Social Monitoring Report

This report has been submitted to ADB by the Kolkata Municipal Corporation and is made publicly available in accordance with ADB’s public communications policy (2005). It does not necessarily reflect the views of ADB.

Project Number: 29466 September 2009

IND: Kolkata Environmental Improvement Project (KEIP)

Prepared by Dr. (Ms.) Arati Nandi

External Monitor

Kolkata, India

For Kolkata Municipal Corporation

Kolkata Environmental Improvement Project (KEIP) ADB Loan No. 1813‐IND 

Executing Agency:  KOLKATA MUNICIPAL CORPORTAION 

MONITORING AND EVALUATION OF RESETTLEMENT PLAN 

                 Quarterly Report  Period of Monitoring: April, 2009 – June, 2009

2009

Dr. (Ms.) Arati NandiExternal Monitor

TABLE OF CONTENTS 1. INTRODUCTION .........................................................................................................................2 2. VALIDATION ...............................................................................................................................2 3. INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS...........................................................................................3 4. PROCEDURE FOLLOWED.........................................................................................................3 5. DELIVERY OF ENTITLEMENT ...................................................................................................4 6. CONSULTATION AND PARTICIPATION....................................................................................5 7. PUBLIC DISCLOSURE ...............................................................................................................6 8. GRIEVANCE REDRESS MECHANISM.......................................................................................6 9. INCOME RESTORATION ACTIVITIES .......................................................................................6 10. LAND ACQUISITION...................................................................................................................7 11. RELOCATION SITES..................................................................................................................8 12. REPLACEMENT OF COMMUNITY ASSETS..............................................................................8 13. ASSESSMENT ............................................................................................................................8 14. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ............................................................................................................12

ANNEXURE 1. Consultation Brief

2. Case study at Purba Putiyari R&R site

3. FGD at Bankra Hanspukur, Churial Main Canal

4. Grievance Redress meeting

5. Status of Self Help Group - Astha

6. Comparative Socio-economic status

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External Monitoring Report of Resettlement Plan Implementation

Loan ADB Loan No. 1813 - IND Subproject Kolkata Environmental Improvement Project Executing agency Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) and Irrigation and

Waterways Department (I&WD) of Government of West Bengal

Implementing agency PMU, IWD and PMU, KMC Monitoring period covered April to June, 2009

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1. Description 1.1.1. Asian Development Bank (ADB) provided a financial assistance in the year 2000 (Loan

No. 1813–IND) for Calcutta (Kolkata) Environmental Improvement Project (KEIP) to Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) in order to achieve the objectives of i) improving the urban environment in outer areas of Kolkata Municipality, ii) reducing poverty in the low-income areas through affordable access to basic urban services, iii) facilitating community empowerment by participatory process, iv) protecting environment from adverse developmental impact, v) helping KMC develop as a proficient and autonomous municipality. Supplementary loan was processed and approved in the year 2006.

1.1.2. The project has six (6) components, namely, A) Stakeholder Consultation Programme, B) Sewerage and Drainage improvements, C) Solid Waste Management, D) Slum Improvements, E) Canal Improvements & F) Implementation Assistance and Capacity Building.

1.2. Scope of Involuntary Resettlement Impacts 1.2.1. Canal Improvement components will cause displacement of squatter settlements of canal

dwellers, majority of whom are poor migrants from adjoining districts, and even from neighbouring states and Bangladesh.

1.2.2. A Resettlement Plan (RP) was prepared for the Project in 2000. The RP was updated in 2006 based on revised project design and physical changes. In all, the length of canal improvement increased from 52.6 km to 77.31 km, besides construction of 53 bridges.

1.2.3. Land of about 7.628 Ha is required for resettlement, which is in possession of the Project authority. As per Updated RP the affected households are being relocated permanently in an area not far away from the canal settlements, being compensated and assisted in shifting prior to commencement of canal rehabilitation works.

2. VALIDATION

2.1. As stated the discrepancy in resettlement impacts is due to design change specifically: (i) increase in the length of canal improvements, (ii) cancellation of sewage treatment plant components and drainage pumping stations, and (iii) a change in location for the solid waste management facility. The design change addressed the objective of resettlement according to ADB’s Involuntary Resettlement Policy, by avoiding densely populated canal settlement areas. In revised design the total length of canal improvement increased from 52.6 km to 77.31 km.

2.2. A comparative statement of the resettlement impact, as indicated in the original RP of 2000 and the Updated RP of 2006 are summarized in the following table.

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Table 1: Resettlement Impact – 2000 and 2006

Canal System Original length (km)

Revised length (km)

Affected Households

2000

Affected Persons

2000

Affected Households

2006

Affected Persons

2006 T.P. (including TP Main, Intercepting, Lead canal, addl. Canals)

9.0 34.048 2,334 8,559 2,668 11,936

Keorapukur 9.0 1.148 397 612 43 184 Monikhali & Begore 10.6 14.565 449 1,233 510 2,284 Churial (Main & Extension)

24.0 27.545 327 1,145 345 1,549

Bridge sites - - - - 60 366 Total 52.6 77.306 3,507 11,549 3,626 16,317 Source: Updated Resettlement Plan, July, 2006

3. INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS

3.1. One Social Development Unit (SDU) has been established at PMU level of KMC for implementation of RP. The consultants engaged as R&R Experts supervise the overall RP implementation. To carry out field level activities four NGOs were engaged at different phases of project implementation.

3.2. The project authority has recently strengthened capability of SDU by engaging six (6) Community Mobilizers in the SDU to assist in resettlement activities on a daily basis. They have joined the unit in November, 2008. All of them have post graduate degree in Social Science and Social work and possess necessary experience of working with NGOs, ICDS, Institute for handicapped and counselling with the marginalized people. This team of community mobilizers are being given in-house training by the SDU consultants and various organisations in motivation and awareness building tasks, formation and nurturing of self help groups at R&R sites, formation of cooperatives by the resettled families.

3.3. In each of the canal settlements CRGs were formed to facilitate disclosure of RP, its implementation and entitlement as per eligibility criteria specified in approved updated RP. Gradually after relocation these CRGs were disbanded and instead, building committees were formed at resettlement sites with members of resettled families.

4. PROCEDURE FOLLOWED

4.1. Updated RP was prepared in 2006 and the revised RP was endorsed. The identity cards were issued to the entitled APs prior to relocation in 2000. During implementation following procedure is adopted to implement the RP activities.

4.2. Verification of APs: The community mobilizers carry out verification survey of AFs at canal settlements by way of revalidating the data recorded in the identity cards prepared during census cut-off period in 2000, with current situation. This is dome to verify eligibility of entitlement. During the period April – June, 2009 verification /revalidation of canal settlers of following areas was carried out.

Table 2: Revalidation survey completed during April – June, 2009

Canal Settlement Total no. of AFs

Monikhali Akra Natun Pole, Kalikapur Ghosh Para, Ghosh Para Along Santoshpur Rd. , Kankhuli Pir Danga, Rabindranagar (West), Rabindranagar (East) – 6 no.

90

TP Basin Rajdanga (East), Garfa Mondal Para Bazar, Rajdanga Mallick Para, Haltu Newpark -4 no. 111

Keorapukur Ram Chandrapur Lalitala 8

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All Canals 11 settlements 209 Source: Internal Monitoring Report of SDU, KEIP

4.3. Bank accounts were opened at designated bank, where the AFs deposit Rs. 5000 as beneficiary contribution before shifting to new relocation site. The community mobilizers assist them in opening bank account and remain present at the time of all banking transactions. CRG members also take proactive role to be familiar with the procedure and banking authority. The APs are provided transport cost to visit the bank. During the period under review 209 AFs deposited beneficiary contribution before allotment of flats was executed.

4.4. Allotment and distribution of flats through draw of lottery under management of Ward Councillor, is done in a transparent method as per pre-arranged date. The AFs are notified to be present during allotment so that they are confident of flat allotment in an impartial manner and as per RP. The elders, physically handicapped persons, those having shops are given priority to have ground floor flats. Remaining flats are allotted through lottery.

4.5. Formation of Building committees is the major activity after canal settlers are resettled. In KEIP each building constitutes 24 flats or 32 flats, and each resettlement site has minimum 6 numbers of buildings. One member from each family is included in the committee and more active persons are given charge of several sub-committees to look after proper maintenance of the flats. Control and operation of pumps for the overhead tanks are vital for which one person is engaged. Initially, KEIP is bearing the cost of maintaining some building repair cost including payment of the pump operator.

4.6. Formation of service Cooperative society is one of the components of Resettlement & Rehabilitation Programme of KEIP in all the 5 resettlement sites in Kasba Rajdanga, Purba Putiary, Sampa Mirza Nagar, Nonadanga and Kalagachhiya (under construction). Generally the formation of Cooperative society is a step towards building ownership – feelings amongst the affected families. Therefore, it is one of the major components of exit policy and after completion of the project each Cooperative will be responsible for operation and maintenance of the assets. The members of SDU, KEIP take initiative in making people aware of necessity of forming cooperative and lead them to appropriate department to register cooperative. This is imperative to take charge of their own common assets and managing the building/flats they have been given possession of through Cooperative formed at each R&R site. KEIP has facilitated the overall process to form Cooperative; all the credentials were submitted to the Registrar of West Bengal State Cooperative Department for registration. Registration certificate is awaited for Kasba Rajdanga cooperative. Others are under process. Table 2 shows latest status of formation of cooperative till June, 2009.

Table 2: Formation of Housing Cooperative

Canal R&R site Name of Cooperative Submission of documents Status

TP Basin Kasba, Rajdanga Indupark Nilkantha Abasan Pariseba Samabaya

15 September, 2008 Done

Keorapukur Purba Putiary Upahar Abasan Pariseba Samabaya

25 June, 2009

Monikhali Sampa Mirza Nagar Nabapalli Abasan Pariseba Samabaya

30 April, 2009 Under process

Source: Internal Monitoring Report of SDU, KEIP

5. DELIVERY OF ENTITLEMENT

5.1. According to the updated RP of 2006, all the affected families are being relocated permanently in an area not far away from the canal settlements, being compensated and assisted in shifting prior to commencement of canal rehabilitation works. The Affected

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families will be resettled in Valmiki Ambedkar Shahri Awas Yojana (VAMBAY) type of flats, either purchased from KMDA or built by the Project, initially at a cost of Rs 84, 000 each. The flats built by KEIP, however, cost more. The beneficiary family will have to contribute a sum of Rs 5000. The living area of the flat is 190 sq. ft. with basic amenities like, water, electricity connections and personal toilets. As additional entitlement the flat owners will enjoy legal title in the form of 99-year non-resalable lease in the name of female head of the family. They will also enjoy exemption from any registration costs and other fees for being resettled in the VAMBAY flats.

5.2. The “highly vulnerable” people, including those headed by women, the elderly persons and the disabled/handicapped will be allotted ground floor flats which have commercial possibility and will be given access to land for social forestry and vegetable production along the rehabilitated canal banks. Besides they will be facilitated by access to income generation and poverty reduction schemes of the Government. The shop owners among the AFs will also be given priority in allotment of ground floor flats so that they can continue with their livelihood. The funds for construction of the flats are approved by the budgetary allocation of KMC and are delivered in a timely manner for construction to be completed prior to allotment of the flats.

5.3. Shifting of AFs takes place after basic amenities are provided in the flats, like water, electricity connection etc. During the period April - June, 2009 in all 209 AFS were resettled which include 90 AFs of Monikhali, 111 AFs of TP Basin and 8 families of Keorapukur canal areas were resettled in designated R & R sites at Nabapally Shampa Mirza nagar, Nonadanga Phase IV and at Purba Putiyari.

6. CONSULTATION AND PARTICIPATION

6.1. The community mobilizers are allotted tasks of interacting and carrying out consultation with the APs at canal settlements and the resettled AFs at R&R sites according to action plan prepared at SDU level each week. Each of the mobilizers is given the tasks of interacting with the APs in various settlements on rotation. After relocation the objective, utility and methodology of formation of cooperatives at resettlement sites are being discussed in formal manner during the consultation meetings held in each of the R&R sites.

6.2. In all 19 consultations were held during the period under review on various issues and agenda, attended by 267 APs in all. The discussions were held with the APs of various settlements at Monikhali, Keorapukur and TP Basin canal areas. These meetings were organised primarily by Community Mobilizers to make them aware of RP entitlement, relocation sites, resettlement process, including beneficiaries’ contribution prior to relocation. The APs are also told about facilities to be provided at relocation sites, the responsibility of the APs after relocation takes place, such as, forming building committee to operate and maintain common assets and to form service cooperative. A brief of consultation (Annex 1) is annexed.

6.3. Special Consultation and FGD session were also held by the monitoring team at R&R sites of Purba Putiyari where AFs from Keorapukur have resettled recently (Annex 2) and with the canal settlers at Bankra Hanspukur of Churial where flats are under construction at the resettlement site close by (Annex 3). The outcome of consultation at Purba Putiayri R&R site revealed the increased social status of the AFs as expressed by them. In case of few persons engaged in profession like hair cutting or tailoring, increase in income was noted which they claim is due to their new status and address of a respectable locality.

6.4. Designated consultants and the community mobilizers of SDU carried out consultations with the women of canal settlements of Bankra Hanspukur and few remaining settlements at Monikhali and TP Basin. These meetings were held with a view motivating them to form the SHG prior to their relocation. Besides, the follow up of activities of the already formed SHGs was also undertaken to nurture the groups after they are formed and monitor their progress. Apart from this, consultation with the building committee members is also held

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with prior intimation so that the members are assembled as per their convenience and at pre decided meeting place.

Table 3: Meeting in connection with Self Help Group Formation

Canal R&R site No. of meeting Total No. of participants

Monikhali Sampa Mirza Nagar 2 50 TP Basin Nonadanga (Phase IV) 4 56 Keorapukur Purba Putiary 2 35 Total 8 141 Source: Internal Monitoring Report of SDU, KEIP; verified with SHG register and book of Minutes

7. PUBLIC DISCLOSURE

7.1. The substance of RP, particularly the entitlement was disclosed to the APs of all canal settlements through participatory consultation since the inception of RP implementation process. The CRGs at canal settlements took initiatives to motivate the settlers to shift to designated relocation sites and to deposit required amount of Rs. 5000 as part of beneficiary contribution. Updated RP was disclosed in vernacular on 15 July, 2006 to the APs, Ward Councillor / Municipality/ Borough Chairman. The RP was approved by ADB Board on 8 November, 2006.

8. GRIEVANCE REDRESS MECHANISM

8.1. The community mobilizers take note of the grievances of the canal dwellers and the resettled AFs when they conduct consultation session. The grievances are heard of on individual basis and solved accordingly by the SDU. Those complaints that require intervention of higher authority of KEIP, KMC or other line departments like state electricity board are passed on to the project director for taking proper and immediate actions.

8.2. The canal settlers of Bankra Hanspukur, Churial have expressed some concern about size of flats which may not be adequate for large families. However, they have also expressed satisfaction as the relocation site is located close to their present settlement. The brief of the grievance redress meeting is annexed. (Annex 4)

8.3. Some of the defects in the flats Nonadanga Ph IV that were brought to the notice of KEIP authority are being rectified. Besides, more submersible pumps were allotted for Nonadanga Ph I – III so that water supply is uninterrupted even if one pump is put of order.

9. INCOME RESTORATION ACTIVITIES

9.1. During the period under review no income restoration trainings were organised. However, the Self Help Groups formed with project initiative and active participation of the APs are steadily progressing on their way to self sustenance. A brief preview of the SHGs formed among the APs of canal settlements and among the settled people in R & R sites is given.

9.2. Astha SHG was formed in December, 2005 of 16 women of canal settlement who are now resettled in Kasba R&R site. The monthly contribution of each member is Rs20. The group have joined “Uttoran” Neighbourhood Committee. The SHG has received a revolving fund of Rs 16, 000 from KMC. Five of its members have received training in tailoring and beautician course and all of them have started their own business/ enterprise in readymade dress, selling vegetables, and opened beauty parlour. KEIP has provided each trainee tool kits for those having beautician course and sewing machines for those trained in tailoring. On an average each of them is earning Rs 1000 a month. Their net savings at bank as of today is Rs. 8000.

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9.3. Akaash SHG was formed in February, 2006 of 10 women of Nonadanga (Phase III) R&R site. The group is included in “Alo” Neighbourhood Committee. The monthly contribution of each member is Rs 100. The members have received vocational training in tailoring and some of them have started their individual profession. Five sewing machines have been donated by LICI Association Women group. On an average each earns about Rs1000-1200 a month.

9.4. Uttar Kalikapur Swanirbhar Gosthi was formed with 15 women of U. Kalikapur canal settlement in December, 2005. They are presently resettled in Nonadanga Phase IV. The members contribute Rs100 each. The members are engaged in various socio-cultural activities. Each member earns Rs 1200 a month from various group activities.

9.5. Apart from these one SHG was formed in Shampa Mirza Nagar R&R site at Monikhlai canal with 14 members in May, 2009. They belong to the families recently resettled in Shampa Mirza Nagar. They have opened bank account and have a savings of Rs. 480.

9.6. An in depth interview was held with the office bearers of the most successful SHG – Astha – members of which have resettled in Kasba R&R site. An assessment was made of the group’s income restoration activities. (Annex 5). They had formed their group during their stay in canal settlement and been operating since 2005. The members received income generating trainings in Tailoring & beautician course with KEIP’s assistance. The trainees also received tool kits & sewing machines to start their individual enterprises. The total savings of the group is Rs. 50,400 as on June, 2009.

10. LAND ACQUISITION

10.1. In all, 581 no of flats at Nonadanga R&R site – Phase 1 & 2, (Ph I – 229, Ph II 352) are purchased from KMDA. The rest of the flats are constructed by KEIP. The total land for R&R sites built so far is 3.518 Hectares, 1.202 Hectares of which has been purchased by KEIP directly from the land owners. The rest, 2.316 Hectares have been acquired through LA Act of Govt. of West Bengal. Table 5 describes the land acquisition details for construction of R&R sites.

Table 5 : Detail of land for R&R sites acquired / purchased by KEIP for construction of flats for Canal Bank Dwellers

Sl. No.

Name of the Mouzas with the JL No & PS Plot No. Total area of land

in Hectare Remarks

1 Purba Putiary J.L. No. 43, P.S. Jadavpur

162 & 161 0.380 Ha Acquired under L. A. Case No. M.T.P./C – 9/2002 drawn as per provisions of L. A. Act I of 1894

2 Sampa Mirzanagar J.L. No. 11 P.S. Maheshtala

644(pt.), 645, 646, 647, 648, 649, 650 & 651

1.040 Ha Acquired under L. A. Case MTP/C – 14/2003 drawn as per provisions of L. A. Act I of 1894

3 Sampa Mirzanagar J.L. No. 11 P.S. Maheshtala

649 / 981 0.093 Ha Purchased directly from Private Parties through Regd. Deed No. I – 05346 dated 16. 05. 2008

4 Kalagachhiya J.L. No. 40 P.S. Maheshtala

186, 188, 221, 224, 233 & 234 0.803 Ha

Purchased directly from Private Parties through Regd. Deed No. I – 00904 dated 30. 01. 2008

5 Kasba J.L. No. 13 P.S. Kasba

4022, 4041, 4039, 4043,

4042, 4165 & 4019

0.809 Ha

6 Nonadanga J.L. No. 10 P.S. Tiljala

614 (Pt.), 615 (pt.), 625(pt.),

628 (pt.) & 630(pt.)

0.393 Ha

Purchased from KMDA

Total: 6 Mouzas 3.518 Ha

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Source: LA Documents, SDU, KEIP

11. RELOCATION SITES

11.1. The relocation sites for the resettled families of various canals settlements are located at following areas, normally within 2 km from canal settlements, in some cases due to non-availability of suitable land relocation the sites could not be established with a 2-km zone from all the canal settlements. The relocation sites are:

1. Nonadanga – Phase I –IV, Kasba for TP Basin settlements 2. Purba Putiayri – for Keorapukur Canal settlements 3. Sampa Mirza nagar – for Monikhali Canal settlements 4. Kalagachhiya – for Churial Canal settlements

11.2. Initially flats at Nonadanga were purchased from KMDA to shift the AFs at transit camp within a short time. Later flats were built under supervision of KEIP according to requirement in Nonadanga Phase IV & Kasba for AFs of TP Basin area, in Purba Putiyari for Keorapukur canal and in Shampa Mirza nagar for Monikhali canal settlements. More flats are under construction at Kalagachhiya for relocation of Churial canal settlers.

11.3. The lands for R&R sites are mostly owned by KMC/KMDA and are low lying vacant type of land. In some places, like in Shampa Mirza Nagar and at Kalagachhiya private lands were purchased without involving into land acquisition. Since most of the areas are close to their previous settlements shifting to R&R sites did not create any problem of unacceptability from the host community. Nonadanga being a vacant low lying land within added area of KMDA there was no settlements before and the re-settled AFs are the pioneer settlers of the locality. During FGD held with AFs of Purba Putiary Resettlement site the resettled families shared their post relocation experience. They enjoy proximity to their previous settlement, which did not hinder continuation of their livelihood. Besides Kudhghat Metro Railway station is within 5 minutes of walking distance. (See Annex 2)

11.4. As per updated RP all the AFs are to be provided with one flat with 190 sq ft super built area having individual toilet facility. The basic infrastructural facilities including water, internal roads, electrical connection to individual flat, lighting at common stair case and building front, garbage disposal system, etc are also being provided. The cost of land, construction of flats and provision of basic infrastructures are being borne by KEIP.

12. REPLACEMENT OF COMMUNITY ASSETS

12.1. The resettlement sites have provision for construction of community shed which can be used for community activities, like work shed for the SHGs’ income generating activities. Since the children of the resettled families attend the schools they used to go earlier there is no provision for opening additional school for them. However, the AFs have requested for pre-nursery schools for the young children which is under consideration. Similarly the AFs are continuing to attend the medical centres, like hospital and dispensaries which are within communicable distance and which they used to visit before shifting to R&R site.

13. ASSESSMENT

13.1. During April - June, 09 relocation of 209 AFs was complete. Names of the head of households and other family members of these AFs were validated according to 2000 database. The verified families were considered for allotment of one flat for each family. The shifting of these AFs was scheduled at an earlier date during February-March. However, due to parliamentary election organised in April-May, 09 in the state the schedule had to be readjusted according to restriction imposed by state election commission. Like other relocation sites these 209 flats also enjoy basic civic facilities and common assets. Drinking water is supplied from over head storage tank on each building with supply pipe line in each flat. Similarly electrical connection has been provided to each flat. There is common lighting arrangement for building front and staircase, cost of which

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is to be borne by all the flat residents. One Building committee has been formed for each R&R site consisting of members from all residing families. The committee is to maintain and operate common assets, like operating pumps for water supply, collection of maintenance fund from each family for maintenance of common assets, communicating with KEIP authority regarding problems faced by the flat owners, etc.

13.2. The newly resettled 209 families have not yet been provided with any vocational training or other income generating schemes. The SDU has concentrated more on accomplishing relocation of families within scheduled period for all the canal settlements. Consultations are being undertaken with the resettled families and their building committee representatives to form cooperative, which is important for maintenance of the flats and common assets created in the resettlement sites. The FGD held with the newly resettled families also revealed that day-to-day issues like, maintenance of building and cost of common assets like operating cost of pumps, providing alternate arrangement for water supply in case of failure of pump etc. demand prior attention, than income generating training. Nevertheless, self help groups have been formed and initial motivation and awareness generation activities have been taken up by SDU’s community mobilizers and the senior consultants.

13.3. The scope of work for independent monitoring is to assess whether primary objective of involuntary resettlement has been achieved. That is whether the affected persons have regained their life and livelihood and their social network is established in the new environment. During the monitoring period the external monitoring team carried out sample surveys to assess adequacy and effectiveness of resettlement plan implementation process and post relocation situation of the resettled families at R&R sites in order to measure changed socio-economic status of the resettled families.

13.4. The survey of 140 sample AFs was carried out in the following areas:

A. Pre-relocation Canal settlement - Kalagachhiya settlement of Churial Canal - 30 HH. B. The post-relocation settlements include (i) Sampa Mirza Nagar R&R site - 20 HH of

Monikhali canal, (ii) Purba Putiyari R&R site - 20 HH at Keorapukur canal, (iii) Kasba R&R site - 20 HH, (iv) Nonadanga Phase I - 30 HH, (iv) Nonadanga Phase IV - 20 HH - all last three mentioned resettled areas are within TP basin.

13.5. To assess effectiveness of resettlement process and objectives some indicators were selected. These are socio-demographic, economic and infrastructural facilities at resettled areas and opinion of AFs to resettlement process and adequacy of facilities at resettlement sites. Since baseline data of the affected families at canal settlements during pre-relocation stage is not available, socio-economic information at their pre-relocation stage was collected from the sample households at Purba Putiyari and Shampa Mirza Nagar relocation sites where families have recently been relocated and whose pre-relocation survey were carried out earlier. Based on sample survey data pre and post resettlement situation and more importantly adequacy of infra structural amenities have been measured. (Annex 6)

13.6. The outcome of the survey is briefly stated below.

13.7. Socio-demographic status – Majority of the sample households are of general caste Hindu with proportion varying from 60% to 75%. Average family size is 4. 4 persons in all R&R sites except in Kalagachhiya pre-relocation settlement of Churial canal where it is 10. 6. Literacy status for all population is poor with proportion of literates varying from 25% to 30% in the resettlement sites. In Kalagachhiya it is exceptionally low, 6% only. There is a need for attention on this aspect of low educational attainment. Work participation rate is quite high, 40% on an average for all the resettlement sites, with Nonadanga accounting for 45%, the highest proportion of workers. Kalagachhiya pre-relocation canal settlement again showed a poor ratio, 16% workers of all population. It is interesting to note that women of this settlement have shown eagerness for vocational training after relocation.

13.8. Working status – So far as occupational pattern is concerned there has not been any major change in type of occupation. Majority of male workers is engaged as daily waged

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labour (30%-50%) with highest proportion in Shampa Mirza Nagar. Only few persons of Nonadanga & Shampa Mirza Nagar are working in factories, both the sites being close to industrial belt. Rickshaw / Van pullers account for about 10% to 30% in all settlements except in Shampa Mirza nagar. Their highest proportion is in Purba Putiyari, which is in close proximity to wholesale market.

13.9. The proportion of persons in service/ or business is few – 10%-20%, in Nonadanga, Kasba and Purba Putiyari resettlement sites. FGD held among the residents of Puba Putiyari revealed that relocation has enriched the small business entrepreneurs as their status to the clients has gained a level of respectability.

13.10. Women are mostly engaged as maid or cook. Some are professional midwife in Purba Putiayri R&R site and in Shampa Mirza Nagar. There has not major change in livelihood of women. However, some women SHG members have started earning independently with the help of their newly acquired skill.

13.11. All these indicators show a poor socio-economic status of the canal dwellers of Churial canal settlement. The resettled APs at post-relocation sites have not suffered loss of livelihood compared to their pre-relocation state. In fact, being close to Kolkata‘s industrial belt have given job opportunity to the resettled APs.

13.12. Income level – Proportion of poor households with average monthly income up to Rs. 1500 is highest in Kalagachhiya canal settlement – 27%, followed by Shampa Mirza Nagar R&R site (25%). Incidence of these households is negligible in Kasba, Nonadanga or Purba Putiyari R&R sites, where proportion of households with more than Rs 3500 income a month is around 50%. On the other hand, proportion of households with income Rs1500-3500 a month varies from 63% in Kalagachhiya to 50% in Shampa Mirza nagar. It is lowest in Purba Putiyari (30%). In general, families resettled in Nonadanga, Kasba & Purba Putiayri are economically well off families compared to those resettled in Shampa Mirza Nagar or In Kalagachhiya canals settlements. Some business operators or self entrepreneurs have expressed that relocation has increased social status and improved their business transaction.

13.13. So far as habit of savings is concerned, 50% of the families of Shampa Mirza Nagar save in bank or LIC, while only 25 -35% Nonadanga families are used to savings. People of Kalagachiya and Purba Putiyari are quite unaware about usefulness of savings. SDU has to put thrust on this aspect of awareness building on habit of savings.

13.14. Majority of resettled families in Nonadanga, Kasba & Shampa Mirza Nagar own TV set and Gas oven and many of them have acquired these after shifting to R&R site. Cycle is the most common non-motorised vehicle owned by them everywhere, except in Purba Putiyari. There is a definite trend among the resettled families of Shampa Mirza Nagar, Nonadanga & Kasba to own furniture after they are well settled in their new flats. Only a few own refrigerator. These items are kind of luxury among the inhabitants of Kalagachhiya, many of whom are content with radio sets instead of TV.

13.15. Infra structural facilities – The informants of sample households were asked to prioritise their facility requirement in the R&R sites and rank them in order of priority. According to them, supply of drinking water through pipeline is the most required facility for the resettled families everywhere, except in Shampa Mirza Nagar. Next rank in priority is internal road and street light. Provision of Garbage vat is next important facility in demand particularly in Nonadanga & Kasba R&R sites. Building a boundary wall and community shed are some other facilities that have been prioritised by the resettled families. Similar opinion survey was also undertaken during earlier review periods in Nonadanga and Kasba and it appears that the priority remains the same almost everywhere.

13.16. The canal dwellers of Kalagachhiya have also placed demand for drinking water through tank / tube well as the highest priority with street light and provision of boundary wall as other major needs in the R&R site under construction.

13.17. People’s opinion about resettlement process and adequacy of consultation undertaken by KEIP was enquired during FGD. It appeared that the people are well acquainted with the

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resettlement entitlement and requirement of beneficiary contribution through a series of consultation process attended by them. They are also content with the grievance redress mechanism, which is operated on a person to person basis, as they have little time to go to the KEIP office or office of local councillor. The canal dwellers of Kalagachhiya are rather skeptic about flat life which they believe will be less than adequate for an average large family in their socio-cultural set up. They need to be given more attention in terms of community consultation and training in adapting to flat life.

13.18. Outstanding issue – There are four resettlement sites at Nonadanga Phase – I, II, III & IV. Initiation for formation of Cooperative is pending due to political squabbles among the residents which acted as a hindrance to the formation of Cooperative. The SDU along with the highest authority of the project is trying to pull in influence at KMC’s organisational level to expedite Cooperative formation.

13.19. Resettlement site at Kalagachhiya for canal settlers of Churial is under construction and is likely to be complete in October, 09. The canal dwellers are not used to life in a closed environment of a flat and are sceptical about adjustment with life after relocation. It is suggested that more community consultation and awareness building meetings may be organised to prepare them for adapting to living in flat and sharing common responsibility in a building complex prior to their shifting to R&R site. A suggestive action plan is drawn below.

13.20. Table 6: Action Plan for motivation & consultation at Kalagachhiya canal settlement

Sl. No. Planned activities Frequency Participation Objective

1 Motivation camp Once in a month

All adult members & separately for women

1. General concept of flat life & common responsibility

2. Building committee & Cooperative formation at R&R site

2 Health awareness Once in every fortnight

Women & teenage girls

General hygienic living condition Special awareness for teenage girls

3 Training in housekeeping

Do Women To arrange /organise household chores, e.g. cooking, storing water, washing etc

4 Formation of SHG Once in a month

Women Motivation may be done prior to relocation. Group to be formed later.

13.21. The constructional work of the flats and the repair work (where required) are being done by KEIP. The construction is done by the civil work contractors of the Project and cost is borne from the project.

13.22. Problems encountered during implementation of RP were resolved by the EA in various suitable ways, which are exemplified below.

13.23. During validation SDU with its community mobilizers conduct verification of the card holders’ name and their family members. Any discrepancies, such as in names / surnames of the card holders, if noted, are cross verified with the help of voter’s identity cards. After SDU is satisfied with the authenticity of the card holder, he/she is asked to produce affidavit from court to establish the card holder’s identity. This method is followed for all card holders who were issued cards in 2000 after census. The method is certified by legal action and hence fraudulent claims can be easily dismissed.

13.24. Of late, relocation of remaining canal dwellers of TP Basin at Nonadanga and Kasba R&R sites has faced some difficulties due to reluctance of the respective Ward councillors, who are pressing for relocating more number of families other than those identified due to KEIP. This has led to delay in relocation process and proper adjustment of the canal

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dwellers in a new kind of living. The problem has been resolved with intervention of KMC authority including Mayor of Kolkata Corporation. KEIP authority has made frequent interaction with the canal settlers / resettled families and ward councillors / Borough / Municipality chairperson to resolve issues at R&R sites, particularly in respect of Cooperative formation and operation & maintenance of common assets.

14. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

14.1. The External Monitor gratefully acknowledges the interactive session held with Mr D. Guha Thakurta, Administrative Officer, Mr. Kali Ghosh and Mr Prabir Roy and the Community Mobilizers of SDU, KEIP, for providing details of resettlement implementation activities undertaken during the period under review. Monitoring team expresses its appreciation for the community mobilizers for providing details of FGD and community consultation held at Canal settlement and resettlement site and details of SHG operation. Lastly, cooperation of the resettled families of Nonadanga Phase I & II, Kasba R&R site, Purba Putiyari & Shampa Mirza Nagar R&R sites and the canal settlers of Churial Main canal during the sample household survey, community consultation, and FGD sessions is appreciated.

Annex 1. Brief of Community Consultation

Canal location

Canal settlement/ R&R site

No. of meetings

held

Period Agenda /Issues discussed

TP Basin

Garfa Mondalpara, Rajdanga E, Rajdanga

Mallickpara

6 April – June, 09

Discussion held on Entitlement Matrix, detailed procedure of flat distribution through lottery & beneficiary’s contribution to be deposited at designated bank – State Bank of Mysore.

Monikhali

Rabindranagar E & W, Kankhuli Ghoshpara,

Akra Nutan Pool, Santoshpur

5 Do Process of flat distribution through lottery & beneficiary’s contribution at State Bank of Mysore were main topic of consultation. Also, allotment of ground floor flat for families aged and disabled persons discussed. APs requested for accommodating all of same settlement in one single block.

Keorapukur

Ramchandrapur Lalitala 1 June, 09 The procedure of depositing the beneficiary contribution at the KEIP A/c of State Bank of Mysore was explained. Allotment of flat through draw of lottery to be conducted in a couple of phases. The principle of allotting ground floor flat for the aged, ailing and shop owner was disclosed. Rest of the flats on 1st floor to 3rd floor to be allotted by lottery.

Churial Bankra Hanspukur

1 (48) Do Following topics regarding entitlement, formation of CRG were discussed. Entitlement included: (a)190 Sq.ft flat with in-house water supply and separate toilet, (b) Boundary wall along with couple of main gates, (c) Community hall for the residents’ social functions, meetings, (d) Street lights within the campus, (e) Garbage disposal vat, (f) An additional pump for emergency purpose. In this meeting AFs also

placed their demand for providing fresh drinking water source & internal path way

Monikhali Shampa Mirza Nagar R&R site

1 June, 09 Maintenance of Housing complex and formation of Cooperative Society. The meeting was conducted with the members of proposed Cooperative Society and following issues were discussed. (i) Role of Cooperative in maintenance of housing complex, (ii) Monthly contribution of flat owners towards Cooperative, (iii) Opening of Bank Account in the name of Cooperative Society, (iv) Cooperative Society is also a tool to redress grievances.

Annex 2. Case Study at

Purba Putiary Resettlement Site Purba Putiary resettlement site has six building blocks with each block

containing 32 flats. 72 AFs of Keorapuker Canal Bank have resettled so far.

Some of the residents narrated their life after relocation which are stated below.

Case Study no. 1

Subal Seal, Flat No.: C-105- He got the ground floor through lottery and uses a

portion of the flat as a Barber Shop. Before relocation he had a similar shop at

canal bank but he could not satisfy the customers in spite of using fancy

products. The reason, according to him, was the location at canal bank and

shabby interior of the shop. The customers did not even pay adequately for the

service. Some time they complained of bad odour coming out of dirty canal. But

after relocation he now has a well equipped and permanent shop with toilet and

electricity facility. He uses same fancy foreign product to make the customers

happy and also is paid more for his service. His earning has increased

substantially from Rs.80/- a day to Rs.150/- per day. He has now employed

another person as a helping hand.

Case study no.2

Budhbi Koa, Flat No. B-105, is an old lady who runs a hotel with help from her

daughter. They are pursuing their previous business of providing cooked meal

to the customers as they used to do at canal bank area. There is a qualitative

improvement in their business and increase in profit. Now they can provide

hygienic food, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian, at a competitive cost and as

per customers’ choice in a clean environment. There is a sharp change in their

working environment and life style. Besides, they are no more worried about

theft at their new resettlement site.

Case study no. 3

Amitava Dutta, Flat No E-108, was the secretary of Canal Resettlement Group

(CRG) and now he is the Secretary of the Housing Cooperative of Purba Putiary

resettlement site. He had a grocery shop at canal bank area with temporary

construction. Now he is carrying on his business at his ground floor flat at R&R

site. Because of his new respectable status after shifting to a permanent

address the flat he easily gets credit from the Mahajon (Money Lender) to run

the business. He purchases materials in a bulk quantity at a lower price and

sells from his shop- cum-residence, resulting in a greater profit.

Case study No. 4

Sobita Koa is a maid servant recently settled at the R&R site. She started

working to boost family earning. Their family income gas increased from Rs

3000 before to Rs 5000 after relocation. She got both of her children admitted

in an English medium school. She is proud of her achievement as she can

consider herself equal to other responsible parents of the APL society.

Case study no. 5

Doli Khatun is living with her mother, who is a maid servant. Her father expired

two years back. She is studying in Cl X and wishes to continue with higher level

if education. It depends on the family’s economic stability. She has enrolled

herself in beautician’s training course which KEIP will provide in due course of

time. The date of training is not yet finalized.

Case study no. 6

Sumitra Mallick is a maidservant. She is the sole bread earner of the family.

Her husband is physically disabled and so they got a ground floor flat. She

earns about Rs 1800 a month. She has expressed interest in joining SHG which

has been formed in their housing complex with initiative of KEIP and is also

being facilitated for strengthening.

Annex 3. Consultation and FGD at Bankra Hanspukur Canal Settlement, Churial Canal Bankra Hanspukur is one of the major settlement areas of Churial Canal. 96 AFs

are staying here since last 16 to 17 years who will be resettled at Kalagachhiya

Resettlement Site under construction by KEIP.

Outcome of the individual interview Case study 1.

Abbas Ali Molla- By profession Abbas is a Tailor master and earn Rs.500/- to

Rs.600/- per week but his income may increase to Rs1000/- to Rs.1200/- per

week in the time of festivals. Apart from that he also harvesting paddy in rainy

season and from there he just procure rice only for his family meal.

Case study 2.

Rahim Shek- is the secretary of Canal Resettlement Group, he is a Rickshaw

puller and earn Rs.80/- to Rs.100/- per day. As per his opinion the rooms of the

flats are not enough for a joint family, but he also evolves that they will get a

permanent address with permanent construction. Some how it may be a problem

in early but people become accustomed with the new situation. He is interested in

poultry and carries his chickens to the flat.

Case study 3.

Jaya Mallick is also living here since last 20 years. Her husband is a daily labour

and earn Rs.80/- Rs.100/- per day. Jaya is interested to join SHG to earn

additional income. The concept of SHG became clear to her after community

consultation by KEIP officials.

Case study 4.

Mithu Jana is 22 years old reading in B.A second year, she is interested in

tailoring and appeals to KEIP to arrange Nursing training for her.

Case study 5.

Manik Mondal is a shop keeper and he is worried with the relocation because his

family size is also quite large. His parents are old so they can’t walk upstairs. At

canal bank area he built a kutcha house with a couple of room and kitchen, but

they use unhygienic open air latrine, as well as their house is without of electricity

connection.

Annex 4. Outcome of Grievance Redress Meeting

During the FGD organized at Bankra Hanspukur by KEIP’s SDU some key issues and

grievances were discussed as follows. Some key features of the project and the

entitlement of RP were explained by the KEIP officials. The main features of entitlement

are as follows.

• As per RP each identified AF will be provided with a flat within a resettlement

complex with a long term lease.

• Each flat is constructed with 190 Sq.Ft of super buildup area.

• Attached toilet.

• In-house Electricity connections & ground water sources.

• Total resettlement campus will be protected by the guard wall.

• A community shed will be made by the KEIP for organising social functions,

community activities.

• Couple of submersible pumps will be given.

• One or more tube-well will be excavated as per need but request for that must be

raised by the AFs.

• AFs should contribute Rs.5000/- at a time, and will deposit in the A/c of

KEIP/KMC in designated bank before shifting to R&R site. If one is unable to

deposit the lump sum then he or she may be given more time to arrange the

money.

• Some training programmes have been provided by KEIP in other areas for

alternative income generation of the resettled persons, who are willing and have

minimum capability. These will also be conducted for the APs here.

Some of the major Grievances/Issues raised by the APs are:

• Most of the families are large, which is a major problem for proper

accommodation in 190 sq ft flat.

• Few people are living below poverty level, so they may not be able to contribute

Rs.5000/- at one time.

• Some people are physically challenged so they can’t walk upstairs.

• The AFs are not eligible to sell the flats in future.

• No such alternative resources of water, except one deep tube well is provided.

• There is no such provision for recreation centre or common room.

• No concrete slab in the room which can be used as rack.

• There is no provision for kitchen, only a balcony to be used as kitchen.

• Why government is not providing land instead of the flats?

To answer the queries and redress the grievances at the field level the KEIP official

explained that there is no such provision for land instead of flats within RP, which is

approved by ADB and KMC. Since it is the KEIP policy of compensation for

displacement of the people from canal settlements which is provided in RP and

approved by authority, the provision will remain the same and will never change. The

area of flats and the design as approved by the project consultants are also same for

all areas and there is nothing KEIP can change now. However, KEIP will provide for

extra submersible pump and a common shed to be used for community gathering as

already explained.

The canals settlers of Bankra Hanspukur have, however, expressed satisfaction that

the R&R site is located close by which will enable them to retain their clients or not

enforce them to incur cost of transport for the women to go to their work place.

Annex 5. Status of Self Help Group (SHG)

Case Study of Astha SHG

1.0 Brief description:

Location: Kasba Resettlement Site Name of the SHG: Astha Self Help Group. Total no of members: 16 Date of formation: 12/12/2005 Total SHG saving till date: Rs.8000/- only Vocational Training Received: Tailoring and Beautician. Name of the Secretary: Bulbul Das. Name of the President: Panchali Halder Name of the Treasurer: Apu Kundu 2.0 Inception: Since the formation, the group was active in their activities. The group was formed at Rabindrapally settlement within TP Basin in 2005. The women folks are working as domestic help in near by area of the settlement. The families of Rabindrapally settlement have been resettled in Kasba Relocation site in December, ‘08. Till now the group is working under the umbrella of “UTTORAN” Neighborhood Committee. The group has started revolving of internal fund by contributing @ Rs.20/- per month by each member and extending credit with interest @ 2% per thousand rupees among the group members. The SHG made rules regarding the inter group credit process. The members who wish to take loan should repay the amount with interest within 10 months. 3.0 Income generation: The SHG received a revolving fund of Rs. 16000/- from Kolkata Municipal Corporation. Some of the members have started individual business of readymade garments and sale of saree. The members who have received training in tailoring and beautician course have started earning of Rs. 1000/- per month. KEIP/KMC has provided machine for the trainees of tailoring and tool kits for the trainees of beautician course. Initially they had started their business with these machines and tool kits. The group has got contract of wage work (@Rs 85/-) per day from KMC. During festival (Durga Puja), secretary of the SHG distributes the total earnings among the members.

4.0 Accounts & financial status: Following table describes financial health of the SHG. Sl. No. Year Total savings

(Year wise) Group activity

1 2005 – 2006 Rs. 6310/- Monthly savings in Group account.

2 2006 – 2007 Rs. 6760/-

Monthly savings, intermember credit, income earned by participating in KMC organised fair and involvement of group members in Wage Work.

3 2007 – 2008 Rs. 7260/- Same as above. Also started working under the UTTORAN” Neighborhood Committee.

4 2008 – 2009 (Till June) Rs. 14070/-

The group has got revolving fund of Rs. 16,000/- from KMC through Neighbourhood Committee.

5 2005 – 2009 (June) Rs. 50,400/-

Group members have started their own individual businesses, e.g. selling grocery and stationery items, operating STD booth etc. Av earning Rs 1000 a month by each.

Indicators

Kalagachhia canal settlement

Shampa Mirza nagar R&R site

Purba Putiyari R&R site

Kasba R&R site

Nonadanga Ph IV R&R site

Nonadanga Ph I R&R site

Socio-demographic

CommunityGen- 43, Minority-30 Gen - 65 Gen- 70 Gen - 60

Gen-40, SC - 55

SC- 47, Gen -53

Family type Nuclear- 93 Nuclear - 80 Nuclear -100 Nuclear- 90 Nuclear-100 Nuclear - 93Family size (Av.) 10.6 4.5 4.4 4.2 4.4 4.7Sex Ratio 1135 978 1230 1049 740 1074Literacy All:(6+ yrs) 6 21 29 18 23 27Literacy (6-15 yrs) 4 18 21 8.3 12 11

T.Workers 16 40 41 0 45 41Type of ocupation:

Male

DL-32%, R'shaw/Van puller-10%

DL /Other Lab - 52%,

DL-11%, R'shaw/Van puller-28%, Business- 15%

DL-17%, Drvr- 12%, R'shawpuller-10%

DL, R'shawpuller-14%,Service, Business- 19%

DL/Factory Lab-47%, Business-12%

Female Maid - 65% Maid - 69%

Midwife- 17%, Cook-14

Cook- 25%, Maid-11%

Cook-20%,Maid- 11%

Cook, Maid - 10% , Factory Lab -7%

Total HH Income ( in Rs/mth) Group:Upto 1500 27 25 10 5 0 81500-3500 63 50 30 50 60 46>3500 10 25 50 45 40 46

Total HH Expenditure (in Rs/mth) range:< 1500 23 0 0 15 0 141500-3500 60 60 85 75 70 53>3500 17 40 15 10 30 33

Assets:Cycle 50 55 25 50 60 57Radio 30 10 10 10TV/DVD/Tape 33 60 35 55 70 73Refrigerator 5Furniture 45 10 25 35 27Gas oven 60 10 55 55 53Electrical gadget 40

Savings:Bank Nil 35 25 10 23LIC Nil 10 15 5 10Pvt. Nil 5 5PO Nil 5 5 3

Annex 5. Comparative socio-economic status for Pre - and post relocation situation and priority of infra structural facilities

Infra structural Facilities: Priority wise rank

Rank 1

Drinking water-Tank/TW -40%

Drinking water -pipeline - 25%, Garbage vat - 20%

Drinking water - pipelne-50%,

Str light, Drinking water-pipeline- 25%; Intrl road - 20%

Drinking water-pipeline - 85%,

Drinking water-pipeline-83%,

Rank 2

Drnkg water- TW -33%, Pipeline - 30%

Intrl road, Str light - 25%

Drnkng water-pipeline- 35%

Intrl road-30%, Drnkg water-pipeline-25%, Str light-20%

Garbge Vat -25%

Drinking water-Tank/TW -20%

Rank 3

Intrnl road - 33%; Str lght, B/wall, Invdl elec conn - 30% each

Intrl road -20%; Str light, Indvl elec conn, Play gr.- 15% each

Str light, Drnkg water- TW/Tank, Pipeline-25%

Drnkg water-pipeline-45%, Garbage vat -25%

Garbage Vat - 50%, Play gr.-15%

Intrl road, Str light - 20% each, garbage vat -17%

Rank 4 B.Wall - 23%,

Drnkg water pipeline -20%, B wall- 25%, Comm shed- 15%

B.wall- 35%, Intrl road - 25%, Indvl elec conn- 20%

Open space- 25%,B.wall- 30%

B.Wall-25%, Str light, garbage Vat, Internl road-20% each

Intrl road -27%, Str light -30%,Garbage vat -20%

Note: Figures denote % to total sample HH Key: Community: Gen = General Hindu , SC= Sched Caste Occupation: DL = Day Labour, R'shawpuller = Rickshaw puller Facilities: TW= Tube well, B.wall= Boundary wall, Str light = Street lightNB: Kalagachhiya canal dwellers have expressed their opinion only in terms of preference of facilities

Source: Sample Survey conducted during June-July, 2009