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EIA FOR BAHRIA TOWN ICON TOWER KARACHI, SINDH

Business Dynamics-Environment Division & GEMS

TABLE OF CONTENTS CHAPTER – 1: INTRODUCTION

1.1 PROJECT PROPONENT 1-1 1.2 PROJECT OVERVIEW 1-1 1.3 INTRODUCTION TO EIA 1-2

1.3.1 Purpose of the Study 1-2 1.3.2 Scope of the EIA 1-2 1.3.3 Approach and Methodology 1-2

1.4 COMPONENTS OF THIS REPORT 1-4 CHAPTER – 2: INSTITUTIONAL, LEGISLATION AND POLICY FRAMEWORK

2.1 NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY, LEGISLATION AND GUIDELINES 2-1

2.1.1 National Conservation Strategy (NCS) 2-1 2.1.2 National Environmental Action Plan-Support Programme (NEAP-SP) 2-2 2.1.3 Pakistan Environmental Protection Act 1997 2-2 2.1.4 Approval from Sindh Environment Protection Agency 2-3 2.1.5 Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency Review of IEE and EIA Regulations, 2000 2-4 2.1.6 The National Environmental Quality Standards 2-5 2.1.7 Local Governments Ordinance, 2001 2-5 2.1.8 Land Acquisition Act, 1894 2-6 2.1.9 Karachi Building and Town Planning Regulations 2002 2-6 2.1.10 Sindh Regulation and Control Ordinance, 2002 2-9 2.1.11 Pakistan Penal Code (1860) 2-9

2.2 NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL GUIDELINES OR STANDARDS 2-9 2.2.1 The Pakistan Environmental Assessment Procedures, 1997 2-9 2.2.2 World Bank Guidelines on Environment 2-10 2.2.3 Civil Safe Employee: Australian Health and Safety Handbook 2-10 2.2.4 Environmental Guidelines for Major Construction Sites 2-11

CHAPTER - 3 PROJECT DESCRIPTION 3.1 PURPOSE OF THE PROJECT 3-1

3.2 CONCEPT 3-2 3.3 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS IN DESIGN 3-2 3.4 LOCATION, STATUS AND SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES 3-2

3.4.1 Project Location 3-2 3.4.2 Project Status 3-3 3.4.3 Schedule of activities 3-3 3.4.4 Construction and Commissioning 3-3 3.4.5 Construction Equipment and Machinery 3-3 3.4.6 Civil Works 3-3

3.5 PUBLIC UTILITY INFRASTRUCTURE ON SITE 3-10 3.6 RESOURCE USE 3-10



3.6.1 Staffing/Population 3-10 3.6.2 Construction Materials and other supplies 3-10 3.6.3 Use of water 3-11 3.6.4 Noise, Wastes and Emissions 3-11 3.6.5 Noise 3-11 3.6.6 Solid Waste 3-12 3.6.7 Wastewater disposal 3-12 3.6.8 Emissions 3-12 3.6.9 Other wastes 3-13

3.7 ALTERNATIVE SITES 3-13 CHAPTER 4 ENVIRONMENTAL BASELINE: PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT

4.1 TOPOGRAPHY AND LAND USE 4-1 4.2 SOIL 4-2 4.3 CLIMATE 4-2 4.4 RAINFALL 4-3 4.5 RELATIVE HUMIDITY 4-3 4.6 WIND SPEED AND DIRECTION 4-3 4.7 WATER RESOURCES 4-4

4.7.1 Surface Water Resources 4-4 4.7.2 Groundwater Resources 4-5 4.7.3 Coastal Water 4-5 4.7.4 Water Quality 4-6

4.8 AMBIENT AIR QUALITY 4-7 4.9 NOISE LEVELS 4-7 4.10 NATURAL HAZARDS 4-8

4.10.1 Earth Quakes 4-8 4.10.2 Tsunamis 4-8 4.10.3 Tropical Storms and Cyclones 4-8

CHAPTER 5 ENVIRONMENTAL BASELINE: BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT

5.1 FLORA 5-1 5.2 FAUNA 5-2

5.2.1 Birds 5-2 5.2.2 Mammals 5-3 5.2.3 Reptiles 5-3 5.2.4 Aquatic Fauna 5-3

CHAPTER 6 ENVIRONMENTAL BASELINE: SOCIO-ECONOMIC & CULTURAL ENVIRONMENT

6.1 SCOPE AND METHODOLOGY 6-1 6.2 PROJECT LOCATION AND ADMINISTRATIVE SETUP 6-1 6.3 ENTRY AND EXIT POINT 6-2 6.4 DEMOGRAPHICS 6-2 6.5 NETWORKING AND BUSINESS ACTIVITIES 6-2 6.6 LEADERSHIP DYNAMICS 6-3 6.7 LIVELIHOOD 6-3 6.8 DRINKING WATER 6-4 6.9 EDUCATION 6-4 6.10 HEALTH 6-5



6.11 NON GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS (NGOS) 6-5 6.12 CULTURE 6-6 6.13 GENDER 6-6

6.13.1 Daily Routine of Women 6-6 6.13.2 Women Role in Decision Making 6-7

CHAPTER 7 PUBLIC CONSULTATION

7.1 OBJECTIVES OF PUBLIC CONSULTATION 7-1 7.2 PROCESS 7-1 7.3 PUBLIC CONSULTATION OUTCOME 7-2

7.3.1 Community View 7-2 7.4 OTHER STAKEHOLDERS 7-3

7.4.1 Deputy Director, Sindh Education Foundation 7-3 7.4.2 WWF Pakistan 7-3 7.4.3 IUCN Pakistan 7-4 7.4.4 Behbud Foundation 7-4 7.4.5 Representative of Oqaf Department 7-4 7.4.6 Local Councilor 7-5 7.4.7 NGO Representative 7-5

CHAPTER - 8 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATIONS

8.1 INTRODUCTION 8-1 8.2 IMPACT ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY 8-1

8.2.1 Definition of the Criteria for Determining Significance 8-1 8.3 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS ASSOCIATED WITH CONSTRUCTION AND POST DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES 8-2

8.3.1 Land Use and Soils 8-2 8.3.2 Air Quality 8-4 8.3.3 Construction Noise 8-8 8.3.4 Water Sourcing 8-9 8.3.5 Soil Contamination 8-11 8.3.6 Traffic 8-12 8.3.7 Wastewater Generation 8-13 8.3.8 Solid Waste Generation and Management 8-15 8.3.9 Seismicity 8-18 8.3.10 Sustainability 8-19 8.3.11 Disturbance to Wildlife 8-20 8.3.12 Socio-economic Impacts 8-20

CHAPTER 9 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

9.1 INTRODUCTION 9-1 9.1.1 Objectives 9-1

9.2 ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE AND ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 9-2

9.2.1 Organizational Structure 9-2 9.3 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 9-2

9.3.1 General 9-2 9.3.2 Implementation of the Operation 9-3 9.3.3 Communication and Documentation 9-4



9.4 MITIGATION MANAGEMENT MATRIX 9-4 9.5 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PROGRAMME 9-4

9.5.1 Compliance Monitoring 9-5 9.5.2 Effects Monitoring 9-5 9.5.3 Environmental Reporting 9-6

9.6 CHANGE MANAGEMENT PLAN 9-6 9.6.1 Changes to the EMP 9-6 9.6.2 Changes to the Operation 9-7

9.7 TRAINING PROGRAMME 9-8 9.7.1 Objectives 9-8 9.7.2 Roles and Responsibilities 9-8 9.7.3 Training Programme 9-8

Chapter – 10 CONCLUSIONS 10-1



Exhibits

Exhibit 1.1: Project Area Location Map 1-5

Exhibit 2.1: NEQS for Municipal and Industrial Effluents 2-12

Exhibit 2.2: NEQS for Selected Gaseous Pollutants from Industrial Sourcesa 2-14

Exhibit 2.3: NEQS for Motor Vehicle Exhaust and Noise 2-15

Exhibit 2.4: World Bank Guidelines for Noise Levels 2-16

Exhibit 2.5: Indicative IFC Values of Treated Sanitary Sewage Discharges 2-16 Exhibit 3.1: Site Plan of the Proposed ICON Tower 3-14

Exhibit 3.2: Section Highlighting Different Disciplines of the Building 3-15

Exhibit 3.3: Stack Emission Parameters for Generators 3-16

Exhibit 3.4: Pictorial Profile: Project Site 3-16

Exhibit 4.1: Spread of Land Cover Clusters of Karachi Division 4-10 Exhibit 4.2: Mean Maximum and Minimum Temperature of Karachi South 4-10

Exhibit 4.3: Maximum Precipitation (mm) 4-11

Exhibit 4.4: Relative Humidity 4-11

Exhibit 4.5: Average Wind Speed 4-12

Exhibit 4.6: Water Quality of the Project Area 4-12 Exhibit 4.7: Ambient Air Quality of the Project Area 4-12

Exhibit 4.8: Noise Levels Data of the Project Area 4-13

Exhibit 4.9: Pictorial profile of the physical environment of the area 4-14

Exhibit 5.1: List of Floral Species Found in the Project Area 5-4

Exhibit 5.2: List of Bird Species in the Project Area 5-5 Exhibit 5.3: List of Mammals in the Project Area 5-8

Exhibit 5.4: List of Mammals in the Project Area 5-8

Exhibit 5.5: Pictorial Profile: Biological Environment 5-9

Exhibit 6.1: Project Area Surrounding Environment 6-8

Exhibit 6.2: Community Well-being Assessment in the Project Area 6-9

Exhibit 6.3: Pictorial Profile: Socio-economic & Cultural Environment 6-14 Exhibit 7.1: List of stakeholders consulted 7-6

Exhibit 8.1: Comparison of Generator Emissions with various Emission Standards8-24

Exhibit 8.2: Traffic Count for Abdullah Shah Ghazi Road 8-25

Exhibit 9.1: Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan – Construction and Post Development Phase 9-10 Exhibit 9.2: Effects Monitoring Requirements 9-19

Exhibit 9.3: Suggested Training Programme 9-21


Business Dynamics-Environment Division & GEMS 1-1

CHAPTER - 1 INTRODUCTION

Galaxy Construction (Private) Limited (GCPL) as a joint venture with Bahria Town Pvt plans to construct a multiuse tower that offers commercial/and office accommodation only.

The complex is titled “Bahria Town Icon Tower” (BTIT). The structure has been designed as a tall building comprising 7 basement parking floors, split upper and lower ground floors and 59 office tower floors. It needs to be emphasized that although it is envisaged to be a “tall structure” comprising 59 upper floors, the planned structure is within confines of Karachi Building Control Authority (KBCA) Bye Laws stipulating Floor Area (FAR) of 1:5.5. Thus any conjuncture to “High Density Projects” as previously approved by KBCA with contect to NLC Insha Tower on II Chundrigar Road and IT Tower at Civic Centre where discretionary FAR of 1:12 was affoarded is substantially clarified on the project.

In order to comply with the regulatory requirements, GCPL has acquired the services of Business Dynamics Environment Division who along with Global Environmental Management Services (Pvt) Limited (GEMS), have conducted the following EIA to assess the potential environmental impacts associated with different activities of the project.

1.1 PROJECT PROPONENT

Galaxy Construction (Private) Limited aspires to be Pakistan’s builder par excellence, with projects offered to an eclectic mix of segments , at choice locations with world class amenities, while ensuring the highest international standards, timely delivery, and lifelong customer satisfaction.

In collaboration and Joint Venture with Bahria Town Pvt Ltd Galaxy Construction (Pvt)Ltd is the main Proponent of this Project “The Bahria Icon Towers “ (BTIT)

1.2 PROJECT OVERVIEW

The BTIT is a multiuse commercial building project. The building will be constructed on a 1.45 hectares (3.58 acres) area plot located in Clifton, Karachi. The main vehicular access to the proposed site is through Shahra-e-Iraq, Clifton road, 26th street, Khayaban-e-Sadi, Khayaban-e-Ghalib and Khayaban-e-Sahil. The estimated cost of the project is 10 billion Pak Rs and targeted to be completed in 2012. For project location please see location map Exhibit 1.1.



1.3 INTRODUCTION TO EIA

1.3.1 Purpose of the Study

The purpose of this EIA study is to evaluate the proposed activities against Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (Pak-EPA) standards, and against international environmental guidelines, such as those of the World Bank.

The specific objectives of this EIA are to:

• Assess the existing environmental and socioeconomic conditions at and around the project site, particularly identify any environmental and social sensitivity areas;

• Identify the likely impacts of the proposed project on the natural and socioeconomic environment, predict and evaluate these quantitatively wherever possible and determine their significance in the light of technical and regulatory concerns, as well as those related to public perceptions;

• Propose appropriate mitigation and monitoring measures that can be incorporated into the design of the proposed activities to minimize any damaging effects or lasting negative consequences identified by the assessment

• Prepare an EIA report for submittal to the Sindh Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA).

1.3.2 Scope of the EIA

This EIA covers assessment of physical, biological and socioeconomic impacts of construction and post development phases of the project.

1.3.3 Approach and Methodology

The EIA was performed in five main phases, which are described below.

a. Scoping

The key activities of this phase included:

• Project Data Compilation: A generic description of the proposed activities relevant to environmental assessment was compiled with the help of the proponent.

• Published Literature Review: Secondary data on weather, soil, water resources, wildlife, and vegetation was reviewed and compiled.

• Legislative Review: Information on relevant legislation, regulations, guidelines, and standards was reviewed and compiled.

• Identification of Potential Impacts: The information collected in the previous steps was reviewed, and potential environmental issues identified.



b. Baseline Studies

Following the scoping exercise, the project area was surveyed to collect primary data. During the field visits, information was collected on ecologically important areas, ambient air quality, surface and groundwater resources, existing and proposed roads, local communities, public services, and sites of archaeological or cultural importance.

c. Public Consultation

Consultation was held with the stakeholders as part of the assessment process.

d. Impact Assessment

The environmental, socioeconomic, and project information collected in previous phases was used to assess the potential impacts of the proposed activities. The issues studied included potential project impacts on:

• Geomorphology;

• Groundwater and surface water quality;

• Ambient air quality;

• Ecology of the area, including flora and fauna;

• Local communities.

Wherever possible and applicable, the discussion covers the following aspects:

• The present baseline conditions;

• The change in environmental parameters likely to be effected by project related activities;

• Identification of potential impacts;

• Likelihood and significance of potential impacts;

• Mitigation measures to reduce impacts to as low as possible;

• Prediction of impacts;

• Evaluation of the importance or significance of impacts;

• Implementation of mitigation measures (ie, environmental management);

• Determination of residual impacts;

• Identification of controls and monitoring of residual impacts.

e. Documentation

At the end of the assessment, a report was prepared according to the relevant guidelines of the Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency. This report includes the findings of the assessment, project impacts, and mitigation measures to be implemented during the execution of the proposed activities.



1.4 COMPONENTS OF THIS REPORT

Section 2 of this report contains an overview of national and international legislation and guidelines that are relevant to the proposed project and to this EIA. Section 3 describes the proposed project, while Section 4, 5, 6 describes the project area’s existing physical, biological and socio-economic environmental conditions respectively. Section 7 documents the process and results of public consultation. The assessment of potential project impacts associated with proposed project has been discussed in Sections 8. Section 9 provides the Environmental Management Plan (EMP) of the proposed project. Section 10 provides some Futuristic Ideas for the project, whereas Section 11 presents the conclusion of the EIA. Finally, reference information is provided at the end of the report.



CHAPTER - 2 INSTITUTIONAL, LEGISLATION

AND POLICY FRAMEWORK

The EIA of the proposed development activity will be subjected to the pertinent legislative and regulatory requirements of the Government of Pakistan. This chapter presents a synopsis of environmental policies, legislation and other guidelines that have relevance to the proposed project.

2.1 NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY, LEGISLATION AND GUIDELINES

The enactment of comprehensive legislation on the environment, covering multiple areas of concern, is a relatively new and ongoing phenomenon in Pakistan. Whereas, a basic policy and legislative framework for the protection of the environment and overall biodiversity in the country is now in place, detailed rules, regulations and guidelines required for the implementation of the policies and enforcement of legislation are still in various stages of formulation and discussion. The following section presents a brief overview of the existing national policies, legislation and guidelines.

2.1.1 National Conservation Strategy (NCS)

The National Conservation Strategy (NCS) is the primary Policy document of the Government of Pakistan on national environmental issues. The Policy was approved by the Federal Cabinet in March 1992. The Strategy also attained recognition by international donor agencies, principally the World Bank. The NCS identifies 14 core areas including conservation of biodiversity, pollution prevention and abatement, soil and water conservation and preservation of cultural heritage and recommends immediate attention to these core areas in order to preserve the country’s environment.

A midterm review of the achievements of the NCS in 2000 concluded that achievements under the NCS have been primarily awareness raising and institutional building rather than actual improvement to environment and natural resources and that the NCS was not designed and is not adequately focused as a national sustainable development strategy (GoP, November 2000). The need therefore arose for a more focused National Environmental Action Plan (NEAP) required to bring about actual improvements in the state of the national environment with greater emphasis on poverty reduction and economic development in addition to environmental sustainability.

The National Environmental Action Plan was approved by the Pakistan Environmental Protection Council under the chairmanship of the President/Chief Executive of Pakistan in February 2001. NEAP now



constitutes the national environmental agenda and its core objective is to initiate actions that safeguard public health, promote sustainable livelihoods, and enhance the quality of life of the people of Pakistan.

A National Environmental Policy has recently been approved by the Federal Cabinet in its meeting held during June 2005. This policy has already been endorsed by the Pakistan Environmental Protection Council during 2004. The new policy has total 171 guidelines on sectoral and cross-sectoral issues. The objectives of new policy include assurance of sustainable development and safeguard of the natural wealth of country. The following are the approved Sectoral Guidelines;

• Water Supply and Management;

• Air Quality and Noise;

• Waste Management;

• Forestry;

• Biodiversity and Protected Areas;

• Climate Change and Ozone Depletion;

• Energy Efficiency and Renewable;

• Agriculture and Livestock;

• Multilateral Environmental Agreements.

2.1.2 National Environmental Action Plan-Support Programme (NEAP-SP)

The Government of Pakistan and United Nations Development Program (UNDP) have jointly initiated an umbrella support program called the National Environmental Action Plan-Support Program (NEAP-SP) signed in October 2001 and implemented in 2002. The development objective supported by NEAP-SP is environmental sustainability and poverty reduction in the context of economic growth.

2.1.3 Pakistan Environmental Protection Act 1997

The Pakistan Environmental Protection Act, 1997 (PEPA 1997) is the basic legislative tool empowering the government to frame regulations for the protection of the environment. The PEPA 1997 is broadly applicable to air; water; soil, marine; and noise pollution. Penalties have been prescribed for those contravening the provisions of the Act. Under the provisions of the Act, federal and provincial EPAs have been formed which ensure enforcement of the Act in their respective areas of power.

The two primary deliberations of the Act are the conduct of projects only after approval of environmental assessments from the relevant EPA and adherence with National Environmental Quality Standards (NEQS).



Under section 12 of PEPA, no project involving construction activities or any change in the physical environment can be taken unless an IEE or EIA as required is conducted and a report submitted to the federal or provincial EPA.

2.1.4 Approval from Sindh Environment Protection Agency

As per the 2000 Regulations, GCPL has been directed by Karachi Building Control Authority to submit an EIA report to SEPA (Sindh Environment Protection Agency), and seek approval on the same from the agency. Ten hard copies and 2 soft copies of the EIA report will be need to be submitted to SEPA. SEPA will grant its decision on the EIA as per the rules and procedures set out in the 2000 Regulations. The following rules will apply:

• A fee is payable to SEPA for review of the EIA;

• The EIA submittal is to be accompanied by an application in the format prescribed in Schedule IV of the 2000 Regulations;

• SEPA is bound to conduct a preliminary scrutiny and reply within 10 days of the submittal of the report a) confirming completeness, or b) asking for additional information, if needed;

• GCPL will publish a public notice in any English or Urdu national newspaper and in a local newspaper of general circulation in the area affected by the project. The public notice will mention the following:

o The type of project;

o The location of the project;

o The name and address of the proponent;

o The places at which the EIA can be accessed;

o The date, time and place for public hearing of any comments on the project or its EIA;

• The date set for public hearing will not be earlier than 30 days from the date of publication of the public notice

• In the review process SEPA may consult a Committee of Experts, which maybe constituted on the request of the DG SEPA;

• On completion of the review process and the public hearing, the decision of SEPA will be communicated to the proponent in the form prescribed in Schedule VI;

• Where an EIA is approved, SEPA can impose additional controls as part of the conditions of approval;

• SEPA is required to make every effort to complete the EIA review process within 90 days of the issue of confirmation of completeness. However, SEPA can take up to 4 months for communication of final decision;



• The approval will remain valid for the project duration mentioned in the EIA but on the condition that the project commences within a period of three years from the date of approval. If the project is initiated after three years from approval date, the proponent will have to apply for an extension in the validity period. The SEPA on receiving such request grant extension (not exceeding 3 years at a time) or require the proponent to submit a fresh EIA if in the opinion of SEPA changes in baseline conditions or the project so warrant;

• After receiving approval from SEPA the proponent will acknowledge acceptance of the conditions of approval by executing an undertaking in the form prescribed in Schedule VII of the 2000 Regulations;

• The 2000 Regulations also require proponents to obtain from SEPA, after the end of construction phase of the project, a confirmation that the requirements of the EIA and the conditions of approval have been duly complied with;

• The SEPA in granting the confirmation of compliance may impose any additional control regarding the environmental management of the project or the operation, as it deems necessary.

2.1.5 Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency Review of IEE and EIA Regulations, 2000

The Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency Review of IEE and EIA Regulations, 2000 (The 2000 Regulations) promulgated under PEPA 1997 were enforced on 15 June, 2000. The 2000 Regulations define the applicability and procedures for preparation, submission and review of IEEs and EIAs. These Regulations also give legal status to the Pakistan Environmental Assessment Procedures prepared by the Federal EPA in 1997.

The Regulation classifies projects on the basis of expected degree of adverse environmental impacts and lists them in two separate schedules. Schedule I lists projects that may not have significant environmental impacts and therefore require an IEE. Schedule II lists projects of potentially significant environmental impacts requiring preparation of an EIA. The Regulations also require that all projects located in environmentally sensitive areas require preparation of an EIA.

The relevant categories are as follows:

Schedule I (IEE):

Urban Development and tourism

1. Housing schemes 2. Urban development projects

Schedule II (EIA)

1. Land use and urban plans in large cities 2. Large-scale tourism development projects with total cost of more than

fifty million rupees.



Although, the project cannot be clearly classified under any one of the above categories, the project cost more than Rs. 50 million, therefore, the project is categorized in Schedule II and an EIA is prepared.

2.1.6 The National Environmental Quality Standards

The NEQS promulgated under the PEPA 1997 and last revised in 2000 specify standards for industrial and municipal effluents, gaseous emissions, vehicular emissions, and noise levels. The PEPA 1997 empowers the EPA’s to impose pollution charges in case of non-compliance to the NEQS.

During the construction and post development phase of the project NEQS will apply to all effluents and emissions. NEQS for municipal and industrial effluents, selected gaseous pollutants from industrial sources and motor vehicle exhaust and noise are provided in Exhibit 2.1, Exhibit 2.2 and Exhibit 2.3. NEQS Standards for disposal of solid waste have as yet not been promulgated.

2.1.7 Local Governments Ordinance, 2001

Under the devolution programme, the Local Governments structure was introduced in the Province through the PLGO 2001 on August 14, 2001. The new local governments are Zila Councils and District Governments (City District Governments in the four provincial capitals), Tehsil Councils and Tehsil/Town Municipal Administrations (TMA) and Union Councils and Union Administrations. The PLGO 2001 provides clear functional jurisdiction for different local governments.

• According to the functions specified in section 40, the Zila Council in a City District shall approve plans having appropriate environmental controls and ecological balance. It will review implementation of rules and bye-laws governing environment and also review development of integrated system of water reservoirs, water sources, treatment plants, drainage, liquid and solid waste disposal, sanitation and other municipal services;

• According to the clause 53, Tehsil Officer (Infrastructure and Services) shall be responsible for water, sewerage, drainage, sanitation, roads, other than Provincial and district roads, streets and street lighting; fire fighting, park services;

• According to the functions specified in section 54, the functions and powers of the Tehsil Municipal Administration shall be to provide, manage, operate, maintain and improve the municipal infrastructure and services, including water supply and control and development of water sources; sewerage, sewage and sewage treatment and disposal; storm water drainage; sanitation and solid waste collection and sanitary disposal of solid and liquid wastes;



• According to the clause 80, Union Nazim shall report to the concerned authorities in respect of environmental and health hazards within the area of the union;

• Depending upon the economies of scale and nature of infrastructure the City District Government may vary grouping of offices and set up district municipal offices for integrated development and management of the services like Environmental control, including control of air, water, and soil pollution in accordance with federal and provincial laws and standards;

• In Sixth schedule (see section 195), pg 156 clause 48 exclusively authorize local governments to work for environmental protection.

2.1.8 Land Acquisition Act, 1894

The Land Acquisition Act (LAA) of 1894 amended from time to time has been the defacto policy governing land acquisition, resettlement and compensation in the country. The LAA is the most commonly used law for acquisition of land and other properties for development projects. It comprises of 55 sections pertaining to area notifications and surveys, acquisition, compensation and apportionment awards and disputes resolution, penalties and exemptions.

2.1.9 Karachi Building and Town Planning Regulations 2002

These regulations shall super cede the Karachi Building and Town Planning Regulation, 1979. These regulations shall apply to the whole city district of Karachi but shall not apply to the cantonment area of the projects of the national security declared by the federal government. In order to meet emergency conditions and the regulations of the persons in the sub-economic income government may declare special areas where these regulations may be relaxed for a specific period. Under these regulation following are the important information related to design and operation of this project.

a. Sanitation and Solid Waste

• In case recycling plant or treatment of effluent/sewage are provided, all requirements for construction and maintenance as set by National Environmental Quality Standard (NEQS) shall be followed;

• In all public sale projects the central waste disposal system shall be provided by the developer;

• Where no public sewer is in existence, all sewage shall be posed off after properly treating, through digester or septic tank and effluent shall be discharged safely into a soak pit as a temporary measure till such time as a system is laid out;

• Ventilating pipe shall be provided in all stacks carrying wastewater or sewage, in accordance with the plumbing code;



• At every change of alignment, gradient or diameter of a drain, there shall be a manhole or inspection chamber. Bends and junctions in the drains shall be grouped together in manholes as far as possible;

• The roofs of every building and the floor or balconies abutting on a street or constructed over a street, shall be so constructed or framed as to permit effectual drainage of the rain water there from, by means of a sufficient number of leaders of adequate sizes, so arranged, jointed, and Ii ed as to ensure that the rain water is carried away from the building without causing dampness in any part of the walls, or foundations of the walls, or foundations of the building, or those of an adjacent building, provided the fall is not greater than 20 ft. (6m) in case of spouts;

• A leader shall not discharge into or connect with any soil pipe or its ventilating pipe, or any waste pipe or its ventilating pipe, nor shall it discharge into a sewer;

• Rain water from leader spouts etc. shall not discharge onto a public street at a height greater than l2 inch (300mm) from that street, or onto a neighboring property.

b. Fire Resistant and Fire Precautions

Requirements for Fire Prevention and Fire Extinguishing shall be the following:

• All buildings which are ground plus three storeys or above or more than 43 ft.(13m) high shall be provided a set stand pipe/pipes as given below:

o Buildings over 8 storeys in height shall be equipped with not less than 4 inch (10cm) diameter stand pipe.

• In so far as practicable, stand pipes shall be located with outlets within stairway enclosures but if these are not available the stand pipes shall be located in a common corridor. In any case, one shall be located in the main;

• Stand pipes shall be provided in every storey;

• The stand pipes shall be fed by an over head water tank reserved solely for this purpose;

• Automatic Sprinkler System shall be provided in the following:

o In covered car parking areas in building for which upper storeys are designed for other uses when such parking area exceeds 5000 sq.ft (464.6 sq.m);

o All areas of theatres except auditorium, music hall, and lobbies;

o No sprinkler provision should be made in the immediate vicinity of generators or any electrical equipment;

• Manual fire extinguishers shall be provided as follows:



o One extinguisher in each 2400 sq.ft. (223 sq.m) of area of public assembly buildings, but not less than one on each occupied floor, and not less than one in each lab, workshop or vocational room;

o At lease one extinguisher on each floor at stairway landing and in corridor at each lift or group of lifts in residential and commercial buildings;

o Installation of Interior Fire Alarm System;

o All office buildings more than five (5) storeys in height and with occupancy area of more than 100,000 sq. ft. (9293.68 sq.m) above the ground floor;

o All Cinemas, theatres and similar places of public assembly;

c. Temporary works in connection with Building operations

• No part of any street shall be used in connection with the construction, repair or demolition of any building except with the written permission of the Concerned Authority. Any person holding such permission shall put up and maintain to the satisfaction of the Concerned Authority, fences or barriers in order to separate the building work from such street. Where such separation is not possible he shall make arrangement for the security of public to the satisfaction of the Concerned Authority;

• Any person causing any building material or other things to be deposited, any excavation to be made, or any hoarding to be erected shall at his own expense cause sufficient and adequate red lights to be fixed upon or near the same and shall continue such lights every night from sunset to sunrise while such materials, hoardings, things or excavation remain. In addition to above, red flags of reflectorized material shall be provided during daytime;

• Any excavation is to be sufficiently fenced until it is filled up;

• All material, hoarding, fences or other obstructions on any street shall be kept clear of any fire hydrants if any, and, other utility service installations, or alternative arrangements shall be made and precautions shall be taken according to the laid down procedure of the utility agencies and to the satisfaction of the Concerned Authority to divert or keep clear of obstruction of any roadside or other drain during the period of temporary obstruction;

• All obstructions shall be removed within seven (7) days of the completion of the work and the street and all drains and public utility installations shall be left in clean, tidy and in serviceable conditions;

• No excavation or dewatering or earthwork or demolition of, a building which is likely to effect the stability of adjacent building shall be stated or continued unless steps before and during the work to prevent the collapse/damage of any adjacent building or the fall of any part of it;



• Adequate safety measures shall, where necessary, be provided and used to protect any persons from falling. Vice versa material shall not be placed or stocked near the edge of any excavation so as to endanger persons working below;

• No load shall be placed or moved near the edge of any excavation, where it is likely to cause a collapse of the side of the excavation and/or endanger any person.

d. Zoning Regulations

In addition to the general conditions special conditions applicable to different categories of plots shall be applicable.

• A building intended to carry out dangerous and offensive trades, trades emitting obnoxious smell, factories and mills which produce noise, smell, smoke or other nuisance shall not be allowed to be constructed on commercial plots;

• The restricted flying gap and safety zone as prescribed by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and PAF shall be taken into consideration while determining the height of the building. Although CAA NOC is not required because site is more than 15 km away from the air port;

• The height of the building shall not be above the podium level of 91 ft. (27.72 m) MSL within 3/4 mile (1.2 K.m) radius of Quaid e-Azam's Mausoleum.

2.1.10 Sindh Regulation and Control Ordinance, 2002

An ordinance is to provide for the regulation and control of the use of plots and construction of buildings in the province of Sindh. According to this ordinance:

• No plot shall be used for any other purpose other than the purpose for which it was except with the approval of the authority.

2.1.11 Pakistan Penal Code (1860)

The Pakistan Penal Code (1860) authorizes fines, imprisonment or both for voluntary corruption or fouling of public springs or reservoirs so as to make them less fit for ordinary use.

2.2 NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL GUIDELINES OR STANDARDS

2.2.1 The Pakistan Environmental Assessment Procedures, 1997

The Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency prepared the Pakistan Environmental Assessment Procedures in 1997. They are based on much of the existing work done by international donor agencies and Non



Governmental Organizations (NGO’s). The package of regulations prepared by PEPA includes:

• Policy and Procedures for Filing, Review and Approval of Environmental Assessments;

• Guidelines for the Preparation and Review of Environmental Reports;

• Guidelines for Public Consultation;

• Guidelines for Sensitive and Critical Areas; and

• Sectoral Guidelines for various type of projects.

2.2.2 World Bank Guidelines on Environment

The principal World Bank publications that contain environmental guidelines are listed below.

• Environmental Assessment-Operational Policy 4.01. Washington, DC, USA. World Bank 1999.

• Environmental Assessment Sourcebook, Volume I: Policies, Procedures, and Cross-Sectoral Issues. World Bank Technical Paper Number 139, Environment Department, the World Bank, 1991,

The first two publications provide general guidelines for the conduct of EIA’s, and address the EIA practitioners themselves as well as project designers. While the Sourcebook in particular has been designed with Bank projects in mind, and is especially relevant for the impact assessment of large-scale infrastructure projects, it contains a wealth of useful information, for environmentalists and project proponents.

The Sourcebook identifies a number of areas of concern, which should be addressed during impact assessment. It sets out guidelines for the determination of impacts, provides a checklist of tools to identify possible biodiversity issues and suggests possible mitigation measures. Possible development project impacts on wild lands, wetlands, forests etc. are also identified and mitigation measures suggested.

The World Bank Guidelines for noise are provided in Exhibit 2.4. The indicative IFC guideline values applicable to sanitary wastewater discharges are shown in Exhibit 2.5.

2.2.3 Civil Safe Employee: Australian Health and Safety Handbook

This guideline contains some basic information and guidance that may help to ensure own safety at work and help to ensure the safety of others. Work related injuries and illnesses clearly impact on the whole country so it is in everybody’s interest to improve our health and safety performance.

The first part of this booklet contains general information about occupational health and safety and rights and responsibilities. The second part describes



some hazards that are common to the civil construction industry and what to do about them.

2.2.4 Environmental Guidelines for Major Construction Sites

The environmental guidelines of Australian Environment Protection Authority for major construction sites provide a useful source document to help prepare and implement an environmental management plan for major constructions sites. The purpose of these guidelines is to provide developers, contractors and government agencies involved with commissioning or constructing freeways, major roads or major development projects with:

• Information how to avoid and minimise environmental impact, which is preferable to the less cost-effective option of controlling or treating discharges to the environment, or undertaking remedial action.

• Information on the likely impact of construction activities on the environment and how this is to be assessed.

• Guidelines for undertaking risk assessment and management

A clear statement of environmental performance objectives for each segment of the environment.



Exhibit 2.1: NEQS for Municipal and Industrial Effluentsa

Parameters Into Inland Water

Into Sewage Treatmentb

Temperature or temperature increasec ≤3°C ≤3°C

pH 6-9 6-9

Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD5) at 20oCd

80 250

Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD)d 150 400

Total Suspended Solids (TSS) 200 400

Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) 3,500 3,500

Grease and oil 10 10

Phenolic compounds (as phenol) 0.1 0.3

Chloride (as Cl–) 1,000 1,000

Fluoride (as F) 10 10

Total cyanide (as CN-) 1.0 1.0

An-ionic detergents (as MBAS)e 20 20

Sulphate (SO4) 600 1000

Sulphide (S-) 1.0 1.0

Ammonia (NH3) 40 40

Pesticidesf 0.15 0.15

Cadmiumg 0.1 0.1

Chromium (trivalent & hexavalent)g 1.0 1.0

Copperg 1.0 1.0

Leadg 0.5 0.5

Mercuryg 0.01 0.01

Seleniumg 0.5 0.5

Nickelg 1.0 1.0

Silverg 1.0 1.0

Total Toxic metals 2.0 2.0

Zinc 5.0 5.0

Arsenicg 1.0 1.0

Bariumg 1.5 1.5



Parameters Into Inland Water

Into Sewage Treatmentb

Iron 8.0 8.0

Manganese 1.5 1.5

Borong 6.0 6.0

Chlorine 1.0 1.0

Source: Qadar (2003)

Notes a All values are in mg/l, unless otherwise defined b Applicable only when and where sewage treatment is operational and BOD5=80 mg/L is achieved by the sewage treatment system c The effluent should not result in temperature increase of more than 3°C at the edge of zone where initial mixing and dilution take place in the receiving body. In case zone is defined, use 100 meters from the point of discharge d Assuming minimum dilution 1:10 on discharge, lower ratio would attract progressively stringent standards to be determined by the Federal Environmental Protection Agency. By 1:10 dilution means, for example that for each one cubic meter of treated effluent, the recipient water body should have 10 cubic meter of water for dilution of this effluent e Modified Benzene Alkyl Sulphate; assuming surfactant as biodegradable f Pesticides include herbicide, fungicides and insecticides g Subject to the total toxic metals discharge should not exceed level of total toxic metals



Exhibit 2.2: NEQS for Selected Gaseous Pollutants from Industrial Sourcesa

Parameter Source of emission Standard

Smoke Any 40% or 2 Ringlemann scale or equivalent smoke number

Particulate matterb Boilers and furnaces:

Oil fired 300

Coal fired 500

Cement kilns 300

Grinding, crushing, clinker coolers and related processes, metallurgical processes, converter blast furnaces and cupolas

500

Hydrogen chloride Any 400

Chlorine Any 150

Hydrogen fluoride Any 150

Hydrogen sulfide Any 10

Sulfur oxidesc Sulfuric acid/Sulfonic acid plants

5,000

Other plants except power plants operating on oil and coal

1,700

Carbon monoxide Any 800

Lead Any 50

Mercury Any 10

Cadmium Any 20

Arsenic Any 20

Copper Any 50

Antimony Any 20

Zinc Any 200

Oxides of nitrogend Nitric acid manufacturing unit

3,000

Other plants except power plants operating on oil or coal:



Parameter Source of emission Standard

Oil Fired 400

Coal fired 600

Cement kilns 1,200


Notes:

a All values are in mg/Nm3, unless otherwise defined

b Based on the assumption that the size of the particulates is 10 micron or more

c Based on 1% sulphur content in fuel oil. Higher content of sulphur will cause standards to be pro-rated

d In respect of the emissions of the sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, the power plants operating on oil or coal as fuel shall, in addition to NEQS specified above, comply with the following standards

Exhibit 2.3: NEQS for Motor Vehicle Exhaust and Noise

Parameter Standard Measuring Method

Smoke 40% or 2 on the Ringlemann scale during engine acceleration mode

To be compared with Ringlemann Chart at a distance of 6 meters or more

Carbon Monoxide

New vehicles: 4.5% Used vehicles: 6%

Under idling conditions, non-dispersive infrared detection through gas analyzer

Noise 85 dB (A) Sound-meter at 7.5 meters from the source


Notes: a 10 years or older



Exhibit 2.4: World Bank Guidelines for Noise Levels a

No Receptor Day (07:00-22:00)

Night (22:00-07:00)

1. Residential, institutional educational

55 45

2. Industrial,commercial 70 70

Source: Pollution Prevention and Abatement Handbook World Bank Group (1998).

Notes: a Maximum allowable log equivalent (hourly measurements,) in dB (A)

Exhibit 2.5: Indicative IFC Values of Treated Sanitary Sewage Discharges a

Pollutants Units Guideline Value

pH pH 6-9

Biochemical oxygen demand ( BOD)

mg/L 30

Chemical oxygen demand ( COD)

mg/L 125

Total nitrogen mg/L 10

Total phosphorus mg/L 2

Oil and grease mg/L 10

Total suspended solid (TSS)

mg/L 50

Total coliform bacteria

MPNa/100ml 400

Notes

a Not applicable to centralized, municipal, wastewater treatment systems which are included in EHS Guidelines for Water and Sanitation.

b MPN= Most Probable Number



CHAPTER - 3 PROJECT DESCRIPTION

Galaxy Construction (Private) Limited (GCPL) as a joint venture with Bahria Town Pvt plans to construct a multiuse tower that offers commercial/and office accommodation only.

The complex is titled “Bahria Town Icon Tower” (BTIT) and will be a tall structure comprising of 68 floors out of which 7 are underground parking areas with two ground floors and as per Floor Area Ratio FAR the project is designed at 1:5.5 .

The BTIT is a multiuse commercial building project. The building will be constructed on a 1.45 hectares (3.58 acres) area plot located in Clifton, Karachi. The main vehicular access to the proposed site is through Shahra-e-Iraq, Clifton road, 26th street, Khayaban-e-Sadi, Khayaban-e-Ghalib and Khayaban-e-Sahil. The estimated cost of the project is 10 billion Pak Rs and targeted to be completed in 2012.

3.1 PURPOSE OF THE PROJECT

The main purpose of the project is to provide commercial/office accommodation . It is envisaged that the BTIT will also provide infrastructure for a variety of other uses, with a view to becoming the ultimate in convenience for anyone seeking to work and enjoy their leisure time in a self-contained location for business and finance.

Although the principle purpose of the BTIT relates to the economic development of the city of Karachi at national level, the proposed development also aims to:

• Go beyond current development standards in Karachi in terms of comfort and convenience;

• Demonstrate environmental responsibility;

• Be fully integrated with and supplement the existing infrastructure in the city;

• Enable working and recreation within a self-contained location; and

• Adopt a strategic approach to transport.

Non-governmental and international sources have estimated that Karachi's current population is about 18 million, and is currently growing at a rate of 5% per year (primarily due to in migration). Assuming the population is continued to grow at the same rate, it is estimated that there is a need to



add office space and commercial facilities to cater the office space availability in Karachi.

3.2 CONCEPT

The signature structure of the Bahria ICON is the Office Tower Building. It will become the torchbearer of a new trend in development that will ultimately lead to the metamorphosis of the Karachi cityscape.

The Icon tower is a high-rise tower which comprises of 60 floors along with seven level of parking space while the other are for offices, consumers, and public. Initial estimate suggest that allocated parking space will accommodate approximately 2,500 cars.

Retail areas are spread out on the Ground Floor, Mezzanine, Level-1, Level-2, and Level-3. As the users proceed from a separate entrance towards the retail areas, the escalator filters them through a food court located on the Mezzanine Level. Located on Level-3 will be a fully equipped Fitness Club, and on Level-4 a Swimming Pool. The building is also equipped with a helipad. Site plan view of tower is shown in Exhibit 3.1 whereas the drawing highlighting different disciplines of the building is shown in Exhibit 3.2.

3.3 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS IN DESIGN

The Master Plan encourages multiple uses. Moreover, it promotes the adoption of sustainable development principles in the design of building.

Environmental performance of the BTIT will be improved through the combination of the following strategies:

• adoption of measures for mitigating energy consumption;

• use of construction materials from sustainable sources;

• minimization of waste generation;

• maximization of opportunities for passive ventilation/cooling;

• maximization of the use of passive energy systems, by adopting building layouts that optimize exposure to wind effects;

• specification of appropriate material performances; and

• adoption of energy efficient mechanical systems.

3.4 LOCATION, STATUS AND SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES

3.4.1 Project Location

The proposed site for BTIT is Located on Plot No. 5, Clifton Quarters, Karachi. The proposed site is accessible through Abdullah Shah Ghazi Road, running east to west direction. The site has a natural topographic level difference of approximately 4500 mm which will be excavated to level the difference and



used for multi level basement parking. The ground level is 11,500 mm above mean sea level. The proposed site is in the middle of the most popular land marks of Karachi. The proposed site is bound on the east by Abdullah Shah Ghazi Mazaar, west by Bagh-e-Ibne-e-Qasim, south-southwest by the Clifton Beach and Funland amusement park, and north-northwest by the historic Mohatta Palace Museum and Park Towers.

3.4.2 Project Status

The project was initiated on October 2008 with commencement of Secant Piling along periphery of the plot in order to secure adjacent properties and communication/ municipal infrastructure after due approval by KBCA. Subsequent also to approval of architectural design by KBCA, excavation works, creation of haul routes and foundation works have been undertaken. The project is scheduled for completion by June 2012.

3.4.3 Schedule of activities

The first version of the conceptual design of the proposed development (Master Plan) was completed in August 2008 and is due to be revised/finalized in September 2008. It is anticipated that construction of the proposed development will be concluded in 2012.

3.4.4 Construction and Commissioning

The construction will involve earthworks (land clearing, leveling, and excavations); construction of sub-structures (piling, foundations), super-structures for the tower facility, and peripheral walls and mechanical and electrical works. The construction will use and employ standard construction raw materials (cement, sand, steel reinforcement, bricks etc) and construction practices.

3.4.5 Construction Equipment and Machinery

Conventional machinery and equipment will be used for a variety of construction activities. The equipment and machinery will mainly include Dozers, Excavators, Loaders, Tower crane, Mobile crane, lorry, Dump Trucks, Back hoe, Bar bending machine, Water browser, Material hoist, Passenger hoist, Mixers, Drilling rigs, Concrete placement booms and Power generators. Power generators will produce electricity for site office/camp and building. Batching plants have been located in satellite locations about 3 & 10 KM away from site.

3.4.6 Civil Works

Civil works will involve excavation, piling, formwork, reinforcement, concreting, masonry, plastering, painting, tinsmith's, and also waterproofing work with gas-flame sticking, construction of light separating walls, hung ceilings, flooring, lining and facing.



Major works at the start of project will be institution of work piles, laying of raft foundation, blind and water proofing. It would however, be pertinent to denote that site although located at seafront, the strata is natural bedrock and therefore minimal/negligible subsoil water needs to be dewatered.

The mechanical, electrical and plumbing works will essentially consist of the following:

• HVAC Systems;

• Chilled Water Distribution;

• Heating, Air Conditioning and Ventilation;

• Hot and Cold Water Distribution;

• Foul and Storm Water Drainage;

• Fire Protection & Life Safety Systems;

• Car Park Ventilation;

• Electrical Distribution;

• Lighting Installations;

• Emergency Lighting Installations;

• Lightning Protection;

• Building Management Systems.

The building services philosophy is based on the provision of a centralized energy centre providing on-site generated electricity, chilled water and hot water to power, cool and heat the development utilizing plant based on the following criteria.

• Capability to generate the full quantum of electricity required for the project rising either natural gas or fuel oil to protect against seasonal outages and pressure reductions in the natural gas supplies;

• Generate the maximum amount of “Free’ air-conditioning using waste heat recovery from Genset exhausts.

Chilled water distribution will be from the Central Plant / Energy Centre to the Air handling units room at the podium levels and up through users in the core for chilled water supply to the AH rooms on the typical floors.

Air-conditioning for the project is mainly based on all air constant volume systems except for fan coils in certain areas. Heating is not required in Karachi. Ventilation for basements / car parks will use Jet flow fans and central air supply and exhaust to and from the parking levels via shafts.

Water supplies for the project are assumed to be from municipal sources. Three days storage at basement levels will be provided, appropriate water treatment and filtration capability will be provided as required.



A grey water treatment plant will be provided, which will treat wastewater from Floor Drains, Basins and Showers (if any); this will then be used for cooling tower makeup.

The entire building will be sprinkler systems designed to NFPA, whilst NFPA calls for a one hour fire reserve of water we are proposing a two hour reserve given local conditions.

Electrical distribution is based on 11 KV Power Generation as this is the most cost effective option and allows for future integration with KESC grid if required. The 11 KV supply shall be stepped down to 400 Volts using appropriately sited transformers.

Emergency lighting installations will be powered by a central battery system. The entire project shall be protected for earth leakage and shock by an earthing system. Lightning Protection System shall be provided for the building.

A Building Management System will be provided encompassing the entire Mechanical and Electrical Plant. The system shall be able to control and operate the equipment and facilities and provide key fault alarms.

The utility loads for the development are summarized as follows:

Electricity Peak Load = 23 MW

Domestic Water = 519030 l/day

Cooling Tower Water = 1100763 l/day

Cooling Demand = 28.19 MW (or 8,000 TR)

The plant room for the Energy Centre has been coordinated with the building architecture and includes the power generation equipment, chillers, heat recovery equipments, heat exchangers, pumps, electrical rooms and all related equipment. Cooling Towers are located on the roof of the plant room area.

a. Captive Power Generation System

Captive power will be generated to meet the power requirements of the building. An in house power plant will be built and operated for this purpose. The electric connected and demand loads of the facility have been estimated at 23 MW and 28 MW respectively. The air-conditioning plant load is about 8000 TR while the diversified load is 7200 TR. The plant size will be around 9000 TR.

At the moment, two options studied for captive power generation include an option of using a mix of Gas Turbines and Gensets (both Gas and Fuel Oil) for the production of Electrical Power while using a mix of ‘Multi Energy’ and direct fired absorption chillers all having ‘dual fuel’ capability.



Option-I: Central gas-turbine power generation using gas turbines and a mix of gas and diesel gensets ‘multi energy’ refrigeration. The main features of this scheme are described below:

a. This scheme uses dual-fueled power plant comprised of gas-turbine power generators and a mix of Gas and Diesel Gensets, and Multi Energy absorption chillers.

b. The gas-turbines are base loaded (12 MW) and supported by three diesel and three gas engine generators with a capacity of 3 MW each. This will give us an N+1 redundancy arrangement so that the loss of one turbine for scheduled or unscheduled repair / maintenance will not affect the plant’s capability to provide sufficient electric power to the project at all times.

c. The refrigeration equipment is comprised of multi energy fired absorption refrigeration units. The units are equipped with Dual fuel burners.

Option-II: Central gas-engine and diesel engine power generation and a mix of multi energy and direct fired absorption chillers. The main features of this scheme are described below:

a. This scheme uses a centrally located Gas-Engine and Diesel Engine power plant and a mix of multi Energy and Direct fired absorption chillers.

b. The Gas-Engine Gensets are backed by Diesel Gensets. This will give an N+1 redundancy arrangement so that the loss of one Gas Genset for scheduled or unscheduled repair / maintenance will not affect the plant’s capability to provide sufficient electric power to the project at all times.

c. The refrigeration equipment is comprised of multi Energy and Direct Fired Absorption refrigeration units. The number of multi Energy Chillers is proportional to the waste heat recovery from the gas gensets.

The following table indicates the relative merits of each option.

Options Waste Heat Elec. Efficiency

Dual Fuel

Technology Capital Cost Remarks

Option-I Excessive

needs to be vented

28% Yes Complex High High

Option-II Fully utilized 40% Yes Simple Low Preferred

option

The Electrical power generation will be at 11 KV to economize on equipment costs. 11 KV outputs from the various generators will be synchronized. If at any future date KESC supplies are to be integrated into the system these can



be synchronized at the 11 KV bus. After synchronization electrical power will be stepped down to 400 volts for distribution. Transformers will be centrally located.

b. Energy Saving

During the concept of the design we intend to consider and evaluate the following:

• Variable Speed Pumping;

• Variable Speed Airside Equipment;

• High Delta ‘T’ chilled water flow – this translates to smaller pipes, lower flows and pumping costs;

• Building Envelope Thermal Performance study, to optimize design and reduce energy consumption;

• Occupancy sensor driven temperature reset;

• Variable Air Volume Primary Air distribution based on CO2 monitoring and pressurization requirements;

• Air-to-Air Energy Recovery using ERW’s, and Heat Pipes for humidity control;

c. Plumbing Services

The plumbing services covered in this section are:

• Domestic Water Supplies

o Cold Water

o Hot Water

• Irrigation

• Foul Drainage

• Storm Drainage

• Fire Water

Domestic Water Supplies

The total domestic water demand per days will be 579 m3/days. Additionally, it is estimated that in peak summer cooling tower losses amount to approximately 1,100 m3/day. This makes a total domestic water demand of 1,679 m3/day. However, a grey water treatment plant could contribute towards reducing the cooling tower demand.

Irrigation Water Supplies

Approximately 20 m3/day based will be used on the green areas earmarked in the master plan.



Foul Drainage

The total peak drainage (soil + waste) outflow is estimated at 16 liters per sec.

Storm Water

The peak rainfall storm rate will be 100mm/h (4 in/hr.).

Fire Water

There will be a 2 hours fire reserve which translates to storage of 454 m3 of fire water.

d. Electrical Systems

Internal Lighting

The general principles that underpin the lighting scheme are listed below.

• Maximize the opportunities afforded by natural light;

• Provide adequate and appropriate levels of light for the functions and activities of different areas;

• Provide a balance between functionality, color, texture and contrast;

• Provide an appropriate expression of the architecture within the building and outside of the building;

• Limit environmental impact and light pollution;

• Use low energy technologies wherever possible and appropriate without compromising visual comfort and utility;

• Use of long life source to assist in the reduction of maintenance costs;

• Limit the number of lamp and equipment type to assist in the reduction of maintenance costs;

• Use automated lighting control, presence detection and similar facilities to manage energy;

• Integrate with other systems to provide for the requirements of emergency lighting, fire alarm, security and cleaning, etc;

• Integration with ceiling systems and mechanical designs.

The appropriate lamp selection will take account of:

• Lighting output;

• Color rendering index;

• Color temperature;

• Life;

• Cost in use;

• Environmental impact;

• Recommended applications;



• Flexibility of the system.

Emergency Lighting

An average of 10 Lux is required within defined escape routes and 0.5 Lux in open plan areas. The emergency lighting will have a minimum duration of three hours.

Emergency lighting will be designed and detailed on plans showing the layout of the building proposed escape route, fire alarm call points, and all fire fighting equipment and indicating the various obstructions to escape. The design of the escape lighting will fulfill the following functions:

• To indicate clearly and unambiguously the escape routes;

• To provide illumination onto and along such routes as to allow safe movement towards and through the exists provided to a place of safety;

• To ensure that fire alarm call points and fire fighting equipment provided along escape routers can be readily located and used.

Fire Alarm System/ Voice Evacuation System

The whole building will be served by an intelligent addressable automatic fire detection and alarm system. The fire detection system will be designed to comprise of the following systems:

• Main fire detection panels located in the main entrance or security control room. These panels will be networked together in order to receive all the information throughout the building on each panel. These panels will receive all alarm and status signals and have full functional control over the system and be capable of interfacing to a site wide system.

• Automatic and manual detection device such as smoke detectors, heat detectors, call points, air sampling tubes etc.

• Input and output devices to interface with plant such as smoke dampers, stairs pressurization etc.

Smoke detection will be provided in all offices, rooms, service areas, plant rooms, functional room, corridors, air handling plant, lift lobbies and within areas of risk as described by standards mentioned above. Manual call points will be provided as per standards at all floor levels and at all entry exit points to manually activate the fire alarm system.

The fire detection system will control and monitor the following systems:

• Smoke vents;

• Smoke dampers;

• Make-up air vents;

• Smoke extract fans;

• Ventilation plant;



• Stair pressurization;

• Integrated building management system.

Gas Detection System

This system will provide an early detection system for suffocation of CO gas at parking levels and will comply with NFPA & BS regulations.

The Gas Detection System will operate in two areas

• Basement covered car parking to provide carbon monoxide detection. This will be a part of Intelligent Fire Alarm System and will be interlocked with the ventilation systems;

• Cooking Gas or heating Gas leakage detection and annunciation.

3.5 PUBLIC UTILITY INFRASTRUCTURE ON SITE

A variety of utility lines run along/close to the site, including electricity, gas, telecommunications, water supply and wastewater sewers. Generally, utility lines are located along the main roads. The proponent intends to rely on its own power generation sources for power requirement.

3.6 RESOURCE USE

3.6.1 Staffing/Population

a. Construction phase

The construction of the proposed development will involve approximately 300~400 workers on site. The construction contractor and its sub-contractors will also hire locals for various skilled and unskilled jobs. However all the staff and labour will be housed away from the site and commute daily and hence no pollution threats from residents on site is expected

b. Post development phase

Following construction, BTIT will be capable to house around 4,000-6,000 including visitors.

3.6.2 Construction Materials and other supplies

Main construction material to be used during the construction activities will include paving stones, cement and cement blocks, crush, gravel, steel and sand.

The materials will be transported by trucks to the project site, where they will be stored until moved to different locations as and when required. Paints, glass, wood, tiles, aluminium, PVC/GI pipes, concrete/cement pipes, electric cables, marble etc, will also be used during the different phases of the construction activities.



Materials like paving stones, crush, gravel and sand will be brought from commercial quarries located in Sindh and Balochistan province. The nearest sand and gravel quarries are located at Nooriabad, Malir and Hub.

It is estimated that 113,000 cu.m of soil will be excavated for the construction of basements. Depth of excavation will be approximately 4.5 m from ground level.

Crush, gravel and sand will be dumped at concrete batching plants at satellite locations outside of site location and prepared concrete mix will be transported to site through transit mixers.

3.6.3 Use of water

a. Construction phase

During construction phase 400 m3 of water will be required during summer on a daily basis to carry out the various construction activities. During winter season the estimated quantity of water required will be about 300 m3 due to reduction in water usage. Water requirement during construction phase of the project will be bought from local water tankers and topped up by the Municipal Supplies

b. Post development

Water requirement during post development phase of the project will be sourced from water supply. Moreover treated wastewater will be used for flushing and other sanitary purposes. A grey water treatment plant is proposed to treat water before discharging it to drainage network. Additionally water collected from chillers will also be reused.

The total domestic water demand during the post development phase will be approximately 1,619 m3/day. However, a grey water treatment plant could contribute towards reducing the cooling tower demand.

3.6.4 Noise, Wastes and Emissions

Categories of wastes generated during construction and post development phase are discussed below.

3.6.5 Noise

Sources of noise during construction and post development phase are listed below:



a. Construction

• Operation of generator at construction camp;

• Movement of vehicles;

• Operation of equipment and machinery (e.g. earthworks, piling etc);

• Operation of Concrete Batching Plant.

b. Post development

• Operations of generators

• Movement of vehicles

3.6.6 Solid Waste

Municipal Solid Waste – Solid waste include combustible, Recyclable or re-usable waste and biodegradable waste. Solid waste will be collected, transported and disposed off by following the current practices of CDGK.

Medical/Clinical wastes/hazardous wastes – these will be segregated and stored separately from other wastes and shall be incinerated.

3.6.7 Wastewater disposal

a. Construction

The domestic sewage generated at the construction camp and offices will mainly comprise of grey and black water. At present the project site is largely undeveloped in nature and number of settlements and offices exist in the surroundings of the project area. Wastewater from the office and construction camp will be discharge into KWSB Sewerage system.

b. Post development

Wastewater will be reused after treatment while the remaining portion will be discharged in to KWSB sewerage system according to NEQS Limit.

3.6.8 Emissions

Emissions during construction and post development phase will include:

a. Construction

• Dust emissions due to earthworks, construction activity, transportation of materials and from stock piles;

• Operation of generators will produce CO2, CO, SOx, NOx etc;

• Vehicular emissions;

• Emissions from heavy equipment and machinery;

• These will be controlled by proper water sprinkling and good construction management.



b. Post development

• During post development phase there would be no dust emissions as a result of vehicular movement due to presence of paved surfaces and no earth works;

• Exhaust emissions from vehicles;

• Emissions from power generators.

There would be no dust emissions as a result of vehicular movement due to presence of paved surfaces and no earth works. Other air emissions would include:

• Exhaust emissions from vehicles

• Emissions from power generators and

• Exhaust air from heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.

The significant emissions would be from the power generators and would include pollutant gases such as Carbon dioxide (CO2), Carbon monoxide (CO), oxides of nitrogen (NOx) and Sulfur (SOx). The stack emission parameters from the backup generator are provided in Exhibit 3.3.

3.6.9 Other wastes

a. Construction and post development

• Inert construction materials, aggregate debris, steel, concrete blocks, pile cuttings etc

• Used lubricating oil/filters

• Oily rags

• Contaminated soils

• Miscellaneous chemicals

3.7 ALTERNATIVE SITES

No alternative sites were considered for the BTIT development. Various alternatives related to energy sources, mechanical, electrical and building design have been considered before finalization of each. The relevant details are provided in the Project Description Section of the EIA report.



Exhibit 3.3: Stack Emission Parameters for Generators

Parameter Value Unit

Fuel Gas

Total number of generators 4

Generator capacity 6 MW

Stack height 46 m

Stack diameter 1.5 m

Flue gas discharge rate 80,000 m3/s

Flue gas temperature 520 0C

Emission rates

Carbon monoxide (CO) 50 mg/Nm3

Oxides of Nitrogen NOx 400 mg/Nm3

Sulphur Dioxide SOx Negligible mg/Nm3

Particulate matter PM10 Negligible mg/Nm3



Exhibit 3.4: Pictorial Profile: Project Site

Project Site

Construction Machinery at Project Site

Bagh-e-Ibn-e-Qasim: Project Area Surroundings

Construction Machinery at Project Site

Site Offices

Shrine of Abdullah Shah Ghazi: Project

Area Surroundings



CHAPTER 4 ENVIRONMENTAL BASELINE:

PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT

The existing physical environmental conditions of the project area are described in this section. Information for this section was collected from a variety of sources, including published literature, surveys conducted for other studies in the area, and those that were conducted specifically for this study.

Much of the information on topography and land use, geophysical, climate and water resources came from published literature and previously conducted studies. The information given in the sections on air, sound, soil, and water quality is the result of detailed field surveys conducted specifically for this EIA.

4.1 TOPOGRAPHY AND LAND USE

The district of Karachi South lies between the low land of Lyari river and Malir River. The deltaic plain is composed of alluvium and marine deposits. The Gizri creek is the marshy and swampy area. The height of the city limits does not generally exceed 100 ft above the mean sea level. The coastal belt of the district is barren and flat which at one time was predominantly filled with sand dunes, which are now crowded with new posh societies including DHA, Clifton, Bath Island and various plazas1.

Karachi may be broadly divided into two parts; the hilly areas in the north and west and an undulating plain and coastal area in the south-east. The hills in Karachi are the off-shoots of the Kirthar Range. The highest point of these hills in Karachi is about 528m in the extreme north. All these hills are devoid of vegetation and have wide intervening plains, dry river beds and water channels. Karachi has a long coastline in the south. The coast line stretches from Cape Monze in the south west to Korangi / Phitti Creek in the south west. A variety of eco systems may be observed along the coast line of Karachi which includes sandy and rocky beaches, mud flats, back waters mangroves, salt plains and seasonal streams. The famous sea beaches include Hawks Bay, Paradise Point, Sands Pit, and Clifton. China Creek and Korangi Creek provide excellent calm water channels. Away from the shoreline are small islands including Shamsh Pir, Baba Bhit, Bunker, Salehabad and Manora2.

1 DCR of Karachi South District, 1998

2 A Case Study of Karachi by Arif Hasan and Masooma Mohib



The topography of the site area is mainly flat as the area is close to the coast line.

On the whole, Karachi Division may be classified into 11 land masses/covers. .The appraised land cover of Karachi Division indicated that the major share by area is comprised of mountains /barren land and seawater (79.9%), Urban Land use (15%) and Vegetation canopy (4.9%) however, the urban land cover is growing day by day. The land cover classes of Karachi are summarized in Exhibit 4.1. The proposed site would come under densely built up sub class of urban land use classification3.

4.2 SOIL

The coast located at the east of Karachi Harbor entrances (at Clifton) is very flat.

The sand is very fine and very different from the sand found at Manora. A significant accretion takes place at the Clifton beaches. This coastline has for the period of last 100 years been reported to advance at an average rate of 30 ft/year.

The sediments consist of very fine silt with varying contents of coarser mica flakes. The coast east of Clifton Beach is sandy and extends up to Ghizri Creek where the Malir River carrying the industrial effluents from the Landhi Industrial Area and Korangi Industrial Area, mixed with untreated urban wastewater, drains into the sea.

The coastal region is found to be of tertiary and post-tertiary origin. Blatter et al (1929) dates it as recent as Eocene. The region has been formed by the upheaval of land from the Tethys Sea, which once extended up to the northern border of Pakistan but, gradually withdrew with the rising of the Himalayas. The underlying rocks are mostly of marine origin, highly folded, faulted and fissured everywhere. They consist mainly of limestone and clay. The soil of the islands is alluvium with plenty of clay derived from land drainage and river discharge. It is rich in salts like sodium chloride, sodium carbonate and nitrates with some calcium, which comes from shell fragments. The muddy and clay-based soil is poor in other mineral substances. It is very badly drained and is not permeable. The pH of the soils ranges from 8.2 to 8.4. The subsoil water table is at a depth of 5 to 10 feet conforms to the sea. The subsoil water is completely brackish.

4.3 CLIMATE

Shamshad (1956) has classified the climate of Pakistan based on the country’s characteristic seasons. Taking into account topography, proximity to the sea, rainfall, temperature, and winds, he has divided Pakistan into

3 A Review of Land Covers of Karachi Pakistan, by: Mudassar Hassan Arslan, S. Jamil H Kazmi and

Mohammed Raza Mehdi



eleven climatic zones. Under his scheme, the climate of the project area is classified as ‘subtropical double season hotland.’ The characteristic features of this climatic zone are low rainfall (less than 250 mm per annum), the absence of a well-defined rainy season, and high temperatures that increase from east to west.

The area’s climate is broadly classed as hot and arid. The meteorological station nearest to the project area is at Karachi airport. The yearly (1992-2001) maximum average temperature in the area remains approximately 32.3°C. Hottest months of the year are May, June and July; coldest, are December, January and February. Yearly mean maximum and minimum temperatures are provided in Exhibit 4.2.

Humidity levels in the project area are high in the mornings as compared to the evenings Maximum humidity occurs in the month of August whereas minimum occurs in the month of April.

4.4 RAINFALL

Average annual rainfall in the district is about 166mm. The rain fall is scanty and is un- predictable. The rainy season stretches between July and August. The rain fall average is slightly higher near the coastal areas and gradually reduces to inland. July and August are among the wettest months of the year with a precipitation of 66.4mm and 44.8mm respectively. The other month with noticeable amount of rainfall is September. No appreciable rainfall occurs in other months of the year with the average amount less than 10mm. The mean monthly precipitation for Karachi South District is shown graphically in Exhibit 4.3.

4.5 RELATIVE HUMIDITY

Humidity levels at the coastal belt are extremely high .Winters are mild and the summers are hot, however the proximity to the sea maintains humidity levels at a near-constant high and cool sea breezes relieve the heat of the summer months. Due to high temperatures during the summer (ranging from 30 to 44 degrees Celsius from April to August) .The exact humidity figures are not available. However, the data recorded at the Karachi city indicated that the monthly average maximum humidity (recorded at 8.00 A.M.) varies from 75% to 80%. The monthly minimum average humidity (recorded at 5.00 P.M.) varies from 30 to 60.The mean monthly relative humidity for Karachi South district is shown graphically in Exhibit 4.4.

4.6 WIND SPEED AND DIRECTION

The project area lies in region where wind blows throughout the year with highest velocities during the summer months, when the direction is south-west to west. During winter the wind blows from north to northeast, shifting southwest to west in the evening hours. The wind usually carries sand and



salt resulting in severe corrosion and erosion. The five years wind velocity record (2004-2008) indicates that the velocity varies and ranges between to thought out the last five years. The wind direction and speed between the two monsoon seasons viz. summer and winter are rather unsettled and large variations are noted both with respect to speed and direction. The wind speed and direction provided in Exhibit

Winds too, are dry and have a desiccating effect during May & June. In July and August winds contain moisture and have a beneficial effect on the plant life. Exhibit 4.5 shows the wind speed and direction of the project area.

Wind Tunnel Test

The design of foundation and facades of building through conduct of “Wind Tunnel Test “which in addition to normal design wind load as per KBCA rules also examined “Vortex” effect of storm winds at 164KPs. This would be the first project of its kind where the proponent has carried out a wind tunnel Test to determine and safe guard the structure from turbulent winds , storms and hurricanes

4.7 WATER RESOURCES

This section details the water resources of the proposed site area and Karachi South district. Both, surface and ground water resources have been summarized in this section of the report. Data was obtained from secondary sources and through field observation (EIA field survey).

4.7.1 Surface Water Resources

There is no significant natural freshwater source in the project area. The Indus River about 120km to the east of Karachi city and the Hub River, a perennial stream that originates in Balochistan and marks the boundary between Karachi Division and Balochistan are the sources of fresh water in Karachi.

The Lyari and Malir Rivers that passes through the city do not have any natural flow, except during the monsoons. The Lyari River falls in Kemari and Malir River falls in Gizri Creek. Malir River is ephemeral and is constituted from two major tributaries, i.e. Mol and Khadeji as well as some minor tributaries. Khadeji is a perennial stream that originates at Khadeji falls and gains flow as it travels across the Malir Basin.

The Malir and Khadeji River basins include dry hill torrents and flow depends upon precipitation during rains.

The total estimated water supply to Karachi is about 2.27 million m3/d (500 mgd). Among the total water supply approximately 2.02 million m3/d (445 mgd), amounting to 89% of the total supply to Karachi, is transported to the city from the Kotri Barrage on the Indus River through a system of canals



and conduits4. The second source of surface water to Karachi is the dam on the Hub River located north of Karachi, which supplies about 0.13 million m3/d (29 mgd) of water to the city. In addition to these surface water sources, an estimated 0.09 million m3/d (20 mgd) is supplied from private and public groundwater wells in and around Karachi5. Except for a few Karachi Water and Sewerage Board’s (KWSB) wells, all of which are connected to the piped supply system, the water from the groundwater wells is distributed through water tankers to various parts of the city.

4.7.2 Groundwater Resources

Groundwater resources in Karachi Division are limited. The aquifers close to the coastal belt are mostly saline and unusable for domestic purposes. The aquifers near the Hub River bed are well developed and are source of water for agriculture and other domestic purposes. Generally the aquifers in Karachi are estimated to lie at depths of 50 m to 100 m, however, this proposed site of Icon Tower is near the sea and therefore the groundwater is estimated to be at a depth of 15-20 ft in this area.

4.7.3 Coastal Water

The proposed project site is at a close distance from the coastal waters of Karachi. It is near the famous beach / picnic point in Karachi called Sea View. A number of creeks are present along the coastal area of Karachi Division. A significant portion of these creeks are covered by the Mangrove plantation which thrives in the arid climate. As the average rainfall in the division is on the lower side therefore, the mangroves are largely dependent upon the freshwater discharges from the Indus River and a small quantity of freshwater from run-off, agriculture drains, seepage and the discharge from domestic and industrial sources from Karachi.

The coastal waters of Karachi receive wastewater from many sources other than the Malir and the Lyari rivers. It has been estimated that nearly 15% of the city effluent discharges directly to the sea. Other sources of pollution include discharges from coastal power plants, oil refineries, the fish harbor and the ships docked in the Karachi port.

The constant inflow of untreated effluent into the Karachi coastal waters has led to marine pollution which, by various accounts has reduced the quality of water and led to loss of habitat for flora and fauna, reduced species diversity, smothering by high suspended solids and oils, accumulation of toxins in marine organisms especially in the larval stages of commercial species, tar balls on beaches, and reduction in amenities, and the eventual loss of marine living resources in the polluted areas. Very little study on chemical accumulation of and its harmful effects has been done in Pakistan but a survey show that plankton in the Arabian Sea has 4 Environmental Impact Assessment of EVTL Expansion Project by Hagler Bailly Pakistan (2007)

5 ibid



Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) concentration of 0.005 to 3.21 ppm which shows an alarming trend of pollution.

The area covered by the creeks off the coast of Karachi was once a spawning ground for a large number of commercial species of marine organisms. Pollution from the land has reduced the fishing potential of these creek, the most noticeable of these are Gharo, Gizri and Korangi Creeks.

Consequently, due to excessive pollution in the creeks there has also been a significant decrease in fish catch.

The industrial and municipal discharges contribute different types of pollutants to the creeks. These include acids, heavy metals, organo-chlorines, organo-phosphorous, alum, arsenic, benzene, calcium, chlorides, magnesium, potassium, sodium, sulfates, toluene and suspended matter. The water that enters the creeks at high tide and leaves at low tide is the only source flushing the pollutants to the open sea.

4.7.4 Water Quality

Pakistan Council for Research in Water Resources (PCRWR) conducted one major water quality study in 1995 in Karachi. The water samples were collected from 28 locations covering the major parts of the metropolitan and possible sources i.e. Taps (26), Hand Pumps (2). Out of 28 locations no source was identified which supplied safe drinking water. The field and lab analytical data was compiled and processed, it was noticed that 86% water samples were polluted with E.Coli and 100% samples were found contaminated with Coliform bacterium, consequently all water sources were switched over to unsafe drinking water. Amongst the tested water samples 2 samples (7%) were high in Hardness, Na and K ions, similarly 1 sample (4%) were found with high ionic concentration of Ca, Mg, SO4, NO3 & F and 3 samples (11%) have high level of Cl & TDS, whereas 12 samples (43%) contained Fe beyond WHO guideline values.

One water sample was collected from open well inside Abdullah Shah Ghazi Mazar, subjected to a water quality analysis. The electrical conductivity (EC) of the water samples was measured in the field using an EC or total dissolved solids (TDS) meter that was calibrated before use in the field.

The water samples collected at various points were handled as per United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) sampling procedures. A chemical analysis of the samples was undertaken for following parameters:

• pH

• Electrical Conductivity

• Total Dissolve Solid)

• Total Suspended Solid

• Total Hardness

• Chloride



• Fluoride

The test result for groundwater sample indicated presence of Chloride, TDS, Fluoride and Total Hardness exceeding the National Standard for Drinking Water Quality.

The result of the water quality chemical analysis of is presented in Exhibit 4.6.

4.8 AMBIENT AIR QUALITY

Karachi being the largest metropolitan city of Pakistan with an estimated population of over 12 million has experienced tremendous growth in the last two decades. It also houses a sizeable industrial base with the entire city surrounded by clusters of small industries. In addition, an unprecedented increase has also been witnessed in the vehicular traffic as the number of registered vehicles in the city had increased to over 1,463,691 by March 2003. Increasing emissions from vehicular emissions, industries, refuse burning and construction activity pose serious risk to the ambient air quality in general in Karachi city. The widespread use of low quality fuel coupled with a dramatic increase in the number of vehicles plying on roads has led to a significant deterioration of ambient air quality.

Pakistan has no ambient standard, that’s why the results are compared with Federal Ambient Air Quality Standards.

The data on the ambient air quality in Pakistan is scarce in general. Only a very few studies have been conducted that bring into light the deteriorating air quality in major cities of Pakistan. GEMS had done ambient air quality monitoring in two different locations, Abdullah Shah Ghazil and Bilawal Chowrangi. The ambient air quality data indicates that the values of air pollutants such as SO2, NOx, CO, CO2, O3 and PM 10 are with in the prescribed Federal Ambient Air Quality Standard .it is understood that concentration of pollutants in the Clifton area is due to traffic flow which causes fugitive dust along the road side .A general air quality data for the major pollutants was assessed and the concentration of different pollutants is given in Exhibit 4.7.

4.9 NOISE LEVELS

The proposed project is located at Abdullah Shah Ghazi Road in the south district of Karachi. The project area primarily consists of recreational areas such as amusement park, garden etc. resulting in a high volume of traffic throughout the day and consequently high background levels of noise. A few residential areas are also located in the vicinity of the project site.

Baseline noise measurements were obtained through continuous monitoring for a 24 hour period at three different location within the project area which was found to be representative of the project area. It was found that the average typical noise level in the project area ranges between 60dB (A) to



65dB (A). The value is well below the World Bank guideline value of 70 dB (A). Noise monitoring details as well as the noise data is provided in Exhibit 4.8.

4.10 NATURAL HAZARDS

4.10.1 Earth Quakes

The Indo-Australian plate upon which Pakistan, India and Nepal lie, is continuously moving northward, colliding with and sub-ducting under the Eurasian plate, thus forming the Himalayan mountains, and triggering earthquakes in the process. The city of Karachi is located on the edge of the high hazard zone 6.

The areas comprising Pakistan have suffered four major earthquakes in the 20th century including the great Quetta earthquake of 1935, the 1945 earthquake off the coast of Makran, the 1976 earthquake in the Northern areas, and the October 2005 Kashmir earthquake. In between these major events, the Northern areas and Kashmir have experienced many small quakes with localized impact. No appreciable earthquakes have been recorded in Karachi during the recent past7.

The recently developed (after the October 2005 earthquake) seismic zone map of Pakistan has divided the country into four seismic zones ranging in term of major, moderate, minor and negligible zones with respect to ground acceleration values. Under this zoning Karachi Division has been identified on the edge of moderate to high hazard zone. This zone has minor to moderate damaging affect.

4.10.2 Tsunamis

The coastal areas of Karachi might experience the affect of Tsunamis as the coast line of Pakistan has had this natural hazard in the recent past. An earthquake of magnitude 8.3 generated a destructive tsunami wave in the Northern Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean on 28th November, 1945, producing 12 m to15 m high sea waves that killed at least 4,000 people in Pasni and adjoining areas. The tsunami hit as far as Mumbai in India. Karachi, about 450 km from the epicenter, experienced 2 m high sea waves which affected harbor facilities. Hence, the occurrence of another tsunami in the future cannot be ruled out.

4.10.3 Tropical Storms and Cyclones

Tropical cyclones also occur periodically in the coastal areas. Seldom of these cyclones have high intensities. A total of 14 cyclones approached the coastal areas of Pakistan from 1971 to 2001. More recently the cyclone of 1999 hit

6 National Disaster Management Framework by National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) (2006)

7 ibid



the Sindh coast near Coastal Gharo with wind speeds in excess of 170 miles/hour, generating tidal waves and caused serious damage in terms of lives and property in Thatta and Badin districts. This particular cyclone wiped out 73 settlements, killed 11,000 cattle and affected nearly 0.6 million people. The losses to infrastructure were estimated at US$20 million8.

However, except for the above mentioned cyclone, severe storms and cyclones seldom cross the coast of Pakistan. The main cyclonic activity generally takes place in the month of June. All the cyclonic storms that emerge in the Arabian Sea either curve sharply into the Gulf of Kutch or cross the Arabian Sea from east to west and end up at the coast of the Arabian Peninsula. When the cyclones cross the coast they are accompanied by storm surges, generally known as storm tides. The cyclones that cross the coast in the month of June generate winds of approximately 15 m/s to 18 m/s9.

Hence the possible occurrence of a future cyclone with severe consequences is quite rare but cannot be ruled out.

Therefore it was considered to base design foundation and facades of the building through conduct of “Wind Tunnel Test” which in addition to normal design wind load as per KBCA rules also examined “Vortex” effects of storm winds at 164 KPS.

8 Presentation on strengthening national capacities for multi hazard early warning and response system in

Pakistan by Dr. Qamar-uz-Zaman Ch.

9 Environmental Impact Assessment of EVTL Expansion Project by Hagler Bailly Pakistan (2007)



Exhibit 4.1: Spread of Land Cover Clusters of Karachi Division

Sr. No

Area (Sq. Km)

Cluster Cumulative Land Cover

Share of Aggregate Land Cover

(Sq. Km) Percentage

1 80.3 Dense Vegetation Vegetation

Cover 166 4.9 2 22.3 Sparse Vegetation

3 63.4 Mangrove

4 144.2 Urban Vegetation

Built up Land 5 15.0 5 112.9 Dense Urban Built up

6 86.2 Medium Urban Built up

7 156.9 Sparse Urban Built up

8 1,500.6 Open Land Unused Land 2,663.9 79.9

Exhibit 4.2: Mean Maximum and Minimum Temperature of Karachi South

Month

Mean Daily Maximum Temperature , 0C

Mean Daily Minimum Temperature ,0C

2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 Jan 23 27 25 24 26 17 12 12 12 12 Feb 28 28 30 25 30 12 17 18 15 15 Mar 33 30 31 30 35 20 19 19 20 20 Apr 33 35 33 35 34 23 24 24 22 24 May 33 30 34 35 35 27 19 27 26 25 Jun 34 35 34 35 35 28 28 28 28 28 Jul 32 34 32 32 32 27 28 26 27 27 Aug 31 32 30 31 31 26 28 25 26 24 Sep 33 34 33 33 32 25 25 26 26 25 Oct 34 35 34 34 33 23 21 23 23 22 Nov 31 33 32 31 32 17 17 19 18 18 Dec 26 26 26 27 27 14 12 13 12 15

Average 30.9 31.6 32 31 32.6 21.6 20.8 21.1 21.25 21.25



Exhibit 4.10: Maximum Precipitation (mm)

13 10 83 3

18

81

41

13

0 3 5

0

1020

3040

5060

7080

90

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Rai

nall

(mm

)

Average Precipitation (mm)

Exhibit 4.4: Relative Humidity

Month Average Sunlight

(hrs)

Discomfort from heat and humidity

Relative humidity

am pm Jan 9 Moderate 63 45

Feb 9 Moderate 72 49

March 9 Medium 79 57

April 10 High 87 62

May 10 Extreme 88 68

June 8 Extreme 86 69

July 4 Extreme 88 73

Aug 5 High 90 74

Sept 7 High 89 71

Oct 9 High 83 57

Nov 9 Medium 68 49

Dec 9 Moderate 64 45 Average 8.16 79.7 59.9



Exhibit 4.5: Average Wind Speed

Month Mean Average Wind Speed (km/h) 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004

Jan 7 4 5 6 8 Feb 6 5 7 10 8 Mar 7 7 11 12 9 Apr 10 8 15 12 13 May 19 7 18 13 16 Jun 16 14 17 16 18 Jul 17 12 18 19 19 Aug 17 17 13 17 21 Sep 15 13 9 16 16 Oct 9 4 11 8 8 Nov 6 3 3 2 4 Dec 9 7 5 3 8

Exhibit 4.6: Water Quality of the Project Area

Note:

NSDWQ: National Standard for Drinking Water Quality

Exhibit 4.7: Ambient Air Quality of the Project Area

Parameters Unit MDL* FAQS** Near Abdullah Shah

Ghazi Bilawal Chowrangi

Maximum Minimum Maximum Minimum Carbon monoxide ppm 1 9 4.2 1.6 3.8 1.2 Carbon dioxide ppm 1 350 415 360 400 355 Nitrogen dioxide ppm 0.04 0.05 BDL*** BDL BDL BDL Sulphur dioxide ppm 0.04 0.03 BDL BDL BDL BDL Ozone ppm 0.05 0.12 BDL BDL BDL BDL PM10 µg/m3 ….. 260 172 135 169 142

Note:

* MDL=Minimum Detection Limit

** FAQS = Federal Ambient Air Quality Standard

*** BDL=Below Detectable Limit

S.No Sample Identification

PH value

TSS TDS Cl F Total Hardness EC

mg/l mg/l mg/lmg/l mg/l ( μs )

NSDWQ 6.5-8.5 …. <1000<250 <1.5 <500 …. 1 Abdulah Shah Ghazi 7.25 <5 3960 2044 2.0 800 8045



Exhibit 4.8: Noise Levels Data of the Project Area

S. No Parameters

Locations

Do Talwar Mazar of Abdullah

Shah Ghazi

Bilawal Chowrangi

1 Noise Level db(A) 65 60 63



Exhibit 4.9: Pictorial profile of the physical environment of the area

Coastal Water in close vicinity of the project area

General conditions of the area

Commercial Vehicles: Another source of pollution in the area

Vehicles: A major source of pollution in the area

General conditions of the nearby slums

Water Tankers: A source of air / soil pollution in the area




BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT

Data for the EIA was gathered from both primary and secondary sources. Baseline field survey was conducted in October 2009. Sampling locations for the identification of floral and faunal assemblages has carefully been selected so that maximum number of species can be observed within the project area. The summary of biodiversity found during the site visit is as under:

Assemblages No. of Species

Vegetation 9

Birds 47

Mammals 7

Reptiles 9

The faunal field data collection included line transects, incidental sightings and plot searches for:

• Birds

• Mammals

• Reptiles

The secondary data was collected which provides a detailed insight into the biological environment of the area. The studies that were consulted include works of Roberts (1967) and Schaller (1977). Primary data for flora and fauna was collected at different sampling locations within the project area.

Two major habitat types have been identified within the study area during the field survey. Habitats include the terrestrial land (including residential area, gardens, amusement parks etc) and coastal. Classifications of these habitats have been based on the floral attributes and land use of the project area.

5.1 FLORA

Since the project site is located in an urban environment, the floral species are less in number and are mostly anthropogenic. However, the areas which had been un-developed such as the proposed site were infested with Mesquite. These anthropogenic species are quite old, and provide food,



shelter and nesting sites for birds. A total of 9 floral species were observed in the proposed site area and its surroundings.

Most of the species are of minor ecological importance and only three of them are dominant and wide spread. The plant species dominating the project area include Prosopis juliflora, Ficus religiosa and Salsola imbricate. The plant species near the coastline mainly includes saueda fruticosa. A complete list of plant species found in the project area, their local names, and life form is presented in Exhibit 5.1.

5.2 FAUNA

A limited number of birds, mammals and reptiles were recorded from the project site during the field visit for the EIA study. The vertebrate fauna recorded during the EIA study includes 47 bird, 7 mammal, and 9 reptile species.

None of the key species may be regarded as key species or species of interest. All the species of birds, mammals and reptiles (except for Indian monitor) are not protected under the SWPO.

5.2.1 Birds

Eates, in Soreley’s Gazetteer of Sindh lists 426 bird species, out of which about 47 species was observed in the project area and its surroundings. Of these, 21 are resident species and the rest are winter visitors and summer breeders. Resident bird species that are commonly found in the area include Ashy crowned finch lark, Black drongo, Common myna, Crested lark, House Sparrow, Little green bee eater, Ring dove and White Cheeked Bulbul. The project area also hosts many species of migratory birds. These include Black headed gull, Black tailed godwit, Brown headed gull, Caspian tern, Common sandpiper, Common tern, Curlew, Grey heron, Gull billed tern, Kentish Plover, Little ringed plover, Little Stint, Marsh Harrier, Marsh sandpiper, Osprey, Oystercatcher, Pied kingfisher, Red wattled lapwing, Redshank, Reef heron, Ringed plover, Ruff, Sandwich tern, Slender billed gull, Steppe eagle, Temminck's stint, Whimbrel and White cheeked tern. The bird species reported in the project area is provided in Exhibit 5.2.

Out of total 47 recorded species of birds, 10 are abundant, 11 are common, 3 less common and 2 are rare. The avian species, which are quite abundant and common in the project area include House crow, House sparrow, Collared dove, Common myna, Bank myna, Cattle egret, Jungle babbler, White-cheeked bulbul and Little brown dove. A large colony of Night herons was also recorded from the project area.

Out of 47 recorded birds, none of the species are protected under the Sindh Wildlife Protection Ordinance (SWPO) and IUCN Red List 2006 as Near Threatened (NT). Seven species including Caspian tern, Common tern, Kentish plover, Little ringed plover, Marsh sandpiper, Ruff and Temminck's stint are listed in Appendix II of CMS.



5.2.2 Mammals

Due to urban environment of the project site and its surroundings, there is hardly any opportunity for mammals to survive. However, rodent species which have adopted such conditions are well established using hollow structures or even buildings as their nesting places. Presence of 7 mammal species was ascertained in the project site and its surroundings. These include 3 rodents and 1 tree dwelling species, (i.e. Five striped palm squirrel (Funambulus pennantii)). None of these species is of ecological or economic importance however Indian grey mongoose in the project area has been included in Appendix III of CITES. Exhibit 5.3 shows the species of mammals recorded in the project area including their status and listing.

5.2.3 Reptiles

Out of these 9 recorded/reported species, 3 are commonly found in the area tail sand lizard, Persian house gecko, Blotched house gecko and Yellow see snake. One species Indian monitor lizard is protected under SWPO and listed in Appendix I of CITES. The list of reptiles recorded in the project area is provided in Exhibit 5.4.

5.2.4 Aquatic Fauna

The fish fauna of the coastal area can be divided into permanently resident and visiting species. The visiting species can further be sub-divided into those that enter the creek for shelter, feeding and spawning during the monsoon season, and may stay for a period of one to two months spanning the juvenile stage, and those that enter the creeks with high tides and may return with the receding tides.

Among the pelagic species Sardinella gibbosa, S. albella, Nematolossa nasus, Anodontostoma chacunda, Chirocentrus nudus, Hilsa kelee, Leiognatha blochii and Scombroides commersoniana (juveniles) are common visitors. The demersal species include Queen Fishes, Scatophagus argus, Mugil cephalus, Arius arius, A. teniuspinis, Therapon jarbua, most of the mullet species and mudskippers. Juveniles of species like Pomadasys kaakan, Lutjanus johni, Rhabdosargus sarba etc. are also commonly observed.

Ahmed 1971 reported three species of oyster, Crassostrea virginica, C. gryphoides, and C. glomerata, in the area. Today however, these species are very seldom seen in the region. Similarly the beds of Windowpane Oyster Placuna placenta that had abundantly occurred in the area are vanishing. The once thriving population of Solen truncatus also seems to have declined. The foremost reason for the reduction in the populations of these molluscs is over fishing and the growing pollution in the region. Other mollusc species known from the area are Bankia sp., Acartia sp., and Sternula sp.

Exhibit 5.5 shows a pictorial profile of the current biological environmental conditions of the area.



Exhibit 5.1: List of Floral Species Found in the Project Area

S. No Plant Species Local Name Life Form Herb Shrub Grass Tree

1 Ficus religiosa Pepul x x 2 Azadirachta indica Nim x x 3 Avicena merina Mangrove x 4 Calotropis procera Ak x 5 Tamarix aphylla Lawo x 6 Prosopis juliflora Devi x 7 Salsola imbricate Lano x 8 Saccharum bengalense Booro x 9 Saveda fruticosa Lani x



Exhibit 5.2: List of Bird Species in the Project Area

No. English Name Scientific Name

Status Occurrence Listing

Total Count

Mig

rato

ry

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den

t

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mm

on

Ab

un

dan

t

Less

C

om

mo

n

Rare

SW

PO

IUC

N

CM

S

1 Ashy crowned finch lark Eremopterix grisea 8

2 Bank myna Acridotheres ginginianus x x 163

3 Black crowned sparrow lark Eremopterix nigriceps x x 42 4 Black drongo Dicrurus macrocercus x x 26

5 Black headed gull Larus ridibundus x x 170 6 Black tailed godwit Limosa limosa x x 65 7 Blue rock pigeon Columbia livia x x 260 8 Brahminy kite Haliastur indus x x 8 9 Brown headed gull Larus brunnicephalus x x 63

10 Caspian tern Sterna caspia x x II 38

11 Common babbler Turdoides caudatus x x 105 12 Common kite Milvus migrans x x 400 13 Common myna Acridotheres tristris x x 110

14 Common sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos x x 44

15 Common tern Sterna hirundo x x II 168

16 Crested lark Galerida cristata x x 74 17 Curlew Numenius arquata x x 40 18 Grey heron Ardea cinerea x x 28 19 Gull billed tern Gelochelidon nilotica x 7





Total Count

Mig

rato

ry

Resi

den

t

Co

mm

on

Ab

un

dan

t

Less

C

om

mo

n

Rare

SW

PO

IUC

N

CM

S

20 House crow Corvus splendens x x 134

21 House sparrow Passer domesticus x x 143

22 House swift Apus affinis x x 25

23 Kentish plover Charadrius alexandrinus x x II 90

24 Little browed dove Streptopelia senegalensis x x 168

25 Little green bee eater Merops orientalis x x 82

26 Little ringed plover Charadrius dubius x x II 36

27 Little stint Calidris minuta x x 101 28 Marsh harrier Circus aeruginosus x x 9 29 Marsh sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis x x II 8 30 Osprey Pandion haliaetus x x 8 31 Oystercatcher Haematopus ostralegus x x 12 32 Pied kingfisher Ceryle rudis x x 6 33 Red wattled lapwing Vanellus indicus x x 33 34 Redshank Tringa totanus x x 25 35 Reef heron Egretta gularis x x 2

36 Ring dove Streptopelia decaocto x x 87

37 Ringed plover Charadrius hiaticula x x 8 38 Ruff Philomachus pugnax x x II 35 39 Sandwich tern Sterna sandvicensis x x 21





Total Count

Mig

rato

ry

Resi

den

t

Co

mm

on

Ab

un

dan

t

Less

C

om

mo

n

Rare

SW

PO

IUC

N

CM

S

40 Slender billed gull Larus genei x x 6 41 Steppe eagle Aquila nipalensis x x 7 42 Temminck's stint Calidris temminckii x x II 117 43 Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus x x 9 44 Whiskered tern Chlidonias hybridus x x 4

45 White cheeked bulbul Pycnonotus cafer x x 79 46 White cheeked tern Sterna saundersi x x 6 47 Wire tailed swallow Hirundo smithii x x 25



Exhibit 5.3: List of Mammals in the Project Area

S.No Common Name Scientific Name

Occurrence Listing

Co

mm

on

Ab

un

dan

t

L.

Co

mm

on

Rare

SW

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Red

lis

t

Ap

pen

dix

/C

ITES

1 Five striped palm squirrel Funambulus pennantii

x

2 House mouse Mus musculus x 3 House rat Rattus rattus x

4 Long eared desert hedgehog Hemiechinus collaris

x

5 Small indian mongoose Herpestes javanicus

x

6 Indian grey mongoose Herpestes edwardsi

x III

7 Indian bush rat Golunda ellioti x

Exhibit 5.4: List of Mammals in the Project Area

S.No Common Name Scientific Name

Occurrence Listing C

om

mo

n

Ab

un

dan

t

L. C

om

mo

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Rare

SW

PO

Red

lis

t

Ap

pen

dix

/C

ITES

1 House gecko Hemidactylus flaviviridis

x

2 Blue tail sand lizard Acanthodactylus cantoris

x

3 Common tree lizard Calotes versicolor versicolor

x

4 Persian house gecko

Hemidactylus persicus

x

5 Indian monitor lizard

Varanus bengalensis

x x I

6 Blotched house gecko

Hemiactylus Triedrus

x

7 Indian sand boa Eryx johni x 8 Saw scaled viper Echis carinatus x 9 Yellow see snake Hydrophis spiralis x



Exhibit 5.5: Pictorial Profile: Biological Environment

Bagh-e-Ibn-e-Qasim: The largest flora

reserve of the area

Household Cattles

General Vegetation in the Area

Birds in the Project Area

General Vegetation in the Area

Camels at Seaside




SOCIO-ECONOMIC & CULTURAL ENVIRONMENT

6.1 SCOPE AND METHODOLOGY

A team comprising cultural anthropologist, gender specialist and environmental assessment specialist carried out the study of socio economic and cultural environment of the project area. The approach and methodology during data gathering was a combination of qualitative and quantitative data gathering techniques. The data collection addresses the primary requirements of an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), incorporating the Pakistan Environmental Assessment Procedures 1997.

A Participatory Rural Assessment was combined with the extensive qualitative data collection of socio-economic and cultural data through short structured questionnaires and focus group interviews with communities including men, women and key male informants in the three key villages in the project area. The relevant and accurate information was obtained with efficiently in terms of time and village coverage by rapid cycles of interaction among team members, communities and village elders. The specific tools used for collection of data includes, direct observation, short questionnaire, focus groups and semi-structured interviews. Exhibit 1.1 shows the socioeconomic features of the project area.

6.2 PROJECT LOCATION AND ADMINISTRATIVE SETUP

The Bahria Town Icon Tower (BTIT) Project area falls in Saddar Town of Karachi, near the shrine of Abdullah Shah Ghazi at Clifton. Saddar Town is a densely populated area central part of old Karachi. The word Saddar generally means the “centre” (of a settlement) and also “head” (of a group of people or an organization). The town is bordered by Jamshed Town and Clifton Cantonment to the east, Kiamari Town and the Arabian Sea to the south and Lyari Town to the west. The proposed site is located at the intersection of UC 10 and UC 11 of Saddar Town.

Saddar Town is one of the 18 towns of Karachi City Government. There are several ethnic groups in Saddar Town including Urdu speakers, Sindhis, Punjabis, Kashmiris, Seraikis, Pashtuns, Balochs, Memons, Bohras, Ismailis.There are 11 Union Councuils (UCs) in Saddar Town (See the complete list of UCs of Saddar Town in appendix). The Bahria Icon Tower Project area comes in UC 11 (Clifton Block 4) of Saddar Town.



Clifton lies in the southern area of Saddar Town. The major places in the vicinity of Bahria Icon Tower Project area are Shrine of Abdullah Shah Ghazi, Ibn-e-Qasim Park, Play Land, Park Tower, Mohatta Palace, Bilawal Chowrangi, Teen Talwar, Schon Circle, Sea View and Boat Basin. This area is hub for shopping, business and entertainment for the residents of Karachi. People from all around the country visit this area for enjoyment and shopping purposes. Exhibit 6.1 shows the surrounding area environment of the project area.

6.3 ENTRY AND EXIT POINT

Clifton is a commercial area, known for availability of high-quality goods and other stuff, here people from all around Karachi (and Pakistan) come to shop.The major entry and exit road into the project area is the main road from Clifton Bridge in the east and Boat Basin / Bilawal Chowrangi in the north-east. There is Sea View / Arabian Sea in the west of the proposed site. The Bahria Tower Project is on the main Abdullah Shah Ghazi Road between Shrine of Abdullah Shah Ghazi and Ibn-e-Qasim Park. The entrance of the Play Land also crosses nearby the proposed site. The famous shopping mall Park Tower is just opposite the project site. Hence this area is very busy in terms of traffic due to four major and busy projects at the same intersection.

6.4 DEMOGRAPHICS

Karachi comprises one of the world's largest populated cities, spread over 3,530 square kilometers. The city credits its growth to the mixed populations of economic and political migrants and refugees from different national, provincial, linguistic and religious origins largely come to settle here permanently. Clifton has been a residential place of the rich and famous people of Karachi since independence of Pakistan. West of Clifton has Clifton Beach, Pakistan's most popular beach. The proposed project site is located at the intersection of UC 10 and UC 11, but majority of nearby population lives in UC 10 of Saddar Town. The population of UC 10 (Clifton) is approximately 40,000 (Source: Karachi City Government Website). The people living in this area live in small and nuclear families. Average household size is 5-6 members per family.

6.5 NETWORKING AND BUSINESS ACTIVITIES

Clifton is a very busy residential and commercial area of Karachi. This is a commercial area with a number of shopping malls. There are some 5 shopping malls in the close vicinity of the proposed project area. However if we calculate all the shopping malls of Clifton, the number will cross the figure 20. The nearest major shopping mall is Park Tower, which is one of the most famous shopping mall of Karachi. Other major shopping malls of Clifton are The Forum and Uzma Center.



Transport in Karachi including Clifton is badly managed, heavily polluting and the cause of stress and respiratory diseases. Around 50% people living in this area have their own transport. Remaining 50% use public transport i.e. mini buses, taxis and rickshaws. Like all other parts of Karachi the problem of massive traffic jams also persists in Clifton area, especially in morning and evening hours. I.I. Chundrigar Road was once the main business area of Karachi, but in recent years many businesses have moved to other areas such as Sharah-e-Faisal and Clifton.

6.6 LEADERSHIP DYNAMICS

There is not any strong system of leadership observed in the project area. People living in this area live independent and solitary lives and do not follow any leader. There is a system of forming committees of people living in one Flat / Residential Project / colonies. They normally meet and discuss the issues of their respective Flat / colony. However people living in Bungalows are totally disconnected from the joint social activities and they only have limited circle of their personal contacts. Nazim of Union Council / Town are responsible for the development of the area, but according to the people of the area they don’t make close coordination with residents of the area. The complaint system is also managed individually. Anyone who is not satisfied with the government system or facing any problem tries to process individually, not collectively.

6.7 LIVELIHOOD

The livelihood of the people in the project area is mixture of elite, middle and lower class population, hence very diverse. The livelihood of elite people mainly depends on business and jobs, however medium and lower class people on shops, jobs and labor. Liberalization and the communications revolution have brought the corporate culture to Karachi, including Clifton. Around 40% people of the project area are affiliated with jobs, 30% with small or medium business, 20% with labor and 10% with large business. The people working in low profiles jobs and labor mostly belong to slum areas and colonies. Residents of this area who belong to elite class either do medium to high profile jobs or do medium to large business. The family system mainly consists of nuclear small families for elite class and joint family system with large families for medium and lower class people.

The surroundings of the proposed project area are mixture of multi-storied buildings, bungalows and slum areas i.e. Shah Rasool Colony, Neelum Colony and Shirin Jinnah Colony.

Some 40% people of the area live in the flats, 30% in small houses and 30% in bungalows. Mostly the middle and upper middle class people live in flats, lower-middle and upper class elite group people live in bungalows.



6.8 DRINKING WATER

The major source of drinking water in the project area is the water supply. People of this area also use underground water, but not for drinking purpose and only for gardening, sanitary or cleaning purposes. According to the people of this area, there is shortage of water. The water through water supply in most of the areas comes daily or on alternative days for around one hour. If there is load shedding at that time, people cannot store the water. In this case people have to purchase water through tankers. The underground water of the area is brackish and hard. Around 50% people of this area use mineral water for dirking purpose. Very few people use boiled water and majority of population in slum areas, small colonies use un-boiled water.

6.9 EDUCATION

The educational facilities in Karachi at present are over and above the National Standards of Educational Facilities. Educational facilities in Karachi Metropolitan area including Clifton area are in excess due to commercialization of education and active role of private sector. Private organizations NGOs, autonomous bodies have all taken part in providing sub standard' educational facilities, so the measure should be taken to improve standard & quality of education.

Clifton is one of the areas with high standard educational opportunities available for the residents. Clifton is mainly dominated by private schools. The literacy rate of the area is approximately 80% and the percentage of school going children is over 90%. But this rate is lower in slum areas and small colonies. There are around 10-15 major private educational institutions in Clifton, out of which 25% are very close to the proposed project area. The list of major educational institutions in Clifton is presented in appendix. There are around 10 government and 50 small private schools in small colonies in the project areas. The list of educational institutes in Clifton is provided below:

• British School of Pakistan

• Clifton Grammar School

• Defense American School

• Happy Home School

• Institute of Montessori Education

• Play way Montessori & Primary School

• Reliance Grammar School

• St. Michael’s School

• St. Mary’s School

• The American School



• The Avicenna School

• The British School of Education

• The International School

• The Lyceum School

• The Royal City School

• Zaheen Acagemy

6.10 HEALTH

The adequate health facilities are also visible in Clifton area, again mainly with private set up. There are some 10-15 main health facilities available in Clifton, out of which 20% very near to the proposed project area. There are around 50 private clinics, mainly in the small colonies of the project area also. The people of this area suffer great pollution problem. The huge amount of vehicles makes the environment of unhealthy. The major health problems of the people of the area are respiratory diseases, stomach problems, malaria and allergies. The list of health facilities in Clifton are provided below:

• Agha Khan University Hospital at Clifton

• Clifton Clinics

• Mahar Medical Center

• Parklane Hospital

• Altamash Institute of Dental Medicine

• Dr. Ziauddin Hospital

• Sindh Lab

• Sindh Medical Center

• Mid-East Medical Center

These well-being elements are discussed below and presented in Exhibit 6.1.

6.11 NON GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS (NGOS)

Being the capital city of Sindh province, Karachi is the head quarter of many NGOs. The offices of Sindh Education Foundation and Behbud Foundation are found very close to the proposed project area. However there are the offices of other famous NGOs in Clifton i.e. Action Aid, NGO Resource Center (NGORC), Aahung, Indus Resource Center (IRC), and Thardeep Rural Development Program (TRDP). The table below presents the percentage of NGOs working in different thematic areas and focus of activity.



6.12 CULTURE

The people of Clifton area mainly adopt an urban culture. Karachi is a metropolitan city and Clifton is one of the high standard areas dominated with a western culture. The trend of eating out is also very common in metropolitan area like Clifton. There are many restaurants which normally seem full during night time, especially on weekends. The introduction of fast-food chain outlets and the popularization of various consumer items, such as McDonalds, Pizza Hut, KFC and others have opened branches all over the city including Clifton area. The Park Towers has a complete floor known as “Food Court”. Huge advertisements, colorful and well lit, dominate the urban landscape of all major areas of Karachi including Clifton.

The recent trend of ICT and cellular revolution has become a significant part of Karachi business hierarchy. Clifton is also one of the main centers for ICT. The communications revolution has made television and video important entertainment tools. Television is the main source of information for the vast majority of Clifton households and more than 80 per cent of them have access to some form of cable television. Almost 80% population of the area seems to be using mobile phones. The internet access is also available in the area. The available options of the internet were seen broadband, dial-up connections and internet cafes.

6.13 GENDER

Data regarding gender aspect of socio economic study was collected by interviewing local females in the project area. A questionnaire was filled by Focus Group Discussions (FDGs) to collect information with regard to demographic and economic indicators and individual interviews were carried out in different places e.g. Houses, College, Schools, and Clinics etc.

6.13.1 Daily Routine of Women

Clifton and Defense life is a blend of busy working style, Women of this area are practical. Mostly related to the professions of Teaching, Medical officers, Lawyer, Actress, Model etc and other all field of life. They have servants to do their chores and they do not need to take jobs and in few houses they look after household task e.g washing clothes, cooking, and also pick and drop their children from school. Mostly women of this area are like hostelling and outing as a routine. They also have the memberships of different clubs and gyms. Walk also comes under their strict routine.

Females of this area regularly go out of their homes mainly for shopping. As males leave early for the work and return late, so females are responsible for purchasing daily use stuff. There are few small shops of vegetable, fruits and other kitchen items in this area otherwise every necessary item can be purchased from Super Markets. Women of this area visit the different shopping malls for shopping which area situated in the area. e.g Gulf shopping mall, Park Towers, Uzma Center, Ashiyana shopping mall etc. They



visit main shopping malls of the city as well. On the other hand some women of the elite class also visit foreign countries for occasional shopping.

Women of other area expect Clifton and Defence are very hard working and practical. They normally look after all the household tasks from making breakfast to the cleanliness of home and from washing the pots. Some females also involve in income generation activities e.g. Factory Worker, Office Assistance, Beautician, Maids and Teachers etc.

Most of women wear simple Shalwar Kamiz and Dupatta. Some females of these areas regularly go out of their homes mainly for shopping. There are few small shops of vegetable, fruits and other kitchen items in these areas otherwise every necessary item can be purchased from Bachat Bazar. Following is the breakup of activities carried out by women during a complete day in the project area.

6.13.2 Women Role in Decision Making

In general the girl and boy of posh area, who are to be married, had right to express there personal views, but in few families, people to have their marriages planned by their parents and other respected family-members. Arranged matches are made after taking into account factors such as the backgrounds of their families e.g caste. Often a marriage is made within the extended family, such as between cousins, friends etc. Marriage continues for five to seven days including Mayoon ,Rasm-e-Hina , Nikah and Valima Function



Exhibit 6.2: Community Well-being Assessment in the Project Area

Name of Area

Well being Indicator

Description of the Area

Communities and Source of

Income

Facilities (Education, Health,

Water)

Problems and Issues of the Area

Clifton

Clifton is one of the high class areas of Karachi. It is the hub of business, shopping and entertainment areas. People of whole city regularly visit Clifton for shopping, business and entertainment purposes. The Clifton area mostly consists of bungalows and large flats. It comes in UC 10 /11 of Saddar Town. The population of the area is approximately more than a million.

Most of the people living is the Clifton areas belong to business and jobs. The population consists of mix communities of Urdu speaking, Sindhi, Punjabi and others. There are some slum areas around Clifton as well, which are reported separately below.

Clifton area has ample opportunities of Education and Health. There are many private schools and health facilities. The list of major education and health facilities is given in the appendix. The water comes through water supply. In case of water shortage people arrange water tankers to get water. Most of people use bottled water for drinking.

Traffic jam, clean drinking water, pollution, load shedding, law and order.

Defence Defence is known as the area of elite class in Karachi. It has been known as the resident of rich and famous people. The area mostly consists of large bungalows. The population of the area is approximately 0.7 million.

Most of the people living is the Clifton areas belong to business and jobs. The population consists of mix communities of Urdu speaking, Sindhi, Punjabi and others.

Defence area has ample opportunities of Education and Health. People also use Clifton for these facilities, as it is very close to Defence. There are many private schools and health facilities in the vicinity. The water comes through water supply. In case of water shortage people arrange water tankers to get water. Most of people use bottled water for drinking.

Clean drinking water, pollution, load shedding, law and order, sewerage.

Shah Rasool Colony

This is the nearest colony to the proposed site. This colony is a slum area consists of

Majority of people living in this area belong to lower/lower-middle class.

Although there are many large private schools in the vicinity of this area, but the local residents cannot

Shortage of water, lack of education and health facilities,



Name of Area




Income


Water)


small hamlets and flats. It comes in UC 10 of Saddar Town. The population of the area is approximately 30,000.

The major sources of income of people living in this area are daily wages labor, shops, small business and jobs. This area consists of mis communities e.g. Sindhi, Punjabi, Pathan, Urdu speakers etc.

afford to attend these schools. There are 2 government and almost 6 small private schools in this area. There are also 4 private clinics in the area. The water comes through water supply, but for very short time. Hence people have to purchase water through water tankers.

lack of cleanliness, load shedding, traffic jam, lack of employment opportunities.

Neelum Colony This colony consists of small houses and flats. It comes in UC 10 of Saddar Town. The population of the area is approximately 30,000.

Majority of people living in this area belong to lower-middle class. The major sources of income of people living in this area are daily wages labor, shops, small business and jobs. This area consists of mix communities e.g. Urdu speaking, Sindhi, Punjabi, Pathan etc.

There is one government and almost 4 small private schools in this area. There are also 3 private clinics / dispensaries in the area. The water comes through water supply, but for very short time. Hence people have to purchase water through water tankers.

Shortage of water, lack of education and health facilities, lack of cleanliness, load shedding, traffic jam, lack of employment opportunities.

Police Quarters This is a small area consists of the quarters of employees of Sindh Police. The residents of this area have small and medium rank jobs in Sindh Police. This area is very near to the proposed project site.

Mix communities living in the area e.g. Sindhi, Urdu speaking, Punjabi etc. This area consists of small flats/quarters.

People of this area avail nearby facilities of education and health. The less income people send their children to government and small private schools in the vicinity and some of people send their children to medium level private schools. Similarly people of

Load shedding, traffic jam, water and sanitation.



Name of Area




Income


Water)


The population of the area is approximately 5000.

this area avail nearby health facilities as per their income. The source of water is water supply.

Shirin Jinnah Colony

This colony is next to Clifton Block 1 and consists of small houses and flats. This area comes in UC 10 of Saddar Town. The population of this area is approximately 40,000/-

The majority of population living in this area belongs to Pathan community. There are also Punjabi, Sindhi and Urdu speaking people living in this area. The majority of population belongs to transport, labor and small business. This colony is hub of tankers and buses.

There is one government and almost 4 small private schools in this area. There are also 3 private clinics and a NGO dispensary in the area. The water comes through water supply, but for very short time. Hence people have to purchase water through water tankers.

Shortage of water, lack of education and health facilities, lack of cleanliness, load shedding, traffic jam, lack of employment opportunities, pollution.

Gizri Colony This colony consists of small houses and flats. There are few bungalows as well. It comes in UC 10 of Saddar Town. The population of the area is approximately 50,000.

Mix communities living in this area e.g. Sindhi, Urdu speaking, Punjabi and Pathan etc. Major sources of income of people living in this area are small business, shops, jobs etc.

There are around 8 small and medium private schools and 2 government schools in the area. There are also around 5 nearby clinics and hospitals. The source of water is Water Supply and Tankers. Some of the people use bottles / can water for drinking purpose.

Shortage of water, load shedding, traffic jam, lack of employment opportunities, pollution.

P&T Colony This colony consists of small houses and flats. It comes in UC 10 of Saddar Town. The population of the area is approximately 30,000.

Mix communities living in this area e.g. Sindhi, Urdu speaking, Punjabi and Pathan etc. Major sources of income of people living in

There are around 4 small and medium private schools and one government school in the area. There are also around 3 nearby clinics. The source of water is Water Supply and Tankers.

Shortage of water, load shedding, traffic jam, lack of employment opportunities, pollution.



Name of Area




Income


Water)


this area are small business, shops, jobs etc.

Punjab Colony This area is around 4 kms away from the proposed site. This colony consists of small houses and flats. This area comes under the administration of Cantonment Area. The population of the area is approximately 50,000.

Mix communities living in this area e.g. Punjabi, Urdu speaking and Sindhi etc. Major sources of income of people living in this area are small business, shops, jobs.

There are around 6 small and medium private schools and two government schools in the area. There are also around 5 nearby clinics and a hospital. The source of water is Water Supply and Tankers.

Shortage of water, load shedding, traffic jam, water and sanitation, sewerage, pollution.

Delhi Colony This area is around 4 kms away from the proposed site. This colony consists of small houses and flats. This area comes under the administration of Cantonment Area. The population of the area is approximately 50,000.

Major community of this colony is Delhi Bradraan. Few other communities also live in this area e.g. Sindhi, Urdu speaking and Punjabi. Major sources of income of people living in this area are business, shops, jobs etc.

There are around 4 small and medium private schools and one government school in the area. There are also around 3 nearby clinics. The source of water is Water Supply and Tankers.

Shortage of water, load shedding, traffic jam, water and sanitation, sewerage, pollution.

New Haji Camp / Intelligence Colony

There are small houses around the new Haji Camp called Intelligence Colony. The population is around 20,000/-. This areas comes at the border of Saddar and Keamari Towns. This area is around 3 kms away from the proposed site.

Mix communities living in this area with majority of Pathan and Hazara communities. The major sources of income of this area are shops, labor, transport and small business.

Very few education and health facilities are available in this area. There is one small private school and 2 private clinics nearby to this area.

Shortage of water, load shedding, traffic jam, lack of employment opportunities, cleanliness.



Name of Area




Income


Water)


Hijrat Colony This is a slum area consist of small houses. The population is around 20,000/-. This areas comes at the border of Saddar and Keamari Towns. This area is around 3 kms away from the proposed site.


Very few education and health facilities are available in this area. There are 2 small private schools, one NGO school and 2 private clinics in this colony.


Sultanabad This is a slum area consist of small houses The population is around 30,000/-. This area comes at the border of Saddar and Keamari Towns. This area is around 3 kms away from the proposed site.


Very few education and health facilities are available in this area. There is only one small private schools and one private clinic in this area.




Exhibit 6.3: Pictorial Profile: Socio-economic & Cultural Environment

High Profile Shopping Area near the Project Site

Commercial area in a slum near the

Project Site

Medical Facility in the nearby slum

High profile store near the Project Site

Medical Facility near the Project Area

A university close to the project area



A school close to the project area

A mosque near the project site

Apartments: A way of living near the project site

School near the Project Site

Shrine of a famous saint Abdullah Shah Ghazi next to the site

Houses: A way of living near the project site



High Rise Commercial Building near the Project Area

Mohatta Palace Museum in the close vicinity of the project area

Restaurant near the Project Area

Sea View Beach: A place for recreation for the residents of Karachi

Cinemas: A place of recreation for the residents of Karachi

Restaurant near the Project Area



CHAPTER 7 PUBLIC CONSULTATION

7.1 OBJECTIVES OF PUBLIC CONSULTATION

The main objective of the public consultation process was to disseminate information on the project and its expected impact among primary and secondary stakeholders. Another important objective was to determine the extent of the impact of different project activities and suggest appropriate mitigation measures. The overall objectives of the process were as follows:

• To inform and acquire feedback from primary and secondary stakeholders on project activities;

• To gain the consent of all the primary and secondary stakeholders for carrying out project activities;

• To identify potential issues and mitigation measures;

• To incorporate stakeholders concerns in the project documents.

7.2 PROCESS

The consultants along with a gender specialist held meetings with primary and secondary stakeholders. target area including local residents, business community, civil servants and representatives of NGOs. The team visited various prominent places in the project area to meet with the target audience. During these meetings a simple, non-technical description of the project was given, along with an overview of the project’s likely human and environmental impact. Following the project description, a discussion was held so that the participants could voice their concerns and opinions. These concerns and suggestions were recorded in field notes. Participants were also asked to suggest alternatives in case of their particular concerns.

Public consultation meetings were held at prominent locations, with major stakeholders engaged in various activities e.g. jobs, business, labor, households. The meetings with local businessmen, shopkeepers, local residents, civil servants, representatives of civil society and senior citizens in the project area were arranged. Project description was explained in simple language. Gender specialist also conducted public consultation meetings at selected places. During meetings Gender related questions were asked in an informal way.

All the stakeholders including women were encouraged to ask questions and share their concerns related to project which were carefully written. The Exhibit 7.1 shows the list of stakeholders consulted.



7.3 PUBLIC CONSULTATION OUTCOME

The public consultation meeting with male members was arranged at shops, outside house / flat or on roads. In a metropolitan city like Karachi and due to current law and order situation none of the residents allowed the team to enter inside the house, neither it was possible to arrange a Focus Group Discussion at some central place with a group of 6-8 people together, as the people were busy and did not have time for more than 15 minutes. The females of the area were also reluctant to allow the female team member at their houses. Therefore individual meetings were arranged at shops, tea hotels, outside the house or on the street / market, or in the office / working premises individually or in small groups of 3-4 persons.

People of the nearby areas e.g. Shah Rasool Colony, Neelum Colony and shopkeepers of Shrine of Abdullah Shah Ghazi in general were aware of the construction work of Bahria Icon Tower Project, however majority of people living at some distance e.g. more than 2 kilometers away from the project site e.g. Punjab Colony, Delhi Colony, Gizri Colony, Shirin Jinnah Colony were not aware about the proposed project activities.

Participants in general raised some common concerns regarding the project and pointed out few common problems which Karachi people are already facing. Some of them also appreciated the project by saying that this project will be the symbol of modern Karachi and will boost the business, economic and employment situation in the area. Major concerns of the people are mentioned below.

The views of the participants of the meeting are summarized below:

7.3.1 Community View

• In general, the participants approved of the project wholeheartedly and were of the opinion that the area will benefit from the commercial activities;

• The participants showed concern related to earthquake and emphasized on the need to design the building to bear any earthquake;

• The participants raised concern related to traffic jam due to the project in the project area;

• The participants were concerned due to frequent load shedding in Karachi and suggested to avoid using electricity provided by KESC which will further aggravate the electric supply situation to the consumers;

• The participants were skeptical about the water supply to the project due to shortage of water in the area and suggested to have their own connection;

• The participants emphasized the need to ensure the jobs for locals;



• Shopkeepers at the Shrine of Abdullah Shah Ghazi raised concern that due to security reason of the building, ordinary people may find difficulty to visit the shrine, as it is very close to the project site;

• The participants emphasized on need to providing proper environmental provisions to avoid pollution;

7.4 OTHER STAKEHOLDERS

In addition to holding consultation meetings with communities, meetings with community and members of local and provincial government and NGOs were also deemed essential. All the stakeholders were given maximum project information verbally and were shown map of the area in detail. Their concerns and suggestions were heard which are reproduced below.

7.4.1 Deputy Director, Sindh Education Foundation

Deputy Director, Sindh Education Foundation (an autonomous educational organization, based at Kehkashan Clifton Blok 5) represented the foundation during the Public Consultation. The meeting was held at Foundation’s Head office. Two other team members were also present at the meeting. Their views are:

• High quality international standard earthquake resistant material should be used for the Bahria Icon Tower;

• Building should have its own car parking and amount should be spent on widening and managing the nearby roads, in order to have smooth traffic at the nearby roads;

• The Tower should have its own Power Generation Plant, which should be environment friendly and do not affect the nearby environment;

• Garbage should be disposed properly and far away from the residential area;

• The Tower should have proper and effective water and sanitation system.

7.4.2 WWF Pakistan

Coordinator NRM, WWF – Pakistan, Karachi Office represented the organization during the consultations. He made the following points with regards to the project of Bahria Icon Tower:

• The change in the outlook of the area may confuse the migratory birds;

• Due to less distance from the sea, it may have reflection impacts on the turtles on the beach;



• The lights may be reduced at the sea front;

• Minimum glass may be used to avoid reflection on turtles;

• They must try to make maximum use of solar / wind energy;

• Earthquake proof structures should be made as we are on the fault line.

7.4.3 IUCN Pakistan

We met with the Coastal Ecosystem Expert at IUCN for his views on the project of Bahria Icon Tower. He raised the following concerns:

• This is a reclaimed area and it must be ensured that the land is strong enough to sustain such a huge building;

• This is an active seismic line and any construction must be done while keeping this thing in mind;

• The project must have a treatment plant of its own to treat sewerage water;

• They may think of developing a mangrove area for the environmental up gradation of the area. Also he mentioned that mangroves act as first defense line against natural disasters;

• The building may be made of sharp colors so that the birds can easily identify it. This will avoid accidents even when they are flying at a high speed;

7.4.4 Behbud Foundation

Manager, Admin (Behbud Foundation, based at Clifton Block 1) was consulted. The consultation was held at Behbud Foundation’s Main Office at Clifton Block 1. The following concerns and issues were raised

• Karachi has become an over populated city, through the construction of such a high rise building at prominent location like Clifton, huge problems of traffic jam and stressful life can be created on the people of the area.

• Air pollution in the area is a major issue, pollution can be increased due to massive traffic.

• All kind of pollution should be avoided.

• The building can create havoc due to the threat of earthquake, earthquake resistant, material should be used on any cost.

7.4.5 Representative of Oqaf Department

A meeting was held with a local representative of the Oqaf Department, based at the Shrine of Abdullah Shah Ghazi. His views are



• There should be separate entrance of the Tower on the opposite site of the Shrine. There is already very rush at the entrance of the Shrine, especially on Friday, Weekends and Annual festival and other important days;

• In case of earthquake the Shrine can be damaged due to the building;

• The company should spent amount for the beautification of the area;

• Local people should be proffered for the employment;

• Betterment tax should be spent on the nearby prominent places including the shrine and market of the shrine.

7.4.6 Local Councilor

A meeting for consultation was held with a local councilor, along with the local residents of the Shah Rasool Colony. He rose following points after welcoming the construction activity in his area.

• Proponent should involve the local Nazim in development project and conflict resolution;

• Water should not be taken from local water supply, as there is already the shortage of water. Company should have its own source of water;

• Local people should be preferred for the employment;

• Complaint register can be placed at reception to facilitate the process to address any grievances.

7.4.7 NGO Representative

A meeting was held with Manager, Community Development of a prominent NGO, who live at Punjab Colony. He rose following points after welcoming the construction activity in his area.

• The construction of the building should be high quality and environment friendly;

• Efforts should be made to develop a proper mechanism for traffic control and smooth operation;

• Power generation should be internal and environment friendly.



Exhibit 7.1: List of stakeholders consulted

S. No. Stakelolders Area

01 Clients of Bahria Icon Tower Project Project Site

02 Representative of Oqaf Department Shrine of Abdullah Shah Ghazi

03 Teachers (Female) Government School near to the proposed site

04 Local Residents Shah Rasool Colony

05 Doctor (Male) Private Clinic, Shah Rasool Colony

06 Local Residents Neelum Colony

07 Local Residents Shirin Jinnah Colony

08 Manager – Admin, Behbud Foundation Clifton Block 1

09 Deputy Director – Sindh Education Foundation Clifton Block 7

10 Local Residents Punjab Colony

11 NGO Representative Punjab Colony

12 Local Residents Delhi Colony

13 Employees of Post Office Delhi Colony

14 Local Residents Gizri Colony

15 Local Residents Hijrat Colony

16 Shopkeepers Shrine of Abdullah Shah Ghazi

17 Local Residents Clifton and Defence



Photographs: Public Consultation

Taking Project Information from the Client

Consulting school teachers in the nearby vicinity

Consultation with tee shopkeepers of the area

Consultation with area residents

Consultation with workers in the area Consultation with workers in the area



NGO’s sharing their comments Consultation with a doctor in the area

Respected resident sharing his comments Consultation with area residents

Consultation with workers in the area Comments from Post office, officer regarding the project



Consultation with children Consultation with area residents

Consultation with area residents Respected resident sharing her comments

Consultation with workers in the area Consultation with shopkeeper in the area

EIA FOR BAHRIA ICON TOWER KARACHI, SINDH


CHAPTER - 8 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATIONS

8.1 INTRODUCTION

This section discusses the potential environmental and social impacts of the proposed activities, predicts the magnitude of the impact, assesses significance, recommends mitigation measures to minimize adverse impacts, and identifies the residual impacts of the project. The discussion starts with a description of the methodology used for the impact assessment. Discussion of the environmental and socioeconomic impact is then organized in the following manner:

• Impacts associated with construction activities

• Impacts associated with post development phase

8.2 IMPACT ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY

Potential impacts from the proposed project activities were identified thorough review of the project activities, study of surrounding environment, review of literature, review of previous similar studies and expert judgment.

Once potential impacts have been identified, the assessment of each potential impact follows these steps:

8.2.1 Definition of the Criteria for Determining Significance

The consequence of the proposed activity is evaluated by comparing it against a recognized Significance Criteria. The criteria are of the following types:

• Institutional recognition laws, standards, government policies, or plans;

• Technical recognition guidelines, scientific or technical knowledge, or judgment of recognized resource persons;

• Public recognition social or cultural values or opinion of a segment of the public, especially the community directly affected by the project;

• Professional interpretation of the evaluator.

a. Prediction of the magnitude of the potential impacts

This step refers to the description, quantitatively (where possible) or qualitatively of the anticipated impacts of the proposed project. This may be achieved through comparison with other similar activities. The predicted level of impact magnitude may be due to uncertainties in the baseline conditions, the proposed activities and external developments.



b. Identification of the mitigation measures

If it is determined that the predicted impact is significant when compared with the criteria for determining significance, suitable mitigation measures are identified. There is a range of mitigation measures that can be applied to reduce impacts. Broadly, these measures can be classified into four categories:

• Avoiding the impact altogether by not taking certain proposed activity or parts of an activity, for example, using CFC-free equipment to avoid impact on ozone layer;

• Minimizing impacts by limiting the degree or magnitude of the activity, for example, minimizing dust emission by reducing vehicle speed;

• Rectifying the impact by repairing, rehabilitating, or restoring the affected environment;

• Compensating for the impact by replacing or providing substitute resources or environments.

The project proponent plays a key role in developing the mitigation plan by identifying possible mitigation measures and assessing the feasibility of proposed measures.

c. Evaluation of the residual impacts

Incorporation of the suggested mitigation measures reduces the adverse impact of the project and brings it within the acceptable limit. This step refers to the identification of the anticipated remaining impacts after mitigation measures have been applied.

d. Identification of the monitoring requirements

The last step in the assessment process is the identification of the minimum monitoring requirements. The scope and frequency of the monitoring depends on the residual impacts. The purpose of monitoring is to confirm that the impact is within the predicted limits and to provide timely information if unacceptable impact is taking place.

8.3 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS ASSOCIATED WITH CONSTRUCTION AND POST DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES

8.3.1 Land Use and Soils

Potential Issues

The potential issues include the change in the land uses and soil erosion due to the construction of the proposed tower.

Existing Conditions

The existing conditions are discussed in Section 4.1.1 to 4.1.2.

Criteria for Determining Significance

There are no standards in Pakistan for maintaining the physical, chemical, or biological properties of soil. An adverse impact on the land will be interpreted if the land as a result of the project activities becomes unsuitable for the purpose for which it was originally intended.



Impact Analysis

The proposed project is located in an already developed commercial area of Karachi. The key impacts on soils, geology and contamination have been identified from a review of the development proposals and typical construction activities for similar types of development. Soil will be excavated and removed from the site during construction. At this stage it is thought that material excavations for building construction will be up to 11,500 mm depth from the original ground surface. Dewatering will be required to keep the excavations dry. Piling works / shallow foundations will be required on the site and these are likely to extend below the groundwater table. The main impacts have been identified at this stage as being:

Soil Erosion: Due to existing unstabilised and uncovered soil conditions, and existing buildings around the site which create a barrier against wind, it is anticipated that wind erosion during construction works will have a minor adverse impact. After construction, since the project site will be covered, paved or stabilized, the incidence of wind and water borne erosion will be reduced from existing levels and the project after construction will have a minor impact with regards to soil erosion.

Ground Disturbance: Dewatering, producing a drop in the water table of several metres, could cause settlement of the ground within the cone of depression. An assessment of settlement will be required if any sensitive buildings /structures are located within the affected zone. This is likely to have a moderate effect.

Geo-Tech and soil investigation and even physical excavation on site has established that the project site is located on ridge whose soil comprises of compacted earth and semi-rock. Therefore dewatering will be minimal, soil erosion nonexistent and decrease in water table negligible.

Mitigation Measures

• The construction activities will be planned to minimize disturbances to soil;

• To the extent possible, equipment and materials would be staged in areas that have already been disturbed;

• Movement of construction equipment will be restricted to work areas only to avoid unnecessary disturbance to soils;

• Routes of water tankers, dumper trucks and other project vehicles will be monitored for any signs of soil disturbance and road damage;

• Proper drainage will be provided to construction camp, construction site, especially near excavations and around proposed facility;

• Vehicle speeds will be regulated and monitored to avoid excessive dust emissions;

• Total land uptake by the tower and associated facilities will be kept to the minimum.

• Periodic trainings will be provided to drivers on mitigation measures related to off-road travel and speed limits;



• The tower will have a storm water collection system so that the storm water effluent has minimal sediment load;

• Concrete Batching Plants have been located outside the site at satellite locations.

Residual Impacts

No significant residual impacts are foreseen if the proposed mitigation measures are implemented.

8.3.2 Air Quality

The major sources of air pollution during the construction phase will be dust during earth works and emissions from construction equipment. The major source of air pollution during the tower post development will be the pollutant emissions from the generator. Impacts from each source and proposed mitigation measures are discussed separately below:

a. Dust

Dust emission from construction site is a concern particularly if the site is near residential areas. Dust or the equivalent technical term ‘particulate matter,’ is generally defined as any airborne finely divided solid or liquid material up to the size of about 100 microns (micrometers or one-millionth of a meter). The main health hazards are the particles smaller than 10 microns (designated as ‘PM10’) as they are respirable. Larger particles also tend to settle rapidly and often do not reach receptors. In cases where they reach the receptors, the dust is considered a nuisance as it may spoil property and affect visibility.

Potential Issues

Particulate matter emitted during construction activities can result in deterioration of ambient air quality in the vicinity of the source, and be a nuisance to the near by communities and workers.

Existing Conditions

The existing ambient air quality has been discussed in Section 4. 8.


A significant effect on the environment will be interpreted if there is an increase in visible dust beyond the boundaries of the proposed project site due to activities undertaken at site, or the dust affects local property or results in complaints from the community.

Impact Analysis

Potential sources of particulate matter emission during construction activities include earthworks (dirt or debris pushing and grading), exposed surfaces, exposed storage piles, truck dumping, hauling, vehicle movement on unpaved roads, and concrete mixing and batching.

The quantity of dust that will be generated on a particular day will depend on the magnitude and nature of activity and the atmospheric conditions prevailing on the day. Due to the uncertainty in values of these parameters, it is not possible to calculate the quantity from a ‘bottom-up’ approach, that is, from adding PM10 emissions from every activity on the construction site separately.



Typical and worst-case PM10 emission from construction sites has been estimated1 as 0.27 megagram per hectare per month of activity (Mg/ha-month) and 1.04 Mg/ha-month, respectively.

A wide variety of options exist to further reduce the emissions from construction sites. The most effective means of reducing the dust emission is wet suppression. Watering exposed surfaces and soil with adequate frequency to keep soil moist at all times can reduce the total dust emission from the project by as much as 75%.2 Specific measures that can be employed for the proposed construction are discussed in the following section.

Mitigation Measures

• Water will be sprinkled daily or when there is an obvious dust problem on all exposed surfaces to suppress emission of dust. Frequency of sprinkling will be kept such that the dust remains under control, particularly when wind is blowing towards the receptors;

• Dust emission from soil piles and aggregate storage stockpiles will be reduced by appropriate measures. These may include:

o Keeping the material moist by sprinkling of water at appropriate frequency;

o Erecting windshield walls on three sides of the piles such that the wall project 0.5 m above the pile, or;

o Covering the pile, for example with tarpaulin or thick plastic sheets, to prevent emissions;

o Locating stock piles out of the wind direction;

• All roads within the proposed tower facility will be paved as early as possible after the commencement of construction work. Until the roads are paved, they will be sprinkled regularly to prevent dust emission. Other temporary tracks within the site boundary will be compacted and sprinkled with water during the construction works;

• Project traffic will maintain a maximum speed limit of 20km/hr on all unpaved roads within the proposed site;

• Construction materials that are susceptible to dust formation will be transported only in securely covered trucks to prevent dust emission during transportation;

• The exposure of construction workers to dust will be minimized by provision of dust masks.

1 Gaffney, G. and Shimp, D. 1997. Improving PM10 Fugitive Dust Emission Inventories. Sacramento, CA.

California Air Resource Board. <www.arb.ca.gov/emisinv/pubs/pm10tmp.pdf>

2 El Dorado County Air Pollution Control District. 2002. Guide to Air Quality Assessment: Determining Significance of Air Quality Impacts Under the California Environmental Quality Act. First Edition. <http://co.el-dorado.ca.us/emd/apcd>



Residual Impacts

The effects of the dust nuisance are temporary with no long lasting impact expected after the completion of the construction.

Monitoring Requirements

In view of the residual impacts, the following monitoring measures will be undertaken:

• Visual monitoring for dust emissions from construction activities.

• Monitoring of periodic water sprinkling to suppress the dust emissions at sources.

b. Vehicle and Equipment Exhaust

Potential Issues

Combustion exhaust from vehicles and construction equipment can affect the ambient air quality of the proposed site surroundings.

Existing Conditions

The existing ambient air quality has been discussed in detail in Section 4.8.


A significant impact will be interpreted if the ambient air quality deteriorates beyond the guidelines values especially at the environmental receptors which mainly are commuters travelling on the adjacent Abdullah Shah Ghazi Road, and the nearby residential areas due to emissions from construction equipment and machinery or the construction generators etc.

Impact Analysis

The exhaust emissions will include particulate matter (PM), hydro carbons, oxides of nitrogen, sulphur, and carbon (NOx, SOx, COx). The combustion processes for construction equipment and machinery and generators will not be significant to affect the ambient air quality of the area. Any exhaust emissions will disperse with the prevailing wind currents and will not have any significant impact on the local air quality. Moreover complying with the mitigation measure will further result in the reduction/prevention of these emissions.

Mitigation Measures

• All vehicles, generators and other equipments used during the construction will be properly tuned and maintained in good working condition in order to minimize emission of pollutants.

• The stack height of the generators during post development phase will be vented through vertical stacks to minimize exposure at ground level.

• Installation of Co-gen plant has been planned on 6th floor of the tower comprising dual fired gas turbines/generators in order to minimize air pollution.



Residual Impacts

The effect on local air quality of the area will not be significant and of temporary nature with no long lasting impact expected after the completion of the construction.


Regular inspection of equipment and vehicles will be undertaken.

c. Generator Emissions

Potential Issues

The operation of the power house will result in air emissions of exhaust gases which may affect the local air quality.

The three most significant releases to atmosphere from generators in terms of impacts on local air quality are oxides of nitrogen (NOx), sulphur dioxide (SO2) and carbon monoxide (CO). Particulate matter less than 10 microns aerodynamic diameter (PM10) is also emitted.

SO2 results from the burning of sulphur in the fuel. NOx is formed by the reaction of atmospheric and fuel bound nitrogen with oxygen under high temperature conditions. SO2 and NOx are referred to as acid gases since they are converted through atmospheric processes to sulfuric and nitric acids. Particulate matter emissions results from unburned carbon and impurities in fuels.

The impact on air quality due to power plant operations is not carried out as the various options for power generation are still under consideration and the stack emission parameters have not been finalized as yet. However it is anticipated that much lower emissions will be emitted as natural gas will be used as fuel for power generation. The detail analysis can be made once the type of gas turbines/engines is finalized.

Existing Conditions

The existing ambient air quality has been discussed in Section 4.8.

The emissions from the generator are provided in Exhibit 3.2.


A significant impact will be interpreted if the concentration of pollutants in the ambient air exceeds the NEQS or recognized international guidelines for ambient air quality such as World Bank and World Health Organization (WHO) ambient air quality guidelines.

National Environmental Quality Standards are also applicable to the stack emissions. Any breach of these standards limits will also be interpreted as significant impact due to breach of applicable regulatory standards.

Impact Analysis

4 generators each with a capacity of 16MW will be run on natural gas to provide the required power to the tower. Stack emission parameters from the use of these generators are provided in Exhibit 3.2. It can be seen from the table that all emission values are within the limits prescribed by NEQS. Exhibit



8.1 compares the emissions from the generators with the NEQS limits. The NEQS are basically designed for industrial emissions and large thermal power plants, and it is not possible for small gas generators to achieve the same kind of output.

The World Bank environmental guidelines recognize this problem, and have set a much higher limit for NOx emissions produced by engine-driven power plants. The guidelines (World Bank, 1999) suggest a NOx emission limit of 2,000 mg/Nm3 which is still much lower than the actual NOx emissions. The emissions can be reduced through the use of various NOx reduction techniques.

Mitigation Measures

The following mitigation measures are suggested:

• The option of using natural gas as fuel in the back generators should be explored;

• The generator will be properly tuned and maintained in good working condition in order to minimize exhaust emissions;

• Emission reduction techniques should be employed on a regular basis.

Residual Impacts

The residual impact will be insignificant once the mitigation measures are carried out.


• Periodic monitoring of stack emissions from the generators will be carried out and recorded to ensure continued compliance with NEQS.

8.3.3 Construction Noise

Depending on the construction equipment used and its distance from the receptors, the commuters travelling on the Abdullah Shah Ghazi Road and the nearby commercial and residential areas may be exposed to intermittent and variable noise levels. During the day such noise results in general annoyance and can interfere with sleep during the night.

In general, human sound perception is such that a change in sound level of 3dB is just noticeable, a change of 5dB is clearly noticeable, and a change of 10dB is perceived as a doubling or halving of sound level.

Potential Issues

The noise in the project area will increase during construction of the proposed multi-storey tower and may result in disturbance to the near by receptors.

Existing Conditions

The proposed project is located at Abdullah Shah Ghazi Road in the main access to sea view (coastline). The project area primarily consists of Mazar of Abdullah Shah Ghazi and some recreational areas resulting in a high volume of traffic throughout the day and consequently high background levels of noise. A few commercial and residential areas are also located in the vicinity of the project site.



Baseline noise measurements were obtained through continuous monitoring for a 24 hour period at the project site which was found to be representative of the project area. It was found from the noise monitoring that the average typical noise level in the project area ranges between 60 to 65 dB(A).


The World Bank for noise (Exhibit 2.4) require that the sound level in industrial and commercial areas should not exceed 70dB(A).3 An alternate criterion is the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines.4 The maximum noise level is important when there are distinct events to the noise.

Impact Analysis

A baseline noise study was conducted by gathering data at three different locations within the project area and the baseline noise level was found to range between 60 to 65 dB(A). This was followed by an analysis of the predicted noise levels from the proposed project due to various construction activities. Lastly, the cumulative effect of the baseline noise scenario coupled with the proposed project was analyzed to obtain the predicted noise levels at sensitive receptor locations.

The noise monitoring data revealed that the noise levels are within the World Bank guidelines within the entire project area.

Mitigation

The following mitigation measures are recommended in order to further reduce the noise due to construction activities:

• Reduce equipment noise at source by proper design, maintenance and repair of construction machinery and equipment;

• Minimize noise from vehicles and power generators by use of proper silencers and mufflers;

• Use noise-abating devices wherever needed and practicable.

Residual Impacts

The noise from the construction activity is expected to be within the allowable, World Bank limits and therefore no residual impacts are expected.

8.3.4 Water Sourcing

Water during the construction activity will be required for the domestic water consumption at the construction camp as well as for the construction activities including sprinkling of water for dust suppression. A significant amount of water will also be required during the post development phase of the proposed tower. Water will also be procured from the KWSB water supply system.

The project envisages construction of commercial area and office tower. Therefore the water requirement during operational phase will be minimal as 3 World Bank, UNIDO and UNEP. 1997. Pollution Prevention and Abatement Handbook, Towards Cleaner

Production. Environment Department, The World Bank; UNIDO; UNEP.

4 World Health Organization. 1999. Guidelines for Community Noise.



compare to domestic and residential complexes. Whereas the inadequacy of water supply will be met through tanker supplies.

Potential Issues

The use of water for construction and operation may affect the water availability for other water users.

Existing Conditions

The existing water resources of the proposed site and its surroundings have been discussed in Section 4.7.


An adverse impact on the water resources will be interpreted if it is established that the water use during construction as well as building operation has directly affected the ability of the community to meet their water needs.

Impact Analysis

It is estimated that peak water requirement during construction phase will be approximately 400 m3/day and for post development phase will be approximately 1,619 m3/day. The water requirement for the construction phase will not affect the water availability for other water users as most of the water will be bought from different areas through water tankers. The ground water will also be used for flushing and other such purposes during building post developments. The local residents mostly rely on water obtained from KWSB and therefore the water usage by the building will not affect their water requirement during construction phase. During post development phase, water for domestic purposes will be procured from KWSB through their water supply system. KWSB will augment its water supply to the area to cater for the water requirements of the tower. Moreover adherence to the below mentioned mitigation measures will further ensure efficient use of water.

Mitigation

Following mitigation measures will be incorporated to minimize any impacts.

• A complete record of water consumption during construction and post development phase will be maintained;

• If a new water well is to be installed, it will be designed to abstract water preferably from deep aquifer not being used by local communities;

• Water conservation programme will be initiated to prevent wastage of water;

• The water supply lines will be checked and repaired for leaks in order to reduce wastage of water;

• Ensure that water efficient sanitary fittings are used throughout the development e.g. low flush toilets, water efficient shower heads, and aerators on faucets.

Residual Impacts

Residual impacts are foreseen to be negligible / low in this case if recommended mitigation measures are adhered with.




• Water consumption during the construction and post development activities will be monitored and recorded.

8.3.5 Soil Contamination

Potential Issues

Spills of chemicals and fuel during handling, transportation and storage may result in contamination of soil at the construction site. A significant impact will be interpreted if oil and grease is present in the run-off and result in soil contamination.

Existing Conditions

There are no visible signs of soil contamination at the project site.


A significant impact on soil will be interpreted if visible amount of chemical or hydrocarbon is observed in soil.

Impact Analysis

During a typical construction project spill of fuel, lubricants, and chemicals can take place. The spill may take place:

• During transfer from one container to another or during refueling;

• During maintenance of equipment and vehicles;

• Due to leakages from equipment and containers; and

• As a result of traffic accidents.

As a result contamination of soil will occur, significance will depend on the nature of material, location of spill and quantity of spill.

Mitigation Measures

The following mitigation measures will be incorporated to prevent the contamination of soil:

• Fuels, lubricants, and chemicals will be stored in covered bunded areas, underlain with impervious lining;

• Maintenance of vehicles and equipment will only be carried out at designated areas. The area will be provided with hard surface or tarpaulin will be spread on the ground to prevent contamination of soil;

• Vehicles will only be washed at designated areas;

• Regular inspections will be carried out to detect leakages in construction vehicles and equipment;

• Appropriate arrangements, including shovels, plastic bags and absorbent materials, will be available near fuel and oil storage areas;

• Contaminated soil will be removed and properly disposed after treatment such as incineration etc.



Residual Impacts

Implementation of the proposed mitigation measures is not likely to leave any long-term residual impact.

8.3.6 Traffic

Potential Issues

There will be an increase in the traffic during project construction and post development phase. This can result in un-necessary traffic jams and chaos for the commuters travelling on the adjacent Abdullah Shah Ghazi Road.

Existing Conditions

Considerable traffic is present on the I.I Chundrigar Road. The traffic is mainly comprised of cars, motorcycles, rickshaws, wagons and buses. As per the traffic study conducted by SUPARCO for Abdullah Shah Ghazi Road in 2004, the number of vehicles is more during the day time with a peak flow occurring during 9:00am to 9:00pm. The traffic flow is more or less uniform during these hours. However there is a significant reduction in traffic at night with a minimum traffic flow occurring during the hours of 3:00am to 7:00am. The hourly traffic count for Abdullah Shah Ghazi Road is provided in Exhibit 8.2.


A significant impact will be interpreted if the additional construction and operational traffic results in traffic congestion and becomes a hassle for the existing road users.

Impact Analysis

There will be an increase in the traffic during the construction phase. The traffic will mainly consist of heavy traffic comprising of dumper trucks, trucks brining in various materials, concretes mixers etc. This traffic will use the Abdullah Shah Ghazi Road for entry into the site as no alternate routes exist to enter the proposed site. The construction traffic should use this road when the traffic is minimum on this road preferably during late night hours. Further more the increase in traffic due to construction activities will be temporary in nature with traffic conditions coming back to normal after completion of the project. A significant number of people will be using the Abdullah Shah Ghazi road during the post development phase of the building in order to get to their offices and residents located in the building. The increased traffic will mainly consist of cars. Appropriate building space has already been allocated to cater for the parking requirements of the vehicles (i.e. 2,756 car parking spaces). The increase in traffic will mainly be during the morning (i.e. between 7:00am to 9:00am) and evening (i.e. between 5:00pm to 7:00pm). Except for these hours no additional traffic burden is foreseen on the adjacent Adbullah Shah Ghazi Road. Moreover induction of traffic management plan will further result in the smooth flow of traffic during the rush hours.

Mitigation Measures

The following mitigation measures will be incorporated to prevent traffic congestion.



• Heavy traffic during construction phase will come to the project site during late night hours.

• Project vehicles shall not be fitted with pressure horns.

• During construction, regulate speed of vehicles.

• Designated parking areas will be provided for different type of project vehicles within and around the project site.

• Manage vehicle movement to avoid traffic jam and long queues.

• Prepare, implement and monitor the traffic management plan.

• Vehicles to use designated parking areas during post developmental phase.

• Parking of vehicles along side the road should be prohibited at all time.

Residual Impacts

Implementation of the proposed mitigation measures is not likely to leave any long-term residual impact.

8.3.7 Wastewater Generation

a. Wastewater Generation during Construction

Potential Issues

Improper disposal of domestic effluent from the construction camps may result in contamination of soil and water and become a health hazard.


A significant impact on the environment will be interpreted if the wastewater discharged is not in compliance with the National Environmental Quality Standards (NEQS) for municipal effluent if discharged offsite. Or improper discharge onsite causes odour nuisance, and health hazard.

Impact Analysis

Maximum wastewater discharge is estimated to be around 200 to 300 m3/day. The source of wastewater will include toilets, washrooms, laundry and kitchen. The collected sewage generally consisting of sanitary wastewater will be routed to a municipal drain/sewerage system. In order to meet the requirement, GCPL has paid a “Betterment Tax” of Rs. 120.00 Million (Approximately) to KBCA @ Rs. 100.00 per sq.ft. Thus, the same is assumed to be utilized for improvement of infrastructure and municipal facilities adjoining the site as required by CDGK.

Mitigation Measures

The following mitigation measures will be taken:

• Wastewater generated will be routed to a nearest drain/sewerage system;

Residual Impacts

Implementation of the proposed mitigation measures is not likely to leave any significant residual impacts.




No monitoring is required in this case

b. Wastewater Generation during Post development

Potential Issues

The building operations will generate wastewater in the form of mostly domestic wastewater. Minor quantities of hazardous wastewater will also be produced during the maintenance activities in the building (such as oily water etc.). The wastewater can be a potential source of pollution to surface and groundwater resources of the area.


A significant impact will be interpreted if discharge to the surface water bodies exceeds the NEQS limits for effluent discharge or World Bank/IFC guidelines for effluent discharge.

Similarly a significant impact will be interpreted if wastewater contaminates the groundwater.

Impact Analysis

Wastewater generated during building operation is estimated to be approximately 12,113 to 18,169 litres per day. The domestic wastewater comprising of grey water will be recycled to be re-used again in the toilets and kitchens. Whereas the black water will be discharged into a near by out fall sewer via a trunk sewer with NEQS limit. The trunk sewer will be laid to cater for the wastewater requirements of the proposed tower in order to reduce any additional adverse affect on the existing sewerage system of the area. In order to meet the requirement Bahria had paid betterment tax @Rs.100.00 per sq. ft. to KBCA

Mitigation Measures

Following mitigation measures will be adopted for effective management of wastewater:

• The grey water will be treated which will be recycled to be re-used again in toilets and kitchens etc;

• Black water will be discharged into a nearby out fall sewer via a trunk sewer;

• Waste segregation measures would be employed to minimize entry of solid waste into the wastewater stream;

• Water conservation strategies will be employed to avoid wastage of water.



Residual Impacts

Implementation of the proposed mitigation measures and regular monitoring is not likely to leave any significant impact of the wastewater from the proposed facility.


Periodic sampling and monitoring of key parameters for wastewater effluent into the receiving body (drain or sewerage system). The sample will be taken at the discharge point to ensure effective treatment.

8.3.8 Solid Waste Generation and Management

a. Solid Waste Generation and Management during Construction Phase

Potential Issues

The construction phase of the project is expected to generate wastes including; packing waste; scrap, excess construction materials and debris, domestic wastes from construction camp, empty containers and drums, used lubricating oils and chemicals etc. Besides being an eyesore, the waste can also pose a health hazard, pollute soil, surface and ground water if disposed off improperly.


A significant impact will be interpreted if the waste management is not carried out properly; which may effect to health of workers, pollution of soil, surface or groundwater:

• Any person is exposed to potentially hazardous waste generated by the project;

• Excessive wastes are generated, recyclable waste are not recycled, waste are scattered, handling of wastes results in contamination, and wastes are improperly disposed off causing pollution.

Impact Analysis

Majority of the construction material to be used and waste generated as a result of construction activity will be inherently less reactive and chemically inert under normal conditions however, its handling and storage may pose adverse impacts of minor nature which could easily be controlled by employing the recommended mitigation measures in this EIA.

Hazardous waste generated during the construction activities, if not managed properly can be a health hazard, can pollute or alter quality of soil, surface and groundwater. Waste from construction and associated activities by all the project contractors will be properly managed by proposed controls discussed in the following section.

Mitigation Measures

A waste management plan will be developed before the start of the construction. Key elements of the waste management system will be the following:



• Separate bins will be placed for different type of wastes - plastic, paper, metal, glass, wood, and cotton;

• Recyclable material will be separated at source. The recyclable waste will be sold to waste contractors for recycling;

• Non-hazardous non-recyclable wastes such as construction camp kitchen wastes will be disposed off in landfill site through municipal administration or approved waste contractor;

• No waste will be dumped at any location outside the proposed site boundary;

• All hazardous waste will be separated from other wastes. Hazardous wastes will be stored in designated areas with restricted access and proper marking. Hazardous wastes will be disposed off through approved waste contractors;

• Surplus construction materials including partially filled chemical and paint containers will be returned to suppliers. Inert construction wastes will be disposed off onsite as fill material or sold as scrap to contractors;

• Records all waste generated during the construction period will be maintained. Quantities of waste disposed, recycled, or reused will be logged on a Waste Tracking Register;

• Training will be provided to personnel for identification, segregation, and management of waste.

Residual Impacts

Proper implementation of the mitigation measures will ensure that the residual impact from waste is minimal. Monitoring and inspection will be undertaken to ensure compliance and minimise any residual impact.


The monitoring measures will include:

• The areas around the construction camps and the site boundary wall will be periodically inspected to verify that no project related waste is scattered in these areas.

• Waste management inspection will be undertaken on a regular basis of on-site waste management and of waste disposal contractors to ensure that the waste management procedures are being followed.

b. Solid Waste Generation and Management during Post development Phase

Potential Issues

The solid waste generated during the post developmental phase of proposed project can pose a health hazard, pollute soil, surface and ground water if not managed properly.


A significant impact will be interpreted if the waste management is not carried out properly; which may affect the health of proposed tower employs and visitors, pollution of soil, surface or groundwater, excessive wastes are



generated, recyclable waste are not recycled, waste are scattered and not segregated, handling of wastes results in contamination, and wastes are improperly disposed off causing pollution.

Impact Analysis

The proposed tower post development will generate appreciable amount of solid waste. The solid waste generated can again be categorised as non-hazardous and hazardous wastes. The former type will mainly consist of

• Office Waste generally comprising of paper wastes with smaller proportions of packaging, biodegradable wastes, bottles and cans. More occasionally wastes include printer and toner cartridges, lighting, electronic equipment and office furniture. Most office waste may therefore be classified as non hazardous but not inert.

• Retail wastes comprise mostly cardboard and plastic packaging with smaller proportions of office and household type wastes. Most retail wastes may therefore be classified as non hazardous but not inert.

• Solid wastes from restaurants will mainly consist of kitchen wastes (i.e. food waste, used bottles etc). They also contain smaller amounts of office type wastes. Again this waste may be classified as non hazardous but not inert.

This waste should be segregated at source. Food waste should be sent to an approved municipal land fill site and waste containing glass, plastic should be sent to an approved waste contractor for recycling/reuse purposes.

The non-hazardous waste would mainly consist of:

• Waste with high content of heavy metals including batteries etc.

• Pressurized containers including containers / cartridges / cylinders for nitrous oxide, ethylene oxide, oxygen, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, compressed air and other gases, used oil cans, waste with CFC content (e.g. fridges) etc.

The first type of hazardous waste will be transported to specialized facilities/waste contractor for metal recovery/recycling. Used pressurized containers should be sent to the vendor for recycling and reuse purposes. Halogenated agents in liquid form will be sent to an approved waste contractor for proper disposal.

All wastes generated from the project will be properly managed by proposed controls discussed in the following section. The environmental impacts will be minimum after the implementation of the proposed mitigations.

Mitigation Measures

• Waste generation will be minimized by adopting waste management strategy of reduce, reuses and recycle.

• A waste management plan will be prepared, implemented and monitored for the safe collection, storage and treatment/disposal of the building waste.



• Records of all waste generated will be maintained. Quantities of waste disposed, recycled, or reused will be logged on a Waste Tracking Register.

• Training will be provided to personnel for identification, segregation, and management of waste.

• All inert and non-hazardous construction wastes will be disposed to the existing tipping sites within or outside of the city limits.

• Hazardous wastes will be disposed through waste management contractors who will identify suitable disposal options for these waste such recycling, metal recovery, incineration or bioremediation etc.

• Various waste containers for waste collection should be placed at appropriate locations in the building.

• Waste storage areas should be located within the facility and sized to the quantities of waste generated, with the following design considerations: Hard, impermeable floor with drainage, and designed for cleaning / disinfection with available water supply, Secured by locks with restricted access Designed for access and regular cleaning by authorized cleaning staff and vehicles Protected from sun, and inaccessible to animals / Rodents Equipped with appropriate lighting and ventilation Segregated from food supplies and preparation areas Equipped with supplies of protective clothing, and spare bags / containers.

Residual Impacts

Proper implementation of the mitigation measures will ensure that the residual impact from waste is minimal. Monitoring and inspection will be undertaken to ensure compliance and minimise any residual impact.


Waste management inspections will be undertaken on a regular basis of on-site waste management and of waste disposal contractors to ensure that the waste management procedures are being followed.

8.3.9 Seismicity

Potential Issues

The area presents a moderate to high hazard potential for earthquake activity. The recently developed (after the October 2005 earthquake) seismic zone map of Pakistan has divided the country into 4 seismic zones ranging in term of major, moderate, minor and negligible zones with respect to ground acceleration values. Under this zoning the proposed project site lies on the border of moderate to high hazard zone with minor to moderate damaging affect

No appreciable earth quakes have been recorded in the proposed site and the adjoining area in the recent past.

Impact Analysis

The recently developed guidelines for earth quake design of buildings in Karachi have assigned an expected Peak Ground Acceleration (PGA) value of



0.20g for bigger buildings such as the proposed project5. This would place the proposed site within Uniform Building Code (UBC) Zone 2B. The expected intensity according to the Modified Mercalli Scale (MM) would be VIII and higher.

Mitigation Measures

No specific mitigation measure other than to construct the building facility in accordance with the UBC Zone 2B.

8.3.10 Sustainability

Land Take

The BTIT development utilizes approximately17,336 sq. yds (3.58 acres). The development will prevent any subsequent use or development of the site. Since all of the land surrounding the project area has already been developed it is likely that in the absence of BTIT the site area would be build upon. The impact of land take has been assessed to have a negligible/ minor significance.

Energy use

Electricity during construction phase will be produced from generators, whereas during post development phase, captive power will be generated by an in-house power plant. Two options are under consideration for the power generation (Section 3). The power produced will be significant in terms of costs both environmental and economic. Since energy is a non-renewable resource which results in CO2, SOx and NOx emissions, it is important to ensure that energy is used prudently and best practices be used in terms of building design. Energy saving techniques as mentioned in Section 3 will also be employed to conserve energy.

Materials Selection

The production, use and disposal of building materials in the development will account for significant quantities of energy and resources. The environmental impacts arising from selection of building materials and components should be taken account of.

The following environmental issues need to be considered during the materials selection process:

• Embodied energy [climate change, Fossil fuel depletion]

• Ozone depletion

• Freight transport

• Human toxicity

• Waste disposal

• Water extraction

• Acid deposition

51997 Uniform Building Code Chapter 16: Structural Design Requirements (Seismic). .



• Ecotoxicity

• Minerals extraction

Ozone depletion

There is considerable potential for a contribution to ozone depletion if HCFC’S or Halons are used in the development which would have a globally adverse impact. To reduce the potential for ozone depletion, it is important to ensure that HVAC systems, refrigeration equipment and fire suppression equipment do not contain HCFC’s or Halons.

Indoor Environmental Quality

Poor indoor environmental quality will have an impact in terms of the health and productivity of the building user. Poorly designed buildings which are unpopular with occupants will lead to increased operating costs, low density occupation and waste of resources. Good quality air is important which is free from pollutants, harmful bacteria and is controlled to the correct temperature and humidity. Other factors that are important are day lighting and the ability of occupants to see out of the buildings from their workspace.

Mitigation Measures

• Best practice of energy efficiency will be incorporated in the building design;

• Building to be constructed with high levels of thermal insulation;

• Ensure that HVAC systems, refrigeration equipment and fire suppression equipment do not contain HCFC’s or Halons.

8.3.11 Disturbance to Wildlife

As the project site is present in an already commercially developed area with minimal presence of wild life, therefore no significant impacts are envisaged on the wildlife during the project construction and post development phase. However the project once completed will act as a perching site for the bird species identified during the field visit.

8.3.12 Socio-economic Impacts

a. Recreation and Commercial Infrastructure

Karachi is short of recreational facilities. Parks and recreational spaces are a minute fraction of the total allocated land-use prescribed for the city. They are under constant threat of encroachment, land-use conversion or illegal occupation by the land grabbers.

A study of Karachi Metropolitan Region reveals that less than 4% of total land was earmarked for utilization as parks and playgrounds. Normal urban planning practices shows that this figure should not be less than 10% of the cumulative urban land use in large cities.6

6http://www.hic-net.org/ Extract from Privatization of Clifton Beach By Noman Ahmed.



b. Potential Impacts

The proposed development will provide additional tourist and recreational facilities in the city of Karachi. A considerable are of the GFA will be occupied by Food courts, retail and swimming pool etc. By providing such additional facilities, the BTIT will potentially promote the development of recreation. By providing these facilities, the BTIT will not only address the cultural and recreational needs of users of the centre, but also supplement existing recreational and cultural facilities in the city of Karachi.

On the basis of the information available, the creation of additional tourist and recreational facilities is likely to constitute a minor beneficial impact.

The proposed development is a tall building but its approval is based on Floor Area Ratio (FAR) of 1:5.5.

c. Employment

The proposed development will create employment during its construction and post development phase. During construction, about 400 people are expected to be employed. The proposed development will create employment opportunities for some 9,700 professionals and other technical staff. This also includes staff directly involved in the operation and management of the facilities that compose the BTIT and visitors.

Most of the workforce will consist of local people. The generation of employment is likely to be a major beneficial impact arising from the proposed development

d. Trade and Business

Karachi is the financial capital of Pakistan. It accounts for the lion's share of Pakistan's GDP and generates about 65% percent of the national revenue providing a Gross Metropolitan Product of PKR. 1.607 trillion or US$265 Billion at PPP and a GMP per capita of US$21,917 rivaling Western European and American cities7. The recent development in the banking sector has become a significant part of Karachi business hierarchy. The branches of new banks as well as other foreign banks can be seen in the city. The head offices of almost all the banks are found in the city. The city is also a hub of other financial institutions including the Karachi Stock Exchange, and Karachi Cotton Exchange. The city has also firmly established itself as the electronic media capital of the country as most Pakistan's Media Television Channels are headquartered here.

There is therefore a general shortage of office space of the businesses to grow. GFA of office space the BTIT will enable the government to fill this gap.

In addition to this the project will pay amount of Rs 120 millions on account of betterment charges to KBCA/CDGK. Therefore any adverse impact on utilities i.e. road infrastructure, sewage and water supplies etc. would adequate to upgrade existing facilities.

d. Cultural Resources

7 http://125.209.91.254/cdgk/Home/AboutKarachi/Economy/tabid/271/Default.aspx



There are no protected or otherwise cultural or archaeological sites within the premises of the project site and hence no impact of the project will occur on cultural or archaeological resources.

e. Pressure on Public Utilities

Based on the initial designs it is expected that BTIT will be self-contained and sufficient in terms of power generation with some external water supplies needed from KWSB. An overview of the current situation power, water supply and wastewater treatment in Karachi is presented below.

f. Seismic Hazard

Karachi is located on the fault line for earthquakes. It must be ensured that the building design in earthquake proof so that the casualties can be avoided / minimized in case of natural disasters.

g. Reflection and Shadow

There are currently other high rise buildings in the area as well. This being the tallest can have an impact of shadow on the nearby areas. The maximum impact can be to the neighbouring park Bagh-e-Ibn-e-Qasim which would also not be very significant as it will be for a short duration of time.

The positive impact would be cooling effect of shadow which will benefit the pedestrians. Karachi is a city with high temperatures and people look for shadows while walking on the streets.

h. Fire Hazard

Recently there have been fire incidents in Karachi which have caused serious losses. Unfortunately there are no proper arrangements in the city to tackle with such incidents in high-rise buildings. It must be made sure that proper arrangements to take care of fire emergencies are made.

i. Relocation of localities

This land was vacant and has been purchased by GCPL, hence no relocation is involved.

Mitigation Measures

• Deliveries should be programmed to arrive and routed to minimise disturbance to residential areas, hospitals and offices;

• Designated parking areas will be provided for different type of project vehicles within and around project site;

• Areas earmarked for recreation and commercial infrastructure will not be used for other purposes after construction;

• Employment preference will be given to Karachi residents;

• Local contractors will be given preference for hiring equipment and machinery during operation;

• Ensure maximum quantity of water to be treated and reused in order to lessen its burden on the existing sewerage system;

• Locals, surrounding businesses and city government are kept on the same page during all stages of the development of the project;



• A complaint register will be maintained on site during construction to record complaints of the nearby residents.

• It must be ensured that the building design is earthquake proof;

• It must be ensured that there is proper arrangement of reaching upto the top level in case of fire and extinguishing it. GCPL may also work with the city government to deal with such emergencies.



Exhibit 8.1: Comparison of Generator Emissions with various Emission Standards a

Parameter Target Emission Standard Estimated

Generator Emissions World Bank NEQS

Nitrogen oxides 2,000mg/Nm3 600mg/Nm3 3,260 mg/Nm3

Carbon Monoxide

No Standard 800mg/Nm3 705mg/Nm3

Particulate matter

100 300mg/Nm3 32.8 mg/Nm3

Notes:

a: The emission standards are taken from various point sources such as furnaces, boilers, combustion and engine driven turbines etc.



Exhibit 8.2: Traffic Count for Abdullah Shah Ghazi Road

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9:00 305 20 214 20 5 84 3 12 663 10:00 245 14 263 14 0 102 10 14 662 11:00 196 20 284 16 3 145 9 10 683 12:00 187 26 245 12 6 102 6 16 600 13:00 200 35 296 14 0 130 5 12 692 14:00 195 41 281 18 2 145 3 15 700 15:00 120 29 365 15 0 120 2 10 661 16:00 145 25 245 12 4 145 1 19 596 17:00 230 63 263 10 0 163 4 10 743 18:00 265 20 251 15 2 125 2 15 695 19:00 195 15 248 17 1 145 5 14 640 20:00 200 26 265 16 0 100 8 10 625 21:00 185 35 296 14 0 145 6 16 697 22:00 102 32 256 19 1 120 4 13 547 23:00 85 20 254 20 0 98 1 10 488 0:00 74 15 241 21 0 84 3 14 452 1:00 65 10 185 15 1 62 6 18 362 2:00 24 5 132 10 0 15 5 16 207 3:00 36 3 96 0 0 5 1 12 153 4:00 19 2 87 2 0 8 0 15 133 5:00 25 12 85 0 0 6 0 16 144 6:00 13 2 102 0 0 10 2 20 149 7:00 29 9 96 8 0 5 0 14 161 8:00 85 10 85 5 0 20 9 19 233



CHAPTER 9 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

9.1 INTRODUCTION

This document provides the environmental management plan (EMP) of the proposed project.

9.1.1 Objectives

The EMP provides a delivery mechanism to address adverse impacts, to enhance project benefits and to introduce standards of good practice to be adopted for all project works. The primary objectives of the EMP are:

• Outline mitigation measures recommended in the EIA and define the responsibility and timing for the implementation of these measures;

• Develop a monitoring mechanism and identify parameters that can confirm the implementation of the mitigation measures;

• Define roles and responsibilities of the project proponent for the implementation of EMP and identify areas where these roles and responsibilities can be shared with other stakeholders; and

• Define the requirements necessary for documenting compliance with the EMP and communicating it to all concerned regulatory agencies.

For each impact, or activity, which could give rise to an impact, the following information is presented:

• Mitigation measure that will be implemented;

• The person(s) responsible for ensuring full implementation of the mitigation measure;

• The parameter that will be monitored to ensure effective implementation of the mitigation measure; and

• The timing for the implementation of the action, to ensure that the objectives of the mitigation are fully met.



9.2 ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE AND ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

9.2.1 Organizational Structure

The proposed project includes the following main organizations.

• Galaxy Construction (Pvt.) Limited as the project proponent and owners of the EMP.

• The construction contractors as well as contractors required during the post project phase (e.g. waste contractors) as the executors of the EMP.

These organizations will have the following roles and responsibilities during the project activities.

9.3 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

9.3.1 General

a. Galaxy Construction (Pvt.) Limited (GCPL)

As project proponents, GCPL will be responsible for ensuring the implementation of the EMP. A person holding a senior position in GCPL will be responsible for the overall environmental performance during the proposed project. The person will be responsible for ensuring implementation of the EMP by GCPL and all project contractors. The GCPL Company Site Representative (CSR) will be responsible for implementation of the EMP and liaison with project contractors and stakeholders at site regarding environmental issues during the construction phase. Further the person holding a senior position in GCPL will also be responsible for monitoring EMP’s compliance and provide technical support in environmental issues.

b. Project Contractors

For the proposed project, GCPL will appoint construction contractors for different field operations. Various contractors will also be hired during the post development phase of the building (e.g. waste contractors). The contractors will be responsible for implementation of, or adherence to, all provisions of the EIA and the EMP and with any environmental and other codes of conduct required by GCPL. Overall responsibility for the contractor’s environmental performance will rest with the person holding the highest management position within the contractor’s organization in Pakistan. Reporting to their management the contractor’s site managers’ will be responsible for the effective implementation of the EIA and the EMP. The contractor’s HSE officer will have functional responsibilities to ensure implementation of or adherence to the requirements of the EMP.



c. Approvals

Obtaining No objection Certificate (NOC) from SEPA will not relieve the proponent of other legal obligations and hence GCPL and project contractors will obtain all other relevant clearances and necessary approvals required by the Government of Sindh and Relevant departments (e.g. KBCA, KWSB, KESC etc) prior to commencing the respective operations.

d. Contractual Provisions

Adherence to the requirements of the EIA and EMP in terms of environmental mitigation will be required from all project contractors and thus EMP will form part of their contracts with GCPL.

9.3.2 Implementation of the Operation

a. Co-ordination with Stakeholders

GCPL will ensure that co-ordination with the regulators and other stakeholders on environmental and social matters is maintained throughout the construction and post development phase of the project.

b. Monitoring

GCPL and the contractors will ensure that monitoring of the project activities is carried out throughout the project. The GCPL company site representative will monitor all project activities during the construction and post development phase. He will keep a record of all non-conformances observed and report these along with actions to GCPL management in Karachi for further action. The site representative will also report any impacts anticipated along with his recommendations for further action.

c. Emergency Procedures

GCPL and the contractors will prepare contingency plans to deal with any emergency situation that may arise during the construction and post development e.g. major oil spills, medical evacuation and communicate these to the regulatory agencies if required by these agencies.

d. Approvals

The project contractors will be responsible for obtaining all relevant approvals from GCPL site representative such as approvals for waste contractors, water source and others as specified in the Mitigation Management Matrix.

e. Trainings

The project contractors will be responsible for the selection and training of their staff capable of completing the project activities properly and efficiently. The contractors will be responsible for providing trainings to



their staff members according to the training programme. The training programme is discussed briefly in Section 9.7.

9.3.3 Communication and Documentation

GCPL and the contractors will ensure that the communication and documentation requirements specified in the EMP are fulfilled during the construction and post development phase.

a. Change Management

The EIA for the proposed operation recognizes that changes in the operation or the EMP may be required during the project activities and therefore provides a Change Management Plan to manage such changes. Overall responsibility for the preparation of change management statements will lie with GCPL site representative.

b. Restoration

GCPL along with the construction contractors will be responsible for the final restoration of work areas.

9.4 MITIGATION MANAGEMENT MATRIX

The mitigation management matrix will be used as a management and monitoring tool for implementation of the mitigation measures required by the EIA. Mitigation management matrix for construction and post development is provided in the Exhibit 9.1. The matrix lists down the following:

• The mitigation measures recommended in the EIA;

• The person/organization directly responsible for adhering to or executing the required mitigation measures;

• The parameters which will be monitored to ensure compliance with the mitigation measures;

• The timing at which the mitigation or monitoring has to be carried out.

It is highlighted that although responsibilities for executing and monitoring mitigation measures have been delegated to different persons/organizations, GCPL will hold the primary and overall responsibility for ensuring full implementation of the EMP.

9.5 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PROGRAMME

The objective of the environmental monitoring during the construction and post development phase will be as follows:



• To check compliance of the contractors with the EMP by monitoring activities of the project on a daily basis. This will be called compliance monitoring;

• To monitor impacts of the post development in which there has been a level of uncertainty in prediction such as impacts of noise, water abstraction etc and to recommend mitigation measures if the impacts are assessed to be in excess of or different from those assessed in the EIA. The aim will be attained through effects monitoring.

To achieve these objectives, the following monitoring programme will be implemented.

9.5.1 Compliance Monitoring

Compliance monitoring will be carried out to ensure compliance with the requirements of the EIA and to document and report all non-compliances. The mitigation management matrix provided in the EMP will be used as a management and monitoring tool. The contractors HSEO will be responsible for monitoring the compliance of their organization with the relevant EMP requirements. GCPL site representative will monitor the contractor’s compliance and will also ensure that during each activity a system and plan is in place for effective compliance monitoring. The site representative will make regular checks on the contractor’s works; keep records of all non-compliances observed during the execution of the project activities; and the details of all remedial actions taken to mitigate the project impacts.

9.5.2 Effects Monitoring

The effects monitoring requirements have been detailed in Exhibit 9.2. Effects monitoring team comprising of an GCPL Site representative and experts of relevant field will be responsible to carry out the required effects monitoring during the construction and post development phase. The following monitoring plan will be undertaken:

• Noise – GCPL will measure noise levels within the BTIT power plant on half yearly basis (and earlier in case of complaints by workers) and the surrounding properties to ensure that the various guideline standards (e.g. World Bank, NEQS etc) are being met;

• Ambient Air Quality – GCPL will monitor ambient air quality in the surroundings of BTIT power plant on yearly basis (and earlier in case of complaints by workers) and to ensure that the World Bank standards are being met;

• Water abstraction and consumption – the water abstraction record will be maintained at site.



9.5.3 Environmental Reporting

a. Final Monitoring Report (Construction Phase)

After completion of construction phase, a final monitoring report will be prepared by GCPL site representative.

The report will include the following.

• Introduction;

• Details of the Project Activities;

• Natural Resource used during the Project;

• List of Non-compliances recorded;

• Effects of the Project on Communities and Physical Resources;

• Photographic Records;

• Approvals provided during the project;

• Change managements statements;

• Trainings;

• Conclusions.

b. Annual Environmental Monitoring Reports (Post development Phase)

The project proponent shall prepare annual environmental monitoring reports describing the conduct of the post development phase for BTIT along with details of the effects monitoring conducted annually during the post development phase of the BTIT. The report shall be submitted to the SEPA.

9.6 CHANGE MANAGEMENT PLAN

The EIA for the proposed project recognizes that changes in the operation or the EMP may be required during the construction and post development and therefore provides a Change Management Plan to manage such changes. The management of changes is discussed under two separate headings, Additions to the EMP and Changes to the Operation and the EMP.

9.6.1 Changes to the EMP

The EIA and the EMP have been developed based on the best possible information available at the time of the EIA study. However, it is possible that during the conduct of the proposed operation additional mitigation measures based on the findings of environmental monitoring during the operation may have to be included in the EMP. In such cases following actions will be taken:



• A meeting will be held between GCPL/or the concerned project contractors. During the meeting the proposed addition to the EMP will be discussed and agreed upon by all parties.

• Based on the discussion during the meeting, a change report will be produced collectively, which will include the additional EMP clause and the reasons for the addition.

• The report will be signed by all parties and will be filled at the site office. A copy of the report will be sent to GCPL and contractor head offices.

• All relevant project personnel will be informed of the addition.

9.6.2 Changes to the Operation

The change management system recognises three orders of changes:

a. First Order

A first order change is one that leads to a significant departure from the project described or the impacts assessed in the EIA and consequently require a reassessment of the environmental impacts associated with the change. Example of first order change includes change in location of proposed BTIT.

Action required in this case will be that the environmental impacts of the proposed change will be reassessed by GCPL and sent to the SEPA for approval.

b. Second Order

A second order change is one that does not result in the change in project description or impacts that are significantly different from those detailed in the EIA. Example of second order changes includes extension in the site area.

Action required for such changes will that GCPL will reassess the impact of the activity on the environment and specify additional mitigation measures if required and report the changes to SEPA.

c. Third Order

A third order change is one that does not result in impacts above those already assessed in the EIA, rather these may be made on site to minimise the impact of an activity such as:

• Increase in project workforce;

• Change in layout plan.

The only action required for such changes will be to record the change in the Change Record Register.



9.7 TRAINING PROGRAMME

Environmental training will form part of the environmental management system. The training will be directed towards all personnel for general environmental awareness.

9.7.1 Objectives

The key objective of training programme is to ensure that the requirements of the EMP are clearly understood and followed throughout the project. The trainings to the staff will help in communicating environmental related restrictions specified in the EIA and EMP.

9.7.2 Roles and Responsibilities

The contractors will be primarily responsible for providing environmental training to all project personnel on potential environmental issues of the project. The contractors will be responsible to arrange trainings and ensure the presence of targeted staff.

9.7.3 Training Programme

The environmental awareness, EIA and EMP training will be carried out during the project activities. A suggested training programme (Exhibit 9.3) is attached at the end of this section.

a. Training log

A training log will be maintained by the contractors. The training log will include:

• Topic

• Date, time and location

• Trainer

• Participants

b. Training Needs Assessment

In addition to the training specified in the training log special/ additional trainings will be provided during the project activity. The criteria to assess the need of training will be based on the following:

• When a specified percentage of staff is newly inducted in the project

• When any non-compliance is repeatedly reported refresher training will be provided regarding that issue.

• When any incident/accident of minor or major nature occurs.

• Arrival of new contractor/sub contractor.



• Start of any new process/activity.

c. Training Material

The contractors will develop and prepare training material regarding environmental awareness, sensitivity of the area, EIA, EMP and restrictions to be followed during the project. Separate training material will be prepared for each targeted staff.

EIA FOR BHARIA TOWN ICON TOWER KARACHI, SINDH


Exhibit 9.1: Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan – Construction and Post Development Phase

No Impact and Mitigation Measures Responsibility Monitoring Timing

1 Land Use and Soils

1.1 The construction activities will be planned to minimize disturbances to soil GCPL, CC Monitor

compliance During construction

phase

1.2 To the extent possible, equipment and materials would be staged in areas that have already been disturbed GCPL, CC Monitor


phase

1.3 Movement of construction equipment will be restricted to work areas only to avoid unnecessary disturbance to soils CC Monitor


phase

1.4 Routes of water tankers, dumper trucks and other project

vehicles will be monitored for any signs of soil disturbance and road damage

CC Monitor compliance

During construction phase

1.5 Proper drainage will be provided to construction camp,

construction site, especially near excavations and around proposed facility



1.6 Vehicle speeds will be regulated and monitored to avoid excessive dust emissions CC Monitor


phase

1.7 Total land uptake by the towers and associated facilities will be kept to the minimum GCPL, CC Monitor


phase

1.8 Periodic trainings will be provided to drivers on mitigation measures related to off-road travel and speed limits GCPL, CC Check trainng

records During construction

phase

1.9 The tower will have a storm water collection system so that the storm water effluent has minimal sediment load GCPL, CC Monitor

compliance During design and construction phase

2 Air Quality

2.1 Dust Emissions

2.1.1 Water will be sprinkled daily or when there is an obvious dust CC Monitor During construction



No Impact and Mitigation Measures Responsibility Monitoring Timing problem on all exposed surfaces to suppress emission of dust. Frequency of sprinkling will be kept such that the dust remains under control, particularly when wind is blowing towards the

receptors.

compliance phase

2.1.2

Dust emission from soil piles and aggregate storage stockpiles will be reduced by appropriate measures. These may include:

Keeping the material moist by sprinkling of water at appropriate frequency

Erecting windshield walls on three sides of the piles such that the wall project 0.5m above the pile, or

Covering the pile, for example with tarpaulin or thick plastic sheets, to prevent emissions.

Locating stock piles out of the wind direction



2.1.3

All roads within the proposed tower facility will be paved as early as possible after the commencement of construction work. Until the roads are paved, they will be sprinkled regularly to prevent dust emission. Other temporary tracks within the site boundary

will be compacted and sprinkled with water during the construction works.

GCPL, CC Monitor compliance


2.1.4 Project traffic will maintain a maximum speed limit of 20km/hr on all unpaved roads within the proposed site area. GCPL, CC Check speed of

vehicles During construction

phase

2.1.5 Construction materials that are susceptible to dust formation will be transported only in securely covered trucks to prevent dust

emission during transportation. CC Monitor


phase

2.1.6 The exposure of construction workers to dust will be minimized by provision of dust masks. CC Check for dust

masks During construction

phase

2.2 Vehicle Equipment and Exhaust.

2.2.1 All vehicles, generators and other equipments used during the GCPL, CC Maintenance During construction



No Impact and Mitigation Measures Responsibility Monitoring Timing construction will be properly tuned and maintained in good

working condition in order to minimize emission of pollutants. records of

vehicles and eqpuipments

phase

2.2.2 The stack height of the generators during post development

phase will be vented through vertical stacks to minimize exposure at ground level



2.3 Generator Emissions

2.3.1 The option of using natural gas as fuel in the back generators should be explored.

GCPL, Generator Vendor

Monitor compliance During design phase

2.3.2 The generator will be properly tuned and maintained in good working condition in order to minimize exhaust emissions GCPL

Check maintenance

records

During Post development Phase

2.3.3 The diesel generators should be used for a very short duration

with the power switched back to the main power supply as quickly as possible.

GCPL Monitor compliance

During Post development Phase

2.3.4 NOx emission reduction techniques should be employed on a regular basis GCPL Monitor NOx

emissions During Post

development Phase

3 Construction Noise

3.1 Reduce equipment noise at source by proper design, maintenance and repair of construction machinery and equipment GCPL, CC

Check maintenance

records


3.2 Minimize noise from vehicles and power generators by use of proper silencers and mufflers. GCPL, CC Monitor


phase

3.3 Use noise-abating devices wherever needed and practicable. GCPL, CC Monitor compliance


4 Water Sourcing




4.1 A complete record of water consumption during construction and post development phase will be maintained GCPL, CC

Check water consumption

records

During construction and post development

phase

4.2 If a new water well is to be installed, it will be designed to

abstract water preferably from deep aquifer not being used by local communities



4.3 Water conservation programme will be initiated to prevent wastage of water. GCPL, CC Monitor

compliance


phase

4.4 The water supply lines will be checked and repaired for leaks in order to reduce wastage of water.

GCPL, Maintenance Contractor

Check maintenance

records

During post development phase

4.5 Recycle grey water for use for toilet flushing; GCPL Monitor compliance


4.6 Ensure that water efficient sanitary fittings are used throughout the development e.g. low flush toilets, water efficient shower

heads, and aerators on faucets GCPL, CC Monitor

compliance


phase

5 Soil Contamination

5.1 Fuels, lubricants, and chemicals will be stored in covered bunded areas, underlain with impervious lining GCPL, CC Monitor


phase

5.2

Maintenance of vehicles and equipment will only be carried out at designated areas. The area will be provided with hard surface or tarpaulin will be spread on the ground to prevent contamination

of soil



5.3 Vehicles will only be washed at designated areas. CC Vehicle

inspection records





5.4 Regular inspections will be carried out to detect leakages in construction vehicles and equipment GCPL, CC

Check inspection/maintenance records


5.5 Appropriate arrangements, including shovels, plastic bags and absorbent materials, will be available near fuel and oil storage

areas CC Monitor


phase

5.6 Contaminated soil will be removed and properly disposed after treatment such as incineration etc. GCPL, CC Monitor


phase

6 Traffic

6.1 Heavy traffic during construction phase will come to the project site during late night hours. GCPL, CC Traffic record During construction

phase

6.2 Project vehicles shall not be fitted with pressure horns CC Monitor compliance


6.3 During construction, regulate speed of vehicles GCPL, CC Monitor compliance


6.4 Designated parking areas will be provided for different type of project vehicles within and around the project site GCPL, CC Monitor


phase

6.5 Manage vehicle movement to avoid traffic jam and long queues GCPL, CC Monitor compliance


phase

6.6 Prepare, implement and monitor the traffic management plan GCPL Monitor compliance


phase

6.7 Vehicles to use designated parking areas during post developmental phase.. GCPL Monitor

compliance During post

development phase

6.8 Parking of vehicles along side the road should be prohibited at all GCPL Monitor During construction and post development



No Impact and Mitigation Measures Responsibility Monitoring Timing time. compliance phase

7 Wastewater Generation

7.1 Wastewater Generation During Construction

7.1.1 Wastewater generated will be routed to a nearest drain/sewerage system. GCPL, CC Monitor


phase

7.2 Wastewater Generation During Post development

7.2.1 The grey water will be treated which will be recycled to be re-used again in toilets and kitchens etc. GCPL Monitor


development phase

7.2.2 Black water will be discharged into a nearby out fall sewer via a trunk sewer GCPL, CC Monitor

compliance

During design, consturction and post development phase

7.2.3 Waste segregation measures would be employed to minimize entry of solid waste into the wastewater stream GCPL Monitor


development phase

7.2.4 Water conservation strategies will be employed to avoid wastage of water GCPL Monitor


development phase

8 Solid Waste Generation and Management

8.1 Solid Waste Generation and Management during Construction

8.1.1 Separate bins will be placed for different type of wastes - plastic, paper, metal, glass, wood, and cotton. GCPL, CC Monitor


phase

8.1.2 Recyclable material will be separated at source. The recyclable waste will be sold to waste contractors for recycling. GCPL, CC Monitor


phase

8.1.3 Non-hazardous non-recyclable wastes such as construction camp

kitchen wastes will be disposed off in landfill site through municipal administration or approved waste contractor.



8.1.4 No waste will be dumped at any location outside the proposed site boundary. GCPL, CC Monitor


phase




8.1.5

All hazardous waste will be separated from other wastes. Hazardous wastes will be stored in designated areas with

restricted access and proper marking. Hazardous wastes will be disposed off through approved waste contractors

GCPL, CC Ceck hazardous waste disposal

records


8.1.6

Surplus construction materials including partially filled chemical and paint containers will be returned to suppliers. Inert

construction wastes will be disposed off onsite as fill material or sold as scrap to contractors.

GCPL, CC Check waste records


8.1.7 Records of all waste generated during the construction period will be maintained. Quantities of waste disposed, recycled, or reused

will be logged on a Waste Tracking Register GCPL, CC Check waste

record register During construction

phase

8.1.8 Training will be provided to personnel for identification, segregation, and management of waste GCPL, CC Check training

records During construction

phase

8.2 Solid Waste Generation and Management during Post development

8.2.1 Waste generation will be minimized by adopting waste management strategy of reduce, reuses and recycle. GCPL Monitor

Compliance During post

development phase

8.2.2 A waste management plan will be prepared, implemented and

monitored for the safe collection, storage and treatment/disposal of the building waste

GCPL Monitor Compliance


8.2.3 Records of all waste generated will be maintained. Quantities of waste disposed, recycled, or reused will be logged on a Waste

Tracking Register GCPL Check waste

tracking register During post

development phase

8.2.4 Training will be provided to personnel for identification, segregation, and management of waste GCPL Check training

records During post

development phase

8.2.5 All inert and non-hazardous construction wastes will be disposed to the existing tipping sites within or outside of the city limits

GCPL, waste contractor

Monitor compliance


8.2.6 Hazardous wastes will be disposed through waste management GCPL, waste Monitor During post



No Impact and Mitigation Measures Responsibility Monitoring Timing contractors who will identify suitable disposal options for these

waste such as recycling, metal recovery, incineration or bioremediation etc

contractor compliance development phase

8.2.7 Various waste containers for waste collection should be placed at appropriate locations in the building GCPL Monitor


development phase

8.2.8

Waste storage areas should be located within the facility and sized to the quantities of waste generated, with the following design considerations: Hard, impermeable floor with drainage, and designed for cleaning / disinfection with available water supply, Secured by locks with restricted access Designed for access and regular cleaning by authorized cleaning staff and vehicles Protected from sun, and inaccessible to animals / Rodents Equipped with appropriate lighting and ventilation

Segregated from food supplies and preparation areas Equipped with supplies of protective clothing, and spare bags / containers



9 Seismicity

9.1 No specific mitigation measure other than to construct the facility in accordance with the UBC Zone 2B

GCPL, Structure design

consultant, CC

Monitor compliance

During project design phase

10 Sustainablility

10.1 Best practice of energy efficiency will be incorporated in the building design

GCPL, CC

Monitor compliance


10.2 Buildings to be constructed with high levels of thermal insulation GCPL,

CC Monitor

compliance During project design

phase

10.3 Ensure that HVAC systems, refrigeration equipment and fire suppression equipment do not contain HCFC’s or Halons

GCPL, CC

Monitor compliance





11 Socio-economic Impacts

11.1 Deliveries should be programmed to arrive and routed to minimise disturbance to residential areas, hospitals and offices.

GCPL, CC

Monitor Compliance

During Construction phase

11.2 Designated parking areas will be provided for different type of project vehicles within and around project site

GCPL, CC

Monitor Compliance


phase

11.3 Areas earmarked for recreation and commercial infrastructure will not be used for other purposes after construction

GCPL

Monitor Compliance


phase

11.4 Employment preference will be given to Karachi residents GCPL, CC Monitor Compliance


phase

11.5 Local contractors will be given preference for hiring equipment and machinery during operation GCPL, CC Monitor

Compliance


phase

11.6 Ensure maximum quantity of water to be treated and reused in order to lessen its burden on the existing sewerage system. GCPL Monitor

Compliance

During design, construction and post development phase

11.7 Locals, surrounding businesses and city government are kept on

the same page during all stages of the development of the project.

GCPL Monitor Compliance


11.8 A complaint register will be maintained on site during construction to record complaints of the nearby residents. GCPL

Provision of complaint register


Abbreviation: - CC: Civil Contractor, GCPL: Galaxy Construction (Pvt.) Limited



Exhibit 9.2: Effects Monitoring Requirements

Parameter Potential Issue Monitoring Parameter Method Frequency Responsibility

Physical Parameters

Water Abstraction and Dewatering

Water Lowering of groundwater table or reduced discharge in

monitoring wells

land subsidence or disturbance due to

dewatering

Water well discharge

Physically observe

areas within and in close vicinity of

project site

Volumetric discharge

measurement

Fortnightly

During dewatering

GCPL

Noise Disturbance to nearby communities, offices etc

Noise Levels on dB(A)

scale Using Noise meter

Monthly basis during construction and half

yearly during post development

GCPL

Air

Air quality due to increase in traffic due to

project activity

Air Emissions from captive power and

standby diesel generators

Suspended Particulates, SOx, CO and

NOx

NEQS

Using standard Methods and Techniques

approved by SEPA

Weekly basis during construction and yearly

during post development

As per National standards

GCPL



Note: * The table of effects monitoring requirements can be further developed during project execution phase if additional monitoring requirements are identified by the environmental monitoring bodies



Exhibit 9.3: Suggested Training Programme

Project Activity Staff Contents

Construction Drivers

Road safety Road restrictions

Vehicle restrictions Waste disposal

Construction All staff Communication of

environmental problems Waste disposal

Operation Administrative and support staff Waste Management

Construction and Post development

Operation and maintenance

Regular maitenance of Equipment, Machinery &

HVAC system Waste disposal



Chapter – 10 CONCLUSIONS

Karachi lacks in superior quality commercial facility with large office space. With the emergence of new businesses and thrust of foreign investment in the country, it was essential to build a state of the art building facility to fulfil their office space requirements and recreational areas. Bahria Town ICON Tower as project of M/s Galaxy Construction with will be able to cater the office needs of the banking facilities, stock brokerages and various multi nationals besides providing leisure facilities to the community. The facility during the construction and post developmental phase will also provide a considerable number of employment opportunities to various professionals, skilled and unskilled labours.

Baseline environmental and socioeconomic information was collected from a variety of sources, including reports of previous studies, published literature and field surveys. The information collected was used to compose profiles of the natural, socioeconomic and cultural environments likely to be affected by the project.

However, the scale and nature of the project requires that potential environmental effects due the proposed project are evaluated, mitigation measures required to minimise or obviate these impacts be assessed, implemented and monitored. Any residual impacts may be assessed for their significance. All these requirements have been addressed in this EIA, which has in considerable length covered the following:

• The proposed project activities;

• Environmental conditions of the proposed site and its surroundings;

• Legislative requirements related to the project;

• Potential environmental impacts of the proposed project activities on the physical, natural and socio-economic receptors;

• Mitigation and monitoring measures that will help in avoiding or minimizing these impacts;

• An EMP has been provided that will help in effective implementation of the mitigation measures.

It is therefore concluded that adverse impacts arising from the project can be mitigated and managed through the mitigation

measures and EMP and that the residual impacts will be of minor to moderate significance. Overall the project will have positive

economic impacts.

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