

2 Chhetri 219 100.0 0 - 0 - 0 - 219

3 Magar 309 83.7 60 16.3 0 - 0 - 369

4 Gurung 33 86.8 5 13.2 0 - 0 - 38

5 Newar 52 100.0 0 - 0 - 0 - 52

6 Dalit 91 86.7 0 - 14 13.3 0 - 105

7 Muslim 0 0.0 0 - 0 - 3 100 3

8 Chepang 1 100.0 0 - 0 - 0 - 1

Total (A+B) 1062 92.8 65 5.7 14 1.2 3 0.26 1144


Nepali is the major language spoken by the surveyed HH, followed by Magar, Newari and

Gurung language. The following table shows the detail of language composition of the

surveyed HHs.

Table 4-53: Distribution of Surveyed HHs by Language

S.N. Caste

Spoken Language

HHs Nepali Magar Newari Gurung

HHs % HHs % HH % HHs %

1 Brahmin 357 100.0 357

2 Chhetri 219 100.0 219

3 Magar 115 31.2 254 68.8 369

4 Gurung 26 68.4 12 31.6 38

5 Newar 14 26.9 38 73.1 52

6 Dalit 105 100.0 105

7 Muslim 3 100.0 3

8 Chepang 1 100.0 1

Total 840 73.4 254 22.2 38 3.3 12 1.0 1144


c. Literacy Status

Average literacy rate of the surveyed population (population of 5 years and above) is around

71.9% with male and female literacy rate are 75.5% and 67.8% respectively. Among the literate

population, the number of populations having intermediate level of education is higher. The

trend of leaving the school after gaining primary level of education is not shown among PAFs.

This is due to awareness towards education. The following tables depict the literacy status and

their education attainment of the surveyed population.

Table 4-54: Literacy Status (Population of 5 years and above) of Surveyed HHs

S. N. Literacy Status Male Female Total

No. % No. % No. %

1 Illiterate 849 24.5 1007 32.2 1856 28.1

2 Literate 2618 75.5 2123 67.8 4741 71.9

Total 3467 100.0 3130 100.0 6597 100.0


Table 4-55: Educational Attainment among the Literate Surveyed Population

S. N. Educational Attainment Male Female Total

No. % No. % No. %

1 Literate only 439 16.8 504 23.7 943 19.9

2 Primary Level 293 11.2 240 11.3 533 11.2

3 Lower Secondary 365 13.9 296 13.9 661 13.9

4 Secondary 485 18.5 340 16.0 825 17.4



5 SLC 241 9.2 165 7.8 406 8.6

6 Intermediate 558 21.3 379 17.9 937 19.8

7 Bachelors 165 6.3 160 7.5 325 6.9

8 Masters and Above 72 2.8 39 1.8 111 2.3

Total 2618 100.0 2123 100.0 4741 100.0


d. Water Supply for Domestic Use

Piped water and public tap are the main sources of water of the surveyed HHs. Majority of the

surveyed HHs use piped water for their domestic need of water. The following table shows the

detail of the sources of water for domestic use by the surveyed HHs.

Table 4-56: Source of Water for Domestic Use

S.N. Caste

Source

Piped Water Public Tap Well River/Stream

HHs % HHs % HHs % HHs %

1 Brahmin 204 57.1 139 38.9 14 3.9

2 Chhetri 110 50.2 102 46.6 7 3.2

3 Magar 175 47.4 177 48.0 12 3.3 5 1.4

4 Gurung 28 73.7 5 13.2 5 13.2

5 Newar 24 46.2 24 46.2 2 3.8 2 3.8

6 Dalit 58 55.2 40 38.1 7 6.7

7 Muslim 3 100.0

8 Chepang 1 100.0

Total 603 52.7 487 42.6 47 4.1 7 0.6


e. Health and Sanitation Condition

The public health condition of the surveyed HHs is seemed satisfactory. Since the reservoir and

dam area are the urban/semi urban and rural area, it have physical facilities. There are primary

health care center, hospital and health posts.

Almost surveyed HHs are aware about their hygiene and conscious towards hygiene related

problems hence in-house and surrounding sanitation and hygiene condition is found

satisfactory. Not all of the surveyed HHs are using toilets/latrines.

About 16.4% of surveyed HHs burn their solid waste, where around 73.4% dump at safe

location. Table below shows solid waste management practiced by PAFs.

Table 4-57: Methods of Solid Waste Disposal among PAFs

S.N. Caste

Location

Dump at Safe Location Burn Bury

HHs % HHs % HHs %

1 Brahmin 281 78.7 42 11.8 34 9.5

2 Chhetri 164 74.9 34 15.5 21 9.6

3 Magar 246 66.7 80 21.7 43 11.7

4 Gurung 30 78.9 5 13.2 3 7.9

5 Newar 39 75.0 9 17.3 4 7.7

6 Dalit 76 72.4 18 17.1 11 10.5

7 Muslim 3 100.0 0 0.0 0 0.0

8 Chepang 1 100.0 0 0.0 0 0.0

Total 840 73.4 188 16.4 116 10.1





a. Working Age Population

According to the broad age group classification, 71.4% of the population in the project area is

categorized as working age population. Similarly, the dependent population (including

population up to 0-14 years and senior citizen 60 years and above) is 28.6%.

Table 4-58: Distribution of Population by Broad Age Groups

S.N. Caste Upto 14 Years 15 - 59 Yrs 60 & Above

Male Female Total Male Female Total Male Female Total

1 Brahmin 179 164 343 747 681 1428 154 129 283

2 Chhetri 98 74 172 529 467 996 93 91 184

3 Magar 175 167 342 892 787 1679 155 162 317

4 Gurung 18 13 31 69 73 142 15 17 32

5 Newar 34 36 70 123 117 240 28 24 52

6 Dalit 70 64 134 224 185 409 22 24 46

7 Muslim 2 0 2 15 11 26 1 1 2

8 Chepang 0 0 0 2 4 6 0 0 0

Total 576 518 1094 2601 2325 4926 468 448 916

Percentage (%) 15.8 15.7 15.8 71.4 70.6 71.0 12.8 13.6 13.2


b. Occupation

Agriculture including animal husbandry is the main occupation of the surveyed HH. Beside

agriculture, foreign employment and labor wage inside the country are other major occupation

of the PAFs. The detail of occupational composition of surveyed HHs of the project area is

given in table below.

Table 4-59: Occupational Composition of Surveyed Population (14 to 59 years)

S.N. Major Occupation Male Female Total

No. % No. % No. %

1 Agriculture including Animal Husbandry

1354 49.7 1587 64.5 2941 56.8

2 Business and Small Industry

158 5.8 115 1.5 273 5.3

3 Skilled Labour 51 1.9 10 61 1.2

4 Unskilled Labour 39 1.4 5 4.8 44 0.8

5 Foreign Employment 459 16.9 79 3 538 10.4

6 Service 251 9.2 81 1.8 332 6.4

7 Teaching 35 1.3 48 1.3 83 1.6

8 Student 368 13.5 364 16.6 732 14.1

9 Household Work 7 0.3 171 7.1 178 3.4

Total 2722 100 2460 100 5182 100


c. Land Holding by Land Type

Surveyed HHs have been classified based on different landholding categories such as

marginal, small, medium, and large. Majority of the HHs (60.7%) are categorized as small type

having land 0.5 ha to 2.0 ha whereas 10% are classified as marginal HH with land holding size

of below 0.5ha. Similarly, 22.5% of HHs as medium type families having land 2.0ha to 4.0ha

and 6.8% of HHs as large type with land more than 4.0 ha. The following tables show the HHs

having land based on holding size and category.

Table 4-60: Distribution of Surveyed HHs by Landholding size

S.N.

Landholding Categories HHs Total Landholding

Category Size of Holding (ha) No. Percentage Area (ha)

Percentage (%)

1 Marginal Upto 0.5 683 59.7 70.36 10.0

2 Small 0-5 - 1.0 189 16.5 134.47 19.2



1.0 - 1.5 135 11.8 167.63 23.9

1.5-2.0 72 6.3 123.34 17.6

3 Medium 2.0-4.0 58 5.1 157.59 22.5

4 Large > 4.0 ha 7 0.6 47.92 6.8

Total 1144 100.0 701.31 100.0

Source: HH Survey,2019

Table 4-61: Landholdings of the HHs by Type of Land

S.N. Caste

Type of Land

Avg/HH

Khet (ha.) Bari (ha.) Gharbari (ha.) Kharbari (ha.)

1 Brahmin 0.128 0.189 0.037 0.133 0.487

2 Chhetri 0.120 0.275 0.059 0.307 0.761

3 Magar 0.187 0.227 0.046 0.325 0.785

4 Gurung 0.001 0.010 0.026 0.027 0.064

5 Newar 0.136 0.204 0.037 0.383 0.759

6 Dalit 0.015 0.014 0.006 0.043 0.078

7 Muslim 0.000 0.072 0.075 0.002 0.149

8 Chepang 0.000 0.000 0.025 0.000 0.025

Average 0.131 0.196 0.041 0.227 0.595

Source: HH Survey,2019

d. Agriculture and Livestock

Paddy, maize, wheat and pulses (lentils) are the main crops grown by the PAFs. Paddy, Maize,

Potato and wheat are the main crops grown especially on the upper part and reservoir area.

The distribution of crops, production and yield is shown in the table below.

Table 4-62: Crop Area Coverage, Production and Yield of Surveyed HHs

Description Major Crops

Paddy Maize Wheat Potato Lentils

Total Cropped Area (Ha) 70.3 51.3 46.31 4.1 13.3

Total Production (MT) 181.6 113.0 74.1 17.8 18.6

Yield (MT/ha) 2.6 2.2 1.6 4.3 1.4


Cow, buffalo, pigs are main domesticated animals owned by the surveyed HHs. Majority of the HHs of the who lives village area of project have their own livestock. The distribution of HHs having livestock or not in each project components is given in the following table:

Table 4-63: HHs having Livestock in the Project Area

S.N. Caste Livestock

Yes No Total No. of HHs

1 Brahmin 211 146 357

2 Chhetri 154 65 219

3 Magar 238 131 369

4 Gurung 14 24 38

5 Newar 33 19 52

6 Dalit 24 81 105

7 Muslim 0 3 3

8 Chepang 1 0 1

Toal 675 469 1144

Percentage 59.0 41.0


e. Food Sufficiency and Deficiency

The HHs survey indicates that majority of the surveyed HHs have food deficiency. Since the

project area is hill area with less fertile land and lack of sufficient irrigation facility, the

productivity is also less. These people do not have the knowledge of farming new product. They

all depend upon their traditional pattern of farming. The production of it is not enough to sustain

for whole family of PAFs during whole year. Livestock rearing is another means of sustainability



of the PAFs. HHs, who have the food deficiency, generally do the supporting works like labor

wage and small business. Local people reported that at least of one member of PAFs go to the

abroad, during off-season of farming to earn some money. The following tables show the detail

of the sufficiency and deficiency of food of the PAFs.

Table 4-64: Food Sufficiency of the HHs by Own Production

S.N. Caste Food Sufficiency


1 Brahmin 175 182 357

2 Chhetri 80 139 219

3 Magar 111 258 369

4 Gurung 20 18 38

5 Newar 15 37 52

6 Dalit 11 94 105

7 Muslim 1 2 3

8 Chepang 0 1 1

Toal 413 731 1144



The table below describe the detail of food deficiency of HHs by their own production.

Table 4-65: Food Deficiency of the HHs by Own Production

S.N. Caste Food Deficit Month HHs

< 3 3-5 6-9 > 9

1 Brahmin 22 33 74 53 182

2 Chhetri 19 44 64 12 139

3 Magar 23 49 151 35 258

4 Gurung 2 4 11 1 18

5 Newar 3 12 19 3 37

6 Dalit 1 15 71 7 94

7 Muslim 0 1 1 0 2

8 Chepang 0 0 1 0 1

Total 70 158 392 111 731

Percentage 9.6 21.6 53.6 15.2

Source: Field Survey, 2019 f. Status of Loan

One major component to see the socio-economic condition of the surveyed HH is their loan

status. HH survey shows that most of the HHs have the burden of loan. Since, living standard

of these people is low and their agriculture production is not enough for their livelihood, they

take loans for fulfilling their daily needs. These people take loans for different purpose (daily

livelihood, education, health treatment, marriage/ritual and food/ clothing etc.) Among the HHs

who have the burden of loan, majority of them take loans for meeting their daily basic needs.

Table 4-66: HHs having Loan

S.N. Caste HHs With Debt


1 Brahmin 201 156 357

2 Chhetri 131 88 219

3 Magar 250 119 369

4 Gurung 21 17 38

5 Newar 24 28 52

6 Dalit 62 43 105

7 Muslim 1 2 3

8 Chepang 0 1 1

Toal 690 454 1144





g. Business/Cottage Industry

Very few HHs among surveyed HHs have their own business while other do not have. The

business of these HHs are mainly of small goods shop (kirana pasal), hotels, tea shops, beauty

parlours etc. The HHs who don’t have any business, either depend upon agriculture or other

sources such as foreign employment or labor wage or pension. Table below shows the

surveyed HHs and their dependency on business.

Table 4-67: Dependency on Business

S.N. Caste

Business/Cottage Industry

Yes No Total No. of

HHs

1 Brahmin 76 281 357

2 Chhetri 30 189 219

3 Magar 29 340 369

4 Gurung 8 30 38

5 Newar 14 38 52

6 Dalit 21 84 105

7 Muslim 3 0 3

8 Chepang 0 1 1

Total 181 963 1144



h. Income and Expenditure Patterns

The average annual income of the surveyed HHs is estimated to be NRs. 309,540. The source

of income is agriculture as well as non-agriculture sector. Non-agriculture sector consists

service, business, daily wage, remittance and pension/old-age pension. Among the different

sources of income, non-agriculture contributes about 58.4%. Income from agriculture and

livestock contribute 41.6% respectively. The average annual income from different sources of

the surveyed is given in the following table.

Table 4-68: Average annual income of Surveyed HHs

S.N. Income Source Average %

1 Agriculture and animal husbandry Income

123870 39.9

2 Service 20148 6.5

3 Business 23494 7.6

4 Daily Wages/Porter 33050 10.6

5 Pension/Old-age Pension 12570 4

6 Remittance 96408 31

Total Average Income 309,540 100


Table 4-69: Category of Income of surveyed HHs

S.N. Caste

Annual Average Income from Different Sources

Agriculture Non-Agriculture Total

NRs. % NRs. % NRs. %

1 Brahmin 124332 40 186369 60 310701 100

2 Chhetri 146163 44.4 183282 55.6 329445 100

3 Magar 127665 39.5 195931 60.5 323596 100

4 Gurung 108042 38.1 175711 61.9 283753 100

5 Newar 122080 38.5 195420 61.5 317500 100

6 Dalit 136925 44.9 168185 55.1 305110 100

7 Muslim 127238 42.6 171413 57.4 298651 100

8 Chepang 85104 28.5 213871 71.5 298975 100

Average 123870 40.0 185670 60.0 309540




Similarly, the average annual expenditure of surveyed HHs is estimated to be NRs. 298,433.

Food items, clothing, education, festivals, livestock and farming, communication and

transportation, health and fuel are the main expenditure items of the surveyed HHs.

Table 4-70: Average annual Expenditure of the PAFs

Caste

Expenditure Heading (%) Expense

(NRs) Food Cloth Education Medicine Festival Fuel Communication Transport

Brahmin 46 13.9 18.3 2.4 7.4 4.2 2.7 5.2 297538

Chhetri 40.7 15.6 21.6 2.4 8.8 3.8 2.2 4.9 327528

Magar 40.3 15.7 22.3 2.6 9.4 4 1.7 4 298283

Gurung 54.3 14.8 17.5 2.6 6.5 2.3 0.3 1.7 274832

Newar 42.5 17.3 19.3 1.9 7.2 5.3 1.9 4.6 310245

Dalit 40.6 16.8 20.6 2.7 7.7 6.2 1.3 4.1 298,433

Muslim 49.2 14.3 19.4 2.5 6.7 3.6 0.6 3.7 295214

Chepang 52.3 14.1 18.1 2.2 6.5 2.3 2.8 1.7 285843

Average %

44.5 15.3 19.8 2.4 7.8 4.4 1.8 4.1 294447


4.3.3.4 Source Energy

a. Lighting

Since the project area is connected with national grid system, almost settlements of project

area are electrified.

b. Cooking

Majority of HHs of project area use fuel wood (51.2%) for cooking food followed by LPG

(37.2%). Few HHs use electricity for cooking purpose. People assemble fuel wood from

community/government forest and private forest. The source of energy and assemble sources

adopted by the surveyed HHs in each project components is shown in the following tables.

Table 4-71: Sources of Energy for the HHs for cooking purpose

S.N. Caste

Source

Fuel wood LPG Electricity

HHs % HHs % HHs %

1 Brahmin 199 55.7 104 29.1 54 15.1

2 Chhetri 131 59.8 73 33.3 15 6.8

3 Magar 190 51.5 137 37.1 42 11.4

4 Gurung 12 31.6 18 47.4 8 21.1

5 Newar 19 36.5 32 61.5 1 1.9

6 Dalit 34 32.4 59 56.2 12 11.4

7 Muslim 0 0.0 3 100.0 0 0.0

8 Chepang 1 100.0 0 0.0 0 0.0

Total 586 51.2 426 37.2 132 11.5


Table 4-72: Assemble Source of Fuel Wood of the HHs

S.N. Caste

Source

Community/ /Gov. Forest Private Forest Purchase

HHs % HHs % HHs %

1 Brahmin 86 43.2 102 51.3 11 5.5

2 Chhetri 29 22.1 81 61.8 21 16.0

3 Magar 51 26.8 99 52.1 40 21.1

4 Gurung 3 25.0 7 58.3 2 16.7

5 Newar 7 36.8 10 52.6 2 10.5

6 Dalit 16 47.1 17 50.0 1 2.9

7 Muslim 0 0 100.0

8 Chepang 1 100.0 0 0.0 0 0.0

Total 193 32.9 316 53.9 77 13.1




4.3.3.5 Description of the House

(a) By Wall Type

All of the surveyed HHs have their own house for residence. The wall of types of surveyed HHs

usually constructed with mud and stone brick, wooden wall and cement and stone/brick. Details

is given in the following table.

Table 4-73: Houses by Type of Wall

S.N. Caste

Wall Type

Cement & Stone/Bricks Mud and Stone Bricks Wooden Wall

1 Brahmin 87 249 21

2 Chhetri 75 137 7

3 Magar 106 252 11

4 Gurung 23 15 0

5 Newar 12 38 2

6 Dalit 41 50 14

7 Muslim 2 1 0

8 Chepang 0 1 0

Total 346 743 55

Percentage 30.2 64.9 4.8


(b) By Floor Type

Mud, cement and wood are generally used on floor by the surveyed HHs. The detail is as

shown in the tables below.

Table 4-74: Houses by Floor type

S.N. Caste Floor Type

Mud Cement Wooden

1 Brahmin 159 166 32

2 Chhetri 69 122 28

3 Magar 127 201 41

4 Gurung 9 21 8

5 Newar 25 27 0

6 Dalit 65 33 7

7 Muslim 3 0 0

8 Chepang 1 0 0

Total 458 570 116



(c) By Roof Type

Majority of the surveyed HHs use zinc plates in their roof. Besides thatched and also RCC is

used by the HHs, as shown in the table below.

Table 4-75: Houses by Roof Type

S.N. Caste Roof Type

Thatched Zinc Plates RCC Stone

1 Brahmin 33 187 96 41

2 Chhetri 14 118 66 21

3 Magar 24 246 74 25

4 Gurung 2 21 12 3

5 Newar 6 24 19 3

6 Dalit 18 63 22 2

7 Muslim 0 0 3 0

8 Chepang 0 1 0 0

Total 97 660 292 95

Percentage 8.5 57.7 25.5 8.3




(d) By Number of Story

Two stories houses are common among the surveyed HHs. About 56.6% of the HHs have their

house with two stories.

Table 4-76: Houses by No. of Stories

S.N. Caste No. of Stories

One Two Three

1 Brahmin 77 187 93

2 Chhetri 35 135 49

3 Magar 68 214 87

4 Gurung 3 20 15

5 Newar 6 36 10

6 Dalit 20 54 31

7 Muslim 0 0 3

8 Chepang 0 1 0

Total 209 647 288



4.3.3.6 Attitude towards the Project

Majority of HHs knew about the proposed project. The main sources of knowledge about the

project are project officials, neighbors, newspaper and others. Among surveyed HHs, around

68.3% have positive attitude, whereas around 3.3% are negative, 14.6% are neutral and

around 13.8% HH have not detail information about project. However, the HHs who are positive

towards the development project, have also reluctant to their displacement and rehabilitation.

Table below shows the attitude towards the project.

Table 4-77: Attitude Regarding the Project by Type

S.N. Caste

Type

Positive Negative Neutral Have no

Information

1 Brahmin 256 11 45 45

2 Chhetri 168 7 23 21

3 Magar 235 16 62 56

4 Gurung 32 0 3 3

5 Newar 30 0 13 9

6 Dalit 56 4 21 24

7 Muslim 3 0 0 0

8 Chepang 1 0 0 0

Total 781 38 167 158

Percentage 68.3 3.3 14.6 13.8

Source: Field Survey, 2019 4.3.3.7 Expectation from the Project

About 50.1% of the surveyed HHs expect fair compensation for the loss of land and properties.

Similarly, 31.3% of the HHs expressed their desire for employment opportunity, 9.7%

demanded for their share in project and 8.9% show their opinion towards the local development

as shown in the following table.

Table 4-78: Expectation from the Project

S.N. Caste

Expectation

Good Compensation

Employment Share in Project

Local Development

1 Brahmin 135 111 56 55

2 Chhetri 109 89 14 7

3 Magar 228 103 23 15

4 Gurung 12 13 4 9

5 Newar 34 8 3 7

6 Dalit 54 31 11 9

7 Muslim 0 3 0 0

8 Chepang 1 0 0 0

Total 573 358 111 102

Percentage 50.1 31.3 9.7 8.9




4.3.3.8 Readiness for Relocation

Out of the total surveyed HHs, 86.1% have shown willingness for relocation whereas 5.5% are

not sure about it. However, 8.4 of the total surveyed HHs have shown no willingness for

relocation as depicted by the following table.

Table 4-79: Households Willingness to Relocate in Other Places

S.N. Caste Readiness

Yes No Not Sure

1 Brahmin 319 26 12

2 Chhetri 182 23 14

3 Magar 328 29 12

4 Gurung 35 0 3

5 Newar 33 11 8

6 Dalit 84 7 14

7 Muslim 3 0 0

8 Chepang 1 0 0

Total 985 96 63



The majority (60.4%) of the 58 HHs do not want to leave their place and thus have shown no

willingness for relocation. Similarly, the other reasons for unwillingness to relocate is that the

HHs either do not want to leave their community or their do have property only in this area as

shown in the following table.

Table 4-80: Reason for Unwillingness to Relocate in Other Places

S.N.

Reasons No. of HHs Percentage

1 Does not want to leave Birth Place 58 60.4

2 Loss of Business 17 17.7

3 Structure is not affected 21 21.9

Total 96 100.0


4.3.3.9 Preferred Place for Relocation

The majority of the HHs willing to go for relocation have asked for the nearby suitable area with

availability of physical infrastructure facilities and good environment. However, 12.2% (106

HHs) have preferred other districts for relocation.

4.3.4 Baseline Information of The Indigenous People (IPs)

• Demography

According to the HHs survey 2019, four indigenous groups are reported at project area. These

groups are Magar, Gurung, Newar and Chepang. Total population of the indigenous people is

2911 with 1511 (51.91%) male and 1400 (48.09%) female. The male population is higher as

compared with the female population. The population of the indigenous population covers only

41.97% of the total affected population. The total number of HHs is 460 with average HH size

6.3.

Table 4-81: Demographic Features of PAIPs

S N Caste

Population Households

Male Female Total Sex

Ratio Total Average HH Size

Indigenous

1 Magar 1222 1116 2338 1.1 369 6.3

2 Gurung 102 103 205 1.00 38 5.4

3 Newar 185 177 362 1.00 52 7

4 Chepang 2 4 6 0.5 1 6

1511 1400 2911 1.1 460 6.3




According to the broad age group classification, 71.0% of the IPs population in the project area

is categorized as working age population. Similarly, the dependent population (including

population up to 0-14 years and senior citizen 60 years and above) is 29.0%.

Table 4-82: Distribution of Population by Broad Age Groups

S.N. Caste Upto 14 Years 15 - 59 Yrs 60 & Above

Male Female Total Male Female Total Male Female Total

1 Magar 175 167 342 892 787 1679 155 162 317

2 Gurung 18 13 31 69 73 142 15 17 32

3 Newar 34 36 70 123 117 240 28 24 52

4 Chepang 0 0 0 2 4 6 0 0 0

Total : 227 216 443 1086 981 2067 198 203 401

Percentage (%) 15.0 15.4 15.2 71.9 70.1 71.0 13.1 14.5 13.8


• Spoken Language

Magar (55.22%) is the major language spoken by the IPs. However, some people speak their

own ethnic languages– Newar and Gurung. A huge group of IPs use Napali (33.91%) language

for communicate.

Table 4-83: Distribution of Surveyed IPs by Language

S.N. Caste

Spoken Language

Nepali Magar Newari Gurung

HHs % HHs % HH % HHs %

3 Magar 115 73.718 254 100 - - - -

4 Gurung 26 16.667 - - - 12 100

5 Newar 14 8.9744 - - 38 100 - -

8 Chepang 1 0.641 - - - - - -

Total 156 33.91 254 55.22 38 8.26 12 2.61


• Educational Status of IPs

The literacy rate of the IPs is 65.27% which is lower than total FAFs (71.9%). This is due to the

lack of awareness towards education. Now a days, the level of awareness has increased and

the people of the area are sending their children (either boys or girls) to school for education.

Table 4-84: Educational Attainment among the Literate Surveyed Population

S. N.

Educational Attainment

Male Female Total

No. % No. % No. %

1 Literate only 153 14.4 189 21.8 342 17.7

2 Primary Level 123 11.6 114 13.1 237 12.3

3 Lower Secondary 169 15.9 128 14.7 297 15.4

4 Secondary 219 20.6 146 16.8 365 18.9

5 SLC 105 9.9 69 7.9 174 9.0

6 Intermediate 232 21.8 160 18.4 392 20.3

7 Bachelors 47 4.4 50 5.8 97 5.0

8 Masters and Above 15 1.4 12 1.4 27 1.4

Total: 1063 100.0 868 100.0 1931 100.0


• Occupational Composition of Surveyed IPs Population

During the field survey, it was observed that the main sources income of the IPs of project area

are agriculture farming and livestock raising. The project area is famous for citrus farming.

Since the production from their agricultural land is not enough for their livelihood, it is seemed

that most of the male members of the affected wards are migrated to the neighboring country

India in the quest of work.



Table 4-85: Occupational Composition of Surveyed Population (14 to 59 years)

S.N. Major Occupation Male Female Total

No. % No. % No. %

1 Agriculture including Animal Husbandry

588 53.4 716 71.2 1304 61.9

2 Business and Small Industry 35 3.2 29 2.9 64 3.0

3 Skilled Labour 25 2.3 5 0.5 30 1.4

4 Unskilled Labour 27 2.5 2 0.2 29 1.4

5 Foreign Employment 182 16.5 35 3.5 217 10.3

6 Service 107 9.7 23 2.3 130 6.2

7 Teaching 13 1.2 17 1.7 30 1.4

8 Student 121 11 127 12.6 248 11.8

9 Household Work 3 0.3 51 5.1 54 2.6

Total: 1101 100 1005 100.0 2106 100.0


• Land Holding

Surveyed IPs have been classified based on different landholding categories such as marginal,

small, medium, and large. Majority of the HHs (59.1%) are categorized as small type having

land 0.5 ha to 2.0 ha. The following tables show the HHs having land based on holding size and

category.

Table 4-86: Distribution of Households by Size of Landholdings

S.N.

Landholding Categories HHs Total Landholding

Category Size of Holding (ha) No. Percentage Area (ha)

Percentage

1 Marginal Upto 0.5 248 53.9 31.21 9.2

2 Small

0-5 - 1.0 73 15.9 52.85 15.6

1.0 - 1.5 66 14.3 80.82 23.8

1.5-2.0 39 8.5 66.75 19.7

3 Medium 2.0-4.0 31 6.7 85.19 25.1

4 Large > 4.0 ha 3 0.7 22.52 6.6

Total 460 100.0 339.34 100.0 Source: HH Survey, 2019

• Food Sufficiency and Deficiency

The survey indicates that majority of the surveyed IPs have food deficiency. Since the project

area is hill area with less fertile land and lack of sufficient irrigation facility. These people do not

have the knowledge of farming new product. They all depend upon their traditional pattern of

farming. Livestock rearing is another means of sustainability of the IPs. HHs, who have the food

deficiency, generally do the supporting works like labor wage and small business. Local people

reported that at least of one member of IPs go to the abroad, during off-season of farming to

earn some money. The following tables show the detail of the sufficiency and deficiency of food

of the IPs.

Table 4-87: Food Sufficiency of the HHs by Own Production

S.N. Caste Food Sufficiency


1 Magar 111 258 369

2 Gurung 20 18 38

3 Newar 15 37 52

4 Chepang 0 1 1

Total 146 314 460


Table 4-88: Food Deficiency of the HHs by Own Production

S.N. Caste Food Deficit Month

< 3 3-5 6-9 > 9

1 Magar 23 49 151 35

2 Gurung 2 4 11 1

3 Newar 3 12 19 3

4 Chepang 0 0 1 0

Total 28 65 182 39

Percentage 8.9 20.7 58.0 12.4 Source: HH Survey, 2019

Andhikhola Storage HEP (180 MW) Environmental Impacts


5 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS

This chapter addresses the likely adverse as well as beneficial impacts in the construction and

operation phase of the AKSHEP. Other Adverse and beneficial Impacts on physical, biological,

and socio-economic and cultural environment that are not anticipated and identified during the

EIA, if it appears during the period of project construction, will be duly and compulsorily taken

into account and addressed by the project proponent. The construction and operation of the

project will result in changes to the existing baseline condition. The general discussions are

organized in three categories: namely physical, biological, socio-economic, and cultural

environment, and divided into the construction and operation phases. The beneficial impacts

are discussed under a separate heading.

5.1 Physical Environment The main physical impacts on the environment, those associated with land stability, hydrology,

river morphology, air noise and water quality and other issues, which were identified during the

scoping phase are important issues considered in the EIA. The major impacts anticipated

during the construction and operation phase are discussed in the sections below.

5.1.1 Construction Phase

5.1.1.1 Impact on Topography

Project components include the construction of dam, powerhouse, surge tank, spoil and muck

disposal site, access road, etc. The construction of these components will certainly change

topography as these works involved clearing vegetation, excavation and another earthwork. At

headwork, construction of dam and diversion dam will create an impoundment at its backside.

The construction of other project components like labor camp and other project facilities will

change in landscape. In addition to this, construction of access road, muck disposal area,

stockpiling area, quarry sites etc. also make changes in landscape of local area. The visualized

impact on topographic changes is considered to be direct in nature, medium in magnitude, site

specific and for long term.

5.1.1.2 Impact on Land Use and Land Take

The project needs land for the construction of physical infrastructure and formation of reservoir.

Hence, project will be acquired land permanently for permanent structures and reservoir area.

The permanent land acquisition will be about 913.00 ha. The permanent land acquisition will be

significant because land taken is irreversible and will be taken for the entire project period. In

addition to this, project will be required land for labor camps, quarry sites, spoil and muck

disposal area and other purposes, which will be acquired temporarily on lease and return to

owner after completion of works. The temporarily land acquisition will be about 52.82 ha.

Approximately 965.82 ha of land use will be permanently and temporary changes during the

construction and operation period of project. A land use change will occur in approximately

276.70 ha agriculture land and 17.76 ha of forestland including government forest and

community forest. Approximately 442.66 ha private Kharbari in form of grassland and bush will

be impacted during operation period of project. Nearly 168.02 ha of other land will be impacted

which include riverine flood plain. During construction period total land will not be affected

because major land of project lies in reservoir area which will be utilized in operation period

only. The impact on land use during construction period will be direct, high in magnitude, long

term in nature and site specific.



5.1.1.3 Impact on Air and Noise Quality

During construction period, there will be use of heavy equipment, use of crushing machines,

vibrating machine etc. for excavation of earth and construction of project component that can

generate significant amount of dust into atmosphere. The movement of vehicles to transport

construction materials from quarry site to construction site, transport muck to safe disposal

area, transport external material to construction site etc. will also generate dust resulting air

pollution. The tunneling works such as drilling, blasting will also generate high amount of dust.

As the construction work will be carried out during dry season, emission of dust is expected to

be high at the construction sites. Construction activities will also generate noise and vibration at

the project site. The main activities that will generate noise and vibration are blasting, use of

batching plants, movement of heavy equipment, use of drilling, generators, pumps, etc.

Construction of project is likely to influence the existing condition of air and noise level and

affecting human, wildlife and livestock of the project area. As the project construction site is far

away from major human settlement near to the forest major impact will be on wild animals.

Thus, the nature of the impact will be direct, medium magnitude, medium term and local.

5.1.1.4 Impact on Water Quality

Construction activities of project components will have direct and indirect effect on the water

quality of Andhakhola. Construction of project components like dam, intake directly effect on the

riverbed and river bank either by additional external material or by disposal of surplus materials.

Similarly, while constructing tunnel and powerhouse unwanted water will be disposed to nearby

water course which will ultimately polluted the nearby water bodies.

Quarry site is proposed within the reservoir area, thus the river will bear the impact. Similarly,

muck disposal area are also proposed near to the bank of river and hillside slope. During

monsoon season, rain water erode and transport disposal material from these area into nearby

river. This will affect the quality of water. In addition to this improper management of waste,

both solid and liquid, generated by workforce directly or indirectly involved in the project will

result in increased BOD and ultimately degrade the quality of water.

Project construction activities are likely to increase the turbidity, suspended solids, dissolved

solids and BOD of both rivers and nearby watercourse. This might have an adverse impact on

the aquatic life of the river and the public health of the local people of downstream of project

area. However, the impact on public health will not be served as people in the area do not use

river water for drinking purpose. Thus the impact on water quality will be direct, medium in

magnitude, medium term and local.

5.1.1.5 Impact in Hydrology and River Morphology

During construction phase there will be hardly impact on the hydrology river. The use of water

in the construction work and in labor camps will have little impact on the flow volume.

Construction of intake, dam, and adit portal requires some diversion of river. Minor change in

riverbed morphology is expected. Similarly, excavation of construction materials from riverbed

may lowered and may change its course within the limits of river. Thus, the impact on hydrology

and river morphology is expected to be direct, low in magnitude, short term and site specific.

5.1.1.6 Impact on Soil Erosion and Land Stability

The project mainly consists of construction of dam, intake, tunnel, powerhouse, access road,

and surge tank. These activities required excavation of earthwork either on the surface or

beneath the surface. Dam, intake, and powerhouse sites are proposed on stable area where



quite sound geological strata are available. Thus, there is low risk in soil erosion and land

stability during construction of these activities. However, during construction of access road cut

slope as well as fill slope has high risk in soil erosion and landslide. The activities promoting

excessive soil erosion and land instability in construction phase is mainly related to the

construction of access road.

a. Main Access Road Construction

The main access road to connect powerhouse and dam site passes through relatively stable

land to steeper forestland. Since the section of road, involve cutting of slopes in agricultural

land, private barren land and forestland soil erosion, minor erosion of is expected. Road

construction practice with balance cutting and filling can be adopted in some section of road to

avoid associated consequences risk. However, spoil disposal in the adjacent agriculture fields

and forest may degrade agricultural land and standing vegetation of forestland.

b. Secondary Access Road Construction

The adit-2 access road passes through the mild slope to steep terrain with stable geology and

landform. Road construction in these relatively steep areas means mostly cutting of the slope

material to excavate the road’s formation width. Cutting of the steep slope thus increase the risk

of slope instability and potential of small to large scale mass wasting. Disposal of excess

excavation spoils immediately below the cut slopes is expected to cause extensive degradation

of the standing down slope vegetation making the slope suitable for erosion. Agricultural areas

down slope the road are potential for sedimentation and siltation and may convert in barren

area unsuited for agriculture.

In rainy season, disposal material may be transported by water to the down valley land and

nearby water bodies, which may create problem in the gross agricultural productivity,

sedimentation in down valley land and streams.

c. Quarry and Barrow Pit

As quarry sites and borrow pit areas are purely excavation works it may has a high potentials of

erosion in the excavation sites and sedimentation in the nearby drainage channels. Quarry site

for construction of dam is proposed in uphill side of dam axis. Erosion and sedimentation is

expected during rainy season and degradation of the down valley land. As there is no

settlement in down valley, impact is expected to be low.

For quarry site of sand, bed material of Kligandaki river at Asardi is proposed. Excavation of

riverbed material likely to lowers the level bed of river. Since considerable volume of material is

available in floor of valley and river, adverse impact is not expected.

d. Construction of Tunnel

During construction of tunnel, the land stability will be very critical if there are instabilities along

the tunnel line. Use of high blasting technique may induce surface instabilities due to vibration

effects particularly in areas where ground surfaces are much closed to tunnel line. Adequate

study and precaution will be done to minimize the effect due to tunneling. Thus, the impact on

soil erosion and land stability is expected to be direct, medium in magnitude, medium term and

local

5.1.1.7 Impact due to Waste, Spoil and Muck Generation

Project will generate waste, spoil and muck through different kind of activities. Some amount of

which is used in backfilling and land development. Further waste generate from labor may also



create adverse effect existing environment. Generation and management of waste is

continuous process in construction phase.

Three muck disposal area are proposed in different location to manage the exceed material

generated from tunnel. Out of three area, one of the area is selected in agriculture land, second

one is selected in private barren land, and third one is selected along the bank of Kaligadaki

River as shown in figure 2.5. Detail area occupied by these sites is shown in table 2.6. A

proposed agricultural area is expected to convert in barren area unsuited for agriculture

resulting loss in agriculture productivity. Similarly, a muck disposal area in private barren land

degrades the standing vegetation of the site and muck disposal area that is proposed near to

the river bank is likely to degrade the water quality.

Disposing any kind of spoil near to water bodies and other land will be strictly managed to avoid

adverse condition on existing environment. Proper management and treatment will be done in a

planned way before disposing any kind of spoil and waste. Proper management of dumping site

includes construction toe wall or retaining wall around dumping site, construction of drainage

system, fencing, compacting spoil etc. Management of spoil also includes the reducing and

reusing the spoil within generated site. Thus, the impact due to waste, spoil and muck is

expected to be direct, medium in magnitude, medium term and local during construction period.

5.1.1.8 Labor camp operation and waste generation

Waste generate from labor camp may also create adverse effect existing environment.

Activities in labor camp can pollutant the nearby water bodies and agriculture land. Similarly,

unsanitary waste disposal practices can create unhygienic environment around the camp. All

the labor camps are proposed on cultivation land hence it degrades quality the agriculture land.

During construction period about 1200 labors including technical person are likely to work in the

project. Congestion of labor force can create problem of sewage disposal and solid waste

management particularly during the peak construction phase. On average in Nepal, solid waste

generation is reported to be about 317 g/capita/day. Assuming 85% labor will be from outside

the project site, solid wasted likely to be generate from camp site will be order of 325 kg/day.

The waste composition analysis shows that highest fraction is organic matter (66%), followed

by plastic (12%), paper and paper product (9%), glass (3%) and other (10%).

Thus, the impact due to labour camp operation is expected to be direct, medium in magnitude,

medium term, and site specific during construction phase.

5.1.1.9 Impact on Natural Drainage, spring and Other Water Resources

Due to the construction of project components, nearby water resources may degraded and

water availability may be decreases. During tunneling, the existing spring and other water

resources along the alignment would cause the leakage of water through the tunnel, resulting

problem for construction and reduced spring water for settlement. Construction of road may

also degrade existing natural water resources.

Presence of spring and major water resource of were not identified along the alignment of

access road and tunnel line. As tunnel will be lying at great depth from the surface, seepage

into the tunnel is not expected to lower the surface groundwater adversely.

The disturbance in natural drainage can be expected in the construction of road. The natural

surface flow of water are broken and diverted during construction of road. The natural flow of

water, which is blocked and diverted on either side, may create soil erosion and land instability.

The flow of water will be well manage before channeled to natural water bodies.

Thus, the impact is direct in nature, low in magnitude, site specific and short term during

construction phase.



5.1.1.10 Blasting and Bunker operation

Project need explosive and blasting operation during construction of project. Storage and

handling of explosive is risky and needs high-level attention and involvement of security

agencies. Army camp with bunker houses is proposed at construction yard for the safe storage

of explosive and detonators needed for the project. The site for army camp with bunker house

is proposed nearby the intake site.

Blasting during excavation works may affect in the stability of the surrounding area and nearby

air and noise condition due to which local people and wild life may be affected. In overall, the

expected impact is direct, medium in magnitude, site specific and short-term in nature.

5.1.2 Operation Phase

5.1.2.1 Impact on Topography

A construction of dam will create impounded reservoir resulting change in existing scenario to

water pool area. The proposed project will generate electricity throughout the year and there

will be fluctuation in water level ranging from 700 masl to 623 masl. Thus, the visual landscape

of Andhikhola riverine will be change during operation period.

In powerhouse area and access road site, the impact on topography is expected to medium.

Considering overall significant of project the impact on topography during operation phase is

expected to be direct in nature, high in magnitude, site specific and for long term.

5.1.2.2 Impact on Land use

The permanent land acquisition for the project is estimated to be about 913.001ha that will be

utilized for different purposed. Major land use change will occur along the valley of Andhikhola

River.

a. Reservoir Area

In reservoir area, the land use change is occur in 244.016 ha agriculture land, 412.903 ha of

private barren land (kharbari), 60.658 ha of built-up area 11.969 ha forestland and nearly

161.469 ha in riverine flood plain. All these land use changes brought by the construction of

reservoir are permanent land use changes. Existing agriculture land will be converted into

uncultivable land cover by water surface. Hence, loss agriculture in productivity of expected to

be high. Similarly, clearing trees of private barren land and forest will also bring change in land

use.

b. Permanent Camp Area

Permanent camp area in powerhouse site is proposed in agriculture land. Land use change is

expect, as agriculture land will be converted into uncultivable camp area. Total 5.252 ha (4.373

ha agriculture land and 0.873 ha private barren land) is expected to change during

implementation period of project.

c. Land used by other Project Component

Land use by surge shaft, switchyard and access road to powerhouse and dam site are the

other areas of permanent land use changes. Similarly, muck disposal sites are other area of

permanent land use change. Surge shaft, switchyard and access road is expected to bring

change in 5.73 ha agriculture land and 2.90 ha in private barren land.

Muck disposal area, stockpiling area, quarry site, batching plant and crusher plant area that are

temporary in nature is expected to bring changes in approximately 22.43 ha agricultural land



and 22.78 ha in private barren land. Hence, loss in agriculture productivity and ground

vegetation is expected to be high.

Considering the overall observations in land use, the impact on land use will be direct, high in

magnitude, long term in nature and site specific.

5.1.2.3 Impact on Air and Noise Quality

During operation phase, there will be better available of various facilities, job opportunity in the

project area. With the increase in opportunity and population, movement of vehicle and traffic

density is expected to increase. As a result, air pollutants and noise emission from vehicles

movement and human activities is increase. The nature of the impact will be direct, medium in

magnitude, long term and local.

5.1.2.4 Impact on Water Quality

a) Andhikhola River

In operation phase there will be impounded reservoir after construction of dam across the

river. In the reservoir area, every year there will be cumulative accumulation of sediment. This

will results in increasing the turbidity, suspended solids, dissolved solids and BOD with in the

reservoir area than in present condition.

On both sides of Andhikhola at uphill side, there are settlements and these settlements are

likely to growth after the construction of reservoir. During this operation period, frequency of

movement and activities of people will also increase. Improper solid and liquid waste

generated by people, directly or indirectly will degrade the quality of water. Thus, the impact on

water quality will be direct, high in magnitude, long term and site specific.

b) Kaligandaki River

In operation phase, tail water from the powerhouse goes to Kaligandaki River. As sediment will

settled in Andhikhola reservoir, water used for power generation is expected to be sediment

free. Hence, tail water from powerhouse is likely to have lower sediment concentration than in

present condition. Moreover, permanent powerhouse camp area is proposed at left bank of

Kaligandaki River that will result in increase of population and movement of people. Improper

solid and liquid waste generated by people, directly or indirectly will degrade the quality of

water. Thus, the impact on water quality will be direct, high in magnitude, long term and local.

5.1.2.5 Impact on Hydrology and River Morphology

a. Upstream of Dam axis

During operation period, water will be stored behind the dam and there will be fluctuation of

water level from maximum operating level at 700 masl to minimum operating level 623 masl.

The morphology of river will change due to cumulative accumulation of sediment every year.

The velocity of flowing water will decrease as it approaches near to reservoir outer line hence,

there will be accumulation and deposition of sediment on the outer line of reservoir. Thus,

present morphology of river will be change during operation period of AKHEP.

b. Downstream of Dam axis up to the confluence of Kaligandaki River (Present

Condition)

The downstream release is set as 10% of the minimum monthly average inflow available, which

is equal to 0.31m3/sec. Hence, there is change in hydrology of river system up to the

confluence of Kaligandaki River.

.



Figure 5-1: Hydrograph before and after construction of project at downstream of Dam Axis

c. Downstream from confluence of Kaligandaki River and Andhikhola up to Upstream

of proposed Tailrace.

During operation phase of project, water from Andhikhola will be retain behind the dam. The

contribution of water from Andhikhola will be reduce throughout the year and only 0.31 m3/sec

is available; hence, there will be change in hydrology of the section.

Figure 5-2: Hydrograph before and after construction of project at upstream of Tailrace

Source: AKHEP, 2019

d. Downstream of proposed tailrace

During operation period, water used for generation is discharge into Kaligangaki River

through tailrace tunnel. The addition of water to the normal flow of Kaligandaki during dry

season will bring change in hydrology of the river. During operation phase, hourly fluctuation

of water is expected in Kaligandaki River at Downstream of tailrace. Table 5-1 shows the

flow of Kaligandaki River during operational and non-operational hour of proposed project in

operation phase. Similarly, figure 5.3 shows the hourly variation of water flow during

operation period on March. The flow of river is expected to increase by 88% than normal

flow at just downstream of tailrace during operation hours of project.



Table 5-1: Mean Monthly flow of river during operational and non-operational hours

S. N. Months

Mean monthly flow of Kaligandaki river at just upstream of tailrace during operation phase of AKSHEP (m3/sec)

Additional Water During Operational hour of AKSHEP (m3/sec)

Kaligandaki Flow at downstream of tailrace during operation hour of AKSHEP (m3/sec)

1 January 98.245 73 171.245

2 February 86.735 73 159.735

3 March 82.29 73 155.29

4 April 91.37 73 164.37

5 May 129.525 73 202.525

6 June 361.53 73 434.53

7 July 1050.05 73 1123.05

8 August 1280.25 73 1353.25

9 September 783.62 73 856.62

10 October 353.305 73 426.305

11 November 176.855 73 249.855

12 December 121.08 73 194.08

Source: AKHEP, 2019

Figure 5-3: Hourly variation of water flow during operation period

Impact due to addition of water in Kaligandaki River(Dowenstream of Proposed project)

Discharge in Kaligandaki River provided by project (AKSHEP) shows that 2 years and 5 years

return period flood is about 3800 m3/s and 4980 m3/s. During normal period of year, when

discharge of 73 m3/s from proposed hydropower is added to Kaligandaki River, maximum flow

is expected to be about 1353.25 m3/s which is less than 2 years return period of Kaligandaki

River. Thus, Kaligandaki River is one of the major river with wide watercourse; it can withstand

73 m3/s discharge from the proposed project. Hence, it is expected to have considerably low

impact in river morphology and hydrology at downstream of tailrace.

5.1.2.6 Impact on Soil Erosion and Land Stability

a. Effect of drawdown of the reservoir Reservoir Rim Failure

When a reservoir will filled with water, the ground water table re-establishes itself to a new level

around the reservoir rim. This change and the submergence of slopes may cause the slope to

be less stable than they were previously. Drawdown of the reservoir during operation period

usually results in instability of susceptible slopes.



Colluvium and alluvial deposits cover the surface of the slope along both side of Andhikhola

River. Some major and minor landslides are presence along both side of River. The rise and fall

of the reservoir water level from FSL (700 masl) to MOL (628 masl) annually, saturate the loose

deposits when reservoir is filled and dehydrate when the water level drops. This alternate

varying condition in soil mass brings structural weakness leading to the failure of slopes around

the reservoir rim. The water wave actions of the reservoir can cause physical erosion and

caving on the slope making there slopes further unstable. Thus, the impact on reservoir rim

stability will be direct, high in magnitude, long term, and local.

b. Land stability of Highway Section

The level of Siddhartha Highway was observed to be around 713masl near Galyang bazaar.

Since the full supply level of reservoir is 700masl and valley side slope of road is steep at this

section, there is probability of landslide and erosion. Thus, the impact on stability of highway

will be direct, high in magnitude, long term, and local.

c. Reservoir Sedimentation

Reservoir sedimentation is the gradual accumulation of the incoming sediment load form the

river. The deposition of sediments depends on the characteristic, geology, and stability of

stability of the catchment area. The average annual sediment load estimated in the AKSHEP

reservoir is about 0.34 tonne/yr. The following potential outcomes are linked to reservoir

sedimentation:

• Stability of the deposited sediment

• Changes in reservoir bed level aquatic ecology

• No contribution to flood plain siltation and fertilizer at downstream

• Change in river dynamic and erosional capacity

• Reduction of nutrients input to downstream zone

• End of useful life capacity of reservoir

Thus, the impact on reservoir sedimentation will be direct, high in magnitude, long term, and

local.

5.1.2.7 Impact due to Solid and liquid Waste

In operation phase, there will be more movement of people than present condition. Improper

management of waste generated by people, directly or indirectly will affect the present existing

environment and natural resources. Thus, the impact will be direct, low in magnitude, long term

and site specific.

5.1.2.8 Impact on Physical Infrastructure

During operation period of project, infrastructures lie within the reservoir area (at 700 masl) will

be submerged. IPP owned Andhikhola HEP with capacity of 9.4MW; two numbers of reservoir

tank also bear impact from project. Regarding to road, paved road in Tallo-Galyang and

unpaved road in Devithan, Sera, Illunga and Bayatari will be effected.Two motorable bridges

and thirteen number of trail bridges will be submerge by the project resulting effect on

movability and accessibility of local people. Thus, the impact on physical infrastructure will be

direct, high in magnitude, long term and local.

5.1.2.9 Impact in Micro-Climate

Reservoir area

A change in water available for evaporation can change humidity and temperature and other

aspect of climate system.There will be an increase in the humidity due to evaporation from the



reservoir, and a decrease in the average maximum temperature in the summer season as well

as a rise in the average minimum temperatures near the reservoir. When the temperature cools

down especially during the night, fog may be formed around the reservoir area.

5.1.2.10 Emission of GHG and Global Warming

A study by the Deemer et. al. 2016, pointed out that artificial reservoir created by dam is distinct

from natural system in a way that may enhance greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The

potential of GHG emission from the reservoir projects is high for projects located in the tropical

region compared to those located in the temperate region. The other determining factor for the

emission of GHG relates to the temperature regime of the atmosphere and reservoir water

body, organic matter present in the reservoir inundation zone and input of organic detritus as

sediments in the reservoir.

The reservoir of Andhikhola Storage HEP is located in sub-tropical zone, it is therefore

expected to emit GHG. In reservoir area, nearly 2.34% of the land area covers by forest,

27.39% of land area by agriculture and 46.34% of land by private Kharbari. The concentration

of the GHG emissions in the initial period will be governed by the amount of organic vegetation

left for inundation under the reservoir. In later periods, the emission levels will depend on the

organic load in the sediment flux and vegetation colonization annually in the reservoir

drawdown zone.

With the present level of study, quantitative estimate of emission of GHG from the proposed

Andhikhola reservoir is difficult but it can be expected that emission of GHG from the reservoir

is high potential of Methane (CH4) emission and Carbon dioxide (CO2) if the area is allowed to

inundate without removal of the organic vegetation.

5.1.3 Impact on Water User

5.1.3.1 Upstream Water user:

The main upstream water user is existing hydropower and irrigation system associated with it.

The reduced level (RL) of existing hydropower weir is at 630.8m and full supply level of

proposed Andhikhola storage HEP is at 700m. Hence, headwork and intake structures of

existing hydropower will be inundated by the reservoir of proposed AKSHEP. The loss on

investment, electrical energy and irrigation facilities associated with existing hydropower will

bear impact due to operation of proposed hydropower project.

The Irrigation system associated with the Andhikhola rive has been managed by Andhikhola

Multipurpose Water User Association (AKWUA). Its command area is about 500 ha in Syangja

and Palpa district which has 5MT per ha of rice production. In addition, maze in wheat also

have good productivity in the region. The region is also the belongs to Potato Zone. Farmers

have been growing different verities of seasonal and off-seasonal vegetables and supply to the

market.

Thus, the impact on upstream water user due to implementation of proposed project will be

direct, high in magnitude, long term and local.

5.1.3.2 Downstream Water User

Downstream of Dam site: The major downstream water user immediate to proposed dam site

is Kaligandaki ‘A’ HEP. It will receive reduced amount of water than in present condition due to

the implementation of proposed storage project. Present contribution of water from Andhikhola

to Kaligandaki ‘A’ HEP and reduced flow of water at downstream of proposed dam site during

operation of storage HEP is calculated and shown in table 5-1. Though, flow of water seems to



be a less in comparison to the discharge of Kaligandaki River (Table 4-8), the effect of reduce

flow is measurable and significant in long course of time, hence its impact needs to be

considered. Thus, the impact on downstream of dam site water user ( Kaligandaki ‘A’ HEP) due

to implementation of proposed project will be direct, long term and regional. The table shows

the reduced amount of water during operation phase of Andhikhola Storage HEP..

Table 5-2: Mean monthly discharge and reduced discharge

Months

Mean Monthly discharge of Water

Available at dam site of proposed dam site

(m3/s) *

Downstream discharge of water during operation

phase (m3/s)

Reduced Discharge during operation Phase because of Storage HEP

(m3/s) Remarks

January 0.885 0.31 0.575

February 0.745 0.31 0.435

March 0.58 0.31 0.27

April 0.58 0.31 0.27

May 6.355 0.31 6.045

June 33.12 0.31 32.81

July 107.03 0.31 106.72

August 92.13 0.31 91.82

September 69.33 0.31 69.02

October 24.985 0.31 24.675

November 7.245 0.31 6.935

December 1.56 0.31 1.25

Source: AKSHEP, 2019

Note: * Calculation is based on hydrology data of proposed storage HEP, water used by existing

hydropower and downstream release water from headwork of existing Andhikhola HEP. These values

are current contribution of Andhikhola to Kaligandaki ‘A’ HEP

Downstream of Powerhouse Site (D/S of Tailrace):

The proposed project collect water of wet season and discharge it in controlled way throughout

the year during operation hours. Gandak HEP, which is at the downstream of proposed

powerhouse site will receive additional amount of water (73.0 m3/s) during dry season. Gandak

Power house can generate additional energy during dry season, which is positive impact due to

the implementation of proposed project. Thus, the impact on downstream of powerhouse site

water user (Gandak HEP) due to implementation of proposed project will be direct, medium in

magnitude, long term, and regional. The Table 5-3 show list of projects in downstream of the

project area.

Table 5-3: Existing HEP at Downstream of Proposed Project

SN Name of Project Capacity

(MW) Location (District) Remarks

1 Kaligandaki A Project 144 Syangja In-Operation (Owned by NEA)

2 Gandak HEP 15 Nawalparasi In-operation (Owned by NEA)

Sub-total 159

Source: DoED

Andhikhola Storage HEP (180MW) Environmental Impacts


Table 5-4: Physical Environment Impact Assessment Matrix

S. N. Issues Impacts Magnitude Extent Duration Sum of Impact Values

Significance of Impact

(a) Construction phase

1 Topography The landscape will be change in Dam site, intake, muck disposal area and along access road.

M (20) SS (10) LT (20) 50 Significant

2 Land use change

Altogether, the proposed project AKSHEP will acquire 965.821ha. The permanent land acquisition will be about 913.001ha and temporarily land acquisition will be about 52.82ha.

H (60) SS (10) LT (20) 90 Highly

Significant

3 Air and Noise Quality

Construction of project is likely to influence the existing condition of air and noise level and affecting human, wildlife and livestock of the project area.

M (20) L (20) MT (10) 50 Significant

4 Water Quality Project construction activities are likely to increase the turbidity, suspended solids, dissolved solids and BOD of rivers and nearby watercourse


5 Change in Hydrology and River Morphology

There will be hardly impact on the hydrology during construction phase. Minor change in river bed morphology is expected.

L (10) SS (10) ST (5) 25 Less

Significant

6 Soil Erosion and Land Stability

During construction of access road, disruption on natural drainage pattern will cause scouring, erosion and landslides. The slope cutting works related to different construction works can also trigger landslides. The impacts may be serious during rainy or monsoon seasons


7 Waste, Spoil and Muck disposal

Muck disposal area are proposed in different location to manage the exceed material generated from tunnel. The value of land may be degrade due to disposal of waste, spoil, and muck.


8 Labour Camp Operation

Waste generate from labor camp may also create adverse effect existing environment. Activities in labour camp can pollute the nearby water bodies and agriculture land.

M (20) SS (10) MT (10) 40 Less

Significant

9 Natural drainage, spring and other water resources

During tunneling, the existing spring and other water resources along the alignment would cause the leakage of water through the tunnel arising problem for construction. Construction of road may degrade existing natural water resources. The flow of water will be well manage before channeled to natural water bodies

L (10) SS (10) ST (10) 30 Less

Significant

10 Explosive and Blasting operation

Blasting during excavation works may affect in the stability of the surrounding and in air and noise condition of local area. M (20) SS (10) ST (5) 35

Less significant

(b) Operation phase





1 Topography Construction of dam will create impounded reservoir resulting change in existing scenario from river to water pond area.

H (60) SS (10) LT (20) 90 Highly

Significant

2 Land use change

Existing agriculture land will be converted into uncultivable land impounded by water. Hence, loss in agriculture productivity is expected to be high. Similarly clearing trees of forest will also bring change in land use type.

H (60) SS (10) LT (20) 90 Highly

Significant

3 Air and Noise Quality

With the increase in opportunity and population, movement of vehicle and traffic density is expected to increase. As a result, air pollutants and noise emission from vehicles movement and human activities is increase.

M (20) L (20) LT (20) 60 Significant

4 Water Quality In the reservoir area, every year cumulatively accumulated sediment and other organic matters will results in increasing the turbidity, suspended solids, dissolved solids and BOD with in reservoir area.

H (60) L (20) LT (20) 100 Highly

Significant

5 Hydrology and River Morphology

AKSHEP is storage type project where main volume of water is reserved in wet season and discharge in controlled way for power generation. A significant change in hydrology and river morphology is expected during operation phase.

H (60) R (60) LT (20) 140 Highly

Significant

6 Soil erosion and Land Stability

The rise and fall of the reservoir water level annually saturate the loose deposits when reservoir is filled and dehydrate when the water level drops. This alternate varying condition in soil mass brings structural weakness leading to the failure of slopes around the reservoir rim. The water wave actions of the reservoir can cause physical erosion and caving on the slope making these slopes further unstable

H (60) L (20) MT (10) 90 Highly

Significant

7 Waste and Spoil disposal

In operation phase, there will be more movement of people than present condition. Increase in the human activities and improper management of waste generated by people directly or indirectly will affect the present existing environment and natural resources.

H (60) SS (10) LT (20) 90 Highly

Significant

8 Change in micro-climate

Micro-climate change is expected to occur in the reservoir area Increase in the humidity due to evaporation from the reservoir, and a decrease in the average maximum temperature in the summer season as well as a rise in the average minimum temperatures in the vicinity of the reservoir is expected. When the temperature cools down especially during the night, fog may be formed around the reservoir area.


9 Emission of GHG and

The reservoir of Andhikhola is located in tropical zone, it is therefore expected to emit greenhouse gases. The concentration of the GHG






global warming

emissions in the initial period will be governed by the amount of organic vegetation left for inundation under the reservoir. In later periods the emission levels will depend on the organic load in the sediment flux and vegetation colonization annually in the reservoir drawdown zone.

10 Physical Infrastructure

Construction of project will be submerged. IPP owned Andhikhola HEP with capacity of 9.4MW; Reserved tank, paved road in Tallo-Galyang and unpaved road in Devithan, Sera, Illunga and Bayatari; two motorable bridges and thirteen number of trail bridges. This will effect on movability and accessibility of local people. Moreover, it will also effect on physical structure on build-up area of 60.658ha area.

H (60) L (20) LT (20) 100 Highly

Significant

Note: D: Direct, IND: Indirect

Extent (E) SS= Site Specific (10) L= Local (20) R= Regional (60)

Magnitude (M) L= Low (10) M= Medium (20) H= High (60)

Duration (Du) ST= Short Term (05) MT= Medium Term (10) LT= Long Term (20)

The number in the bracket refers to Impact value as per National EIA Guidelines, 1993. The sum of impact values provides a maximum of 140 and minimum of 25.

Significance of impact: sum of impact values: more than 75 → Highly Significant, 50-75 → Significant and less than 50 → Less Significant.



5.2 Biological Environment Implementation of AKSHEP will affect the existing ecosystems in the project impact area multi-

dimensionally and the effects may be both adverse and positive. The major impacts on the

biological environment will include the loss of individual trees and loss of vegetation cover due

to site clearance and reservoir formation; increased demand of fuel wood and timber; impact on

NTFPs; habitat loss of mammals, bird and reptiles because of change of vegetation cover and

site disturbances


5.2.1.1 Forest/ Vegetation Loss

a. Community/Government Managed Forest

As far as standing trees are concerned, based on the field study and total enumeration taken

during EIA, 8192 number of trees including poles of 19 different species are estimated to be

felled during project construction period. The pole-sized trees are 12.2%, whereas mature trees

are 87.8%. Acacia catechu and Shorea robusta are found to be the dominant species in the

project impact area. Loss of tree and pole in different forest is presented in Table 5-5.

Table 5-5: Loss of Tree and Poles in CF /GMF

S.N Component Name of forest Forest area (ha)

Density Loss Remarks

Tree Pole Tree Pole

1

Reservoir

Rusidada CF 2.067 13.35 500.35 27.58 1034.20

2 Dhuseni – Bhalupani CF

8.658 26.69 333.57 231.09 2888.02

3 Maridhunga NF 1.244 13.35 366.92 16.60 456.45 GMF

4 Power House

Malunga Forest 3.689 35.03 575.40 129.23 2122.65 GMF

5 Access Road Malunga Forest 2.107 35.03 575.40 73.81 1212.37 GMF

Sub-total 17.765 478 7714

Total 17.765 8192

Source: Field survey and GIS analysis

Proposed AkSHEP will permanently acquire 17.765 ha of forestland. Of the total forest area

lost, two-community forest will lose 10.725 ha forestland and Government forest will lose

remaining.

b. Private tree (kharbari)

Based on the field study and sample survey taken, 442.665 ha private unarable (Kharbari) will

be lost by project facilities. In particular, 412.903 ha of private unarable (Kharbari) will be

inundated by reservoir. It is estimated that, about 335.980 ha of Kharbari will be lost

downstream of the Galyang bazar and about 76.923 ha of Kharbari will be lost upstream of the

Galyang bazar by inundation. Potential loss of trees on different components of the project on

private land is given in Table 5-6.

Table 5-6: Loss of Tree in Private Land (kharbari)

S.N Component Forest Area Tree density

per ha No of tree

Remarks

1. Reservoir

76.923 581.95 44766 Galyang to Bayatari

2. 335.98 489.58

164488 Dam to Galyang

3. Intake 2.95 1444

4. Access Road to Dam and Intake

1.547 489.58 757

5. Access Road to Surge Tank 0.57 67

6. Access Road to PH, Camp 0.725 238



and Adit

7. Muck disposal area and tunnel portal

4.05 490 1983

8. Camp and staff quarter site 0.873 - -

9. Quarry site and Batching plant site

18.98 - -

10. Surge shaft 0.067 - -

Total 442.665 213743 Source: Field study and GIS analysis

In addition to that, 7668 trees from the agricultural land including fruit tree within the reservoir

area will be lost due to inundation. So In total 221411 private trees will be lost.

Impact of the project on vegetation of Community/Government forest will be moderate, local in

extent and medium term in duration. However, vegetation loss from the private unarable

(Kharbari) will have high impacts on local economy. Large number of fodder tree and

economically valued trees from the private land will be lost. Local people also losses fodder and

grass base permanently. This will have site-specific impact for a long duration of time. This loss

of forest and vegetation cover might create indirect impacts resulting in the degradation of the

hill environment for a long duration. The following table provides the detail of tree loss

according to project component.

Table 5-7: Tree Loss in Different Components

S. N.

Project Component

Type of Forest

Area (ha)

Loss of Vegetation

(No of trees>10 cm

DBH)

Crown Cover (%)

Forest Type

1 Reservoir

Govt. Managed

1.244 473.05 - Acacia catechu

Community 10.725 4180.89 40-50 Acacia catechu

Leasehold - - -

Religious - - -

Private 412.903 216921 - Shorea robusta,

Acacia catechu and fodder trees

2 Access Road

Govt. Managed

2.107 1286.18 50-60 Pine Forest

Community - - - -

Leasehold - - - -

Religious - - - -

Private 2.842 1062 - -

3 Power House

Govt. Managed

3.689 2252 - -

Community - - - -

Leasehold - - - -

Religious - - - -

Private - - - -

4 Other project facilities

Govt. Managed

- - -

Community - - - Shorea robusta,

Acacia catechu and fodder trees

Leasehold - - -

Religious - - -

Private 26.92 3427 -

Total 460.43 229603 - -


Figure reveals that construction of the proposed AKSHEP affect 10.72 ha community forest,

7.04 ha of government managed forest and 442.66 ha of private kharbari.



5.2.1.2 Changes of Demand for Fuel Wood and Timber

Altogether 8192 individual trees from both GMF and CF will be felled during the construction

period. Fuel wood and timber thus produced will help to meet the local demand during the

project construction.

The existing private trees in Kharbari are enough to support the demand of firewood and timber

to the dependent HHs. However, cutting down of 221411 standing trees in private land is

significant to the livelihood of local people and is direct and long-termed. The economic impact

will be significant because timber and firewood obtained from the felled trees can be sold in

local markets within existing legal framework.

In addition, there will be large number of workforce in the area during the project construction

period. Even though most of the labor force will be from nearby areas, there will be large

number of people from outside the project area for the project construction. Due to this, the

increase in demand of fuel wood and timber during the construction period is expected to be

high.

Similarly, the influx of construction workers can increase the possibility of fire hazard to the

local forest. This is more specific in those temporary labour camps, which will be, during the

construction phase, located near the forest. The improper handling of firewood or cooking fuel

can induce such impact. However, most of the project area lies in private land and such labour

camps will be kept in close monitoring by the local people, so the impact will be low in

magnitude, site specific and short-termed.

5.2.1.3 Possible Encroachment of nearby Forest

The proposed project requires large area of land. Though, location of various project facilities,

material storage yard, camp site, etc. have already been proposed, there may be chances of

encroachment of nearby area for the labor’s ease. Forest and nearby areas possibly be

encroached for small scale stone quarry, onsite material storage, short-term migratory labour

camp, etc.Impacts of the project on the nearby areas will be of low magnitude, extent will be

local and last for medium period of time.

5.2.1.4 Exploitation of Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs)

Most of the area of the AKSHEP lies in the private land. According to the locals, the availability

of the high value medicinal plants in the project area is limited. Therefore, there will be little

chances of collection of NTFPs and medicinal plants by the labour force from the project area.

However, unauthorized access of labour force in the private farm and collection of fruits and

vegetable may happen. Regarding the forest/local products besides firewood and timber,

involvement of the workforce in exploitation of NTFPs and other private resources is not

expected due to the presence of local community. The magnitude of impacts is considered be

low, extent is site specific and duration is short-term.

5.2.1.5 Habitat Loss and Fragmentation

During the project construction period, all trees within the reservoir including free board level

will be completely lost. Tree, poles and ground vegetation within 965.821 ha (Total land

requirement) land will be cleared. This will destroy the existing forest ecosystem, river

ecosystem and cultivation ecosystem of the region. So all the habitat components of wild fauna

including birds and insects will be lost. Distances between two forest patches in the left and

right bank of the river will increases. It will also hinder movement of wild animals from two forest

patches.



Though all the vegetation in the area will be cleared, there are no prime habitat of the wildlife in

the impact area. The impacted forest areas are occasionally used by the wildlife as feeding

ground. Hence, impact on wildlife due to habitat loss is less prominent. Direct loss of wildlife by

the land use change is not expected. In addition, most of the project area is on the private land,

impacts of the project on habitat loss and fragmentation is predicted to be of low magnitude,

extent will be local and last for long period.

5.2.1.6 Possible Hunting and Poaching

In view of the availability of the wild fauna in the area, there is littlepossibility that illegal hunting

and poaching may occur in the area. The powerhouse area is the only possible area of

potential wildlife poaching because powerhouse is located in the forest area. Due to its

geographical location surrounded by settlements, availability of wild fauna and its poaching in

the area is thoughtful. There may be chances of illegal fishing in the Andhikhola and

Kaligandaki. Both construction workforce and the economic benefit seekers (local communities

as well as the outsiders) may be involved in such activities. The project impact on this is

expected to be of low magnitude, extent will be local and last for short period of time.

5.2.1.7 Impact due to Construction Disturbances

Construction disturbances resulting from blasting, drilling, vehicular movement and other

construction related activities would interrupt normal movement, feeding and other activities of

wild animals. Similarly, night blasting, electric lights in and around the construction sites and the

presence of large number of humans will also affect wild animals. The clearing, excavation,

grading and filling activities will affect less mobile, frequently smaller species of mammals and

other animals. The impact is expected to be moderate in magnitude, local in extent and medium

term in duration.

5.2.1.8 Impacts on Protected Species of Flora and Fauna

Of the total recorded species in the Project area, there is not any protected species of

mammals, birds or harpeto-fauna in the project area. However, some species of mammals and

birds are listed in the IUCN red list and some are on CITES appendixes. So, the impact of the

project on the protected fauna is not envisaged.

Regarding flora, Shorea robusta is the only tree species whose commercial felling,

transportation and export is prohibited under the NPWCA-2029. So, there may be chances of

the illegal felling ofShorea robusta. Both construction workforce and the economic benefit

seekers (local communities as well as the outsiders) may be involved in such activities. The

impacts of this activity is expected to be low, extent will be local and last for short period.

5.2.1.9 Increased Fishing Activities

Fishing activities in the project area will increase throughout the duration of the project

construction due to the influx of people. The labor force and their dependents will be involved in

fishing activities. Harvesting by using simple ordinary techniques will probably not affect the fish

population significantly. However, destructive technique such as the use of dynamites,

herbicides and electric rod will have an adverse impact on the local fish population.

5.2.1.10 Impact on Aquatic Flora and Fauna

During the diversion of water from headwork, some section will be dechannelized. Aquatic

species including macrophytes, aquatic animals, fishes, phytoplankton and zooplankton will be

affected in this section.During this stage the turbidity level of water will be increased. Thus,

downstream flora and fauna will also be impacted. In addition, Accidental spill of oils, lubricants



and hazardous waste and direct disposal of diverse types of construction wastes, camp wastes

and construction spoils into the water body will affect aquatic lives (flora and fauna) with limited

range of tolerance. So, impact of the project on aquatic life is predicted to be of moderate

magnitude, extent will be local and last for short period.

5.2.1.11 Fire hazards

Before the filling of the reservoir, all the vegetation within the reservoir has to be clearly felled

and removed. It takes some time even some months to clearly felled the vegetated area and

remove all biomass. If the dry biomass after felling cannot be managed properly, or biomass

thus removed from the reservoir cannot be managed properly, there may be the chances of

setting fire to dry biomass.

In addition, the burning of firewood or LP gas in the labour camp and other project areas also

increase the risk of fire hazard. So, fire risk of the project is predicted to be of moderate

magnitude, extent will be local and last for short period.


5.2.2.1 Changes of Demand for Fuel Wood and Timber

During the operation phase, site-specific and short-term effects such as increase in pressure on

forest resources will settle down. Any pressure on the forest area is not expected.

5.2.2.2 Aquatic Habitat Loss and Fragmentation

After the operation of the dam, hydrology of AndhikholaRiver will be changed. Lotic ecosystem

of the Andhikhola River will be changed into the lentic system due to ponding of reservoir.

Existing shallow water habitat of the aquatic life will be lost. Fish migration will be blocked by

dam. Five long distance migratory species: Anguilla bengalensis, Bagarius yarrelli, Clupisoma

garua, Tor putitora, and Tor tor, will be impacted by the dam construction. In addition, the

reservoir create barrier for migration of wild animals between two banks of the Andhikhola river

valley.

In the downstream region of the Andhikhola River, Dam of the project check sediment and

nutrient loading by floodwater thereby removing the bottom level of food web and aquatic

habitat. However, there is Kaligandaki HEP dam within 2 km downstream of the proposed dam

site of AKSHEP. In comparison to Andhikhola, flow in the Kaligandaki River is very high. The

span of reduced flow region is just about 2 km. Therefore, impacts of the project on the habitat

loss and fragmentation will be of moderate magnitude, predicted for a long time in a local

extent.

5.2.2.3 Changes in Number of Fish Species and their population

High dam across the river will change the hydrological regime and hinder the migration and

other behavior of fish and other aquatic animals. This will block the seasonal flux of fish species

upstream and downstream of the river. Operation of the dam changes the river ecosystem from

lotic to lentic and thereby fish and other aquatic life species. In the upstream of the dam,

numbers of migratory and shallow water fish species will be reduced and aquatic community

will also be changed. In contrary, there is possibility of flourishment of new aquatic communities

adopted to deep-water bodies. Therefore, the Impact of the project on the fish species and

their population will have moderate impacts for long period.


Fire may caught-up in the powerhouse facilities due to short-circuit. Otherwise, no any fire

hazard is anticipated during operation phase.



5.2.2.5 Changes in River Ecosystem

Construction of dam and its operation will alter the river ecosystem.The fundamental changes

occurs in the three regions:

a. Upstream of the Dam (Reservoir Area)

As the dam of the project comes in operation and reservoir fills, lotic water system changes into

the lentic and existing ecosystem will be inundated. Flora of the inundated area will be

completely lost and fauna will be migrated to another area. Existing habitat of aquatic life: in-

channel and flood plain wetland, pool and riffle, will be lost. Many other changes like; changes

in water temperature and quality, changes in thermal regime, land-water interaction and

changes in water productivity and sediment transport are obvious but difficult to predict. All

these changes have long-term implications on fish and aquatic fauna of Andhikhola River. So, it

is predicted that, the impact of the project on the river ecosystem upstream of the dam area will

be of high magnitude, last for long period of time in that particular area.

b. Downstream of the Dam (Reduced Flow Zone)

As the dam of the project comes in operation, flow in the Andhokhola River will be regulated

throughout the year. The downstream flow of the river will be 10% of the minimum monthly flow

available, which is equal to 0.31m3/sec. The regulated flow drom the results in complete change

in the river hydrology and ecology up to Kaligandaki confluence, dewater zone of the project.

The impact of change in river hydrology and ecology is very complex, therefore very hard to

quantitatively assess.

In qualitative terms, this will affect both on floodplain wetland and in-channel wetland. In

absence of flooding, usual vegetation in the flood plain will not grow. Dam also prevent the

nutrient loading in the river by the flood. As the dam-trapped sediment from the upstream of the

river, the bottom level of the food web is removed, which means loss of nutrient and habitat for

many aquatic species (Lin, 2011). Considering the fact that, the Kaligandaki confluence of the

river is within the 2km downstream of the dam and flow in the Kaligandaki is very high compare

to Andhikhola, the impact of reduced flow will be significant only upto Andhikhola-Kaligandaki

confluence. So, the impact of proposed hydropower in the downstream of the river will be low,

last for longer period of time and extent will be site specific.

c. Downstream of The Powerhouse (Augmented Flow Zone)

The powerhouse of the proposed project releases water to the Kaligandaki River through its tail

race. During operation hour, about 73-cumec water will be added to the Kaligandaki River.

From December to May, the power house will operate for 8.25 hrs, a significant tailrace flow to

Kaligandaki River will be expected. There exists complexity in the prediction of impacts of

possible anoxic and nutrient rich water, consequences of potential temperature differences

between Kaligandaki and tailrace water, impact on Kaligandaki riverbed due to sediment free

water release, and others.So, the impacts of the AKSHEP on the Kaligandaki river ecosystem

is expected to be moderate, extent will be local and the last for long period.

In contrary, addition of about 73 cumec of sediment free water in the Kaligandaki Rriver will

have significant beneficial impacts on the aquatic ecosystem of Kaligandaki River.

5.2.2.6 Alteration in Nutrient Level of Andhikhola River

Construction of dam and trapping of sediments and nutrients in the reservoir-upstream of dam

will change the nutrient level in dewater zone. Nutrient loading during high flood period in

downstream region will also be checked. So, nutrient deficiencies in downstream region as well



as eutrophication in the reservoir is anticipated as an impact of dam. However, stretch of

dewater zone (upto Kaligandaki-AndhiKhola confluence) is short (about 2 km) from the dam of

Andhikhola and flow in Kaligandaki is very high compare to Andhikhola, impact on nutrient level

downstream anticipate to be low, local and long term in duration.

5.2.2.7 Thermal Pollution

Thermal stratification in the reservoir water can lead to change in temperature in augmented

flow zone near the tailrace of PH. This thermal pollution will affect aquatic life.

5.2.2.8 Safety and Movement of Animals

The proposed AKSHEP planned to provide energy at peak hour. During its operation hour, it

releases about 73 cumec of water to Kaligandaki River through its tailrace. Sudden addition of

such volume of water in Kaligandaki during dry season will be significant. In addition,

Kaligandaki HEP also add significant volume of water during peak hour through its tailrace to

Kaligandaki. Both the tailrace of Kaligandaki and Andhikhola are within few kilometers. The

cumulative volume from both the tailrace will be significant to the Kaligandaki River during peak

hour in dry season. Such variation in flow level in Kaligandaki will risk the safety and movement

of domestic and wild animals as well as human beings. This impact is predicted to be

moderate, extent will be local and last for long duration of time.



Table 5-8: Impact Assessment Matrix for Biological Environment

S. N. Issues Impacts Identification and Evaluation of Impact Sum of

Impact Values


D IND M E Du

Construction Phase

1 Loss of Forest area 17.765 ha of forest area will be lost

D M (20) L (20) Mt (10) 50 Significant

2. Loss of Tree Loss of 8192 tree and pole D M (20) L (20) Mt (10) 50 Significant

3 Loss of Trees from Private Land Loss of 221411 number of private trees

D H (60) SS (10) Lt (20) 90 Highly Significant

4 Demand for Fuel Wood and Timber

Increases demand of fuel wood and timber

IND L (10) SS (10) St (5) 25 Less Significant

6 Exploitation to NTFPs Illegal collection of NTFPs IND L (10) SS (10) St (5) 25 Less Significant

7 Habitat Loss and Fragmentation Habitat loss and fragmentation by reservoir

D L(10) L(20) Lt(20) 50 Significant

8 Illegal Hunting & Poaching Hunting and poaching of wild fauna and fish

D L(10) L(20) St(5) 35 Significant

9 Impacts due to Construction Disturbances

Disturbance to normal daily activities of wildlife

D M(20) L(20) Mt(10) 60 Significant

10 Impact on Protected Species of Flora and Fauna

Habitat loss and Fragmentation

IND L (10) L (20) St (5) 35 Less Significant

11 Impact on Aquatic Flora and Fauna

Habitat lost and pollution D M(20) L(20) St(5) 45 Less Significant

12 Fire Hazard Possible fire on forest and labour camp

IND M(20) L(20) St(5) 45 Less Significant

Operation Phase

1 Aquatic Habitat Loss and fragmentation

Loss of In-channel and flood-plain wetland

IND

M(20) L(20) Lt(20) 60 Significant

2 Change in Rive ecosystem

I Reservoir Area Water Storage D H(60) L(20) SS(5) 85 Highly Significant

Ii Dewater Zone Reduced flow in the river D L(10) SS(10) Lt(20) 40 Less Significant

iii Augmented Flow Zone Augmented flow in the river D M (20) L(20) Lt(20) 60 Significant

3 Change in Fish Species and Composition

Migratory and Shallow water fish species will be lost deep water aquatic community may be flourished

IND

L(10) L(20) Lt(20) 45 Less Significant

4 Safety and Movement of Animals

Risk movement of animals due to sudden increase in flow level in Kaligandaki

D

M (20) L(20) Lt(20) 60 Significant



Note: D: Direct, IND: Indirect Extent (E) SS= Site Specific (10) L= Local (20) R= Regional (60) Magnitude (M) L= Low (10) M= Medium (20) H= High (60) Duration (Du) ST= Long Term (05) MT= Medium Term (10) LT= Short Term (20) The number in the bracket refers to Impact value as per National EIA Guidelines, 1993. The sum of impact values provides a maximum of 140 and minimum of 25.

Significance of impact: sum of impact values: more than 75 → Highly Significant, 50-75 → Significant and less than 50 → Less Significant

Andhikhola Storage HEP (180 MW Environmental Impacts


5.3 Socio-economic and Cultural Environment The likely impacts due to project implementation are associated with land take, social and

cultural problems, health etc. The anticipated impacts regarding the socio-economic and

cultural environment of the project area are discussed below:


5.3.1.1 Acquisition of land and Structure

● Land Requirement

The project components are located on private agricultural land, government land, settlement

area and built up area. The project will acquire chattels on these lands. The project requires

780.02 ha of private agricultural land for different project component. The detail loss of land of

PAFs/SPAFs due to construction of AKSHEP is shown in Appendix -D.

Table 5-9: Private land use by Project Components

S.N. Project Component Total (ha)

Private Land (ha)

Unarable Cultivated Built up

Area

1 Reservoir 717.667 412.903 244.106 60.658

2 Power house Site 0.055 0 0.055

3 Intake 2.95 2.95 0

4 Surge Shaft 0.067 0.067 0

5 Camp and Staff Quarter Site 5.252 0.873 4.379

6 Switchyard 3.73 0 3.73

7 Access Road 4.845 2.842 2.003

8 Quarry Site and Crusher Plant 40.013 18.98 21.033

9 Muck Disposal Area and Stockpiling Area 0 0 0

10 At Intake site 1.4 0 1.4

11 At Adit 2 site 3.8 3.8 0

Total 780.029 442.415 276.706 60.658

Percentage, % 100 61.52 38.48 8.44

Source: HH Survey 2019

● Households losing land

Sample household survey shows that 12.2% HHs will lose less than 10% of their land, where

6.4% HHs will lose 10 to 25%, 10.9% HHs lose 25 to 50% and 10.8% HHs will lose more

than 50% of their land. On the basis of the land-loss area, 70.5% of total surveyed HHs i.e.

806 HHs are identified as SPAFs. The caste wise land loss in different project components is

presented in the following table.

Table 5-8: Caste-wise Land loss

S.N. Caste Total

Landholding (Ha) Loss (Ha)

(%)

Loss Avg. Loss/HH

Project Area

1 Brahmin 179.64 109.67 61.0 0.307

2 Chhetri 173.24 100.54 58.0 0.459

3 Magar 297.97 166.91 56.0 0.452

4 Gurung 2.87 0.92 32.1 0.024

5 Newar 38.49 18.85 49.0 0.363

6 Dalit 8.63 3.87 44.8 0.037

7 Muslim 0.44 0.03 6.8 0.010

8 Chepang 0.03 0.02 66.7 0.020

Total 701.31 400.81 57.2 0.350


Table 5-10: Affected HHs by Land Loss (Surveyed HHs)



S.N. Caste

Loss of Total Landholding (Percent)

< 10% 10 – 25% 25 – 50% 50 - 75% 75-100%

HHs % HHs % HHs % HHs % HHs %

Project Area

1 Brahmin 54 15.1 21 5.9 36 10.1 41 11.5 205 57.4

2 Chhetri 26 11.9 15 6.8 25 11.4 22 10.0 131 59.8

3 Magar 46 12.5 26 7.0 52 14.1 45 12.2 200 54.2

4 Gurung 2 5.3 0 0.0 3 7.9 2 5.3 31 81.6

5 Newar 3 5.8 7 13.5 7 13.5 6 11.5 29 55.8

6 Dalit 8 7.6 4 3.8 2 1.9 6 5.7 85 81.0

7 Muslim 1 33.3 0 0.0 0 0.0 0 0.0 2 66.7

8 Chepang 0 0.0 0 0.0 0 0.0 1 100.0 0 0.0

Total 140 12.2 73 6.4 125 10.9 123 10.8 683 59.7


● Structures Loss in the Project Area

⮚ Private Structures

Altogether 712 structures of different types (house, cowshed and toilet) of surveyed HHs will be

affected due to project activities. The data of affected structures are collected by direct

measurement and site verification (in reservoir area) and HHs survey. Detail of the structures

loss is given in table below and Appendix- E.

Table 5-11: Caste wise Loss of Structures in Different Project Components

S.N. Caste House Type Cowshed Type Toilet Type

Pakki Kachchi Pakki Kachchi Pakki Kachchi

1 Brahmin 129 84 25 3 8

2 Chhetri 62 61 9 19 1 2

3 Magar 76 66 4 20 4 5

4 Gurung 22 13

5 Newar 12 7 1 1

6 Dalit 47 24 1

7 Muslim 2 1

8 Public Property 2 1

Total 352 256 13 66 10 15

608 79 25

Source: Direct measurement and HH Survey 2019

⮚ Public Structures

There are 6 schools, 1 church, 11 suspension bridges, 1 irrigation canal ,1 drinking water

project ,2 temples,1 magar sang bhawan and 1 slaughter house are in the reservoir area, which

will be impacted due to project activities. These public structures need to be relocated.

Table 5-12: List of public structures in the Reservoir area

S.N. Structures detail Location Number

1 Slaughter House Walling-13,Bayatari 1

2 Believers Eastern Church Galang Municipility-3 1

3 Chirag Sec. School Galang Municipility-3 1

4 Bhanubhakta sec. School Galang municipility-3,Tallo Galang 1

5 Bhattarai phat Sichai Upabhokta

sameeti

Galang municipility-3,Tallo Galang 1

6 Galang Bhu.pu. Sainik sec. School Galang Municipility-3 1

7 Shiv Mandir Galang Municipility-3,Tallogalang 1

8 Janahit basic School Galang Municipility-4 1

9 Radha Krishna basic School Galang municipality-2,Ilaunga 1

10 Chakra devi Mandir Galang Municipility-7,Davisthan 1

11 Bhu pu Sainik shantipriya school Waling municipility-13, Bayatari 1



13 Nepal magar aitihasik sangralaya Walling-13,Santighat 1

14 Galang Mankekhola khanipani Galang Municipility 2 and 3 1

14 Suspension bridge Reservoir area 11

Total 24


5.3.1.2 Loss of Crops

i. Permanent Loss of Crops

Total annual crop loss of surveyed HHs due to the project implementation is estimated to be

583.9 MT and total permanent loss of crops is estimated 669.2MT. Detail of the crop loss of

total land and surveyed land is presented in the table below.

Table 5-13: Annual Loss of Agricultural Production of Surveyed HH

S.N. Crop types Actual production

area loss (ha) Production Loss

(MT) Productivity

(MT/ha)

1 Rice 52.5 135.3 2.58

2 Maize 134.1 295.1 2.2

3 Wheat 22.8 36.6 1.6

4 Potato 15.6 67.2 4.33

5 Lentils 35.7 49.7 1.4

Total 583.9


(Note: Actual production area loss seems to be higher than total cultivated land. This is due to multiple

cropping pattern in the same land type; and study period is taken for one year not for one season.)

Table 5-14: Annual Loss of Agricultural Production from Permanent Land


area loss (ha) Production Loss (MT)

Productivity (MT/ha)

1 Rice 50 129 2.58

2 Maize 125 275 2.2

3 Wheat 40 64 1.6

4 Potato 40 173.2 4.33

5 Lentils 20 28 1.4

Total 275 669.2

ii. Temporary Loss of Crops

Similarly, 75.78 MT crops will be lost due to project activities from the land, the project will be

taken for its temporary facilities like temporary muck disposal area, labor camp, muck disposal

area, bunker, batching plant and crusher plant. The detail is given in table below.

Table 5-15: Annual Loss of Agriculture Production from Temporarily acquired land




1 Rice 8.0436 20.75 2.58

2 Maize 5.3624 11.80 2.2

3 Wheat 5.3624 8.58 1.6

4 Potato 6.703 29.02 4.33

5 Lentils 4.0218 5.63 1.4

Total 75.78


5.3.1.3 Loss of fruit trees

In addition to the loss of trees from the CFs and private barren land (Kharbari), about 7668

trees including 788 fruit trees, 1881 fodder trees and 4999 timber trees of different species are

expected to be clear felled from the Agricultural land during the project construction period.

Details of fruit tree loss caste wise is presented in the table below.



Table 5-16: Caste wise loss of private trees (No.)

S.N. Caste Fruit

1 Brahmin 156

2 Chhetri 319

3 Magar 270

4 Gurung 12

5 Newar 9

6 Dalit 22

7 Muslim 0

8 Chepang 0

Total 788


5.3.1.4 Impact on Livelihood of PAFs/SPAFs

The construction of the proposed project will affect livelihood of the people of more than 10

settlements of reservoir area. The main source of livelihood of PAFs is agriculture. People of

the area grow paddy, wheat, potato, beans and some also farm orange in their field. By selling

these entire food and fruit item, they survive their livelihood. Livestock rearing is another major

source of income for the people of the area. Thus, subsistence farming and livestock rearing

are the main occupation for the people of the project area. Some household head of the project

area also go the foreign country to earn some money for their livelihood. The farming pattern of

the project area is common as other hilly area of Nepal.

The construction of the proposed AKSHEP will affect or destroy their farming pattern and so

their livelihood. As the farming area and the kharbari land will be filled with water, their source

of income and the basis of livelihood will also demolished. These families will cope with the

positive as well as negative impacts due to construction of the project. The impact is direct in

nature, moderate in magnitude, local in extent and long term in duration.

Table 5-17: Source of the Livelihood of the Project Affected Families

S.N. Caste

Source of Livelihood

Total HHs Agriculture

Non-agriculture

Both

1 Brahmin 77 54 226 357

2 Chhetri 26 22 171 219

3 Magar 63 39 267 369

4 Gurung 2 21 15 38

5 Newar 6 35 11 52

6 Dalit 7 55 43 105

7 Muslim 0 3 0 3

8 Chepang 0 0 1 1

Total 181 229 734 1144



5.3.1.5 Pressure on Existing Facilities, Services and Resources

Construction of the AKSHEP is scheduled to take place in 82 months. About 1200 workers with

different levels of skills will be working in the project during this period. There will be increased

pressure in social service and facilities due to the migrant work force and outsider’s population.

Apart from the migrant workforce, during construction period, there may be influx of outsider

population aiming to make trades and businesses in the project area. Such outsiders may come

along with their families. In this way, the population of a relatively smaller project area can

become crowded with addition of the outsiders. The addition of the outsider population creates

pressure in social service providing institutions in the area.



By experience of hydropower projects construction in Nepal, it is anticipated that pressure on

the social service institutions particularly educational facilities, health services, water supply

systems and above all the sanitation management of the area will be created during the

construction period of AKSHEP. Its consequences might be shortages of rooms, benches,

teachers in the nearby schools; shortages of medicine, and medical personnel in nearby health

posts; shortages in water supply; increase in thefts, quarrels over resources and above all

increase in solid waste, human waste and degradation of the overall sanitation status of the

area. The impact will be indirect in nature, moderate in magnitude, site specific in extent and

short term in duration.

5.3.1.6 Occupational Health and Safety Hazards

Construction workforce, especially the laborers are susceptible to injuries and diseases.

Workforce involved in new slope cutting will be exposed to typical health hazards. Laborers

involved in structural works will also encounter risks. Personnel involved in handling of fuel,

lubricants and hazardous material have risks of facing health hazards. In the same way,

working in tunnel construction will always risky. There is the possibility of encountering

poisonous gases, rock burst and groundwater flow inside the tunnel. The construction of

headwork, siphon crossing and other structures involves concrete mixing, concrete pouring,

reinforcement banding/ installing, steel ribs fabrication and welding.

The workers working with concrete may be exposed to fine silicate particles that might cause

lung diseases. Working in dust, tree felling, spoil tipping and quarry/crushers will also pose

serious risk to the laborers. Poor drinking water, lack of hygienic environment in labor-camps,

unmanaged work-camps and haphazard stockpiling are the major areas that will increase the

chances of the workforce being exposed to health risks. Potential impacts to health are

respiratory diseases, eye infections, dysentery, diarrhoea and cholera. The impact is of direct in

nature, moderate in magnitude, local in extent & short term in duration.

5.3.1.7 Impact on Houses, Settlements and Social Infrastructures

There are more than 10 settlements in the reservoir area and one settlement near to surgetank

area. Altogether 1611 private structures (houses, cowshed, kitchen, toilet) and 25 public

structures (public buildings, suspension bridge, schools, and others will be affected (Table 5-17

and Table 5-18). will be impacted due to project activities and thus relocated to any other

place.The magnitude of impact on above mentioned private and social infrastructures are high,

extent is local and duration is long term.

5.3.1.8 Damage to houses/structures due to vibration created during blasting

Construction of about 7.5 km long headrace tunnel, underground powerhouse and tailrace

tunnel will require huge quantity of blasting. Since, there are no any settlements near to

headrace tunnel, the impact of vibration created during blasting is not seen. During blasting,

energy released may result in shaking of the ground and structures built over the ground which

may damage the structures in the form of cracks and in the worst case, collapse of the entire

structure, if it is weak. Though the spread area is not extensive, the impact being related to loss

of life and property; magnitude is considered high, extent is local and duration is long term.

5.3.1.9 Impacts on Communal Resources

The outside workforce might use the community (ethnic groups) resources such as water,

forest products, and may use other resources used by the communities. Their use of the

resources will increase competition with the local communities and in the degradation of the

resource base particularly the water and forest resources. About 2000 workforce will rely on



health service, drinking water, school and such other resources of the project area. Therefore,

these communal resources located in project area will have to serve the increased population

(during construction) with their limited resources. Similarly, there will be extra pressure in the

existing drinking water sources when used by the construction workers and their dependents.

The envisaged impacts are local, short duration and moderate in magnitude.

5.3.1.10 Impact on local Infrastructures, People's Mobility and Transportation pattern

The construction of project will involve transportation of significant quantity of construction

materials from outside and within project area. Number of skilled, semi-skilled and unskilled

work force will migrate to the project area. The increase vehicular activities will increase the

dust level released from the dust road of the project area. Similarly, the increase traffic is also

likely to increase the accidental events in the project area.

The project activities will also add an extra pressure on various existing infrastructures of the

project area. The existing road and the suspension bridge of reservoir area will have the most

impact. At the same time, the increased traffic due to project activities will affect the normal

movement pattern of local people and tourists. Despite these adverse effects, increase in traffic

volume will provide the people with easier access to the area. The magnitude of impact is

considered high, extent is local and duration is long term.

5.3.1.11 Degradation of Agricultural Land

The project will permanently require about 780 ha of private agricultural land located in the

project area. Moreover, the project will also lease 52.82 ha land for temporary use. During the

preconstruction stage these land will be prepared for the setting of construction camps,

construction equipment and parking of the construction vehicles. These activities will degrade

the agricultural land. On the other hand, the setting of construction vehicles and equipment will

hinder the agricultural production and hence its productivity. Considering the direct impacts on

PAFs, the magnitude of the impact is rated high, extent local and duration long term.

5.3.1.12 Gender and Vulnerable group

Household survey of the PAF reveals that significant numbers of indigenous and Dalit

population exists in the project area (49.7% of total population; 40.2% indigenous, 9.2% Dalit

and 0.3% Muslim). Therefore, the permanent and temporary land acquired by the project, and

the direct and indirect action of the project is thus going to impact the large numbers of

indigenous and vulnerable people as other groups. The literacy rate of the women of the

project area is lower (67.8%) then male. Similarly percentage of female members attending

higher education is also lower then male.

During the project construction, daily wages labor will be deployed for excavation,

transportation of construction materials and other construction related works. The contractor,

especially the sub-contractors, may discriminate the women and vulnerable group while hiring

the worker. There will be potential of the exploitation of the female members by the construction

workforce, mostly the outside workforce. It is assumed that most of the labor force required for

the project will be farmers and landless people from the vicinity of the actual work place moving

around the construction place as the construction proceeds.

The impact of the project construction is also expected on the poor and disadvantage people

who might be directly not affected by the project but affected in other ways such as price hike,

shortage of consumable goods, social inferiority and less opportunity of project related benefits.

Considering the nature of construction work and manpower employed, the magnitude of impact

is considered to be low, the extent is local and the duration is short termed.



5.3.1.13 Transmission of Communicable Diseases

During project construction, large numbers of outsiders as skilled, semi-skilled and unskilled

workers will migrate to the project area. These temporary migrants may carry different

communicable diseases. The diseases might spread to the local people of the project area

through different modes of transmission such as air, water and food contaminated by the

carriers. At the same time, the foreigners and people from different parts of country will visit the

project area for different types of business purpose. These peoples as well as the project staffs

might engage in sexual relationship with the locals.

Therefore, diseases like AIDS, STDs, gastroenteritis, etc. are potential risks to human

inhabitants of this area. The present available health services in the area would be insufficient

to cater health service to outsider workforce in the project area. Considering the nature of

impact, its magnitude is moderate, extent is local and duration is long term.

5.3.1.14 Probable impact due to increase child labor, an accidental risk and disturbance

to the educational pattern

During project construction, large number of local people as well as outsider will be engaged

directly and indirectly to project. Although, the project will have the provision of not employing

children less than 16 years of age, the poor parents around the project area may engage their

children in some form of work like in tea stalls, collection of sand, aggregates, etc. Since there

would be extra earnings, the children will be attracted to help their parents in working with the

project than going to school for education. This will definitely affect educational pattern of

project area. At the same time, different project activities such as drilling, blasting, and other

construction activities pose safety concerns to local people especially children. The impact is

moderate in magnitude, extent is local and duration is short term.

5.3.1.15 Impact on Social, Cultural and Religious Practices and norms/values

Project area is populated by large numbers of ethnic caste group Magar and occupational caste

group Kami. Besides, other caste groups are also residing in the project area. These people

have their own culture, norms and values. In terms of religious belief, the people in the area

follow Hinduism but they widely celebrate other festivals and rituals like Jatra, Rodhi. One

family help other family during farming seasons as 'Parma' (Parma is the social practice where

people do not get money or other assetsfor helping their neighbor; in return their neighbor will

help them in his turn). In this way, all these people live in harmony and in good cooperation

among themselves.

The large number of outside workers belonging to different religious and cultural belief will

interact with local people directly or indirectly and may impose their own beliefs knowingly or

unknowingly which may bring some sort of conflict and unrest in the area. However, the migrant

workers will be mostly from within the country people, the impact is not expected to be

significant. The magnitude of impact is low, local in extent and short term in nature.

5.3.1.16 Religious, Historical and Archeological Site

There are number of temples, religious and cultural sites in the project area. One church and

other religious places located within reservoir area will be affected due to the construction of the

project. The impact is high and long termed in nature.

5.3.1.17 Impacts on local people due to Increase in Economic Activity

Increase in number of people within a small rural area creates more demand of daily

consumable commodities. This will certainly result into price hike in the local market as the



supply fails to meet the demand in the project area. This will have adverse impact on the low-

income people of the area. The project will not be able to employ all local people so there will

be gap in income level between the employed and unemployed. This gap may bring frustration

and anxiety in unemployed people and pride in employed people, thus bringing in social

disharmony.

As the workers and the people who are able to earn through local trade/business will be

earning more, they may gradually develop a habit of spending more. This may be reflected in

the form of gambling, prostitution and alcoholism and such other social evils. The magnitude of

impact is moderate, extent is local and duration is medium term.

5.3.1.18 Law and Order

During the construction phase, the contractor will employ labor from different places belonging

to different socio-cultural background, religion and faiths. Since some of the workers will be

accompanied by their dependents, actual number of people staying in camps may still be

higher. They will interact and interrelate with the project management and with the local

community and there will be possibilities of conflict of interest thus affecting the law and order

situation. Furthermore, cash flow in the area may attract the workers towards gambling, alcohol

consumption, prostitution, stealing, looting, and such other social evil. In such situation general

breakdown of law and crime may occur.

There is are police posts within DIA of the project area. The local conflicts regarding social

crime and quarrels are solved by the local leaders and social activists. The extreme cases are

looked after by the police posts. During the project construction, the available resources in the

district police post may not be sufficient.

Analysis of number of workers, expected behavioral changes, and existing security situation

shows that the law and order situation of the area may be deteriorated if no mitigation measure

is taken. The magnitude of impact is moderate, extent is local and duration is medium term.

5.3.1.19 Impacts of Aesthetics

Changes in aesthetics (landscape/visual beauty) are another potential direct effect from

AKSHEP development. The proposed project can change the visual quality of area by

introducing structures, cables, power-substations, lights and others. They may also produce

sounds during construction, maintenance or normal operation that some people will find

objectionable in recreation settings. Disposal of muck generated during the project construction

will change the existing topographical setting of the project area. Similarly, the structural

location of the project components dam, tunnel inlet portal, tunnel outlet portal, camp house,

powerhouse, and other components will change the natural aesthetic and visual qualities.

Cutting of trees, diversion of water and other project activities will change the landscape quality

of the project area. The magnitude of impact is moderate, local in extent and long term in

nature.


5.3.2.1 Decrease in Agricultural Production due to Loss of Agricultural Land

The project components are located on private agricultural land, government land, settlement

area and community forest area. Permanent structures of the project such as permanent camps

for powerhouse site and dam site, access road; will require 276.7061ha. of private agricultural

land on permanent basis. During the operation stage these productive agriculture lands will be



occupied by these permanent structures, which will ultimately hinder the agriculture production

and hence its productivity too.

Similarly, there will be farming hindrance during ploughing the agro-fields if the permanent

structures are placed at the middle of any field boundaries. It is likely to occur in the access

road and construction campsite. On the other hand, leakage of oil, grease and other lubricating

liquids from the machinery equipment (like powerhouse, switchyard, transformer, etc.) will

hinder the agricultural production and hence its productivity. However, the land owners will get

a good compensation for acquiring and leasing private agriculture lands as well as for the loss

of agricultural production from the AKSHEP, the impact will be low in magnitude, local in extent

and long termed in duration.

5.3.2.2 Possible Impact due to Sudden Release of Water

a. Downstream of Powerhouse

During project operation period, a maximum of 73 m3/s water will be added to the Kaligandaki

River in the dry season. This will increase the water level of Kaligandaki River. The settlements

along the Kaligandaki River, Palpa District like Hugi will be impacted due to increased level of

water. The sudden release of water in the stream, without any prior information, can lead to

washing away of animals and humans. The magnitude of impact is moderate, local in extent

and for long term.

b. Downstream of Dam

Due to decrease in flow level downstream of the dam in the wet season, activities such as

swimming and fishing in the Andhi Khola River might increase. If the water is released from the

dam to the river for maintenance purpose without any prior information or warning, people may

be washed away. Since the project will release a certain quantity of water (around 10% of

current flow), the flow of water will decrease so far. The magnitude of impact is low, local in

extent and long term.

5.3.2.3 Impact on local people due to decrease in economic activities

With the completion of construction phase, the highly active situation will almost come to a

standstill. Most of the workers will lose their job, there will be drastic decrease in local trade of

foodstuff and daily commodities, cash flow and transaction will decline resulting in overall

slowdown of economic activity. Thus, people who were benefiting from the economic activity

brought in by construction works will face sudden loss, which will create discomfort and anxiety

among them. Nevertheless, it is expected that people will gradually adapt to the changed

conditions within a period of few months to a year. The magnitude of impact is low, local and

medium term.

5.3.2.4 Possible Impact on Gender and Children

After the completion of the project construction, most of the workers and children (if any) will

return to their home and start living their normal life. Since there will be very limited project

activities during the operation phase, no significant impact on women, children and others

vulnerable groups is expected. The overall magnitude of impact is low, extent is local and

duration is medium term.

5.3.2.5 Occupational Health and Safety Hazards

Occupational Health and Safety aspect is one of the likely impacts to be experienced during the

operation and maintenance period of the project. Access to electricity may also bring some

hazard associated to electric shock. Similarly, lack of training on operation and maintenance



skill and unavailability of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) may also cause risks for human

live. The impact low in magnitude, local in extent and long term in duration.

5.3.2.6 Impact to Downstream Projects

There are many projects operating in Kaligandaki River, downstream of powerhouse with

regular water flow. In the project operation phase, the water level of Kaligandaki River will

increase with additional water flow. This may impact the projects of downstream. The

magnitude of impact is high, site specific and long term in duration.

5.3.2.7 Water Use Rights

The local people normally use water of Andhi Khola for various purpose like, swimming, fishing,

irrigation, as well domestic uses. Some people from Shera settlements were reported to use the

river water for drinking and other domestic uses. In addition, water of Andhikhola is also used

for rrigation and energy generating purpose within the stretch. The impact is moderate in

magnitude, local in extent and long term in duration.

5.3.2.8 Impact on Fishing

Some local people involve in fishing activity in Andhikhola occasionally. however, there are no

any fishing community in the project area. So, the project impact on fishing activities of the

people will be low in magnitude, site specific and long term in duration.

5.4 Beneficial Impacts


5.4.1.1 Local Employment Opportunity

One of the important beneficial impacts of the project during construction is local employment

generation. The estimated construction period of the project is 82 months. The construction

module, which emphasizes labor-based approach using local people, tends to benefit directly to

the people living in the area. The construction works offers a wide range of employment for

2000 people varying from unskilled to skilled. Of them, most of the unskilled and semi-skilled

persons will be hired locally as per their capacity and qualification.

The socio-economic survey revealed that majority of the affected households are willing to work

in the project and 73.18% of total population are working age population. Thus, local people

can be benefited from various employment opportunities generated during the construction

period. The amount of money that will flow in the local economy in terms of wage earnings will

directly enhance the quality of life of the local people. Therefore, the overall impact will be

medium in magnitude, local in extent and short term in duration.

5.4.1.2 Increase in Local Skills

The project requires about 2000 including skilled and semiskilled human resources. Both of

them should have some technical skills. Of them, most of the unskilled and semi-skilled

persons will be hired locally as per their capacity and qualification. The groups Magar and

Dalits of the project affected area are envisaged to increase the skill level regarding to the

construction activities.

Besides, AKSHEP will also launch training programs in specialized areas such as electro-

mechanical works of hydropower, house wiring and maintenance, road slope stabilization; spoil

handling, metal works, etc. First priority will be given for the project affected people and local

people to the extent they are interested to get involved in construction activities. Therefore, the



overall impact is considered to be moderate in magnitude, local in extent and long term in

duration.

5.4.1.3 Uplift social-life of local people by CSP and skill enhancement trainings

The residents of affected wards, DIA and IIA settlements will be provided support programs in

the field of health, education and drinking water as part of Community support program (CSP)

by the project. The support will be provided based on the study of the requirement and

available resources and is assumed to uplift the social life of local people. The local community

will be consulted in determining these matters. AKSHEP will also provide skill enhancement

training to SPAFs, who have lost more than 50% of their agricultural land, for their capacity

building and restore their livelihood.

During the project operation, the project will establish at least one health care unit either at

headworks or at powerhouse area. The better electrification will further enhance the facilities

available at the centers. Similarly, AKSHEP will provide some assistance to the needy local

schools. This will help to improve the overall quality education of the project area

RMs/municipalities. The overall impact is considered to be moderate in magnitude, local in

extent and long term in duration.

5.4.1.4 Business Opportunities for Locals and Increase of Economic Opportunities

Project requires about 2000 people as construction workforces during the construction period

over 82 months. With such huge numbers of workforce (labor groups, construction crew and

project team) and visiting population, there will be an abrupt rise in the demand of local

agricultural products. The workforce who will reside at different locations of the project area for

the construction period will depend on local market for their day to day consumption goods.

They will require a variety of service facilities and consumer goods produced locally as well as

from outside of the project area. Fresh vegetables and fruits, milk and milk products produced

locally will be in high demand. The local farmers of the project area producing these products

will, thus, be benefited. The establishment of the new market place and expansion of the

existing markets will have positive impacts on the local economy.

Tea shops, grocery shops, restaurants, fast food will be the major source of income to the local

people. Besides, other micro and small industries such as dairy, poultry and livestock farming,

furniture, tailoring, handicrafts production, etc. could be established by the local people

themselves to meet the requirements of the construction workforce. The project will incorporate

programs to assist the local farmers in the commercial production of local agricultural produces

by training, distribution of improved seeds and technology transfer. The local people having

some experience in running lodges, restaurants and grocery shops will open the enterprises

and create employment opportunities to themselves and others. As a result, there will be a

significant cash flow in the local economy. Therefore, the overall impact will be indirect in

nature, moderate in magnitude, local in extent and short term in duration.

5.4.1.5 Revenue Collection Opportunities for Local Government

The proposed AKSHEP will require significant amount of construction materials. The

construction aggregates of various sized and quantities available in the local area will be the

first priority of the project. According to the existing legal regime of the country, local

government are entitled to raise the revenue and taxes from the local resources utilized by the

project for the construction works. Similarly, the local governments have the rights to impose

tax on small business, which will boost up by the begnining of the project construction works.



5.4.1.6 Potential Improvement of Public Facilities through CSP

The project has allocated 0.5% of total project cost as Community Support Program (CSP) and

suggested improvement of local services including health, education, sanitation and social

services. Project will support to improve water supply facilities, educational institutions, health

care institutions and local accessibility beforehand commencement of construction. Such

improvement is also required for the project to start and as some of these are necessary for its

construction crew as well. These programs are envisaged to help develop local infrastructures

and social services in the PAA. This in turn will help local people to improve their quality of life.

The impact will be direct in nature, high in magnitude, local in extent and long term in duration.

5.4.1.7 Hydropower Project Induced Development

As a result of the project implementation, induced economic development will take place in the

project area. The change in demand and supply situation, increase in economic activities, cash

flow, accessibility to services, infrastructure development will provide opportunity for emergence

of commercial banks, government and non-government offices, health and educational

facilities, tourism industry and other sectors. Similarly, development and expansion of market

centers, enterprises, agro-based industries will also flourish. The availability of better services

will improve the quality of life of local people, increase land value and infrastructures condition

in the area. The impact will be indirect in nature, moderate in magnitude, local in extent and

long term in duration.

5.4.1.8 Change in the Land Value

The value of the land that will be used for the construction of the project components and the

land nearby the project area will increase. This will also help to uplift the economic condition of

the local people. Hence, economic status of these communities will be increased due to project

implementation. The impact will be indirect in nature, moderate in magnitude, local in extent

and long term in duration.

5.4.1.9 Provision of Project Share to the Local People

The local people can have opportunity to invest in the project by allocating certain percent

(10%) of the total project investment as a share to the public and the people of the project

affected districts. The benefits from such investment are likely to improve the living standard of

the project area people.

5.4.1.10 Increase in Tourism Activity

The creation of a big reservoir will create a big opportunity to increase the tourism sector. Both

the internal as well as external tourists will be attracted to this place. In addition, the possibility

of boat operation as well as fish farming will help boost the tourism sector. Professional

peoples, students and researchers will be attracted to visit the AKSHEP to see how the project

is running in its operation phase. The impact is direct in nature, high in magnitude, local in


5.4.1.11 Increase in Living Standard

The employment opportunity will increase the income level of the local people. This will, in turn,

improve living standard of the local people. This increase is likely to enhance development and

promotion of other sectors particularly the social service sectors such as education, health,

sanitation and drinking water facilities in and around the surrounding project area.

5.4.1.12 Improved Health and Sanitation Conditions

The establishment of new health institutions and improvement/strengthening of existing health

institution will help local people to improve their health. Health and sanitation (WASH) training



to local people during construction phase as well as occupational health related training to

workforce further increase the health and sanitation status of local people and area. The impact

is indirect in nature, moderate in magnitude, local in extent and long term in duration.


5.4.2.1 Flood Regulation in the Wet Season

One of the major benefits of the storage project is the flood regulation. The proposed dam of

167 m height on the AndhikholaRiver has the capacity of 100% regulation of the flood water as

shown in the following figure.

Figure 5-4: Flood Regulation by AKSHEP on Andhikhola River

5.4.2.2 Water Available for Multiple use in the Dry Season

Hydropower Project: In case of storage type of hydropower project, water is stored and

regulated in controlled way for generation of electricity. Water release during dry season after

generation of electricity is additional availability of water in the river. The addition of the water,

downstream of powerhouse will help to increase the generation of the hydropower projects

being planned and constructed in the Kaligandaki River. Therefore, the execution of the

AKSHEP will benefit for existing and planned hydropower project, which are listed in Table 5-

18.

Table 5-18: List of Potentially Benefitted HEPs

SN Name of Project Capacity

(MW) Location (District) Remarks

1 Gandak HEP (Suryapura HEP) 15 Nawalparasi In-operation

2 Kaligandaki Storage Project 844 Nawalparasi/Tanahun Under Study by DoED

Sub-total 859

Source: DoED, 2019

Gandak Irrigation Project

Gandak irrigation project lies in the downstream of the proposed AKSHEP powerhouse.

Additional water available during dry season will be utilized by the irrigation project for irrigation

purpose. Therefore, the execution of the AKSHEP will also benefit for existing Gandak Irrigation

Project.

5.4.2.3 Reduction of sediment load

During operation phase, sediment will be retain behind the dam and no sediment load will

transport to downstream of dam. Reduction of sediment load will have positive impact on

downstream water user like Kaligandaki “A” hydropower, as the hydropower need not to bear



sediment load from Andhikhola. As per preliminary estimation, the total sediment load is about

0.34 Tonnes/yr and consequences impacts of this sediment load need not to be bear by

hydropower. Similarly, reduction of sediment will also decrease siltation problem in downstream

irrigation project. Thus, the impact is direct in nature, moderate inmagnitude, and local in extent

and long term in duration.

5.4.2.4 Generation of Electricity Royalty

The project will generate royalty as per the provision made in Hydropower Development Policy,

2001. According to the Policy, as the proposed storage project is for internal consumption, the

AKSHEP will pay annual royalty to GoN at the rate of NRs. 200 per kilowatt for capacity and 2%

energy royalty per kWh for first 15 years of commencement of the project. After 15 years the

annual capacity royalty will be NRs. 1500 per kilowatt and energy royalty per kWh will be 10%.

As per the provisions in the Intergovernmental Fiscal Arrangement Act, 2074, Schedule-4, 50%

of the total royalty obtained from hydropower will be allocated to the Government of Nepal, 25%

to the concerned state and 25% to the concerned local level. This will certainly encourage the

local government bodies to invest in the environmental conservation as well as social-economic

development sectors. The impact will be direct in nature, moderate in magnitude, national in


5.4.2.5 Enhancement of Power Supply

Due to operation of AKSHEP, an additional installed capacity of 180 MW will be connected to

the national grid. The impact is indirect in nature, moderate in magnitude, regional in extent and

long term in duration.

5.4.2.6 Increase in Tourism Activity

The creation of a big reservoir will create a big opportunity to increase the tourism sector. The

project area is en route to Pokhara from Lumbini and vice versa, which are major tourism

destinations of Nepal. Both the domestic as well as international tourists will be attracted to this

place. In addition, the possibility of boat operation as well as fish farming will help boost the

tourism sector. The impact is direct in nature, high in magnitude, local in extent and long term in

duration.

5.4.2.7 Increase in Living Standard

The employment opportunity will increase the income level of the local people. This will, in turn,

improve living standard of the local people. This increase is likely to enhancedevelopment and

promotion of other sectors particularly the social service sectors such aseducation, health,

sanitation and drinking water facilities in and around the surrounding projectarea.

5.4.2.8 Reduction of Greenhouse Gases (GHGs) Emission

The proposed AKSHEP will generate annually 674.45 GWh of energy, which will reduce the

import of petroleum products from India. As the Indian energy market is dominated by fossil fuel

based energy production (mainly coal), the production of the clean hydropower from AKSHEP

will help avoid the import of such energy and help reduce the greenhouse gas emission. This is

one of the major benefits of the AKSHEP from the perspective of climate change mitigation and

reduction of GHG emission. The impact is indirect in nature, high in magnitude, national/global

in extent and long term in duration.



Table 5-19: Impact Assessment Matrix for Socio Economic Environment

S. N.

Issues Impacts Identification and

Evaluation of Impacts Sum of Impact

Values Significance of Impact

Construction Phase D IND M E Du

1. Acquisition of Land and Structure

734.566 ha private land 252.27 cultivated land) is acquired permanently. Total 712 private structures (608 houses, 79 cowsheds and 25 toilets) and 24 public structures will be affected.

D H SS LT 90 Highly

Significant

2. Loss of Crops Annual loss of 669.2MT food crops from permanent land acquisition and 75.78MT from temporary land acquisition.

D H SS LT 90 Highly

Significant

3. Loss of Trees from private land

Total 788 fruit are expected to be clear felled. D H SS LT 90 Highly

Significant

4. Impact on Livelihood The construction of the proposed project will affect or destroy the farming pattern and so thus the livelihood of PAFs.

D M L LT 60 Significant

5. Pressure on Existing Facilities, Services and Resources

Influx of migrant workforce and outsider population may create pressure on existing facilities, services and resources.

IND M SS ST 35 Less Significant

Health, Water Supply and sanitation

Likely impact on physical and mental health of local community

D L SS ST 25 Less Significant

6. Occupational Hazards and safety

Possibility to increase construction related accidents. D M L ST 45 Less Significant

7. Impact on house, settlement and social infrastructure

About 15 settlements, 712 private structures 24 public structures will be affected.

D H L LT 100 Highly

Significant

8.

Damage on houses/structures due to vibration created during blasting

The settlements near to powerhouse area and tailrace tunnel will be impacted due to vibration created during blasting.

D H L LT 100 Highly

Significant

9. Impact on communal resources

There will be extra pressure in the existing communal resources when used by the construction workers and their dependents.

D M L ST 45 Less Significant

10.

Impact on local infrastructures, peoples' mobility and transportation pattern

Increase traffic due to project activities will affect the normal movement pattern of local people and tourists

and also likely to increase the accidental events in the project area

D H L LT 100 Highly

Significant

11. Degradation of Agricultural land

The preparatory work for the setting of construction camps, construction equipment, parking of construction vehicles will degrade the agricultural land and its

D H L LT 100 Highly

Significant



S. N.




productivity.

12. Gender and Vulnerable group

There may be discrimination to women and vulnerable group while hiring workers.

D L L ST 35 Less Significant

13. Transmission of communicable diseases

Temporary migration of skilled and unskilled workers as well as foreigners and people from different parts of country may carry different communicable diseases which might spread to the local people through different modes of transmission such as air, water, and food contaminated by the carriers.

IND M L LT 60 Significant

14.

Probable impact due to increase child labor, an accidental risk and disturbance to the educational pattern

Due to poor economic condition of the people of the project area and the attraction of extra earning from project, the children will be attracted in working with the project than going to school for education. This will definitely affect educational pattern of project area.

D M L ST 45 Less Significant

15. Impact on Social, Cultural and Religious Practices and norms/values

The large number of outside workers belonging to different religious and cultural belief will interact with local people directly or indirectly and may impose their own beliefs knowingly or unknowingly which may bring some sort of conflict and unrest in the area.

D L L ST 35 Less Significant

16. Religious, Historical and

Archeological Site Need to relocate some religious structure. D H SS LT 90

Highly

Significant

17. Impact on local people due to increase in economic activity

Increasing the earnings of local people may also increase social evils.

D M L MT 50 Significant

18. Law and Order

Increasing the conflict of interest among workers and also between project management and the local communities will increase pressure to maintain the law and order.

IND L L ST 35 Less Significant

19. Impacts of Aesthetics

The proposed project can change the visual quality of an area by introducing structures, cables, power-substations, lights, dam, tunnel inlet portal, tunnel outlet portal, camp house, powerhouse and others.


Operation Phase

1. Decrease in agricultural production due to loss of agricultural land

The productive agriculture lands, occupied by permanent structures and reservoir, will hinder the agriculture production and hence its productivity.

D L L LT 50 Significant



S. N.




2. Possible Impact due to sudden release of water

The sudden release of water at downstream of Kaligandaki River, without any prior information, can lead to washing away of animals and humans near by the stream.


3. Impact on local people due to decrease in economic activities

With the completion of construction phase, the highly active situation will almost come to a standstill which will result in overall slowdown of economic activity.

D L L MT 40 Less Significant

4. Possible impact on gender and children

Since there will be very limited project activities during the operation phase, no significant impact on women, children and others vulnerable groups is expected.

D L L M 40 Less Significant

5. Occupational health and safety

Lack of training on operation and maintenance skill and unavailability of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) may also cause risks for human live.

D L L LT 50 Significant

6. Impact to downstream projects

Downstream water level of Kaligandaki River will increase with additional water flow of Andhikhola River (73.00m3/s) which will impact the downstream water users of powerhouse.

D H SS LT 90 Highly

Significant

Andhikhola Storage HEP (180 MW) Alternative Analysis


6 ALTERNATIVE ANALYSIS

6.1 Introduction Each project has unique characteristics depending upon its type, location and other factors

causing more alternatives that are possible. All possible alternatives are to investigate and

examine in order to find option that is more attractive. Primary objective of alternative analysis

is to select best option among different choices considering technical, environment and

economical aspect.

The technical feasibility of the project depends upon the water availability, topographical and

geological condition of the project area whereas the economic viability depends on the project

cost and benefit analysis and the environmental acceptability is the magnitude of the project

impact on the physical, biological, social and cultural environment of the project area.

Master Plan Study of the Gandaki River Basin financed by UNDP identified Andhikhola Storage

Hydroelectric Project in 1979. Different alternative layouts have been studied during various

study phase from 1997-2019. These alternative layout studied in different phase has been

discuss in following section.

6.2 Alternative Layout Study

6.2.1 Project Layout according to the Feasibility Study Report of 1997/98

A feasibility study Phase I of Andhi Khola Storage Hydroelectric Project was carried out in

1997/98 by NEA. The study has proposed the dam site D(I) at about 1.5 km upstream of

confluence of Andhi khola and Kaligandaki River. Another alternative dam axis D(II) has been

proposed at about 4.5 km upstream of confluence of Andhi khola and Kaligandaki River at

Chhare Village. The river bed level of Dam axis D(I) and D(II) is at 525masl and 560 masl

respectively. Two alternatives sites of power houses has been proposed with one at about 1.5

km downstream of the existing Kali Gandaki “A” HEP powerhouse and another alternative

Powerhouse has been located at about 12 km downstream of the existing Kali Gandaki “A”

HEP Powerhouse.

Hence, four alternatives of the project layout has been proposed are illustrated in Drawing

No.6.1. The comparison table of four options is as follows:

Table 6-1: Comparison table of four options

S

No.

Description Option-I Option-II Option-III Option-IV

1 Location of

Dam Axis

1.5 km upstream

of confluence

1.5 km upstream of

confluence

4.5 km upstream

of confluence

4.5 km

upstream of

confluence

2 Location of

Powerhouse

1.5 km

downstream of

existing Kali

Gandaki “A” HEP

12 km downstream

of the existing Kali

Gandaki “A” HEP

1.5 km

downstream of

existing Kali

Gandaki “A” HEP

12 km

downstream of

Gandaki “A”

HEP

3 Tunnel length

(km)

1.3 3.1 1.3 3.1

4 Shaft Length

(km)

0.85 2 0.85 2

Source: Updated Feasibility Study Report of AKHEP, 2019



6.2.2 Environmental comparison of alternatives

Landuse comparison

Component Option 1

Option 2 Option 3 Option 4 Remarks

Dam Axis Private

barren

land

Private

barren

land

Private

barren land

Private

barren land

All the alternatives have studied

dam axis in Andhimuhan with

slight change in location. So,

biological and social impacts of

all the alternatives are not

significantly different.

Intake Private

barren

land

Private

barren

land

Private

barren land

Private

barren land

The first two options studied the

intake options at about 300 m

upstream of the Chharak

settlement in private barren land

whereas, the later options

studied it near at Illunga in

private barren land along the left

bank of Andhikhola. This shows

that, all the options studied

intake at private barren land.

So, biological and social

impacts of all the alternatives

are not significantly different.

Powerhous

e

Private

cultivatio

n

Private

cultivatio

n

Private

cultivation

Private

cultivation

and forest

land

The options 1, 2 and 3 studied

powerhouse in private land at

same location while option 4 is

located at downhill of them, in

the left bank of the Kaligandaki

in forest.

All the alternatives (options) were optimized for the 180 MW power generation from Andhikhola.

Irrespective of tunnel length, which is underground, the area occupied by all the project facilities

are almost same. All the alternatives are lies within the same geological area and administrative

boundaries. So, biological and social impacts of all the alternatives will not be significantly

different.

In all alternatives, Intake was located near at Illunga in private barren land. Dam axis of all the

alternatives was also located on private barren in Andhimuhan. Apart from 1997/98

recommendation, all other studies recommended power house in the same locality. Studies on

2013, and 2015 located powerhouse in private land whereas the 2018 study located it on forest

land.

In all the alternatives studied, access road for the dam axis will be the same. Accessibility to the

intake will be through construction of new road in private land of about equal length. New

access road to be constructed for the accessibility of powerhouse of all alternatives. The same

will provide accessibility to the powerhouse of alternatives 1, 2 and 3, and about 200m

extension on it will provide accessibility to powerhouse of 4. This shows that, there is not

significantly differences in social and environmental impacts in these alternatives studied.



While considering vegetation, vegetation information of the respective project components

presented in this EIA report gives exact analogy to the vegetation of respective project

component of different alternatives. In addition, all the biological information and predicted

project impacts on biological environment of all the alternatives studied will be same.

In social aspects, PAA of all the alternatives are Galyang municipality, Waling municipality,

Kaligandaki RM and Ramba RM. Reservoir of all the alternatives will inundate almost the same

area and locality. The same communities that are studied in this report are the impacted

communities of all the alternatives.

6.2.3 Project Layout according to the Feasibility Study Report of 2013

NEA carried out the feasibility study of Andhikhola Storage Hydroelectric Project in 2013. The

study had proposed the dam site D (III) at about 3.5 km upstream of confluence of Andhikhola

and Kaligandaki River.The river bed level of this location is 560 masl. Two alternatives sites of

power houses has been proposed with one at about 1.5 km downstream of the existing Kali

Gandaki “A” HEPpowerhouse and the other at about 12 km downstream of the existing Kali

Gandaki “A” HEPPowerhouse.

The tunnel length varies with the location of powerhouse. With the powerhouse P(I) at

Tokanchaur village, the layout has the tunnel length of about 1.60 km with inclined shaft length

of about 0.80 km and with the powerhouse P(II) at Balpuk village, the layout has the tunnel

length of about 5.20 km with inclined shaft length of about 2.0 km. The drawing No. 6.2

illustrates the project layout studided in Feasibility Study Report of 2013.Recommended option

layout plan of feasibility study report of 2013 is Dam D(III) with intake-2 along the Powerhouse

P(II) (Drawing No. 6.2)

6.2.4 Project Layout according to the Feasibility Study Report of 2014/2015

The Feasibilty Study (2014 and 2015) adopted four alternatives of project layouts. Two dam

axis has been proposed for the alternative study. One dam site D (I) is located at about 1.5 km

and another D(II) is located at 4.5 kmupstream of confluence of Andhi khola and Kaligandaki

River.The river bed level of D(I) and D(II) is 525masl and 560 masl respectively.Two possible

powerhouse locations were observed, both being on the left bank of the Kali Gandaki River.

One option is located at about 1.5 km downstream of powerhouse of the existing Kali Gandaki

“A” HEP with tailwater elevation of about 400 masl. And the another option is about 12.0 km

downstream of existing Kali Gandaki “A” HEP powerhouse with tail water elevation of 370 masl.

The Drawing No. 6.3 illustrates all the four alternatives.Recommended option layout plan of

feasibility study report of 2015 is Dam D(I) with intake (IA) along the Powerhouse P(II)

(Drawing No. 6.3)

6.2.5 Project Layout according to the Upgraded Feasibility Study Report of 2017-

2018/2019

In 2017, NEA technical team visited the project site and decided to change the previously

designed underground Powerhouse to Semi underground Powerhouse. Similarly, inclined

Pressure shaft has been changed to vertical Drop Shaft due to weak geological condition.

Furthermore, in November 2017, The JICA/NEWJEK Expert Team visited the Andhikhola

Storage HEP site and recommended the next alternative Dam Site D (IV) at 2.7 km upstream of

Andhikhola –Kaligandaki confluence.A new Intake (IB) site has been proposed which is about

600m upstream of previously proposed Intake(IA) site.Intake(IA) site located near Illunga



village with wide valley which is found to be safe to provide the enough space for volume

required during sudden draw down of reservoir has been selected.

On the other side, Surge Shaft (II) has been selected as better option because it is safer and

easier to excavate. Therefore, the Surge shaft (II) has been chosen as better option.

The option Powerhouse P(IIA) is selected which is 12 km downstream of the existing Kali

Gandaki “A” HEP Powerhouse than Powehouse P(I),1.5 km downstream of powerhouse of the

existing Kali Gandaki “A” HEP due to the existence of big landslide. The Drawing No. 6.4

illustrates all the alternatives.Recommended option layout plan of feasibility study report of

2018 is Dam D(IV) with intake (IA) along the Powerhouse P(II) as shown in drawing No.

6.4.Here layout of 2018/19 is adopted.

6.2.6 No Forest Option

The proposed AKSHEP with an installed capacity of 180 MW has particularly impacts on

private unarable (Kharbari),cultivated and settlements land. No forest option was also studied,

but it is not practically possible due to the association with the forest patch. In order to avoid the

forest areas, project components are proposed either at the edge or low forest canopy cover.

The project and components is associated withgovernment forest and community forests. The

other project components will also be constructed in the cultivated area in order to avoid forest

clearance to the maximum extent possible.

In order to minimize and /or mitigate the loss of forest, the project proponent will provide

kerosene to the project working for cooking purpose. Besides, the replacement plantation in the

ratio 1:10 trees will be carried out in the project areas to mitigate the loss of trees with due

consideration with DFO offices and the Community Forest Users’ Groups of the concerned

districts. The implementation of the project will be done in accordance with the existing forest

acts, rules and regulations.

6.2.7 No Project Option

Nepal has been facing an acute shortage of peak load during the past few years. The present

installed capacity of the Integrated Nepal Power System (INPS) is only about 1050 MW as of

July 2018/2019 and the peak demand is nearly 1500 MW. The construction of the run-of-river

type of projects will generate surplus power in the wet season, while there is a deficit during the

dry season. Therefore, storage projects like AKSHEP is essential in order to balance INPS

throughout the all seasons.

Andhi Khola Storage HEP (180 MW) Mitigation and Enhancement Measures


7 MITIGATION AND ENHANCEMENT MEASURES

The mitigation and enhancement measures outlined in this chapter have been proposed to

minimized potential adverse impacts and enhance the beneficial impacts identified during the

study. Adverse and beneficial impacts those that are not identified or predetermined during the

study, if later discovered during the construction phases will be explicitly mitigated or enhanced

by the project proponent.

The general discussion is organized into three categories of physical, biological, and socio-

economic and cultural aspects, and has been split into construction and operation phases in an

equivalent manner as for Chapter 5 - Environmental Impacts. The mitigation measures to be

carried out have been listed below. The project proponent will implement all the proposed

mitigation measures and enhancement measures, monitoring plans described in the respective

chapters as his prime responsibility. In addition, the project will take responsibility of

compensating as per the prevailing law for any losses or damage caused to livelihoods and

property during construction and operation phases.

7.1 Physical Environment To minimize the adverse impacts and maximize the environmental benefit on the physical

environment aspect of the AKSHEP following mitigation measure have been proposed.

Minimization of land taken and soil disturbances wherever feasible will be the primary mitigation

measures of the project.


7.1.1.1 Topography and Land Use

The project will acquire approximately 913 ha permanently and 52.82 ha temporarily. The

impact on permanently acquired land is unavoidable. Still, there are opportunities in re-

establishing the existing land for better quality. The area used by the project like labor camp,

spoil and muck disposal area, quarry sites etc. will be temporarily acquired and will be restore to

better condition with proper landscaping before return to the land owner.

Wherever possible, the project will utilize lower value production land for project facilities in

preference to higher value land. The permanently acquired land will be compensated as per

government rules.

7.1.1.2 Soil Erosion and Land Instability

Soil erosion and land instabilities are mainly due to construction of the access roads, quarry site

and barrow pits. To minimize the probable adverse impacts following mitigation prescription

have been proposed:

Access road

• Balancing of cut and fills in the road construction alignments – cut sites and filling sites

shall be delineated prior to excavation.

• Construction of retaining walls and gabions to protect soil mass

• A drainage plan for the access roads shall be developed to minimize the effect of drainage

disruption and associated erosion and sedimentation.

• Minimization of clearing and ground disturbance

• Topsoil saving- Fertile topsoil will be removed and stockpiled at identified suitable site for

reuse and rehabilitation.

• All cut and fill area shall be rehabilitated progressively using suitable bioengineering

measures.



Quarry and Barrow pit

To minimized soil erosion during excavation works following prescription are recommended;

• Avoid the big and deep borrow pit at one location.

• The quarry operation shall not be carried below the flowing water level of the river

• Surface strip mining will be enforced for the extraction of aggregate

• The water discharge from aggregate washing plant will be collected in settling tank/ponds

at suitable location for sedimentation and treatment.

Underground Work

• Controlled use of explosive to limit the disturbance to ground condition.

• Use of rock breaker instead of explosive are effective for the excavation of weathered rock

and will be enforced

Spoil Disposal Site

• Spoil will not be deposited in the inclined slope areas.

• Spoil will not be deposited across the drainage line.

• Toe protection wall for all spoil disposal site.

• Benched outward slopes on the spoil deposits to avoid slope failure

• Spoil disposal area will be located above the high flood level

7.1.1.3 Changes in Air Quality

To minimize the impacts on local air quality during construction of project components following

measures are recommended:

• Regular sprinkling of water in the earthen/gravel of road corridor at least three times in a

day in dry season;

• Compact and water sprinkling regularly in the spoil disposal site

• Speed limits for the vehicles plying in the dusty construction roads

• Use of construction vehicles/equipment/compressors/diesel generating sets comply with

government mass emissions standard

• The project will discourage the use biomass as fuel within the camps for heating and

cooking purpose. The project will ensure that an alternate commercial fuel for the heating

and cooking within the project camps.

• Stabilization and covering of the loose stockpiles by using appropriate measures.

7.1.1.4 Noise and Vibrations

Following measures have been recommended for the control of noise and vibration during

implementation.

• Speed restriction to the construction vehicles in areas close to the settlement and

structures.

• Restriction on unnecessary use of Horns

• Regular maintenance of all the equipment as per manufactures specification to reduce the

engine noises

• Aggregate crushing and blasting work in day time

• Strict to control blasting limited to extent that is required at its minimum level to minimize

noise levels and vibrations.

• Notification to the communities prior to noisy activities (particularly surface blasting)

• Compensation to the damage of structure, if found related to the vibration and

overpressure.



7.1.1.5 Changes in Water Quality

To minimize the impacts on the water quality of the nearby water bodies and other surface and

sub-surface receiving water bodies following mitigation measures are recommended.

• Provision of a good sanitary facilities with adequate toilet, washing tap, drinking water

facilities and sanitation facilities in the construction camp

• Prohibition of the discharge of the sanitary liquids and toxic liquids such as spent oils,

burnt mobile, grease, lubricants, grouting chemicals etc. in land and water bodies from the

construction sites.

• Establishment of separate area for the collection and storage of hazard and toxic material

waste including batteries, oil filters, Mobil, burnt oil etc.

• Provision of solid waste management system at Camps. Establishment of separate

storage area for the wastes of packing materials such as plastic bag, jute bags, cardboard,

paper etc. for later reuse or sale

• Prohibition on open urination and defecation in waterways, around camps and

construction sites,

• Establishment of primary water treatment facilities for effluent discharges of the tunnel;

aggregate washing plant and cement batch plant on each work site and release the

discharge only after primary treatment. This can be done with the establishment of

sedimentation ponds/tank so that waste water is allow to pass through sediment tanks

before release in land or water bodies

• Prohibition of quarrying of aggregates and sand from the river’s wet channel

• Provision of training to the labor force in using storage areas with regard to safe handling

to toxic and non-toxic water material.

7.1.1.6 Changes in Soil Quality

Various construction activities generate different types of wastes, which has to be disposed on

land. This will have direct impact on soil quality in the construction period. The mitigation

measures prescribe for water quality is adequate for avoidance and minimization of land

pollution.

7.1.1.7 Spoil and Muck Management

Spoil generated from construction of tunnel can be managed in construction of dam and nearby

land development. Following are some recommended works for proper management of spoil

and muck.

• First priority will be given for reduce and reuse of spoil.

• Segregation of spoil as stone, aggregate and soil. Use stone for structure, aggregate for

construction and soil for backfilling

• Use of spoil in backfilling and leveling of road.

• Use spoil for backfilling and land development with proper compaction, grading

• Use of Muck in construction of dam and other embankment

• Muck generated also can be used in upgrading the internal and local earthen road

• Construction of toe wall or retaining wall at dumping site.

• Construction of side drain and surface drainage system at dumping site.

7.1.1.8 Labor Camp Management

External labor force can introduce social conflict, deforestation, pollution of surface and ground

waters from unsanitary waste disposal practices. The following mitigation measures will be

taken during construction period of project.

• Camp will not be located near settlements



• Camp will be operate within a self-sufficient infrastructure like water supply, toilet.

• Workers will be prohibited from poaching wildlife and cutting tree

• Cooking fuel, Water and sanitation facilities will be provided within the camp

• Solid waste will be managed according to the following preference hirerachy: reduce, and

reuse,

• After completion of work, the site will be rehabilitated to improved condition

7.1.1.9 Stockpiling of Construction materials

The mitigation measures that will be followed for the impacts associated with stockpiling of

construction materials are as below;

• Stockpiling sites will be properly fenced. Side drain will be constructed mixing of chemicals

and explosive to the water bodies and soil will be prohibited.

• Leased land used for stockpiling will be restored into original shape to the extent possible.

• The project will make necessary arrangement for the proper storage and handling of

construction material to avoid environmental nuisance.

• As far as possible the stockpiling of construction material will be carried out in treeless area

or barrenland

• The cost required for the mitigation of impact generated from construction activities has

been incorporated in the civil cost of the project

7.1.1.10 Changes in River Morphology due to Quarry sites

All the activities within the riverbed will be planned properly during the construction stage. After

quarrying of construction materials, land will be rehabilitate to the natural condition.

• Quarrying operation in the flood plain will be stripping operation rather than forming a big

borrow pit at one location

• The quarry operation will not be carried below the flowing water level of river

• Excavation of aggregate from the river wet channel will be prohibited.

• Maximum digging of quarry sites will be maintained up to 3 m considering vulnerability of

site.

7.1.1.11 Handling of Explosive

The handling, storage and operation of bunker house, explosive and detonator will be done as

per GoN rules under direct supervision of Nepal Army.

Proper handling of explosives includes the following requirements:

• The explosive procurement, transportation, storage and use is strictly controlled by the

provisions of the Explosive Act in Nepal

• Explosives will be kept at bunker under the direct supervision and security of Nepal Army;

• The explosive will be procure, transport, storage and use under the supervision and security

of Nepal Army;

• Access to explosives will be tightly controlled; and

• Explosives will be handled in accordance with the manufactures instructions and

specifications and other relevant standards and regulations practiced by Nepal Army


7.1.2.1 Land stability and erosion control

Landslides and soil erosion can be triggered by many causes like rainfall, slope digging,

excessive weight above slope, and earthquake force. Settlement like Gyalang, Illunga, Chharak,

Devisthan are located at uphill side of Andhikhola. Soil erosion and landslide brings disaster to

the settlement particularly when settlement are located at uphill side. Hence, it is required to



take slope stabilization measure during operation phase of project around the reservoir area.

Slopes strengthen and protection is necessary at downhill side of these settlement and other

potential weak zone. Following measures are recommended for slope stabilization and detail

design and assessment is to be incorporated in detail design of project.

• Reinforcement measures with metal nails or anchors in order to increase the shear strength

of rock.

• Shotcrete onto the surface with the concrete. This stabilization method also used to improve

stability of rock slope.

• Surface erosion control measures with different techniques like, use of geogrids and

geomats, steel wire mesh, breast wall, stone pitching and bioengineering works.

7.1.2.2 Impact related to Upstream water user

Andhikhola Hydroelectric project (9.4MW): The implementation of proposed project

inundated the intake structure of existing hydropower of 9.4 MW. The average annual energy

generated by this hydropower is about 70.73 GWh. With the implementation of proposed

storage project, there will be loss of capital invested in this hydropower and revenue earn from

energy for the existing hydroelectric project.

As per the power purchase agreement (PPA) between NEA and BPC, if NEA constructs

Andhikhola Storage HEP, BPC will not get any kind of compensation for the inundation of

headwork structure of existing Andhikhola HEP and other loss related to energy and revenue.

However, if BPC wise to continue to operate existing hydropower, it can modify or relocate the

intake site with its own cost without any additional cost to the NEA. Thus, there exist two case

scenario for BPC; first, continue to operate existing HEP with modification of intake and second,

terminate to operate existing HEP.For this Seneriao Management plan is prepared in section

9.6.2

Irrigation system operated by AKWUA: The intake of existing hydropower not only serves

water for the hydropower but also for irrigation system in some area (about 500 ha) of Palpa

and Syanga district. Thus, there will be loss in the productivity of irrigated area with the

implementation of proposed storage project.

It is therefore, valuable to preserve the benefit associate with existing hydroelectric project and

irrigation system. To mitigate the impact on the existing hydroelectric project, and irrigation

system, renovation or relocation of intake structure and headwork structures along with tunnel is

recommended. The detail works need to be carried out during detail design phase of the

proposed project.

7.1.2.3 Impact related to Physical Infrastructures

With the development of project, infrastructure like RCC Motorable bridges, trail bridges,

existing road, office buildings, religious structures etc. will be affected within reservoir area.

Project proponent will be responsible for compensation of these structures and construction of

necessary structure for movability of local people. Therefore, detail works need to be carried

out during detail design phase of project in order to provide accessibility and movability of local

people for the construction of road, and trail bridges or motorable bridges or any other means of

transportation.

7.1.2.4 Protection of reservoir rim failure or draw down

The rise and fall of the reservoir water level take place during operation period of hydropower.

This alternate varying condition in soil mass brings structural weakness leading to the failure of

slopes around the reservoir rim. Slope stabilization works need to be carried out around the



reservoir inundated area. Soil nailing, shotcreting, grouting, dry or wet stone pitching methods

can be used for slope protection. For this purpose, detail geological investigation around the

reservoir area need to be carried out and protection work need to be done accordingly.

7.1.3 Recommendation for future Study

1. Alternative Analysis considering upstream water user

Existing hydropower and irrigation facilities have provided significant advantage to the local

level. To secure benefit and capital associate with existing project, an alternative analysis is

recommended considering the existing hydropower and irrigation system. Hence, it is crucial to

study the project as multipurpose project. The detail work for this need to be incorporated during

detail design phase of the proposed project.

2. Landslide Hazard Assessment Work

During field study, major and minor landslides within the watershed and along the both sides of

Andhikhola were observed. There are settlements like Galyang, Illunga, Sera, Charrak,

Devisthan, Bayatari at uphill side on either side of Andhikhola. It is therefore, recommended for

the landslide hazard assessments of catchment area of Andhikhola so that possible risk

associated with land stability and erosion can be evaluate and mitigate in time. The detail work

for this should be done during detail design phase of the proposed project.

7.1.4 Summary of Mitigation Cost for Physical Environment

Table 7-1: Preliminary Cost Break Down of Physical Environment

S.N. Description Cost (NRs)

1 Hazard assessment (for initial 5 years of operation) 1,00,00,000

2 Protection of reservoir rim erosion (for initial 5 years of operation) 15,00,00,000

3 Protection of Highway near Galyang Bazar 10,00,00,000

Total 260,000,000

7.2 Biological Environment The mitigation measures prescribed for the impacts on biological environment during the project

construction and operation phases are as follows:


7.2.1.1 Minimizing the Forest Clearance

Loss of forest for the proposed project is unavoidable. In the reservoir area of the project, the

potential forest clearance area is up to the free board area of reservoir, that is, 710 masl. So, in

order to minimize the forest clearance, felling of trees above the full supply level of the reservoir

will be minimized to the extent possible. In the access road area, not all the trees within the

RoW of the roads will be felled. Trees within the formation width (Carriageway, shoulder and

drain) will be felled.

7.2.1.2 Compensatory Plantation and Forest Land Replacement

Loss of forest is unavoidable in this project with project development options. Two mitigation

options could be envisaged to mitigate the impacts in the forest: Compensatory measure and

Offset measure. To mitigate potential impacts in terms of biodiversity and forest, implementation

of offset measures will be the first option. In line with the “Working Procedures with Standards

for the Use of National Forest Land for National Priority Project-2076”, the project will

afforestrate 10 saplings for every single tree loss in an area not exceeding 1600 trees per

hectare, and will look after for five years. In total 81,920 seedlings will be planted as

compensatory plantation. The proponent will request to DFO, and FUGs to locate the land for



plantation. Plantation designs for each specific sites identified will be developed after

consultation and interaction with the concerned stakeholders. As an option, the proponent will

deposit the required amount as per the forest norms to the division forest office required for

afforestation and 5-year caretaking. The proponent will also make necessary arrangement for

training on forest development to users.

Similarly, as per the same Working procedure, forestland replacement will be done. As this

project will permanently acquire 17.765 ha of forest, the project shall purchase same area of

land, in other place, and hand over to the MoFE. For purchasing of 17.765 ha of land, NRs.

28,399,573/- (@1,598,625/ha) is estimated as per appendix I of the same working procedure.

Before handing over, the afforestation will be done in these land (at the standard ratio of 1600

seedlings per ha). Therefore, plantation of 28,424 number of seedlings will be done for 17.765

ha of permanently acquired forest. In total 110,344 number of seedlings will be planted.

7.2.1.3 Harvesting Cost

In line with the “Working Procedures with Standards for the Use of National Forest Land for

National Priority Project-2076”, the project will make all financial arrangement for harvesting,

logging and transportation of logs to the DFO. The compensation cost for the harvesting,

logging and transportation of forest is part of project construction work and will be included in

construction cost hence it is not estimated separately in this EIA Report.

7.2.1.4 Compensation to Private Tree loss

As far as possible, project will minimize the tree loss from the private land. In case of reservoir

inundation area and camp area, tree loss in unavoidable. Detail inventory of private trees (fruit,

fodder and timber) to be felled will be prepared with the help of DFO, DHR and District

Agriculture office. The project will paid cash compensation to all private tree loss.

7.2.1.5 Supply of Fuel to Workers

To the extent possible, construction workers will be prevented from the use of fuel wood for

cooking their food items. The project proponent will provide either kerosene/LPG or any

alternative fuel to the extent possible to project workers staying at temporary/permanent labor

camps to minimize forest loss in order to meet their fuel wood demand. Similarly, provision of

fire-fighting equipment at vulnerable areas and training of workers in the use of this equipment

will be carried-out.

7.2.1.6 Controlling NTFPs Collection

Construction labor will be strictly prohibited to enter into the nearby forest and the private land

for the collection and type of the NTFPs. Project and proponent in coordination with the

respective CFUGs and local people will control the NTFPs collection by labour. Similarly, the

project in coordination with the DFO will implement awareness raising program to the local

people.

7.2.1.7 Habitat Loss and fragmentation

The impact of vegetation clearance on habitat loss/change is a permanent phenomenon.

However, the compensatory plantation of trees and awareness for forest management and

wildlife conservation is considered to help for minimizing the impact to some extent. Selection of

the tree species for the compensatory plantation will be done to develop a healthy forest

ecosystem comparable to lost one. The clearing of trees will be done manually causing less

impact on adjoining vegetation.



7.2.1.8 Restriction on Hunting and Poaching

The project workers will strictly be prevented from hunting and poaching, and any other kind of

illegal activities related to hunting and poaching. The construction work within forest area will be

coordinated through DFO and FUGs. Informative and warning sign will be placed at relevant

construction sites. The contractor who is liable to control his labor in this regard will be

instructed strictly for application of specification regarding hunting and poaching control.

7.2.1.9 Minimizing impacts of Construction Disturbances

Construction disturbances of the project will be minimized by the following ways;

a) Re-route of material delivering vehicles away from the settlement and forest if possible.

b) Place noisy site equipment away from forest/settlement area.

c) Combine noisy operation to occur in the same time; the total noise level produces will

not significantly greater than the level produced if they are operated separately.

d) Do not work in nighttime.

7.2.1.10 Impacts on Protected Species of Flora and Fauna

The proponent and contractor will strictly control their labour force to enter into forest and fishing

activities. The AKSHEP in coordination with CFUGs will conduct awareness campaign to the

construction workers and local people.


Dry biomass of the forest and vegetation after the site clearance will be properly managed. The

contractor shall aware the labour force on potential sources of fire hazard and will train on use

of fire fighting. Contractor will manage fire fighters to every labour camp.


7.2.2.1 Compensatory Plantation and Forest Land Replacement

As per the “Working Procedures with Standards for the Use of National Forest Land for National

Priority Project-2076”, the plantation site shall be managed by the proponent for five years or

required cost for such management must be paid to DFO.

7.2.2.2 Habitat Loss and fragmentation

Poundage by reservoir will have significant habitat changes in the aquatic water body. Not all

the impacts of the project could be mitigated. To minimize the adverse impacts in the dewatered

zones, minimum flow in the dewatered zones of the Andhikhola River will be maintained.

Existing fish hatchery of Kaligandaki HEP will be upgraded.

The issues of habitat fragmentation of wild fauna is hard to address and the impact is

unavoidable in the propose project. Therefore, the project in coordination with the DFO office

will help to maintain the healthy wild environment at downstream of the reservoir to allow the

wildlife movement if any. During operation phase, no mitigation measures will be adopted

regarding habitat loss/ change of wild animals and birds.

7.2.2.3 Downstream Flow Release

Flow is a key feature in determining the complexity of aquatic habitats within the river’s riffle, run

and pools environment. In the above three environments of the river, the water flow velocity has

a special relationship with the substrate that influences aquatic macro and micro invertebrates

and algae growth, which are very important to riverine fish and river using predators. In Nepal

there is limited information of minimum water requirements for survival of fish in nursery pools

during dry season. Knowledge on the physical factors such as flow characteristics, temperature,

water quality, which influences the migration, and spawning of these fish species, is also limited.



The dewater zone of the project is about two km. So, the project will release not less than 10%

of the minimum monthly average discharge (0.31 cumec) as per the Hydropower Development

Policy, 2001. The downstream release from the dam is important factor as it is related with

downstream water uses and survival of downstream aquatic life and fish migration.

The dewater streatch of the dam is about 2km as there is Kaligandaki dam downstream. In that

2 km streatch there is no any water users except Kaligandaki HEP. So, 10% of the minimum

monthly average discharge from the dam will not have any impact on downstream users except

Kaligandaki.

Regarding aquatic life, fish ladder will not be effective measures to allow fish migration in such

167 m high dam. So, provision of fish hatchery has been proposed. Regarding downstream

flow, the dewater streatched is short. Back water from the Kaligandaki dam regularly inundate

almost the whole streatch between two dams. So, not less than 10% of the minimum monthly

average discharge from dam will not have significant impact on the aquatic life.

7.2.2.4 Fish Hatchery

The construction of the dam will convert the lotic system to lentic system in the upstream region

(reservoir area), which will affect the aquatic diversity. Therefore, the changed environment may

not be suitable for the native water current loving fish like snow trout. However, some open

water stocking program for snow trout will be carried-out.

Upgradation of fish hatchery of Kaligandaki HEP is proposed. In order to improve the livelihood

of the project-affected people, fish fingerlings will be produced, released upstream, and

downstream of the dam of Andhikhola as well. The locals will be encouraged to establish

community-level fish farming. The fish-breeding center will focus not only on improved varieties

of fish for commercial farming but also in the conservation of the native fish species. For the

upgradation of fish hatchery, NRs 10,000,000 will be allocated.

7.2.3 Enhancement Measures

Enhanced measures proposed in this section aims to enhance the beneficial impacts of the

project and either prevent or minimize the negative impacts of the project. As an enhancement

measure, awareness raising and conservation of wildlife and management of forest.

7.2.3.1 Training on Forest Management

Training program on forest management and wildlife conservation will be carried out at five

different places. The following table shows the estimated cost for carrying out such awareness

programs.

Table 7-2: Cost for Training on Forest Management and Wildlife Conservation

S. N. Description Unit Day Quantity Rate (NRs) Total Amount (NRs)

1 Program coordinator No. 7 7 5,000 35,000

2 Tea/snacks for participants No. 7 20 1,000 140,000

3 Training expert No. 7 14 5,000 70,000

4 Training material and logistic LS 500,000

5 Assistance LS 255,000

Total Cost for conducting one program 10,00,000

Grand Total for conducting 5 program 5,000,000

7.2.3.2 Fish Conservation Awareness Program

Fish Conservation Awareness Program is proposed to aware people involved in fishing, local

government stakeholders and project workers. The mode of awareness program will be



delivered through lecture with audiovisual broadcast. Local and regional FM Radio could be

used to create such awareness program.

7.2.4 Biological Mitigation and Enhancement Cost

The total biological mitigation (including land cost) and enhancement cost is estimated to be

NRs 103,578,373

Table 7-3: Mitigation Measures Cost

S.

N. Mitigation Program Unit/ Rate Total Amount (NRs)

1.

Compensatory plantation of 110344 seedlings. (including

seedling purchase/preparation, site preparation, pitting,

transporting, composting, mulching and replacement

based on mortality)

200 22,068,800

2. Management/ take care of planted site for 5 years 4 man/day 5,110,000

3. Support for fencing at specific planted sites LS 20,000,000

4. Placement of informative and warning signs for forest

management and wildlife conservation LS 1,000,000

5. Cost of buying land in replacement of permanently acquired area in reservoir and access road in forest area (17.765 ha) for handing to DFO

Rs 1,598,625/

per ha 28,399,573

6 Training on Forest Development 4 5,000,000

7 Fish Conservation Awareness Campaign LS 2,000,000

9 Upgradation of fish hatchery LS 10,000,000

10 Hatchery operation cost for 5 years 2,000,000

per /year 10,000,000

Sub Total-1 (including Land Cost) 103,578,373

7.3 Socio-economic and Cultural Environment Mitigation as well as enhancement measures for all identified significant impacts on socio-

economic and cultural environment have been considered in this section of EIA report. In the

same way, corporate responsibility of the project for different social sector has been identified

and discussed briefly here.

Each of the identified impacts during construction as well as operation phase has been

evaluated in detail and cost effective mitigation measures are suggested to minimize impacts.

The cost of mitigation measures in different titles is calculated and mentioned in report.


7.3.1.1 Acquisition Land and Structure

i. Compensation for Permanently Acquired Land

Land for reservoir area and over which structures will be constructed will be permanently

acquired whereas land required only for construction purpose will be temporarily leased for the

required period. Project will provide appropriate compensation to all of the PAFs/SPAFs as the

rate determined by Compensation Determination Committee (CDC). During the public

consultation, local people demanded cash compensation for the affected land. According to the

GoN laws and regulations, it is mandatory to provide cash compensation for the acquired land

and property. Compensations paid and settled immediately after acquisition are administratively

much simpler and economically.

The project will acquired 780 ha of private land. Out of total, 734.566 hector is permanent land

(for reservoir, camp areas of dam and powerhouse and access road) and 45.21 hector is

temporary land (for labor camp, muck disposal area, bunker site, and stock piling area). Land



will be acquired to Land Acquisition Act, 2034. Mitigation cost for permanently acquired land is

estimated to be NRs. 11,551,268,220.

Table 7-4: Estimated Cost for Land Acquisition

S.

N. Project Component Area (ha)

Price Per

Ropani Area (Ropani) Amount (NRs.)

1 Khet 81.32 700,000 1597.938 1,118,556,600

2 Bari 195.67 300,000 3844.9155 1,153,474,650

3

Ghaderi

Galyang+Bayatari 32.37 10,000,000 636.0705 6,360,705,000

Elunga+Devisthan 21.715 2,000,000 426.69975 853,399,500

Motichaur 6.568 500,000 129.0612 64,530,600

4

Kharbari

Bayatari to Tallo

Galyang 132.798 300,000 2609.4807 782,844,210

Tallo Galyang to Dam 309.862 200,000 6088.7883 1,217,757,660

Total 780.303 15332.95395 11,551,268,220

The land price varies from place to place, parcel to parcel and according to proximity of road

and market centers. The average land price in the area is considered for the estimate of

compensation. Landless (tenants), Guthi holders, etc. affected by the project will also be

compensated as per the recommendation of the Compensation Determination Committee.

ii. Rent for Leased Land

Project will acquire 45.21 hector private land for labor camp, muck disposal area, bunker site, and stock piling purpose for 6.5 years. Total amount for this provision is NRs 247,582,140. iii. Compensation for Structure

Private Structures

Compensation will be provided for 712 structures. Compensation cost for structures has been

calculated classifying into two categories i.e. cost for plinth area and story of the structures and

construction cost of the structures.

Table 7-5: Estimated Cost for Structure Loss

S.N. Types of Structures No. of structures Average Cost Total

1 House

Pakki 352

One stroy 91 5000000 455000000

Two stroy 153 7000000 1071000000

Three story or more 108 9000000 972000000

Kachhi 256

One stroy 27

3000000 81000000

Two stroy 194 4000000 776000000

Three story or more 35 5000000 175000000

2 Cowshed

Pakki 13 2000000 26000000

Kachhi 66 1000000 66000000

3 Toilet

Pakki 10 300000 3000000

Kachhi 15 100000 1500000

Total 712

3626500000

Note: Cost of structures based on public consultation.



Public Structures

The field study revealed that 24 different public structures such as schools, temples, church,

drinking water supply system etc that will be inaudnated in the reservoir area of AKSHEP.

Further detail study is required for relocation and resettlement plan of these public structures. A

lum sum amount of NRs 30, 00, 00,000 is grossly proposed for relocation and resettlement cost

of all these public structures. Total compensation cost for private and public structures is NRs.

3,92,65,00,000.

7.3.1.2 Compensation for Loss of Standing Crops

i. Production Loss in Permanent Land

The total compensation of the project affected HHs for production loss of 583.9 MT is estimated

to be NRs.26,828,500. The value of total loss of crops is estimated based on their yield,

production, and local market rate. The crop wise value with area is shown in the table given

below.

Table 7-6: Annual Loss of Agricultural Production of Surveyed HHs

S.N. Crop types Actual

production area loss (ha)

Production Loss (MT)


Total

1 Rice 52.5 135.3 2.58 5,068,000

2 Maize 134.1 295.1 2.2 13,158,000

3 Wheat 22.8 36.6 1.6 1,525,500

4 Potato 15.6 67.2 4.33 1,797,000

5 Lentils 35.7 49.7 1.4 5,280,000

Total 583.9 26,828,500

iii. Production Loss from Temporary Acquisition of Land

The total loss of cereal crops produced in the temporary land during the construction period is

estimated as 75.78 MT which value is estimated to be NRs. 1,517,550 for one year. The crop

wise area allocation, production and value is shown in the following table.

Table 7-7: Value of total loss of Agriculture Production due to Land Utilization



Productivity (MT/ha) Total

1 Rice 8.0436 20.75 2.58 430,665.8

2 Maize 5.3624 11.80 2.2 139,175.8

3 Wheat 5.3624 8.58 1.6 73,613.65

4 Potato 6.703 29.02 4.33 842,392

5 Lentils 4.0218 5.63 1.4 31,702.76

Total 75.78 1,517,550

Source: Field and Market and Survey, 2019

7.3.1.3 Compensation of Private Trees

The trees removed from the private land (2, 21,411 trees) will be compensated as per prevailing

rates. Due consultation will be made with the concerned DFO and stakeholders while

determining the rate. A lum sum amount of NRs 80, 00, 00,000 grossly proposed for the

compensation of private tree. The project will develop training programs to the project area

farmers to enhance their knowledge and skills in improved farming techniques and livestock

rearing in collaboration with the government line agencies.



7.3.1.4 Livelihood Restoration for PAF/SPAF

The fate of SPAFs after the land acquisition by the project will be seriously taken by the project

as per the Resettlement Policy, 2071. To increase the livelihood status of the PAFs and SPAFs

following measures will be applied:

⮚ All the private land loss will be compensated at the current market price. Negotiation and

mutual understanding method will be applied while compensating these lands.

⮚ Production potential of the temporarily taken land will be compensated.

⮚ First priority of employment opportunity will be given to the PAFs and SPAFs.

⮚ Employment opportunity during the operation phase will be prioritized to PAFs and SPAFs.

⮚ Skill training and income generating training to PAFs and SPAFs or their family member will

be prioritized so that they can earn extra income from the new skill. The skill training will be

made under the environmental enhancement program.

7.3.1.5 Pressure on existing Facilities, Services and Resources of the Project Area

Following are the mitigating measures to reduce the impact

⮚ The project will support the existing educational institution in the project area to provide

education to the project workers and staffs.

⮚ The project will support existing health institution in the project area to upgrade its capacity

⮚ The project will establish Project Health Unit (PHU) within the premise of the project for its

staff and construction worker. Such unit will also provide free service to the locals. The

project will employ a health assistant and an ANM in the PHU for the treatment.

⮚ The project will establish a self-standing water supply system for the project camp facilities

without impinging upon the community supply system

⮚ The project will establish self-standing communication facilities for the project staff and

workers in project camp.

⮚ The project will request CDO of the district to establish a new Police Post or strengthen the

existing post of the area to ensure law and order in the local area and financially support to

such posts.

7.3.1.6 Occupational Hazards and Safety

Following are the mitigating measures to reduce the impact

⮚ The project will establish a Project Health Unit (PHU) within the premise of the project for its

staff and construction worker. Such unit will also provide free service to the locals. The

project will employ a health assistant and an ANM in PHU for the treatment needy people.

There will be provision of medical stocks and other support facilities in the PHU of the camp

to stabilize the conditions of injured prior to shifting to nearby hospital (Butwal/Bhairahawa

/Pokhara/Kathmandu). An ambulance will be provisioned standby at the PHU for the service

of injured and needy people.

⮚ The project will make the contractor to prepare health and safety plan for the project workers

approve it and monitor its implementation by the Contractor.

⮚ First aid facility in each construction sites will be provisioned with instructions of use.

⮚ Emergency fire-fighting systems will be provisioned in the camps and the construction

areas.

⮚ Personnel protective equipment such as helmets, gloves, boots, mask, ear plugs, safety

belts etc. as to the requirement of the construction work nature to each of the construction

workers and supervisors will be provided. Workers without required PPEs will not be allowed

to enter in to the construction site.

⮚ Adequate lighting will be installed and ventilation arrangements will be made inside tunnel to make environment conducive to comfortable working requirement.



⮚ Appropriate time gap will be maintained between blasting and working inside the tunnel. The provision will be mentioned in the construction contract document.

⮚ The project will make the Contractor to organize regular safety instruction and safety drills

prior to, during and after the working hours in a routinely manner.

7.3.1.7 Loss of House, Settlements, Social Infrastructures

⮚ The houses, which are to be displaced, will be compensated by the project.

⮚ The project will establish Integrated Re-settlement Area (IRA) in appropriate places with all

physical facilities for the displaced HHs. In such settlement, there will be one

hospital/health post, school for children. The settlement will be electrified and there will be

proper management of drinking water supply, drainage management, waste management.

⮚ The exact location of the integrated community will be finalized by the project before the

construction work with close consultation with the affected people and local body. However,

the local people has suggested some places for IRA during EIA phase.

⮚ Those HHs which are wishes to go for integrated resettlement will be duly compensated.

⮚ The project will construct suspension trail bridges and motorable bridges fo accessibility in

the project affected settlements surrounding the reservoir area.

⮚ The project will also support to the nearest settlement for the construction of public taps

and other social infrastructures as a part of Community Support Program (CSP).

7.3.1.8 Damage to nearby house/structures and life due to seismic vibration created

during blasting

AKSHEP will take following preventive and corrective measures in order to minimize the impact:

⮚ Highly experienced blasting experts will be employed in estimating optimum quantity of

explosive in terms of work progress and possible damage.

⮚ Pre-splitting technology which will not only help to reduce the possible damage to the

structures but also to reduce over breakage in tunnel will be applied as far as possible.

⮚ In case of occurrence of damage, project will make arrangement to pay adequate

compensation based on damage actually occurred. Compensation amount in cash or kind

will be decided in consultation with concerned party, local community, government agency,

NGOs, if any. The project will arrange third party insurance to cover the risks due to

blasting activity.

7.3.1.9 Impact on local infrastructures, people's movement and transportation pattern

To minimize the impact due to increased project activities on local infrastructures and people's

movement, the project will take following preventive and corrective measures.

⮚ Use of heavy transportation vehicles in and around the project area will be optimized so

that the impact is minimum.

⮚ Water will be sprinkled over the roads in and around the project area especially nearby

settlement areas so that the affect due to dust is minimized.

⮚ Damaged roads and suspension bridges due to the use for project activities will be repaired

and maintained.

⮚ Orientation programs will be conducted to drivers so that the hazard of accident will be

minimized.

⮚ The temporary roads will be reformed to make it suitable for appropriate use after

completion of the project.



⮚ Vulnerable locations to accidents will be identified and protection indicators will be

established.

⮚ In case of occurrence of accidental events, it will be handled as per legal provisions.

⮚ Third party insurance will be provided against project related accidents.

7.3.1.10 Degradation of Agricultural Land

Project will take following compensatory/corrective actions to minimize the impact on agricultural

land;

⮚ Land that will be required permanently for construction will be acquired by the project

according to Land Acquisition Act, 2034. The agricultural production, their valuation and

dependency will be considered during valuation of such lands by the compensation

determination committee (CDC).

⮚ Construction works will be carried out in such a way that disturbance to nearby agricultural

land is minimum.

⮚ The top soil will be preserved and stored at the appropriate place of construction camp

area before any major excavation. The stored soil will be spread uniformly to restore

temporarily acquired agricultural land before returning to the respective land owners.

7.3.1.11 Gender and Vulnerable Group

The project is committed to accept by the prevalent law of Nepal and international agreements

and conventions to which Nepal is a party. The project shall take the following preventive

measures to minimize the impact on the gender and vulnerable groups.

⮚ The project will comply with the existing legal framework and prevalent acts and rules

regarding employing workforce, especially women, children, and disadvantaged group and

accept by the provisions.

⮚ The female members, members of indigenous and vulnerable groups among the directly

impacted HHs will be given priority in the skill training, other enhancement programs and

the project related employment opportunities during construction and operation phase.

⮚ Gender balance job opportunity and wages will be ensured to workforce employed by the

project or contractors.

⮚ Arrangements will be made to prohibit employing of children less than 16 years of age by

contractors and other agency employed by AKSHEP through appropriate contractual

condition.

⮚ “Code of Conduct” will be designed and implemented to the workforce for not involving in

illegal sex.

⮚ For gender sensitive grievance redress mechanism, at least one professional, female

confidants will be made available by the project, for women to go to in case of (sexual)

harassment.

7.3.1.12 Transmission of Communicable Diseases

Following mitigation and preventive actions will be taken to minimize the impacts;

❖ Regular health checkup will be conducted for the presence of any communicable diseases

to all of the staffs at construction sites.

❖ If anyone found contaminated with such virus will be sent out from the project area for

treatment.

❖ Prohibiting all the outside labors to live outside construction camps.



❖ Prohibiting the use of alcohol in the project site, camp and nearby villages by putting

penalty to the project workers.

❖ Gambling in the project area premises will be strictly prohibited.

❖ Minor communicable diseases (like common cold) will be treated in site. A health care unit

will be set up in construction camps located at powerhouse area and dam area for the

purpose.

❖ “Code of Conduct”, will be developed containing list of codes to be followed by workforce

and employees of AKSHEP to ensure proper sanitary and hygienic condition.

❖ Orientation program will be conducted on a periodic basis to educate the code of conduct

and to make it mandatory.

❖ Social awareness will be organized in DIA and IIA to aware the local people and the project

staffs on healthy habits.

7.3.1.13 Probable Impact on Child Labor and Accidental Risk and Educational Pattern

Following preventive measures will be taken by the project to minimize the impacts:

❖ Prohibition arrangements will be made to employ children less than 16 years of age by

contractors and other agency employed by project through appropriate contractual

condition.

❖ Awareness programs will be conducted regularly to the parents not to employ their children

in project works.

❖ As far as possible, the blasting activities will be conducted only after the school hours.

❖ Vulnerable locations to accidents will be identified and protection indicators will be

established.

❖ Orientation programs will be conducted to students, teachers and workers so that the

hazard of accident will be minimized.

❖ All construction workers and staffs will be covered with accident insurance.

❖ Provision for third party insurance will be made for any unforeseen accidental events to

local people including children.

7.3.1.14 Impact on Social, Cultural and Religious Practices and Norms/Values

In order to mitigate the possible conflict and unrest situation due to impact created by the

presence of workers, the project will take following preventive action:

❖ Social awareness program targeting the local communities and orientation program

targeting the workforce will be regularly conducted regarding social cultural and religious

practices and strong code of conduct will be prepared for the workforce.

❖ Workers will be instructed to act in responsible manners during and after the working hours,

respecting the rights, property and practices of the local people.

❖ Priority will be given to the local people in project works.

❖ Contractors and outside workforce will be instructed to honor local culture/tradition/belief

and behave decently with local people;

❖ The project proponent will demonstrate its concerns about health and safety of the workers

as well as the community through awareness programmes and grievance redressed.

❖ The workers will be briefed about the health risk of communicable diseases due to

unhygienic environment as well as sexually transmitted diseases.



7.3.1.15 Religious, Historical and Archeological sites

The project will support for the preservation, improvement and renovation of the cultural and

religious sites existinig within the project affected areas. The affected temples will be relocated

in suitable locatioins consulting with local communities.

7.3.1.16 Impact on Local people due to increase in economic activities

❖ Maximum job opportunities will be provided to the local people in prudential order and

assistance to local communities into the planning to increase their income level through

coordination with district level and local government office of the respective district.

❖ Alcohol consumption in the public places outside the camp areas will be restricted.

❖ Social welfare activities will be carried out by the project, which will include 'social

awareness program' to inspire local community to remain far from social evils.

7.3.1.17 Law and Order

Law and order institution with the available human resources might find difficulty in maintaining

the security situation in and around the project area. So, to make the project area safe from the

incidents of crime, quarrels and stealing, following corrective actions regarding law and order

situation has been proposed:

❖ Regular ethical behavioral programs to outside workers before work session to respect

local people, their culture/tradition/belief will be organized.

❖ Alcohol consumption in the public places outside the camp areas will be restricted.

❖ District Police Office will be requested to increase the police personnel to enhance the local

law and order. Financial assistance to the local police post will be provided for the

construction of additional residential facilities.

❖ Coordination will be maintain with the local and district level administrative units of GoN.

The existing facilities of GoN will be used to maintain the law and order in the project area

as required. The proposed awareness program will also minimized this impact to some

extent.

❖ In-house security arrangement including security personnel and equipment will be

established.

7.3.1.18 Aesthetic value

Project will take following corrective measures to minimize the impact:

❖ The project facilities such as structures, cables, construction materials, equipments, lights,

moorings or barges will not be placed haphazardly. When not in use they will be stored in

the ware house located in the construction camp.

❖ The construction equipment, generator, vehicles, batching plants and crusher plant will be

kept in good working condition through scheduled maintenance. The operating condition of

these equipment will be checked on a regular basis.

❖ The muck-disposed area will be shaped and landscaped to give attractive aesthetics and to

harmonize with the surrounding area by planting trees of indigenous species and other

bioengineering works.

7.3.1.19 Resettlement and Rehabilitation Plan (RRP)

An overview of the GoN policies on resettlement indicates land-for-land compensation, with the

additional monetary compensation for the loss of assets and livelihoods, as the most preferred

policy. However, review of the i) availability of land under government ownership both onsite

and offsite the AKSHEP, and ii) availability of sizable land from willing sellers both onsite and



offsite of AKSHEP, reveals insufficient land is available for the land based resettlement of

affected HHs. From the field observation, it was observed that the SPAFs don’t want to resettle

voluntarily.

The reasons behind unwillingness for resettlement are adaptation problem in new society and

traditional and cultural attachment to the existing place. During the HH survey, the SPAFs were

asked about their preferences for: i) relocation to new resettlement sites or ii) compensation of

the lost assets at market price. Majority of HHs would prefer housing land with the

compensation in new resettlement sites.

a. Relocation of Houses

The physically displaced HHs due to project activities (reservoir, dam, powerhouse, access road

area) will be relocated in groups in an integrated settlement (IS) as these HHs do not have any

other residential houses. These HHs are categorized as SPAFs. The relocated HHs will be

supported by a range of rehabilitation packages including Livelihood Restoration Training (LRT).

The IS will be developed with all other infrastructure support facilities such as road, water supply,

drainage management, electricity, communication, educational institutions, health care facilities,

community hall, etc.

The relocated sites will be finalized before the construction work starts with close consultation

with affected HHs and representative of local bodies. As these new sites for relocation of the

physically displaced people are not specifically identified at the site at this stage of the study, the

impacts caused by these sites to the specific households is yet to be identified.

b. Applicable Policy and Legislation

Land Acquisition Act, 2034 is the main legislative system for land and other physical asset

acquisition. The procedure defined in the Act will be followed for the acquisition. Compensation

Fixation Committee (CFC) to be chaired by Chief District Officer (CDO) of the concern district

will determine the compensation rates of each unit at replacement cost. Project proponent is the

responsible for the implementation of RRP.

c. Entitlement Framework

The entitlement framework accordingly specifies compensation and /or rehabilitation measures

for two units of entitlement individuals including affected individuals and their households, and

groups. Loss of private assets will be valued and compensated based on the entitlement policy

matrix.

d. Government Property

Government infrastructures and facilities affected by the project will be repaired or replaced in

consultation with the relevant department authorities. Government forest land will be acquired

by getting approval from MoFE. In this context, acquisition of government infrastructure is not

applicable for this project. However, project will acquire government land (public land/forest land

including community forest land).

Table 7-8: Mitigation and Rehabilitation Cost

S.N. Mitigation Measures Unit Quantity Amount (NRs)

1 Land requirement cost ha 780.303 11,55,12,68,220

2 Rented Land cost Ha 45.21 24,75,82,140

3 Compensation for Private structures Number 712 3,62,65,00,000

4 Compensation of Public structures Number 24 30,00,00,000

5 Compensation for Permanent crop loss MT 583.9 2,68,28,500

6 Compensation for Temporary crop loss MT 75.78 15,17,550

7 Compensation of Private tree Number 221411 80,00,00,000

Total 16,55,36,96,410




7.3.2.1 Decrease in agriculture production due to structural location of the project

components

The top soil preserved and stored at the appropriate place of construction camp area will be

spread uniformly to the restored temporarily acquired agricultural land before returning. During

operation of the project, the maintenance works will be carried out in such a way that

disturbance to nearby agricultural land is minimum.

The members of the PAFs, whose agricultural land will be acquired by the project, will be

provided with agriculture enhancement training on poultry and livestock raising, fresh vegetable

farming, fish farming as to compensate the loss of agriculture production. Such training program

will be given to affected local farmer for one time only. The higher priority will be given to the

women of disadvantage groups. Further new skill training as environmental enhancement

program will be launched so that PAFs and SPAFs can switch their occupation.

7.3.2.2 Sudden Release of Water Downstream of Powerhouse and Dam

Solution to the impact is classified into two situations – planned release and sudden release of

water to natural Kaligandaki River course. For planned release, schedule of release is exactly

known before but since sudden release will take place due to some technical difficulties, it may

occur at any time. AKSHEP will take following corrective action to address the possible impact:

Planned Release

The project will notify the concerned communities about the plan of release through written

notices, mouth to mouth information, awareness program and all other possible means

identified later. Besides, the project will install alarm-warning system (siren) at appropriate

location so that alarm sound is circulated to all concerned. Warning signal (siren) will be made

at least three times (before 1 hour, 30 minutes and 15 minutes) before water is released from

the dam by the project staff. Local people will be given awareness training to safeguard their

livestock from the flood plain area after the siren is blown.

Sudden Release

AKSHEP will install alarm system so that in case of sudden shut down of powerhouse or tunnel,

the system will automatically ring loudly for at least 5 minutes. The released water will take

some time to travel downwards during which people nearby riverbank will have sufficient time to

move to safety.

7.3.2.3 Possible impact on people's behavior and local economy due to decrease

economic activities

Upon the completion of the project, most of the skilled labor will lose job and there will be

slowdown in economic activity which is expected to bring in frustration to local people who have

benefiting. The project will take following preventive measures to minimize the impact and for

smooth transition from construction phase to operation phase;

❖ The project will try to appoint maximum number of local people as far as possible during

the operation period.

❖ The project will run counseling programs to tell the workers about the availability of

works in similar projects running elsewhere in Nepal demanding the skills they acquired

from the Project.



❖ The local farmers, business people and traders will be made aware of the income

generating activities that could be operated by the availability of the electricity in their

area.

❖ In addition, skill training program as an Environmental Enhancement Program will be

carried out so that people can switch their occupation easily based on their skill and local

availability of resources.

7.3.2.4 Possible Impact on Gender and Children

Since no significant impact on women, children, and other vulnerable group is expected during

the operational phase, no mitigation measure is required.

7.3.2.5 Occupational Health Hazards

To safeguard the potential occupational health and safety risks following preventive and

corrective have been suggested during operation period.

❖ The contractor of AKSHEP has a designated administrative control unit within its

organization structure to formulate health and safety polices, health and safety training

to employee, health and safety inspection system, health and safety plans etc are

required for the avoidance of the health and safety related hazards in the working

environment.

❖ The contractor of AKSHEP has provides OHS training to all construction workers

relating to perceived OHS risk/hazard at the work sites,basic site rules the at work sites

for self protection against the perceived hazards,use of different personal protective

equipment to safeguard from different hazard types,use of first aid and emergency

procedures for safety and evacuation etc.

❖ The contractor of AKSHEP has established and maintained appropriate equipped first

aid station to all the construction site which shall have adequate supply of first aid

medicines, adequate washing facility equiped with gloves, gowns and masks for

protection against direct contract with blood and other body fluids and health stabilization

facility.

❖ The contractor of AKSHEP has established and maintance fire fighting equipment in all

construction and camp site

❖ Workers health will be checked periodically on the status of their health.

❖ Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as safety helmet and glass, safety boot, ear

plugs, good electric light system, good earthling devices, fire-fighting accessories,

caution signals, safety belt and other safety equipment as required at particular site and

working area will be provided. Personal protective equipment for eye and face

protection, head protection, hearing protection, foot protection, hand protection,

respiratory protection, body and leg protection etc.

❖ Provision of field hospital and ambulance.

❖ Supervision and monitoring of the occupational safeguard practice at work sites

❖ The contractor of AKSHEP has prepare a plan to handle emergency situation in case of

accidence or major construction risk.

7.3.2.6 Impact on Water use Right and Conflict

Nearby settlements of Andhikhola are dependent on the river for irrigation, fisharies and other

domestic uses of water. AKWUA is one of the major water users dependent on the river. So, the

future development work on andhokhola need to ensure the continuous water supply for that



irrigation scheme. Therefore, the project will continuously supply water to the AKWUA. In

addition, drinking water supply in the region impacted by the project will be restored.

7.3.2.7 Impact on Cheap Electricity provided by BPC

BPC was providing cheaper electricity tarrif comperation to the NEA at present. As per the

power purchase agreement (PPA) between NEA and BPC, if NEA constructs Andhikhola

Storage HEP, BPC will not get any kind of compensation for the inundation of headwork

structure of existing Andhikhola HEP and other loss related to energy and revenue. However, if

BPC wise to continue to operate existing hydropower, it can modify or relocate the intake site

with its own cost without any additional cost to the NEA. Thus, there exist two case scenario for

BPC; first, continue to operate existing HEP with modification of intake in this case existing

system is continuous in operation .Therefore there is no any question to revise electricity tariff

provided by BPC .In second case if terminate to operate existing HEP,electricity tarrief will be

revised as per the power purchase agreement (PPA) between NEA and AKSHEP .

7.3.3 Enhancement Measures

7.3.3.1 Agriculture Intensification program

AKSHEP will itself provide the local communities and the region with numerous opportunities for

socio-economic development. The proposed project will affect the cultivated land in reservoir

and other project components. Livelihood of the majority of the affected people based on small

business and farming. After the project execution, they will lose their main source of income.

To restore the livelihood of the affected people, improved techniques and methods will be

introduced. Training program on agriculture intensification will be conducted for the local

affected farmers, which will provide opportunities for increasing agricultural production in their

farmlands. This program is especially focused for those HHs who lose their land 10-25% in the

assumption that they can improve production and productivity by applying new methods and

techniques. The proposed training programs are: fruits cultivation, use of organic fertilizer;

irrigation techniques; appropriate cropping patterns; and methods of harvesting, processing and

storage. Such training programs will be conducted in coordination with concerned RMs and

municipalities. The total cost allocated for training programs regarding agriculture is NRs

11,587,500 (including cost for trainee’s allowance, expert hiring, training materials, logistic

support, etc.).

Table 7-9: Cost for Agriculture Intensification Training

S. N. Particulars No. of

persons No. of days

Unit cost (daily allowance)

Total Cost (NRs)

1 Training Coordinator 1 7 5000 35,000

2 Local Farmers /participants 30 7 1000 210,000

3 Agronomist/Horticulturist /trainer 5 7 2500 87,500

4 Distribution of seed/ improved materials

- 220,000

5 Training Materials and Logistics - 220,000

Total Cost for One Training 772,500

Total Cost for 15 Training 11,587,500

7.3.3.2 Horticulture Intensification Training

To increase fruit species production in the area, improved techniques and methods need to be

introduced. Training program on improved farming will be conducted for the local farmers, which

will provide opportunities for increasing agricultural production in their farmlands. This program

is especially focused for those households who lose their land more than 10% in the assumption

that they can improve production and productivity by applying new methods and techniques.

The total cost allocated for training programs in two places regarding vegetable and citrus is



NRs 3,090,000 (including cost for trainee’s allowance, expert hiring, training materials and

logistics.

● Choice of better seeds.

● Integrated pest management.

● Use of fertilizers.

● Irrigation techniques.

● Method of harvesting, processing and storage.

Table 7-10: Cost of Horticulture Training

S. N. Particular No. of

person No. of days


Total Cost (NRs)

1 Training Coordinator 1 7 5000 35,000

2 Local Farmers /participants 30 7 1000 210,000

3 Training Experts 5 7 2500 87,500

4 Assistance LS 220,000

5 Training Materials and Logistics LS 220,000

Cost for One Training 772,500

Cost for four Training 3,090,000

7.3.3.3 Livestock Training Program

Animal husbandry is mainstay and it plays significant role in cash income generation for the

people of the project affected area. A training program on improved livestock will be conducted

for the local farmers 10%, which will provide opportunities for increasing production. This

program is especially focused for those HHs who lose their assets in the assumption that they

can improve livestock production by applying new methods and techniques. In the same way,

poultry farming will also be conducted in the project affected area as project area. The total cost

allocated for training programs regarding livestock and poultry is NRs 9,850,000 including cost

for trainee’s allowance, expert hiring, training materials, logistic support, etc.).

Table 7-11: Cost of Livestock and Poultry Training

S.N. Particulars No. of

persons No. of days

Unit cost (daily allowance) NRs

Total Cost (NRs)

A. Livestock Training (Goat/Sheep)

A.1 Training Coordinator 1 7 5000 35,000

A.2 Allowance including Lunch 20 7 1000 140,000

A.3 Training Experts 3 7 2500 52,500

A.4 Livestock assistance LS 350,000

A.5 Training material and Logistics LS 180,000

Sub-total (A) for one training 757,500

Sub-total (A) for 4 training 3,030,000

B. Livestock

B.1 Training Coordinator 1 7 5000 35,000

B.2 Allowance including Lunch 20 7 1000 140,000

B.3 Training Expert 3 7 2500 52,500

B.4 Livestock Assistance LS 450,000

B.5 Training Material and Logistics LS 175,000

Sub-total (B) 852,500

Sub-total (B) for 4 training 3,410,000

C. Poultry

C.1 Training Coordinator 1 7 5000 35,000

C.2 Allowance including Lunch 20 7 1000 140,000

C.3 Training Expert 3 7 2500 52,500

C.4 Poultry Assistance LS 450,000

C.5 Training Material and Logistics LS 175,000

Sub-total (C) for One training 852,500

Sub-total (C) for 4 training 3,410,000

Grand Total (A+B+C) 98,50,000



7.3.3.4 Social Awareness Program

Awareness programs will be conducted in the project area to alert local people to the potential

dangers related to health, sanitation and safety. The sanitation condition of the project area is

unsatisfactory. Wash program will be carried out for those vulnerable people who are deprived

from basic sanitation facilities to increase awareness and management of waste. It is envisaged

that the influx of construction crew will increase the pressure on the existing health facilities of

the area. The project proponent will be responsible for providing mobile health and sanitation

facilities to its work force and this will ease the pressure on the existing facilities.

In addition, awareness program on construction related safety issues will also be conducted for

the labor. A joint program on health and sanitation can be launched in association with the

existing NGOs of the project area and other local communities during the construction phase.

During the program project description, impact due to the project and benefit sharing

mechanism will be shared with the participants. The AKSHEP shall allocate NRs. 8,000,000 for

30 social awareness program and placement of hoarding board. The social Awareness program

will be carried mainly in the following sectors

● Gender inclusion and social Inclusion

● WASH Program

● Occupational Health and safety

7.3.3.5 Micro Enterprise Creation Training

Micro Enterprise Creation Training program will be provided especially to the SPAFs and

vulnerable people of PAFs. The main objectives of training are:

● To motivate the SPAFs/Vulnerable group of PAF start their own business

● To develop entrepreneurship competency

● To identify and select viable business of their own

● To help for preparation of their own business plan

Table 7-12: Cost of Micro Enterprise Training

S.N. Particular No. of person No. of days


Total Cost (NRs)

A. Apple Processing

A.1 Program Coordinator 1 5 5000 25,000

A.2 Allowance including Lunch 20 5 1000 100,000

A.3 Training Expert 4 classes per day (per class=2500)

5 2500 50,000

A.4 Training materials and logistics LS 180,000

A.5 Assistance 180,000

Sub-total A for One Training 535,000

Sub-total A for 4 Training 2,140,000

B. Fishery and boating

B.1 Program Coordinator 1 7 5000 35,000

B.2 Allowance including Lunch 20 7 1000 140,000

B.3 Training Expert 4 classes per day (per class=2500)

7 2500 70,000

B.4 Training materials and logistics LS 180,000

B.5 Assistance 750,000

B.6 Field visit 275,000

Sub-total B for One Training 1,450,000

Sub-total B for 8 Training 11,600,000

C. Handicrafts

C.1 Program Coordinator 1 7 5000 35,000

C.2 Allowance including Lunch 20 7 1000 140,000

C.3 Training Expert 4 classes per day (per class=2500)

7 2500 70,000

C.4 Training materials and logistics LS 18,0000

C.5 Assistance 350,000

Sub-total C for One Training 775,000

Sub-total C for 8 Training 6,200,000

Grand Total (A+B+C) 19,940,000



7.3.3.6 Skill Development Training

Skill development training will be provided by the project to give some benefit from the project to

the affected people (PAFs/SPAFs). This training will enable the inhabitants in getting suitable

jobs. Skills training will be provided by a number of training service providers. The trainings will

be Council for Technical Education and Vocational Training (CTVET)-endorsed Level-1 training

courses which includes 390 hours of training over 90 days. Depending on community interests,

a wide variety of types of training can be offered. Post-training support is critical to ensure that

training leads to employment. Skill training providers will guide trainees for job placement and

employment opportunity after the successful completion of training. The total estimated cost for

such training programs is NR 23,55,00,000 (including cost for trainee’s allowance, expert,

training materials, logistic support, etc.).

Andhi Khola Storage HEP (828MW) Mitigation and Enhancement Measures


Table 7-13: Proposed Skill Development Training

S.

N.

Name of

Training Basic Contents

Duration Cost for 1

Person/per

month

No. of

Trainees

Total Cost

(NRs) Hour Month

1 Mason Health and safety measures, Basic knowledge of masonry, knowledge of

cement and plaster, Stone Masonry, Stone Masonry, foundation, Bamboo

& Wooden Plank,

390 3 50000 300 45000000

2 Electrical/ House

Wiring

Basic knowledge of electricity, health and safety, instruments, drawing,

wiring, earthling, maintenance, communication, entrepreneurship 390 3 50000 100 15000000

3 Carpenter

Introduction to wood work; bench work related to carpentry; perform

members erection in horizontal and vertical alignment; erect formwork for

different foundations; formwork erection for column, beam and slab in

separately and combinable situation; apply simple mathematical

techniques; occupational health and safety measures

390 3 50000 100 15000000

4 Light Vehicle

Driving

Understanding the vehicle, function of parts and its controls, Basic driving

skills: road signs, signal lights, and road markings, Rules of the road:

speed limits, railroad crossings, and laws on texting and cell phone use.

Sharing the road with pedestrians, bicyclists, commercial vehicles,

motorcyclists, and wildlife

390 3 50000 300 45000000

5 Heavy

Equipment

Introduction of Excavator, safety measure, daily monitoring of machine,

Start Engine and Test Machine Functions, Perform Excavator Operation,

Transport, Maintenance, management, communication & managerial skill,

entrepreneurship skill,

390 3 70000 50 10500000

6 Tailoring

Introduction and identification of measurements, tools and equipment,

safety and precautions, Installation of tailoring machine, measurement,

design, cutting, weaving, finishing, account, management,

communication, entrepreneurship development

390 3 50000 200 30000000

7 Vehicle repairing

and maintenance Vehicle service and maintenance 390 3 50000 100 15000000

8 Hospitality

Management

Training

Equipment, tools and security, Personal Hygiene, workspace cleanliness

and food security, Preparation, Continental cuisine, 390 3 50000 100 15000000

9 Other Training will be proposed as of local interest 390 3 50000 300 45000000

Total 235,500,000

Andhikhola Storage HEP (180 MW) Mitigation and Enhancement Measures


7.4 Summary of Enhancement Measures The total enhancement cost for socio-economic and cultural environment is NRs 28,79,67,500.

Table 7-14: Summary of Enhancement Measure Cost

S. N. Description Amount (NRs) Remarks

1 Agriculture intensification training 11587500

2 Horticulture Training 3090000

3 Livestock and poultry 9850000

4 Social Awareness Program 8000000

5 Microenterprise Training 19940000

6 Skill Development Training 235500000

Total 287967500

7.5 Community Support Program (CSP) As per the Concept Paper and Work Plan for National Energy Crisis Alleviation and Electricity

Development Decade, 2015 (/fli6«o pmhf{ ;+s6 lgjf/0f tyf ljB't ljsf;sf nflu cjwf/0ff kq

tyfsfo{of]hgf, @)&@), 0.50% (NRs. 30 crores) of the total project cost has been allocated for

Community Support Program (CSP). The project has suggested the following sectors for the

optimum utilization of CSP cost for overall community development of the project area:

a. Education Support Program

The project suggests providing financial support to local education sector. Support shall be

provided to those schools which are located near to the project construction sites. Support shall

be provided for the establishment of library, widening of playground, educational materials

including sports, and other physical facilities (separate toilet establishment for boys and girls,

drinking water facility). Scholarship provision to the brilliant students shall also be included in the

support. Instead, the project should also establish a new school with all physical facilities in the

relocated area where the displaced people from the reservoir area will be resettled. The project

will play a positive role for establishing betterment of education in the area. The project will

coordinate with related line agencies for their support.

b. Health Sector Support Program

Physical facility of existing health posts located in the project affected wards are poor in terms of

infrastructure and service delivery. There is a need of strengthening existing physical facilities.

Hence, the project suggests to provide financial support for strengthening the existing health

posts of the project affected wards. The project will provide financial support for health

campaign, health equipment and other support.

c. Drinking Water Support Program

The project will provide financial support for strengthening the community-level water supply

facilities in each project affected Wards which already exist in the settlements of the project

affected area. The mobilization and selection of project to be contributed will be carried out with

the consultation of local body during the support time.

d. Irrigation System Support Program

The project will provide support for strengthening the community-level irrigation facilities in

project affected area.

Andhikhola Storage HEP (180 MW) Mitigation and Enhancement Measures


e. Support to Cultural and Religious Sites

The project will support in the preservation, improvement and renovation of the cultural and

religious sites lying nearby the project affected area.

g. Support to local community based organizations

The project will also support various local community organizations that are working on project

affected area. This will help in strengthening the capacity of local organizations.

h. Assistance to the existing road improvement within the project wards

The project will support for alignment survey of the rural roads, preliminary design and cost

estimations of the existing road.

7.6 Summary of Environmental Mitigation, Enhancement & CSP Cost The total environmental mitigation (including land compensation cost), enhancement and CSP

cost is NRs 17,50,52,42,283 which is 31.00 percent of total project estimated cost.

.

Table 7-15: Summary of Environmental Mitigation, Enhancement and CSP Cost

S. N. Environment Description Amount (NRs) Remarks

1 Physical Mitigation 26,00,00,000 Table 7-1

1 Biological Mitigation and Enhancement 103,578,373 Table 7-3

2 Social

Mitigation 16,55,36,96,410 Table 7-8

Enhancement 28,79,67,500 Table 7-19

CSP 30,00,00,000

Total including land cost 17,505,242,283

Total Project Cost (NRs) USD 498.496 Million

% of Environmental mitigation, enhancement and

CSP cost including land cost 31.83%

Andhikhola Storage HEP (180MW) Review of Policies and Legal Provision


8 REVIEW OF POLICIES AND LEGAL PROVISION

8.1 Introduction Nepal integrated environmental aspects in all its development activities and projects only from

early 1980s. Environment conservation was included in the policies since the Fifth Plan (1975-

1980). The second milestone was taken during the Sixth Plan. The Sixth Plan under the

environment and land use policy emphasized the integration of environmental aspects into the

construction of large-scale development projects. Then finally, in the Seventh Plan it was stated

that developmental programs would be implemented only after an approved EIA/ IEE report.

The Eighth, Ninth and Tenth Five Year Plans have further emphasized the making of more

effective EIA systems. The formulation of sectoral Guidelines, promotion of participatory

EIA/IEE system and inclusion of mitigation cost into the total project cost were some of the

activities included in these three five year plans.

The prevailing Acts, Policies, Regulations and Guidelines, which are required for the

construction and operation of hydropower projects in Nepal, have been reviewed as per the

following while preparing the present EIA report. The proponent will abide by any other laws

besides those already mentioned in the documents that are attracted due to different activities

that will be undertaken during project implementation.

8.2 The Constitution of Nepal In the Article 30 of Part 3 of the Constitution of Nepal states about the Right to Clean

Environment: According to this article all citizens shall have the right to live in clean

environment, and in case if there is injury caused from environmental pollution or degradation,

the victim have the right to obtain compensation. In the same way, Article 51(g) explains

Policies relating to Protection, Promotion and use of Natural resources under the Policies of the

State as follows;

• to protect, promote, and make environmental friendly and sustainable use of, natural

resources available in the country, in consonance with national interest and adopting the

concept of intergenerational equity, and make equitable distribution of fruits, according

priority and preferential right to the local communities,

• to make multi-purpose development of water resources, while according priority to

domestic investment based on public participation,

• to ensure reliable supply of energy in an affordable and easy manner, and make proper use

of energy, for the fulfilment of the basic needs of citizens, by generating and developing

renewable energy,

• to develop sustainable and reliable irrigation by making control of water-induced

disasters, and river management,

• to conserve, promote, and make sustainable use of forests, wildlife, birds, vegetation and

bio-diversity, by mitigating possible risks to environment from industrial and physical

development, while raising awareness of general public about environment cleanliness,

• to maintain the forest area in necessary lands for ecological balance,

• to adopt appropriate measures to abolish or mitigate existing or possible adverse

environmental impacts on the nature, environment or biological diversity,

• to pursue the principles of environmentally sustainable development such as the

principles of polluter pays, of precaution in environmental protection and of prior

informed consent,

• to make advance warning, preparedness, rescue, relief and rehabilitation in order to

mitigate risks from natural disasters.



8.3 Plan and Policy

8.4 Nepal Environmental Policy and Action Plan, 2050 and 2055 Nepal Environmental Policy and Action Plan (NEPAP) were endorsed to further institutionalize

environment protection in the development processes. The NEPAP recognize that a growing

number of people are exposed to pollute from industrial enterprises. The NEPAP identifies the

following factors as contributing to this process:

• Industrial plan inappropriately cited close to population centers

• Insufficient emphasis on fuel efficiency

• Little, if any pollution abatement equipment used for reducing emission, and

• A total lack of industry pollution standards

Hence, NEPAP emphasizes the need for mitigating adverse environmental impacts to address

urban and industrial development, air and water pollution and infrastructure development.

8.4.1 Fifteenth Five Year Plan (2076/77-2080/81 BS)

The current fifteenth plan has been introduced at time when Nepal has significantly moved into

federal government system. The new government System is very ambitious, so it is new

economic plan. According to the concept paper and approach paper published in 2075B.S the

fifteenth plan is a game changer plan of the country. It is called a foundation plan for achieving

the long term goal of “prosperous Nepal Happy Nepali”.

National Goal

➢ Build a foundation for upgrading Nepal to a nation with a high income level transforming

into a socialism oriented welfare state with prosperous economy, social justice and

refined lifestyle.

National objective

➢ To build Foundation Of prosperity through construction of easily available, standard and

modern infrastructures generation of productive and respected employment, high

sustainable and inclusive economic growth and poverty alleviation.

➢ To enable citizen to fill dignified and refined lifestyle by maintaining quality health and

education, healthy and balanced environment, social justice and quality as well as

accountable public service and by strengthening federal government system.

➢ To protect the self esteem, independent and national interest of the country through

socio economic transformations and by developing independent national economy.

National Strategies

➢ To make speedy, sustainable and employment oriented economic growth.

➢ To ensure accessible and quality health service and education.

➢ To develop internal and inter regional inter connectivity and sustainable

cities/settlements.

➢ To increase production and productivity.

➢ To provide full scale, sustainable and productive social security and protection.

➢ To develop just and dynamic society.

➢ To protect and mobilize natural resources and develop their regeneration.

➢ To strengthen public service and federal government system.

8.4.2 National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan, 2071

The GoN Nepal implemented Nepal Biodiversity Strategy in 2002 and Nepal Biodiversity

Strategy Implementation Plan in 2006. Useful experience and lessons have been learnt from

the implementation of the strategy and the plan. Moreover, substantial changes have taken

place in the socio-political and environmental contexts of the country over the last decade.

Several new themes and issues have emerged or gained prominence since 2002. In light of



these changes, the then MoFSC has prepared this revised National Biodiversity Strategy and

Action Plan (NBSAP) in 2071 BS. It has been prepared to meet the national needs for

managing biodiversity on a sustainable basis for the benefit of present and future generations,

and also to fulfill the country’s international obligations. The objective of developing the NBSAP

is to provide a strategic planning framework for conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity

and biological resources of Nepal for enhancing local livelihoods and eco-friendly national

development, and equitable sharing of the benefits accrued from utilization of biological

resources among all sections of the society. It has a long-term (i.e. 35 years) vision, and

includes specific short-term (up to 2020) strategies and priorities for action.

8.4.3 Hydropower Development Policy, 2058

The Hydropower Development Policy was promulgated in 2001. The main objectives of the

policy include producing clean energy through the development of hydroelectric projects and to

help conserve the environment. It is stipulated that one of the policies is to extend the use of

electricity for achieving a reduction in the utilization of fuel wood and to render necessary

assistance in the conservation of forest and environment.

8.4.4 National Policy on Land Acquisition, Compensation and Resettlement,

2015

The National Policy on Land Acquisition, Compensation and Resettlement in Development

Projects in Nepal was prepared in September 2006 by the National Planning Commission

(NPC) with ADB assistance. The Policy has the following guiding principles:

• “Appropriate and adequate compensation for the loss of assets or income is a fundamental

right of all project affected persons. Physically displaced people must be relocated with

basic amenities such as school, health posts and other facilities.

• All affected persons should be assisted to restore at least their pre-project income and

livelihood sources.

• The absence of legal title to land should not be a bar for compensation, resettlement and

rehabilitation assistance.

• Vulnerable groups such as Janajati/Adivasi, Dalits, landless, women, especially women-

headed households, differently-abled, poverty groups and senior citizens are entitled to

special benefit and assistance packages in addition to compensation and resettlement.”

8.4.5 National Forest Policy 2075

The National Forest Policy 2075 aims to strengthen the forest resources of Nepal. The main

goal of this policy is to manage the forest resource sustainably, increase productivity of forest

area/sector, increase overall production from forests along with conservation of biodiversity,

conservation of sources, and equal sharing and distribution of environmental services gained

from conservation. The policy also aims at conservation of water, soil on basin level studying

and planning based on catchment level. The Hydropower sector while promoting conservation

at local level shall think and act on the watershed conservation basis. It encourages private

sector for the development and conservation of forest sector. This policy also aims to promote

forest based entrepreneurships, diversification, value addition through marketing, creation and

promotion of green employment. It also aims to reduce and mitigate the adverse impacts of

climate related hazards and enhance climate change adaptation measures and resilience in

Nepal.

8.4.6 Landuse Policy, 2072

Landuse Policy, 2072 is a policy document relating to limits and protection of Land and Land

Resources, optimum use and effective management thereto. Legal and institutional



management for Lands and Land Resources, and protection, use and management thereon are

done under this Policy. This Policy aims to bring about benefits of using Lands and Land

Resources (LLRs) by creating a situation of distributing lands in a just manner. The core base

of this Policy is taken from the underlying spirit and letters of sub-Section (e) (3) titled as:

''Policies relating to Agriculture and Land Reform'' under Article 51 of the Constitution of Nepal,

2015 on Chapter of ''Directive Principles, Policies and Obligations of the State'', where it is

envisaged that land management and commercialization, industrialization, diversification and

modernization of agriculture shall be done by pursuing a Landuse Policy. The objectives of the

Landuse Policy 2072 are following:

• To categorize/classify entire lands of the country into various Land Use Zones;

• To devise of level wise (Federal, Provincial and Local) Land Use Plans;

• To ensure of the use of Land and Land Resources on the basis of land use plans for

protection of agricultural land, hygienic, beautiful, well-facilitated settlement and

sustainable urbanization,

• and for forests areas including natural heritages, biodiversities and historical, cultural

and religious, archaeological and areas of strategic importance;

• To mitigate natural and human created-disastrous hazards;

• To assess and apply minimum property valuation and progressive tax system on lands

on the basis of specific use after getting prepared of plot based records.

8.4.7 National Climate Change Policy, 2076

The major aim of this policy is to direct the way for the in various levels and related sectors to

establish progressive society mitigating the risks related to climate change impacts. The need

for formulation of this new policy after climate change policy, 2067 (2011) change in national as

well as international dimensions, to effectively address change in climate change management

sector, new policy has been formulated according to lessons learnt from implementation of

previous policy. The aim of this policy is to develop climate progressive society and national

socio-economic development.

Policies, stategy and working policy related to this policy are agriculture and food security;

forest, biodiversity and watershed conservation; water resources and energy; rural and urban

settlement; industry, transport and physical infrastructure; tourism, natural and cultural heritage;

health, water supply and sanitation; disaster risk reduction and management; gender equality

and social inclusion, livelihood and good governance; capacity development; research,

technology development and communication; climate fund management.

8.4.8 National Environment Policy, 2076

As environmental conservation is multidimensional and international issue, Nepal has shown

obligation in various international treaties and agreements. This policy has been formulated to

direct the environment related acts, rules and other sectoral laws in relation to achieving

sustainable development balancing the environment and development; to fulfill the international

commitment and co-ordinate and collaborate governmental, non-governmental institute,

community, private sector as well as federal, provincial and local level.

Major objective is pollution control, solid waste management and greenery enhancement in

order to secure the right to live in clean and healthy environment. Policy related to pollution

control encompasses control, abatement and mitigation of all kinds of pollution, use of

environmentally friendly technologies in operation of industries, hospitals and transportation,

regulation of chemicals in products etc. Policy related to environmental mainstreaming include

internalizing environmental aspects in developmental projects. Other related policies are



environmental justice, public participation, sustainable development, research and capacity

development. Similarly, other aspects of this policy include institutional organization, role of

federal, provincial and local level in the implementation of this policy, financial and legal asplect,

monitoring and evaluation.

8.4.9 National Wetland Policy, 2059

In conformity with the commitment made in Ramsar Treaty 1971, government of Nepal has

prepared National Wetland Policy 2059. The goal of the policy is to manage and conserve

wetlandsresources in a sustainable way with local people participation. So, the policy has

objective of people’s participation in the management of wetlands and conserve wetland

biodiversity with wise use of wetland resources. In particular, it has policy relaated to wetland

management based on local participation, wise use of wetland resources, promotion of

awareness, prevention and control on invasive species, prohobition of works in wetland, and

future work regarding wetland conservation and management.

8.5 Acts

8.5.1 Land Acquisition Act, 2034

One of the important acts that have a bearing on the implementation mechanisms and

mitigation of adverse impacts of power projects is the Land Acquisition Act, 2034. This Act

covers all aspects of land acquisition and compensation of land and other assets. It authorizes

the government to acquire land for public purpose by providing compensation to the private

landowners.

The compensation paid under this Act will be given in cash. To decide the amount of the

compensation, the Land Acquisition Act (2034) has made provisions for the constitution of a

CFC. That committee consists of the chief district officer (CDO), Chief of District Land

Administration and Revenue Office, Project Chief or an officer designated by the CDO and the

Representative of the DCC.

The proposed project will acquire land. As per the Act, it is mandatory to acquire land prior to

the implementation of the project. The provisions made in the Act will be applied during

acquisition of land. Private land required for the project will be acquired following the

recommendation the recommendation of CDC while forest land will be acquired by taking

approval from GoN.

8.5.2 Soil and Watershed Conservation Act, 2039

In order to manage watersheds of Nepal, the Soil and Watershed Conservation Act, 1982 was

enacted. The act is devoted to the protection of watersheds. Under Section 10 of this Act,

power is extended to the Watershed Conservation Officer to grant permission to construct

dams, drainage ditches and canals, cut privately owned trees, excavate sand, boulders and

soil, discharge solid waste and establish industry or residential areas within any protected

watersheds. The Act outlines the essential parameters necessary for proper watershed

management.

The Act is relevant to the proposed project as the project will utilize the soil for tower foundation

in different location. There is likely to impact on soil and watershed condition of the project area.

Hence, the project is obliged to follow the Soil and Watershed Conservation Act, 2039 (1982)

during project implementation.

8.5.3 Water Resources Act, 2049

The objectives of the Water Resources Act, 2049 is to make legal arrangements for

determining beneficial uses of water resources, preventing environmental and other hazardous

effects thereof and also for keeping water resources free from pollution. The Act strives to



minimize environmental damage to water bodies, especially lakes and rivers through

environmental impact assessment studies and the proponents who wish to use water resources

for various purposes should prepare EIA report before a license can be granted. The Act

stipulates that soil erosion, flooding, landslides or any significant impact on the environment

should be avoided in all uses of a water resource. The provisions made in Water Resources

Act, 2049 (1992) is mandatory in case of the implementation of the proposed project. As per the

provision, the environmental impact mitigation and enhancement measures have been

proposed in view of environment conservation.

8.5.4 Electricity Act, 2049

Electricity Act, 2049 is related to survey, generation, transmission and distribution of electricity.

Electricity includes electric power generated from water, mineral oil, coal, gas, solar energy,

wind energy, etc. Under Section 3 of the Act, it is stated that survey, generation, transmission

or distribution of electricity without obtaining a license is prohibited. The Electricity Act, 2049

also contain provisions to minimize soil erosion, flood, air pollution and damage on environment

while producing electricity and transmission of the power (Article 24). NEA is responsible for

electricity transmission and distribution.

8.5.5 Forest Act, 2076

The Forest Act, 2076 recognizes the importance of conservation, management and utilization of

wildlife, environment, watershed and biodiversity for national prosperity. According to this act,

ownership of the national forest vested to Government of Nepal and no any national forest land

to be utilize for settlement and resettlement. As per this act, the ministry in consultation with

province ministry can declare some parts of national forest as forest conservation area in those

forest areas which has environmental, ecological, cultural and scientific importance. It

emphasizes the development and implementation of an approved work plan for different

categories of forest, i.e. Community Forests, Leasehold Forests, Private Forests, Collaborative

Forest and Religious Forests.The Act requires decision-makers to take account of all forest

values, including environmental services and bio-diversity.

8.5.6 Local Government Operation Act, 2074

As the Local Self-Governance Act, 2055 (1999) was scrapped after the implementation of new

constitution, this act is enforced by GoN in 2074/06/29 accordingly. This act has paved a strong

legal foundation towards institutionalizing executives, legislative and quasi-judiciary practice of

the newly formed local government. The legal mechanism has been enacted as per the Article

296 (1) of the Constitution of Nepal so as to leverage local leadership and governance system.

It has been introduced by upholding the spirit of local autonomy and full decentralization with

the motive to distribute fruits of democracy in a proportional, inclusive and just manner. The act

has stipulated several arrangements related to authorities, duties and responsibilities of local

government.

8.5.7 Labour Act, 2074

New Labour Act has been passed by the Parliament on August 11, 2017 (Shrawan 27, 2074)

and accorded the assent by the President on Sept. 04, 2017 (2074-05-19). The New Labor Act

is now effective from the date of assent by the President by virtue of Section 3 (f) of the

Interpretation of Statute Act, 1953 (2010). The New Labor Act has repealed the Labor Act 1992

(2048) (the "Previous Act"). The New Labor Act has brought complete change in employment

regime in Nepal.

The Act clearly mentions that the appointment letter should be issued for all the employees

which include their working hours, working time, wages and other benefits. The Act allows for

the time bond contract for the manpower required for development work. The Act specifies that



working hours for the Anabolic and women must be within 6 AM to 6 PM which clearly restrict to

deploy women in night works. The Act also state that equal opportunity shall be given to women

as men. Similarly Working Hours continue to be 8 hours a day and 48 hours a week, overtime

has been increased to 24 hours per week from 20 hours a week. New Labor Act provides that

the minimum remuneration of workers, public and weekly holidays should be as prescribed.

The employer can deduct the expenses incurred in providing food and lodging from

remuneration if such is provided. Domestic workers should be allowed to celebrate festivals as

per their culture, religion, tradition.

Section 4 prohibited to engage in force labour. The New Labor act also prohibits Non-Nepalese

citizen to be engaged at work in any of the posts which is same as per the previous act. The

New Labor Act continues the general terms of hiring of foreign nationals by a local entity that

the foreign nationals can only be hired if the Nepalese citizen could not be available for any

skilled technical post even after publishing an advertisement in the national level public

newspapers and journals. Where 20 or more employees are engaged, employer shall constitute

a Safety and Health Committee as per section 74 of the New Labor Act. There were no such

provisions in the previous act. Where 10 or more employees are engaged in the entity,

employer shall also constitute the Collective Bargaining Committee as per section 116 of the

New Labor Act. The new labor act excludes certain matters from the collective demand and

such matter includes:

• If it is contrary to the constitution of Nepal

• If it is against the interest of others due to being baseless allegation

• If it is prejudicial to the personal conduct of any worker or employee

• If it is unrelated to the entity

• If it is without expiry of the time of the collective bargaining agreement

• If it is about the rate and benefit prescribed for social security

Section 6 prohibits for discrimination on the ground of religion, colour, sex, caste, tribe, origin,

language, ideological conviction or any other similar ground. It also clarified that the following

acts shall not be considered discrimination:

• to give preference to any person for employment on the basis of inherent requirement of a

job or service;

• to engage a female worker who is pregnant, in any work or service which is easier and

suitable to her condition without any reduction in the remuneration and benefits; or

• to give preference to any physically challenged worker in any job responsibility suitable to

his/her physical condition.

8.5.8 Environment Protection Act, 2076

Government of Nepal has enacted this Environment Protection Act in 2076 BS. Section 3 of the

Act requires proponent to conduct Environmental Study: Comprehensive Environmental Study,

Initial Environmental Examination or Environmental Impact Assessment. Section 4 highlights

the detailed need of alternative analysis. Section 5 and 6 relates to scoping and TOR as well as

its quality. Section 8 and 9 highlights the provision related to approval of environmental study

reports and prohibition of implementation of the project without approval of the reports.

Strategic environmental assessment, Environmental Management Plan and Supplementary

Environmental Impact assessment arefocused in section 9-11. In terms of pollution control,

section 15-20 highlights the provisions related to pollution control, import and management of

hazardous chemicals, establishment of laboratory, sample collection, pollution control

certification. Section 21 and 22 is related to provision of Environmental inspector, their rights

and duties. Section 23-28 mainly describes climate change related provisions including



information dissipation, adaptation plans, mitigation works, climate change risks management,

formulation of standards etc. Section 29-34 describes provisions related to conservation of

national heritage and environmental conservation area including the establishment of

environmental protection fund, formation of council, its roles and responsibilities. Section 35 to

37 specifies penalty and compensation regarding provisions of this Act.

In addition, S4ection 47 of the Act specifies that for matters concerning applications or

complaints related to EPA, 2053 (the previous Act), the same Act will be applicable.

8.5.9 Environment Protection Act, 2053

Nepal has enacted a comprehensive and umbrella type Act, the Environment Protection Act,

1997 (EPA, 1997) which is now enforced through appropriate regulatory measures. The EPA

provides a legal basis for the concerned authorities for regulation of an IEE or EIA. Section 3 of

the Act requires the proponent to conduct an IEE or EIA in relation to the prescribed proposals.

The Act uses the word proposal instead of Projects which makes the scope of the Act much

broader in relation to environmental studies. Proponent includes any government, semi

government or non-government agency or organization submitting an application for the

approval of a proposal and possessing the responsibility to work according to such a proposal

or implementing the proposal.

According to the provision in Section 6 (1) of the Act, the relevant agency is empowered to

grant approval for the IEE and EIA report, only if it finds that no significant adverse effects will

be caused to the environment by the implementation of the proposal. Implementation of any

proposal without the approval of the relevant agency is prohibited by the Act. As per EPA,

1997, the proposed project has obligation to carry out EIA prior its implementation.

8.5.10 Explosives Acts, 2018

This act defines explosives means: 1.granite, nitroglycerin, dynamite, gun-cotton,

blasting powder, mercury or fluent net of other metals and any other material whether or not of

the same category, produced or used with the objectives of bringing about the practical affect

through explosion or the effect of a firecracker nature. 2. fog signal, fuse rocket, percussion

cap, cape, detonator, quartos and all types of ammunitions and the materials produced or

prepared in an identical manner or by making a combination of the Explosives. 3. Plants,

machines or tools that produce or make the Explosives. 4. The materials declared as

explosives by Government of Nepal, by publishing a notice in Nepal Gazette.

No person shall, without a Licensee and if a License not following the terms and conditions

referred to in the license, shall produce, store, use, transport or import Explosives.

The Chief District Officer may, subject to this Act and the Rules framed under it, and having

furnished a notice to the Licensee, make necessary changes to any matter mentioned in any

License.

8.5.11 Child Labor (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 2056

This Act has defined the ‘Child’ as a person who has not achieved the age of 14 year. Article 3

bans employing a child below the age of 14 to work as a laborer. No child shall be engaged in

works as a laborer against his/her will by way of persuasion, misrepresentation or by subjecting

him/her to any influence or fear or threat or coercion or by any other means and working hour

for the child is mentioned in Article 4.



8.5.12 Solid Waste Management Act, 2068

Article 4 rests the responsibility of the solid waste management under the prescribed standards

with the persons or institution that has generated the waste whereas Article 5 mandates

reduction of the waste at source. Article 9 make the institution responsible to transport the solid

waste to the waste disposal facility. The local body (municipality, sub-municipality, city and

Village Development Committee) is made responsible for the monitoring of solid waste

management by Article 21. Article 38 stipulates discharge of solid waste without the consent of

the local body as an offence and Article 39 provisions for the punishment /penalty in case of

offense.

8.5.13 Control of International Trade of Endangered Wild Fauna and Flora Act,

2073

This Act is enacted and enforced adopting Convention on International Trade in Endangered

Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, 1973 to which GoN is a signatory state. The main objective of

this Act is to implement CITES through protection of endangered species and controlling and

regulating the wildlife trade. The Act has strictly prohibited the trade, use, farming, breeding or

transport (export or import) of endangered species of fauna or flora or their samples. However

the Act has provided some flexibility in the above provision by obtaining license.

8.5.14 National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act, 2029

National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act, 2029 (1973) is enacted to make arrangement for

the management of national parks, conservation of wildlife and their habitat and regulation of

hunting. It also conserve, promote, develop, and make appropriate arrangements for and the

use of places which are of special importance from the point of view of natural beauty and to

maintain good manners and welfare of the general public. According to this Act, Conservation

Area is an area to be managed according to an integrated plan for the conservation of natural

environment and balanced utilization of natural resources. GoN declare an area as a national

park or reserve or conservation area by publishing a notice in the Nepal Gazette and by

indicating its boundary. GoN can also abandon or transfer the ownership or alter the

boundaries of an area by publishing a notification in the Nepal Gazette. With the interest of

national park, reserve or conservation area, GoN make arrangements for operating hotels,

lodges, public transport services or similar other services or facilities by itself or through other

parties by entering into a contract. GoN entrust the management of any conservation area to

any institution established with the objective of conserving nature and natural resources for a

particular period by notifying in the Nepal Gazette. As per the Act, 26 mammal species, 9 bird

species and 3 reptiles species of Nepal have been enlisted into the protected categories.

8.5.15 Land Reform Act – 2021

Article 9 'KA' of the act deals with land use and land fragmentation for maximum use of land.

According to this act Government of Nepal can implement land use program in any part of the

country. Similarly government can do fragmentation and plotting of land to increase the

productivity.

8.5.16 Right to Information Act, 2064

This act has seven chapters. Chapter 2 explains about Right to Information and Provision

Regarding the Flow of Information for the public. Every citizen have right to information and.

every citizen shall have access to the information held in the public bodies.

This act explains the responsibility of a public body:

(1) Each Public Body has to respect and protect the right to information of citizen.

(2) Public Body shall have following responsibilities



(a) to classify and update information and make them public, publish and broadcast,

(b) to make the citizens’ access to information simple and easy,

(c) to conduct its functions openly and transparently,

(d) to provide appropriate training and orientation to its staffs,

(3) Public Body may use different national languages and mass media while publishing,

broadcasting or making information public in accordance with Section (a) of Section (2).

This act also explain the updating and Publication of Information : (1) A Public Body shall keep

its information updated.

(2) A Public Body, as long as possible, shall update at least of twenty years

old information from the commencement of this Act

(3) A Public Body shall enlist and publish its following information:

(a) structure and nature of Body,

(b) functions, duties, and powers of Body,

(c) number of employees and working details of Body,

(d) service to be rendered by the Body,

(e) branch and responsible officer of the service providing Body,

(f) fee and time limit required for service,

(g) decision making process and authority,

(h) authority to hear appeal against decision

(i) description of functions performed

(j) name and designation of Chief and Information Officer

(k) list of Acts, Rules, By Laws or Guidelines

(l) updated description of income, expenditures and financial

transactions.

(m) other particulars as prescribed.

8.5.17 Contribution Based Social Security Act 2017

Contribution Based Social Security Act 2017 (2074) ("Social Security Act") was passed by the

Parliament on July 24, 2017 (Shrawan 09, 2074) and accorded the assent by the President on

13 August, 2017 (2074-04-29). The Social Security Act will be effective from November 11,

2017 (Kartik 25, 2074) by virtue of Section 1(2) of the Act. Section 1 (2) of the Social Security

Act provides that it will be effective from 91 (Ninety One days) from the date of assent by

President and has ensured the social security rights to labours working in the country.

Government notification is required for the Social Security Act to be applicable to any

industries, business or service sector. The Social Security Act provides that the government

publishes the notice in Nepal gazette prescribing the sector, industries, business, service or

employer undertaking certain transaction to whom the Social Security Act applies.

The Social Security Act specifies the Scheme that shall operate. The Scheme Include (a)

Medical and Health Protection Scheme, (b) Maternity Protection Scheme, (c) Accidental

Protection Scheme, (d) Old-age Protection Scheme, (e) Dependent Family Protection Scheme,

(f) Unemployment Protection Scheme. The Fund has also authority to introduce other

Schemes.



8.5.18 Landuse Act, 2076

The Land Use Act, 2019 has come into force in Nepal. As per the act, land has been classified

into 10 categories: agricultural; residential; commercial; industrial; mining and mineral; forest;

river, stream, pond and wetland; public use; cultural and archaeological; and others. The land

classification is based on the composition and use of the land. The classification has not clearly

pinpointed guthi land, which is religious land in the name of temples or shrines, from the

revenue of which the religious ceremonies or festivals associated with the temples or shrines

are celebrated and the repairs and maintenance of the temples or shrines are carried out.

The act has been introduced based on the condition of land, population growth, requirements of

land for various purposes like food and habitation and the need for economic development and

infrastructure building, among others. The main aim of the act is to ensure that land is properly

used and managed and that land set aside for one purpose is not used for other.

The act has assigned the responsibility for implementing the act to not only the federal

government but also to the provincial and local governments. As per the act, three tiers of the

government should constitute councils to bring provisions of the act into implementation. The

federal government should draft maps of all the local levels and ensure that all the local

governments are abiding by provisions of the act. The local governments, on their part, should

ensure that the people are adhering to provisions of the act. For this, they will have to form

implementation committees under the leadership of the heads of the local governments. So the

local levels have a major role to play in ensuring implementation of the act.

The provincial and local governments are also required to formulate their own land use laws

based on the act. The federal government can review the land use plan every seven years,

whereas the provincial governments can do so every five years. The local governments can,

however, review the land use plan as and when required. Such a review can be made on the

basis of changing patterns of demography, urbanisation, specific needs for land use for

economic and infrastructure development and so on.

The land use plans should clearly show the location of industrial corridors, special economic

zones, national projects, inter-provincial projects, heritage sites, religious and cultural sites,

academic institutions, security areas, disaster-prone zones, biodiversity-protection zones,

roads, health institutions, irrigation canals and other areas as designated by the government.

The act has provided for a land bank, which is itself a new concept in the country. Under the

concept, land belonging to various people will be pooled together and leased out to those who

are willing to invest in agriculture. The investors can even embark upon collective farming,

which will give a shot-in-the-arm to agricultural production and productivity

8.5.19 Consumer Protection Act, 2075

Consumer Protection Act is expedient to make amendment to and consolidation of the legal

provisions relating to consumer protection in order to protect and promote constitutional rights

of the consumers to obtain quality goods and services, to provide judicial remedy for the

enforcement of the rights obtained by the consumers, and provide compensation for harm and

injury likely to be caused to the consumers;

8.5.20 Children Act, 2075

On 18th September 2018, the Government of Nepal endorsed The Act Relating to Children,

2075 (2018), paving the way to respect, protect and fulfil the rights of children in Nepal. It builds

upon certain national and international provisions that are meant to promote children's rights.

Nepal's 2015 Constitution actually has an article dedicated to children’s fundamental rights - but

this new act translates these provisions and the children’s fundamental rights provided in the

constitution, into a legislative provision, which then allows children to exercise their rights

legally.



The new Children's Act in Nepal is very different. It substantially differs from the earlier

children's act of 1992, as it recognises that children are entitled to these rights - and the state

has an obligation to uphold their rights. This obligation is three-fold - the need to respect the

rights, protect the rights and fulfil the rights of Nepal’s children. Another new significant addition

to the provision list includes that everything must be done to promote the best interest of the

children

8.5.21 Right to Employment Act, 2075

According to right to employment act 2075, every citizen shall have the right to employment.

Every citizen shall have the right to choose employment according to his or her wish. Every

citizen shall have the right to voluntarily engage in employment according to the qualification

and capacity and leave or change such employment. According to act if any person who has

made an application to the Employment Service Center .The Employment Service Center shall

provide information, relating to the availability of laborers required for the employers and

employment opportunity for the listed unemployed person.

If the Government of Nepal cannot provide the unemployed person listed in the Employment

Service Center with minimum employment, it shall, subject to the conditions prescribed, the

livelihood allowance in a sum of fifty percent of the amount equal to such minimum wages of

one hundred days as fixed by the Ministry in one fiscal year.

8.6 Rules and Regulations

8.6.1 Electricity Rules, 2050

Regulation on electricity sectors have been formulated for the implementation of the provisions

made in the Electricity Act, 2049. The Electricity Rules, 2050 emphasize environmental

analysis, which should include environmental mitigation measures to minimize adverse impacts

likely to occur while developing hydro-electricity (Rule 12 and 13).

Rule 12 (f) and Rule (g) are related to the EIA/ IEE process which emphasize that the EIA

report should include measures to be taken to minimize the adverse effects of the project on

social, biological and physical environment and should also elaborate utilization of local labour,

source of materials, benefits to the local people after the completion of the project, training to

local people in relation to construction, maintenance and operation, facilities required for

construction site and safety arrangements.

8.6.2 Water Resources Rules, 2050

It is mandatory under Rule 17(e) of the regulation that any person or corporate body, who

desires to obtain a license for utilization of water resources must state in his application that

appropriate measures will be taken to lessen the adverse effects due to the project on the

overall environment. Rule 19 stipulates that the water resources committee shall publish a

notice giving detail information about the project to the people.

8.6.3 Environment Protection Rules, 2054

The Environment Protection Rules (EPR) was endorsed in June 1997 and was made under the

provisions of the Environment Protection Act. The EPR has been amended several times. The

recent amendment states that TL projects of capacity above 132kV voltage level requires only

IEE unless it traverses through protected area, buffer zone or national parks. As, this TL travels

through protected area (National Parks), EIA is mandatory. The EPR adopts the environmental

assessment criteria mentioned in the EIA guidelines. However, the EPR establishes the

administrative framework for assessment, exhibition and determination of the EIA/IEE, in terms

of issues needed to be addressed and the format/layout of the EIA/IEE document.



Under section (18) of EPA, any person who contravenes any of the provisions of the Act, or the

Regulations or the guidelines issued under the Act, shall be punishable with a fine up to Rs

50,000. If a proposal is implemented without the approval of the Ministry of Environment (in

case of IEE, MoEWRI) or relevant government agency, or the person implementing the

proposal is not complying with the conditions of the approval or license, the authorized official is

empowered to close down that activity and may impose fine of up to Rs. 100,000 on such

person or organization. This Act is relevant to the proposed project. Under this Rules, the EIA

of the proposed project has to be carried out by the proponent and should get approval from the

MoFE prior to the project implementation.

8.6.4 Forest Rules, 2051

Rule 65 of the Forest Rules stipulated that in case the execution of any project having national

priority in any forest area causes any loss or harm to any local individuals or community the

proponent of the project itself will bear the amount of compensation to be paid. Similarly, the

entire expenses required for the cutting and transporting the forest products in a forest area

should be borne by the proponent of the project.

8.6.5 National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Rules, 2030

To implement Section 33 of the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act, 2029 (1973),

National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Rules, 2030 (1974) was prepared. Chapter 2, Section

3 of this rule focused on publishing a notice at least 35 days of time period to submit the shield

tender in the major newspapers for operating any services from any bodies of the Government

of Nepal inside national parks and reserves. To operate any services or facilities related to

construction work within the national park or reserve, the person shall take the approval of the

Government of Nepal. Except the Government employees deputed for the duty, other person

shall not be allowed to enter into the preserved national reserve without receiving the written

permission from the chief. The permission shall be provided only for a scientific research.

8.6.6 Contribution-based Social Security Regulation 2018

Nepal government has approved the Contribution-based Social Security Regulations on 11th

November, 2018 and ensured the social security rights to labours working in the country. The

Regulations has made arrangements for providing social security to the contributors. As per

law, both employers and employees must mandatorily deposit their instalment for the scheme

and it is applicable for all types of workers. The scheme is in accordance with the Contribution-

based Social Security Regulation. The Regulations has provisions for enlisting in the Social

Security Fund, the individuals drawing salary from the government fund, the labours in the

informal sector and self-employed individuals.The contribution-based social security scheme is

funded through the contributions made by the workers and the employers. This is a historical

step towards achieving decent work for all. The scheme is set to initially include medical, health

and maternity benefit; accidental and disability benefit; benefits for dependent family members

and old-age benefit. This is a historical step towards achieving decent work for all. The

Government plans to extend the scheme to workers in the informal sector soon.

8.6.7 Water Resources Rules, 2050

It is mandatory under Rule 17(e) of the regulation that any person or corporate body, who

desires to obtain a license for utilization of water resources must state in his application that

appropriate measures will be taken to lessen the adverse effects due to the project on the

overall environment. Rule 19 stipulates that the water resources committee shall publish a

notice giving detail information about the project to the people.



8.6.8 Electricity Rules, 2050

Regulation on electricity sectors have been formulated for the implementation of the provisions

made in the Electricity Act, 2049. The Electricity Rules, 2050 emphasize environmental

analysis, which should include environmental mitigation measures to minimize adverse impacts

likely to occur while developing hydro-electricity (Rule 12 and 13). Rule 12 (f) and Rule (g) are

related to the EIA/ IEE process which emphasize that the EIA report should include measures

to be taken to minimize the adverse effects of the project on social, biological and physical

environment and should also elaborate utilization of local labour, source of materials, benefits

to the local people after the completion of the project, training to local people in relation to

construction, maintenance and operation, facilities required for construction site and safety

arrangements.

8.7 Guidelines and Working Procedures

8.7.1 National EIA Guidelines, 2050

The National EIA Guidelines, 1993 developed by the National Planning Commission in

conjunction with IUCN, set out the process for the environmental review and management of

infrastructure projects in all sectors and the respective roles of certain GoN agencies and

project proponents. The guideline was part of a comprehensive program to develop the national

and sectoral guidelines for establishing a national system for EIA which was part of GoN's

National Conservation Strategy. The schedules attached to the Guidelines include:

Schedule 1 : Projects requiring IEE Report

Schedule 2 : Projects requiring EIA

Schedule 3 : EIA based on project sites

Schedule 4 : Format for Terms of Reference

Schedule 5 : EIA Report Format

Schedule 6 : Format of EIA Report Annexes

It is mandatory to follow the National EIA Guidelines, 2050 (1993) during the EIA. Following the

guidelines, the environmental impact prediction and evaluation of the proposed project has

been done on physical, biological and socio-economic and cultural environment of the project

area. The guideline is used for analysis of significant issues.

8.7.2 EIA Guidelines for Forestry Sector, 1995

The GoN in keeping with the spirit of the National Environmental Impact Assessment

Guidelines, 1993 framed EIA guidelines for the forestry sector in 1995. The Guideline aim to

facilitate the sustainable use of forest resources for socio-economic development and meeting

basic need to the community regarding the forest products, to make proposals socio culturally

acceptable, economically feasible, and environmental friendly to conserve genetic resources

and biodiversity and minimize environmental damage in forest areas and facilitate in

identification of positive and negative impacts of programs to be implemented by other

agencies in forest areas. The guideline emphasized the need of carrying out an EIA/IEE of

development projects and programs proposed for implementation in forest areas.

8.7.3 Forest Production, Collection and Sales Distribution Guidelines, 2057

The Clauses 3 to 10 of the Guidelines have specified various procedure and formats for getting

approval for vegetation clearance, delineation of lands for vegetation clearance, evaluation of

wood volume etc. and government offices and officials responsible for the approval, delineation

and evaluation. These provisions have a direct relevance to the development of the project and

need compliance to these provisions. These provisions have a direct relevance to the

development of the project and need compliance to these provisions. It is obligation to the



project for getting approval in view of vegetation clearance and evaluation of wood volume from

division forest office prior to the construction phase.

8.7.4 Community Forest Guidelines, 2058

This guideline has been prepared by including amendments of acts, rules by officials of GoN

and related experts. Through these guidelines, persons involved in the development and

management of community forest like facilitators, User Groups, forester and managers etc. will

get help to understand about the process and stages of development of community forest.

Forest Users Group, forest officials, NGOs and INGOs are getting benefit by this guideline. Till

date, more than 15000 Community Forests have been handed over to the CFUGs.

8.7.5 Working Procedure and Standards for the Use of National Forest Land for

National Priority Project, 2076

Guideline for the use of forest area for development projects of National Priority projects

reiterates the use of the forest area only if other options are not available. The projects

requiring the forest land area have to make alternative studies to minimize the forest land use

areas. The proponent of the National Priority Project, National Pride Project, Priority

Transmission Line Project and Investment Allocated Project from Investment Board has to get

the approval from the Ministry of Forest and Environment.

The proponent of the project has to provide the land equal to the forest land permanently

occupied by the project to the ministry of forest and environment. The government project has

to make the provision of such land cost at its cost-estimate. Otherwise, Ministry of finance has

to provide such cost.

The proponent has to afforest the area equal to the forest area lost at minimum or the

proponent could deposit the required amount as per forest norm to the division forest office.The

proponent should plant 10 trees for every loss of tree and pole and look after the plantation for

5 years to ensure their protection and growth of every planted tree. Or the proponent deposit

the required amount for plantation and protection for five years to the DFO.

8.7.6 Order for Remission of Land Ceiling Exemtion, 2074 Nepal Government, Ministry of Land Reform and Management published a notice in Section 67

number 29 Nepal Gazette part 5 dated 2064/06/25, by using the authority given in Article 12 of

Land Reform Act 2021, containing the provision to purchase more than dissociated land by the

education or health institution, hydropower, cultural, industrial work, work for agricultural

industry and co-operative farming organization, if such industry or institutions need.

8.7.7 Guidelines for Licensing of Electricity Project, 2075

GoN has introduced new guideline for licensing power project. The guideline focuses briefly on

the procedures for taking survey license of production, generation and distribution of power

project, its amendment, renewable and dissolution.

8.7.8 Social Security Schemes Operation Directives, 2075

The Social Security Fund (the “SSF”) has formulated the Social Security Schemes Operational

Directives (“Directives”) to operate the Social Security Schemes pursuant to Section 10 of the

Social Security Act. The Directive has been approved by the Ministry of Labor, Employment

and Social Security on November 22, 2018 (2075/08/06) and has been effective thereof.



8.7.9 Hydropower Environmental Impact Assessment Manual, 2018

This Manual should be used in conjunction with the Nepal’s National EIA Guideline which

dictates the minimum standards, administrative systems and processes and templates to

befollowed during an EIA for any qualifying project. Where appropriate, good

internationalpractices have been included with this Manual to augment the standard EIA

approach, and assist hydropower project proponents in better defining environmental and social

risks, responsibilities and opportunities. Specifically, the Manual can be used at different

phases and fordifferent purposes for the preparation and review of EIAs for hydropower

projects. The Manual can be used for all types of hydropower projects that require an EIA

based on the Environment Protection Act and its regulations, particularly Schedule-2 of the

regulations. It aims to facilitate the EIA process for all hydropower projects such as run-of-river

(diversion and/or storage), storage reservoir and pumped storage facilities and associated

facilities of the project such as power transmission lines, substations, construction materials

management, and access roads.

The Manual outlines the approach for preparing, submitting, reviewing and implementing EIAs

related to hydropower in Nepal. Section 4 highlights stakeholder engagement and public

participation, section 5 and 6 is adhered to screening and scoping. Section 7, 8 & 9 related to

identifying, assessing and managing environmental and social impacts.

8.7.10 Forest Products, Collection, Sale and Distribution Directives,2073 The directives have specified various procedures and formats for getting approval for

vegetationclearance, delineation of lands for vegetation clearance, evaluation of wood

volume,etc. and government offices and officials responsible for the approval, delineation and

evaluation.These provisions have a direct relevance to the development of the project and

needcompliance to these provisions.

8.7.11 Community Forest Resource Inventory Guidelines, 2061 With the aim to assist Community Forest Users Group for sustainable forest management,

Community Forest Resource Inventory Guideline was prepared. The inventory guideline has six

chapters. Second chapter of the guidelin include forest resource inventory methodologies,

tools, sample size and intensity, resource requirement etc. Chapter three contains data

collection methodologies, sample design techniques and forest stock estimation techniques

including forest diversity. There is data analysis techniques and utilization of information

obtained from data analysis in chapter four and five.

8.8 Conventions

8.8.1 Convention on Biological Diversity, 1992

The convention contains a series of far reaching obligations related to the conservation of

biological diversity and sustainable uses of its components. One of these obligations is the

requirement for environmental study. The purpose of an environmental study in relation to

biodiversity conservation is to identify in advance:

• The aspects of the project which is likely to have significant adverse effects on biological diversity

at genetic, species and ecosystem level, and

• The steps to be taken to avoid or minimize significant adverse effects to ensure that the

proposed project comply with existing environmental legislation

The GoN has included 17 species of plants and 39 species of wild animals in the protection

list.If the project area is in the core habitat of these species and project activity will likely to

affect them, mitigation measures shall be proposed and be implemented to avoid and/ or

mitigate the adverse impacts. Nepal is a party to the convention of Biological diversity and in



accordance to the article 14, adequate attention should be given to minimize and or avoid the

impacts.

8.8.2 Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna

and Flora (CITES), 1973

Nepal became a signatory state to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered

Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) on June 18, 1975. That aims to control the trade of

certain wildlife species to prevent further endangered species of their survival. CITES classified

species according to the following criteria: a) Species threatened with extinction, b) Species

which could become endangered and c) Species that are protected.

As Nepal is party to the convention related to species conservation, attention should be given to

evaluate the impacts of the project activities on meeting their obligation. It is relevant to EIA that

species protection list could also be used to evaluate the significance of the identified and

predicted impacts. Plant and wild animal species under legal protection provides a basis to

purpose EMPs for their conservation and for least damaging them during project

implementation.Nepal is signatory to this convention, which classified species according to

criteria where access or control is important (eg. I-species threatened with extinction; II-species

which could become endangered; III-species that are protected).

8.8.3 ILO Convention of Indigenous and Tribal Peoples (No.169)

Nepal ratified International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention No. 169 on September 14,

2007. In 2007 the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples was adopted by the

General Assembly. The declaration reaffirms the importance of the principle and approaches

provided for under Convention No. 169 and its adoption therefore provide a fresh impetus for

promoting the ratification and implementation of 169. ILO Convention No. 169 highlights the

need to recognize indigenous and tribal people’s specific knowledge, skills and technologies as

the basis for their traditional economies and self-determined development process.

Article-1 of the convention provides definition of the tribal indigenous people. Article-6 deals the

consultation of the people concerned through appropriate procedure in particular through their

representative institutions. Whenever, consideration is being given to legislative or

administrative measures which may affect them directly.In Article 15, the rights of the people

concerned to the natural resources pertaining to their lands shall cover the total environments

of the areas which the people concerned occupy or use. The peoples concerned shall wherever

possible participate in the benefit of such activities and shall receive fair compensation for any

damage which they may sustain as a result of such activities. Article 16 (2) clearly mention that

where the relocation of these peoples is considered necessary as an exceptional measures

such as relocation shall take place only with their free and inform consent.

Where their consent cannot be obtained, such relocation shall take place only following

appropriate procedures established by national laws and regulations, including public inquiries

where appropriate, which provide the opportunity for effective representation of the peoples

concerned. Article 16 (3) mention that whenever possible these peoples shall have the right to

return their traditional land as soon as the grounds for relocation cease to exist. Article 16 (5)

elaborated the persons thus relocated shall be fully compensated for any resulting loss or

injury. The ILO Convention on Indigenous and Tribal Peoples, 1989 (No.169) is relevant for the

proposed project as there are indigenous and tribal families in the project affected area. The

project will acquire and utilize most of the natural resources belonging to those families. Hence,

the project has obligation to have consultation and taking consensus from them before the

implementation of the project.



Article-15 states that the rights of the people concerned to the natural resources pertaining to

their lands shall be specifically safeguarded. Provision includes the people to participate in the

use, management and conservation of these resources. This provision creates some confusion

and ultimately brings conflict between the project proponent and resources owners. Project

share distribution and employment priority to these people will somehow reduce the possible

conflict. The provision made in the ILO Convention on Indigenous and Tribal Peoples, 1989

(No.169) is not line fully with the prevailing acts and rules regarding environmental study of the

proposed project.

8.9 Standards 8.9.1 National Ambient Air Quality Standard, 2069 The National Ambient Air Quality Standards, 2012 enforced by GoN has set maximum

concentration limit for nine air quality parameters. These parameters includes total suspended

particles (TSP), particulate matter (PM10), sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, carbon mono-oxide,

lead, benzene, PM2.5 and Ozone. The standards has also prescribed the test methods for these

parameters. The project during its construction and operation will have to comply with set

standards for the ambient air quality.

8.9.2 Nepal Vehicle Mass Emission Standard, 2069 In order to regulate the vehicular emission, GoN released the Nepal Vehicle Mass Emission

Standard, 2069. This standard has set the limit values on different parameters of emission for

petrol and diesel fueled vehicles. These parameters include carbon monoxide, hydrocarbon,

oxides of nitrogen particulate matters (PM) and smoke opacity. Furthermore, these standards

are based on type approval and conformity of production of the vehicles.

8.9.3 National Ambient Sound Quality Standard, 2069 It has set the limit of allowable noise/sound intensity in different areas at different time, during

the day and the night. The limit of sound intensity is different for different area like industrial

area, commercial area, settlement areas in rural and urban settings, etc. These standard will be

complied.

8.9.4 Standard on Emission of Smoke by Diesel Generators, 2069 Emission standards are set for the new and existing diesel generators by the GoN. The

standard has set the limits on four parameters of emission including Carbon monoxide (CO),

hydrocarbon (HC), oxide of nitrogen (NOx) and Particulate Matter (PM). This standard is set in

accordance with the EURO III and Bharat III standards. The generators to be used during

project construction will follow these standards.

8.10 Province Level Laws and Policies Gandaki Province has issued some guidelines and policies related to environment and use of

natural resources. As the proposed AKSHEP lies in Gandaki Province, it is worthwhile to review

these guidelines.

8.10.1 9'Ëf, lu§L, afn'jf pTvgg, ;Íng, qml;Ë / ljlqmljt/0f tyf qm;/ pBf]u :yfkgf / ;+rfngnfO{

Jojl:yt ug]{ sfo{ljwL, @)&%

This working procedure requires the local bodies to prepare a work plan on annual basis to

designate the areas for excavation and collection of construction materials including sand and

aggregates. The local bodies are further required to carry out the environmental assessment

(IEE or EIA) as per existing laws prior to collection of construction materials.



For any excavation and collection of construction materials from the protected areas (National

park, wildlife reserve, conservation areas), the concerned protected area office need to prepare

the annual plan and carry out environmental assessment. Further this working procedure has

also restricted the collection of construction materials from Asar 1 to Bhadra 15. Similarly, in the

remaining time period of the year, the excavation, and collection is restricted in the nighttime.

Similarly, for national or province priority projects and other community construction works, the

local bodies can provide the required construction materials from their administrative

boundaries by charging tax or royalty based upon the existing rates.

Andhikhola Storage HEP (180 MW) Environmental Management Plan


9 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

9.1 Introduction This chapter on environmental management, monitoring and audit is formulated in accordance

with Nepalese EIA requirements. The plan specifies the environmental responsibilities of all

parties involved in the project and detail the environmental management requirements of the

project during the pre-construction, construction and operation phases. The project proponent

will be responsible for the implementation of the EMP. The plan will apply adaptive

management to accommodate changes in project design during the time. As there is

uncertainty in predicting impacts and effectiveness of mitigation measures, the EMP is

proposed as a plan that will be revised periodically during pre-construction, construction,

operation and maintenance phases. The EMP will be updated during the final design to cover

the likely changes in project design, likely changes in policy and regulatory mechanism and

stakeholder concerns.

9.2 Objectives of EMP The principle objective of the EMP for AKSHEP is to formulate a framework for ensuring that all

mitigation measures identified in Chapter 7 are implemented and to provide a basis for

examining whether the mitigation measures are effective after implementation. In this context

the EMP refers to the project management, monitoring and auditing actions required to ensure

compliance with environmental laws and to reduce or eliminate adverse impacts and enhance

environmental opportunities.

The EMP is an environmental operation manual for use by management and staff employed on

the project, and will serve as an advisory document to regulatory authorities such as

MoEWRIand MoFE. The plan specifies the agency responsible for mitigation and how it will co-

ordinate with various line agencies. The EMP has the following objectives:

• define environmental management principles and guidelines for design, construction and

operation of the project;

• establish the roles and responsibilities of all parties involved in project environmental

management;

• describe mitigation measures that shall be implemented to avoid or mitigate adverse

environmental impacts;

• formulate environment management framework to ensure the implementation of mitigation

measures and monitoring programs; and

• establish a supervision, monitoring, auditing and reporting framework.

9.3 Environment Legislation The EPA, 1997 and EPR, 1997 are the main umbrella legislations in Nepal. The MoFE is the

lead agency, which administers the environmental matters emphasizing on environmental

conservation and management through internalizing environmental assessment, pollution

control and prevention, conservation of natural heritage sites, compensation for environmental

damages, etc. However, there are several other policies, guidelines, acts and rules which relate

to construction and operation of AKSHEP and will comply with the provisions by the involved

parties during the period.

9.4 Environmental Management Plan This EMP has two components; the environmental management activities and the activities

implementing organ.



9.4.1 Environmental Management Activities

The environmental management activity is a synthesized plan incorporating the elements of

environmental mitigation and enhancement measures. The environmental mitigation and

enhancement measures are bundled in a series of activities in the project life cycle. The

environmental management actions for the project is broadly described in the following

headings; Permits and Approval Plan, Resettlement and Rehabilitation Plan; Public Health and

Safety Management, Environmental Enhancement Plan, Project Information Management Plan,

Public Grievances Redress Management Plan, Institutional Capacity Strengthening Plan and

Pollution Abatement Plan. The elements stipulated in above plans go hand in hand throughout

the project life cycle.

9.4.1.1 Permits and Approval Plan

The objective of permits and approvals is to comply with the government legislative mechanism

and to keep cordial relationships with the project stakeholders. There are a number of

legislative provisions which require prior permits and approvals from the concerned government

agencies to commence the work. As per EPR, 1997 the project proponent will have prime

responsibility for the implementation of EMP. The EPA and EPR made provisions for the

compliance of EIA report. The implementation of EMP will be guided by GoN policies and legal

framework. Land Acquisition Act, 2034 (1977) regulates the land acquisition and compensation

determination process. Similarly, Forest Act, 2076 and Regulations 2051 (1995) regulates

forest clearance required for the project. There are other Acts, Rules and Policies which directly

or indirectly regulate the environmental activities of the project.

Besides, some activities would require general consensus of the project area communities or

individuals for smooth operation of certain activities of construction and operation without

hindrance. In these cases project management should take prior permits and approvals or

consensus of the people or individuals before the start of the activities. The project should

ensure that all the permits and approval or consensus of the general public is taken before the

start of the activities. Permits and approval required for the project are presented in the table

given below.

Table 9-1: Permits and Approval Plan

S.

N. Issues Authority Required Documents Responsibility

1 Generation license DoED/ MoEWRI,

GoN

Approved EIA report, Project

feasibility study report, and project

design report

Project/NEA

2 EIA Report MoFE, GoN EIA report as per schedule 6 of EPR Project/NEA

3 Tree clearing from

community forests

and Government

forest

MoFE, GoN

Approved EIA report

Detail information on forest

management by type, forest area

requirement, species wise tree loss

and rational of forest area clearance

Project/NEA

4

Involuntary

structures and land

acquisition

District

administration

office and Land

owners

Approved resettlement action plan

report, detail of cadastral map with

affected parcels and households,

Decision of Compensation fixation

committee and entitlement matrix

Project/NEA

5

Relocation of cultural

and religious site

Concerned

municipality and

RMs and local

committee

Approved design documents Project/NEA

6 Land lease

agreement for

Land owners Agreement letter with land holders Project/

Contractor/



S.

N. Issues Authority Required Documents Responsibility

temporary facilities LARU

7 Relocation and

Rehabilitation of

displaced

Infrastructure

Local User

Committee/ Ward

Office

Agreement to the concerned

committee and ward office

Project/NEA

8 Permit to extract

material

Land owners EIA report of the quarry site

including quarry site management

plan report

Contractor

9 Entry to private land

and property, if

required

Land owners Consent of land owners Contractor

LARU: Land Acquisition and Rehabilitation Unit

9.4.1.2 Tipping and Quarry Site Management Plan

There will be the huge volume of earth mass generate mainly from the tunnel construction. It is

estimated that, a volume of earth mass to be safely managed. Therefore, the contractor will

safely manage the extra cut volume of earth on designated tipping site. Before the construction

work begin, contractor shall submit tipping site management plan to the proponent. After getting

approval, contractor will manage the tipping material there. Proponent will made provision for

the cost of transportation of excess earth mass to the designated tipping sites. Following the

recent policies of the government of Nepal, contractor will collect quarry material from the

approved sites only. Before the quarry operation to begin, contractor will submit and get

approval of the quarry site operation and management plan.

Monitoring: The proponent will monitor the disposal of daily excess earth mass of the project.

Table 9-2 : Tipping and Quarry Site Management Plan S.

N. Activities Timing of Action Location Responsibility

1 Prepare, approve and implement the

tipping site management plan Before construction Contractor

2 Prepare, approve and implement the

quarry site management plan Before construction Contractor

Monitoring

4 Location of disposal of excess earth During construction Construction

sites

Contractor

5 Location of collection of quarry material During construction Construction

sites

Contractor

9.4.1.3 Pollution Abatement Plan

The objective of the pollution abatement plan is to avoid or minimize the pollution streams

(gaseous, liquid, solid and acoustic) from the project activities during pre-construction,

construction and operation periods of the project. Both avoidance and mitigation measures will

be implemented by the project as mentioned in Chapter-7 for air, water, and solid waste

pollution. The following table highlights the key features of the pollution abatement plan and

physical environment management plan.



Table 9-3: Pollution Abatement and Physical Environment Management Plan

S.

N.

Issues Likely Potential Impacts Suggested Mitigation Measures Time of Action Responsibility

1 Soil erosion and

Land Stability

a) Hazard to the nearby settlements

b) Spoil disposal in the adjacent

agriculture fields and forest may

degrade agricultural land and

standing vegetation of forest land.

c) Increase rate of sedimentation

d) Pollute downstream water Quality

a) Protecting earth surface with shotcrete, grouting, and stone

pitching, steel reinforced

b) Balance cutting and filling provision in road construction

c) Use of bio-engineering technique for land stabilization

d) Construction of retaining wall to protect soil mass

e) A drainage plan should be developed to minimize the effect

of drainage disruption

During

Construction

and Operation

Project and

Contractor

2 Air Quality • Direct impact on health of human and

wildlife

• Limited visibility in working area

a) Regular sprinkling of water in the earthen/gravel of road

corridor at least three times in a day in dry season;

b) Compact and water sprinkling regularly in the spoil disposal site

• Speed limits for the vehicles plying in the dusty construction

roads

• Use of construction vehicles/ equipment/compressors/diesel

generating sets comply with government mass emissions

standard

During

Construction

Period

Project and

Contractor

3 Water Quality Direct impact on health of human, wildlife and aquatic life

• Provision of a good sanitary facilities with adequate toilet,

washing tap, drinking water facilities and sanitation facilities

in the construction camp

• Prohibition of the discharge of the sanitary liquids and toxic

liquids such as spent oils, burnt mobile, grease, lubricants,

grouting chemicals etc. in land and water bodies from the

construction sites.

• Establishment of separate area for the collection and

storage of hazard and toxic material waste including

batteries, oil filters, Mobil, burnt oil etc.

• Provision of solid waste management system at Camps.

Establishment of separate storage area for the wastes of

packing materials such as plastic bag, jute bags, cardboard,

paper etc. for later reuse or sale

• Prohibition on open urination and defecation in waterways,

around camps and construction sites,

During

Construction

Period

Project and

Contractor



S.

N.

Issues Likely Potential Impacts Suggested Mitigation Measures Time of Action Responsibility

• Prohibition of quarrying of aggregates and sand from the

river’s wet channel

• Provision of training to the labor force in using storage areas

with regard to safe handling to toxic and non-toxic water

material.

4 Noise Quality Health Hazard • Speed restriction to the construction vehicles in areas close

to the settlement and structures.

• Restriction on unnecessary use of Horns

• Regular maintenance of all the equipment as per

manufactures specification to reduce the engine noises

• Aggregate crushing and blasting work in day time

• Strict to control blasting limited to extent that is required at

its minimum level to minimize noise levels and vibrations.

• Notification to the communities prior to noisy activities

(particularly surface blasting)

• Compensation to the damage of structure, if found related to

the vibration and overpressure

During

Constructio and

operation

Project and

Contractor

5 Change in

Hydrology and

river Morphology

Hazard in existing stable environment of river

a) Provision of re-regulating dam

b) Provision of cascade project

During

Operation

Project

6 Reservoir rim

failure

Hazard in existing settlement and highway Decrease age of reservoir

a) Protecting earth surface with shotcrete, grouting, and stone

pitching, soil reinforced

b) Maintenance of the existing environment

c) Geological investigation in reservoir area

During

construction and

operation

Project and

contractor

7 Change in

microclimate of

reservoir area

Effect of aquatic life and surrounding climate

a) Further study on breeding and spawning related to water

temperature

During

construction and

operation

Project



9.4.1.4 Terrestrial and Aquatic Ecology Management Plan

In order to mitigate the impacts of the propose project on the terrestrial and aquatic ecology

specific plan will be prepared and implemented by the project. The project will also conduct an

orientation campaign to raise awareness regarding the conservation and management of

aquatic and terrestrial ecology. Financial arrangement to implement all these plans are kept in

this report.

Monitoring: The proponent will monitor the occurrence of the wild flora and fauna listed in this

report during and after the project implementation.

Table 9-4: Terrestrial and Aquatic Ecology Management Plan

S.

N. Activities Time of Action Location Responsibility

1 Training on forest management

and wildlife conservation During construction Affected forests Proponent

2 Fish conservation and awareness

program During construction Affected forests Proponent

Monitoring

3

Recording the observed species

(Wildlife and bird) by the local

people after project operation

During and after

construction PAA Proponent

4

Recording the fish catch by the

local people after project

construction

During and after

construction

Andhikhola and

Kaligandaki River Proponent

5 Recording the status of NTFPs During and after

construction PAA proponent

9.4.1.5 Public Health and Occupational Safety Management Plan

The proposed construction activities need a great number of labor during construction period.

The OHS of labor at work site and labor camp are the main issues during the project

construction period. To maintain sanitation and hygiene of labor, safe drinking water and

sanitation facilities including toilet shall be constructed at labor camp site. Contractor will

prepare, approve and implement the labor camp management plan. Contractor shall provide

personal protective gears like: Gloves, helmet, boot, masks, etc. as per the OSH Guidelines to

labor. For Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) the proponent shall made provision in detail

DPR.

Table 9-5: Public Health and Occupation Safety Management Plan

S.N. Activities Timing of Actions Location Responsibility

1 Prepare and approve the labor

camp management plan

Before

construction Contractor

2 OSH and PE for labor During

construction Construction site Contractor

Monitoring

2 Implement the labor camp

management plan

During

construction Construction site

Contractor /

Proponent

4 PPE use by labor During

construction Construction site

Contractor /

Proponent

9.5 Environment Management Approach During the planning and pre-construction phase, the prime responsibility for the environment

management is with NEA as the proponent of the Project. NEA has however, delegated the

authority to ESSD in following up the national approval process of the EIA process. This

department will be responsible for the overall control of social management program of the



project. This department will also be responsible for the coordination of work of the project at

central level management of NEA and central line agencies. It is proposed that ESSD will

implement monitoring program and some of the social mitigation. The mitigation and social

support program will be implemented by mobilizing local NGOs, Consulting firm Contractor and

line agencies.

9.5.1 Pre-construction Phase

The EMP for preconstruction phase will include land acquisition and compensation, public

concern issues, Stakeholder Engagement Plan and Indigenous Peoples Development Plan, co-

ordination with line agencies and local NGOs and INGOs. The allocation of adequate budget for

the implementation of preconstruction measures, follow up for contract clauses that needs to be

incorporated in tender documents are the other activities to be managed or conducted during

the pre-construction phase. The ESSD of NEA will have the prime responsibility for dealing with

preconstruction issues. During this phase a CDC will be formed to deal with all the

compensation matters.


This phase is the most critical as it requires expertise and resources to manage the

construction phase impacts. It includes implementation of the suggested mitigation measures

outlined in Chapter VII with the EMP as a vital tool and is dependent on liaison with local line

agencies, NEA central office and other line agencies. The project proponent will be responsible

for carrying out the requirements for mitigation, implementing, and monitoring the EMP,

Stakeholder Engagement Plan, water-use management plan and Indigenous Peoples

Development Plan through an approach to be formulated by them. The detail of the water-use

management plan is given in Table below.


An environment unit will be formed, for the first two years of operation, under the Plant Manager

for the monitoring during the operation phase which will also be responsible for implementing

the environmental mitigation measures of the AKSHEP. This unit will have representatives from

ESSD of NEA. The proponent will provide the cost required for the implementation of the

operation phase environmental management program.

9.6 Management Plan for Downstream and Upstream Water User

9.6.1 Downstream Water User

Kaligandaki ‘A’ HEP owned by Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) is the immediate downstream

water user of Andhikhola from proposed dam site. This hydropower is located about 2.5km at

downstream of proposed dam site. Due to the implementation of proposed storage hydropower

project, existing Kaligandaki “A’ HEP will receive reduced amount of water from Andhikhola

river as shown in Table 5-2. Proposed storage Hydropower need to compensate for retaining

water contributed by Andhikhola to existing Kaligandaki ‘A’ HEP Thus, recommended

management plan is presented in table 9-6.



9.6.2 Upstream Water User

a. Hydropower Project:

Andhikhola hydropower project owned by Butwal Power Company (BPC) is the water user at

upstream of dam site which will be inundated with the implementation of proposed storage

project. As per the power purchase agreement (PPA) between NEA and BPC, if NEA

constructs Andhikhola Storage HEP, BPC will not get any kind of compensation for the

inundation of headwork structure of existing Andhikhola HEP and other loss related to energy

and revenue. However, if BPC wise to continue to operate existing hydropower, it can modify or

relocate the intake site with its own cost without any additional cost to the NEA. Thus, there

exist two case scenario for BPC; first, continue to operate existing HEP with modification of

intake and second, terminate to operate existing HEP.

If BPC does not wise to continue to operate existing hydropower, but Andhikhola Storage HEP

wise to continue to operate, AKSHEP can modify the intake structure of existing HEP with its

own cost and can operate. Thus, for these case scenarios, the recommended management

plan is present in table 9-6

b. Irrigation Scheme operated by AKWUA

Irrigation scheme operated by AKWUA is another water user at upstream of dam site. The

irrigation system provides irrigation facility for a total land area of 500ha in Syangja and Palpa

district. Water user’s organization Andhikhola Water User Association (AKWUA), has been

formed for the regular operation and management of the irrigation system. The irrigation

scheme acquires water from Andhikhola through headrace tunnel of existing Andhikhola HEP

to the shaft site from where water is diverted to open canal for irrigation purpose. Thus, with the

implementation of project, intake of existing hydropower will be inundated which will not only

effect hydropower but also for irrigation scheme.

EIA recommend for continue supply of water for irrigation scheme. Thus, there exist two case

scenario for irrigation project; first, continue to supply water from modification of existing

structure; second, construct new structure to supply water for irrigation scheme. For these

cases, management plan has been present in table 9-6.



Table 9-6: Water-use management plan

Downstream water user

Water User Scheme Responsibility Work to be done Time Remarks

Kaligandaki

‘A” HEP

Compensation

to Kaligndaki ‘A’

HEP

AKSHEP and

NEA

• Negotiation between NEA and AKSHEP

• Jointly study hydrology and contribution of Andhikhola river to Kaligandaki ‘A’ HEP

• Calculation loss of energy due to reduced flow because of proposed storage project

• Determine compensation model in form of either energy or cash

Before generation

license

Upstream water user

Water User Scheme Responsibility Work to be done Time Remarks

Andhikhola

HEP (9.4MW

Continue to

operate existing

HEP with

Modification of

Intake

BPC/AKSHEP(If

BPC wish to

continue

existing HEP)

• BPC - Detail study and modification work of intake and other structures

• AKSHEP - Alternatives study analysis with incorporating allocated water for existing HEP

During detail design

phase and before

construction of

AKSHEP

Cost of modification is to be

bear by BPC. (As per

agreement of NEA and BPC)

AKSHEP (If

BPC wish to

terminate but

AKSHEP wish

to continue

existing HEP)

• Detail study and modification work of intake and other structures.

• Study of alternatives analysis with incorporating allocated water for existing HEP

Before Construction

of AKSHEP

Terminate to

operate existing

HEP by BPC

BPC No compensation cost for existing

Andhikhola HEP -9.4MW

(As per provision made in agreement

of NEA and BPC)

Irrigation

System

associated

with existing

Continuous

Supply of water

for irrigation

BPC/AKSHEP • BPC - Detail study and modification work of intake and other structures.

• AKSHEP - Alternatives study analysis with incorporating allocated water for existing HEP and irrigation

During detail design

phase and before

construction of

AKSHEP

Cost of modification is to be

bear by BPC. No additional

cost will be bear by NEA (As

per provision made in



HEP system agreement of NEA and BPC)

AKSHEP (If

BPC does not

wish to continue

existing HEP

and irrigation

system)

• Negotiation between AKSHEP and AKWUA to determine quantity of water to be allocate for existing irrigation scheme

• Detail study and modification work of intake and other structures.

• Study of alternatives analysis with incorporating allocated water for existing irrigation system

Before detail design

and construction of

AKSHEP



9.7 Implementation Approach and Mechanism

9.7.1 Project Stakeholders for Environmental Management

Key stakeholders including AKSHEP, to be involved for project environmental management

are:

• Ministry of Forests and Environment (MoFE)

• Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation (MoEWRI)

• Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation (DNPWC)

• Department of Forest and Soial Conservation (DoFSC)

• Department of Environment (DoE)

• Project proponent/Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA)

• Construction Management/Supervision Consultant

• Environment Monitoring Unit

• Environment Management and Grievances Redress Unit

• Local Consultative Forum

• Contractor and

• Local level Government and non-government organizations.

9.7.2 Institutional Arrangement and Responsibility

The institutional arrangement and responsibility has been divided into central level and project

level arrangements as follows;

9.6.2.1 Central Level Arrangement

I) Environment and Social Studies Department

ESSD will be responsible for the overall control of environmental and social management

program of the project. This department shall be coordinating the work of the project at central

level management of NEA and central line agencies. ESSD shall be implementing monitoring

program and some of the social mitigation work in coordination with concerned line agencies

and local NGOs. The mitigation and social support program will be implemented by mobilizing

local NGOs, consulting firm, contractor and line agencies. The program coordinator will be

responsible for overall coordination and implementation of the environmental and social

mitigation programs. Environmental and social expert at central and local level will assist

program coordinator.

II) Central Level Line Agencies

The central level line agencies such as MoEWRI, DoED have responsibility for the monitoring

of project activities about Environmental and Social Management, Mitigation and Monitoring

Plan. ESSD will coordinate with central level line agencies regarding the monitoring work.

As the concerned line agency, Department of Forest is responsible for the implementation of

afforestation program as per the existing guidelines. Discussion is ongoing between the

Project/NEA and Department of Forest regarding the implementation of the compensatory

forestation program. NEA can pay the required cost for plantation and five years management

to Department and the Forest Department will implement the work through their district level

forest offices. ESSD may also implement the afforestation program if requested by the project.

III) Joint Monitoring Committee

To ensure the proper implementation of mitigation measures and monitoring work a joint

monitoring team will be formed which will monitor the activities of the Andhikhola Storage

Hydroelectric Project -Environment Management Unit (AK-EMU), EM, GRU and Contractor on



periodic basis. This monitoring team will be coordinated by the AKSHEP and NEA-ESSD. Due

coordination with line ministries (MoFE and MoEWRI) will be made during such monitoring

work. The committee will include the representative of district level line agencies (DCC, DFO,

Agriculture Development Office, District Administration Office, Education and Health Office),

representative of CBOs.

IV) Panel of Expert

The project proponent will hire independent Panel of Expert (PoE) to make sure the mitigation

and monitoring works are implemented according to the plan. The PoE shall include

environmental and social expert with relevant experience in environment management of the

storage project. The experts will review the work conducted by AK-EMU, EM and GRU, Local

Consultative Forum (LCF) and Joint Monitoring team and provide their suggestions to Project

Management Office (PMO) for improvement if required based on the ground condition.

9.7.2.1 Project Level Arrangement

I) Project Management Office

Andhikhola Project Managenet Office (PMO) will be established under the organizational setup

of NEA. The Project Manager will have overall responsibility regarding the implementation of

EMP including others. S/he will be also responsible for acquiring necessary permits for forest

clearance from MoFE, land acquisition and compensation and others. The Project Manager will

be responsible to ensure the incorporation of EIA recommendations in tender document and

contract agreement and allocation of necessary budget for the implementation of EMP. S/he

shall be responsible for establishment of CDC, LCF and EM and GRU. The Project Manager

will be responsible to ensure the allocation of necessary budget for the implementation of the

program. S/he will be responsible for the overall coordination of the work and make final

decision on environmental, social and public concern issues.

Under the PMO, a Land Acquisition and Rehabilitation Section (LARS) will be established. The

in-charge of unit will be responsible for the acquisition of land and house, asset valuation and

verification, implementation of compensation and rehabilitation grant (house rent, transportation

and dislocation allowances) and coordination of the work with District and central level agencies

with regard to acquisition of private property. The officer in-charge of the unit will also work as

member of secretary of the CDC and member of LCF.

II) Project

The Project will take over all rights and responsibilities associated with the implementation of

EMP.

III) AKSHEP Environment Management Unit (AK-EMU)

A site based AK-EMU will be formed at the project site for day-to-day environmental monitoring

of the project, implementation of monitoring plan and coordination of work with concerned

stakeholders. The unit will function under the direct supervision of the Project Manager. The

following manpower will be deployed in AK-EMU.

• Environmental/Social Expert (Unit Chief)

• Environmentalist

• Socio-economist

• Civil Engineer

• Forestry/Wildlife Expert

• Field Supervisors

• Office Support staff



Figure 9-1: Organizational setup for Environmental Management and Monitoring

Where,

ESSD : Environment and Social Studies Department

EM and GRU : Environment Management and Grievances Redress Unit

LARS : Land Acquisition and Rehabilitation Section

MIS : Mitigation Implementation Section

MoEWRI : Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation

MoFE : Ministry of Forests and Environment

NEA : Nepal Electricity Authority

AK-EMU : Andhikhola Storage Hydroelectric Project-Environment Management Unit

PAF : Project Affected Family

PoE : Panel of Expert

PIC : Project Information Center

IV) Environment Management and Grievances Redress Unit

Environment Management (EM) and Grievances Redress Unit (GRU)will be established under

the Project Organizational setup. This office will be under direct supervision of PMO. This Unit

will have three sections namely Land Acquisition and Rehabilitation Section (LARS), Project

Information Center (PIC) and Mitigation Implementation Section (MIS). All three sections have

unique responsibility regarding the implementation of different action. LARS will be responsible

for the implementation of land acquisition and rehabilitation program whereas public disclosure

work will be conducted through PIC.

The MIS will implement mitigation measures proposed in Chapter-7 especially the program

proposed in biological and socio-economic environment. The MIS will coordinate the work

district level line agencies such as DFO, DDC, and District Land Revenue etc. The following

manpower will be deployed in EM and GRU.

• Environmental/Social Expert (Unit Chief)

• Community Liaison Officer

• Land Acquisition and Resettlement officer

• Office Assistant

NEA MD

Local people, PAF and District level agencies AK-EMU

Contractor

Consultant

Project Manager Local consultative forum

PoE Joint monitoring

Committee

EM and GRU

LARS PIC MIS

ESSD

MoFE,

MoEWRI,&

other line

agencies



• Supervisor

• Support Staff

V) Construction Contractor

The construction contractor will be responsible for the implementation of mitigation measures

specified as part of the contractors’ responsibility and compliance with the tender clauses. The

contractor will be responsible for the implementation of spoil disposal, waste management,

occupational safety, recruitment of local labour, health and sanitation measures, air, noise and

water quality protection measures, and others.

The contractor will also be responsible for developing Environmental Protection Plan (EPP) that

outlines its commitment in physical, biological and social environment in conjunction with the

EIA and tender documents. The plan will be approved by the Project Manager prior to its

implementation. In addition, the contractor will prepare contractors’ quarterly environmental

reports and submit them to the AK-EMU. The AK-EMU will be responsible for monitoring the

day to day environmental activities of the contractor.

VI) Construction Management/Supervision Consultant

The coordination of the compliance monitoring and mitigation program allocated under the

contractor will be the responsibility of Consultant. AK-EMU will work for the monitoring of

compliance issues and report to the Project Manager. The project manager delivers the written

message to the consultant for prompt action. He will have authority to stop work fully or

partially; delay in payment or otherwise penalize contractors for of non-performance of

environmental tender clauses. The consultant will also have responsibility for the approval of

EPP, and Solid Waste Management Plan prepared by Contractor on recommendation of AK-

EMU.

VII) Local Consultative Forum

A Local Consultative Forum (LCF) will be established to address the grievances regarding

compensation and other social and environmental issues. This committee will work as an

independent body and will have separate office within the project area. The logistic support

required for the operation of this office will be provided by the Project Manager Office. The

committee will be headed by social worker respected in the community, chairman of project

affected RM/Municipality, representative of principle of local high school, NGOs, AK-EMU, EM

and GRU and PAFs will be the member of committee. Committee will promptly act to resolve

the social and environmental issues related to project.

VIII) Compensation Determination Committee

A Compensation Determination Committee (CDC) will be formed to fix compensation for loss of

land and private property. The CDC will comprise of Chief District Officer (CDO), District Land

Revenue Officer, DCC representative, AKSHEP representative and PAP/HH representative.

The main functions of the CDC will be confirmation of entitled process,

assessment/Identification of PAP/HHs, compensation determination for land and private

property and grievance resolution.

9.7.3 Reporting Requirements

The AK-EMU will prepare and disseminate a monthly report containing information on the

implementation status of the environmental protection measures and monitoring results during

the construction period and quarterly, at least for the first two years, during the operation phase.

The unit will be responsible for sending the report to the Project Manager, NEA-ESSD. The



PMO will be responsible for the distribution of report to the concerned agencies. The AK-EMU

will prepare the following reports.

9.7.3.1 Pre construction Environmental Report

This report will be prepared prior to (just before) start of construction work. The report includes

the changes in baseline situation and site condition prior to start of actual construction work.

The EMP will be updated during this period as required.

9.7.3.2 Construction Phase Environmental Report

The construction phase environmental report will be prepared on quarterly basis and annual

environmental report will be prepared at the end of each calendar year. A final environmental

report will be prepared after the completion of the construction work. AK-EMU will be

responsible for the preparation of report. The report will be distributed to MoFE, MoEWRI,

DoED and district level line agencies.

9.7.3.3 Operation and Maintenance Phase Environmental Report

Operation and maintenance phase environmental report will be prepared for the two years

following the construction. AK-EMU will prepare this report for project. The report will describe

mitigation measures, problems and recommended solution. The report shall clearly identify

where operational mitigation measures are not being met or where mitigation efforts are

inadequate to protect natural and socio-economic resources. Unanticipated deleterious impacts

of the project will be identified. Measures to solve problem will be proposed and be funded

under the project annual operating budget. Environmental audit report will be prepared by

MoFE as per EPR, 2054.

9.8 Environmental Monitoring This section discusses the environmental monitoring programs likely to be associated with the

implementation of the EMP for AKSHEP. It also assists to ensure compliance with

environmental laws and in ameliorating or eliminating adverse impacts.

9.8.1 General Rationale for Environmental Monitoring

It is not enough to simply formulate mitigation measures and then assume there will be timely

and effective implementation. The need for monitoring of the Project's handling of its

procedures is equally valid for ecological, physical, construction methods and socio-economic

subject matters. This general rationale for carrying out serious monitoring is exemplified below

by discussing the socio-economic aspects of monitoring.Environmental monitoring is required

to ensure compliance of the mitigation and enhancement program, tender clauses related to

environment and social issues and to assess the actual impacts of these measures as well as

the emerging impacts during different phases of the project. For instance, the complexities of

dealing with individuals and communities at a fundamental economic, cultural and social level

necessitates that there is constant feedback between those charged with administering the

compensation schedule and the intended beneficiaries. Such monitoring should include, though

not necessarily be limited to, the following points:

• Disbursement of compensation should take place promptly and according to agreed

procedures/rates

• Community gain procedures are implemented and are in harmony with wishes of locals.

Local people are hired wherever possible as per the contractor's obligation (subject to

limitations enforced by skill levels, etc.)



• Rates of disease infection are monitored to highlight any increases, particularly in STDs

which may indicate that prevention and awareness campaigns need to be extended

When assigning environmental cost, the Project Proponent will make allowance to fund both

physical monitoring of the Project Proponent and its sub-contractors and also socio-economic

monitoring of the compensation process of individuals, families and communities affected.

Effective monitoring of the whole project cycle, particularly the resettlement related aspects, will

assist in the identification of unexpected problems/outcomes, and facilitate the correction of

these. Monitoring of socio-economic impact indicators should wherever possible be

participatory, involving local groups assessing their own situations as part of the process. This

will assist local communities raise their awareness about their situations and the chain of

causality bringing about their situations of relative gain or loss. This shared understanding will

help provide the instruments with which solutions may be devised.

Social monitoring should also be incorporated in the scope of work for construction

management, so that the local labor recruitment norms and requirements, their operating

conditions, rights and penalties as well as access and use of health and social service facilities

established in the Project's contracts can be closely observed in order to avoid inequities and

conflicts. Social monitoring is the most effective if local community leadership and

administration structures are involved in a process that is participatory, and provides recourse

to recognized authority structures. Involving community leaders and local authorities often

provides the means to resolve social problems identified in a direct, efficient and effective

manner.

Social monitoring of labor conditions and the impacts of Storage project and resettlement of

families should identify the particular benefits and losses accruing to women. Their position in

the socio-economic development of the area is crucial, and their responsibilities for family

welfare, most of the subsistence agricultural cycle, as well as minor income generating

activities should be verified through participatory monitoring exercises. Participatory monitoring

can facilitate the growth of confidence of participants simply by their acquisition of knowledge

about their situation. In addition, it permits participants to immediately initiate actions to improve

their circumstances, since they do not have to wait to learn the results of an external monitoring

mission as so commonly occurs. Feedback provision and involvement of local people in

decision-making are pre-requisites to the fostering of goodwill between them and the

construction agencies.

9.8.2 Objectives of Monitoring

Environmental monitoring is carried out with the following objectives;

• to ensure compliance of mitigation and enhancement program, tender clauses related to

environment and social issues,

• to assess the actual impacts of these measures as well as the emerging impacts during

different phases of the project,

• to comprehend environmental condition in project area prior to implementation of project;

• to ensure compliance status of implementation of mitigation measures and regulatory

standards;

• to ensure the effective compliance of tender clauses as per contract document;

• to check the effectiveness of mitigation and enhancement measures implemented by

different project parties; and

• to verify the accuracy of EIA predictions and assess the emerging and cumulative

environmental problems.



9.8.3 Requirements for Environmental Monitoring in Nepal

Monitoring is an essential aspect of environmental management. It consist collection of data to

measure environmental changes associated with construction and operation of the project.

MoEWRI/MoFE is the responsible agency for the environmental monitoring of energy sector

projects as per EPR, 2054. Likewise Rule 12 states that proponent shall comply with the

matters mentioned in EIA report. Manuals and Guideline prepared by line ministries are

available which define the monitoring mechanism.

The National EIA Guidelines (2050) and the EPR, 2054 specify, in general, the requirements for

environmental monitoring as needed to assess the actual effects and ensure compliance of the

implementation measures during project construction and operation. Identification and/or

quantification of the degree of impacts on the existing environment by developmental activities

enable the adoption of appropriate mitigation measures. This engenders the society’s ability to

reduce or minimize detrimental effects on the environment and human life and enhance

opportunities for improved standard of living. An Environmental Monitoring Plan will be required

to define the responsibilities for the monitoring, the parameters that will be monitored, where

the monitoring will take place and its frequency.

9.8.4 Site Inspections

ESSD will conduct site inspection prior to construction, AK-EMU during construction and at the

end of construction. The inspection will be coordinated with contractor(s).The site inspections

will be conducted as:

9.8.4.1 Initial Inspection

The initial inspection conducted during pre-construction will document the site condition just

before start of construction work. Necessary standard for construction and required

environmental control based on the available national and international practices will be

established. Visual documentation of the site and photographs will be taken during the

inspection.

9.8.4.2 Progress Inspection

The progress inspection during construction will document the compliance and impact

monitoring at particular site. The purpose of inspection will be early identification of

environmental and social problems and propose suitable remedial measures. The monitoring

will be conducted daily, weekly and monthly basis for the parameters like vegetation clearance,

spoil disposal, health and sanitation and safety satiation. The contractor will be formally notified

through letter of Project Manager/Supervising Consult for remedial action if any deficiency is

noted during monitoring.

9.8.4.3 Final Inspection

The final inspection will be conducted at the end of construction phase to document the

contractors compliance of tender clauses related to environment. The contractor will be given

written notice, if cases of non-compliance or partially compliance are found during inspection.

9.8.5 Environmental Monitoring Plans

Environmental monitoring is required to ensure compliance of the mitigation and enhancement

program, tender clauses related to environment and social issues and to assess the actual

impacts of these measures as well as the emerging impacts during different phases of the

project a monitoring program, required for the project to evaluate the application and

effectiveness of mitigation measures, is formulated in three phases.



9.8.5.1 Baseline Monitoring

The primary concern during this phase will be to implement field data collection programs

needed to enhance the knowledge of baseline conditions. Focus will be on the gathering of

scientific and sociological information needed to verify and update the data provided by this EIA

process. The land acquisition, compensation, rehabilitation measures will be disclosed to

people and common consensus will be made. It will be ensured that mitigation and monitoring

requirements associated with contractor are dually incorporated in tender document and

contract agreement.

9.8.5.2 Compliance Monitoring

The compliance monitoring will be conducted to monitor compliance of the proposed mitigation

measures and monitoring activities. The compliance monitoring will mainly focus on;

• compliance of the tender clause;

• compliance of the mitigation measures;

• timely and adequately implementation of Environmental Management Plan and

• overall environmental and social performance of the project.

In this monitoring, the GoN licensing entity (MoEWRI/DoED) oversees and ensures the

implementation of the required mitigation measures according to GoN guidelines and approved

mitigation plan. The AK-EMU will be delegated the day-to day responsibilities in this respect.

This monitoring will be conducted during project construction as well as operation phase.

9.8.5.3 Impact Monitoring

Impact monitoring will be carried out to assess actual level of impact due to project

construction. The impact monitoring includes:

• monitoring of the impacts of the project on physico-chemical, biological and

socioeconomic and cultural environment of the area;

• monitoring of the accuracy of the predicted impacts;

• identify the emerging impacts due to project activities or natural process and develop

remedial action; and

• monitoring of the effectiveness of mitigation measures

This monitoring will be conducted during project construction as well as operation phase. The

monitoring of the AKSHEP will include:

Physical Environment

• Watershed monitoring /Land use

• Stability of the area around the reservoir area and other project components

Biological Environment

• Forest Clearing

• Re-vegetation and slope stabilization

• Wildlife

Socio-economic and Cultural Environment

• Employment monitoring

• The economic status of the affected people and relocated people

• Adaptation of resettled households to their new homes and communities

• Public safety and security monitoring

• Health and sanitation monitoring

• Compensation

The full Environmental Management Program will be elaborated during the construction phase

of the project, reflecting the final design and alignment considerations made by the project.

Andhi Khola Storage HEP (180MW) Environment Management Plan


Table 9-7: Monitoring Plan and Schedule

Types Parameters Indicators Method Schedule Location

A. Baseline Monitoring

Physical

Environment

Landslides and erosion

Number of landslides/debris flows/

gully formation sites marked and

indicated in suitable maps

Direct observation Once

Dam site, intake site, disposal

site, access roads, reservoir

area, etc.

Air Quality TSPM, PM10, PM2.5, SO2 and NOx As per NAAQS, Nepal

Twice a year

(dry and wet

season)

Dam Site, Powerhouse site

Water Quality

Baseline monitoring of water quality

at 2 locations as per NDWQS

parameters

As per NDWQS standards

Twice a year

(dry and wet

season)

Dam site, Powerhouse site,

Noise Level Lmax,Lmin,Leq,L5,L10,L50,L90,L95 As per NNQS standards

Twice a year

(dry and wet

season)

Dam site, Powerhouse site,

Biological

Environment

Forest status in terms of

coverage and species

present

Tree species present, IVI of each

species, species of ground

vegetation, NTFPs, etc.

Quadrate sampling Before

construction

Rusidada CF, Dhuseni-

Bhalupani CF and Maridhunga

GMF

Wildlife and Wildlife

species

Wildlife in terms of species

present/reported, Protected

species, Crop raiding species

FGD, consultation with

local, and CFUGs,

Before

construction

Reservoir area and

Powerhouse site

Aquatic fauna Presence of fish species and

aquatic life Cast net sampling,

Before

construction

Upstream and downstream of

dam and powerhouse,

Socioeconomic

and Cultural

Environment

Settlement/

infrastructure

Increase in settlements,

infrastructure, migration

Discussion with local

people, observation

Project affected

RMs/Municipality

Socio-economic/ cultural

baseline

Update socio-economic/ cultural

baseline

Discussion with local

people, observation, review

Project affected areas

B. Impact Monitoring

B.1 Construction Phase

Physical

Environment

Landslide and erosion

Number of landslides/debris

flows/gully formation sites marked

and indicated in suitable maps

Direct Observation Twice a year


site, internal access roads,

reservoir area, etc.

Air Quality TSPM, PM10, PM2.5, SO2 and NOx As per National Ambient Twice a year Dam Site, Powerhouse site




Air Quality Standards,

Nepal

Water Quality

Monitoring of water quality at 2

locations as per NDWQS

parameters

As per NDWQS standards Twice a year Dam site, Powerhouse site,

Noise Quality Lmax,Lmin,Leq,L5,L10,L50,L90,L95 As per NNQS standards Twice a year Dam site, Powerhouse site,

Biological

Environment

Forest and vegetation

loss

Number of tree species cleared and

loss of forest area and NTFPs

Observation and record

inspection Daily

Impacted CFs and GM forest of

project area

Hunting and poaching of

wildlife Record of animal hunting FGD monthly Settlement of the project area

Disturbances to aquatic

fauna

Number of fish catch, fish type

available FGD monthly

Upstream and downstream of

dam and powerhouse,

Socioeconomic

and Cultural

Environment

Public Health

Types of disease and incidence of

disease in the project workers and

local community

Meeting and discussion

with local health posts and

district hospitals

Quarterly Project affected

RMs/Municipality

Land Acquisition Acquisition of land, lease of land

and temporary disturbances in land

Cross checking the list of

compensation Quarterly

Area of project components and

leased area

House Acquisition Relocation of house, compensation,

use of construction material etc.

Observation of new

construction area, cross

checking the list of

compensation etc.

Quarterly Affected area and relocation

sites

Crop

Actual damage to standing crop or

loss of cropping season for

particular area

Observation and

discussion Weekly

Area of project components and

leased area

Social and Cultural

Practices

Likely disturbance in traditional

cultural ways

Observation and

discussion Quarterly

Project affected

RMs/Municipality

Economy Local employment, rental, sell of

consumable goods

Meeting and discussion

with local communities Quarterly Project affected area

B.2 Operation Phase

Physical

Environment





Direct Observation Once a year




Air Quality TSPM, PM10, PM2.5, Lead,SO2,NOx As per NAAQS, Nepal Once a year Dam Site, Camp Site, Access




Benzene, Ozone, CO% road site

Water Quality



parameters

As per NDWQS standards Once a year Upstream and downstream of

dam and powerhouse,

Noise Quality Lmax,Lmin,Leq,L5,L10,L50,L90,L95 As per NNQS standards Once a year Dam site and powerhouse area

Biological

Environment

Disturbances to aquatic

fauna

Number of fish catch, fish type

available FGD

Once a six

month Settlement of the project area

Socioeconomic

and Cultural

Environment

Local employment Priority for the local employment Cross checking the list of

employment Annual Project site

Economic status

Changes in economic condition of

local people due to withdrawal of

economic opportunity

Interview and discussion Annual PAFs

C. Compliance Monitoring

C.1 Construction Phase

Physical

Environment





Direct Observation Twice a year




Air Quality TSPM, PM10, PM2.5, Lead,SO2,NOx

Benzene, Ozone, CO%

As per National Ambient

Air Quality Standards,

Nepal

Twice a year Dam site and powerhouse area

Water Quality



parameters

As per NDWQS standards Twice a year Upstream and downstream of

dam and powerhouse,

Noise Quality Lmax,Lmin,Leq,L5,L10,L50,L90,L95 As per NNQS standards Twice a year Dam site and powerhouse area

Biological

Environment

Approval of forest

clearance Cabinet decision Record inspection

At the

beginning of

construction

-

Tree and vegetation

felling Forest area cleared Visual inspection

During

construction Affected CFs and GM forest

Increase demand of fuel Fuel used by labor Visual inspection and

enquiry to labor

Once a

month Project labor camp

Hunting, poaching Involvement of labor force Meeting and interaction Once a month Project impact area

Compensatory plantation Species, number and area of Record and site inspection Once a year Plantation site




plantation

Habitat loss and

degradation

a) Awareness campaign

b) Amount of water release

downstream

c) Physical water augmentation

measures

d) Fish hatchary operation

Visual inspection, record

inspection and community

meeting

Once a

month Project impact area

NTFPs exploitation

a) NTFPs collection status and

type of involvement

b) NTFPs collection and

management plan

Community meeting and

visual inspection

Once a


Fire Hazard

a) Forest fire incidences

b) Fire on labor camp and other

project facilities

c) Awareness and training to

workforce

d) Provision of fire fighting

Community meeting and

record inspection

Once a


Socio-

economic and

Cultural

Environment

First Aid Availability of first Aid Observation and record

review

Periodic as per

construction

schedule

Project site

Losing of life and

disability

Compensation to losing of life and

disability Interview/observation Periodic Project site

Occupational safety

Adequacy of occupational safety

measures (helmets, boots, warning

signs etc.)

Interview/observation

Periodic as per

construction

schedule

Project site

Implementation of

compensatory plantation Plantation work as per the plan Observation Periodic Plantation sites

Implementation of

Resettlement and

Rehabilitation

Assistance

Resettlement and rehabilitation

works

Observation and

discussion Periodic PAFs and vulnerable HHs

Andhi Khola Storage HEP (180MW) Public Consultation


9.8.6 Monitoring Location and Agencies Responsible for Monitoring

Environmental monitoring will be carried out at all the project impact areas in a regular or

intermittent schedule. The schedule of monitoring will be daily, quarterly, half-yearly and yearly

depending on the parameters and type of monitoring. The detail of monitoring parameters,

schedule, method and location for physical, biological and socioeconomic and cultural

environment during construction and operation phases are presented in the monitoring plan

and schedule. In general, observation, inspection, review of official records, interview, counting

and/or measurements will be used for monitoring. Furthermore, scientific methods will be used

for the monitoring requirements, where and whenever necessary. Project will have the prime

responsibility for implementation of monitoring program. MoFE, MoEWRI, DoED, NGOs, CBOs

and local bodies will also be involved during the monitoring.

9.8.7 Monitoring Cost

The total cost for the monitoring activities has been estimated as NRs 141,740,760.

Table 9-8: Environmental Monitoring Cost

S.N. Item No. of

Persons Man-month

Rate/Month (NRs.)

Amount (NRs.)

A. Pre-construction Phase

1 Manpower Office (1 time)

Field (2 times)

Total

Senior Environmental Expert

1 2 1 54030 216,120

Team Leader 1 8 4 47380 758,080

Environmental Expert 1 8 4 43880 702,080

Sociologist/Economist 2 8 4 43880 1,404,160

Civil Engineer 1 8 4 38180 610,880

Support Staff 2 8 4 28200 902,400

Sub-total 4,593,720

2 Out of Pocket Expenses

TA/DA 10 man/month for 2 year 432,000

Field Assistant 2 man/month for 2 year 2,707,200

Transportation/fuel/ maintenance/ hire

1,200,000

Report Production 100,000

Miscellaneous 100,000

Sub –total 4,539,200

Total of Pre-construction Phase 9,132,920

B. Construction Phase (60 months)

1 Manpower

Senior Environmental Expert

1 24 12 54030 2,593,440

Coordinator 1 40 20 74380 5,950,400

Civil Engineer 1 40 20 38180 3,054,400

Environmentalist 1 40 20 38180 3,054,400

Socio-economist 2 40 20 38180 6,108,800

Liaison Officer 1 40 20 38180 3,054,400

Support Staff 2 40 20 28200 4,512,000

Sub –total 9 28,327,840

From Outsourcing

Environmental Safeguard 1 60 240000 14,400,000



Officer

Social Safeguard Officer 2 60 240000 28,800,000

Support Staff Site Office-1 2 60 40000 4,800,000

Database Expert 1 60 240000 14,400,000

Sub-total 62,400,000

Sub-totle 1 90,727,840

2 Out of Pocket Expense

TA/DA 30 man/month for 5 year 3,240,000

Fuel 50,000 per month 3,000,000

Vehicle Purchase/ hire/ maintenance

1 vehicle purchase (4WD) 12,000,000

Report Production 2 report per month 600,000

Office Rent (Site Office) 3,000,000

Computer and Printer Computer and printer purchase for 7 staffs

(excluding support staffs) 840,000

Electricity, Drinking Water and Communication

Rs 200,000 LS per year 1,000,000

Community Consultation Single Meeting in affected Municipality every

month 1,200,000

Site office Furnishing LS 1,000,000

Office Accessories and Operation Cost

LS 200,000 per year 1,000,000

Institutional Strengthening Training and visit to office staffs 10,000,000

Miscellaneous 5,000,000

Sub-Total 2 41,880,000

Total of Construction Phase Monitoring 132,607,840

Grand Total (Pre-construction and construction monitoring) 141,740,760

9.9 Environmental Audit Framework The Environmental Audit (EA) shall be carried out to assess environmental impacts, accuracy

of predictions, the effectiveness of mitigation measures and the monitoring plan. It is intended

that EA should relate actual impacts with predicted impacts which help in evaluating the

accuracy and adequacy of EIA predictions.

9.9.1 General Rationale for Environmental Audit

The term audit has been transferred from the language of finance to EIA as it effectively

describes the process of examination and assessment of performance necessary in the

analysis of overall efficiency and target attainment, whilst also helping to ensure that mistakes

identified in the present are not destined for repetition in future.

The role of the environmental auditor, therefore, is to identify environmental change arising

from the Project and to assess the effectiveness of the mitigation measures adopted,

suggesting additional measures where appropriate. In addition, auditing of the Project will

indicate where initial predictive methods were weak or environmental knowledge lacking, thus

indicating areas where further research or attention to detail may be necessary. Additionally,

close liaison with the implementing agency will secure valuable insights into the EIA process

and strengthen the capacity of the agency. Thus, an environmental audit provides snapshot of

environmental situation, compliance or impact with documented evidences. Besides fulfilling the

formal requirements environmental audit is a good tool to promote environmental best practices

and procedure. In general environmental auditing is done with the following aim:

• assessing compliance with formal requirement;



• facilitating management control of environmental practices;

• promoting good environmental management and minimizing the risks; and

• establishing the performance baseline for an environment management system.

9.9.2 Environmental Audit in Nepal

Environment Protection Rules, 1997, Article 14 specifies that an EA is required after two years

of project operation. Auditing refers to a general class of environmental investigations that are

used to verify past and current environmental performance. In the context of the environmental

management of a project in Nepal, environment impact auditing assesses the actual

environmental impacts, accuracy of predictions, effectiveness of environmental impact

mitigation and enhancement measures, and functioning of pre-construction, construction and

operation phase monitoring mechanisms.

9.9.3 Types of Auditing

The National EIA Guidelines, 1993 has stated the following types of audit that may be carried

out for large scale development project.

a) Decision Point Auditing: Examines the effectiveness of environmental impact assessment

as a decision-making tool.

b) Implementation Auditing: Ensures that the condition of contract has been fulfilled.

c) Performance Auditing: Studies the work of agencies associated with project management.

d) Participatory Auditing: Ensure that stakeholder participation and expectation has been

met.

e) Predictive Technique Auditing: Examines environmental changes arising from project

implementation.

f) EIA Procedure Auditing: Examines critically the methods and approaches of the auditing

assessment procedure adopted during the EIA.

9.9.4 Agencies Responsible for Auditing

The National EIA Guidelines specify that EA must be carried out by the government agencies

approving the project with the assistance of relevant government agencies and NGOs as

necessary. The guideline also stated that result obtained from the EA should be made available

to the project proponent and concerned agencies. The MoFE will carry out environmental

impact audit of the project. Local NGOs may also be entrusted to carry out the task, if they are

engaged to do so by the government. The auditing shall focus on impacts of forest clearance,

compensatory plantation, geological condition, status of affected people, land-use pattern,

infrastructure development, etc.

9.9.5 Auditing Parameters, Schedule and Agencies to be consulted

The detail of auditing parameters, schedule, location, method, indicator and agencies to be

consulted are presented in following tables. The environmental auditing shall include but not be

limited to following tasks.

• Changes in physico- chemical, biological, socioeconomic and cultural environment

baseline condition after the project construction;

• Accuracy of the predicted impacts;

• Magnitude of the predicted impacts;

• Effectiveness of the proposed mitigation measures;

• Compliance of the recommendations and findings of EIA report;

• Compliance of the tender clauses;

• Identification of number and area on non-compliance; and



• Effectiveness of compliance monitoring system.

Table 9-9: Environmental audit parameters, schedule and agencies to be consulted

Parameters Method Indicator Location Sources Agencies to be

consulted

Physical environment

Water quality

Collection of

sample,

analysis and

comparison

with baseline

Temperature, pH,

turbidity, TSS, DSS,

hardness, chloride,

ammonia, iron,

calcium, DO, BOD

and COD etc

Reduced

flow zone

and

powerhouse

sites

Analytical

data

Land use Observation

and interview

Changes in land use

and reclaim

temporary sites

Construction

yards,

storage area,

temporary

camp

concrete

batching

plant etc

Local people

and

observation

Disposal of

construction

spoil and

waste material

Observation

and interview

Initiated erosion and

impact on aesthetic

value, degradation

of land and water

quality

Designated

sites

Local people

and

observation

Excavation

and slope

cutting

Observation

and interview

Initiated land

erosion, local

drainage pattern

Audits and

component

roads

Local people

and

observation

Erosion and

slope stability

Observation

and

measurement

Eroded and unstable

areas on natural

slopes

Project sites Observation

Structural

damages

Observation

and interview

Types of damage,

compensation and

other rehabilitation

works

Project

components

Local people

and

observation

Affected

RM/Municipility

Bioengineering

Effectiveness

of

bioengineering

measures to

stabilize

unstable

slopes

Observation

Project

Component

road

Observation

and

discussion

with local

people & line

agencies

Biological environment

Loss of forest Examination

of forest

Number of stumps of

cut trees

Adit and

project

component

road

Local people

and

observation

Plantation Observation

Status of

compensatory

plantation

Plantation

sites

Field survey &

discussion

Wildlife Interview with

local people

Wildlife hunting and

poaching

Forest area

near the

project site

Local people



Observation

and interview

Frequency of the

birds and mammals

seen in the project

area

Project area Local people

Fisheries

Sampling

Species of fish

occurrence and

abundance as

compared with pre

project

Reduced

flow zone

and

powerhouse

Local people

Interview Use of explosive,

electric rod and nets Project site Local people

Socioeconomic and cultural environment

Employment

opportunity

Analysis of

records,

interview

Number of local

people employed in

project constriction

Project site

Records

from

contractor,

Consultant,

NEA and

local

people

Affected

RM/Municipility

Analysis of

records,

interview

Number of women in

workforce Project sites

Records

from

contractor,

Consultant

and NEA

Trade and

commerce

Review of

Records

Number of shops

increased/decreased

during construction

and number of

shops still in

operation

Jagat,

Singati,

Manthali etc

Records

and local

people

Inquiries and

interview

Rental of houses

and land space

before, during and

after construction

Local area Local

tenants

Compensation Survey and

interview

Payment of

compensation for

the acquisition of

private assets & use

of compensation

received

Project area

and out of

the area

Local

people

Occupational

and safety

hazards

Records and

interview

Types and number

of accidents

occurred during

construction

Project sites

Records

from

contractor,

Consultant

and local

people

Affected

RM/Municipility

Records and

interview

Facility of first aid,

emergency services

provided

Project sites

Records

from

contractor,

Consultant

and local

people

Public health Records and

interview

Cases of

communicable

Project sites,

health posts

Medical

records

District hospital,

local health



diseases and hospitals from local

health

posts

posts

Mitigation

measures and

enhancement

programs

Records and

interview

Implementation

status of mitigation

program as per EIA

report

Project area

Records

from

contractor,

Consultant,

NEA, local

people and

review of

monitoring

Note: TSS: Total Suspended Solids, RM: Rural Municipility, DSS: Dissolved Suspended Solids,

MOFSC: Ministry of Forest and Soil Conservation, DO: Dissolved Oxygen, BOD: Biological

Oxygen Demand, DFO: Division Forest Office, COD: Chemical Oxygen Demand.

9.9.6 Environmental Auditing Schedule and Cost

Environmental Audit will be carried out after two years of project completion. The total cost for

environmental auditing is estimated to be NRs 430,440.

Table 9-10: Environmental Auditing Cost

S. No. Manpower Requirement Man months Rate (NRs) Amount (NRs)

1 Team Leader (Env. Expert) 2 38,180 76,360

2 Environmentalist 2 38,180 76,360

3 Civil Engineer 2 38,180 76,360

4 Socio-economist 2 38,180 76,360

5 Transportation Cost LS 1,00,000

6 Data Analysis LS 50,000

7 Report Preparation LS 75,000

Total 430,440

9.9.7 Environmental Mitigation, Enhancement, CSR and Management Plan Cost

Total environmental mitigation, enhancement, CSR and management plan cost is

17,647,413,483/-.including land cost which is 31.51 % of the total project cost.

Table 9-11: Cost Estimate for Environmental Mitigation, Enhancement and CSR

S. N. Environment Description Amount (NRs) Remarks

1 Physical Mitigation 26,00,00,000 Table 7-1

1 Biological Mitigation and

enhancement 103,578,373

Including

NRs.28,399,573 land

cost

2 Social

Mitigation 16,553,696,410

Including NRs.

11,551,268,220 land

cost

Enhancement 287,967,500

CSR 30,00,00,000

3 Monitoring and Auditing Cost 142,171,200

Total including land cost 17,647,413,483

Total excluding land cost 6,067,745,690

Total Project Cost (NRs) USD 498.496 Million

% of Environmental mitigation, enhancement

& CSR cost including land cost

31.51 % of the total

project cost

% of Environmental mitigation, enhancement

& CSR cost excluding land cost

10.83 % of the total

project cost



10 PUBLIC CONSULTATION

10.1 Introduction The public consultation process involve visiting the areas affected by the proposed storage

project, identifying the stakeholders, consulting with them with the objectives of the project,

gathering their views and opinions regarding the projects. The involvement of the public from

the conceptual stage of the project is essential for the success of any development activities.

Public consultation and information disclosure from the beginning is also important to reduce

misunderstandings and successful implementation of a project. It is a process of both

information giving and listening issues and concerns of public for planning and successful

implementation of the project with full support of the stakeholders. Therefore, the project has

given high emphasis to public consultation and information disclosure throughout the EIA

process.

The National EIA Guidelines states that public involvement is one of the main parameters for

the success of any development project. The EPR, 2054 also makes it mandatory for holding

one public hearing in the affected Rural Municipality or Municipality. This section discusses and

outlines the consultation carried out with the local people and other stakeholders. It also gives

all the government and the public consultations that have taken place during the course of the

EIA.

Similarly, as per EPR, 2054 public involvement is mandatory during the Scoping for EIA of any

proposal. The EPR, 2054 specifies that "In regards to any proposal requiring EIA, the

proponent shall publish a notice in any national level daily newspaper, affixing the notice in

Rural Municipality or Municipality, where the proposal is to be implemented, as well as the

schools, hospitals, health posts and concerned individuals or institutions of that area, to offer in

writing their suggestions concerning the possible impact of the implementation of the proposals

on the environment within a 15 day time period". It further states after the publication of the

notice "anyone who wishes to offer his opinion and suggestion in that connection may offer his

opinion and suggestions to the concerned proponent within 15 days from the date of publication

of such notice…" The object of this rule is to inform the public of proposed project development

and provide a reasonable time to gather their concerns, comments suggestions and

recommendations concerning potential project impacts.

10.2 Approaches for Public Involvement

10.2.1 Public Consultation during Scoping Phase

A public notice was published in national daily newspaper "Gorkhapatra" on 2074/05/20 for the

scoping study. The main objectives of the notice were:

• To inform the public about the project itself and the area to be affected

• To request the concerned people, organization, NGOs and RMs/Municipality to send

comments and suggestions regarding the project.

After the publication of the notice, the team visited for the Scoping exercise. The suggestions,

comments and information received from all the affected people, organizations, NGOs and

RMs/Municipality offices during the Scoping phase have been incorporated while preparing the

report.16 meeting along with 181 participants were involve in that meeting.



Table: 10-1 Date, Location and Number of Participants in Stakeholders Meetings during scoping

Phase

S.N. Date PAA Type of Meeting

Settlement/ Ward No.

No. of Participants

Male Female Total

1 2074/05/21 Rambha RM CM Hungi-1 8 1 9

2 2074/05/24 Waling* CM Thumpokhara-2 8 2 10

3 2074/05/23 Galyang* CM Tulsibhangang-11

4 4 8

4 2074/05/25 Galyang* CM Nibuwakharka-5 14 1 15

5 2074/05/24 Galyang* CM Palakot-9 5 4 9

6 2074/05/23 Galyang* CM Jagatradavi-9 7 3 10

7 2074/05/23 Galyang* CM Nibuwakharka-4,Motichaur

9 13 22

8 2074/05/22 Galyang* CM Jagatradavi-8,Balpuk

3 3 6


10 2074/05/22 Galyang* CM Nibuwakharka,Dudichaur

6 6 12




14 2074/05/22 Galyang* CM GalyangBazaar 10 1 11



Total 131 50 181

10.2.2 Public Consultation and Participation during EIA

Public consultation during EIA involved formal and informal discussions with a range of district

and local level stakeholders. HH survey of the directly project affected HHs and informal

meetings/consultations with key stakeholders of the project area were used as the main tool of

community consultation and information dissemination for preparation the EIA report. During

the consultations, the participants were requested to express their views, concerns/issues

regarding the project as well as they were informed regarding the project and its activities.

Information such as project purpose, project type, impact area, likely impacts and potential

opportunities due to project implementation were provided to the people during the

consultation. Checklists and questionnaire were developed to facilitate the KIIs and HH survey.

During the field survey, emphasis was placed on consultation with affected communities and

people living in adjoining areas, to inform them about the proposed project and give them an

opportunity to express their views. 30 meeting along with 664 participants were involve in EIA

phase meeting.

Table: 10-2 Date, Location and Number of Participants in Stakeholders Meetings during EIA phase

S.N. Date PAA Type of Meeting

Settlement/ Ward No.

No. of Participants

Male Femal

e Total

1 2076/04/15 Waling* CM Waling bazaar 5 0 5

2 2076/04/20 Waling* CM Gaharkhola-13 7 0 7

3 2076/05/08 Galyang CM Tallo Gayang-3

56 11 67

4 2076/05/08 Galyang FGD Tallo Gayang-3

- 22 22 Aadhikhola ama samuha

5 2076/05/08 Galyang FGD Chinnepani-3 9 6 15 Believers Eastern Church



6 2076/05/09 Galyang CM Manahari kharka-7

11 2 13 Ward office

7 2076/05/09 Galyang CM Galyang-7/8 10 0 10

8 2076/05/09 Galyang CM Galyang-3 15 0 15 Chirag Sec. school

9 2076/05/09 Galyang CM Galyang-3 5 6 11 Bhanubhakta sec. school

10 2076/05/09 Galyang CM Galyang-3 9 5 14 Bhattarai phat Sichai Upabhokta sameeti

11 2076/05/09 Galyang CM Galyang-3 7 8 15 Bhu.pu. Sainik sec. school

12 2076/05/10 Galyang CM Chharak-4 9 6 15

13 2076/05/10 Waling CM Waling-13 7 4 11 Ward office

14 2076/05/10 Galyang CM Tallo Galyang-3

15 0 15 Shiv Mandir sameeti

15 2076/05/10 Galyang FGD Tallo Galyang-3

0 45 45 Manab Samanta ama samuha

16 2076/05/10 Galyang CM Motichaur-4 36 15 51

17 2076/05/11 Galyang CM Motichaur-4 2 4 6 Janahit basic sechool

18 2076/05/11 Galyang FGD Ilunga-2 0 15 15 Adhikhola sakriya ama samuha

19 2076/05/11 Galyang FGD Ilunga-2 0 11 11 Radha Krishna ama samuha

20 2076/05/11 Galyang CM Ilunga-2 44 10 54

21 2076/05/11 Galyang CM Ilunga-2 3 6 9 Radha Krishna basic school

22 2076/05/11 Galyang CM Devisthan-7 11 0 11 Chakra devi temple

23 2076/05/12 Kaligandaki

RM CM Jaipate-5 59 16 75

24 2076/05/12 Waling CM Bayatari-13 7 0 7 Bhu pu sainik shantipriya academy

25 2076/05/13 Kaligandaki CM Jaipate-5 9 6 15 Jaipate Birendra sec. school

26 2076/05/14 Waling CM Bayatari-13 44 4 48

27 2076/05/17 Galyang CM Galyang bazaar

14 4 18

28 2076/05/17 Galyang CM Chiuri-8 12 0 12

29 2076/05/17 Galyang CM Garandi rop-2 36 8 44

30 2076/05/20 Waling CM Bayatari-13 8 0 8 Nepal magar aitihasik sangralaya

Total 450 214 664

10.2.3 RM/Municipality Level Meetings

16 meeting in scoping phase and 30 meeting in EIA phase were conducted in the project area.

The main objectives of these meetings were to collect the issues/concerns of local people

regarding the project as well as to inform the local people about the proposed Project. The

participants of the meetings were project-affected families, farmers, businessperson,

jobholders, wage labors and students of the project affected RMs/Municipality. The minutes of

the meetings are given in Appendix D.



10.2.4 Public Hearing

10.2.4.1 Introduction

During the EIA report preparation, Public Hearing in the project affected area is mandatory. The

EPR 1997 Chapter 2, Rule 7 (2) also specifies that "… whilst preparing the report of EIA, the

proponent shall organize a Public Hearing about the proposal is to be implemented and collect

opinions and suggestions." The object of this rule is to assure full public involvement through

the solicitation of opinions and suggestions concerning the contents of the EIA Report. The

interim constitution of Nepal also guarantees citizen of right to information of public interest.

Environment Protection Act 1997 and Environment Protection Rules 1997 further elaborate

right of stakeholders to participate in EIA process.

The public hearing program of ASHEP was organized in the project site at Shree Bhanubhakta Acharya

Secondary School, Galang Municipility-3 of Syangja district on Paush 05, 2076 (December-21, 2019).

The program was chaired by Mr. Bhupa Raj Adhikari, Mayer of Galang Municipility. Mr. Delip Kumar

Khand, Mayer of Waling Municipility, Mr Pritam Lal Pradhan- Project director of ASHEP, Mukti Pathak -

member of parlimant, Krishna Prasad Dhakal–Joint Sectorary of Ministry of Industry,Tourism and Forest

Gandaki provenance,Sabratri Koirila – joint precedent of Kaligandaki Rural Municipility,The

Representative from District Coordination Committee, Syangja and NEA-ESSD participated in the

program. Other participants included the precedent from diffrernt wards of Rural municipality and

Municipility, Principle of Shree Bhanubhakta Acharya Secondary School,Precedent of AKAWA, local

leaders, Aama samuha, local youth clubs, and journalist of local media. Besides, local communities and

the members from affected families had also participated in the program. The list of the participants of

the public hearing is given in Annex F-I.

Table 10-3: Number of Participants at the Public Hearing Program

District Municipility Male Female Total

Syangja Galang 514 172 686

10.2.4.2 Objectives of the Program

The objectives of the program are:

• To inform the local people, line agencies, NGOs and other stakeholder on the technical and

environmental aspects of the proposed project.

• To update the local people about the present status and on-going activities of the project.

• To provide an opportunity to all the stakeholders and communities in the proposed project area and to

raise issues and concerns pertaining to the project.

• To revise the Draft EIA report based on the concerns of local people.

10.2.4.3 Approach and Methodology

Following methodologies were used to conduct the Public Hearing program;

• Preparation of Brochure

A brochure with relevant information about the EIA findings of the proposed project was

prepared in Nepali Language and distributed to the participants of the public hearing program.

The brochure contained the relevant information about the background of the project, its

technical salient features and brief environmental description

. The environmental description includes brief baseline condition of the project area, potential

beneficial and adverse impacts, proposed mitigation measures, environmental management

plan as well as environmental monitoring and auditing of the project.

• Publication of Notice

A notice regarding the program was published in district level newspaper Annex VIII-3 and

broadcasted from local FM-Radio.

• Request letter to Line Agencies



Request letters were sent to the concerned government line agencies for their participation in

the program. The date, venue and the time of the program was also mentioned in the letter.

These letters were sent to the concerned government agencies and ministries including, MoFE,

MoEWI, DoED, affected RM, affected municioility,DCC etc.

• Arrangement of Program

Shree Bhanubhakta Acharya Secondary School, Galang Municipility-3 of Syagja district was

selected as the site/venue for public hearing program to ease the people to participate from the

project affected areas. One team was deployed with the coordination of ESSD, to the site for

necessary arrangement for the program.

• Registration of Participants

The participants were requested to register their name, address and occupations in

preformatted table at the registration desks. The brochure were distributed to the participants

and asked them to take their seat.

• Recording of the Program

Audio and vedio of the public hearing was recorded.

Response to the Queries

The queries and suggestions from the public were obtained through written slip Annex F-II The

project representative and ESSD-staffs responded the queries and concerns of the participants.

10.2.4.4 Description of the program

The Public Hearing program was conducted as mentioned as below.

• The Public Hearing program started at 12:30 Pm on Paush 05, 2074 (December 21, 2019)

at Shree Bhanubhakta Acharya Secondary School, Galang Municipility-3 of Syangja district

• Chairing the Dais by the Chairperson, Chief Guest and other respected Guests ;

• Presenting the finding of the EIA and objectives of the program by ESSD staff

• Views of the representatives, governmental line agencies, locals of affected communities

• Responses to the queries and Closing Speech.

The EIA presentation informed the local people about the major impacts of the project,

mitigation measures, compensation procedures and enhancement measures to be taken to

cope those impacts.Following the presentation, Mr Lal bahadur Thapa ,Rambir Gurung,Mahesh

Bhattrai,Padam Prasad,Mukti Phatak,Ramakanta Phatak,Mahendra Shrestha,Lokendra Thapa

Magar,Indira Luital,Hari Kala Pathak,lakhnath Bhattrai,Narayan Prasad Gyawali,Ram Bahadur

GhartiBirendra Bhattrai,Taknath Naupane,Arjun Prasad shrestha, members of the civil society

and representative from affected groups expressed their view and concerns.

They encouraged the local people to take benefit of the opportunities given by the project. At

the end of the program, question and answer session was held where the people actively

participated. Representative of PAFs had strongly expressed their voices. They stated that they

fully support the project but would want full consideration from project side to address their

demand regarding compensation. Inquiries and responses of the local people mostly focused

on:



Table 10-4 : Issues Raise by Stakeholders during Public Hearing

S.N Major Area of

Concern

Issues Raised Remarks

1 Land Acquisition

and Compensation

• Compensation of land as per the actual rate.

Section 7.8.1.1,Table

7-4 and 7-5

2 Employment

Opportunity

• Employment to local people.

Section 5.6.1.1

3 Local

Development

• Control out-movement for foreign employment.

• Instead of giving compensation and displacing people, project should construct planned settlement for displaced people.

• Ring road, Bridges and other infrastructures need to be constructed in remaining settlement.

Section 5.6

Section 7.8.1.7

Section 7.8.1.

Section 7.1.3.

4 Health and Safety Dam break risk associated with reservoir

5 Skills

Development

Training

Skills development training to displaced

people.

Section 7.10.

6 Others • Tourism,

• Rumor of the project has completely stop the development of the Lower Galyang Bazzar, So, Responsible authority must make clear that whether this project will built or not?

• Geology of the region is said to be weak, so project must make clear on this, whether this project is feasible or not owning to geology.

• Fate of Andhikhola Irrigation Project and dependent farmers.

• Water to be given to farmers for irrigation irrespective of HP capacity.

• Share to be given to local people as compensation.

• Primary Block of the Bhanubhakta Ma. Vi. Is within the proposed reservoir area in Lower Galyang, The project should buy land near by Ma.Vi. block of the school and construct building.

Section 5.6.1.10.

Section 5.6.1.9.

The project proponent delivered their best efforts to address the queries and concerns of the

participants of the program. The proponent also assured the best and effective ways or

methods in order to minimize the negative impacts and maximize the beneficial/positive impacts

of the project. The local people expressed their emphasis on the importance of cooperation and

coordination for smooth implementation of the project. At the end of the program, the Chairman

(Bhupa raj Adhikari) presented his closing remarks.



Local people were positive towards the implementation of the project as they are not against

the development; however, they want to address their demand regarding compensation to be

addressed genuinely from the project side. The proponent is also concerned about genuine

issues of the public. Recommendation letter from Rural municipality and Municipilitys is

attached in Annex –G.

Andhikhola Storage HEP (180 MW) Conclusion


11 CONCLUSION

The EIA study has identified environmental and social issues of the proposed AKSHEP and

predicted likely adverse and beneficial impacts due to its implementation. The project requires a

large area of land belonging to a number of families. Therefore, land acquisition, resettlement

and its consequences are the most critical and serious issues affecting socio-economic

conditions of local people. Physical and biological impacts are moderate and within acceptable

limits. On other hand, proposed project is a big opportunity not only to local area but also to

Gandaki province and Nepal.

11.1 Physical Environment

• The project will acquire a total area of 913.00 ha of land permanently for the project structures. Moreover, about 52.82 ha land will be required for temporary use during the project construction. Land use change, land erosion, change in natural river flow regime, air, water and noise pollution, and others are likely physical impacts in the project area due to the project construction.

• Various preventative and corrective measures have been proposed for mitigation. Most of them should be integrated in BoQ of contract document of the project.


• The major impacts on vegetation and forest resources include the loss of 8192 trees of different species from 17.76 ha of National forest land. In addition, 221 thousands trees including fodder and fruits tree need to be felled from private land. Compensatory plantation and training on forest management to the CF users have proposed as mitigation options.

• Release of 10 percentage of minimum monthly flow will be provisioned at the dam spill way to ensure the integrity of the aquatic ecosystem in the downstream dewatered stretch of Aandhikhola. Fish hatchery program is proposed to maintain fish population in Aandhikhola after the dam construction.

11.3 Socio-Economic & Cultural Environment

• In terms of the loss of land acquisition, 1200 households will be affected due to the implementation of the project.

• At the time of EIA field survey, 712 private structures (house, shed etc) and 24 community structures (school, temple, bridge etc) needs to be relocated from the proposed reservoir area.

• The proposed project will affect existing Aandhikhola Hydroelectric Plant (9.4 MW) and irrigation system which are using water from Aandhikhola.

The total environmental cost including compensation to private land and properties is estimated

to be NRs 17,647,413,483/- The total environmental cost amounts to approximately 31.51% of

the total project cost (NRs 56 Billion). The EIA study concludes that the proposed Aandhikhola Storage Hydroelectric Project (180 MW) shall have significant impacts on socio-economic & cultural environment, as well some impacts on physical and biological environment of the project area, but all these impacts can be mitigated and compensated. thus this project can be socially acceptable and environmentally feasible.

Andhikhola Storage HEP (180 MW) References

i

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