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ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT (ESIA) FOR AWALI-BEIRUT WATER CONVEYER

PROJECT

(STUDY UPDATE)

FINAL REPORT

Prepared by:

EARTH LINK AND ADVANCED RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT S.A.R.L.(ELARD)

Submitted to:

COUNCIL FOR DEVELOPMENT AND RECONSTRUCTION(CDR)

Date of Submission:

E2515V2

August 2, 2010

FINAL REPORTCOUNCIL FOR DEVELOPMENT AND RECONSTRUCTION (CDR)

ESIA FOR AWALI-BEIRUT WATER CONVEYER PROJECTPROJECT INFORMATION

ELARD LEBANON

COUNCIL FOR DEVELOPMENT AND RECONSTRUCTION

DOCUMENT TYPE: Assessment ReportPROJECT REF::

ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT NO. OF PAGES: 240ESIA for Awali-Beirut Water Conveyer Project VERSION FINAL REPORT

APPROVED BY Ramez Kayal General Manager

REVIEWED BY Ricardo Khoury Senior Environmental Specialist

PREPARED BY

Rachad Ghanem Senior Hydrogeologist/ Project Manager

Hanadi Musharafiyeh Social Economist

Wafaa Halabi Socio-EconomistBasma Shames Geologist / Field CoordinatorCarlo Bekhazi Environmental ConsultantGhada Chehab Environmental ExpertRana Ghattas Quality Management Responsible

DISCLAIMER

This report has been prepared by ELARD , with all reasonable skill, care and diligence within the terms of the contract with the client, incorporating our General Terms and Conditions of Business and taking account of the resources devoted to it by agreement with the client. The information contained in this report is, to the best of our knowledge, correct at the time of printing. The interpretations and recommendations are based on our experience, using reasonable professional skill and judgment, and based upon the information that was available to us. This report is confidential to the client and we accept no responsibility whatsoever to third parties to whom this report, or any part thereof, is made known. Any such party relies on the report at their own risk.

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ELARDHojeily Center 6th Fl.Pere Yacoub StreetSin El Fil, 2708 5803Tel: +961 (1) 512121/2Fax: +961 1 512123www.elard-group.com


ESIA FOR AWALI-BEIRUT WATER CONVEYER PROJECTTABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Table of Contents............................................................................................................................... iii

List of Tables....................................................................................................................................viii

List of Figures.................................................................................................................................... ix

Executive Summary............................................................................................................................. I

Introduction...................................................................................................................................... I

Legal and Institutional Framework................................................................................................... I

Project Description........................................................................................................................... I

Environmental and Social Baseline Study.......................................................................................III

Public Consultation......................................................................................................................... IX

Environemntal and Social Impact Assessment................................................................................X

Environmental and Social Management Plan...............................................................................XIII

1. Introduction............................................................................................................................1-1

1.1 Background Information...................................................................................................1-1

1.2 General Project Description and Location........................................................................1-1

1.3 ESIA Objectives................................................................................................................1-2

1.4 ESIA Report Structure......................................................................................................1-3

2. Legal and Institutional Framework.........................................................................................2-1

2.1 Introduction......................................................................................................................2-1

2.2 Institutional Framework and Sector Organization in Lebanon..........................................2-1

2.2.1 Institutional Framework for the Protection of the Environment...................................2-1

2.2.2 Main Public Stakeholders concerned with the project..................................................2-3

2.2.3 Ministry of Energy and Water (MoEW)..........................................................................2-3

2.2.4 Ministry of Public Works and Transportation (MoPWT).................................................2-4

2.2.5 Higher Council for Urban Planning (HCUP)...................................................................2-5

2.2.6 Ministry of Public Health (MoPH)..................................................................................2-5

2.2.7 Ministry of Interior and Municipalities..........................................................................2-6

2.2.8 Council for Development and Reconstruction (CDR)....................................................2-6

2.2.9 Beirut and Mount Lebanon Water and Wastewater Establishment (BMLWWE)............2-8

2.2.10 Litani River Authority...................................................................................................2-9

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2.2.11 Municipalities.............................................................................................................2-10

2.3 Lebanese Environmental Regulations and Standards....................................................2-12

2.3.1 Overview of the Legal Framework in Lebanon...........................................................2-12

2.3.2 Synopsis of the Legislative Framework for Environmental Protection........................2-13

2.3.3 EIA Draft Decree and Project Relevance to Environmental Protection Law................2-14

2.3.4 Relevant National Environmental Standards..............................................................2-15

2.3.5 Expropriation Law and Procedures.............................................................................2-19

2.4 International Agreements and Treaties..........................................................................2-21

2.4.1 Relevant International Guidelines and Standards......................................................2-22

3. Project Description.................................................................................................................3-1

3.1 Project Components.........................................................................................................3-1

3.2 Construction Aspects.......................................................................................................3-7

3.2.1 Tunnels.........................................................................................................................3-7

3.2.2 Ouardaniye WTW.......................................................................................................3-13

3.2.3 Pipelines.....................................................................................................................3-13

3.2.4 Distribution Chamber and Reservoirs........................................................................3-13

3.2.5 Working Areas............................................................................................................3-14

3.2.6 Access Roads.............................................................................................................3-14

3.3 Operational Aspects.......................................................................................................3-14

3.3.1 Sources of Water........................................................................................................3-14

3.3.2 Joun Regulation Structure..........................................................................................3-16

3.3.3 Tunnel and Pipelines..................................................................................................3-17

3.3.4 Ouardaniye WTW.......................................................................................................3-17

3.3.5 Khalde Surge Structure..............................................................................................3-18

3.3.6 Khalde Flow measurement and Sampling Chamber...................................................3-19

3.3.7 Khalde Distribution Chamber.....................................................................................3-19

3.3.8 Hadath 90 and 125 and Hazmieh 90 Reservoirs........................................................3-19

3.4 Water Quality and Treatment Process...........................................................................3-19

3.4.1 Raw Water Quality.....................................................................................................3-19

3.4.2 Treated Water Quality................................................................................................3-22

3.4.3 Water Treatment Process Scheme.............................................................................3-25

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4. Analysis of Alternatives..........................................................................................................4-1

4.1 Introduction......................................................................................................................4-1

4.2 No Project Option.............................................................................................................4-1

4.3 Formulation of Options.....................................................................................................4-1

4.3.1 Constraints...................................................................................................................4-1

4.3.2 Water Transmission Options........................................................................................4-2

4.3.3 Water Treatment Options.............................................................................................4-2

4.4 Detailed Evaluation..........................................................................................................4-3

4.4.1 Location of Treatment Plant.........................................................................................4-3

4.4.2 Means of Transmission.................................................................................................4-4

4.4.3 Water Treatment Process.............................................................................................4-8

4.4.4 Cost............................................................................................................................4-10

4.4.5 Security......................................................................................................................4-11

4.4.6 Maintenance...............................................................................................................4-11

4.4.7 Operational Flexibility................................................................................................4-11

4.4.8 Environmental Impact................................................................................................4-11

4.5 Selection of Preferred Option.........................................................................................4-11

5. Environmental and social Baseline........................................................................................5-1

5.1 Introduction......................................................................................................................5-1

5.2 Climate and Air Quality....................................................................................................5-1

5.3 Ambient Noise Level........................................................................................................5-1

5.3.1 Data Collection.............................................................................................................5-1

5.3.2 Results.........................................................................................................................5-3

5.3.3 Discussion....................................................................................................................5-4

5.4 Geology and Soils.............................................................................................................5-5

5.4.1 Stratigraphy.................................................................................................................5-5

5.4.2 Structure......................................................................................................................5-5

5.5 Water Resources..............................................................................................................5-7

5.6 Land Use and Landscape.................................................................................................5-7

5.7 Biological Environment....................................................................................................5-8

5.7.1 General Ecology...........................................................................................................5-9

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5.7.2 Sites Description........................................................................................................5-10

5.8 Cultural Heritage............................................................................................................5-16

5.9 Socio Economic Environment.........................................................................................5-16

6. Public Consultation................................................................................................................6-1

6.1 Introduction......................................................................................................................6-1

6.2 Review of Previous Consultations....................................................................................6-1

6.3 Recent Consultations.......................................................................................................6-1

6.4 Public Participation Meeting.............................................................................................6-1

7. Environemental Impact Assessment....................................................................................7-10

7.1 Introduction....................................................................................................................7-10

7.2 Methodology of Impact Evaluation.................................................................................7-10

7.2.1 General Approach......................................................................................................7-10

7.2.2 Impact Evaluation Pre-Screening Level......................................................................7-11

7.2.3 Impact Evaluation Secondary Screening Level..........................................................7-11

7.2.1 Listing of Environmental Impact Severity..................................................................7-13

7.3 Potential Impacts on Ambient Air Quality......................................................................7-14

7.3.1 Impacts from Combustion and Exhaust Emissions.....................................................7-15

7.3.2 Impacts from Dust Generation...................................................................................7-17

7.4 Potential Impacts on Soil and Landscape.......................................................................7-20

7.4.1 Impacts of Project Footprint.......................................................................................7-21

7.4.2 Impact on Soil Quality from Blasting Operations........................................................7-23

7.4.3 Impacts from Solid and Liquid Waste Generation......................................................7-23

7.4.4 Impacts from Accidental Spills of Fuel, Oil and Chemicals.........................................7-26

7.4.5 Spill Prevention and Response Plan...........................................................................7-28

7.5 Potential Impacts on Water Resources..........................................................................7-29

7.5.1 Impacts from Construction Activities.........................................................................7-29

7.5.2 Impacts from Operational Activities...........................................................................7-30

7.6 Potential Impacts on Biodiversity...................................................................................7-34

7.7 Potential Impacts on Archeology and Cultural Heritage.................................................7-37

7.8 Potential Socio-Economic Impacts.................................................................................7-38

7.8.1 Impacts From Construction Phase..............................................................................7-38

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7.8.2 Impacts From Operational Phase...............................................................................7-42

7.9 Summary of the Environmental & Social Impact Assessment before and after Mitigation 7-43

8. Environmental Management Plan..........................................................................................8-1

8.1 Introduction......................................................................................................................8-1

8.2 Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP).......................................................8-1

8.3 ESMP Implementation Plan............................................................................................8-12

1.3.1 Roles and responsibilities...........................................................................................8-12

8.4 Capacity Building...........................................................................................................8-13

1.4.1 Training Needs during Construction Phase................................................................8-13

1.4.2 Training Needs during Operation Phase.....................................................................8-14

8.5 Verification & Monitoring...............................................................................................8-14

1.5.1 Monitoring and Inspection Plan during the Construction Phase.................................8-14

8.5.1 Reporting...................................................................................................................8-20

9. References.............................................................................................................................9-1

10. Appendices..........................................................................................................................10-1

Appendix A: Topographic Maps (1/20,000)....................................................................................10-2

Appendix B: Location Drawings.....................................................................................................10-3

Appendix C: Satellite Images and Photographs.............................................................................10-4

Appendix D: Sludge.......................................................................................................................10-5

Appendix E: Noise Raw Data.........................................................................................................10-6

Appendix F: Archaeological Report................................................................................................10-7

Appendix G: Social Survey Questionnaires....................................................................................10-8

Appendix H: Flyer..........................................................................................................................10-9

Appendix I: Consultations............................................................................................................10-10

Appendix J: Expropriation............................................................................................................10-11

Appendix K: CEMP Template.......................................................................................................10-12

Appendix L: CDR HSE Guidelines.................................................................................................10-13

Appendix M: Map of Component 2...............................................................................................10-14

Appendix N: EHS Guideline Water Sanitation..............................................................................10-15

Appendix O: Water Sampling Analysis Results............................................................................10-16

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LIST OF TABLES

Table 1-1 Overall Project Options.................................................................................................. IIITable 1-2 Summary of Landscape and Biodiversity.......................................................................VTable 1-3 Summary of Socio-Economic situation in main villages................................................VIITable 1-4 Main Public Concerns.....................................................................................................IXTable 1-5 Impacts of the Project on its surrounding with no mitigation measures.......................XITable 1-6 Impacts of the Project on its surrounding with mitigation measures.............................XIITable 1-7 Summary of Environmental and Social Management Plan..........................................XIIITable 2-1 Main Public administrations and stakeholders concerned with the protection of the environment....................................................................................................................................2-3Table 2-2 List of Municipalities...................................................................................................2-10Table 2-3 Summary of institution’s main responsibilities..........................................................2-12Table 2-4 Legal Pyramid............................................................................................................2-12Table 2-5 Summary of Legislations...........................................................................................2-13Table 2-6 Main environmental standards in Lebanon................................................................2-15Table 2-7 Pollutants Classification.............................................................................................2-15Table 2-8 Emission Limits..........................................................................................................2-16Table 2-9 Water pollutants........................................................................................................2-17Table 2-10 Maximum Allowable Noise Levels..........................................................................2-18Table 2-11 Permissible Noise Exposure Standards..................................................................2-18Table 2-12 Ratified or Signed International Agreements........................................................2-21Table 2-13 WB/IFC safeguard policies that are applicable to the project................................2-22Table 3-1. The Awali-Beirut Water Conveyor Sub-Components................................................3-2Table 3-2. Description of Reservoirs.........................................................................................3-6Table 3-3. Description of Pumping Stations..............................................................................3-6Table 3-4 Estimated Spoil Generation.......................................................................................3-10Table 3-5 Description of New Access Roads..............................................................................3-14Table 3-6 Hydroelectric Power Plant Chracteristics...................................................................3-15Table 3-7 Key Factors Determining the Source of Water..........................................................3-16Table 3-8 Ouardaniye WTW –Mean Operational Inputs and Vehicular Movements...................3-17Table 3-9 Ouardaniye WTW –Mean Operational Outputs and Vehicular Movements................3-18Table 3-10 Raw Water Quality.................................................................................................3-21Table 3-11 Water Quality Analysis (1994 and 1995)...............................................................3-22Table 3-12 Drinking Water Standards.....................................................................................3-24Table 3-13 Proposed Specifications of Cascade Aeration System..........................................3-29Table 3-14 Proposed Specification for Pre-oxidation and Disinfection.....................................3-31Table 3-15 Proposed Specifications for Coagulation...............................................................3-32

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Table 3-16 Proposed Specifications for Flocculation...............................................................3-33Table 3-17 Proposed Specifications for Sedimentation...........................................................3-34Table 3-18 Proposed Specifications for Filtration....................................................................3-35Table 3-19 Chemical Storage..................................................................................................3-37Table 3-20 Sludge Yield...........................................................................................................3-39Table 3-21 Conceptual Design Parameters of Sludge Treatment Units...................................3-40Table 4-1 Characteristics of the four proposed WTW sites..........................................................4-3Table 4-2 Ranking of Treatment Processes.................................................................................4-8Table 4-3 Sludge Disposal Alternatives.......................................................................................4-9Table 4-4 Overall Project Options..............................................................................................4-10Table 5-1 Noise Level Monitoring Locations and Methodology....................................................5-2Table 5-2 National Maximum allowable noise levels and permissible occupational Noise Exposure standards according to MoE Decision 52/1 of 1996.........................................................5-4Table 5-3 Rapid Ecological Assessment Sites..............................................................................5-9Table 5-4 Villages, towns and surface structures......................................................................5-18Table 5-5 Villages and towns crossed by the tunnel.................................................................5-19Table 5-6 Demographic and socio-economic characteristics of communities in Mount Lebanon..5-20Table 5-7 General features of surveyed towns and villages......................................................5-28Table 5-8 Main establishments in the study area......................................................................5-33Table 6-1 The main raised concerns...........................................................................................6-2Table 6-2 Questions Raised during Second Public Participation..................................................6-3Table 7-1 Secondary Screening Consequence Level Criteria....................................................7-12Table 7-2 Likelihood Evaluation Criteria....................................................................................7-13Table 7-3 Impact Assessment Severity Matrix.........................................................................7-13Table 7-4 Environmental and Health Impacts of Major Air Pollutants from Combustion Sources.7-16Table 7-5 Potential Negative Impacts on Biodiversity...............................................................7-34Table 7-6 Typical Sound Pressure Levels Reported from Construction Equipment (BS5228:1997)

7-39Table 7-7 Environmental Impact Assessment without mitigation measures.............................7-44Table 7-8 Environmental Impact Assement with mitigated measures........................................................7-45Table 8-1 Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP)..................................................8-2Table 8-2 EMP Implementation Plan..........................................................................................8-12Table 8-3 Construction and Operation Monitoring Plan.............................................................8-16Table 8-4 Water Quality Monitoring Plan during Operation Phase............................................8-19

LIST OF FIGURES

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Figure 2-1 Expropriation Procedures......................................................................................2-20Figure 3-1 Geographic location of project components...........................................................3-5Figure 3-2 Hydraulic Profile......................................................................................................3-9Figure 3-3 Cross-Section Joun-Ouardaniye Tunnel...................................................................3-11Figure 3-4 Cross-Section Ouardaniye-Khalde Tunnel..............................................................3-12Figure 3-5 Schematic Drawing of Water Resources................................................................3-16Figure 3-6 Proposed Treatment Process (Option1).................................................................3-27Figure 3-7 Proposed treatment Process (Option2)......................................................................3-28Figure 4-1 Altenartive Scheme Options....................................................................................4-7Figure 5-1 Noise measurements at the Khalde distribution and connection chambers............5-3Figure 5-2 Geological Map (Source, Duberet 1955, 1/200,000).................................................5-6

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LIST OF ACRONYMS

ALARP As low as reasonably practicable

BMLWWE Beirut and Mount Lebanon Water and Wastewater Establishment

BPEO Best Practicable Environmental Options

BTEX Benzene Toluene Ethyl Benzene Xylene

CAW Combined Air and Water Backwash

CDR Council for Reconstruction and Development

CEMP Construction Environmental Management Plan

CESMP Construction Phase Environmental and Social Management Plan

CoM Council of Ministers

CZM Coastal Zone Management

DGA Directorate General of Antiquities

DGUP Directorate General of Urban Planning

EA Environmental Assessment

EHS Environmental Health and Safety

EIA Environmental Impact Assessment

EISM Environmental Impact Severity Matrix

ELARD Earth link and Advanced Resources Development

EMP Environmental Management Plan

ES & SR Environmental Safety and Social Representative

ESIA Environmental and Social Impact Assessment

ESM Environmental and Social Manager

ESMP Environmental and Social Management Plan

HCUP Higher Council of Urban Planning

HEP Hydro Electric Power plant

IEE Initial Environmental Examination

IFC International Finance Corporation

LRA Litani River Authority

MHER Ministry of Hydraulic and Electric Resources

MoA Ministry of Agriculture

MoC Ministry of Culture

MoE Ministry of Environment

MoEW Ministry of Energy and Water

MoI Ministry of Interior

LIST OF ACRONYMS

MoIMPH Ministry of Public Healthof Interior and Municipalities

MoPH Ministry of Public Health

MoPWT Ministry of Public Works and Transportation

MSDS Material Safety Data Sheets

NGO Non Governmental Organization

NSEQ National Standards for Environmental Quality

ODS Ozone Depleting Substances

OESMP Operation Environmental and Social Management Plan

OP/BP Operational Policy / Bank Procedures

OSHA Occupational Safety and Health Administration

PAD Project Appraisal Documents

PAH Poly Aromatic Hydrocarbons

PM Particulate Matter

PMU Project Management Unit

PPE Personal Protective Equipment

PWWE Public Water and Wastewater Establishment

QA/QC Quality Assurance / Quality Control

RAP Resettlement Action Plan

TBM Tunnel Boring Machine

TMP Traffic Management Plan

TOR Terms of References

VEC Valuable Ecosystem Component

VOC Volatile Organic Compounds

WB World Bank

WHO World Health Organization

WTW Water Treatment Works

WWTP Wastewater Treatment Plants


ESIA FOR AWALI-BEIRUT WATER CONVEYER PROJECTEXECUTIVE SUMMARY

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

INTRODUCTION

Greater Beirut has been facing a deficit in potable water for the past forty years. Shortage in water is estimated today at 145,000 m3/d and 275,000 m3/day for the wet and dry season respectively. In 1970 the Lebanese Government of the day passed a decree (Presidential Decree No. 14522, May 1970) in which it allocated water from the Litani and Awali river catchments to different regions in Lebanon. The proposed Beirut-Awali Project will secure a sustainable source of potable water to Greater Beirut to overcome the existing deficit and meet the city's potable water requirements on the short and medium term.The CDR has initiated the Project following the request of the Ministry of Energy and Water (MoEW) and is seeking to secure financing of the project from the World Bank (WB) whereas the Beirut and Mount Lebanon Water and Wastewater Establishment (BMLWWE) will be covering the local counterpart financing needs.The Project will be implemented on conventional contract basis with expected construction duration of four years and one year operational maintenance.The Project has a World Bank (WB) “Category A” status and therefore a full Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) has been required. This report provides an updated ESIA which identifies potential environmental and social impacts associated with the proposed Project and proposes relevant mitigation measure and management plan.

LEGAL AND INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK

This ESIA complies with the Lebanese Legislative requirements as well as with that international (WB/IFC) and European Union standards.The overall control of water supply and quality is under the Beirut and Mount Lebanon Water and Wastewater Establishment acting under the Ministry of Energy and Water (MoEW) while the Ministry of Environment and various line Ministries are charged with specific regulatory duties.Regionally the Project area is under the Governorate of Mount Lebanon and its subordinate cazas and Municipalities

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The Project is divided into two main components:1. The Awali-Beirut Water Conveyor 2. Improvement and rehabilitation of the water distribution network in Beirut and its suburbs

The Awali- Beirut Water Conveyor includes the following sub-components: Joun Regulation Structure: set into the hillside by the existing adit access from the Joun

tunnel to the hydro-electric power station. Joun to Ourdaniye Tunnel: running underground throughout its length of 4.1 Km.

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Wadi Abou Yabes washout: (discharge point) for emergency discharge or routine maintenance

Ourdaniye Water Treatment Works: including tunnel inlet and outlet portals and the water treatment works. Sludge treatment and disposal facilities will be associated with this works. A washout will be provided for emergency discharge.

Ourdaniye to Khalde tunnel: underground throughout its length of 19.7 km. Inverted Siphon: in the Damour river with ventilation shafts at the hills to the south and

north of the valley. A washout will be provided for use in emergencies and for maintenance.

A surge shaft in the hillside above Khalde: 2,800 mm diameter shaft in reinforced concrete with surface venting structure 7 m diameter in reinforced concrete, including improved access road.

Outlet portal in the hillside above Khalde: termination structure in reinforced concrete and upgraded access road

Flow measurement and sampling chamber on the hillside above Khalde. Twin Pipeline from Khalde portal to Khalde distribution chamber: 1.9 km long and

1,400 mm diameter Khalde distribution and connection chamber: in reinforced concrete containing

isolating and regulating valves. Provides washout to local stream. Twin Pipeline form Khalde distribution chamber to Hadath 90 and 125 reservoirs:

7.6 km long, 1,400mm diameter pipelines in ductile iron with connections to Hadath 90 and 125 reservoirs and local supply.

Hadath 125 reservoir: Storage reservoir, two compartments, effective volume 30,000 m3 in reinforced concrete with isolating valves and small surface kiosk, including access road. Connection to local distribution system.

Hatdath 90 reservoir: Storage reservoir, two compartments, effective volume 50,000 m3

in reinforced concrete with isolating valves and small surface kiosk, including access road. Connection to local distribution system.

Pipeline from Hadath reservoirs to Hazmieh reservoir: 2.7 km long twin 1,300 diameter pipelines in ductile iron, with option for further extension for supply of treated water to Beirut.

Hazmieh 90 reservoir: Storage reservoir, two compartments, effective volume 20,000 m3

in reinforced concrete with isolating valves and small surface kiosk, including access road. Connection to local distribution system.

Component 2 will comprise: The construction of 16 reservoirs (between 500 m3 and 1000 m3 storage capacity each)

and associated pumping stations distributed across the various distribution zones in the project area;

The replacement and/or installation of approximately 187 km of distribution network across the project area in Ein El Delbi, Southern Beirut and parts of the Metn area;

Installation of 200,000 household meters in portions of the project area to be selected by the GBMLWWE and to operate on a volumetric tariff basis;

Installation of bulk meters at the reservoirs and distribution chambers;

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Analysis of AlternativeThe No Project Option and other scheme alternatives were addressed in this report.The No Project alternative is considered to be not viable, as it would have severe environmental and socio-economic impacts in Beirut.Five overall project options were identified and are illustrated in Table 1-1 below:

Table 1-1 Overall Project OptionsOPTION OPTION NAME DESCRIPTION1 Tunnel 1 Tunnel form Joun direct to a WTW at Khalde with pipeline transfer

to reservoirs in Beirut2 Tunnel 2 Tunnel form Joun direct to Khalde via a WTW in Ouardaniye, with

pipeline transfer to reservoirs3 Concrete Pipeline Tunnel from Joun to a WTW at Ouardaniye thence by concrete

pipeline to Khalde with pipeline transfer to reservoirs in Beirut4 Ductile Iron Pipeline Tunnel from Joun to a WTW at Ouardaniye thence by ductile iron

pipeline to Khalde with pipeline transfer to reservoirs in Beirut5 Steel Pipeline Tunnel from Joun to a WTW at Ouardaniye thence by steel pipeline

to Khalde with pipeline transfer to reservoirs in Beirut

Option 2, Tunnel 2 was preferred for the following reasons: Lowest overall cost Greatest security in terms of: Least vulnerability to deliberate damage Best resistance to earthquakes Least risk of leakage and consequential damage Greatest durability and design life Lowest maintenance requirements (and thus minimized supply disruption) Easier to supply the coastal strip from Ouardaniye WTW rather than a Khalde WTW Spare hydraulic capacity available: To supplement inadequate reservoir capacity in Beirut To allow for future expansion of required; and Least environmental impact during construction

ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL BASELINE STUDY

This section sheds light on the existing physical environment and socio-economic status.The Climate conditions in the project area are those of a typical eastern Mediterranean climate; the rainfall is low and restricted to the period between November and March, and the temperatures are high in summer, but the area is not subject to the cold winter that occurs in Lebanese mountains.The existing ambient noise levels recorded near most of the surface structure components averaged between 60 and 65 dB (A). Therefore ambient noise levels already exceed allowed noise levels as per Lebanese legislation (Decision 52/1 of 1996).

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The tunnel passes mainly through the upper and the middle Sannine-Maameltein Formation of Cenomanin and Turonian ages respectively. This formation is mainly composed of hard massive limestone and dolomitic limestone rocks. Exposures of this formation cover most of the study area with a total thickness of around 800 m. Only the upper part of this formation is exposed in the study area.Conformably overlying this formation is the Chekka Formation of Senonian age. It is mainly composed of thinly bedded soft marl and marly limestone rocks. It is mostly exposed in the areas surrounding Joun village. Structurally the area is located few kilometers west of the Coastal Flexure which is the possible extension of the Roum Fault (Nemer, 1999). The flexure extends from Chhim in the southern part to Baawerta and Aaramoun in the central and northern parts of the study area respectively. The Flexure has steeply dipping beds which gentles as we approach the study area. The general inclination of the beds in the study area is around 20˚ dipping towards the west. The Sannine-Maameltein Formation is the major coastal aquifer in the study area. It is karstic in nature with tertiary porosity meaning that groundwater is flowing mainly in fissures, fractures and conduits. There are no permanent springs issuing from this formation except close to the coastal area and mainly below sea level in the form of submarine springs (Feasibility Report, 1994).The position of the water table is closely related to the base level which is the sea level and it gently rises inland with a mean gradient of 11.5 m/km. The depth of the water table was determined from groundwater wells (Feasibility Report, 1994).The raw water will be delivered to the plant by the use of tunnels that belong to the existing hydroelectric system. There are two main sources of water:

1. Karaoun Lake;2. Awali River.

Raw water quality has been analyzed several times in the past with the first one being in 1968/1972, the second one in August 1984 and the third one in 1994/1995. The most recent water quality analysis was conducted in 2001. The first two can be considered outdated as it is suspected that the condition and status of the tunnels, hydroelectric power plant and dams may have changed during the proceeding period. The analysis conducted in 1994/1995 contained some information on the most important parameters; however the feasibility report and the preliminary design report of Montgomery Watson did not cover comprehensive water quality information on a seasonal basis for both the Karaoun and Awali sources. It is not possible to immediately verify the conclusions and assumptions which were the basis of the 1994 feasibility study or the subsequent preliminary design. This is due to lack of recent detailed water quality monitoring data at the points of concern to this project, and the fact that new data would need to be collected over long periods to capture seasonal variations. The landscape along the areas of the Awali project varies between the hills and the coastal planes. A summary of nature of landscape and existing biodiversity is given in Table 1-2 below

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Table 1-2 Summary of Landscape and Biodiversity

STRUCTURE LANDSCAPE BIODIVERSITY

Joun flow regulation Relatively steep valley (degraded site) very common species including

Calicotome villosa (Vahl) Link,

Poterium spinosum L., Phlomis

viscosa Poir., Nerium oleander L.,

Inula viscosa (L.) Aiton, Echinops

viscosus DC. and Notobasis syriaca

(L.) Cass.

Wadi Abou Yabes Washout

Isolated hillside location Significantly degraded environment

Ouardaniye WTW open hillside location Several species were found and identified, including one specimen of Rhus tripartita (Ucria) D.C. and one of Quercus calliprinos Webb, 5 species of orchids in large quantities and many species of butterflies.

Nahr Damour Inverted Siphon

Deep, narrow valley Several types of vegetation cover composed mainly by Platanus

orientalis L. (Oriental Plane), Alnus

orientalis Decne (Oriental Alder), Acer syriacum Boiss. et Gaill. (Syrian Maple), Pistacia lentiscus L. (Mastic), Pistacia palaestina Boiss. (Wild Pistachio), Quercus sp. (Oak), Salix acmophylla Boiss. and Salix

alba L. var. micans And. (Willow) were found.

Khalde surge shaft and outlet

R hillside sites having a steep slope to the

west

Highly degraded and/or with no

important floral biodiversity.

Khalde flow measurement and samplignchamber

This location is characterized by the richness of its flora and the aged specimens of the trees found. This was by far the most important

PREPARED BY ELARD V



STRUCTURE LANDSCAPE BIODIVERSITY

ecosystem visited among the 12 selected sites. This site is on the Pinus brutia Ten series, where the conifers Pinus brutia Ten., Pinus

halepensis Mill. and Cupressus

sempervirens L. are the most abundant formation.

Distribution Chamber Between the new highway and the old coastal road. Offshore, the coastal beach is used for some recreational activities

Highly degraded and/or with no important floral biodiversity.

Hadath 125 reservoir Terraced sloping valley Highly degraded and/or with no important floral biodiversity.

Hadath 90 reservoir Waste ground Highly degraded and/or with no important floral biodiversity.

Hazmieh 90 reservoir Flat to gently sloping ground Highly degraded and/or with no important floral biodiversity.

Archaeological and historical interests are limited at the locations of surface features of the Project, and no remains were uncovered during site investigations. Khalde has yielded some archaeological finds but not directly in the project area.

A summary of social survey conducted at relevant main villages is given in Table 1-3 below:

PREPARED BY ELARD VI

FINAL REPORT COUNCIL FOR DEVELOPMENT AND RECONSTRUCTION (CDR)ESIA FOR AWALI-BEIRUT WATER CONVEYER PROJECT EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Table 1-3 Summary of Socio-Economic situation in main villages

VILLAGE/TOWN

GENERAL DESCRIPTION LIVELIHOOD ACTIVITIES

EDUCATION, CULTURE, COMMUNITY & PUBLIC INFRASTRUCTURE

WATER & WASTEWATER SERVICES

OTHER INFORMATION

Joun

Population: 7500-8000Altitude: 350-400 mSurface area: 12 km2

Land ownership: 20-30% publicly owned, and the remaining is privately ownedLand use: 80% is designated for agricultural use

Agriculture: Olive groves; Citrus orchards; Vegetables and Flowers in greenhouses; the majority of designated agricultural lands remain uncultivated due to the lack of irrigation waterIndustry: Agro-food (Olive oil; Orange Blossom water; Rose water; Carob molasses); Manufacture of Nylon, Tyres and concrete building blocksCommerce: Small shops and garages

High literacy rate (95%)Two public & two private schoolsPublic LibraryAfforestation campaignsSports facilitiesMonastery of Saint SaviourArchaeological featuresOld stone housesOne dispensary & resident doctors

Drinking, service and irrigation water is supplied by the Barouk Water Authority and distributed through a public networkA public, municipal well supplements the supply in addition to many private wells in privately-owned landsSmall hillside reservoirs for rain water harvestingNo sewage network; septic tanks are used

A land survey is underway60-70 building permits were handed out in the last three years60% of the population are seasonal residents

Ouardaniye Population: 4000Altitude: 350 m

Agriculture: Vegetable production in greenhousesIndustry: A grain mill and building blocks factoriesCommerce: Restaurant/Café

One public & one private schoolOne dispensary

Water is supplied through public wells, at depths of 452m and 369m, managed by the municipality, which also manages a distribution networkUp to 150 private wells are drilled in the villageNo sewage network; septic tanks are used

Al-Damour

Population: 30,000Resident population: 10,000 (due to displacement & emigration)Land ownership: The majority of lands are privately ownedLand use: 20% are in agricultural use

Agriculture: 100 ha of banana plantations and vegetable productionCommerce: Restaurants/Cafés; Small shops and garages

Two public & three private schoolsArchaeological featuresOne dispensary & resident doctors

The Damour River waters are used for irrigationDrinking and service water are supplied through municipal public wells and private wellsA sewage network is present but is not operational; septic tanks are used

A land survey has been carried out Around 30 building permits were handed out in the last three years

PREPARED BY ELARD VII


VILLAGE/TOWN



WATER & WASTEWATER SERVICES

OTHER INFORMATION

Khalde

Residential and touristic area, It is a coastal area that is rapidly urbanizing with 15,000-20,000 residents.

Very little agricultural activities

A water distribution network runs through Khaldeh and is supplied from the Mechref village. Water pipes have all been repaired this year. Also, several privately drilled wells exist in the village with a depth ranging from 30-60 m but water is slightly salty. A sewer network is present and is connected to the collector in Khaldeh.

residential and

touristic area

rapidly

urbanizing

Hadath Population: 150,000

Industry: Light industries – Elevators, towels, tilesCommerce: Banks & shops

Many public service institutionsFour public, 10 private & two vocational schools; three universities, including the largest Lebanese University campusTwo hospitals, three dispensaries and many resident doctors

Water is supplied through the Ain El-Delbeh water authority and distributed through a municipally-owned and managed networkA sewage network is present and operational

Hazmieh Population: 6,500 Commerce: Over 10 banks and numerous offices

Many public service institutionsOne public & six private schools; three universitiesTwo hospitals, one dispensary and many resident doctors

Water is supplied through the Ain El-Delbeh water authority from the Daichouniyeh Spring and distributed through a networkA sewage network is present and operational

PREPARED BY ELARD VIII


PUBLIC CONSULTATION

Lack of consultation with the directly affected local communities in the earlier EIA report posed a necessity to target these in the updated study in aim to ensure that adequate and timely information is provided to them and other stakeholders, and that they are given the chance to voice their opinions and concerns.Based on an agreed plan with MoE’s representatives, ELARD team has consulted potentially affected local people and concerned Municipalities during the socio-economic survey. Project leaflets, prepared in Arabic, were distributed during the survey. These aimed at introducing the project while serving as an invitation to participate in a public consultation meeting.The public participation event was held in the Lebanese University in Hadath at the Institute of Fine Arts on the 12th of May 2010.ELARD consultants presented the project details, potential impacts and mitigation measures in a 45-minute presentation and opened the floor for one hour of open discussions with the attendees.Various environmental impacts were discussed during the open session and some concerns rose up by the attendees. The two main serious concerns raised by the public are summarized in Table 1-4 with an explanation of how the concern is addressed by the project proponents.

Table 1-4 Main Public Concerns

CONCERN DESCRIPTION ACTION/ANSWER

Retrieval of 3m3/s of

water

Concerns were raised regarding type and

magnitude of impact that could potentially

affect the natural flow of water in the Awali

River section downstream the Joun HEP after

retrieval of the required amount of water for

the Conveyor Project

CDR representative pointed

out that the impact would

be negligible.

ELARD to investigate the

issue and address it in its

Environmental and Social

Impact Assessment Report

Structural impact from

TBM activity

Concerns on adverse impacts on the

structural stability of the St. Joseph Carmel

School were expressed by the chairperson

since the tunnel is passing beneath the

school.

CDR to provide adequate

geotechnical reports proving

that there will be no direct

impacts resulting from the

tunnel boring activity.

A second Public Consultation covering both components of the project was held for the purpose of disclosing the results of the ESIA study on 27 July 2010 and has targeted the same audience including all related stakeholders as for the first consultation.

PREPARED BY ELARD IX


ENVIRONEMNTAL AND SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

A summary of the impacts of the Project on its surrounding environment assuming no mitigation measures are undertaken is given in Table 1-5 in an Environmental Impact Severity Matrix (EISM) whereas Table1-6 presents the EISM of the project when control and mitigation measures are adopted. With no mitigation measures being implemented, significant impacts would be attributed to the following activities:

Dust generation Construction works Excavation and tunneling Blasting Solid and Liquid waster generation Accidental fuel and chemical spills Traffic (during construction phase) Land Expropriation

PREPARED BY ELARD X


Table 1-5 Impacts of the Project on its surrounding with no mitigation measures

Activity / Source of the Impact

Unmitigated Impacts

Receptor

Air

Qua

lity

Land

scap

e an

d So

il Q

UAL

ITY

wat

er

RESO

URC

ES

Biod

iver

sity

Noi

se

Arch

eolo

gic

al

Soci

o-Ec

onom

ic &

Pu

blic

he

alth

Construction Phase C

Combustion and Exhaust Emissions 3C 3C

Dust Generation 4C 4C

Open Burning of solid waste 2A 2A

Project Footprint 2C 1A 2B

Construction works 4C 2C 2B

Excavation and tunneling works 4C 4C 4C 3C 2C 1A 2B

Blasting 4C 4C 4C

Solid and Liquid waste generation 4C 4C

Accidental Spill of Fuel, Oil and

Chemicals4B 4C

Land Expropriation 4C

Traffic 4C 4C

Operation Phase C

Combustion and Exhaust Emissions

Open Burning of solid waste

Solid and Liquid waste generation 4C 3C 4C


Chemicals3C

Sludge Generation 1C

Water Pumps 3C 3C

Retrieval of 3m3/s of water upstream

Joun HEP1C 1C

Trafffic 2B 2BLEGEND

Consequences Likelihood Acceptability1 - Negligible 4 – Significant A – Low Beneficial

2 - Minor 5 – Catastrophic B – Medium

Negligible with minor mitigation

3 - Moderate Beneficial C – High Minimize Impacts

Unacceptable

PREPARED BY ELARD XI


Table 1-6 Impacts of the Project on its surrounding with mitigation measures


Mitigated Impacts

Receptor

Air

Qua

lity

Land

scap

e an

d So

il Q

UAL

ITY

wat

er

RESO

URC

ES

Biod

iver

sity

Noi

se

Arch

eolo

gica

l

Soci

o-Ec

onom

ic &

Pu

blic

hea

lth






Construction works 2C 1B 1B

Excavation and tunneling works 2C 2C 2B 2B 1B 1A 1B

Blasting 2C 2C 2B

Solid and Liquid waste generation 2A 2A

Accidental Spill of Fuel, Oil and Chemicals 2A 2B

Land Expropriation 3B

Traffic 3B 3B

Operation Phase C



Solid and Liquid waste generation 2A 1C 2A

Accidental Spill of Fuel, Oil and Chemicals 1C


Water Pumps 1B 1B

Retrieval of 3m3/s of water upstream Joun

HEP

1C 1C

Trafffic 1C 1CLEGEND

Consequences Likelihood Acceptability1 - Negligible 4 – Significant A – Low Beneficial2 - Minor 5 – Catastrophic B – Medium Negligible with minor

mitigation3 - Moderate Beneficial C – High Minimize Impacts

Unacceptable

PREPARED BY ELARD XII


ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

Table 1-7 Summary of Environmental and Social Management Plan

PROJECT ACTIVITY

POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL

IMPACTS

MITIGATION MEASURES INSTITUTIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

(INCL. ENFORCEMENT & COORDINATION)

COST ESTIMATE

CONSTRUCTION ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN (CESMP)Site Clearance/ Excavation

Drilling/blasting, pipeline construction and tunnel boring works (to a lesser extent)

Solid and liquid waste generation from camp operations (such as sanitary facilities and kitchen) and pipelines pressure testing)

Accidental chemical / oil spills or leaks (from excavators and tunnel boring machine)

Disturbance to land/landscape (Land scaring from Project Footprint)

Compromised Visual Amenity

Contamination of soil quality.

Limiting the land clearance area required for pipelines in the vicinity of forested areas of Khalde; Planning and marking access routes and adopting minimum safe operating width Using existing tracks/ routes to reduce the size of the impacted area; Minimizing (whenever possible) the time and space of heavy machinery use and constructing intensive activities and using whenever possible existing and previously disturbed land and roads to access site and avoiding off-road driving, areas crossing wadis or that are prone to erosion; Avoiding excessive removal of topsoil and minimizing grading and clearing of vegetation;Stabilization of topsoil and spoil stockpiles along the pipelines previously removed during excavation works and using it as cover material whenever possible during backfilling and site restoration;A preliminary project handover and restoration plan should be developed that identifies disposal options for all equipment and materials, including products used and wastes generated on site;Project handover (end of Construction) should comprise the complete closure of the labor camps including the removal of all equipments and vehicles and other fixtures and infrastructures and covering of trenches and restoring of all sites to original state.Reduce the use of blasted debris as much as possible and allow backfilling and site restoration from topsoil and spoil excavated by conventional methods (such as drilling) and generated by the tunnel

Implementation: Contractor.Supervision: ESM

No cost incurred

PREPARED BY ELARD XIII


PROJECT ACTIVITY


IMPACTS



COST ESTIMATE

boring works;Perform a soil sampling campaign in the Project affected areas, specifically where blasting activities took place, in order to document the soil conditions (physic-chemical characteristics, petroleum contamination, etc.) following the cessation of construction works

Environmental Consultant (to be hired by CDR)

1500

Loading and Unloading operations (at construction sites and spoil handling facilities)

Truck transportation (haulage)

Operation of on-site diesel-fuelled generators

Increase in ambient dust levels(fugitive dust emissions)

Increase in combustion/exhaust emissions (release of combustion gases, NOx, CO2,SO2, CO)

All vehicles, plant and equipment engines shall be properly maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions to maximize combustion efficiency and minimize emissions; Usage of vehicles/machines equipped with exhaust emission control units;All trucks transporting material likely to generate dust should be properly covered according to Lebanese requirements;Maintenance and reporting of monthly fuel consumption records;

Any machinery, which is intermittent in use, should be shut off in periods of non use or, where this is impracticable to be throttled back to a minimum;Small combustion source emissions (with a capacity of up to 50 megawatt hours thermal (MWth)) should adhere to the IFC emission standards for exhaust emissions in the General EHS Guidelines and MoE Decision 8/1 of 2001, whichever stricter;Combustion source emissions with a capacity of greater than 50 MWth should comply with the IFC EHS Guidelines for Thermal Power; Implement proper dust control measures. Measures will include the damping down of dust if excavations are occurring in high winds, rig dust suppression units and the covering piles of excavated material to prevent mobilization (with nets or matting);Efficient scheduling of deliveries as well as establishing and enforcing


No cost incurred

PREPARED BY ELARD XIV


PROJECT ACTIVITY


IMPACTS



COST ESTIMATE

appropriate speed limits over all paved and unpaved surfaces (< 40 km/h) via a Traffic Management Plan (TMP) approved by the Project Proponent.

Drilling/blasting, pipeline construction

Vehicular movement and Equipment operation

Increase in ambient noise level Fitting all machinery and vehicles with effective exhaust silencers;

Maintaining all machinery and vehicles in good repair and in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions;Limit the working hours when near sensitive sites (schools, health care unit, etc.);Proper selection of equipment for the specific tasks considering the lowest sound power level;Maintenance of equipment as not to create unnecessary noise owing to mechanical problems;Operation of equipment in a manner considerate to the ambient noise background;Avoidance of leaving equipment idling unnecessary;Elimination of tonal, impulsive or low frequency noise through noise control engineering techniques where feasible (e.g. dampers, fitting of mufflers, etc.)Provision of alternative methods if necessary (substituting hammering actions with hydraulics);Provision by the Contractor of adequate buffer zone with sensitive populations in the Project Area; Mandatory use of noise plugs during noisy activities andProper communication with receptors whenever highly noisy events are planned


No cost incurred

PREPARED BY ELARD XV


PROJECT ACTIVITY


IMPACTS



COST ESTIMATE

Vehicular movement &Truck Trips/Haulage

Traffic congestion Liaising with community and government by a dedicated resource in the field throughout the duration of the project (i.e. establishing a complaint register to document potential public complaints. Clearly identify the project footprint to avoid accidents during further development of the area particularly in the designated and construction sites.Having a Traffic Management Plan (TMP);Allowing only certified and trained drivers to carry out transportation related activities;Having an Emergency Response Procedures in place; andHaving a maintenance program to all vehicles associated with construction activities.


No cost incurred

Fuel, Oil and Chemical Handling and Storage

Contamination of soil quality and groundwater resources

Storage Where appropriate, fuel, oil and chemicals stores will be sited in specific designated areas on site on an impervious base within a suitably contained area;The fuel storage facilities will have a secondary containment, such as a berm, capable of holding the capacity of the largest container plus 10% to accommodate rainfall;Fresh oil and waste oil will be segregated and stored separately to prevent a potential risk of mixing;All storage tanks will be positioned to minimize the risks of damage by impact; All storage tanks will be of sufficient strength and structural integrity; No storage tank will be used for the storage of fuel, oil or chemicals unless its material and construction are compatible with the type of materials to be stored and storage conditions (e.g. pressure and temperature);Drip trays will be installed underneath equipment such as diesel generators, transformers to contain leakage. The drip trays will be maintained and kept drained of rainwater; and


No cost incurred

PREPARED BY ELARD XVI


PROJECT ACTIVITY


IMPACTS



COST ESTIMATE

All fuel and oil will be inventoried and use recorded.Refueling

Supervision of refueling at all times by appropriate personnel: Checks to fill hoses, valves and nozzles for signs of wear and tear prior to operation; Checks to tank levels prior to delivery to prevent overfilling through side glass or manually by dipstick logs;Locating fill pipes within the containment (unless shut-off valves are fitted); Grounding of tanks and grounding of vehicles during fuel transfers; andEnsuring a supply of suitable absorbent materials is available at re-fuelling points for use in dealing with minor spills. If a leak or spill occurs during loading or offloading operations, the operations will be stopped and the spill will be contained, cleaned up and collected based on the Spill Response Plan.Chemicals

Personnel handling chemicals will be trained in their handling and use and aware of the associated hazards including the personnel protective equipment (PPE) requirements through pre-task instruction.Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for all chemicals supplied will be held at the storage area, the point of use and by the site medical staff and site ES&SR representative; Safety signage will be in place;All chemical deliveries (loading and unloading operations) will be supervised at all times and will be transferred to a secure storage area without delay;Storage of chemicals will be sited on designated areas at the site; an inventory of all chemicals on site will be kept and use will be recorded. Chemicals will be properly packaged, labeled and stored; Dangerous/hazard chemicals will be stored separately;Chemical storage drums will be in good condition and with sealed bungs. All used drums will be washed / flushed with water and pierced before

PREPARED BY ELARD XVII


PROJECT ACTIVITY


IMPACTS



COST ESTIMATE

leaving the site to prevent local use and subsequent exposure to contaminants if they are not able to be returned to the original supplier.All tanks and containers will be clearly labeled with the nature of the contents and placarded with the MSDS. The storage of chemical products in containers or on palettes equipped with plastic dust cover against severe weather. Chemicals will be shaded. Chemical storage drums and packaging are to be returned to the original supplier in an orderly fashion i.e. palletized and shrink wrapped.

Waste Management


CDR shall promote the use of a Licensed Municipal Waste Facility in coordination with MoE. All personnel shall be responsible for ensuring that standards of “good housekeeping” are maintained. This will include clearance of all rubbish and work associated debris;Contractors to include a waste management plan as part of CEMP.And CDR to ensure that solid waste management is included in the contractor’s agreement.

Implementation: CDR/Contractor.Supervision: ESM

No cost incurred

OPERATION ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN (OESMP)

Site clearance /excavation and spoil stockpiling activities

Accidental spills

Tunneling activities

Contamination of groundwater Quality Clean up spills if any with an absorbent material such as cat litter.

Develop a contingency plan to prevent potential groundwater contamination.Passing water resulting from tunneling and excavation through oil separator prior to discharge in the event that it has been contaminated with oily residues.Minimize the planned amount of land to be disturbed as much as possible. Use special construction techniques in areas of steep slopes, erodible soils, and stream crossings.Reclaim or apply protective covering (e.g., vegetative cover) on disturbed soils as quickly as possible.

Implementation: Contractor.SUPERVISION: ESM

No cost incurred

PREPARED BY ELARD XVIII


PROJECT ACTIVITY


IMPACTS



COST ESTIMATE

Avoid creating excessive slopes during excavation and blasting operations since these activities accelerate water percolation into ground.Monitor construction near aquifer recharge areas to reduce potential contamination of the aquifer.Disposal of excess excavation materials in approved areas to control erosion and minimize leaching of hazardous materials.Impose site-specific Best Management Practices, potentially including silt fences, hay bales, vegetative covers, and diversions, to reduce impacts to surface water from the deposition of sediments beyond the construction areas. Immediate implementation of the Oil spill response plan in case of accidental events.

Site clearance /Excavation

Vehicular movement

Destruction of natural habitat (loss of forested areas and few native flora species)

Develop a detailed plants Inventory at the 3 identified sensitive sites (Ouardaniye WTW, Nahr Damour Siphon/Washout and Khalde Flow measurement and sampling chamber) prior and post construction activities commencement as part of CEMP;Developing an ecosystem rehabilitation plan to regenerate and reintroduce some of the native species of trees (especially at the most degraded areas) present in the studied area, therefore leading to positive impacts on biodiversity.

Implementation: Biodiversity expert

1200

Special effort and attention should be given to the 4 sensitive sitesLimiting vehicular transport to defined roads as to prevent unnecessary damage to vegetation;Preserving top soil excavated by conventional methods (such as drilling);Avoiding introducing invasive plant species (e.g. weeds).All affected areas must be replanted with indigenous species appropriate to the respective sites; and

Implementation: Contractor.Supervision: ESM Biodiversity expert

No cost incurred

Physical excavation (blasting, site

Demolition, alteration of or damage to

Prepare a brochure to help crew members recognize any discovery of buried antiquities; and Archaeologist

500

PREPARED BY ELARD XIX


PROJECT ACTIVITY


IMPACTS



COST ESTIMATE

clearance, trenching)

archaeological resources, whether on surface or below-ground

Direct reporting to local authorities (DGA) in case of new findings during Construction and proper documentation of historic sites.


No cost incurred

Land Expropriation

Permanent and irreversible loss of land and some loss of agricultural greenhouses (agricultural business)

Temporary severance / disturbance of public rights-of-way and access to community resources and services.

Consultation with potentially affected communities prior to expropriation procedures.Fair and full compensation for land and other assets expropriated for the project in the public interest as stated in the Lebanese expropriation law (Law No. 58/1991 and its amendments (2006))..Compensation to local farmers who lost their agricultural lands (loss of livelihood);Preparation of a Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) (ongoing) as per the World Bank standards.

ESM No cost incurred

Fuel and Chemicals handling & storage


Selecting appropriate locations for septic tanks installation as to avoid leakage and contamination of groundwater.Immediate cleaning of a spill by removing affected top soil layer by trained employeesContinuous in-situ sampling of soil in the vicinity and underneath the spill for potential contaminant; andStopping the source of spill (close valve, seal pipe, seal hole etc…);Refueling in a designated fueling area that includes a temporary berm to limit, if not prevent, the spread of any spill.

Implementation: WTW operatorSupervision: During the first year of operation: ESMAfter project handover: Environmental representative from BMLWWA

No cost incurred

Wastewater Contamination of CDR should commission local contractor for the collection of domestic Implementation: 200 (unit cost)

PREPARED BY ELARD XX


PROJECT ACTIVITY


IMPACTS



COST ESTIMATE

generation (sanitary/process)

soil quality and groundwater resources

wastewater and disposal to nearest public sewerage network ( Frequency will be based on septic tank volume)

Local contractorSupervision year of operation: ESMAfter project handover: Environmental representative from BMLWWA

Adopting as much as possible dry cleaning techniques to decrease resultant wastewater, and to avoid flushing of spills to deeper soil layers.Develop a stormwater management plan to ensure compliance with regulations and prevent off-site migration of contaminated stormwater.

Implementation: WTW OperatorSupervision: During the first year of operation: ESMAfter project handover: Environmental representative from BMLWWA

No cost incurred

Leaching from Naameh landfill

Contamination of groundwater quality

Regular monitoring wells data inspection for the section of the tunnel lying downstream the land fill Giving additional consideration for the subject strip during maintenance of the tunnelChecking for any fissures or fractures in the tunnel wall during maintenance

During the first year of operation: ESMAfter project handover: Environmental representative from BMLWA

Sludge handling and disposal

Contamination of groundwater resources

Design considerations for sludge management include dewatering and thickening processes prior to disposal.Re-use of separated water at the inlet of the WTW instead of discharge of

Implementation: WTW OperatorSupervision:

No cost incurred

PREPARED BY ELARD XXI


PROJECT ACTIVITY


IMPACTS



COST ESTIMATE

liquid effluent to wadis. In the event of effluent discharge into the Wadi (following sludge dewatering), the former should comply with the Lebanese new standards for discharge into receiving water bodies (Decision No. 8/1).Investigate the disposal of sludge cake to the Naameh landfill instead of quarry rehabilitation. (In the latter case, potential for percolation/leaching into groundwater).

During the first year of operation: ESMAfter project handover: Environmental representative from BMLWWA

Operation of pumping stations

Nuisance to noise-sensitive receptors

Fitting all equipment and pumps with effective exhaust silencersProper selection of pumps for the specific task considering the lowest sound power level; and,Maintenance of pumping stations as not to create unnecessary noise owing to mechanical problemsInsulating generator rooms and engines.

Implementation: WTW ContractorSupervision: During the first year of operation: ESMAfter project handover: Environmental representative from BMLWWA

No cost incurred

PREPARED BY ELARD XXII

FINAL REPORT COUNCIL FOR DEVELOPMENT AND RECONSTRUCTION (CDR)ESIA FOR AWALI-BEIRUT WATER CONVEYER PROJECT INTRODUCTION

1. INTRODUCTION1.1BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Greater Beirut has been facing a deficit in potable water for the past forty years. Shortage in water is estimated today at 145,000 m3/d and 275,000 m3/day for the wet and dry seasons, respectively. In 1970 the Lebanese Government of the day passed a decree (Presidential Decree No. 14522, May 1970) in which it allocated water from the Litani and Awali river catchments to different regions in Lebanon. As a result, Greater Beirut was allocated 50 million cubic meters for the dry season. This corresponds to 250,000 m3/day (3m3/s) of water.In 1977 the Ministry of Energy and Water (MoEW) on behalf of the Government requested from the Council of Development and Reconstruction (CDR) to study the options for providing additional water resources to Greater Beirut. Significant number of studies dealing with conveying water by means of a tunnel and pipelines has been carried out.At the beginning of 1994, CDR contracted Montgomery Watson and Engico to update the feasibility study submitted by them in 1985 to re-evaluate options of the tunnel and pipeline for the conveyor. Montgomery Watson and Engico completed the feasibility study in April 1995. They completed the detailed design reports and tender documents in late 1997 and early 1998. While Montgomery Watson and Engico were preparing the studies relating to the Awali-Beirut Conveyor, CDR based on Government Decision 31, 7/4/1982, in coordination with the Ministry of Finance and the World Bank, started to investigate ways of funding and executing the conveyor. A decision was made to execute the conveyor on the basis of a contract, which would have a life span of 25 years.Today the CDR is seeking to secure financing of the project from the World Bank whereas the Beirut and Mount Lebanon Water and Wastewater Establishment (BMLWWE) will be covering the local counterpart financing needs. It was finally decided to commission the project based on conventional contracting basis with four years expected construction duration and one year operational maintenance.The CDR has contracted Montgomery Watson Harza to re-evaluate its latest feasibility study and has contracted ELARD group for the purpose of updating the latest Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) study submitted by Montgomery Watson and Engico in 1998.

1.2GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION AND LOCATION

The project aims at securing a sustainable source of potable water to Greater Beirut to overcome the existing deficit and meeting the city's potable water requirements on the short and medium term.The Project encompasses the following components:

1. The construction of a transmission conveyor from the Awali River just north of Saida to Beirut (Awali-Beirut Conveyor);

2. The construction of water supply networks within Greater Beirut area to distribute the water supplied through the conveyor to the inhabitants of the area (Greater Beirut Water Supply Networks).

The Awali-Beirut Conveyor will supply, by gravity, the Greater Beirut area with approximately 250,000 m3/day (3 m3/s) during the dry season. The conveyor will meet the needs of Greater Beirut in the short to medium terms. A detailed description of sub-components is provided in Section2.

PREPARED BY ELARD 1


The Greater Beirut Water Supply Networks component comprises construction of 16 reservoirs (between 500 m3 and 1000 m3 storage capacity each), replacement and/or installation of approximately 187 km of distribution network and associated pumping stations as well as Installation of 200,000 household meters in portions of the project area to be selected by the GBMLWWE and to operate on a volumetric tariff basis.Construction works are expected to be completed within four years.

1.3ESIA OBJECTIVES

The ESIA is an important decision-making tool required by the Ministry of Environment and by the World Bank, that ensures that the environmental hazards and effects of the Project are identified and evaluated prior to operations, and that appropriate control measures are implemented. The main objective of this study is to determine the potential environmental and social impacts associated with the proposed Project.

The objectives of this ESIA study are to:

- Identify all applicable Lebanese national legislation, policies, standards and international treaties, agreements, industry standards and guidelines and regulatory environmental requirements for the project, etc.;

- Provide a detailed description of all Project activities and work plans to be carried out in sea and on land.

- Describe the existing environmental baseline conditions of the Study Area covering the physical, marine biodiversity, socio-economic, and cultural elements likely to be affected by the proposed dredging and disposal activities and/or likely to cause adverse impacts upon the Project, including both natural and man-made environments;

- Identify and assess the potential impacts on environmental and social resources associated with the Project;

- Identify the nature and extent of any significant potential environmental and social impacts be they positive (beneficial) or negative (adverse), temporary or permanent. This shall include routine, non-routine (planned) operations and unplanned (accidental) events;

- Identify any significant cumulative or transboundary impacts of the project and recommend appropriate actions to mitigate or minimize these impacts during the project execution;

- Identify and evaluate appropriate mitigation measures for these impacts;

- Identify any residual impacts following application of mitigation; and

- Identify, assess and specify methods, measures and standards to be included in the detailed design, operation and handover of the Project, which are necessary to mitigate these impacts and reduce them to acceptable levels.

The ESIA study shall ensure that:- The Project complies with international treaties, agreements and industrial standards and

guidelines.

PREPARED BY ELARD 2


- The Project under assessment complies with relevant Lebanese legislations, standards and World Bank requirements.

- In the absence of any relevant Lebanese standards or requirements for sampling, construction and disposal operations, the Project should be at a minimum, compatible with international standards, such as those issued by the World Bank, IFC, OSHA,...

- Transparency in Project activities and engagement of local authorities and community regarding its environmental, social and economical aspects.

1.4ESIA REPORT STRUCTURE

This updated ESIA study is executed in accordance with the Lebanese Environmental Protection Law No. 444 of 2002, the Lebanese Draft EIA Decree, as well as World Bank guidelines.

The report is structured as follows:

- Introduction;

- Legal and Institutional Framework;- Project Description;

- Analysis of Alternatives;- Environmental and Social Baseline;

- Public Participation;- Environmental and Social Impacts Assessment;

- Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) including mitigation, monitoring, and institutional strengthening-capacity building and training;

- Appendices

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ESIA FOR AWALI-BEIRUT WATER CONVEYER PROJECTLEGAL AND INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK

2. LEGAL AND INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK2.1INTRODUCTION

This chapter presents an overview of all environmental legislation and standards relevant to the construction and operation of the Awali-Beirut Water Conveyor Project. This section sheds light on the legal and institutional framework and identifies gaps and deficiencies in the national legal and institutional system.

The objective is also to ensure compliance not only with the Lebanese environmental laws and regulations, but also with the relevant international agreements, standards and guidelines of which Lebanon is signatory and to observe non-statutory corporate standards and good practice guidance.

2.2INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK AND SECTOR ORGANIZATION IN LEBANON

2.2.1 Institutional Framework for the Protection of the Environment

In 1981, a state Ministry of Environment was created for the management of environmental affairs such as the use of pesticides, deforestation and forest fires, solid waste disposal, protection of native biodiversity, etc.

In 1993, Law 216 established the Ministry of Environment (MoE) and defined its mandates and functions. Article 2 of this Law stipulates that the MoE should formulate a general environmental policy and propose measures for its implementation in coordination with the concerned government administrations. The article indicates that the MoE should protect the natural and man-made environment in the interests of public health and welfare, and fight pollution from whatever source by taking preventative and remedial action. The MoE is charged in particular with developing the following aspects of environmental management:

A strategy for solid waste and wastewater treatment and disposal, through participation in appropriate committees, conducting studies for this purpose, and commissioning appropriate infrastructure works;

Permitting conditions for new industry, agriculture, quarrying and mining, and the enforcement of appropriate remedial measures for establishments existing before promulgation of this law;

Conditions and regulations for the use of public land, marine and reverie resources in such a way as to protect the environment; and

Encouragement of private and collective initiatives that improve environmental conditions.

Law 216 was amended twice according to Decrees 5591/94 and 667/97 so as to strengthen the Ministry and reorganize its mission and prerogatives along four general policy principles; 1) Regionally balanced development, 2) Protection of the environment through preventative

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measures, 3) Adoption of the polluter pays principle and 4) Integration of environmental policies into other sectoral development policies.

The Ministry of Environment plays also a role in Coastal Zone Management (CZM), as mandated by law 690/2005 that specified the prerogatives of the Ministry as follows:

The formulation of strategies, policies, programs, and action plans for CZM;

The development of relevant legislation, and participation in the preparation of international treaties and protocols;

The promotion of awareness and guidance on CZM issues in the community;

The specification of environmental guidelines for:

The classification of establishments

Master plans for zoning (in cooperation with MoPWT)

The creation and exploitation of public beaches

Formulating the strategy, action plans, programs, and studies required for the integrated management of hazardous and non-hazardous solid waste, domestic and industrial wastewater, in addition to monitoring their implementation;

Protection of the coastal zone and of territorial waters;

Monitoring air, soil and water quality; recommending preventive and corrective measures, and monitoring their application;

Regulating hunting and fishing activities in coordination with the MoA;

Controlling the use and disposal of chemicals;

Conducting inspection visits and stopping contraventions.

A major step was achieved when, in July 2002, a comprehensive environmental protection law – Law 444 - reflecting the policy principles mentioned above, was introduced. Law 444 sets the fundamental principles that govern the management of the environment and the use of natural resources.

In doing so, the Ministry of Environment does not undertake its environmental management efforts in isolation. Indeed a number of other government ministries and bodies have also environmental responsibilities Table 2-8 lists the main stakeholders concerned with the environment.

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Table 2-8 Main Public administrations and stakeholders concerned with the protection of the environment

PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION PREROGATIVES

Ministry of Environment (MoE)

MoE reviews, approves or refuses Environmental Impact Assessment

reports prepared by engineering and/or consultancy firms for existing or

for potential projects

Ministry of Energy and Water

(MoEW)

MoEW monitors surface and underground water quality. It also estimates

water needs and uses in all the regions, and identifies the conditions and

systems needed for surface and underground water exploitation. It then

develops the schemes for distribution of water (drinking and irrigation).

Ministry of Public Works and

Transportation (MoPWT)

MoPWT manages, via its different directorates, roads, bridges and water

channels. Through its different directorates, it manages land and maritime

transportation as well as land use planning.

Higher Council of Urban

Planning (HCUP)

HCUP is responsible for urban and rural planning. In doing so it reviews

designs and plans of villages and towns, including zoning proposals for

these areas. It also reviews project decrees aiming at expropriation.

Ministry of Public Health (MoPH)

MoPH is responsible for safeguarding and improving public health through

for example setting allowable levels for contaminants in water, inspecting

water quality in public beaches and tourist resorts and protecting water

resources, specifically coastal underground water reservoirs.

Ministry of Interior (MoI) MoI stops all kinds of infractions and violations.

Council of Development and

Reconstruction (CDR)

CDR prepares all construction and development plans in the country. It

also suggests the economic, financial, and social policies needed for the

implementation of these plans and accordingly sets the priorities and

presents them to the CoM for approval.

MunicipalitiesRepresent the level of local government with legal status, financial and

administrative independence, which exercises powers and responsibilities

over the territory it is granted by law.

2.2.2 Main Public Stakeholders concerned with the project

Several stakeholders play an important role in the management of natural resources and livelihood strategies within the Project area. These stakeholders and their mandate relevant to the project are presented in the sections below and summarized in Table 2-10:

2.2.3 Ministry of Energy and Water (MoEW)

Since its creation, the Ministry of Energy and Water handles water issues and controls water privileges.

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The new law organizing the water sector – Law 221/2000 - confirmed the ministry’s role in monitoring surface and underground water quality, setting the standards that should be adopted in the studies and execution of public investments related to water as well as identifying the conditions and systems for surface and underground water exploitation. It also enhanced the Ministry’s control over the water amounts extracted from underground aquifers.

Indeed, Article 2 of this Law enumerates the competencies and missions of the Ministry of Energy and Water as follows:

Monitoring, studying, and estimating the volume of water resources, and estimating water needs and uses in all regions;

Monitoring the quality of surface and groundwater and establishing relevant standards;

Developing a general scheme for the allocation and distribution of drinking water and irrigation water throughout the country; designing and continuously updating a Masterplan for water to be submitted through the Minister to the Council of Ministers (CoM) for approval;

Designing, studying, and implementing large water projects such as dams, mountain lakes, tunnels, diversion of riverbeds, water networks, etc., and overseeing their operation;

Protecting water resources against losses and pollution by elaborating legal texts and taking necessary measures and action to prevent water pollution and restore its initial natural quality;

Developing standards to be adopted in the studies conducted by Water and Wastewater Establishments, and the implementation of their works; in addition to guidelines and regulations for the exploitation of surface and groundwater and the management of wastewater, and standards for the protection and monitoring of water quality.

2.2.4 Ministry of Public Works and Transportation (MoPWT)

According to Decree 2872/1959 (Organization of the Ministry of Public Works and Transportation) and its amendments, the Ministry of Public Works and Transport is composed of five directorates having each its own prerogatives.

Of all 5 directorates, the Directorate General of Land and Maritime Transport and the Directorate General of Urban Planning are those that are mainly and directly involved in CZM.

Indeed, the Directorate General of Land and Maritime Transport (Decree 1611/1971) is responsible for all matters relating to land and maritime transport, the supervision of ports, marinas, and the public maritime domain, in addition to its authority on the Organization of Railways and Public Transport. Whereas, the Directorate General of Urban Planning (DGUP) is responsible for specifying and organizing land use planning through zoning of regions, specifying allowed investments for different land uses, as well as architectural constraints, and suitable conditions for ensuring the integration of projects within their surrounding from an aesthetic, architectural, infrastructural, environmental, and socio-economic point of view. As for actual enforcement, it is the responsibility of the local authority (municipality/ district) and the Security

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Forces. The DGUP interferes in the case of complaints, and plays an inspection role upon termination of building construction by verifying the compatibility of facilities with permit conditions and specifications.

On the other hand, the Directorate General of Roads and Buildings (Decree 13379/1998), is in charge of the design, execution and maintenance of roads, bridges, walls, and water channels. The Directorate also designs, expropriates, subcontracts and supervises works including maintenance of public buildings and assets. The presence of a Department of Environment and Traffic Safety within the Directorate General of Roads and Buildings should be noted, which is responsible for assessing the environmental impact of projected roads, and recommending mitigation measures.

2.2.5 Higher Council for Urban Planning (HCUP)

The Higher Council for Urban Planning (HCUP) that was created in 1983 (decree-law 69/1983) is the party responsible for urban and rural planning. It comprises representatives from CDR, MoIM, MoPWT, MoE, MoC and other concerned ministries, municipalities as well as Order of Engineers and Architects. It can meet with the concerned parties (such as municipalities and public institutions) for discussing issues pertaining to them and it will give opinion regarding

Designs and plans of villages and towns, and zoning designs

Project decrees aiming at the creation of real estate companies, conducting expropriation and allotment

Revision of building permits and allotment

Projects aiming at modifying urban planning and building laws

2.2.6 Ministry of Public Health (MoPH)

The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) is responsible for safeguarding and improving public health, through the prevention of disease, supervision of health care institutions, suggestion of new legislation or modification of existing ones. The MoPH consists of Central and Regional Departments, as well as a Department of Projects and Programs.

Besides suggesting the modification of laws and regulations relating to health prevention, as prompted by social and scientific developments; and preparing relevant project laws and decrees, MoPH is also responsible for setting allowable levels for contaminants in water, inspecting water quality in public beaches and tourist resorts and protecting water resources, specifically coastal underground water reservoirs.

The Ministry is also in charge of:

Conducting studies and suggesting protocols aiming at preserving the environment's safety from threats to public health;

Formulating project decisions on sanitary and preventive guidelines for all kinds of classified establishments;

Suggesting specifications and technical conditions required in the construction of sewage

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and potable water networks, and solid waste collection and disposal projects;

Suggesting classification of new types of industrial facilities, and re-classifying those that need reconsideration;

Approval of projects such as the establishment of slaughterhouses and construction of sewage networks.

With regards to the Regional Departments (or Public Health Services), they are distributed in all Governorates except in the Governorate of Beirut, and all districts. They are responsible for implementing health protocols in the Governorates, providing preventive and laboratory services. Sanitary Engineers in these services also give their opinion regarding the establishment of slaughterhouses and sewage networks in cities. As for the District Physicians, they monitor potable water quality, solid waste disposal, and sanitary guidelines in residential, recreational and occupational settings.

2.2.7 Ministry of Interior and Municipalities

The Ministry of Interior and Municipalities is concerned with Lebanon's internal policy affairs, encompassing preparation, coordination, and execution; in addition to safeguarding discipline and security; overseeing the affairs of governorates, districts, municipalities, unions of municipalities, the Independent Municipal Fund, mayors, local elected councils, villages, parties, NGOs; and managing motor vehicle and traffic affairs, etc.

The Ministry of Interior and Municipalities is composed of several distinct directorates having different prerogatives as set in Decree 4082/2000.

The Directorate General of Administrative and Local Councils mainly has a supervisory and monitoring role over municipalities, which are themselves directly in charge of CZM and other issues. Overseeing the application of laws and regulations relating to local affairs, municipalities and their unions, and other local councils; suggesting plans and developing studies aiming at the development of local life and activities and promoting public participation in them, and submitting these studies to the Minister of Interior and Municipalities;

The Directorate General of Internal Security Forces plays a monitoring and enforcement role in CZM through an enforcement body consisting of the Coastal Brigade Command and the Coastal Detachments, responsible for implementing laws and regulations relating to coastal control and for sanctioning violations, in coordination with the enforcement body affiliated to the MoPWT. Its duties cover the parts of the coast situated within the municipal authority and outside ports and harbors.

2.2.8 Council for Development and Reconstruction (CDR)

The CDR is a public institution that was created in 1977 - in partial replacement of the Ministry of Planning - to be the Government unit responsible for reconstruction and development. CDR has unprecedented powers to avoid any administrative routine that could slow down the reconstruction

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process, especially in the financial field. It is financially and administratively independent, and directly affiliated to the Council of Ministers (CoM). Decree 5/1977 specified CDR’s responsibilities which are formulated around 4 main axes (i) Planning, (ii) Consultancy and Guidance, (iii) Financial, (iv) Implementation and Monitoring. These are to be implemented in cooperation with other ministries and stakeholders and can be summarized as follows:

Planning:

Development of a general plan, consecutive plans and programs for construction and development activities; in addition to the suggestion of economic, financial, and social policy in line with the general plan. All of these plans and policies are submitted for approval to the CoM;

Developing a budget for the implementation of the general plan;

Suggesting project laws relating to construction and development and presenting them to the CoM;

Developing a general guidance framework for urban planning and presenting it to the CoM for approval.

Consultancy and Guidance

Giving opinion to the CoM on economic and financial relationships with other countries, foreign associations and organizations;

Getting in contact with foreign associations and organizations for the purpose of seeking economic, cultural, technical and social assistance;

Preparing and publishing statistical studies relating to economic and social activities and projects;

Conducting the necessary studies in the developmental and construction fields, or designating qualified parties to conduct them, and suggesting the enhancement of the Council's scientific capabilities;

Requesting ministries, public institutions, and municipalities to prepare projects in line with the Council's developmental and construction overall objectives;

Providing relevant information for ministries, public institutions, municipalities, and the private sector;

Giving suggestions on the creation, development and guidance of financial establishments and companies working on development issues.

Financial duties,

Securing financing for the implementation of the various projects or programs, the source of funds being the CoM or international donors.

Implementation and Monitoring tasks

Conducting feasibility studies for construction and developmental projects figuring in the general plan, or preparing programs required for the development of plans

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Executing the projects figuring in the general plan, consecutive plans and programs, in addition to any other construction/development project requested by the CoM. The CDR selects the appropriate public institution, municipality, or company for the execution of these projects, and the appropriate means (bidding, subcontracting, partnership,…).

The CDR is the exclusive party responsible for expropriation procedures, and issuing administrative authorizations and licenses, except in the case where the CoM issues them.

Monitoring of all projects figuring in the plans and programs, and those referred by the CoM, and submitting relevant reports to the CoM

Monitoring the proper allocation of economic and financial subsidies to their proper targets.

The CDR has developed a General Master plan, including a plan for CZM, organizing land use in Lebanon. This plan encompasses the construction of wastewater treatment plants in coastal cities, the rehabilitation of solid waste dumps, the construction of a coastal highway, among other components. This Master plan has not been approved by the CoM to date a fact that prevents its implementation.

2.2.9 Beirut and Mount Lebanon Water and Wastewater Establishment (BMLWWE)

BMLWWE was created by Law 221 (29/5/2000) which has restructured the water sector in Lebanon. Article 3 of Law 221, delineates the creation of five water establishments among which the Beirut-Mount Lebanon Water Establishment by merging the Beirut and Mount Lebanon Water Authorities.

Duties and competencies of the BMLWWE are described in Article 4 of Law 221. These are:

To carry out studies, implementation, operation, maintenance and renewing of projects for drinking and irrigation water distribution, (except for irrigation water in the South and South Beqaa that remains under the responsibility of the Litani River authority), within the frame of General Master-Plan according to a Ministry’s prior permit to use public water resources.

To propose tariffs for drinking and irrigation water services taking into consideration generalSocio-economic conditions of the Country.

To control the quality of the drinking and irrigation distributed water.

These Water Establishments is operating under its own regulations. It has to hire the services of an audit company concerning their financial status and is managed by a board of Directors constituted of a President and six members.

According to Article 6, the establishment is submitted to the “posteriori” control of the Account Court.

Its activities are assessed by a Performance Evaluation Committee composed of the (MoEW as president and 7 members: the General Director of the Ministry of Finances, the General Director of Exploitation in the MHER, the General Director of Hydraulic and Electric Equipment in the MHER, a

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hydraulic engineer, an economy graduate, a law graduate, and a second category functionary from the General Directorate of Exploitation as “rapporteur”.Law 377 issued on December 14th 2001 is an Amendment of Laws 221 and 241. In the Article 1, the new version of paragraphs 3 and 11 of Article 2 concerning Law 221 incorporates the responsibilities of the waste water within the competencies of MoEW. Article 2 gives the same amendment for Water Establishments duties by incorporating the handling of the waste water in the subparagraphs of Article 4 of Law 221.The Articles 3 replaces the name of the Ministry of Hydraulic and Electric Resources mentioned inthe Article 5 first paragraph of Law 221, by the corresponding terms; “Ministry of Energy and Water”.The Article 4 brings, in addition to the previous modification relative to the MHER, another new appellation:

General Director of Hydraulic and Electric Equipment is replaced by General Director of Hydraulic and Electric resources.

Public Water Establishments are replaced by Public Water and Waste Water Establishments PWWEs.

BMLWE is also experienced in handling expropriations for public works, but as its in-house legal services are limited, the practice is to hire an outside expert to handle all expropriations files and liaise with the authorities.

Below are some related decrees that govern the BMLWWE:

Decree 8122 (3/7/2002): organizes the implementation of the Law 221.

Decree 14596 (14/6/2002): sets the internal organization of the BMLWWE.

Decree 14597 (14/6/2005): sets the investment organization of the BMLWWE.

Decree 14637 (16/6/2005): sets the financial organization of the BMLWWE.

Decree 14877 (1/6/2005): sets the employment organization of the BMLWEE.

2.2.10Litani River Authority

The Litani River Authority was established in 1954 for the purpose of executing the Litani River project developed by the Government within its general framework for water planning in order to provide for irrigation, drainage, drinking water and electricity.

The Litani River Authority has been created by the Law issued on August 14th 1954. Its duties and competencies are, as per the previous law, as follows:

The execution of the Litani project for irrigation and drainage, for potable water and electricity production within the integrated Master Plan for Water in Lebanon and pursuant

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to the studies undertaken by the Lebanese Government assisted by the American Technical Commission.

The installation of a network for the electricity plants in Lebanon.

The erection of transformation stations, transmission and distribution lines in the whole Lebanese regions.

This Authority has the status of moral person and it operates within an administrative and financial autonomy.

Two days after the implementation of August 14th Law, the first Board of Directors was designated by the Decree 5997 issued on August 16th 1954. On year later, three new Laws were issued on December 30th 1955 concerning three main issues to consolidate the start up of LRA. The first one, was ratified the agreement signed on August 25th 1955 to guarantee the loan of the International Bank for Development and Reconstruction to the LRA. The second one, has given to LRA, the right to exploit all the parts of the Litani project as well from technical point of view as from financial aspects,

It constitutes an Amendment to the LRA creation Law. The third one has decided the advance of the Public Treasury to the LRA.

The Litani River Authority is governed by the same laws governing the other Autonomous Water Authorities, like Law 4517. This Authority is managed by a Board of Directors for three years. The chart organization of the LRA shows the main executives responsibilities constituted by a general Manager, four managers handling the administrative, technical, irrigation and hydroelectricity aspects. They are assisted by 16 departments and 42 bureaus.

2.2.11Municipalities

A municipality is the level of local government with legal status, financial and administrative independence, which exercises powers and responsibilities over the territory it is granted by law. The municipal machinery is made up of a decision-making power (invested in the elected municipal council) and an executive power (held by the President of the municipality or Mayor himself). The law grants municipal councils decision making powers and responsibilities relating to all activities of public interest within the municipal area based on a non-exhaustive list which sets out the relevant areas of public interest. According to Decree 118/1977, they are responsible for:

Determining municipal taxes or fees;

Developing TORs for services, works and supplies, or for selling municipal properties;

Accepting or rejecting funds and donations;

General programs of works, cleanliness, health affairs, water and lighting projects, etc.;

Planning, rectifying and enlarging roads, creating parks and public places;

Formulating designs for the town and the master plan in cooperation with the Directorate General of Urban Planning (DGUP);

Creating parks, courts, museums, hospitals, libraries, sewerage networks, and waste

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disposal options, etc.;

Organizing transportation and specifying prices; and

Approving permit applications for the exploitation of classified shops, restaurants, resorts, cafes, hotels, and all kinds of tourist and leisure facilities.

The Table 2-9 below refers to the list of municipalities influenced either directly or indirectly by the project

Table 2-9 List of Municipalities

MUNICIPALITY NAME AREAS COVERED BY THE MUNICIPALITY

Joun from Abu Abes river till Deir Mkhales

Sarouniye

Mazraat El Barghoutiye

Ouardaniye Ouardaniye

Sibline Sibline

Barja Barja

Ain EL Asad

Baasir Baasir

Haret Baasir

Debshe

Marj Barja

Debbiye Debbiye

Haliyouni

Aaqline

Dahr Aaqline

Mazraat Er Razaniye

Dahr El Mghara Dahr El Mghara

El Mechref Mechref

El Damour Damour

Saadiyat

El Naame Naameh

Haret El Naame

Dawhet el Hoss

Hadath Hadath

Hazmieh Hazmieh

Choueifet Choueifet

Khalde

Aamrousiye

Qobbe

Kfarshima Kfarshima




MUNICIPALITY NAME AREAS COVERED BY THE MUNICIPALITY

Bsaba Bsaba

Aaramoun Aaramoun

Wadi Chahrour Wadi Chahrour

Bsous Bsous

Bdedoun Bdedoun

Baabda Baabda

Fiyadiyeh

Louaize

Yarze

Chiah Chiah

Borj El Barajne Borj EL Barajne

Haret Hreik Haret Hreik




Table 2-10 Summary of institution’s main responsibilities

INSTITUTION

WATER RESOURCES

URB

AN

PLAN

NIN

G/

STAN

DAR

DS

AND

LEG

ISLA

TIO

N

ENFO

RCEM

ENT

MAR

INE

ENVI

RON

MEN

T

PRO

TECT

ION

OF

NAT

URA

L RE

SOU

RCES

WAS

TEW

ATER

D

ISCH

ARG

E

SOLI

D W

ASTE

M

ANAG

EMEN

T

ISSU

ING

PER

MIT

S

INFR

ASTR

UCT

URE

QU

ALIT

Y &

SA

NIT

ATIO

N

DIS

TRIB

UTI

ON

&

SUPP

LYCouncil for Development and

Reconstruction

Beirut and Mount Lebanon

Water and Wastewater

Establishment

Ministry of Energy and Water

Ministry of Environment

Ministry of Public Works and

Transport

Ministry of Public Health

Municipalities

2.3LEBANESE ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATIONS AND STANDARDS

2.3.1 Overview of the Legal Framework in Lebanon

The Lebanese Constitution represents the strongest legislative text in Lebanon and when in contradiction with the Constitution, a proposed legislation(s) cannot be issued. International treaties/agreements ratified by Lebanon have the second priority in the Lebanese legislative framework. Table 2-11 describes the legal structure in Lebanon

Table 2-11 Legal Pyramid

TYPE OF LEGISLATION DESCRIPTION

Laws Laws are passed by the Lebanese Parliament. The Council of Ministers or deputies

propose a project of law that is discussed by the appropriate parliamentary

committees prior to being promulgated in a plenary parliamentary session.

Environmental legislations are generally reviewed and assessed by the

Parliamentary committees dealing with Agriculture, Tourism, Environment, and

Municipalities as well as Public Works, Transportation, Electric and Hydraulic




TYPE OF LEGISLATION DESCRIPTION

Resources and Planning and Development.

Decree Laws

In exceptional cases (like absence of the Parliament or non respect of

constitutional delays), the President of the Republic can pass these decree laws

which have the same legal standing and powers as laws.

Decrees

The Council of Ministers issues decrees that are usually proposed by a certain

ministry. The Council of State is consulted before the issuance of a decree to

ensure that the latter does not contravene existing laws..

Resolutions/DecisionsMinisters issue resolutions without the pre-approval of the Council of Ministers but

after consulting the Council of State to ensure the integrity with existing laws.

2.3.2 Synopsis of the Legislative Framework for Environmental Protection

. To date, the current Lebanese environmental regulations are generally scarce with some dating back several decades. Table 2-12 presents an overview of the main environmental legislations found in Lebanon dealing with the management of water resources, solid waste and wastewater as well as air quality and pollution control; these legislations are listed in reverse chronological order.

Table 2-12 Summary of Legislations

YEAR LAW / DECREE RELEVANT PROVISIONS

2002 Decision 5/1 Review of “Initial Environmental Examination" report

2002 Decision 6/1Review of Scoping report and Environmental Impact Assessment

report

2002 Law 444 Environment Protection Law

2002 Law 432Accession to the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic

Pollutants.

2002 Decree 8018

Sets procedures and guidelines for the establishment and operation

of industrial institutions/facilities. It provides for example the

distance requirements from water resources which vary according

to industry classification (Class I, II, III, VI, and V).

2001 Decision 5/1Environmental Guidelines for the Establishment and/or Operation of

Stations Distributing Liquid Petroleum Products.

2001 Law 341Reducing air pollution resulting from the transportation sector and

encouraging the use of a ‘greener’ less polluting fuel.

2001 Law 377

Changed the Ministry of Hydraulic and Electric Resources (MHER)

into the Ministry of Energy and Water (MoEW) and named the

regional water authorities as Water and Wastewater Establishments

located in Beirut, Bekaa, North Lebanon and South Lebanon.

2000 Draft EIA Decree This Draft EIA decree is under the Framework of Environmental Law.




YEAR LAW / DECREE RELEVANT PROVISIONS

It stipulates the EIA procedures and regulations related to all

development projects that have a potential impact on the

environment.

2000 Law 241 Reducing the number of Water Establishments to 4.

2000 Law 221

This Law organizes the Water Sector by regrouping 22 Water Offices

and 216 Committees in 5 regional Water Authorities. Article 1 of

this Law states that the protection and development of water as a

natural resource, within the framework of environmental and

ecosystem protection, is a crucial public service.

1997 Law 623Implementing penalties for vandalism and theft acts onwater,

telephone and electricity infrastructures.

1997 Decision 71/1 Management of Waste Imports.

1996 Decision 52/1Specifying the National Standards for Environmental Quality and the

Environmental Limit Values for Air and Water.

1996 Decision 40/1 Amendment of decision 22/1

1995 Decision 22/1 Enforcement of Environmental Standards for Industries.

1994 Law 387Accession to the Basel Convention concerning the control of the

trans-boundary movement of hazardous waste and their disposal.

1991 Law 58Expropriation law which was modified later on by the Law enacted

on 12/08/2006

1988 Law 64/88Protection against hazardous wastes that could harm air, water,

biodiversity, soil, and people.

1972 Decision 67 Methodology for bacteriological analysis of water.

1966 Law 68/66 Protection against oil spill discharge from ships into the sea.

1933 Decree 2761 Guidelines related to Wastewater Management and Disposal

1932 Decree law 16 L

It mandates the establishment of buffer zones for the protection of

all surface and groundwater resources from any type of

activity/potential source of pollution. Requirements for buffering are

found in Decision 320/26.

2.3.3 EIA Draft Decree and Project Relevance to Environmental Protection Law

The Project is governed by Lebanon’s main Environmental Framework Law (Law 444/2002 on Environmental Protection). The Project aims at supplying Greater Beirut with 250m3/d of water in order to compensate the existing deficit and secure sustainable source of water for at least the five coming years. Law 444 lists the different environmental receptors and resources as follows:

- Physical Environment (Ambient Air Quality & Noise);

- Soil Quality;




- Coastal Environment;

- Marine Biodiversity (fauna & flora); and

- Public Community (Project affected communities)

A draft EIA decree was issued in 2000 which abides by specifications and standard criteria for environmental standards and requirements and sets principles and measures necessary to assess the environmental impact of development projects (refer to Environmental Protection Law No. 444/ 2002). The draft EIA decree comprises sixty-eight articles that address the objectives of the regulation, definitions, as well as various stages of the national EIA l process such as screening, scoping, implementation, and review of the EIA report, in addition to the period of validity, and the appeal process. The EIA draft decree also lists all the activities for which EIA or permit conditions are mandatory, and those that require an Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) (refer to Appendices 1, 2 and 3 of draft EIA decree). Being of water nature, related to supply of potable water through construction of tunnels, a treatment plant and water reservoirs, the project hence requires an EIA study.

The EIA process is illustrated in a schematic diagram in Appendix 9 of the Draft EIA Decree.

2.3.4 Relevant National Environmental Standards

There are two main legislative texts that set the environmental standards for Lebanon as shown in Table 2-13 below.

Table 2-13 Main environmental standards in Lebanon

RELEVANT STANDARDS

Ministerial Decision No.

8/1, MoE30/1/2001

Updates/replaces Decision 52/1 by developing National

Standards for Environmental Quality (NSEQ) related to air

pollutants and liquid waste emitted from classified

establishment and wastewater treatment plants

Ministerial Decision No.

52/1, MoE29/7/1996 Environmental Quality Standards & Criteria for Air, Water and

Soil

These decisions have assigned the particulate inorganic pollutants, gaseous inorganic pollutants and cancer causing pollutants into groups; as presented in Table 2-14 below.

Table 2-14 Pollutants Classification

PARTICULATE INORGANIC POLLUTANTS

Group I Group II Group III Group IV

Cd, Hg, TI As, Co, Ni, Se, TeSb, Pb, Cr, CN, F, Cu, Mn,

Pt, Pd, Rh, V, Sn-

GASEOUS INORGANIC POLLUTANTS





AsH3, ClCN, COCl2, HP HBr, Cl2, HCN, HF, H2SHCl not mentioned at

Group ISOX, NOX

CANCER CAUSING POLLUTANTS


Asbestos,

Benzo(a)pyren,

Beryllium and its

breathable compounds

calculated as Be,

Dibenz(a,h) anthracen,

2-Napthylamin

Arsenic Oxides, several

Chrome (VI) and Chrome

(III). Combinations

calculated as Cr, Cobalt,

Nickel and its breathable

compounds calculated

as Co/ Ni, 3,3’-

Dichlorbenzeden,

Dimethylsulphate

Ethylenimin

Acrylnitril, Benzene, 1,3-

Butadien, 1-Chlor-2,3-

epoxypropan

(Epychlorhydrin), 1,2-

Dibromethane, 1,2-

Epoxypropane,

Ethyleneoxide,

Hydrazine, Vynilchloride

-

These decisions have also set the specifications and standards for various pollutants as described below:

Ambient Air Quality Standards Table 2-15 below presents the maximum allowable limits for air emissions as set in Decision 8/1.

Table 2-15 Emission Limits

PARAMETER EMISSION LIMIT VALUE REMARK

Dust 200 mg/m3 (for new facilities)

500 mg/m3 (for existing facilities)

Not containing hazardous

compounds

Particulate Inorganic Pollutants

Group I 1 mg/m3 Mass flow > 5g/h

Group II 10 mg/m3 Mass flow > 25g/h

Group III 30 mg/m3 Mass flow > 50g/h

Gaseous Inorganic Pollutants

Group I 1 Mass flow > 50g/h

Group II 5 Mass flow > 300g/h

Group III 30 Mass flow > 1,000g/h

Group IV 500 Mass flow > 10,000g/h

Gaseous Organic Pollutants

Group I 20 Mass flow > 500g/h

Group II 100 Mass flow > 4,000g/h

Group III 200 Mass flow > 6,000g/h

Cancer Causing Pollutants

Group I 0.2 Mass flow > 5g/h

Group II 2 Mass flow > 10g/h




PARAMETER EMISSION LIMIT VALUE REMARK

Group III 10 Mass flow > 50g/h

Water pollutants:

Standards of pollutants being discharged into water bodies were set in Decision 52/1 and updated in Decision 8/1, as described in Table 2-16.

Table 2-16 Water pollutants

SUBSTANCELIMITS FOR WATERBODIES

SEWERAGE SYSTEM SURFACE WATER SEA

Color none none none

pH 6-9 6-9 6-9

Temperature 35ºC 30 ºC 35ºC

BOD (5 day, 20ºC) 125 mg/l 25 mg/l 25 mg/l

COD (dichromate) 500 mg/l 125 mg/l 125 mg/l

Total Phosphorus 10 mg/l 10 mg/l 10 mg/l

Total Nitrogen1 60 mg/l 30 mg/l 30 mg/l

Suspended solids 600 mg/l 60 mg/l 60 mg/l

AOX 5 5 5

Detergents - 3 mg/l 3 mg/l

Coliform Bacteria 370 C in

100 ml2- 2,000 2,000

Salmoellae Absence Absence Absence

Hydrocarbons 20 mg/l 20 mg/l 20 mg/l

Phenol Index 5 mg/l 0.3 mg/l 0.3 mg/l

Oil and grease 50 mg/l 30 mg/l 30 mg/l

Total Organic Carbon (TOC) 750 mg/l 75 mg/l 75 mg/l

Ammonia (NH4+) - 10 mg/l 10 mg/l

Silver (Ag) 0.1 mg/l 0.1mg/l 0.1 mg/l

Aluminium (Al ) 10 mg/l 10 mg/l 10 mg/l

Arsenic (As) 0.1 mg/l 0.1 mg/l 0.1 mg/l

Barium (Ba) 2 mg/l 2 mg/l 2 mg/l

Cadmium (Cd) 0.2 mg/l 0.2 mg/l 0.2 mg/l

Cobalt (Co) 1 mg/l 0.5 mg/l 0.5 mg/l

Chromium total (Cr) 2 mg/l 2 mg/l 2 mg/l

1 Sum of Kjeldahl-N(organic N + NH3),NO3-N, NO2-N2




SUBSTANCELIMITS FOR WATERBODIES

SEWERAGE SYSTEM SURFACE WATER SEA

Hexavalent Chromium (Cr VI+)

0.2 mg/l 0.2 mg/l 0.2 mg/l

Copper total (Cu) 1 mg/l 0.5 mg/l 1.5 mg/l

Iron total (Fe) 5 mg/l 5 mg/l 5 mg/l

Mercury total (Hg) 0.05 mg/l 0.05 mg/l 0.05 mg/l

Manganese (Mn) 1 mg/l 1 mg/l 1 mg/l

Nickel total (Ni) 2 mg/l 0.5 mg/l 0.5 mg/l

Lead total (Pb) 1 mg/l 0.5 mg/l 0.5 mg/l

Antimony (Sb) 0.3mg/l 0.3mg/l 0.3mg/l

Tin total (Sn) 2 mg/l 2 mg/l 2 mg/l

Zinc total (Zn) 10 mg/l 5 mg/l 5 mg/l

Active (Cl2) - 1 mg/l 1 mg/l

Cyanides (CN- ) 1 mg/l 0.1mg/l 0.1mg/l

Fluorides (F) 15 mg/l 25 mg/l 25 mg/l

Nitrate (NO3-) - 90 mg/l 90 mg/l

Phosphate (PO43-) - 5 mg/l 5 mg/l

Sulphate (SO42-) 1,000 mg/l 1,000 mg/l 1,000 mg/l

Sulphide (S2-) 1 mg/l 1 mg/l 1 mg/l

Noise Levels

Table 2-17 and Table 2-18 present respectively the noise levels and the occupational Noise Exposure standards allowed for and set in Decision 52/1.

Table 2-17 Maximum Allowable Noise Levels

REGION TYPE

LIMIT FOR NOISE LEVEL DB(A)DAY TIME(7 A.M.- 6 P.M.)

EVENING TIME(6 P.M.- 10 P.M.)

NIGHT TIME(10 P.M.- 7A.M.)

Residential areas having some construction

sites or commercial activities or that are

located near a road

50-60 45-55 40-50

Urban residential areas 45-55 40-50 35-45

Industrial areas 60-70 55-65 50-60

Rural residential areas 35 – 45 30 – 40 25 – 35

Table 2-18 Permissible Noise Exposure Standards

DURATION PER DAY (HRS) SOUND LEVEL DB(A)

8 85




4 88

2 91

1 94

½ 97

¼ 100

2.3.5 Expropriation Law and Procedures

The Lebanese constitution guards and protects the right of private property including landed property and the rights attaching to it. The law stipulates that no citizen can be deprived of the enjoyment and use of private property except when the property is being expropriated by a Ministerial decree.The exercise of eminent domain for expropriating private property for public interest is governed by Law No. 58 dated 29/05/1991 which was modified by the Law enacted on 12/08/2006This law is extensive and governs many cases. The state may only expropriate these rights when the purpose for which expropriation is taking place is legally deemed to be in the public interest; furthermore this must be made against payment of a prior and equitable compensation (indemnité

equitable). All compensation is by monetary award through independent judicial assessment. Where there is an appeal, at least half the compensation is paid in advance, but the process of expropriation cannot be halted unless the validity of the public interest decree itself is challenged. The procedure for expropriation is described in the sections which follow, and illustrated diagrammatically in Figure 2-1

In the case of Awali-Beirut Water Conveyor Project, expropriation follows normal Lebanese practice. Under the provision for expropriation of land in the public interest, The Council for Development and Reconstruction prepares a draft expropriation decree or alignment decree for signature – after the approval of the Council of Ministers - by the Minister of Transportation, the Prime Minister and the President. Annexed to the decree are the following documents:

A sketch of the entire proposed project A detailed plan of the land that will be expropriated

A list showing the registration number of each property, its location, the property limits and the names of all the owners and right holders according to the Land Registry.

A detailed list of the content of the land to be expropriated including plans of buildings constructed before the date of publication of the decree in the Official Gazette.

After publication of the decree, these documents are available for consultation by the interested parties who can even obtain copies of them by the concerned Governmental bodies.With the publication of a decree, the affected properties are under servitude. They may be bought and sold, and buildings may be maintained, but no improvements may be made until the expropriation process has been completed. Properties are not held to have been expropriated until




the decision of the expropriation commission is handed down, which decision is communicated to the Lands registry and entered on the property titles and the cadastral map.On the basis of a plan, an expropriation decree may cover any portion of land or a building. It is up to the owner to request that the full property (land or building) be expropriated, on the grounds that the non-expropriated remainder of the land would have lost its value. This may be done, for example, when the expropriation of part of a building renders the remainder unusable; or when the expropriation of a lot leaves a remainder too small to qualify for a building permit, and the owner does not have an adjacent plot to which it can be joined.




Figure 2-1 Expropriation Procedures




2.4INTERNATIONAL AGREEMENTS AND TREATIES

Table 2-19 summarizes all relevant international conventions and agreements that are signed or ratified by Lebanon. They include provisions relevant to the proposed project operations and waste management practices.

Table 2-19 Ratified or Signed International Agreements

AGREEMENT OBJECTIVE RELEVANCE TO PROJECT

Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and their Disposal-1989Ratified by Lebanon in 1994

To control the transportation of dangerous non-radiant materials and their disposal across the border

Regulates the transfer of potentially hazardous wastes across national boundariesMedical and industrial waste Hazardous Demolition waste

Convention to Combat Desertification - 1994Ratified by Lebanon in 1994

To combat desertification Control land clearance and project footprint size

Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer – 1985Montreal protocol on ozone-depleting substances - 1987 Ratified by Lebanon in 1993

To protect human health and the environment from any activity that modifies the ozone layerAdopt measures to control human activities found to have adverse impact on the ozone layer

Regulates the use of ODS (ozone depleting substances) Reconstruction activities

International Labour Convention No. 139, 120 and 136Lebanon has ratified 50 International Labor Conventions (48 actually in force)

To prevent vocational risks ensuing from cancer causing materials and tools Deals with sanitation in offices To protect workers against the risks of intoxication ensuing from benzene

Protects workers health and ensures proper sanitation and hygiene for base camps, work environment and officesReconstruction activities

Barcelona Convention:Protocol for the Protection of the Mediterranean Sea against Pollution from Land-based Sources-1980Signature in 1980 and accession in 1994

To ensure protection of the Mediterranean Sea and aquatic species from effluent discharges (solid/liquid waste)

To protect the coastal area from landfills and uncontrolled dumping practices in the Study Area resulting in leachate generation and run-off which pose a threat to the existing water resources.Disposal of wastewater in the Mediterranean sea

Protocol Concerning Co-operation in Combating Pollution of the Mediterranean Sea by Oil and Other Harmful Substances in Cases of Emergency-1976Ratified by Lebanon in 1977

Convention for the Protection of the Mediterranean Sea against Pollution-1976Ratified by Lebanon in 1977

Convention on the Prevention of Marine Pollution by Dumping of Wastes and Other Matter-1972Signed by Lebanon in 1973


FINAL REPORT COUNCIL FOR DEVELOPMENT AND RECONSTRUCTION (CDR)ESIA FOR AWALI-BEIRUT WATER CONVEYER PROJECT LEGAL AND INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK

2.4.1 Relevant International Guidelines and Standards

Table 2-20 below summarizes some of the WB/IFC safeguard policies that are applicable to the project.

Table 2-20 WB/IFC safeguard policies that are applicable to the project OPERATIONAL POLICY / DIRECTIVE KEY FEATURES APPROVAL

DATE

OP/BP 4.01 Environmental Assessment

Trigger: Any project with potential environmental and social impacts • Potential environmental consequences of project identified early in project cycle – projects categorized as A (significant impacts); B (limited impacts); C (no impacts); FI (Financial Intermediary) • Environmental Assessments (EAs) and mitigation plans are required for projects with significant environmental impacts or involuntary resettlement • EAs should include analysis of alternative designs and sites or consideration of “no option” • Requires public consultation with and information disclosure to affected communities and NGOs before World Bank Board approval; at least two public consultations with affected communities are required for category A projects

Required document: Environmental Assessment(EA) for category A and B projects

January 1999

OP 4.04 Natural Habitats

Trigger: Potential to cause significant loss or degradation of natural habitat • Prohibits financing of projects involving “significant conversion of natural habitats unless there are no feasible alternatives • Requires environmental cost/benefit analysis • Requires EA with mitigation measures

Required document: issues and mitigation measures included in EA

June 2001

OP 4.36 Forestry

Trigger: projects that impact the health and quality of forests; projects that affect the rights and welfare of people dependent upon forests; projects that change the management and use of forests • Discourages financing of projects that significantly convert natural habitats and critical forest areas unless there are no feasible alternatives • Projects cannot contravene international environmental agreements and conventions • For industrial-scale commercial harvesting, the harvesters must be certified by a third party as meeting standards of responsible forest management or agree to a time-bound phased action plan that can meet such standards • Local people must be involved in developing standards for certification • Prohibits financing for commercial logging operations or acquisition of equipment for use in primary moist tropical forests

Required documents: forestry issues included in EA, time-bound action plans included in Project Appraisal Document (PAD)

November 2002


FINAL REPORT COUNCIL FOR DEVELOPMENT AND RECONSTRUCTION (CDR)ESIA FOR AWALI-BEIRUT WATER CONVEYER PROJECT LEGAL AND INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK

OPERATIONAL POLICY / DIRECTIVE KEY FEATURES APPROVAL

DATE

OP 4.12Involuntary Resettlement

Trigger: Involuntary land acquisition resulting in relocation or loss of shelter, loss of assets, or loss of livelihood; restrictions on access to parks or protected areas that result in adverse impacts on people

Compensates people for lost land and lost livelihoods

Requires public participation in resettlement planning

Requires disclosure of resettlement plan in a form and language accessible to affected people

Intended to restore or improve income-earning capacity of displaced people

Required documents: Resettlement Plan

December 2001



ESIA FOR AWALI-BEIRUT WATER CONVEYER PROJECTPROJECT DESCRIPTION

3. PROJECT DESCRIPTION3.1PROJECT COMPONENTS

The Project is divided into two main components:I. The Awali-Beirut Water Conveyor II. Improvement and rehabilitation of the water distribution network in Beirut and its

suburbsThe first component includes conveying of water from Joun to Khalde via an underground tunnel where it would be then piped through conventional means (piping through road service corridors) to two storage reservoirs in Hadath and then to a third reservoir in Hazmieh. The Awali-Beirut Water Conveyor sub-components are summarized in Table 3-21 and their geographical locations are illustrated in Figure 3-2.

PREPARED BY ELARD 1

FINAL REPORT COUNCIL FOR DEVELOPMENT AND RECONSTRUCTION (CDR)ESIA FOR AWALI-BEIRUT WATER CONVEYER PROJECT PROJECT DESCRIPTION

Table 3-21. The Awali-Beirut Water Conveyor Sub-Components

SUB-COMPONENT DESCRIPTION TOPOGRAPHIC MAP

(APPENDIX A)

LOCATION

DRAWING

(APPENDIX B)

SATELLITE

IMAGES &

SITE PHOTOGRAPHS

(APPENDIX C)

Joun Regulation Structure Set into the hillside by the existing adit access from the

Joun tunnel to the hydro-electric power plant.

FigureA1 Figure B1 Figure C1

Joun to Ouardaniye

Tunnel

Running underground throughout its length of 4.1 Km with

2,800 mm internal diameter.

FigureA1 N/A N/A

Wadi Abou Yabes washout Washout structure in reinforced concrete discharging 900

mm diameter pipe from Joun-Ouardaniye tunnel to Wadi

Abou Yabes including new access road. Option for future

local supply of raw water


Ouardaniye Water

Treatment Works

Ouardaniye WTW with inlet and outlet portal with

improved access road. Option for future local supply of

treated water. 600 mm diameter emergency discharge.

600mm diameter storm water outfall


Ouardaniye to Khalde

tunnel

Running underground throughout its length of 19.7 km.

2,800 mm internal diameter.

FigureA1

Figure A2

Figure A3

N/A N/A

Nahr Damour Inverted

Siphon

River crossing by inverted siphon in 2,800 mm internal

diameter tunnel. Horizontal length 1140 m; north and

south vertical shafts of 116m and 136 m respectively.

Washout structure in reinforced concrete discharging

700mm diameter pipe into Nahr Damour (with

Figure A2 Figure B4 Figure C4

Figure C5

Figure C6

PREPARED BY ELARD 2



(APPENDIX A)

LOCATION

DRAWING

(APPENDIX B)

SATELLITE

IMAGES &

SITE PHOTOGRAPHS

(APPENDIX C)

dechlorination facility for use during washout operation).

Option for future local supply of treated water.

Khalde surge shaft 2,800 mm diameter shaft in reinforced concrete with

surface venting structure 7 m diameter in reinforced

concrete, including improved access road.


Khalde Outlet portal Ouardaniye-Khalde tunnel termination structure in

reinforced concrete and upgraded access road.

FigureA3 N/A N/A

Khalde Flow

measurement and

sampling chamber

Chamber (15m x9m x 6m deep), reinforced concreted,

contains isolating/regulating valves, flow meter and has

small surface kiosk.

FigureA3 N/A Figure C8

Pipeline form Khalde

portal to Khalde

distribution chamber

1.9km long, twin 1,400mm diameter pipelines in ductile

iron. Immediately downstream of the flow measurement

and sampling chamber will be velocity limiting valves

which will close in the event of failure of the downstream

pipelines.

FigureA3 N/A N/A

Khalde distribution

chamber

Distribution chamber (22m, 9m, 4.5m deep) in reinforced

concrete, contains isolating and regulating valves and has

small surface kiosk. Option for future additional local

supply of treated water. Washout to local stream.


Pipeline from Khalde

distribution chamber to

Hadath 90 and 125

7.5km long, 700 mm diameter pipeline in ductile iron (air

valves and washouts to local streams). Connections to 90

and 125 reservoirs and for future local supply of 300mm

FigureA3

Figure A4

N/A N/A

PREPARED BY ELARD 3



(APPENDIX A)

LOCATION

DRAWING

(APPENDIX B)

SATELLITE

IMAGES &

SITE PHOTOGRAPHS

(APPENDIX C)

reservoirs and 500mm diameter pipelines for Kfarshima and Quobe

respectively

Hadath 125 reservoir Storage reservoir at elevation of 125 m, two

compartments, effective volume 30,000 m3 in reinforced

concrete with isolating valves and small surface kiosk,

including access road. Connection to local distribution

system.


Hadath 90 reservoir Storage reservoir at elevation of 90m, two compartments,

effective volume 50,000 m3 in reinforced concrete with

isolating valves and small surface kiosk, including access

road. Connection to local distribution system.


Pipeline from Hadath

reservoirs to Hazmieh

reservoir

2.7 km long twin 1,300 diameter pipelines in ductile iron,

with option for further extension for supply of treated

water to Beirut.

Figure A4 N/A N/A

Hazmieh 90 reservoir Storage reservoir at elevation of 90m, two compartments,

effective volume 20,000 m3 in reinforced concrete with

isolating valves and small surface kiosk, including access

road. Connection to local distribution system.


PREPARED BY ELARD 4



Figure 3-2 Geographic location of project components

PREPARED BY ELARD 5



Component 2 will comprise the following: The construction of 16 reservoirs (between 500 m3 and 1000 m3 storage capacity each)

and associated pumping stations distributed across the various distribution zones in the project area;

The replacement and/or installation of approximately 187 km of distribution network across the project area in Ein El Delbi, Southern Beirut and parts of the Metn area;

Installation of 200,000 household meters in portions of the project area to be selected by the GBMLWWE and to operate on a volumetric tariff basis;

Installation of bulk meters at the reservoirs and distribution chambers; Table 3-22 and Table 3-23 show characteristics of the above mentioned reservoirs and

pumping stations along with areas they serve. This information is to be confirmed in final stages of the design of the second component.

Table 3-22. Description of Reservoirs

SERVED ZONE RESERVOIR NAMECAPACITY

(M3)

ELEVATION

(M)

Naame - Dmaour

Damour 500 125

Naame Nord Bas 500 100

Naame Nord Haut 500 200

Khalde - Aaramoun

Aaramoun Sud Bas 500 100

Aaramoun Sud Haut 500 220

Khalde Bas 500 120

Khalde Haut 500 250

Choueifet

Qobbe Bas 500 100

Qobbe Haut 500 220

Oumara 500 260

Choueifet Bas 1000 125

Kfarshima

Kfarshima Bas 1000 80

Kfarshima Haut 1000 200

Bsaba 500 340

Hadath HautHazmieh Hadath 2000 190

Hazmieh

Baabda Bas Baabda 2000 290

Fiyadiyeh Bas

PREPARED BY ELARD 6



Table 3-23. Description of Pumping Stations

NAME Q(M3/D) Q(M3/H) HMT(M) POWER (HP) POWER (KW)

Naame Nord Bas 1500 63 110 39 29

Aaramoun Sud Bas 1500 63 130 46 34

Khalde Bas 1500 63 140 49 37

Qobbe Bas 1500 63 140 49 37

Choueifet Bas 4000 167 160 148 111

Kfarshima Bas 4000 167 140 130 97

Kfarshima Haut 1000 42 150 35 26

Hazmieh 24000 1000 65 361 271

Hazmieh Hadath 7000 292 110 178 134

A map illustrating the various Distribution zones and Reservoir locations is attached to Appendix M.

3.2CONSTRUCTION ASPECTS

The construction methodology is based on that of the feasibility study. Expected periods of construction and the nature and quantities of excavated material to be produced are provided in Table 3-23 for each sub-component. Technical precautionary measures will be taken for all structures to meet seismic construction specifications. Construction phase is expected to be completed within three years.

3.2.1 Tunnels

The expected rock type to be encountered while drilling the tunnel is strong, permeable limestone. This rock type should be self-supporting after the tunneling works. The groundwater table lies well below the tunnel level and is not expected to cause any significant problem during construction. At valley crossings, such as the Nahr Damour crossing whereby alluvial deposits will be encountered the tunnel construction will be lined and impermeable.The tunneling will be carried out mainly using a tunnel boring machine (TBM). New or improved access roads will be required for the equipment to reach the tunnel portals. The TBM will be deployed at the following sections:

- From Ourdaniye WTW to Joun regulation structure- From Ourdaniye WTW to Nahr Damour; and

PREPARED BY ELARD 7



- From Khalde to Nahr DamourThe “cut and cover” excavation method will be used at the Nahr Damour inverted siphon rather than the TBM. A substantial cofferdam is likely to be required to cross the river. Environmental implications of the cofferdam will have to be examined and addressed once the final design is completed.The vertical shaft of the inverted siphon will be formed by “raise boring”. A hole will be drilled from the surface and raise boring machine assembled in the bottom of the low level tunnel. This will be gradually raised to the upper level tunnel. Spoil will be discharged at a low level, i.e. at the base of Nahr Damour Valley. The tunnels will be formed with in-situ reinforced concrete lining with an external impermeable membrane to reduce leakage and, in some cases, the addition of a steel liner. A schematic hydraulic profile and cross-sections along the tunnel are given in Figure 3-3, Figure 3-4 and Figure 3-5, respectively.

PREPARED BY ELARD 8


Figure 3-3 Hydraulic Profile

PREPARED BY ELARD 9


Table 3-24 Estimated Spoil GenerationSOURCE

SPOIL MATERIALQUANTIT

YPROPOSED PERIOD OF

GENERATION RATE OF GENERATIONMETHOD OF EXCAVATION DESCRIPTION OF SPOIL FROM

MONTH

TO MONTH

TOTAL MONTHS

IN AVERAGE MONTH

IN MAXIMUM

MONTHtonnes no. no. no. t/month m3/month

Joun Regulation Structure Drill and Blast

Limestone and dolomite rock

6501 4 4 160 -

Ouardaniye Inlet Portal-Tunneling Tunnel Boring Machine


169,0001 17.5 17.5 9,600 **

Drill and BlastLimestone and dolomite rock

4801 1 1 180 -

Ouardaniye WTW Open CutLimestone and dolomite rock

557,5001 12 12 - -

Fill Suitable tunnel spoil(326,000

) 15 27 12 - -Ouardaniye Outlet Portal-Tunneling Tunnel Boring Machine


241,5001 25 25 9600 **


4801 1 1 180 -

Nahr Damour Excavation of River Crossing- Cut and Cover

Alluvium 1,410 1 18 12* 120 -

Drill and Blast Alluvium and Limestone and dolomite rock

33,500 19 41.5 22.5* 1,500 -

Khalde Outlet Portal Tunnel Boring Machine


189,000 1 19 19 9,900 **


480 1 1 1 180 -

Pipeline - Khalde Outlet Portal to hadath Reservoirs

Surface excavation, drill and blast ***

Limestone and residual clays

325,000 to be defined - -

Hadath 90 Reservoir Surface excavation, drill and blast ***



Hadath 125 Reservoir Surface excavation, drill and blast ***



Pipeline - Hadath Reservoirs to Hazmieh 90 Reservoir




Hazmieh 90 Reservoir Surface excavation, drill and blast ***



Pipeline - Khalde to Tellet el Khayat Reservoir




TOTAL 1,609,80



0* working only October to April ** to be identified from contractor's methodology*** all excavated material will be removed from site due to limited working area



Figure 3-4 Cross-Section Joun-Ouardaniye Tunnel



Figure 3-5 Cross-Section Ouardaniye-Khalde Tunnel



3.2.2 Ouardaniye WTW

The proposed site of the Ouardaniye WTW is characterized by moderate slopes and easy access. However, access roads will require some improvements before start of construction. The site will be excavated up to 12m deep in rock by means of drilling and blasting. A suitable site will be required for disposal of the excavated material from the WTW and the tunnels. Some could be crushed and used as backfill material on site of the Ouardaniye WTW.The buildings and structures associated with the WTW will be designed in a manner which reflects the nature and exposure of the site and its location and takes into account local aesthetics and building practices. Since the process structures will all be in reinforced concrete, this material will also be used for the associated building to provide low maintenance, functional facilities.The WTW site will be landscaped in a manner appropriate to the fairly harsh environment, with low maintenance planting. The perimeter of the WTW will be marked with a suitable security fence, with entry controlled at a gatehouse built into fencing. Site lighting will be provided by high pressure sodium floodlights over process units, working areas and roads. Perimeter and security lighting will be provided in accordance with the prevailing local practice of major WTW.Chemical and storage fuel tanks will be bonded, and suitable precautions adopted for chemical (especially chlorine gas) storage. An emergency overflow (600mm diameter) will carry overflow water from the treatment units along the upgraded access road, discharging into a local stream course below the new coastal highway, and then ultimately into the sea or into groundwater. Storm water from the treatment works site will discharge through a 600mm diameter pipe to the north into Wade Baraz and likewise into the sea or into groundwater.

3.2.3 Pipelines

Excavation for the twin ductile iron pipelines from Khalde Tunnel Portal to the Khalde Flow Distribution chamber and then on to the Hadath and Hazmieh Reservoirs will be up to 10m wide and 2.5m – 3.0m deep. However, at road, river, and culvert crossings, deeper excavations may be required, especially at the Ghadir River crossing. Heavy rippers and rock breakers might be used in areas with strong limestone to reach formation level. Blasting will be required for excavation through the hill side below the Hadath reservoir.Excavation in alluvial and raised beach deposits should not present any significant problems but the stability of the resulting excavation will depend on the precise groundwater level. Construction of the twin 1400mm diameter ductile iron pipelines from Khalde to Hadath Reservoir partly along Chouwaifat road will be through a heavily built up area with significant, but substantially unrecorded underground services. The same applies to the twin 1300mm diameter ductile iron pipes from Hadath to Hazmieh Reservoir.

3.2.4 Distribution Chamber and Reservoirs

The Joun Regulation Structure will be constructed in an area of strong limestone rock requiring drilling and blasting below the layer of alluvial deposits as well as the Wadi Abou Yabes washout.



At the Khalde Distribution Chamber the rock is not expected to be found close to the surface and the majority of the excavated material is likely to be sand fill with rock fragments. Some drilling and blasting may be needed at formation level. A 450mm diameter emergency washout pipeline will discharge from the chamber to an adjacent dry stream bed.Blasting will be required at the sites of the proposed Hadath and Hazmieh Reservoirs.

3.2.5 Working Areas

Temporary contractors’ working areas will be required for each of the main project components. These will have workshops, concrete batching plants, spoil handling facilities, etc., where appropriate. These areas are expected to be within the expropriated land for construction of the component. However, some additional working areas may be required. The extent of these will have to be defined at a later stage after receiving the proposal of the Contractor.

3.2.6 Access Roads

New roads are required to be constructed and some existing road to be improved to allow suitable access for the construction traffic and in some cases operational vehicles, to a number of the project components. Table 3-25 summarizes the required access roads.

Table 3-25 Description of New Access Roads

ACCESS ROAD STATUS LENGTH WIDTH

Joun Regulation Structure Temporary About 1.6 km 8 m

Wadi Abou Yabes Washout Permanent About 2.5 km 8 m

Ouardaniye WTW Permanent About 2 km 10 m

Nahr Damour – South tunnel adit Temporary About 3.5 km 8 m

Nahr Damour – North tunnel adit Temporary To be defined To be defined

Nahr Damour – South ventilation shaft Temporary To be defined To be defined

Nahr Damour – North ventilation shaft Temporary To be defined To be defined

Khalde Portal Temporary About 0.7 km 8 m

Hadath 125 Reservoir Permanent 0.1 km 10 m

Hadath 90 Reservoir Permanent 0.01 km 10 m

Hazmieh 90 Reservoir Permanent 0.01 km 10 m

3.3OPERATIONAL ASPECTS

3.3.1 Sources of Water

Table 3.6 shows the sources of supply of the proposed project and indicates the range of flows coming from each throughout the year. However, operation of this project will be greatly influenced by the operation of the Joun Hydro Electric Power plant (HEP) system and by the season. These factors will also affect the water quality.Upstream Joun Lake, the Karaoun Lake collects water from the Litani River impounding a total volume 220 Mm3 of water. Priority of allocation of this water is given to irrigation and drinking



purposes. 30 Mm3 are used for irrigation in Tyre, Saida and other southern villages whereas a volume of 40Mm3 is to be maintained for the Lake. The remaining 150 Mm3 are used for generating hydroelectric power at the stations shown in Table 3-26.

Table 3-26 Hydroelectric Power Plant Chracteristics

HEP ELEVATION MAXIMUM DISCHARGE INSTALLED POWER

Markaba 658 m 22 m3/s 34 Mw

Awali 228.5 m 33 m3/s 108 Mw

Joun 32 m 33 m3/s 48 Mw

In the dry season, the main source of water will be the Karaoun Lake. Water will be drawn from the Karaoun Reservoir (capacity 220 Mm3).In the wet season, the source may be both the Karaoun Lake and the Awali River. The Awali River is a mountain stream on the western side of the Mount Lebanon range. Upstream of the Joun Lake and the Awali HEP, the catchment area is about 300 Km2.The flow of Awali is seasonal and highly variable, averaging 3.0 m3/s, but varying from 0.1 m3/s in late summer to 30 m3/s and over during spring runoff.Some of the flow from Litani and most of the flow from the Awali are combined in Joun Lake (also known as the Awali compensation basin). This is located immediately downstream of the Awali HEP, before up to 30 m3/s of flow is passed through the existing Joun tunnel to the Joun HEP. Residual flow from the Awali River is passed along the natural river channel.



Figure 3-6 Schematic Drawing of Water Resources

The existing HEP system is operated as a power peaking system for approximately four hours per day. During periods of high flow in the Awali River (December to April), the final stage of the system (Joun HEP) may be operated 24 hours per day. Under these conditions, the maximum flow which can be diverted to the Awali project may have to be limited to 2.5m3/s for part of the 4 hour peak period of power generation. Table 3-27 summarizes key factors determining source of water.

Table 3-27 Key Factors Determining the Source of Water

SEASONAL CONDITION HEP OPERATIONAL

CONDITION

SOURCE DIVERSION

Awali River flow exceeds

3m3/s

Off-peak hours Awali River 3 m3/s

Wet Season Peak hours Litani River 2.5 m3/s

Dry Season (flow < 3m3/s) Litani River 3 m3/s

3.3.2 Joun Regulation Structure

The raw water flow will be self-regulated at the Joun Regulation Structure by means of a level control valve.



The velocity limiting valves upstream are also designed to close in the event of failure of the level control valve.This structure will normally be unmanned. It will be inspected for maintenance every month.

3.3.3 Tunnel and Pipelines

There is a risk of build-up of deposits at the low points in the tunnel system in the Joun – Ouardaniye inverted siphon and to a much lesser extent in the Nahr Damour inverted siphon. Slight opening of the washout valves at Wadi Abou Yabes and Nahr Damour every 6 (six) months will be sufficient to scour out any deposits.It is recommended that the whole tunnel and pipeline system be emptied every 5 (five) years for an overall internal inspection. It can be partially drained by allowing the water level to be lowered by normal usage except for the Joun-Ouardaniye WTW section which would be drained from the 700mm washout at Wadi Abou Yabes, the 900mm washout at Nahr Damour inverted siphon and a number of washouts on the Khalde to Hadath/Hazmieh pipelines.Air valves and 250 – 400mm diameter washouts will be provided at high and low points respectively along the proposed pipelines from Khalde to Hadath and Hazmieh. Washouts will discharge water to dry stream beds. Air valves will result in only occasional discharges of air which has come out of solution or entered the pipeline during maintenance, whilst the washouts will operate only during emergency or planned maintenance.The tunnel system will also be inspected in the event of significant seismic activity.

3.3.4 Ouardaniye WTW

The Ouardaniye WTW will be operated by a staff of 25 to 30 persons. It will operate automatically for 16 hours per day, with a shift system of staff covering operation outside normal working hours. The overall system control will be from a Central Control Room including monitoring and control of raw and treated water quality. Works throughput will be set daily to satisfy anticipated demand and the water levels in the Hadath and Hazmieh Reservoirs. In the event of the reservoirs and tunnel being full, the rising water level at the WTW outlet will be used to control throttling of the inlet flow at Joun. The treatment plant is designed to have the capacity of treatment of 9m3/s flow of water if additional water resources are supplied in the future.Table 3-28 and 3-29 summarize respectively the inputs and outputs arising during normal operation of the works and indicate the vehicular movements required. These are subject to modifications after final stage design.

Table 3-28 Ouardaniye WTW –Mean Operational Inputs and Vehicular Movements

OPERATIONAL INPUT MEAN INPUTS/DAY MEAN VEHICULAR

MOVEMENTS REQUIRED

Ferric Chloride (liquid) 6.6 tones 40/month

Cationic Polymer (liquid) 270 kg 2/month



OPERATIONAL INPUT MEAN INPUTS/DAY MEAN VEHICULAR

MOVEMENTS REQUIRED

Anionic Polymer (powder) 50 kg 0.5/month

Caustic Soda (liquid) 5.6 tones 35/month

Chlorine (gas) 1.0 tone 15/month

Ammonia (liquid) 0.4 tones 3/month

Spare Chemicals 130 kg 1/month

Fuel Oil Emergency use only Assume 1/month

WTW Staff 25-30/day 15 cars/day

Table 3-29 Ouardaniye WTW –Mean Operational Outputs and Vehicular Movements

OPERATIONAL OUTPUT RANGE OF OUTPUT VEHICULAR MOVEMENTS

REQUIRED

Sludge liquid 4,500 – 10,700 m3/d N/A

Sludge – dewatered (to 15%) to

quarry or landfill

11 – 200 tones/d 2 – 28 tankers/d

Works overflow (emergency ) to

sea

Up to 0.5 to 1 m3/d max for short

periods

-

Chemicals and consumables

packaging and containers and

canteen waste

Quantities to be identified Quantities to be identified

Overflows capable of discharging a fraction of the WTW’s capacity (up to about 1000 l/s) during operational changes will be removed by a 600mm diameter pipeline following the route of the WTW access road and discharged to a dry stream bed and thence into the sea. Emergency drainage from the flocculators, clarifiers, rapid gravity filters and filter wash water will follow the same route.During commissioning of the WTW and the conveyor system, production water will be discharged through the emergency outfall or through the washouts. Chlorinated water will be de-chlorinated prior to discharge.Surface water drainage from the WTW will be designed for a storm with a 1 in 20 year return period and will be routed to Wadi Baraz to the north of the WTW site. At the lower end, the wadi will require improvement by the construction of a concrete channel to direct flow to the culverts under the coastal road and railway, and an outfall structure under the beach. Petrol/oil will be provided where appropriate and drainage from the area in front of the Chemical House will be separated and routed to a chemical drain system which serves the chemical loading and handling areas. The system will discharge to the sludge thickening plant for disposal to landfill with the sludge.Foul sewage from the WTW will be collected and treated in accordance with accepted local technology. In the absence of a local sewer system, a properly designed septic tank or small treatment works will be installed.



3.3.5 Khalde Surge Structure

The Khalde Surge Structure will be unmanned. It will be inspected for maintenance annually. Detailed surge analysis will be used in the design process to ensure that the surge shaft structure will not overflow and flood adjoining land. The shaft and its compound will be equipped with appropriate safety measures to prevent the ingress of foreign bodies into the treated water.

3.3.6 Khalde Flow measurement and Sampling Chamber

The Khalde Measurement and Sampling Chamber will also be unmanned. However, as it is the point at which the Contractor will be contractually required to deliver treated water, it will be visited daily for water sampling. Upkeep and maintenance will be the responsibility of the Contractor.Immediately downstream of this Chamber will be velocity limiting valves which will close in the event of catastrophic failure of the downstream pipelines.

3.3.7 Khalde Distribution Chamber

The operation of the unmanned Khalde Distribution Chamber will be the responsibility of the BMLWE, which will operate the distribution valves manually.

3.3.8 Hadath 90 and 125 and Hazmieh 90 Reservoirs

The Hadath and Hazmieh Reservoirs will be unmanned structures and also the responsibility of the BMLWWA. Information on water level and water quality will be transmitted to the Central Control Room at the Ouardaniye WTW. Emergency re-chlorination will be provided at the reservoirs using mobile facilities.

3.4WATER QUALITY AND TREATMENT PROCESS

3.4.1 Raw Water Quality

The raw water will be delivered to the plant by the use of tunnels that belong to the existing hydroelectric system. There are two main sources of water:

3. Karaoun lake;4. Awali River.

The quality for each source over the period of at least a full year must be analyzed in detail before start of construction phase. For this purpose a new sampling campaign was adapted and had started in April and is still ongoing.The source of water supply is very important to the project as the Karaoun lake and Awali River differ from each other in terms of water quality. According to past water quality monitoring data which formed the basis for previous studies and designs, the Karaoun lake has a better water quality when compared to the Awali source. This may have been affected however by reported increase in industrial and agricultural activity in the lower Beqa’a valley, the feeder catchment of the Litani River.



Raw water quality has been analyzed several times in the past with the first one being in 1968/1972, the second one in August 1984 and the third one in 1994/1995. The most recent water quality analysis was conducted in 2001. The first two can be considered outdated as it is suspected that the condition and status of the tunnels, hydroelectric power plant and dams may have changed during the proceeding period. The analysis conducted in 1994/1995 contained some information on the most important parameters; however the feasibility report and the preliminary design report of Montgomery Watson did not cover comprehensive water quality information on a seasonal basis for both the Karaoun and Awali sources.The 2001 analyses provided further and detailed information on specific chemical substances and also herbicides/pesticides which seemed to be either below the detection limits or lower than the effluent requirements. Specific and detailed assessment will be provided in a later stage. The results did not indicate issues that could have had a potential impact on the treatment scheme. In fact, the water quality did not differ much from the one given in the earlier feasibility report, however it is noteworthy that the 2001 sampling and analyses campaign seemed to be limited in the number of samples taken and lacking in seasonal water quality results which is the most crucial information that must be obtained for finalizing the treatment scheme.The 2001 analyses report contains information on separate water sources such as the Awali and Litani Rivers, based on samples taken in winter and spring of 1994/1995. This information could not be located in the 1994 feasibility report.From a treatment plant design perspective, this information was found to be more valuable as it showed how both sources deteriorated in quality in winter when it is suspected that wet weather events might have occurred although these have not been clearly stated. It is therefore prudent to take into consideration the results obtained from the sampling and analysis program conducted in 1994 and 1995.The new sampling and analysis campaign to determine the current water quality of the Litani and Awali sources must be a combination of the 1994/1995 and 2001 analyses. The combination can be defined by the need:

I. To derive the seasonal water quality and associated changes;II. To include all the chemical, microbiological and indicator parameters as outlined and

classified in the latest 98/83/EC drinking water directive and the Lebanese Environmental Quality Standards & Criteria for water listed in Ministerial Decision No. 52/1, MoE.

The results of the sampling and analysis campaign are given in Appendix O.Apart from the numerical results, both the Awali and Litani sources were characterized as being noncorrosive, moderately hard and low in organics. It was also observed that there were no point discharges of wastewater of either domestic or industrial type. However, due to agricultural activities, pesticides could be a threat to the water source and testing of this regard must be made a key consideration during the engineering design.It is not possible to immediately verify the conclusions and assumptions which were the basis of the 1994 feasibility study or the subsequent preliminary design. This is due to lack of recent detailed water quality monitoring data at the points of concern to this project, and the fact that new data would need to be collected over long periods to capture seasonal variations. Accurate up-



to-date analysis results will not only help in a better and an efficient design of the potable water treatment plant but also aid in defining the chemical dosage and consumption. It is noteworthy that the correct selection and dosing requirement of the coagulation chemicals will have to be determined via jar tests which have not been done up to now. The raw water quality as estimated in the 1994 feasibility report is shown in Table 3-30., based on the combined range of quality parameters from both the Liatni and the Awali sources

Table 3-30 Raw Water Quality

PARAMETER UNIT MEAN MAXIMUM MINIMUM

Temperature oC 14 18 10

PH 8 (typ) 8.4 6.9

Color PE/Co 2.0 7.5 1.0

Turbidity FTU 20 155 1

Suspended Solids mg/L 14 28 6

Conductivity µS/cm 265 409 200

TDS mg/L (CACO3) 253 288 232

Alkalinity mg/L (CaCO3) 158 240 140

Hardness mg/L 175 240 150

Calcium mg/L 58 80 42

Magnesium mg/L 9 12 5

Sodium mg/L 10 13 7

Ammonia mg/L 0.1 0.4 0

Nitrate mg/L 0.9 1.0 0.7

Chloride mg/L 18 25 12

Fluoride mg/L 0.12 0.15 0.07

Iron mg/L 0.16 0.33 0.1

BOD mg/L 2.6 5.5 0.9

Dissolved Oxygen mg/L 5.1 11.8 1.0

Coliforms No./100mL 115 370 5

THM Potential mg/L <34 <21

Total Organic Carbon mg/L 0.7 0.93 0.58

The influent parameters suggest that the raw water has a mild to moderate quality. However due to variable raw water quality linked to seasonal changes especially for the Awali source; specific new analysis should be conducted to determine the raw water quality during wet weather events. There is no information as to when the sampling and analysis were conducted to derive the above given water quality, and most important of all, it is not known whether the maximum values correspond to wet weather events or they are the maximum influent parameters corresponding to the dry season. Seasonal raw water analysis plays an important role in defining the water quality



and hence the most efficient and economical process. Furthermore, manganese concentration is missing in the estimated raw water quality which has a prime importance in the design.The result of raw water analysis conducted on specific sources in 1994 and 1995 are summarized in Table 3-31. Only the parameters which have significant importance to the process have been shown. It can be seen that influent parameters vary greatly between summer and winter months and can reach to very high levels especially for suspended solids and turbidity. Again, it is clearly illustrated that the Litani River source has a better quality than the Awali River source.

Table 3-31 Water Quality Analysis (1994 and 1995)

PARAMETER 14.02.1994 04.07.1994 13.01.1995

Awali Litani Awali Litani Awali Litani

TSS (mg/L) n/a n/a n/a n/a 22 14

Turbidity (NTU) 150 80 n/a n/a 5.5

T, Coliform (No./100mL) n/a n/a n/a n/a 67

pH 8.2 7.8 n/a n/a 7.1

PARAMETER 07.02.1995 18.03.1995 18.05.1995

TSS (mg/L) n/a n/a 110 n/a 16 14

Turbidity (NTU) 350 22 59 n/a 0.7 1.8

T, Coliform (No./100mL) n/a n/a 58 n/a 0 3

pH 8.1 7.7 7.55 n/a 7.5 7.3

It is suspected that the samples taken on 14.02.1994, 07.02.1995 and 18.03.1995 may have coincided with wet weather events however nothing has been noted to justify this. If this is the case then it can be concluded that Awali river water quality during wet weather events deteriorates more than the Litani source with TSS and turbidity levels reaching up to 110 mg/L and 350 NTU respectively.. It is also important to note that inlet pH can be below 7. It has been nearly 16 years since the last sampling and analysis campaign was conducted and it is imperative that up to date raw water quality must be derived to validate the latest situation of the raw water quality to be used as the basis for design. The possibility of a lower water quality in both the Awali and Litani sources should not be ruled out as over the years, residential and commercial developments.Increase in agricultural activity and industrialization may have affected the water sources and to ascertain this, a new sampling and analysis campaign was recommended by Montgomery Watson.

3.4.2 Treated Water Quality

The treated water quality given in the feasibility study needs to be updated taking into consideration the Lebanese standards and the latest amendments in various drinking water guideline standards i.e., WHO and EU. The feasibility study was completed in 1994; however in 1998 the European Council issued the new drinking water directive, 98/83/EC which provides a more detailed treated water consent under three different categories; microbiological parameters,



chemical parameters and indicator parameters. Recently the third edition of the World Health Organization (WHO), Guidelines for Drinking Water Quality was released in 2008.The previously recommended treated water quality targets will have to be revisited prior the start of the project. A combination of the national standards and that of EU and WHO standards are recommended for the Awali treatment scheme to derive a more comprehensive water quality than the one previously defined. Each parameter will have to be evaluated one by one on the basis of their effect on public health, implication on water transmission and public acceptability. The recommended treated water quality targets are compared to standards in Table 3-32.



Table 3-32 Drinking Water Standards

PARAMETER RECOMMENDED IN

1994 FEASIBILITY

STUDY

EU

STANDARDS

WHO STANDARDS LEBANESE NATIONAL

STANDARDS (GUIDING

LIMITS) (MOE DECISION

52/1/1996

LEBANESE NATIONAL

STANDARDS (MAX

ACCEPTABLE)

Color Pt/Co 5 max - - 1 15

Turbidity FTU 0.2 (95%)

0.5 max

- - 0.4 4

Temperature oC <25 - - 12 25

pH 8.0-8.5 - 6.5 -8.5 6.5 8.5 9

Conductivity µS/cm 500 250 250 400 mS/cm @20 degrees -

Chlorides mglL 50 250 250 25 200

Hardness Mg/L CaCo3 300 - 150-500 - -

Dissolved Oxygen % 75 minimum - <75 <70 -

TOC mg/L 2.0 - - - -

Total Coliforms Per 100 mL 0 0 0 0 -

THMs 50 0.1 mg/L 0.1 mg/L

Chlorine mg/L 5 maximum - 5

Monochloramine 3 maximum

2.5 minimum

Pesticides Total 0.1 0.1 -

Pesticides individual 0.5 0.5 -



3.4.3 Water Treatment Process Scheme

The proposed treatment process has been reevaluated by Montgomery Watson as part of updating the feasibility report. The major goal was to assess its ability for fulfilling the new drinking water guidelines and standards issued by the European Council and also the World Health Organization (WHO). When doing this, the variable raw water quality due to seasonal changes has also been taken into account to provide a process scheme that will be capable of treating two different raw water characters to the desired effluent quality. The selection of appropriate chemicals that will be easy to handle, readily available and will have the minimum impact to the process in terms of sludge production and alkalinity consumption were considered as the key points in selecting these chemicals.The updated and proposed new treatment scheme will comprise the following unit operations and processes:

- Screening;- Cascade aeration;- Ozonation;- Coagulation;- Flocculation;- Sedimentation;- Media filtration;- Treated water reservoir;- Final disinfection;- pH adjustment;- Ammoniation;- Thickening and dewatering of excess sludge;- Collection of supernatant from thickening and dewatering;- Dirty backwash collection.

The process flow diagram of the updated proposed treatment scheme can be seen in Figure 3-7 and Figure 3-8. Two options are presented which are related to the bypass of coagulation/flocculation/settling phases when the raw water quality is good and will not need settling. In this case as mentioned above direct filtration will be enough to treat the water to comply with the treated water quality. As it can be seen from the process flow diagram for the first option, the raw water bypasses all the coagulation/flocculation and settling tanks and flows into the filters. In this case, an inline static mixer is provided and the coagulant, flocculant can be dosed to this section of the plant before going to the sand filters. In this option, raw water passes through ozonation for pre-oxidation and pre-disinfection. The static mixer will aid in coagulation and flocculation. Alternatively, the chemicals can also be dosed to the outlet of the cascade aeration structure where the turbulence is high.In the second option, the raw water flows through ozonation, coagulation and flocculation but bypasses settling and flows directly to the sand filters. In this way during direct filtration the main flash and slow mixing units will still be used for coagulation and flocculation. Both of the above



mentioned options avoid the use of secondary (intermediate mixing) mixing facilities to be utilized only during direct filtration. The arrangement to be implemented should be decided by the contractor. The Awali treatment plant will have two parallel streams.The unit operations and processes and the justifications for the updated process scheme are discussed separately in this section. The tentative dimensions given in the tables are for 3.09 m3/sec net inlet flow capacity which includes 3% water losses for backwashing. Exact amount of water losses to be taken into account for the inlet flow should be defined by the contractor.



Figure 3-7 Proposed Treatment Process (Option1)



Figure 3-8 Proposed treatment Process (Option2)




ScreeningScreening has been foreseen to avoid small/large objects such as grasses, leaves, plastic debris etc flowing to the treatment plant which can enter the raw water source in many different ways. Absence of screens can lead to problems. It is essential to install coarse screens to protect the downstream processes. Therefore bar screens have been foreseen with 40-50 mm opening widths. At this stage automatically operated screens have been foreseen, however the type and operation mode of the screen will have to be finalized by the contractor.AerationAeration involves bringing air in contact with water to transfer volatile substances from the liquid into the gaseous phase and to dissolve beneficial gases into the water. The purposes of aeration in water treatment are:

to reduce the concentration of taste and odor causing substances such as H2S or other volatile organic compounds;

Oxidation of iron and manganese; Addition of oxygen to the raw water which can be deficient in dissolved oxygen.

The available data does not suggest the necessity of aeration at first glance, however it should be noted that the data is very limited and does not extensively cover the seasonal changes in the raw water quality. Cascade aeration is proposed which does not involve any mechanical parts and the oxygen transfer is solely related to the fall of the water over a number of steps. It will be a concrete structure having three steps and each step having a 50-cm fall (Table 3-33). The water is supplied via long tunnels so especially during the summer times the raw water could be deficient in oxygen which can have implications on taste and odor issues. Therefore it is sensible to construct a cascade aeration system for the Awali process scheme. One cascade aeration system can be constructed to serve the system requirements; this should be checked by the contractor.

Table 3-33 Proposed Specifications of Cascade Aeration System

SPECIFICATION UNIT VALUE

Number of falls No. 3

Height of fall m 0.5

Number of sides No. 4

Length on each side m 7.5

Total static fall m 1.5

Width of each step m 0.6

Pre-oxidation and disinfection using OzoneOzone is a powerful oxidant and has many uses in water treatment, including oxidation of organic chemicals. Ozone can also be used as a primary disinfectant. Ozone gas (O3) is formed by passing dry air or oxygen through a high-voltage electric field. When used for the pretreatment of raw surface water, ozone prevents the formation of THMs and other chlorinated derivatives. Ozone is more widely used as the pre-oxidant in water treatment systems because it has a number of




benefits by improving clarification effectiveness (turbidity, color, residual micro-algae, OM, THM precursors) and in most cases by reducing the coagulant demand. In many plants it has been proven that with pre-ozonation:

Coagulation and flocculation are enhanced and performance of sedimentation and filtration processes is improved;

Odors are not created or intensified by formation of complexes; Chlorine demand is reduced and in turn lowers chlorine dosage and so THM

formation potential; Complex taste, odor and color problems are effectively reduced or eliminated; Organic impurities are rapidly oxidized; Effective pre-disinfection is achieved over a wide range of temperature and pH; Removal of pesticides and herbicides; Removes iron and manganese.

Ozone is now widely used in most of the conventional potable water treatment plants and the dosage is very small which will be in the range of 0.5 to 2 mg/L. It is suspected that the dosage will not exceed 0.7-1.0 mg/L for the Awali scheme.Available data does not necessitate the use of a pre-oxidation step at first glance, however it is noteworthy to mention that the current available analysis results are very limited and do not cover a year round seasonal sampling analysis. The quality of both water sources during wet weather events is very important to conclude on the necessity of the pre-oxidation step using ozone. Nevertheless, the following are the specific benefits of having pre-ozonation at the Awali plant:

- Will improve the performance of coagulation and flocculation and even reduce the coagulant demand;

- Will oxidize the organics;- Will eliminate problems with taste, odour and color;- Will eliminate the risk disinfection byproducts (THM and other);- Will remove the small amount of pesticides and herbicides detected in the raw

water which have strict treated water quality targets.Intermediate ozonation has also been foreseen in the feasibility report as a future item to aid in the removal of pesticides, herbicides, to enhance coagulation, flocculation and reduce the disinfection by products such as THMs and chlorinated compounds. Taste and odor issues caused by disinfectants and DBPs are best controlled through careful operation of the disinfection process. In principle, they can be avoided by using ozone.By the use of the process scheme given in Figure 3-7 and Figure 3-8 the water will be pre-ozonated both during settling and direct filtration.Concrete covered tanks will be used to provide the required ozone contact time which will be determined by the contractor stage.In the absence of a detailed raw water sampling and analysis campaign, it is prudent to include the preozonation for both oxidation and pre-disinfection purposes for the Awali treatment plant. However the final decision will be taken once the detailed analysis results are available to ascertain the present raw water quality. The possibility of a lower water quality both for the Awali and lake




Karaoun sources should not be ruled out as over the years, residential and commercial developments, agricultural activity and industrialization may have affected the water sources and to be sure, up to date sampling and analysis should be conducted.

Table 3-34 Proposed Specification for Pre-oxidation and Disinfection.


Location Upstream of settling tank

Detention time min 6

Max dose mg/L 2

Generators (one standby) No. 2

Capacity of each generator Kg/h 20

Ozone contact basin No. 4

Depth m 4.25

Length m 8

Width m 8

Pre-oxidation chemical O3

Pre-disinfection chemical O3

CoagulationCoagulation is a chemical treatment process used to destabilize colloidal particles. In this process chemicals are added to the water that either break down the stabilizing forces, enhance the destabilizing forces, or both. Typically aluminum and iron salts are used as coagulants i.e., aluminium sulphate, ferric chloride, ferrous sulphate etc. As mentioned earlier, although several options have been discussed for the main coagulant in the feasibility study, ferric chloride was chosen as the chemical to be used for coagulation. After reevaluation of the current and best practice and considering the advantages and disadvantages of these chemicals, anhydrous aluminum sulphate is proposed as the main coagulant.Although both chemicals are used in water treatment processes depending on price, availability, handling etc, aluminum sulphate has a wider usage. There are several advantages of aluminum sulphate compared to iron salts which can be listed as:

Availability, as anhydrous aluminum sulphate is very easy to obtain (Subject to availability on the local market);

Price, as anhydrous aluminum sulphate is cheaper compared to especially ferric chloride (Subject to availability on the local market);

Will consume less alkalinity of natural water compared to ferric chloride (ferric based salts will consume 0.75-0.92 mg/L CaCO3 alkalinity per 1 mg of salt dosed; alum will consume 0.50 mg/L CaCO3 alkalinity per 1 mg of salt dosed);

Will produce less inorganic sludge compared to ferric chloride (ferric based salts will produce 0.54- 0.66 mg insoluble precipitate per 1 mg of salt dosed; alum will produce 0.26 mg insoluble precipitate per 1 mg of salt dosed).




Apart from its advantages, handling of aluminum sulphate is slightly more complex which requires the use of silos and feeding screws to prepare 6%-10% w/w dosing solution in flash mixing tanks. Furthermore, the optimum working pH of aluminum sulphate is 6.0-7.4 which will require the dosing of an acid (pH adjustment chemical) to reduce the pH of the incoming raw water to the desirable range and also meet the 0.05 mg/L Al effluent consent. Since the raw water pH is in the range of 6.9-8.0, the amount of acid to be dosed will not be significant. On the other hand, due to the addition of certain chemicals, the natural alkalinity of the water will be consumed and a final alkalinity buffering and pH correction will have to be done anyway. Ferric chloride has the disadvantage and possibility of leaving a residual red color in the treated water if the process is not well controlled. This has been experienced in some plants. Furthermore, iron promotes the growth of iron bacteria if ferrous sulphate is used. This may cause rust-colored deposits on the walls of tanks, pipes and channels and carry-over of deposits into the water.However, it is very important to once again mention that the final selection of the coagulation chemical will be done following jar tests conducted on samples taken from both water sources also taking into consideration the availability of the chemicals in the local Lebanese market. It is also known from previous experience that alum is a more cost effective chemical than ferric.Coagulation will be carried out in concrete flash mixing tanks by the use of rapid mixers to provide thorough dispersion and mixing of the chemical. The success of this unit operation depends on this.Mechanical in-tank coagulation is necessary especially due to low raw water temperatures. It is proposed to use two tanks in series where the first tank will receive the pH adjustment chemical and the coagulant.

Table 3-35 Proposed Specifications for Coagulation


Type In tank mixing

Detention time Min 1

Number No. 4 (2 in series in each stream)

Length m 3.3

Width m 3.3

Depth m 4.25

Mixer Type Turbine flash mixer

Energy Gradient S-1 750-1000

Power kW 37

Main Coagulant Al2(So4)3

pH adjustment chemical H2SO4

FlocculationThe coagulation process chemically modifies the colloidal particles so that the stabilizing forces are reduced. To ensure that a maximum amount of turbidity is removed, mixing conditions and energy input must be properly provided after rapid mixing to allow aggregation of destabilized particles.




The coagulated water must be gently stirred to promote the growth of flocs which can be removed by sedimentation or filtration. The typical floc size is in the range of 0.1-2.0 mm. Jar tests will have to be conducted to determine the correct type of polyelectrolyte i.e. anionic, non-ionic or cationic. Mostly anionic types of polymers are used depending on the nature of the colloids. Metallic oxides are generally positively charged. However most surface waters carry negatively charged colloids which may require the use of cationic polymer. As mentioned previously, jar tests will be conducted to determine the type of polymer to be used during settling and direct filtration. Coagulated water and the polymer will be mixed in concrete flocculation tanks equipped with slow paddle type stirrers. To enhance the growth of flocs tapered velocity gradient will be applied using three tanks in series.

Table 3-36 Proposed Specifications for Flocculation


Type In tank mixing

Detention time Min 2

Number No. 6 (3 in series in each stream)

Length m 12

Width m 12

Depth m 4.25

Mixer type Paddle type slow stirrer

Energy Gradient (first compartment) S-1 60

Energy Gradient (second compartment) S-1 30

Energy Gradient (third compartment) S-1 15

Power (first compartment) kW 7.5

Power (second compartment) kW 2.2

Power (third compartment) kW 1.1

Main flocculant Anionic Polyelectrolyte

SedimentationDue to land constraints, lamella type plate settlers will be used. This type of settlers consists of banks of small plates inclined at 45o to 60o angles from horizontal. The lamella plate settlers provide enhanced solids removal because, 1) the settling distance that a particle falls to enter the

sludge zone is reduced (thus, the surface loading rate is reduced in the basin), 2) Laminar flow is

achieved through the plates (thus nearly ideal settling conditions are encountered), 3) Density

currents, temperature currents and wave action do not hinder the sedimentation process.

The sludge will be automatically removed using motorized valves and pumps. Sludge will be pumped to sludge thickeners. Mechanical scrapers will be used to scrape the settled sludge to the hoppers.




Table 3-37 Proposed Specifications for Sedimentation


Type Lamella Plate settler

Detention time min 20

Number No. 2 (one in each stream)

Specific loading rate m3/m2-h 1.0

Footprint loading rate m3/m2-h 17.9

Lamella size m 3.26 x 1.25

Lamella inclination Degree 55

Horizontal spacing mm 80

Number of lamella per unit No. 2036

Number of rows per unit No. 10

Length m 12

Width m 13

Depth m 5 – 5.5

Launder channel On top of lamella stacks

De-sludging Automatic via pumps and

motorized valves

FiltrationFurther removal of colloidal particles is required to meet stringent public health standards. The filtration process used in water treatment involves passing of the flow through a bed of granular media such as sand, anthracite or activated carbon. As the water passes through the media, the suspended particles are entrapped in the pore spaces of the media and thus removed from the liquid stream.Rapid sand filters have also been foreseen in the updated process scheme as done in the feasibility study.Dual media sand filters are recommended with sand and anthracite which will facilitate further removal of organics and also eliminate taste and odour problems. The filter media can also be replaced with granular activated carbon if the necessity arises. Filters will have a combined air and water backwash (CAW) sequence to provide the most efficient way of removing entrapped solids and this will be fully automatic.




Table 3-38 Proposed Specifications for Filtration


Type Rapid, Dual Media

Media Sand + anthracite

Number of filters No. 10

Filtration rate (1 filter offline) m3/m2-h 10.1

Required total area m2 1236

Area of each filter m2 124

Filter bed arrangement Twin bed

Length of each twin bed filter m 13.5

Width of each twin bed filter m 4.5

Media depth m 1.2m (sand) + 0.4m (anthracite)

Media effective size Mm 1.0

Number of filters backwashed No. 1

Water backwash rate (low) m3/m2-h 40

Water backwash rate (rinse) m3/m2-h 40

Air backwash Nm3/m2-h 60

Required low backwash flow rate m3/h 3645

Required rinse backwash flow rate m3/h 4860

Required air backwash flow rate Nm3/h 7290

Total washwater requirement during

one backwash

m3 510

Clean backwash tank volume m3 730

Dirty backwash volume m3 730

Design backwash duration min 17

There are two options for the dirty backwash water disposal and handling as proposed by the designer: 1) it can be discharged to the thickeners or 2) it can be directly sent to the wadi. The latter must be further investigated and confirmed with the local regulatory authorities. The dirty backwash water tank will be equipped with a submersible mixer to keep its content in suspension.Post ChlorinationPost chlorination will be carried out using gas chlorine. The contact tank will have a detention time of 30 minutes and will be baffled to provide plug flow conditions. Two tanks have been foreseen for ease of operation and maintenance. Average chlorine dose of 3.5 mg/L and a maximum dose of 5 mg/L is expected and the capacity of the gas chlorination system has been based on this dosage.The preliminary dimensions of each chlorine contact tank will be as follows; length=25m, width =12.5m and the water depth will be 4.25m.




Treated Water ReservoirA treated water reservoir has been foreseen to store the treated water up to a maximum of 1 hour. The same criteria have been taken into account in the feasibility study. Two tanks each having a capacity of 5750 m3 will be sufficient to satisfy this requirement. The tanks can be isolated with penstocks. The preliminary dimensions of each reservoir will be as follows: length=33m, width=33m and the water depth will be 5m. The necessity and capacity of the treated water reservoir will be reevaluated by the contractor.Post pH AdjustmentChemical dosing will consume the natural alkalinity of the raw water and hence decrease the pH as the water passes through the treatment steps. In the updated process, due to the recommendation of alum, acid will be dosed to decrease the pH of the raw water to the desired level for optimum coagulation. This will further reduce the buffer capacity of the water and decrease the pH. Therefore the final treated effluent has to have the necessary alkalinity buffer and also has to be in the pH range as given in the treated water quality.Certain chemicals can be used for this purpose such as hydrated lime, quick lime or caustic soda. In the feasibility study lime has been chosen because of its price. Nothing has been mentioned about lime being more readily available than caustic. However as outlined in the same report there are a lot of implications associated with using lime and many plants in the world have considered caustic for pH adjustment. Below are some of the negative aspects of using lime in water treatment plants:

It is very difficult to handle. In large treatment plants it can only be stored in silos which result in arching. It is also very dusty;

There are many impurities; It may further increase the turbidity of the water due to these impurities. (this is

especially crucial if dosed into treated water); Impurities from lime can settle out in pipelines and in reservoirs; They require sophisticated storage and handling equipments; Capital cost of lime storage and dosing facilities is high and so are the maintenance

costs.

Furthermore when dissolved in water, Ca2+ contained in lime may form CaCO3 and CaSO4 precipitates which can settle in pipes, reservoirs and cause scaling. Therefore due to the reasons stated above, it can be concluded that technically, caustic soda is a preferred chemical to be used for post pH adjustment. However, the final selection of the post pH adjustment chemical will be left to the final design stage as there have been some reports that caustic is not available in the local market but can be imported. This needs to be further investigated.AmmoniationAmmoniation is the process where monochloramines are formed by the addition of ammonium into the treated water. Ammonia converts free chlorine residual to chloramines. In this form, chlorine is less reactive, lasts longer and has fewer tendencies to combine with organic compounds thus reducing taste and odor and THM formation. However dosage of liquid ammonia has to be carefully adjusted as excessive amounts can lead to the formation of disinfection by products. Ammoniation




process was foreseen as an optional item in the feasibility study however it is recommended to include this as part of the process scheme. It is expected that the dosage will be in the range of 0.5-1.0 mg/L. Chemical StorageTotal quantities of chemical storage will depend of the selection of coagulant and flocculent and their relevant dosing rates decided by the contractor. It is very hard to be definitive about this at this stage but the designer has provided in the following table a guidance on expected quantities.

Table 3-39 Chemical Storage

CHEMICAL NO. DAYS

STORAGE

INITIAL ULTIMATE

Ferric Chloride

(40% solution, 1450kg/m3)

60 400 tonnes

2 tanks X 135 m3

600 tonnes

3 tanks X 135 m3

Cationic Polymer

(liquid, 1100/m3)

30 16 tonnes

2 tanks X 7 m3

600 tonnes

3 tanks X 7 m3

Anionic Polymer

(Dry, 900kg/m3)

30 1.5 tonnes

Floor Space

3 tonnes

Floor Space

Caustic Soda

(25% solution, 1250kg/m3)

30 480 tonnes

2 tanks X 190 m3

720 tonnes

3 tanks X 190m3

Chlorine

(Liquid gas, one tone cylinder)

60 60 tonnes

60 cylinders

120 tonnes

120 cylinders

Aqueous Amonia

(liquid 25% solution, 0.95 tonnes/m3)

60 400 tonnes

2 tanks X 135 m3

36 tonnes

3 tanks X 12m3

Spare chemical*

(Dry, 4% soluble)

30 4 tonnes

One m3 day tank

8 tonnes

One m3 day tank

Note * Quantities based on potassium Permanganate

Sludge TreatmentCoagulation sludge is produced by flocculating and settling natural turbidity. Alum and iron salts will react with alkalinity and form precipitates of alum and iron hydroxides. Settled sludge contains these hydroxide precipitates and also turbidity causing organic and inorganic compounds. The sludge produced from water treatment facilities is stable, because mostly there is no organic matter to undergo active decomposition or promote an anaerobic condition. As a result, the sludge is often allowed to accumulate in sedimentation basins and holding/thickening tanks for days. Basic characteristics of coagulation sludge which needs to be taken into account during the design are as follows:

The solids concentration, thickening, density and de-waterability of the produced sludge are highly dependent on the raw water quality;




Treatment of high turbidity surface water will result in sludge that is more concentrated and less difficult to dewater, sludge produced from the treatment of low turbidity surface water will be difficult to process;

Coagulation sludge from water containing high algae, will result in light and low solids concentration;

Sludge that have a high proportion of metal hydroxides are easily dewatered because metal hydroxides have water molecules in their structure that can separate the floc and other particles;

Addition of polymer, lime will increase the solids concentration; Alum sludge is a voluminous gelatinous sludge with poor compressibility. It will

generally concentrate to 0.5-3% solids in the sedimentation basin; Sludge concentration in the settling tanks depends on how they are operated.

Typical concentration varies between 0.5-3% however this will increase if the sludge is allowed to accumulate for some time;

Density of sludge depends on the moisture content. Normally for surface water sludge, the density of dry sludge is in the range of 1200-1520 kg/m3.

In the 1994 feasibility study, several options have been proposed for the management of solids which can be listed as:

Option A - Marine disposal;Option B - Disposal at the Ras Damour Power Station;Option C - Disposal at a nearby cement plant;Option D - Disposal to restore local quarries;Option E - Disposal to landfill;Option F - Disposal to agricultural land; andOption G - Return of raw sludge to Joun.

It was concluded in the 1998 EIA report that disposal of sludge to the marine environment (Option A) would be an unacceptable long-term proposal, would give rise to low levels of water treatment chemicals being present in the marine environment and would have a high capital cost. Amongst all the alternatives given above, Option D was selected as the most viable option which is the disposal of sludge to restore local quarries (e .g. the small quarry west of the Ouardaniye WTW) with possible future use of the sludge as a construction material represented the best option for sludge disposal, provided that care will be taken to avoid groundwater contamination. In the longer term, it is also stated that the sludge may be disposed of to an engineered landfill or a wastewater treatment plant, once these are constructed. The selected option therefore represents a flexible approach to sludge disposal.In light of the proposed sludge management strategies given in the previous EIA study (for the short and long term) the onsite sludge treatment has to be provided. The following steps are recommended for the treatment of sludge:

• Sludge holding /thickening;• Sludge dewatering (with polymer aid);• Sludge liquor collection (supernatant tank).




As discussed earlier, alum sludge has a slimy, voluminous character which makes it difficult to process.Therefore the sizing of the units and design criteria must be carefully selected.Sludge thickening can be carried out in circular gravity thickeners which will also serve the purpose of sludge holding and storage. Thickened sludge can then be dewatered using belt press or centrifuges.Centrifuges have been preliminarily proposed during the feasibility study however they are costly and energy intensive. Alternatively, belt presses are proposed at this stage as they are very low in energy consumption and the sludge to be processed is fairly stable and will not potentially emit any malodors. In any case belt presses can be completely covered. Cationic polymer is recommended to aid in increasing the solids concentration and dewater ability however the selection of the type of polymer will be done at time of construction by the contractor. A supernatant tank has been foreseen with a reasonable detention time to collect sludge liquors resulting from thickening and dewatering processes. Sludge yield figures for treating 250,000 m3/s and 500,000 m3/s (twice the expected capacity under the current project) are given in Table 3-40. It depends on chemical type and dosage and whether direct filtration or coagulation/flocculation and settling are done.

Table 3-40 Sludge Yield

ANNUAL AVERAGE MAXIMUM 72 HOURS PEAK DAY

Tonnes/day m3/d Tonnes/day m3/d Tonnes/day m3/d

For treating

250,000 m3/s

7.8 2600 31 10300 75 25000

For treating

500,000 m3/s

15.5 5200 62 20600 150 50000

The yield assumes ferric sulphate is dosed as the principal coagulant and that the clarification produces a 0.3% so0lids sludge.Dry solids in the sludge cake will be 230*4*12*0.97= 10,708 kg/d (10.8 tons/d). Dry solids will not change unless the solids capture of the machine changes or more solids are produced from the liquid process due to higher turbidity, higher chemical dosage…etc. It is the wet sludge amount that will change with respect to dewatered sludge concentration and cake density. So for average conditions, the dry solids in the sludge cake will be approximately 11 tons/d and the wet sludge will be in the range of 58 m3/d to 73 m3/d dependant on the cake concentration (12-18%) for a density of 1200 kg/m3.The conceptual sizes of the sludge treatment units are shown in Table 3-41




Table 3-41 Conceptual Design Parameters of Sludge Treatment Units


THICKENING

Type Gravity

Number No. 3

Diameter M 20

Sidewater depth M 33.5

Solids loading Kg/m2-d 40

Hydraulic overflow loading Kg/m2-d 6

Scraper Picket fence type

Solids capture rate % 93-95

Thickened sludge concentration % 2-6

Thickened sludge flow m3/d 350

DEWATERING

Type Belt Press

Number No. 4

Belt width m 3

Solids throughout capacity of press Kg/h 230

Hydraulic throughout capacity of each press m3/h 7.5

Polyelectrolyte dosage Kg/ton DS 5-10

Solids capture rate % 97

Dewatered sludge cake flow m3/d 58

Dewatered sludge cake % 12-18



ESIA FOR AWALI-BEIRUT WATER CONVEYER PROJECTANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES

4. ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES4.1INTRODUCTION

This section is based on the alternative schemes presented in the initial EIA report date April 1998 and the updated feasibility study submitted by Montgomery Watson April 2010.An evaluation of alternative schemes to the provision of a major new water supply source for the Greater Beirut from the Karaoun Lake and Awali Rivers is given hereunder.

4.2NO PROJECT OPTION

Greater Beirut is likely to face serious water shortage in the near future as demand surpasses supply. Climate change may even further exacerbate this problem. If additional sources of water supply are not identified and provided in the near future, the following environmental and socio-economic impacts are expected to arise:

Increase pressure on groundwater wells leading to increased salt water intrusion in the coastal aquifers

Increased shortage periods of water in Beirut, particularly in the summer period, possibly leading to more conflicts among water users in Greater Beirut

Not meeting Millennium Development Goals of access to water

Accordingly, the No Project alternative is considered to be not viable, as it would have severe environmental and socio-economic impacts in Beirut.

4.3FORMULATION OF OPTIONS

4.3.1 Constraints

Earlier Feasibility studies of 1972 and 1984 determined that the abstraction and delivery points of the project should be:

- Abstraction at the construction adit of the Joun HEP plant tunnel prior to the HEP; and

- Delivery to the southern end of the twin 700mm diameter transmission mains at Khalde (25km to the north) to supply reservoirs in west Beirut.

In addition the feasibility study of 1994 identified a suitable location at Hadath for a new storage reservoir to serve East Beirut and the Southern Suburbs. The location and elevation had to achieve the following requirements:

- Gravity Feed from Awali to Hadath;- Equalizing supply and demand over a period of high consumption;- Furnishing water for such emergencies as accidental breakdowns;- Supplying water to the northern and southern suburbs, and the Achrafieh

reservoirs;- Supplying the reservoirs at Tallet El Khayat by a connection to the existing 700mm

diameter pipe at Galerie Semaan (in the event of supply shortage) to the existing

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twin 700mm diameter pipes (one of which is conveying water from the Damour wells); and

- Providing to regions currently supplied from other sources in case of failure of shutdown of these sources.

The development of the proposed project has been based on these requirements.

4.3.2 Water Transmission Options

Three conceptual options were identified during the various past studies to convey from Joun to Khalde without undue head loss. These are:

- A pipeline following the hydraulic gradient around the hillsides –knows as the “hillside Route”;

- A tunnel through the hills following the hydraulic gradient with inverted siphons or pipe bridges to cross valleys as necessary; and

- A low elevation, high pressure pipeline following the coastal highway (which had already been partially completed as far as Damour and was due to be extended southwards).

The first option was ruled out immediately as being prohibitively expensive. The other two options were carried forward to more detailed considerations in the 1994 feasibility study. The analysis was based on two different routes and the coastal pipeline with three alternative pipeline materials. These are discussed in sections 4.4.2.1 and 4.4.2.2

4.3.3 Water Treatment Options

It was proposed in the 1994 feasibility study that the water treatment should be designed to meet European Union standards as minimum at that date. The new feasibility study (MWH, 2010) revises the treatment process so that the new water guidelines and standards issued by the European Council and also the World Health Organization (WHO) are fulfilled.The hydraulic head limitations of the project assisted in determining the location and elevation of the WTW. In the 1994 feasibility study, 4 (four) locations for the WTW were considered, these are – Joun Adit, Jebel es Sarris, Khalde and Ouardaniye.The fourth site was selected mainly to allow gravity flow through and onwards from the WTW.The detailed analysis of water treatment locations and treatment options are set out in section 4.4.3.

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4.4DETAILED EVALUATION

4.4.1 Location of Treatment Plant

Four sites were considered in the 1994 Feasibility Study. Their characteristics are summarized in Table 4-42.

Table 4-42 Characteristics of the four proposed WTW sites

NAME LOCATION SITE

DESCRIPTION

LAND

AREA

(HA)

EXCAVATIO

N COST

($M) IN

1998

LAND

ACQUISITI

ON COST

(1998)

LAND

ACQUISITI

ON COST

(2010)

Joun Adit 200m West

of Joun

tunnel Adit

In a valley with

steep slopes and

poor access

6.4 – 8.5 25.9 – 35.7 3$/m2 75$/m2

Jebel

es Sarris

1.5km NW of

Joun tunnel

Adit

Moderate cross

slopes with good

access but

requiring road

relocation

4.8 – 6.4 8.3 – 11.4 25$/m2 100$/m2

Ouardaniye 5km NW of

Joun tunnel

Adit

Moderate cross

slopes and good

access

4.8 – 6.2 2.3 – 9.4 25$/m2 100$/m2

Khalde 25km north

of Joun

tunnel

Moderate cross

slopes and good

access

4.8 -6.3 7.0 – 9.4 110$/m2 500$/m2

All four sites had similar foundation and geological conditions, and would require extensive rock excavation. Approximate excavation costs were estimated in the 1998 EIA report based on required volume and depth of excavation Cost of excavation at Joun and Jebel es Sarris turned be more expensive than that at Ouardaniye and Khalde and thus effectively ruled them out.Both Ouardaniye and Khalde sites were considered ideally suited for the construction of the WTW.The Khalde site is ideal in terms of elevation (to suit an entirely gravity project), space, and topography (a reasonably gently sloping site). However, expansion of the city over years has made it relatively expensive in terms of land purchase cost, and plots in Khalde area are being sold for private housing development. The prime benefits of this site are:

- The close proximity to Beirut where the water is needed; and- The reduced risk of pollution of treated water en route from Joun by sitting the

plant as close as possible to Beirut.The Ouardaniye site offers the same essential requirements of appropriate elevation, sufficient area and suitable topography. The prime benefits of this site are that it is:

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- Considerably cheaper than Khalde in terms of current land values (US$100/m2

against US$500/m2);- As easily accessible as the Khalde site on completion of the coastal highway; and- Able to serve the coastal communities between Ouardaniye and Beirut from the

main transmission line between the two. This would be particularly simple in the case of the Pipeline Option and achievable in the case of Tunnel Option 2 (see below) through connection at the Damour Valley and other valley crossings.

4.4.2 Means of Transmission

Tunnel options (see Figure 4-9) were developed and evaluated to suit potential WTW sites:- Tunnel Option 1: Tunnel form Joun to possible Khalde WTW; and- Tunnel Option 2: Tunnel from Joun to possible Ouardaniye WTW plus tunnel from

Ouardaniye WTW to KhaldeA potential benefit of the pipeline option was that, provided that the water in the pipeline had been treated, it would be comparatively simpler to connect to it for supplies to coastal communities en route to Khalde for treatment, a more expensive site for the works. For topographical reasons a pipeline from Joun to Ouardaniye was impractical; this section must be tunneled. Only one pipeline option was therefore investigated:

- Pipeline Option: Tunnel from Joun to Ouardaniye WTW plus coastal pipeline from Ouardaniye WTW to Khalde.

4.4.2.1 Considerations for Tunnel Alignment and Construction

The tunneled options have additional advantages. Tunneling through the hills permits the shortest route towards the end point of the project. The tunnel is also able to follow the hydraulic gradient line with less design constraints, with the exception of deep valley crossings. Due also to the minimum economical size of a tunnel (determined as 2.8m internal diameter in the 1994 feasibility study), the tunneled options also provide additional capacity for any future expansion, and some degree of storage within the tunnel space itself. Most importantly, the tunneled solutions have a significantly smaller surface disruption footprint.In both tunnel options mentioned above, the alignments were selected to assure, as much as possible, a straight drive on a uniform free-draining gradient in the direction of flow. Both routes deviate eastward from the most direct alignment in order to pass under the many deep valleys, while maintaining a minimum cover of 10m to allow for superficial deposits in the valley bottoms. This also allowed for an adequate safety margin, assuming that a larger tunnel be adopted because of the specific viability of a larger tunnel boring machine (TBM).Consideration of the construction methods of the tunnels reviewed the options of drill and blast against TBMs. The latter were considered more viable because of the lengths of the drives, because they would give rise to smaller quantities of excavation, and since they would require the use of less concrete for lining. TBM would also enable much more rapid progress to be made, with a consequent overall reduction in the construction time. Drill and blast would only be used in establishing the TBMs in the first 100m of each drive.

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Option 1 would give rise to significant quantities of soil at the start of the tunnel drives at the Joun and Khalde with a smaller amount at Damour, whereas Option 2 would result in most spoil at Ouardaniye and Khalde and a lesser amount at Joun and Damour.The tunnels would be lined with concrete and an impervious membrane to prevent leakage in either direction. The tunnels will be drilled entirely through limestone, some of which is karstic. However, all proposed tunnel sections are above water table and hence groundwater is not expected to cause any problem while drilling. A steel liner with mortar lining was proposed in the shafts and bottom section of the Damour crossing, as well as sections with minimal ground cover (such as the valley crossings and the first and last 100m of horizontal drive from the natural ground surface).Consideration was given to the need to provide a separate 25mm thick internal lining to the tunnel from Ouardaniye WTW to Khalde in Option2 as it would be conveying treated water. However, the external impermeable membrane already proposed as part of the tunnel structure was considered adequate to prevent infiltration of contaminated water. After initial wetting, any contamination from the concrete itself was considered not to be significant and therefore need for special protection was deemed unnecessary.Several factors had to be taken into consideration in the tunneled concept, such as the method for crossing deep valleys (pipe bridges, inverted siphons, etc). It was determined during the options development that a tunneled inverted siphon would be best, in order to maintain the integrity of the tunneled solution. The tunnel alignment was adjusted in designs developed in 2001 to minimize the inverted siphon drops. The alternatives of constructing this crossing using deep trench excavation (involving a river diversion) or tunneling were evaluated. IT was considered unlikely to be viable to set up TBMs for the two short lengths of low level tunnel linking the vertical legs of the siphon to the crossing (only 900m and 400m respectively on north and south sides). Drill and blast were therefore envisaged to be used at this location.

4.4.2.2 Considerations to Pipeline

The use of the coastal highway as a route for the pipeline from Ouardaniye to Khalde is based on planned provision of service roads on either sides of the main carriageway. Land has already been acquired for these and the pipeline could be located under them without the need for additional land purchase, and without the severe disruption of traffic which construction in the existing carriageway would bring.The pipeline option has some critical technical disadvantages. These are listed below:

- Security concerns given that an exposed rural pipeline would be very obviously vulnerable to tampering and intentional acts of damage or foreign aggression;

- Exposure to damage from Seismic activity given that the pipe route is through seismically active zone;

- High pressure of the pipelines (+25 bar rating requirement) due to elevation differences could result in very severe consequences in the event of a pipe burst.

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Any failure in one pipe could damage the adjacent pipe (of the twin pipes), causing complete cessation of service. Pipe failure would also threaten local infrastructure including the coastal freeway and adjacent properties and endanger residents;

- Extensive expropriations and service corridor requirements particularly given strong urban development especially towards the end of the pipe route; and

- Aesthetic and Environmental implications due to the extensive construction through rural and natural areas.

Three materials (steel, ductile iron and pre-stressed concrete) were identified as feasible for the use of the pipeline option and were therefore further evaluated by addressing issues such as flow regulation, surge control, leakage control, corrosion and durability, and the different construction methods and operational problems which could result.Concrete pipes were the cheapest option as they were evaluated taking into consideration the potential for local production. However their bursting failure mechanism (sudden brittle failure) deemed them undesirable for the proposed application. The non-brittle Steel and Ductile Iron pipes proved technically more appropriate given that they would exhibit puncture and leakage type failure mechanisms which could be controlled and would not cause catastrophic failure. Steel & iron pipes therefore adequately address the third point of the disadvantages of pipelines as listed above. They are however, more costly even without considering the cost of extensive expropriations and land acquisition. They also remain vulnerable to the remaining concerns regarding pipeline options.

4.4.2.3 Access Roads

Based on the proposed use of the TBMs for the main tunnel drives, Option 1 would require the construction of temporary access roads to the working areas at El Labbiye on the southern side of the Damour Valley and to Joun. Access to the Khalde WTW and to the tunnel working site would be via existing roads.In addition to the upgraded permanent access road to the proposed site of the Ouardaniye WTW, Option 2 would require the construction of access roads to the adit at the low point of the siphon in Wadi Abou Yabes between Joun and Ouardaniye, and to EL Labbiye on the southern side of the Damour Valley. Upgraded existing roads would be used for access to the working sites at the other locations.The Pipeline Option also required a temporary access road to the adit at the low point of the siphon in Wadi Abou Yabes between Joun and Ouardaniye and an upgraded permanent access road to the proposed site of the Ouardaniye WTW.

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Figure 4-9 Altenartive Scheme Options

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4.4.3 Water Treatment Process

The ability to achieve a guideline value within a drinking-water supply depends on a number of factors, including:

The concentration of the chemical in the raw water;Control measures employed throughout the drinking-water system;Nature of the raw water (groundwater or surface water, presence of natural background and other components); andTreatment processes already installed (if any).

A qualitative ranking of treatment processes based on their degree of technical complexity is given in Table 4-43 below. The higher the ranking, the more complex the process is in terms of plant and/or operation. In general, higher rankings are also associated with higher costs.

Table 4-43 Ranking of Treatment Processes

RANKING TREATMENT PROCESSES

1Simple Chlorination

Plain filtration (rapid sand, slow sand)

2Pre-Chlorination plus filtration

Aeration

3Chemical Coalgulation

Process optimization for control of disinfection by-products

4Granular activated carbon (GAC)

Treatment ion exchange

5 Ozonation

6Advanced Oxidation Processes

Membrane treatment

The approach taken in defining the required treatment process was oriented towards the necessity of treating variable raw water quality due to seasonal changes. During the summer months of dry season the raw water is suitable for direct filtration whereas during the winter months, coagulation, flocculation and sedimentation will be required. For this purpose, the previously proposed design allows this unit to be bypassed and to be fed directly to filtration. Micro-coagulation and flocculation have also been foreseen during direct filtration. The preliminary design report defines the treatment scheme as:

- Coagulation;- Flocculation;- Sedimentation;- Ozone oxidation (defined to be implemented in the future);- 2nd stage coagulation/flocculation;- Rapid sand filtration;

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- Final disinfection;- pH adjustment;- Ammoniation;- Sludge to be disposed to the wadi or to the sea;- Dirty backwash collection.

The above scheme was revised in the new feasibility study mainly to fulfill the Lebanese standards of drinking water and those of the European Union and the World Health Organization. This is addressed in details in section 3.4.3of the Project Description

4.4.3.1 Sludge Disposal

An assessment of a wide range of sludge disposal options was made. These are summarized in the following table:

Table 4-44 Sludge Disposal Alternatives

OPTION SUB-OPTION

A. Marine Disposal

1. Transport of raw sludge by terrestrial pipeline westwards to the mid-point of Ouardaniye Bay, plus about 2.4 km submarine pipeline to 30m water depth.

2. Transport of raw sludge by terrestrial pipeline west-south-west to Ras Sahare, plus 900m submarine pipeline to 30m water depth.

B. Disposal at the Ras Damour Power Station.

1. Dewatering of raw sludge at the WTW; transport of dewatered sludge by truck to the Power Station and incineration at the latter.

2. Transport of raw sludge by pipeline to the Power Station; dewatering and incineration at the latter.

3. Transport of raw sludge by pipeline to the Power Station; injection into cooling water outfall.

C. Disposal at a nearby cement plant.

1. Dewatering of raw sludge at the WTW; transport of dewatered sludge by truck to the cement plant.

2. Transport of raw sludge by pipeline to the cement plant; dewatering and incineration at the latter.

D. Disposal to local quarries, with possible re-use thereafter.

1. Dewatering of raw sludge at the WTW; transport of dewatered sludge by truck to the quarry and use is for restoration.

2. Dewatering of raw sludge at the WTW; transport of dewatered sludge by truck to the quarry. Buffer storage there, with later use in road construction.

E. Disposal to landfill

1. Dewatering of raw sludge at the WTW; transport of dewatered sludge by truck to an existing landfill.

2. Development of a purpose-built contained landfill to accept the sludge. Dewatering of raw sludge at the WTW; transport of dewatered sludge by truck to the landfill.

F. Disposal to agricultural land.

1. Dewatering of raw sludge at the WTW; transport of dewatered sludge by truck to the application site. Application by surface spreading.

2. Transport of raw sludge by truck to the application site. Application by sub-surface injection.

G. Return the raw sludge to Joun.

1. Return of raw sludge by pipeline to Joun and injection into the flows upstream of the existing off-take.

2. Return of raw sludge by pipeline to Joun and injection into Awali River, downstream of the Joun works.

Option D was selected by the designer as the most viable option which is the disposal of sludge to restore local quarries (e .g. the small quarry west of the Ouardaniye WTW) with possible future use

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of the sludge as a construction material represented the best option for sludge disposal, provided that care will be taken to avoid groundwater contamination. Since this is might still have implications in groundwater quality, it is better recommended to dispose the sludge into engineered landfills.A detailed consideration of this evaluation is given in Appendix D.Option EvaluationFrom the above discussed options of transmission and treatment plant location, five overall project options were identified Table 4-45. These were evaluated based on:

- Cost- Security- Durability- Maintenance- Operation flexibility- Storage (surplus capacity in tunnel)- General environmental impact; and- Potential for future expansion.

Table 4-45 Overall Project Options

OPTION OPTION NAME DESCRIPTION

1 Tunnel 1 Tunnel form Joun direct to a WTW at Khalde with pipeline transfer to

reservoirs in Beirut

2 Tunnel 2 Tunnel form Joun direct to Khalde via a WTW in Ouardaniye, with

pipeline transfer to reservoirs

3 Concrete Pipeline Tunnel from Joun to a WTW at Ouardaniye thence by concrete

pipeline to Khalde with pipeline transfer to reservoirs in Beirut

4 Ductile Iron Pipeline Tunnel from Joun to a WTW at Ouardaniye thence by ductile iron

pipeline to Khalde with pipeline transfer to reservoirs in Beirut

5 Steel Pipeline Tunnel from Joun to a WTW at Ouardaniye thence by steel pipeline

to Khalde with pipeline transfer to reservoirs in Beirut

4.4.4 Cost

It is concluded from the update feasibility study that the cost of the tunnel option project is today at US$ 278.9M, while the cost of the best coastal pipeline option is estimated at US$ 325.5M. These estimates exclude land acquisition costs; however include contingencies, design costs, and site supervision cost. The increase in estimated cost compared to the 1994 estimate can be attributed to the following:

- Project Scope expansion to include two new reservoirs at Hadath and Hazmieh and associated pipe work.

- Natural Economic Inflation. As illustrated above, the tunneled option with WTW located at Ouardaniye remains the most technically and economically superior option at the present time. This is the option selected by the




1994 feasibility study, and which was later progressed to design and tendering in 2001. Many of the same factors that justified this option in 1994 are even more compelling now than they were at the time of the original feasibility study, due to rapid urbanization in the project area over the last 16 years.

4.4.5 Security

In terms of security, a tunnel is less vulnerable than a pipeline and is better able to withstand earthquakes. Although velocity limiting valves will be installed on pipeline to shut down in the event of a major failure, the high pressure at which it would operate poses a damage risk to the highway and adjacent property (as well as to highway users). Supply disruption during emergency repair would be significant. Pre-stressed concrete would be more at risk than steel or ductile iron owing to its greater susceptibility to a sudden burst failure and the fact that the required diameter/pressure combination is on the limit of current manufacturing technology.

4.4.6 Maintenance

A planned internal inspection of the system every five years is envisaged. All options contain a tunnel element, and a planned 2 day shutdown is therefore a common feature. A pipeline is more susceptible to unforeseen maintenance but twinning provides some operational flexibility.

4.4.7 Operational Flexibility

The tunnels for this project cannot be constructed economically at less than about 3m diameter as it is difficult to remove spoil or bring in concrete for the lining with less working space. Hydraulically, the tunnels will therefore be oversized. The spare capacity can, however, be used to advantage as there is shortage of reservoir capacity in Beirut. Alternatively, increasing water demand may eventually necessitate future expansion of the project to supply 9m3/s. the tunnel options will accommodate both these aspects.

4.4.8 Environmental Impact

Environmentally, it was judged in the feasibility study that the construction of the pipeline option would have a greater adverse impact than both tunnel options.

4.5SELECTION OF PREFERRED OPTION

Option Tunnel 2 was preferred for the following reasons:- Lowest overall cost- Greatest security in terms of:- Least vulnerability to deliberate damage- Best resistance to earthquakes- Least risk of leakage and consequential damage- Greatest durability and design life- Lowest maintenance requirements (and thus minimized supply disruption)- Easier to supply the coastal strip from Ouardaniye WTW rather than a Khalde WTW




- Spare hydraulic capacity available:- To supplement inadequate reservoir capacity in Beirut- To allow for future expansion of required; and- Least environmental impact during construction


FINAL REPORT COUNCIL FOR DEVELOPMENT AND RECONSTRUCTION (CDR)ESIA FOR AWALI-BEIRUT WATER CONVEYER PROJECT ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL BASELINE

5. ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL BASELINE5.1INTRODUCTION

The baseline data presented in this section were reproduced based on desk studies and the use of available information in the initial EIA study (Montgomery Watson, 1998) except for the noise, ecological and socio-economic parts for which ELARD team has conducted extensive field surveys to gather relevant updated data.

5.2CLIMATE AND AIR QUALITY

The Awali project covers an area that extends from the hillsides of western Lebanon, to the south of Beirut. An onshore south-westerly wind from the adjacent Mediterranean Sea affects this area most of the year. The high reconstruction activities and the high levels of traffic movements in Beirut and its suburbs are causing poor atmospheric quality conditions in this area.

The Climate conditions in this area are those of a typical eastern Mediterranean climate; the rainfall is low and restricted to the period between November and March, and the temperatures are high in summer, but the area is not subject to the cold winter that occurs in Lebanese mountains.

5.3AMBIENT NOISE LEVEL

5.3.1 Data Collection

Noise level measurements were conducted by ELARD team to capture to the extent possible the baseline noise levels at different locations of the project, with due consideration of activities with potential noise generation as well as location of possible sensitive receptors. Table 5-46 shows the locations where noise levels were measured, the date and time of the measurements, duration of measurement in addition to some relevant comments. The noise measurements were conducted using a Lutron Sound Level Meter (Figure 1), SL-4010 with accuracy of +/- 0.1dB. The timings of the measurements were selected in a way to be representative for the location. For instance, in Ouardaniye, where there are currently several sources of noise generation (primarily from existing traffic), three time ranges were selected (off-peak early morning, noon, and afternoon), whereas in other more remote locations, one time period was assumed to be sufficient to depict average noise levels in the area.

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Table 5-46 Noise Level Monitoring Locations and Methodology

LOCATION NOISE MEASUREMENT SURVEY TYPE ANTICIPATED NOISE GENERATION POTENTIAL/SENSITIVE RECEPTORS

DATE TIME INTERVAL

Ouardaniye

WTW

17.04.2010 6:59AM – 10:10 AM 10-minute intervals with noise levels recorded every 1 minute

Noise is expected to be generated during WTW construction and operational phases.

11:30 AM– 1:00 PM

4:40 – 7:00 pm

Nahr el Damour Siphon/Washout

15.04.2010 6:55 AM– 9:00 AM 5-minute intervals with noise levels recorded every 1 minute

Minor concern of noise. Noise generated from the construction phase only.

Khalde Distribution /Connection Chamber

14.04.2010 6:42 AM– 9:00 AM 10-minute intervals with noise levels recorded every 5 minutes

Minor concern of noise. Noise generated from the construction phase.

Hadath 90

Reservoirs

16.04.2010 7:00 AM– 7:43 AM 10-minute intervals with noise levels recorded every 1 minute


Hazmieh 90 Reservoirs 16.04.2010 8:17 AM – 9:17 AM 10-minute intervals with noise levels recorded every 1 minute


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ESIA FOR AWALI-BEIRUT WATER CONVEYER PROJECTENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL BASELINE

Figure 5-10 Noise measurements at the Khalde distribution and connection chambers

While all locations are expected to affect ambient noise levels during construction, the only source of noise during the operational phase is the water treatment works (WTW) in the Ouardaniye village.

The Nahr el Damour washout and Khalde distribution chamber were surveyed in the morning for two hours. Hadath 90 and Hazmieh 90 reservoirs were surveyed in the morning for one hour each because they are close to a major army barracks and to the presidential palace respectively, and army patrols would not allow a longer survey to be conducted, although more periods of measurements during the day would better depict noise levels particularly in Hazmieh 90 location, which is close to a major highway.

For the most part of the study area, the landscape along the water tunnel route is generally limestone rocks of the Sannine Formation (Cenomanian age). The terrain is unlikely to have any considerable effect on transmission of noise during construction. The construction works on the portals, washouts and chambers is likely to cause some increase in noise levels only during the construction phase; after construction is completed, noise levels should return to current ambient levels.

5.3.2 Results

Ouardaniye WTW

The Ouardaniye site lies about 1 km from Ouardaniye village, south of the Sibline Cement Factory, between the valleys of Ouadi Aabaid and Saquiet Ouadi Baraz. The average noise level in the Ouardaniye WTW is 52dBA, with maximum values reaching up to 72dBA and minimum being 43dBA. Higher values are mainly associated to passing traffic, mosques call for prayer, air traffic and the local Sibline Cement Factory which is nearby on the opposite side of the valley.

Damour Washout

The Damour washout site lies between the Mhanna restaurant and the bridge south of Damour River. The average noise level in the Nahr el Damour Siphon/Washout is 66 dBA, with maximum reaching up to 86 dBA and minimum of 48 dBA. Noise levels are mainly associated to the river flow and passing cars and trucks.

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Khalde Distribution/Connection Chamber

The Khalde site lies to the North of Deauville Hotel, facing a military base. The noise level measurements were taken to the north of the site because it could not be taken in front of the military base for security reasons.

The average noise level in the Khalde Distribution /Connection Chamber is 64 dBA, with maximum reaching up to 88 dBA and minimum being 53dBA. Noise levels are associated to passing traffic, helicopters, airplanes and splashing sea waves.

Hadath 90 Reservoir

The Hadath 90 reservoir site lies about 500m NW of the Warwar barracks and approximately 200m NE of Regis Libanais building. The average noise level in the Hadath 90 Reservoir is 60 dBA, with maximum reaching up to 82 dBA and minimum being 42 dBA. Noise levels are mainly associated to passing car traffic.

Hazmieh 90 Reservoir

The Hazmieh 90 reservoir zone lies about 100m south of Hypermarket Bou Khalil off the Siyad roundabout. The average noise level in Hazmieh 90 Reservoir is 70 dBA, with maximum reaching up to 88 dBA and minimum being 55 dBA. Noise levels are associated to the proximity to a major highway.

5.3.3 Discussion

In any given setting, factors such as the frequency and magnitude of environmental noise may vary considerably over the course of the day. With regards to the study areas, the proposed water tunnel stretches primarily along residential areas with some construction sites or commercial activities or located near a road and some rural residential areas. As a result, noise sources are predominantly human based from passing traffic and some human activities such as aviation.

The existing ambient noise levels recorded near most of the tunnel portals and outlets averaged between 60 and 65 dBA. Therefore ambient noise levels already exceed allowed noise levels as per Lebanese legislation (Decision 52/1 of 1996) Table 5-47 . Therefore contractors and operators of the project must take strict noise control measures to avoid significant impacts related to elevated noise in the project area.

Table 5-47 National Maximum allowable noise levels and permissible occupational Noise Exposure standards according to MoE Decision 52/1 of

1996.

REGION TYPE

LIMIT FOR NOISE LEVEL DB(A)

DAY TIME

(7 AM- 6 PM)

EVENING TIME

(6 PM- 10 PM)

NIGHT TIME

(10 PM- 7AM)

Residential areas with some construction 50-60 45-55 40-50

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sites or commercial activities or located near a road

Urban residential areas 45-55 40-50 35-45

Industrial areas 60-70 55-65 50-60

Rural residential areas 35 – 45 30 – 40 25 – 35

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5.4GEOLOGY AND SOILS

The geological information in this section is mainly obtained from the Feasibility report by Montgomery and Watson (1994) and from Geological maps (Saida and Beirut sheets) developed by Dubertret in 1945 at a scale of 1:50,000, and Lebanon sheet developed by Dubertret in 1955 at a scale of 1:200,000.

5.4.1 Stratigraphy

The tunnel passes mainly through the upper and the middle Sannine-Maameltein Formation of Cenomanin and Turonian ages respectively. This formation is mainly composed of hard massive limestone and dolomitic limestone rocks. Exposures of this formation cover most of the study area with a total thickness of around 800 m. Only the upper part of this formation is exposed in the study area.

Conformably overlying this formation is the Chekka Formation of Senonian age. It is mainly composed of thinly bedded soft marl and marly limestone rocks. It is mostly exposed in the areas surrounding Joun village.

In the valleys, especially the Damour valley and in sporadic thin exposures, the above mentioned formations are covered unconformably by Quaternary deposits mainly gravel, sand and sandy clay. Those deposits are relatively thin except in Damour valley, were they are predicted to reach a thickness of around 40 m (Feasibility Report, 1994).

5.4.2 Structure

Structurally the area is located few kilometers west of the Coastal Flexure which is the possible extension of the Roum Fault (Nemer, 1999). The flexure extends from Chhim in the southern part to Baawerta and Aaramoun in the central and northern parts of the study area respectively. The Flexure has steeply dipping beds which gentles as we approach the study area. The general inclination of the beds in the study area is around 20˚ dipping towards the west.

The tunnel passes through at least 6 secondary scale faults. They are the E-W and WNW-ESE faults. These faults have both vertical and horizontal displacements with disturbed zones of up to 50m. The disturbed zones are of highly fractured and brecciated rocks, with fine grained gauge and red clay material. Examples of these faults are the Damour River Fault, Damour Village Fault, Barja Fault, and Dalhoun Fault. The Damour crossing and Siphon cuts through the Damour Fault zone.

Other tertiary scale faults and fractures are present in the study area but their nature and effect on such structure is not clear. Jointing of such hard limestone rocks is also not clear.

Recent seismic activities have been reported in the area. Evidence of such activity is from Bisri earthquake in the 1956 with an epicenter located 4 km east of Joun village. The calculated magnitude was approximately 5.8 (Feasibility Report, 1994). The expected ground acceleration in the area is approximately 0.2 g (Harajli, 1994).

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Figure 5-11 Geological Map (Source, Duberet 1955, 1/200,000)

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5.5 WATER RESOURCES

The Sannine-Maameltein Formation is the major coastal aquifer in the study area. It is karstic in nature with tertiary porosity meaning that groundwater is flowing mainly in fissures, fractures and conduits. There are no permanent springs issuing from this formation except close to the coastal area and mainly below sea level in the form of submarine springs (Feasibility Report, 1994).

The position of the water table is closely related to the base level which is the sea level and it gently rises inland with a mean gradient of 11.5 m/km. The depth of the water table was determined from groundwater wells (Feasibility Report, 1994).

It is believed that the proposed tunnel lays entirety in the vadose zone way above the water table. However, water flowing from the surface in fractures, conduits, channels, caves and fracture zones is likely to be encountered in more than one place along the tunnel with water discharging at a rate of approximately 5 L/s (Feasibility Report, 1994). Dissolution cavities of up to 3 meters wide are also likely to be encountered.

It is worth noting that dissolution and karstification in fractured zones along major and minor faults is likely to be encountered during tunneling and this karstification has resulted in open and/or partially filled large cavities with red clay and clayey sand.

Contaminated groundwater might also be possibly encountered during tunneling knowing that the tunnel will pass underneath residential areas. Septic tanks are one of the possible sources of such contamination. The tunnel also passes few kilometers down gradient from the Naame Landfill and possible leaks from this landfill might be encountered during tunneling works.

This water quality has been addressed in 3.4 in the Project Description

5.6LAND USE AND LANDSCAPE

The land use along the areas of the Awali project varies between the hills and the coastal planes. The expansion of the coastal communities and the extension of the urban area from Beirut southwards also affect the land use along the project areas.

Photographs in Appendix C have been provided to illustrate the nature of the landscape at the locations of the various project elements.

The site of the Joun flow regulation structure lies at the side of a relatively steep valley. The only access road that leads to the existing tunnel adit was done during former works for the already existing power station tunnel. This road passes through terraced fields (some of which are used) and rough ground. An old spoil heap also exists in the site below the adit from the previous works.

The Wadi Abou Yabes Washout site lies in an isolated hillside location. Large aggregates works with associated polluting emissions are taking place at its lower end.

The proposed site for the Ouardaniye water treatment works lies in an open hillside location, gently sloping to the west. It is formed of rough, stony ground with a small Wadi along the northern side.

There is no major residential activity in the site area but greenhouses are very common in and around the site.

One frame for a house has been constructed at the site since this was first suggested as the site for the water treatment works. The access road to the site will follow existing roads. The Wadi

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discharges into Ouardaniye bay on the Mediterranean coast. This bay has a wide sandy beach, with rocky headlands to the north and south and it is popular for recreational activities, including bathing, with associated facilities being provided.

The inverted Siphon at Damour will pass under a deep, narrow valley. The Damour washout site lies in a very beautiful area in the valley, just next to the river where two restaurants and a picnic space are situated. Access roads to the shafts will cross virgin wooded hillsides.

The Khalde surge shaft and outlet portal sites also consist of open rocky hillside sites having a steep slope to the west. They lie adjacent to the new, high quality residential properties of some two to four stories.

The pipeline route from the outlet portal starts with a regraded, existing road, and continues along the side of the new coastal highway.

The Khalde flow distribution chamber will be constructed on a derelict site between the new highway and the old coastal road. Offshore, the coastal beach is used for some recreational activities.

The pipelines from the Khalde flow measurement, distribution and connection chambers to the proposed Hadath and Hazmieh reservoirs will pass from the old coast road to the main Chouwaifat road uphill to the reservoirs. The first 2 Km of this path consist of a busy, dual carriage way. The remaining part of the path consists of a standard width road. This path is surrounded by residential and industrial properties along its sides for most of its length.

The proposed Hadath 125 reservoir site consists of a terraced sloping valley, bordered by new apartment blocks to the north, a military barracks to the south, and a church and cemetery to the west.

The proposed Hadath 90 reservoir site lies on waste ground to the west of the military barrack and to the east of a tobacco manufacturing facility (REGI).

Further north the pipeline would pass through increasingly high class apartment residential blocks, generally along dual carriageways width roads.

5.7BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT

Field visits for 12 sites along the tunnel path were conducted on the 13th and 21st of April 2010 to conduct rapid ecological assessments Table 5-48. At each site, existing plant species were recorded and documented in terms of their local and global significance.

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Table 5-48 Rapid Ecological Assessment Sites

NO LOCATION

1 Joun Regulation Structure

2 Washout – Wadi Abou Yabes

3 Ouardaniye WTW

4 Nahr Damour Siphon/Washout

5 Khalde Surge Shaft

6 Khalde Tunnel Portal

7 Khalde Flow measurement and sampling chamber

8 Pipeline – Khalde Portal to Khadle Flow Distribution Chamber

9 Khalde Distribution / Connection Chambers

10 Hadath 125 Reservoir

11 Hadath 90 Reservoir

12 Hazmieh 90 Reservoir

5.7.1 General Ecology

According to a study conducted by the Ministry of Environment (MoE, 1996), the 12 inspected sites are within the Inferior Mediterranean or Thermomediterranean zones on a calcareous soil in the Carob- Mastic series (for the majority of the sites), the Quercus calliprinos Webb. series (Nahr Damour Siphon/Washout) and Pinus brutia Ten series for the Khalde Flow measurement and tunnel chamber.

The trees formation in the majority of the sites (Carob- Mastic series) take the form of garigues composed mainly by Pistacia lentiscus L., Myrtus communis L., and less frequently by Ceratonia

siliqua L.

This series is sometimes presented by Pinus halepensis Mill. and Pinus brutia Ten.

The first degradation stage of this series is composed by tall garigues dominated by Calicotome

villosa (Vahl) Link and in localized areas by Rhus tripartita (Ucria) D.C.

In areas that are more degraded, garigues of Poterium spinosum L. and Phlomis viscosa Poir. are present in rocky places.

In Quercus calliprinos Webb. series, the tree formation is represented by Quercus calliprinos Webb. with or without Pinus brutia Ten. In both cases Ceratonia siliqua L., Pistacia lentiscus L. and Myrtus communis L. are relatively abundant.

In the Pinus brutia Ten series, the conifers Pinus brutia Ten., Pinus halepensis Mill. and Cupressus

sempervirens L. are the most abundant formation. Many other trees or shrubs are present. They




include: Gonocytisus pterocladus Boiss., Satureia thymbra L., Lygia aucheri (Meissn.) Boiss., Anarrhinum orientale Benth., Cytisopsis dorycniifolia Jaub. et Spach. Etc.

5.7.2 Sites Description

As a part of this Environmental Assessment, rapid ecological surveys were conducted at each site, following the scoping exercise for the specific elements where surface activities are considered. The identification of the species was done according to the “Nouvelle Flore du Liban et de la Syrie, Mouterde” (1966, 1970, 1983).

In general, the different places of construction do not affect any area of special concern, such as those designated as having national or international importance (e.g. world heritages, wetlands, biosphere reserve, wildlife refuge, or protected areas), or lead to the extinction of endangered and endemic species; However very important plant species were found in some sites. An inventory of the species found was made site per site. The inventory listed only the species pertaining to this particular ecological stage and whose habitat corresponds more or less to the local settings. Many of the identified species are ornamental, medicinal or edible in nature.

It should be mentioned that this report was prepared after a visit to each site (13 or 21 of April 2010). Therefore the information presented in this section should not be considered comprehensive and exhaustive. However it provides a representative overview of the flora biodiversity in each site.

Joun Regulation Structure

At this site, a chamber (22m*10.5m) will be constructed. This site is small in size and located at the side of a relatively steep valley. This site is very degraded, with very common species including Calicotome villosa (Vahl) Link, Poterium spinosum L., Phlomis viscosa Poir., Nerium oleander L., Inula viscosa (L.) Aiton, Echinops viscosus DC. and Notobasis syriaca (L.) Cass.

Nearby, Anchusa aegyptiaca (L.) DC. species were found. This is a relatively localized species in Lebanon. No significant impacts on biodiversity are therefore expected at this site.

Photograph 5-1 Joun Regulation Structure Site

Washout – Wadi Abou Yabes

Wadi Abou Yabes is a hillside where a huge quarry is found. The project is therefore taking place in an already significantly degraded environment.




Photograph 5-2 Wadi Abou Yabes Washout Site

Ouardaniye WTW

This is the site where major construction works will take place. While the site can be generally described as typical degraded garigues, several species were found and identified, including one specimen of Rhus tripartita (Ucria) D.C. and one of Quercus calliprinos Webb, 5 species of orchids in large quantities and many species of butterflies.

Given the variety of species found at this site, contractors should develop specific management plans to minimize the impacts on these species. Further recommendations are provided as part of the EMP

Photograph 5-3 Ouardaniye WTW site

Some of the identified species found at this location include:

Ajuga chia Schreb., Allium neapolitanum Cyr., Allium trifoliatum Cyr., Anacamptis pyramidalis (L.) L. C. Rich., Anagallis arvensis L. var. caerulea (L.) Gouan, Anagallis arvensis L. var. phoenicea Gouan, Asparagus acutifolius L., Asphodelus microcarpus Salsm. & Viv., Briza maxima L., Calicotome

villosa (Vahl) Link, Campanula stellaris Boiss., Convolvus sp., Crataegus sp., Daucus carota L. subsp. maximus, Eryngium creticum Lam., Filago arvensis L., Euphorbia thamnoides Boiss., Fumana thymifolia (L.) Spach, Gladiolus segetum Ker-Gawler, Helichrysum sanguineum (L.) Kostel, Poterium spinosum L., Phlomis viscosa Poir., Inula viscosa (L.) Aiton, Lactuca tuberosa Jacq., Micromeria myrtiflolia Boiss. et Hohen, Notobasis syriaca (L.) Cass., Orchis sancta L., Orchis

anatolica Boiss., Orchis coriophora L., Pallenis spinosa (L.) Cass., Phagnalon rupestre (L.) DC., Phillireamedia L., Pistacia palaestina Boiss., Pistacia lentiscus L., Rhamnus punctata Boiss., Rhus

tripartita (Ucria) D.C., Ricotia lunaria (L.) D.C., Serapias vomeracea (Burm.) Briquet, Smilax aspera

L., Stachys arvensis (L.) L., Stachys neurocalycina Boiss., Stachys distans Benth., Tamus communis




L., Teucrium divaricatum Sieb. ex Heldr. subsp. villosum (Celak.) Rech. fil, Teucrium polium L., Tragopogon longirostris Bisch. Ex Schultz Bip., Quercus calliprinos Webb and Verbascum sp.

Nahr Damour Siphon/Washout

Photograph 5-4 Nahr Damour Siphon/Washout Site

The Damour Valley ecosystem has a rich variety of flora. In the river crossing at the selected site, several types of vegetation cover composed mainly by Platanus orientalis L. (Oriental Plane), Alnus orientalis Decne (Oriental Alder), Acer syriacum Boiss. et Gaill. (Syrian Maple), Pistacia lentiscus L. (Mastic), Pistacia palaestina Boiss. (Wild Pistachio), Quercus sp. (Oak), Salix acmophylla Boiss. and Salix alba L. var. micans And. (Willow) were found.

As seen on the maps, the inverted siphon at Damour will pass under a deep, narrow wooded valley and the construction will take place in a relatively small area of the site.

During the site visit, only red highlighted areas in the figure were inspected; the owner of the restaurant did not allow any access to the green section. The red area was much degraded; cement was covering a large surface of the area and many cultivated trees and shrubs (Citrus, Eucalyptus, Melia azederach, Punica granatum, Schinus molle, Hibiscus rosa sinensis) were planted. Many parasitic (Orobanche) plants and the invasive Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle were found in this location.

Even though the sanded(?) area was very much degraded (mainly because of the restaurants), other cultivated plants were found like Mirabilis jalapa L. Another interesting finding in this spot was what could be the endemic Melissa inodora Bornm (There was no flower to be positively sure).

Unfortunately and as mentioned above, the green area could not be inspected. It consists of an old bridge surrounded by many types of vegetation cover. Apparently the restaurant owner is using the place under the bridge to provide some intimacy to special clients. According to the maps, this area will be protected from any construction. As mentioned earlier in this report, a small area of this site will be affected by construction. However special considerations should be taken by contractors to minimize negative impacts while providing benefits to the area. For example, indigenous trees can be planted and the alien species (cultivated trees and plants) can be removed, positively affecting the ecology and ecosystems of this area.




At a distance of the Damour Valley, the 2 Washout locations that will be connected with the Damour location were inspected. The first one (left picture 14) is a degraded land with no important impact on the environment. The second location (right picture 15) a typical dense forest was found with very rich tree vegetation. The entrance to this forest was difficult mainly because of the trees, but the following trees and shrubs were identified: Phillirea media L., Calicotome villosa (Vahl) Link, Pistacia palaestina Boiss., Rhamnus punctata Boiss., Rhamnus alaternus L., Quercus calliprinos Webb., Acer syriacum Boiss. et Gaill., Ceratonia siliqua L., Arbutus andrachne L., Pistacia lentiscus L., Myrtus communis L., Ruscus aculeatus L., Salvia fruticosa Mill., Cistus creticus L. and Cistus salviifolius L.

Even though no major construction in this location is planned, the contractor should be careful in the set up phase and special care should be taken to avoid impacts to the trees

Photograph 5-5 Nahr Damour Washout Site

Photograph 5-6 Nahr Damour Washout Site

Khalde Flow measurement and sampling chamber (site 7)

This was by far the most important ecosystem visited among the 12 selected sites. This site is on the Pinus brutia Ten series, where the conifers Pinus brutia Ten., Pinus halepensis Mill. and Cupressus sempervirens L. are the most abundant formation.

This location is characterized by the richness of its flora and the aged specimens of the trees found. Contractors should prepare a management plan in a way to protect these species and minimize the number of species directly affected by the construction works, even though construction footprint at this location is relatively small.




The trees, shrubs and plants found at this site were mainly:

Pinus brutia Ten., Pinus halepensis Mill., Quercus sp., Pistacia palaestina Boiss., Rhamnus punctata Boiss., Rhamnus alaternus L., Ceratonia siliqua L., Pyrus sp., Phillirea media L., Calicotome villosa (Vahl) Link, Salvia fruticosa Mill., Cistus creticus L., Cistus salviifolius L., Satureia thymbra L., Cytisopsis dorycniifolia Jaub. et Spach., Ononis hirta Desf., Serapias vomeracea (Burm.) Briquet, Centaurium erythraea Refn., Ophrys apifera Hudson., Gladiolus segetum Ker-Gawler, Stachys neurocalycina Boiss., and Stachys distans Benth.

As for the remaining sites (Khalde Surge Shaft, Khalde Tunnel Portal, Pipeline – Khalde Portal to Khadle Flow Distribution Chamber, Khalde Distribution / Connection Chambers, Hadath 125 Reservoir, Hadath 90 Reservoir and Hazmieh 90 Reservoir), all are highly degraded and/or with no important floral biodiversity. Most of them are located in urban areas with limited biodiversity.

Photograph 5-7 Remaining Sites




5.8CULTURAL HERITAGE

A study was commissioned to determine the extent of the archeological sensitivity of the project area during the old EIA study. Particular concerns had been noted in the Khalde and Chouwaifat areas where the research and work was concentrated. It involved a review of published and unpublished archeological material, a brief physical survey of the area and interviews with local inhabitants. The following findings can be highlighted:

In the Joun and Ouardaniye areas, there are no known archeological or historical interests, as would be expected in these rocky localities far from known former habitation.

At the Damour River crossing, there are also no known archeological remains, and no pottery shards have been found there. The tunnel will be located downstream of the meeting of two waters, historically a tourist location.

The most significant known archeological site is the Khan in Khalde area, located along the coast by the end of the runway extension for Beirut airport. Much of the khan has been destroyed by the urban development occurring in the area and the construction of the coastal highway.Three phases of occupation have been identified at this site – classical (Greco Byzantine), Phoenician and Bronze Age. To the west of the pipeline, occurs an extensive necropolis area that contains numerous tombs, related houses, baths and associated facilities.

To the south of the pipeline route in Khalde is a byzantine religious complex, and there are rumors of possible other former settlement in this area. There is no evidence of archeological remains along the Khalde to Chouwaifat pipeline route, and this is confirmed by local anecdotal talks.

If these areas are linked, then there is the possibility that classical remains could be found along the pipeline route near the coast. However, the former housing and road construction in the area would have destroyed most such remains (if they existed), and no evidence of archeological remains was encountered in the trial pit dug in this area for the geotechnical investigation for this project. It is concluded that this specific area contains little of archeological interest.

At the Hadath 125 Reservoir site, cemeteries are situated to the west, across the local road. There are no known archeological interests at the other reservoir sites or adjacent to the

connecting pipeline routes.

5.9SOCIO ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT

A socio-economic survey was conducted with the local authorities in the Project area to map the demographic, social and economic baseline conditions at the level of towns and villages. This document also seeks to identify how the Project’s potential impacts might affect the identified baseline conditions. In other terms, the purpose of the study of socio-economic baseline conditions is to present a basis against which potential socio-economic impacts (whether positive or negative), induced during and as a direct or indirect result of the Project activities, can be assessed.

Data for this section was collected through:



(1) a desk review and consolidation of publicly available information from previous reports and the Ministry of Interior and Municipalities’ web portal on villages,

(2) individual face to face interviews with local, elected leaders and stakeholders to corroborate and supplement the desk review findings. The interviews were held with stakeholders in the towns and villages which will feature construction works, whether for supply, storage and/or distribution within the Awali–Beirut Water Conveyor Project,

(3) an intercept, random, researcher-administered survey with land operators, where main surface structures will be constructed and whose lands will be expropriated accordingly, in order to collect general information on their perceptions of the Project components and planned outcomes, and

(4) a site walk-over along the planned pipeline through Khaldeh, Hadath and Hazmieh.

The tools used for collecting data for the field survey included questionnaire sheets with structured questions for the interviews and land operator surveys, and photo shooting for visual documentation of the visited sites.

During the surveying of local leaders and residents, data was collected on: (1) the locality’s demographic profile including age and gender distribution; (2) the availability of public and private educational institutions and the overall level of education; (3) land ownership and land use patterns; (4) socio-cultural practices; (5) livelihood and income-generating activities in agriculture, agro-food businesses and industries, as well as industrial and commercial activities; (6) existing physical, public infrastructures, resources and services, e.g. water supply sources and networks, power supply, telecommunications, roads, sewage and solid waste disposal practices; and (7) development needs and priorities relating to poverty, unemployment, sanitation, etc. Individual consent was sought prior to any field data collection.

Furthermore, ELARD prepared and distributed a flyer (see Appendix H) that summarises the Project and informs the resident population and stakeholders of the public consultation session. The public consultation event was held on 12 May 2010. The issues raised in the public consultation are detailed in Appendix I.

It should be noted that due to the lack of formal, comprehensive and consistent data collection and record keeping processes on part of the interviewees, any figures contained within this socio-economic baseline section should be regarded as estimates.

5.9.1.1 Areas relevant to the socio-economic assessment

The geographical scope of this assessment includes the areas that are directly affected by this Project through the sub-surface and surface structures that will be constructed underneath or in the villages.

A standard survey instrument was developed to collect information of relevance to the socio-economic assessment at the community level, especially with regard to livelihoods and standards of living

The study area is classified into two levels of concern:



1. The primary level which includes those villages and towns in which main surface structures are constructed. These are summarized in Table 5-49



Table 5-49 Villages, towns and surface structures

VILLAGE/TOWN SURFACE STRUCTURE PLANNED IN THE VILLAGE/TOWN

JOUN REGULATING STRUCTURE

WADI ABOU YABES WASHOUT

OUARDANIYE TREATMENT WORKS

DAMOUR AREA TWO VENTILATION SHAFTS AND INVERTED SIPHON

NAAMEH RESERVOIR

KHALDEH

FLOW MEASUREMENT AND SAMPLING CHAMBER

SURGE SHAFT

OUTLET DISTRIBUTION CHAMBER

CHOUEIFAT RESERVOIR

ARAMOUN EL-GHARB N/A

BSOUS N/A

KFARCHIMA RESERVOIR

HADATHTWO RESERVOIRS

WASHOUT

WADI CHAHROUR RESERVOIR

BAABDA (INCL. BAABDA, EL FAYYADIYEH, EL YARZEH, EL LOUAIZEH) RESERVOIR

HAZMIYEH ONE RESERVOIR

AL CHIAH N/A

BOURJ EL BARAJNEH N/A

HARET HREIK N/A



The secondary level includes those villages and towns that are crossed by the tunnel. These villages are listed in Table 5-50.

Table 5-50 Villages and towns crossed by the tunnelEnglish name Arabic name DistrictSaraouniye صرونية ChoufMazraat El Barghoutiye مزرعة البرغoوثية ChoufSabonieh صابونية ChoufJ amailiye الجميلية ChoufWardaniye الوردانية ChoufSibline سبلين ChoufMaaniye معنية ChoufAin El Assad عين األسد ChoufBarja برجا ChoufMarj Barja مرج برجا ChoufRas Aalous راس علوس ChoufBaasir بعاصير ChoufDabche دبشة ChoufHaret Baasir حارة بعاصير ChoufHalioune El Tahta حليوني التحتا ChoufHalioune El Faouqa حليوني الفوقا ChoufBaqoun بقعون ChoufDahr El Mgara ضهر المغارة ChoufAaqline عقلين ChoufMazraat Er Rzaniye مزرعة الرزانية ChoufDaher El Aaqline ضهر العقلين ChoufMghaireh مغيري ChoufLahbiyeh الهبية ChoufMechref المشرف ChoufBaawerta بعورته AleyHaret Chbeib حارة شبيب AleyKhaldeh خلدة AleyHadath الحدث BaabdaHazmiyeh الحازمية Baabda

5.9.1.2 Description of the demographic structure

The Project’s phases fall entirely within the Mount Lebanon Governorate and across three Districts (Caza) – Chouf, Aley and Baabda. The project extends from the village of Joun where water is abstracted and delivered to three reservoirs located in the urban settlements of Hadath and Hazmieh. An extensive distribution network is planned to be constructed in the GBA to deliver the reservoirs’ water to the heavily-urbanised Beirut suburbs. Smaller reservoirs are planned to be constructed as part of the main distribution network. These reservoirs will be located in Naameh, Aramoun El-Gharb, Choueifat, Bsous, Kfarchima, Bourj El Barajneh, Al Chiah, Haret Hreik, Hazmiyeh, Baabda and Wadai Chahrour.



The areas crossed by the project are either rural or heavily urbanised. There are no accurate quantitative data on the demographic and socio-economic structures in the villages and towns where structures are due to be erected. However, a general profile of the whole Mount Lebanon governorate is summarized in Table 5-51 to give the reader a general idea about the profile of the area.

Table 5-51 Demographic and socio-economic characteristics of communities in Mount Lebanon

5.9.1.3 General findings on

development needs

Interviews with the local authority representatives on the general socio-economic and livelihood conditions revealed the extent of weakness in the infrastructure that provides water services to residents in parts of the Chouf, Aaley and Baabda districts. On the overall, the sources of water for drinking, service and irrigation purposes were varied, managed by different parties and did not meet the consumption needs of residents. There is a proliferation of private wells and municipality-

GOVERNORATE OF MOUNT LEBANON

Percentage distribution of the population by gender (2004)

Male 50.7

Female 49.3

Fertility rate 2 children

Illiteracy rate

Male 4.5%

Female 1.48%

Total 7.51%

Education enrollment rate by age

5-9 98.1

10-14 96.5

15-19 76.9

20-24 39.0

25-29 6.7Percentage distribution of actual labour force (≥15 years) by economic sectorAgriculture 1.8

Industry 16.3

Construction 5.1

Trade 23.2Transportation, post & telecommunications 7.3

Services 43.3Insurance; Monetary and financial intermediation

2.9

Long-term unemployment as % of actual labour force 2.8%Women’s health care during pregnancy (in 2000) 98.4%



owned wells that are used to supplement the intermittent water supply from water authorities. The depths of these wells reach 400 m in some areas. Water distribution networks are in a poor condition. Some municipalities have initiated repairs and installed new networks, but those remain the exception.

Wastewater networks are present in the area; however the coverage is not universal. A small percentage (~30%) of households is not connected and continues to dispose of sewage in uncontrolled septic tanks.

With the exception of the agricultural areas of Iqlim El Kharroub in the Chouf district and in the coastal agricultural plains of the Damour and Naameh, agriculture in the study area is on the wane. Water for agriculture is sourced from springs and private wells, as well as from the Damour River. It is well-documented however that the coastal aquifers are witnessing increasing salinity. Another, equally if not more important, pressure on agriculture is the urban expansion and a boom in construction in the hills overlooking Beirut from the south and the flat areas in the southern suburbs leading to fewer agricultural lands and non-built areas.

A rise in the standard of living and increasing population density place higher demands on the public infrastructure and utility provision. Water shortages in these areas are commonplace, and the population continues to adapt by tapping private sources, e.g. private wells. On the other hand, and due to the block pricing system of water, households continue to pay for a largely unmet service, whereby a subscriber annually pays for a 1m3/day provision, however water flows only 2-3 days/week on average.

These general findings were concluded upon an investigation of the livelihoods and public infrastructure in the villages and towns where the Awali-Beirut Water Conveyor will cross and/or deliver water through small reservoirs. Although the project was first intended to deliver the Awali water to the southern suburbs directly adjacent to Beirut, its planners have recognised that water shortages in the coastal villages of Iqlim El Kharroub necessitate allowing for the abstraction of water from the tunnel to supply those villages. Within the Project’s second phase, small reservoirs are planned to be built to provide a direct supply to the villages and their neighbouring localities. However, the weakness of distribution infrastructure and lack of fully-functional sanitation services may delay or dampen the anticipated benefits of augmented supplies.

5.9.1.4 Findings by village

The surveys and meetings conducted in the Project study area serve to provide a general overview of the socio-economic situation in the localities which will host the Project’s infrastructure. The survey instrument used to hold structured interviews with local leaders and authority representatives is included in Appendix G. The demographic and socio-economic characteristics and features of the ‘primary level’ villages with planned surface infrastructure are portrayed below. Table 5-52 shows a general description of the villages, including information on the educational infrastructure, socio-cultural attributes and water and wastewater services.

Joun



Joun village lies within the district of Al-Chouf at 350-400m above sea level and over an area of 12 km23. It boasts a culturally and religiously diverse community, a high literacy rate among its population and a functioning local authority. General information on Joun can be found in Table 5-52. Specific information on the area where the regulating structure will be erected is listed in Table5-53. The regulating structure is planned to be sited close to the Monastery Saint Saviour, which also operates an adjoining high school, and close to the Damco Company, a producer of concrete building blocks. A staff member of the Damco Co reported that the manufacturer abstracts water from a nearby spring and uses septic tanks for sewage disposal.

In the Project’s EIA, completed in 1998, the Ministry of Environment raised questions on the impact of water abstraction on the operation of the Joun hydroelectric power plant and the resultant changes in the delivery of irrigation water to Joun’s agricultural areas (see Appendix B). This concern was also raised at the public participation meeting on May 12, 2010.

A water flow of 3m3/s (out of an average flow of 25m3/s) upstream the Joun hydroelectric power plant and into the planned tunnel is to be conveyed to Beirut. The diverted amount will not reduce the power generation at the plant because this amount of water is a surplus, owing to the fact that initial plans at the time of the plant’s design and construction had accounted for this future diversion.

A walk-over survey of the lands and structures downstream of the Joun hydroelectric power plant was conducted and interviews with river bank restaurant owners were held. The River’s water downstream is used to irrigate the agricultural lands adjacent to the river. The restaurants’ operators did not foresee any impacts on their industry from reduced water flow in the River, given that the height of water in the river could reach 3 or 4 m.

The land ownership in the area is yet to be identified through a land survey to be carried out at a future date.

Wadi Abou YabesThe washout structure at Wadi Abou Yabes is located on the outskirts of the towns of Jamailiyeh and Sabouniyeh. The nearest activity taking place is a stone quarry site and its associated building blocks factory. The quarry site and plant obtain their water through a private well, drilled at a depth of 65 m, to supply 30-45 m3 of water daily. The future location of the washout structure in Wadi Abou Yabes and the nearby quarry site are shown in Appendix B and detailed in Table 5-53. Information on the village of Jamailiyeh appears in Table 5-52.OuardaniyeOuardaniye falls within Iqlim Al-Kharoub of Al-Chouf District. The structures for the Ouardaniye Water Treatment Works will be located on the outskirts of the towns of Ouardaniye and Sibline, in the vicinity of agricultural plots within the jurisdiction of Ouardaniye and overlooking the Sibline cement factory (see Appendix B). All of the land lots directly affected by the project are privately owned except for one plot (No. 561-560) which is publicly owned by the State.

3 Bou Maroun, P.M. “Joun: Bride of the Iqlim surrounded by the Awali Waters and an Orange Blossom Fragrance.” Lebanese Army Magazine, Issue 239, May 2005. In Arabic.



The number of residents in Ouardaniye is about 4,000 living in small cement buildings of 1-3 floors. The employment rate is high. Agriculture activities mainly take place in greenhouses where tomato is the main crop, accounting for nearly 5-6% of the region’s income. No common diseases were recorded in the village. General information on the Ouardaniye and Sibline villages are presented in Table 5-52.

Regarding the infrastructure, all roads are paved and electricity is available through the national grid. The town of Ouardaniye is not served by a sewage network and disposes of its wastewater in septic tanks.

Contrary to the situation that prevailed in 1998 and which was highlighted in the previous EIA, whereby an adequate water distribution network was missing, today two water wells found at a depth of 452 m and 369 m4 respectively are used as the main water supply sources. The municipality distributes 1000 m3 of water per day via a network according to a specific schedule. In addition to this ‘official’ water network, up to 150 private wells used for private consumption are drilled in the village.

The municipality has a pending request, submitted in 2005, for the designation of a protected area within the jurisdiction of Ouardaniye.

Al-DamourAl-Damour is a large town of 30,000 registered inhabitants, but only one-third of the town’s ‘citizens’ are residents, while only 1,000 households are occupied around the year, due to the displacement of residents during the civil war and high emigration rate to urban centers. The town area extends from the Damour agricultural plains on the coast up to the mountains and deep valleys through which the Damour River runs. A fifth of the town’s lands are agricultural with a total of 100 ha of cultivated areas – mostly bananas and vegetables, which are irrigated from the River and municipality-owned wells. The town’s drinking and service water is derived from municipality-owned and managed wells, as well as from private wells. A ventilation shaft is planned to be constructed to the south of the Damour River, in an uninhabited area (see Appendix C). The mountains and valleys of Damour are touristic areas, with restaurants and cafés scattered on the river banks. Further north to the ventilation shaft, a washout will be constructed close to some of the restaurants. The owner of one of the restaurants reported the lack of water and wastewater networks and the presence of four lined septic tanks at a 3m depth in the restaurant’s premises. Most of the lands are privately owned. General information on Al-Damour is presented in Table 5-52.

MechrefMechref village is located north of Al-Damour and the Damour River and lies within the district of Al-Chouf. It is regarded as a resort town with holiday homes. The main surface structure to lie within the village boundaries will be a ventilation shaft south of the village and far from currently inhabited areas (See Appendix C). Sub-surface structures will be passing right underneath the village. Land use, land ownership and water infrastructure are issues that are yet to be examined in the Mechref village.

4 Their coordinates being (N 33° 36' 46.1", E 35° 26' 29.0") (N 33° 36' 56.2", E35° 26' 18.0").



NaamehNaameh lies within the district of Al-Chouf at an altitude of 100m above sea level. The majority of lands (98%) are privately owned and the rest are owned by the municipality. The village is witnessing a construction boom whereby 150-200 building permits were handed out in the last three years. Currently there are 26,000 residents in Naameh. Agriculture is practiced on 30% of the land in Naameh. The major agricultural crops grown are vegetables, bananas and strawberries. Irrigation water is supplied from the Damour River and from private wells. Most crops are irrigated using the drip technique; meanwhile bananas are surface-irrigated.

Drinking and service water are supplied through Ain El Delbeh water authority, the Mechref wells operated by the Beirut and Mount Lebanon Water and Wastewater Establishment, private wells and a municipality well. Despite the variety of sources, the village reports a shortage in water. The majority of households (80%) receive their water through a distribution network, which is however in a poor state. The majority of households (70%) are connected to the sewage network.

KhaldehKhaldeh, which is considered as a residential and touristic area, falls under the jurisdiction of the municipality of Choueifat in the Aley District. It is a coastal area that is rapidly urbanizing with 15,000-20,000 residents living in cement buildings of 1-4 floors.

All the land lots which are directly affected by the project are privately owned and the village is well-serviced with paved roads. A water distribution network runs through Khaldeh and is supplied from the Mechref village. According to the head of the Choueifat municipality, the water pipes have all been repaired this year. Also, several privately drilled wells exist in the village with a depth ranging from 30-60 m but water is slightly salty. Furthermore a sewer network is present and is connected to the collector in Khaldeh. No common diseases were recorded in the area.

Khaldeh will be the site of several surface structures: a measurement and sampling chamber, a surge shaft and a distribution chamber. The first two structures will be located near residences, and the land ownership has to be determined. The distribution chamber will be located in a vacant land plot near the highway (see Appendix C).

The head of the Choueifat municipality strongly opposed the Project for the following reasons:

As mentioned above, the water pipes have all been repaired this year and the costs incurred were high. The municipality will not accept any errors that could damage the newly installed pipes.

The land is rocky and it would be too difficult to pass pipelines or tunnels through it.

The idea of getting water from South Lebanon is not favourable and it would be preferable to get if from Al-Kaleb River or to drill wells. He also proposed to establish desalination stations or to even recycle water.

The old Saida road suffered from the density of ground-based extensions of different types and will not tolerate any more pipelines.



ChoueifatChoueifat is a large urban town of 200,000 residents, spreading over 18 sq. km. It is also witnessing a boom in construction, where an average of six building permits are authorised every month (over 200 permits in the last three years). Irrigation water for the little remaining agricultural lands is supplied from springs and private wells. Water in the town is supplied through a municipality well and five public wells operated by the Ain el Delbeh water authority, whose depths range from 30 to 200 m.

Aramoun El-GharbAramoun lies in the district of Aley at 450m altitude. It is a predominantly residential village with 4,000 household units and 16,000 permanent residents. The village has rapidly grown in the past decade. In the last three years, 120 building permits were approved. The water supplied to the village is sourced from springs and a municipality well located at a 400m depth, in addition to a small amount from the Barouk water authority. The village faces shortages in water, whereby water is supplied for 12 hours per week. The existing water distribution network is in a poor state and does not reach all households. The majority of households are connected to a sewage network, which however is in a state of disrepair.

BsousBsous is a rural village in the district of Aley situated at an altitude of 450m above sea level. One-third of the land is used for agricultural purposes, another third is forested land and the remaining areas are built-up. The small village of 2.5 sq. km counts 600 household units, 3,000 permanent residents and 5,500 residents during the summer months. Agricultural areas mostly consist of olive and almond orchards which are irrigated from harvested rain water through drip and surface irrigation.

Drinking and service water are supplied through a public well that is operated and managed by the water authority, and distributed through a well-maintained distribution network on a daily basis. The village is serviced a wastewater collection network covering 75% of the households. The remaining households retain septic tanks for sewage disposal.

KfarchimaKfarchima is a semi-urban locality located in the district of Baabda between 100 and 250 m above sea level and covering a land surface of 5 sq. km. Half of the land consists of built-up areas, and the rest are divided equally among agricultural areas and natural areas consisting mostly of forests. The resident population is estimated at around 20,000 occupying 2,000 household units. The municipality of Kfarchima reports approving only 30 building permits in the past three years. The agricultural lands in Kfarchima are used for growing vegetables and as olive orchards, and are irrigated from the local spring through drip and surface irrigation techniques. The Ain El Delbeh Water Authority operates two wells in Kfarchima and the water is conveyed to the residents by gravity and pumping through an aging distribution network that has been recently replaced by a



newer one, which however has not yet been put in service. The village is served by an old wastewater collection network that is in a poor state.

HadathHadath is a large urban centre lying in the Baabda District between 50 and 300 m above sea level and covering an area of 5.5 sq. km. It counted 150,000 residents in 2002. Its low-lying areas are considered an extension of the southern suburbs of Beirut. The area has witnessed a very rapid growth in newly built areas and a concentration of new businesses. It is primarily a residential and commercial town with some light industrial activity. It is home to many public service institutions, is well-developed and well-serviced through road networks. General information on the town of Hadath appears in Table 5-52.

The town of Hadath is served through a municipality-owned and managed water distribution network. The town receives its water supply from the Ain El-Delbeh Water Authority. It is also served by a wastewater network.

Hadath will be the home of two reservoirs (see Appendix C). Both reservoirs lie in sparsely populated areas; however, there are residences that are very close to the planned site of the new structures.

BaabdaBaabda is the Baabda’s District centre town. It has a permanent resident population of 40,000 and 7,000 household units. The neighbourhoods of Fayyadiyeh, Louaizeh and Yarzeh fall under the authority of the Baabda municipality. These areas are highly sought by property developers due to their proximity to Beirut and their relatively secluded location. The Baabda municipality handed out 300 building permits in the last three years. Water is supplied from the Ain El Delbeh Water Authority as well as from a well in Yarzeh that is operated by the Baabda municipality and is 350m deep. All households were reported to be connected to the sources through a distribution network of average quality. The majority of households are connected to the wastewater network.

HazmiehHazmieh is a large urban area next to Hadath lying between 50 and 150 m above sea level over 3.05 sq. km. It has a resident population of 40,000 occupying 8,000 household units. Similar to Hadath, it is a rapidly urbanizing area that is home to several public service institutions – such as the Ministry of Public Works. It counts 6,500 residents and has a strong presence of bank branches (over 10 bank branches). Its drinking and service water are supplied from the Spring of Daichouniyeh through the Ain El-Delbeh Water Authority and distributed through a public network to all residents at a rate of 2-3 days per week. The local authority representative, who was interviewed, reported quality problems and shortages in the summer season. Hazmieh is served by a wastewater network. General information on the town of Hazmieh is shown in Table 5-52.

A reservoir is planned to be built in Hazmieh in a vacant land plot (Appendix C). The land ownership and designated land use have yet to be determined.

Chiah



Chiah is an urban locality with a high population density. Water is supplied to the estimated 7,000 household units from the Ain El Delbeh Water Authority sources. Residents do not consider the water of drinking quality and prefer to buy bottled water for drinking purposes. All households are connected to the distribution network which is reported to be in an average condition. All households are also connected to the wastewater collection network.

Bourj El BarajnehBourj El Barajneh is a densely populated suburb right outside the city of Beirut. A total resident population of 250,000 inhabitants dwell in 35,000 units built over 5 sq. km. Built areas take up 90% of all the land area. Nevertheless, the municipality handed out 55 new building permits in the last three years. Sparse agricultural lands can still be found with vegetables grown. Water is provided through the Ain El Delbeh Water Authority sources, private wells and through private haulers to households, especially for drinking water. A well-maintaind distribution network connects the public water sources to all residents. The area is also served by a well-maintained sewage collection network.

Haret HreikHaret Hreik is another heavily urbanised, densely populated suburb to the south of the city of Beirut covering less than 2 sq. km. Yet, it counts 25,000 household units occupied by more than 100,000 residents. It is served by the Ain El Delbeh Water Authority and receives its water from the Spring of Daichouniyeh and private wells. A distribution network is present; however it is in a poor state and covers only 10% of households. Wastewater and storm water networks are present and provide coverage to all households and roads.


Table 5-52 General features of surveyed towns and villages

VILLAGE/ TOWN



WATER & WASTEWATER SERVICES OTHER INFORMATION

Joun

Population: 7500-8000Altitude: 350-400 mSurface area: 12 km2

Land ownership: 20-30% publicly owned, and the remaining is privately ownedLand use: 80% is designated for agricultural use

Agriculture: Olive groves; Citrus orchards; Vegetables and Flowers in greenhouses; the majority of designated agricultural lands remain uncultivated due to the lack of irrigation waterIndustry: Agro-food (Olive oil; Orange Blossom water; Rose water; Carob molasses); Manufacture of Nylon, Tyres and concrete building blocksCommerce: Small shops and garages

High literacy rate (95%)Two public & two private schoolsPublic LibraryAfforestation campaignsSports facilitiesMonastery of Saint SaviourArchaeological featuresOld stone housesOne dispensary & resident doctors

Drinking, service and irrigation water is supplied by the Barouk Water Authority and distributed through a public networkA public, municipal well supplements the supply in addition to many private wells in privately-owned landsSmall hillside reservoirs for rain water harvestingNo sewage network; septic tanks are used

A land survey is underway60-70 building permits were handed out in the last three years60% of the population are seasonal residents

Jamailiyeh

Land ownership: the majority is privately ownedLand use: Residential and commercial, no agricultural or industry-designated lands

Agriculture: Very little agricultural activities take placeIndustry: Quarry site and associated building blocks factoryCommerce: Small shops and garages

No public or private schools Drinking, service and irrigation water is supplied through the Barouk Water Authority and distributed through a public networkNo private wells were reportedNo sewage network; septic tanks are used

A land survey has been carried out

Ouardaniye Population: 4000Altitude: 350 m

Agriculture: Vegetable production in greenhousesIndustry: A grain mill and building blocks factoriesCommerce: Restaurant/Café

One public & one private schoolOne dispensary

Water is supplied through public wells, at depths of 452m and 369m, managed by the municipality, which also manages a distribution networkUp to 150 private wells are drilled in the villageNo sewage network; septic tanks are used

SiblinePopulation: 1200Altitude: 350 mLand ownership: The

Agriculture: Very little agricultural activities, mostly vegetable production, take place

One public, one private & one UNRWA-operated vocational schoolOne public hospital, one dispensary & many resident doctors

The Spring of SiblineWater is supplied through public wells, at depths of 350m and 260 m,

70-80 building permits were handed out in the last three



VILLAGE/ TOWN




majority of lands are privately owned

Industry: Sibline Cement Factory; Shoe factory; Chocolate factory; Granite factory; Tarmac factoryCommerce: Swimming Club; Small shops and garages

Archaeological featuresElectricity & phone infrastructure

managed by the municipality, which also manages a reservoir and a distribution networkPrivate wells are also usedThe Barouk Water Authority has not supplied water to Sibline since the 1970sA municipality-owned & managed sewage network covers 85% of households; the rest use septic tanks

years

Al-Damour

Population: 30,000Resident population: 10,000 (due to displacement & emigration)Land ownership: The majority of lands are privately ownedLand use: 20% are in agricultural use

Agriculture: 100 ha of banana plantations and vegetable productionCommerce: Restaurants/Cafés; Small shops and garages

Two public & three private schoolsArchaeological featuresOne dispensary & resident doctors

The Damour River waters are used for irrigationDrinking and service water are supplied through municipal public wells and private wellsA sewage network is present but is not operational; septic tanks are used

A land survey has been carried out Around 30 building permits were handed out in the last three years

Naameh Resident Population: 26,000

Agriculture is practiced on 30% of the land in Naameh. The major agricultural crops grown are vegetables, bananas and strawberries. Irrigation water is supplied from the Damour River and from private wells. Most crops are irrigated using the drip technique; meanwhile bananas are surface-

Drinking and service water are supplied through Ain El Delbeh water authority, the Mechref wells operated by the Water and Mount Lebanon Water Establishment, private wells and a municipality well. Despite the variety of sources, the village reports a shortage in water. The majority of households (80%) receive their water

The village is witnessing a construction boom whereby 150-200 building permits were handed out in the last three years.



VILLAGE/ TOWN




irrigated.

through a distribution network, which is however in a poor state. The majority of households (70%) are connected to the sewage network.

Choueifat Resident population: 200,000 Little remaining agricultural lands

Water in the town is supplied through

a municipality well and five public

wells operated by the Ain el Delbeh

water authority, whose depths range

from 30 to 200 m.

witnessing a boom in construction, where an average of six building permits are authorized every month (over 200 permits in the last three years).

Aramoun El Gharb

16,000 permanent residents Little remaining agricultural lands

The water supplied to the village is sourced from springs and a municipality well located at a 400m depth, in addition to a small amount from the Barouk water authority. The village faces shortages in water, whereby water is supplied for 12 hours per week. The existing water distribution network is in a poor state and does not reach all households.



VILLAGE/ TOWN




The majority of households are connected to a sewage network, which however is in a state of disrepair.

Bsous

600 household units, 3,000 permanent residents and 5,500 residents during the summer months.

One-third of the land is used for agricultural purposes

Agricultural areas mostly consist of

olive and almond orchards which

are irrigated from harvested rain

water through drip and surface

irrigation.

Drinking and service water are

supplied through a public

well that is operated and managed by

the water authority, and distributed

through a well-maintained distribution

network on a daily basis. The village

is serviced a wastewater collection

network covering 75% of the

households. The remaining

households retain septic tanks for

sewage disposal

Kfarchima

The resident population is estimated at around 20,000 occupying 2,000 household units

Agricultural lands in Kfarchima are used for growing vegetables and as olive orchards, and are irrigated from the local spring through drip and surface irrigation techniques.

The Ain El Delbeh Water Authority operates two wells in Kfarchima and the water is conveyed to the residents by gravity and pumping through an aging distribution network that has been recently replaced by a newer one, which however has not yet been put in service. The village is served

The municipality of Kfarchima reports approving only 30 building permits in the past three



VILLAGE/ TOWN




by an old wastewater collection network that is in a poor state. years.

Hadath Population: 150,000Industry: Light industries – Elevators, towels, tilesCommerce: Banks & shops

Many public service institutionsFour public, 10 private & two vocational schools; three universities, including the largest Lebanese University campusTwo hospitals, three dispensarys and many resident doctors

Water is supplied through the Ain El-Delbeh water authority and distributed through a municipally-owned and managed networkA sewage network is present and operational

Hazmieh Population: 6,500 Commerce: Over 10 banks and numerous offices

Many public service institutionsOne public & six private schools; three universitiesTwo hospitals, one dispensary and many resident doctors

Water is supplied through the Ain El-Delbeh water authority from the Daichouniyeh Spring and distributed through a networkA sewage network is present and operational

Bourj El Barajneh

Population: 250,000Surface area: 5km2

Altitude: 0-30 mLand ownership: All lands are privately ownedLand use: 90% are built-up areas

Services: Commerce; traders; small shops; petrol stations

Many public service institutionsSix public and numerous private schoolsTwo private hospitals, many resident doctors, health centres, pharmacies and dentists



Table 5-53 Main establishments in the study area

NO. VILLAGE/TOWN STRUCTUREGEOGRAPHIC SYSTEM WGS1984 MAIN OBSERVED ESTABLISHMENTS REFEREN

CELATITUDE LONGITUDE

1. Joun Regulating Structure 33°34'49.27"N

35°26'18.95"E

DAMCO Company - building blocks company - located near a Greek Catholic monastery known as Deir El-Mokhalless (Monastery Saint Saviour)

Figure C1

2. Wadi Abou Yabes Washout 33°35'46.50"N

35°25'44.77"E Quarry and Building blocks factory Figure C2

3. Ouardaniye Water Treatment Works 33°37'1.31"N

35°25'3.83"E Sibline Cement Factory Figure C3

4. Damour Washout 33°42'4.20"N

35°28'15.54"E

Several restaurants were recorded: Aoun Restaurant Mohanna Restaurant Safa Restaurant

Figure C5

5. Hadath Reservoir (at an altitude of 90m)

33°49'45.00"N

35°31'49.29"E REGIE Libanaise des Tabacs et Tombacs Figure

C116. Hadath Reservoir (at an altitude of

125m)33°49'46.07"N

35°31'55.66"E

Saint George Hills Residential Project Saydet Al Najat School

Figure C10

7. Hazmieh Reservoir (at an altitude of 90m)

33°51'0.20"N

35°32'11.14"E

The area around the reservoir is considered as a residential area which includes several stores such as Supermarket Abou Khalil

Figure C12

8. Aramoun N/A 33°45'46.28"N

35°29'16.99"E

Al Sa’ed residential project; it is under construction and extends over a surface of about 33 000 m2. It will include 15% of public spaces as well as roads, parking and gardens.Drinking water needs are supplied from both a private water well running at a depth of 250 m and the regular water network

9. New Doha N/A 33°45'32.52"N

35°29'22.12"E Sky Tower Residential Project

10. Baawerte N/A 33°44'6.12"N

35°29'4.17"E Homes in Baawerte village

11. Mechref N/A 33°43'0.22"N

35°28'33.55"E

Carmel Saint Joseph school; it’s worth noting that officials from this school have expressed their resentment against the project and clearly stated that they will object passing the pipelines beneath the school.

12. N/A 33°42'48.81"N

35°28'59.64"E Hariri Canadian University (HCU)

13. N/A 33°40'27.18"N

35°27'47.46"E Beirut Arab University (BAU)

14. Naameh N/A 33°45'1.75" 35°29'30.20 Naameh landfill



NO. VILLAGE/TOWN STRUCTUREGEOGRAPHIC SYSTEM WGS1984 MAIN OBSERVED ESTABLISHMENTS REFEREN

CELATITUDE LONGITUDE N "E



ESIA FOR AWALI-BEIRUT WATER CONVEYER PROJECTPUBLIC CONSULTATION

6. PUBLIC CONSULTATION6.1INTRODUCTION

Requirement for consultation with stakeholders, and particularly with local communities, was one of the main reasons for conducting the update of the EIA study.Public consultation is in line with requirements of the Lebanese legislation (Environmental Protection Law No. 444/ 2002), the Lebanese EIA draft decree and the IFC consultation and disclosure requirements (Guidance Note F). This section sheds light on previous consultations as well as recent ones conducted as part of the updated ESIA study.

6.2REVIEW OF PREVIOUS CONSULTATIONS

In the course of earlier studies, Montgomery Watson had consulted key Government Ministries, interested parties, experts of the local scientific community regional and local authorities and NGOs.A seminar (workshop) was held on 15th of July 1997. This covered key project elements and route, the methodology of Environmental Assessment and the main environmental impacts and benefits identified.A record of all meetings and consultations held by Montgomery Watson are given in Appendix I.

6.3RECENT CONSULTATIONS

Lack of consultation with the directly affected local communities in the earlier EIA report posed a necessity to target these in the updated study in aim to ensure that adequate and timely information is provided to them and other stakeholders, and that they are given the chance to voice their opinions and concerns.ELARD team has coordinated closely with the Ministry of Environment to ensure to the extent possible that the public consultation process is in line with MoE’s requirements. Based on an agreed plan with MoE’s representatives, ELARD team has consulted potentially affected local people and concerned Municipalities during the socio-economic survey. Interviews and questionnaires are attached to Appendix G. This activity involved conducting interviews and surveys through questionnaires with the communities and head of municipalities. Project leaflets, prepared in Arabic, were distributed during the survey (Appendix H). These aimed at introducing the project while serving as an invitation to participate in a public consultation meeting.

6.4PUBLIC PARTICIPATION MEETING

As part of the scoping phase, a public participation event was held in the Lebanese University in Hadath at the Institute of Fine Arts on the 12th of May 2010. Invitations were sent out to concerned Ministries and Municipalities through official facsimile letters from the CDR. Local communities

PREPARED BY ELARD 1


ESIA FOR AWALI-BEIRUT WATER CONVEYER PROJECTPUBLIC CONSULTATION

have on the other hand received oral invitations during social interviews as well as written ones via the distributed leaflets as mentioned above. A list of the attendees is given in the attached minutes of meeting in Appendix I.ELARD consultants presented the project details, potential impacts and mitigation measures in a 45-minute presentation (Appendix I), and opened the floor for one hour of open discussions with the attendees.Various environmental impacts were discussed during the open session and some concerns rose up by the attendees. These are documented in the attached minutes of meeting (Appendix I).The two main serious concerns raised by the public are summarized in Table 6-54 with a explanation of how the concern is addressed by the project proponents.

Table 6-54 The main raised concerns

CONCERN DESCRIPTION ACTION/ANSWER

Retrieval of 3m3/s of

water

Concerns were raised regarding the type

and magnitude of impact that could

potentially affect the natural flow of water in

the Awali River section downstream the Joun

HEP after retrieval of the required amount of

water for the Conveyor Project

There will be no direct effect

on the natural flow. This

point is well addressed in

Section 7.6

Structural impact from

TBM activity

Concerns on adverse impacts on the

structural stability of the St. Joseph Carmel

School were expressed by the chairperson

since the tunnel is passing beneath the

school.

CDR to provide adequate

geotechnical reports proving

that there will be no direct

impacts resulting from the

tunnel boring activity.

A second Public Consultation covering both components of the project was held for the purpose of disclosing the results of the ESIA study on 27 July 2010 and has targeted the same audience including all related stakeholders as for the first consultation. Minutes of Meeting of the above meeting are attached to Appendix I.

The questions raised by the audience are given in Table 6-55below.

PREPARED BY ELARD 2

FINAL REPORT COUNCIL FOR DEVELOPMENT AND RECONSTRUCTION (CDR)ESIA FOR AWALI-BEIRUT WATER CONVEYER PROJECT PUBLIC CONSULTATION

Table 6-55 Questions Raised during Second Public Participation

QUESTION/COMMENTS ADDRESSED BY ANSWER ANSWERED BY

This project was addressed in the 70’s and faced many

obstacles especially political ones, one of the obstacles is

the fact that this project is taking the water to Beirut

without feeding the areas where the tunnel will pass.

Eng. Nashaat Hamieh

- Barja Municipality

The tunnel has openings all along to allow future

connections to water networks and supply the areas along

the tunnel.

Ismail Makke (CDR)

If the 3m3/s was allocated in the 70’s, is this amount

considering the increase in water need from then till now?

And is this amount enough to feed Beirut and the areas

around the tunnel?

The 3 m3/s can meet Beirut’s needs, as for the needs of

the areas surrounding the tunnel the Awali project if one

part of the water project in Lebanon, the Bisri dam will

shortly follow the Awali project and both projects will meet

the requirements of Beirut and the other areas. The time

difference between the 2 projects is one year so we might

face a shortage problem for one year only.

Ismail Makke (CDR)

Is the Tunnel designed for 3m3/s? Eng. Pierre Abi

Rashed – P.A.R

Consultants/Baabda

Municipality

The tunnel is designed for 9 m3/s. Ismail Makke (CDR)

When will the Awali and The Bisri project start? Ministry of

Environment

The implementation of the Awali Project will start in April –

May 2011.

Bisri Dam will follow shortly

Ismail Makke (CDR)

Is Any Part of the tunnel passing on public roads? Hassan Khawandi –

Ministry of public

works and

The Tunnel will be underground (under private lands)

whereas the twin pipelines will pass under roads

Ismail Makke (CDR)

PREPARED BY ELARD 3



transportation

The tunnel of Nahr Ibrahim took 8 years of work although

it needed 4 years, what is the expected delay time for this

project?

Mme Khoury – Carmel

St Joseph School-

Mechref

The problem of Nahr Ibrahim Tunnel was the method of

drilling because the drilling was in different types of rocks.

For the Awali project the drilling will take place in one type

of rocks using TBM (Tunnel Boring Machine). Minor

problem that may occur because of underground

unexpected issues are the only things that might delay

the project, but hopefully it will end within its targeted

time

Ismail Makke (CDR)

If we go back to the tunnel profile at what depth from the

surface the tunnel will take place and by how much sand it

will be overlain?

Pierre Abi Rashed –

P.A.R

Consultant/Baabda

Municipality

The tunnel will be drilled in rocky lands at a depth ranging

from 20 to 190 m. the lowest depth will be in the valleys of

Wadi abu yabes and Damour River where there will be

some gravel/sand.

Rashad Ghanem

(ELARD)

We are hearing a lot these days that the Qaraoun Lake is

polluted and part of the water coming to the Awali tunnel

will be from Qaraoun, so would this water be drinkable?

Elie Farhat -

Kfarshima

Municipality

If we suppose that nothing is being done to treat the water

of the Litani river and it all arrived to the Qaraoun Lake

untreated, the water that will be taken from the lake for

the Awali tunnel will be mixed with water from Ain El

Zarka, the water passing under the Jizzine Tunnel and the

water of Bisri lake, so if the water started with a 100%

pollution it will reach the tunnel with 10% pollution, and

then the water will be treated in the Ouardaniye WTW,

thus the water will be clear and drinkable.

Furthermore, there is an ongoing plan to treat the water of

the Litani River, this plan is implemented by a set of Water

Ismail Makke (CDR)

PREPARED BY ELARD 4



Treatment Plants that was built or is being built in

Baalbak, Timnine, Zahle, Job Jinnine, Saghbine and

Qaraoun, some of these started working and others will

start soon.

Who will follow up on the project while it is being executed

and afterwards? The problem is that the studies are

always very good but no one follows up afterwards. What

about the other areas outside Beirut? What about the

Naame Landfill? And what is the effect of the tunnel on the

lands that it is passing under?

Mme Khoury – Carmel

St Joseph School-

Mechref

The status of the Naame Landfill is a part of the national

plan for solid waste.

As for the Awali project, the ministry of environment had

some strict rules regarding the sludge and mud that will

be produced from the works, so these will be sent to the

Naame landfill as it is the only place available.

There is no effect on the lands that the tunnel is passing

under, because the tunnel is really deep.

As a proof all countries have subways that are much

shallower and do not affect the lands, so a tunnel that

deep should not have any effect. Another proof is that

tunnels were dug long time ago for the litany project and

nothing went wrong till now.

Ismail Makke (CDR) -

Mr. Nasser Nasrallah

(president of Friends

of Ibrahim Abd El Al

Organization)

The Awali and Bisri projects are related. The fact that the

Awali project took into consideration that more water will

be conducted through it is a guarantee that the Bisri dam

will be executed.

Both projects are crucial to provide water to Beirut and the

surrounding areas through openings along the tunnel for

future connections.




Organization)

PREPARED BY ELARD 5



Kanan Lake is also a good source to feed the areas of

Iqlim el Kharoub and this project will be raised later on.

As for the Qaraoun Lake, a plan was set to treat and

prevent its pollution. The following water treatment plants

are part of this plan:

Qaraoun station started working

Saghbine and Jibb Jinnine stations will start working

this year, and Jib Jinninne covers the areas from

Aammiq to Ain el Zibde.

Areas from Ghazze to North Baaloul and Areas along

Rashaya will be also connected to the treatment

plant.

Kob Elias, El Marj, Houch el harime, Bar Elias. Anjar

and Majdel Anjar will be also connected to el Marj

Station.

Zahle and its surroundins will have a treatment plant

as well as Bednayel, Shmistar and Riyyak.

We can also note that during the summer, Qaraoun lake is

not polluted because farmers build small sand dams along

the Litany River to divert its water for irrigation purposes,

so the polluted water of the litany will not reach the lake,

leaving it clear and unpolluted. The problem occurs in the

winter were the rain destroys the small dams and bring

the water to the lake.

As for the follow up of the projects, Mr Nasrallah advised

PREPARED BY ELARD 6



to increase our awareness and participation, like what we

are doing in this meeting, so we can push the ministries

and all the concerned responsible to act.

Are the 3 m3/s of water that will be used for this project

guaranteed all over the year?

Mr. Abd El Rahman

Ghaziri – Beirut and

Mount Lebanon Water

Authority)

The critical time that the water is needed for is from April

till October and the Qaraoun Lake was always able to

meet its full capacity of 220 million m3 during this period.

The actual usage of the Qaraoun is of 60 million m3, and it

will reach 120 million m3 once project 800 starts

operating.

So the water supply of the Awali project will always be

guaranteed.

There is a future plan that consists of using the Qaraoun

water for Agriculture and drinking a lot more than for

generating electricity.

Ismail Makke (CDR)

On what basis the capacity of the phase 2 reservoirs was

set? Was it set in the 70’s also or did it take into

consideration the future needs?

Pierre Abi Rashed –

P.A.R

Consultant/Baabda

Municipality

The time scope of the plans is 2030.

The 9m3/s that were planned for future use for the tunnel

and the capacity of the reservoirs can meet the increasing

demand for water for a sufficient time period even

exceeding the year2030.

Ismail Makke (CDR)

Will you use explosives in the drilling process? Did you do

a survey to the tunnel depth to check the type of material

that will be faced? The presentation mentioned around 88

Mr. Adel Yacoub –

Ministry of

Environment

For the overall project there will be no use of explosives,

these will only be used at the beginning of the tunnel to

open an entrance for the TBM Machine.

Ismail Makke (CDR) -



PREPARED BY ELARD 7



tons of sludge daily, will the Naame Landfill be able to

accept this amount and what is the alternative plan?

Surveys were done for the tunnel depth.

The materials that will result from the drilling will be

reused in the project, the remaining sludge or mud will be

disposed in the Naame landfill.

Naame landfill is receiving daily 2700 ton of solid waste

from Beirut and Mount Lebanon, so the 80 or 100 tons of

sludge will not have a major effect on the landfill capacity.

Once the landfill is closed (after 2 to 3 years) the sludge

will move to the alternative developed for it.

Mr. Nasrallah interfered and gave a comparison between

Dbayeh and the Awali project:

In Dbayeh the water is more turbid because it comes from

Jeita so it causes sedimentation in Nahr El Kalb. But in

Awali the sediments are already deposited in Qaraoun and

the only other place where the water becomes turbid is

water coming from Ain el zarka to markaba after the first

rain. So water reaching the treatment plant is not that

turbid.


Organization)

What is the time frame of the project? The project should start in April/ May 2011 and should

take 3-4 years to be completed.

Ismail Makke (CDR)

Suggestion: to use the water that will get out of the

treatment plant and the excess of the water in the tunnel

to produce energy.

Eng. Antoinette

Sleiman (Litani Water

Authority)

PREPARED BY ELARD 8



Is the Project going to take from the Water of the Damour

River were the 2 ventilation shafts are present?

The tunnel will just pass by the Damour River without

using any of its water.

Ismail Makke (CDR)

What is the Tunnel Composed off? It will consist of reinforced concrete covered by stainless

steel for the treated water to pass in.

One of the obstacles that delayed the project was to agree

whether to do a concrete tunnel or pipelines, and the

result was a combination, a tunnel to khalde and pipelines

to distribute water from khalde to the reservoirs.

The tunnel is less costly then the pipelines.

Ismail Makke (CDR)

Wouldn’t it cost less if the WTW was done near Beirut? May be It will cost a bit less but this way we would be

depriving the areas where the tunnel passes from fresh

water and this was a major problem during the study of

the project.

Ismail Makke (CDR)

How does the expropriation law work? A legal session formed of a judge and real estate experts

will be held for each area that should be expropriated that

will take into consideration all the facts related to this area

and its surrounding and will issue a decision regarding the

price of the area to be expropriated in accordance with

the Lebanese expropriation law

Ismail Makke (CDR)

PREPARED BY ELARD 9


ESIA FOR AWALI-BEIRUT WATER CONVEYER PROJECTENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

7. ENVIRONEMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT7.1INTRODUCTION

The proposed Awali-Beirut Water Conveyor Project has the potential to create a range of impacts on the environment. These potential impacts can be both positive (beneficial) and negative (adverse) depending on the resources and receptors involved along with other parameters such as geographical scope (magnitude and extent), temporal scope (duration) and reversibility.

It is anticipated that this project will have long-term term positive impacts on the economic sector, employment (national scale), infrastructure and services, water supply and sanitation, environment and public heath sectors among others.

The purpose of this chapter is to predict social and environmental impacts to the extent possible and to propose preventive measures which will be incorporated in the Project design, construction and operation. Actions will also be undertaken in order to mitigate, if not eliminate, the potential adverse impacts of the Project to as low as reasonably practicable (ALARP), and to meet international and national Lebanese standards and regulations.

7.2METHODOLOGY OF IMPACT EVALUATION

7.2.1 General Approach

The type/nature (positive, negative, direct, indirect), magnitude, timing (during design, construction, operation), duration (short term/temporary, long term/permanent) and significance of impacts will be assessed in this section. The evaluation approach implemented in this study is a Receptor-Specific Analysis approach addressing the various sources of impacts from the project’s different implementation phases (construction, operation). These phases include tunneling activities, construction and site preparation, trenching, backfilling, vehicular and equipment transport, temporary access routes and base camps, excavation activities, hydro-testing, commissioning and operation.

The analysis covers all potential fields of impacts and/ potential receptors:

Ambient Air Quality;

Soil, Landscape and Visual Amenity;

Water Resources (Groundwater & Surface Water bodies);

Biodiversity (Fauna & Flora);

Noise and Vibration;

Archeology; and

Socio-Economic and Public Community Impacts




The general evaluation process will include the following stages: Step 1: Identification of project related activities (sources) and environmental

aspects;

Step 2: Identification of potential impacts to the environment (physical, biological, human, cultural);

Step 3: Evaluation and assessment of the related unmitigated impact significance;

Step 4: Identification of Best Practicable Environmental Options (BPEO); and

Step 5: Re-evaluation and assessment of the mitigated impact significance.

7.2.2 Impact Evaluation Pre-Screening Level

The screening methodology that is adopted for the purpose of this EIA comprises a preliminary screening process followed by a more detailed secondary screening process.

The key issues identified were further investigated and evaluated based on planned project operations including proposed activities, time duration, national Lebanese regulations and the social and environmental baseline collected during the field surveys.

Given the data gathered by ELARD, the team channeled the results to a secondary screening process.

7.2.3 Impact Evaluation Secondary Screening Level

The secondary screening level aims at analytically screening the wide range of possible sources and potential impacts which were previously highlighted. This screening stage further assesses the impacts in terms of their significance, reversibility, likelihood of occurrence and geographical and temporal scopes.

In the secondary screening level, consequence criteria were ranked into six levels of significance listed in Table 7-56. Then, the likelihood of the occurrence of the impact was rated according to the criteria outlined in Table 7-57. Based on the level of significance, and likelihood of occurrence, the significant risks (impact severities) are identified.

The assigned impact severity assessment was first considered assuming the absence of project control and mitigation measures. Following investigation and presentation of typical and commonly practiced project mitigations, the impact severities for the mitigated project activities are then presented in Table 7-58

The assigned impact severity was derived from: Round table scoring exercise by all team experts;

Results from analysis and calculations, where applicable;

Previous public consultation meetings outcomes; and




Scientific predictions based on experience of every team member in the field of his/her expertise and from outcomes from similar projects conducted abroad or locally.

Table 7-56 Secondary Screening Consequence Level Criteria

CRITERIA CONSEQUENCE RATINGChanges that result in a net positive impact to an ecosystem, environment or population. BeneficialShort term changes in an ecosystem that are unlikely to be noticeable (i.e. fall within the scope of natural variation). Area of effect is restricted to the immediate vicinity of the source.Has no discernible effect on the environmental resource as a whole and is likely to go unnoticed by those who already use it.Negligible impact to a site of social and/or cultural importance.

1. Negligible

Minor adverse changes in a VEC. Changes will be noticeable but fall within the range of normal variation and be typically short-lived, with unassisted recovery possible in the near term. However, it is recognized that a low level of impact may remain.Medium term impact (1-5 yrs) in an area that does not encompass a VEC or whose impact is highly localized within a VEC.Long term impact over a discrete, small area which does not support a VEC.May be noticed but does not affect the livelihood of those utilizing a resource.Minor impact to a site of social and/or cultural importance.

2. Minor

Moderate adverse changes in a VEC or area that supports a VEC population. Changes may exceed the range of natural variation though potential for recovery within a few years without intervention is good.Area of effect encompasses an area that supports either a moderate or minor proportion of a VEC population or ecosystem.Long term (> 5 yrs) changes over an area which is not considered to be a VEC.Has a measurable effect on the livelihood of those using a resource over a period of weeks.Moderate damage to a site of social and/or cultural importance.

3. Moderate

Long term or continuous impact resulting in substantial adverse changes in a VEC, well outside the range of natural variation. Unassisted recovery could be protracted.Area of effect is extensive and/or encompasses an area that supports a statistically significant proportion of a VEC population or ecosystem.Has a measurable effect on the livelihood of those using

4. Significant




CRITERIA CONSEQUENCE RATING

a resource over a period of months.Significant damage / impact to a site of social and/or cultural importance.Massive impact over a large area resulting in extensive, potentially irreparable damage to a VEC*.Has a measurable effect on the livelihood of those using a resource over a period of years.Massive impact over a large area resulting in extensive, potentially irreparable damage to a site of social and/or cultural importance.

5. Catastrophic

* VEC means Valuable Ecosystem Component, used to refer to components of the environment that are considered to be of commercial and/or ecological importance.

Table 7-57 Likelihood Evaluation Criteria

LIKELIHOOD TO OCCUR CATEGORY SCORE

Impact is highly likely or certain to occur under normal operating/ construction conditions

High C

Impact may possibly occur under normal operating/construction conditions.

Medium B

Impact is unlikely to occur under normal operating/construction conditions but may occur in exceptional circumstances.

Low A

7.2.1 Listing of Environmental Impact Severity

A single table “Environmental Impact Severity Matrix” was developed to review all identified impacts during each phase of the Project after having determined the potential level of significance for each impact while using the screening procedure identified above. Table 7-58 illustrates the impact assessment severity matrix.

Table 7-58 Impact Assessment Severity Matrix

LIKELIHOOD RATING

A B C

CON

SEQ

UEN

CE R

ATIN

G

1 1A 1B 1C

2 2A 2B 2C

3 3A 3B 3C

4 4A 4B 4C

5 5A 5B 5CLEGEND

Consequences Likelihood Acceptibility

1 - Negligible 4 – Significant A – Low Beneficial

2 - Minor 5 – Catastrophic B – Medium Negligible with minor mitigation

3 - Moderate Beneficial C – High Minimize Impacts




Unacceptable




7.3POTENTIAL IMPACTS ON AMBIENT AIR QUALITY

Emissions to the atmosphere of air contaminants will be released during Project activities. However Project-related emissions are mainly expected to occur during Construction and to a much lesser extent during Operation. With the exception of the Joun regulation structure, Ouardaniye WTW, flow measurement/sampling and distribution chambers and water storage reservoirs which represent the major surface facilities, the Project components are mainly underground structures comprising of tunnels and pipelines conveying only water (raw and/or treated) to storage reservoirs and distribution networks (existing and/or future planned).

It should be noted that "Process" point sources are those not directly attributed to the combustion of fuel but released during operation of specific equipment. Though the proposed Project falls under "Category A" of the World Bank Environmental Categories, the conceptual design of the planned above-ground facilities does not include Process point sources whereby combustion or process-related emissions (stacks, fugitive emissions from fuel storage tanks, etc.) are anticipated during Operation. With the exception of on-site diesel-fueled engines/generators which supply power to the planned nine (9) pumping stations Table 3-23 and transport operations (chemical requirements for WTW, sludge collection and disposal), routing and maintenance inspections to the constructed facilities (chambers, WTW, storage reservoirs) which are designed to be automated (i.e. unmanned), no other combustion sources and units are anticipated to burn fuel/diesel and generate emissions to the air during Operation.

Therefore, to assess the environmental impacts of the proposed Project on ambient air quality, it is more relevant to consider and examine the impacts of the anticipated Construction activities on the ambient air quality.

Based on the information provided by the Design Team and Project Proponent, Construction is expected to be carried out over three years during which major activities that could potentially impact the local air quality include:

Site Clearance and Excavation – Drilling, blasting, pipeline construction and tunnel boring works (to a lesser extent) and spoil stockpiling; and

Project-related vehicle traffic – transportation of raw material, excavated spoil, and manpower to and from construction sites.

With regards to the Assessment Area, existing air quality conditions are described in terms of meteorological conditions. Currently, no information on ambient air quality in terms of airborne contaminants in the area under assessment, released from the number of existing industrial and other potential point sources, is available.

For the sake of the assessment, the current ambient air quality shall be described qualitatively through the identification of existing point sources relevant to the Assessment Area and its vicinity and projected type of emissions anticipated to be released during Project Construction. It




should also be highlighted that, in this case, cumulative impact(s) on ambient air quality are not expected to be significant given that Project-related emissions are temporary in nature and localized (to the construction sites) and shall decrease considerably upon cessation of construction activities.

7.3.1 Impacts from Combustion and Exhaust Emissions

With the exception of the Sibleen Cement Plant (in Ouardaniye) and the Naameh landfill (in Naameh) which are considered as the only two major existing sources of combustion (Sibleen stacks) and greenhouse gas emissions (mainly CH4 from landfill), no other important industrial facilities are identified as sources of airborne contaminants. However, additional factors and development projects including the international airport, highways/freeways and a quarry site, located in and around the Study Area are expected to affect the existing ambient air quality.

The planned construction works including pipeline construction and tunnel boring as well as the installation of surface infrastructure are expected to be carried out partly in rural degraded areas (mostly at isolated valley crossings), and partly within urban residential areas. In the latter setting, emission sources are limited to the on-going vehicular exhaust and transportation activities.

As aforementioned, Project-related emissions during Construction are limited to combustion emissions from diesel-fueled generators and equipment operated onsite, exhaust emissions from vehicle transportation and fugitive dust emissions generated during site clearance, excavation, drilling and blasting and concrete batch mixing operations for the construction of the Project-related infrastructure and linear structures (particularly pipelines).

Emissions from combustion arise from the burning of fuel and are dependent on fuel flow rate, fuel type, combustion equipment and the presence of pollution control devices. The main air pollutants likely to be associated with these emission sources include: Oxides of Nitrogen (NOX), Sulfur Dioxide (SO2), Particulate Matter (PM), Carbon Monoxide (CO) and dust. Additional pollutants can include Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S) and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). The impacts associated with the above air emissions are illustrated in Table 7-59.




Table 7-59 Environmental and Health Impacts of Major Air Pollutants from Combustion Sources

EMISSION ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

Oxides of Nitrogen – NOX

NO2 is a toxic gas, even at relatively low concentrations. NOX also contributes to the formation of acidic species, which can be deposited by wet and dry processes. NOX can also increase the formation of ozone at ground level when mixed with VOCs in the sunlight atmosphere. NO is a relatively innocuous species, but is of interest as a precursor for NO2.

Sulfur Dioxide – SO2

SO2 is a toxic gas, and is known to contribute to acid deposition (wet SO2 and dry), which may impact ecosystems. Direct health effects potentially causing respiratory illness.

Particulates – PM10

Particulate matter is a complex mixture of organic and inorganic substances present in the atmosphere in either solid or liquid form. Particulate matter is inhaled and deposited within the respiratory pathways, leading to a variety of health effects.PM10 (i.e. particulate matter with a diameter of less than 10 µm) is able to penetrate deeply into the lungs. An association has been established between elevated concentrations of PM10 and excess short term mortality and morbidity rates.

Carbon Monoxide – CO

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that is slightly less dense than air. When inhaled, the gas is absorbed into the bloodstream and combines with hemoglobin in the blood to form carboxyhemoglobin (COHb). The affinity of hemoglobin for CO is more than 200 times greater than for oxygen. The result is that CO acts as a poison by reducing the amount of O2 that can combine with hemoglobin.

It should be mentioned that exhaust emissions are expected during normal operation of combustion sources. However, poor quality fuel, unnecessary idling periods, lack of maintenance, long operation period (particularly power generators) and absence of exhaust emission control units will result in the increase of atmospheric emissions of pollutants.

Generally speaking, the emissions associated with the construction activities, and vehicular exhaust will be of a Moderate effect. This impact is of a high likelihood, yet of a medium to short-term duration (3 years) and reversible nature. Accordingly, with no mitigation measures in




place, this activity is likely to have a Moderate impact (3C) on the overall air quality within the Assessment Area.

However, it is recommended that various mitigation measures be adopted, including: Using continually well designed, maintained and operated equipments / vehicles by the

Contractor. Precautionary control measures for atmospheric emissions reduction could include proper engine fuel mixtures, regularly serviced exhaust emission systems, suitable engine tuning, and purchase of diesel fuel with low sulfur content (5% sulfur content) (whenever available).

Investigating the environmental benefits of employing environmentally friendly equipment by the Contractor such as machinery with higher fuel efficiency or those equipped with air pollution control devices to minimize exhaust emissions. Examples include vehicles equipped with 2 or 3 way catalytic converters;

Avoiding idling vehicles and equipment engines that are left running unnecessarily;

Reporting monthly fuel consumption records;

Adhering to the IFC emission standards for small combustion source emissions (with a capacity of up to 50 megawatt hours thermal (MWth)) as presented in (IFC, 2007b). Combustion source emissions with a capacity of greater than 50 MWth should comply with the IFC EHS Guidelines for Thermal Power.

An implementation of the above mentioned mitigation measures is likely to reduce the effect of exhaust and combustion emissions during site preparation and transport activities to Minor (2C) on the overall air quality within the Assessment Area.

7.3.2 Impacts from Dust Generation

The primary sources of dust generation would be related to construction activities. These sources include a combination of on-site excavation and civil works such as compaction, trenching and backfilling activities and exposure of bare topsoil and spoil piles to wind.

A considerable amount of spoil will be generated during Construction. It is expected that a net of 1.6 million tons will be produced following surface excavations, and drill and blast operations (via heavy rippers and rock breakers) particularly in areas where strong limestone rocks are found close to the surface such as in Joun Area, Wadi Abou Yabes, and Ouardaniye.

Pipelines are expected to be excavated at 2.5 to 3 m; the depth of excavation is expected to vary among the different crossings with existing sensitivities (such as roads and culvert crossings and Ghadir River). In areas where rock (mainly limestone) is not found, the majority of the spoil is expected to consist of sand fill with rocky fragments. With regards to tunnel considerations, the selection of the Tunnel Boring Method (TBM) in lieu of the drill and cut/blast operations (usually adopted for pipelines) enables a rapid progress with an overall reduced construction timeframe. The technique is also associated with less fugitive dust emissions given the nature of the underground construction whereby civil works are carried out below surface




(90 m below ground); as such emissions to the ambient air from drill and blast operations are only expected when establishing the TBMs in the first 100m of each drive.

As such, fugitive dust emissions are expected to arise during Construction from stockpiled spoil, loading and unloading operations at construction sites and planned spoil handling facilities. Further increase in ambient dust levels induced during Project Construction is associated with the movement of trucks transporting produced spoil (entrained dust). The amount of dust generated by the activity is difficult to estimate because of the lack of data to estimate the type and number of operating equipment, number of truck trips and round-trip travel distances. Factors such as vehicle speed, total truck loading, cover availability, ground/road conditions (paved/unpaved) and meteorological conditions among others would influence the amount of fugitive dust emissions released to the atmosphere. Entrained dust (fugitive PM10 emissions) from material and equipment delivery trucks traveling on paved and/or unpaved roads cannot be estimated at this stage.

However, assuming a haulage capacity of 10 – 16 tons per truck (e.g. standard dump truck), the expected overall number of truck trips for spoil transportation (±1.6 million tons) would potentially amount to 160,000 – 100,000 during Construction. At this stage, projected figures should be considered as estimates. The number of vehicle trips is anticipated to be higher taking into account the additional vehicle/truck trips for raw material, equipment and labor transportation.

However, under normal meteorological conditions, dust impacts should be limited to within several hundred meters of the activity areas (access roads, pipeline and tunnel corridors, and construction sites). The main environmental concerns associated with dust generation are likely to be limited to occupational health risk and nuisance to local residents and road commuters and Project affected communities.

Dust emissions could cause respiratory problems and irritation to construction workers and might also have an impact on drivers/commuters from reduced road visibility due to an increase in the light extinction coefficient; dust clouds would increase risk of vehicle collision.

The likelihood for dust generation during site preparation and excavation is high. This impact is of short-term duration however of Significant (4C) impact when no mitigation measures are in place. Consequently, it is concluded that the impacts associated with dust generation are substantive and require adequate mitigation throughout Project Construction and its associated activities.

Techniques for minimizing and preventing fugitive dust emissions during Construction can be accomplished through dust suppression measures. The main dust control measures, which are recommended to be considered, include the following:

Watering-down work area/s (at the tunnel and pipeline corridors, location of surface structures) particularly near sensitive receptors, at spoil handling facilities and during loading and unloading operations.




Efficient scheduling of deliveries as well as establishing and enforcing appropriate speed limits over all paved and unpaved surfaces (< 40 km/h) via a Traffic Management Plan (TMP) approved by the Project Proponent;

Traveling on existing and paved tracks wherever possible.

Maintaining stockpiles at minimum heights and forming long-term stockpiles into the optimum shape (i.e. stabilization) to reduce wind erosion;

Carrying out loading and unloading operations in closed/contained spaces while using dust-suppression methods;

Installing covers (manual and/or mechanical) on back loads of dump trucks and large vehicles before leaving a construction site to reduce as low as possible, if not, prevent, fugitive dust emissions from being released during road transportation and vehicular movement.

Following implementation of the above recommended mitigation measures as well as the Proponent's Safety, Health and Environmental Regulations and Protocols (CDR - SHE Regulations, 1995), the environmental impacts from dust generation due to site preparation, civil works and transportation activities during Construction would be reduced to a Minor effect (2C).




7.4POTENTIAL IMPACTS ON SOIL AND LANDSCAPE

The nature of the proposed Awali-Beirut Water conveyor Project requires extensive and heavy earth-moving activities including mainly drilling and blasting operations as well as tunnel boring works for the construction of the different Project components (such as WTW, storage reservoirs, etc.) and in particular the planned linear structures which comprise:

Two tunnels: Joun to Ouardaniye WTW Tunnel and Ouardaniye WTW to Khalde Tunnel; and

Pipelines: Khalde Portal to Khalde Distribution Chamber; Khalde to Tallet el Khayat Reservoir and Khalde Flow Distribution Chamber to Hadath Reservoirs and Hadath Reservoirs to Hazmieh Reservoirs.

Generally, the landscape in the Assessment Area is characterized by rocky ground conditions, with sediments composed mostly of limestone and dolomitic rocks, hillsides and valleys. The Assessment Area is also intersected by several surface water bodies including Damour River, Ghadir River, and a number of streams/wadis.

Inherently, the major impact anticipated from site clearance, grading and excavation activities on the existing soil (surface quality and integrity) includes the physical disturbance of soil during trenching and site leveling activities; excavation for pipelines are typically 10 m wide and 2.5 to 3 m deep while some deeper excavations might be required particularly at sensitive crossings with roads, culverts, or valleys.

Alternatively, the construction of tunnels will be carried out via a Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) instead of drilling and blasting methods. These conventional hand mining operations are required only for establishing the TBM in the first 100m of each drive. Once below ground (i.e. 90 m), excavations are carried out with minimal disturbance to the surrounding ground and land surface.

As aforementioned, a considerable amount of spoil, estimated at 1.6 million tons, is expected to be generated following drilling/blasting and tunnel boring operations with significant quantities of spoil are anticipated at the start of the tunnel drives at Joun and Khalde, as well as at the Ouardaniye WTW outlet portal.

A breakdown of the quantities of spoil expected at each planned construction site is previously provided in Table 3-24.

Project-related impacts on the existing soil and surrounding landscape are mainly expected during Construction. As abovementioned, heavy earth-moving and mining activities are carried out for the installation of pipelines, tunnels as well as surface infrastructures. Land disturbance due to excavations is minimized by undertaking tunneling works.

Excavated rock and soil spoil are planned to be reused as aggregate supply potentially for road construction and quarry rehabilitation among others depending on spoil characteristics following




mining operations and intended final use. Visual impacts on the surrounding landscape are anticipated to arise during Construction at the different work sites due to erection of surface facilities such as storage reservoirs, chambers, and Water Treatment Works (WTW).

Potential impacts on soil quality from waste generation (wastewater/hydrotest/solid waste), accidental spills and occupational operations are also expected during Construction at the various working areas. Once Construction is completed, the designed uptake, treatment and distribution and regulation system is automated for the most part during Operation. All workshops and construction sites shall be dismantled, restored to previous conditions.

As such, it is more appropriate to consider Project-related environmental impacts on soil and landscape throughout Project Construction. The main impacts on soil quality and landscape of the Assessment Area are generated by the various Construction operations of the Project. These sources of impacts include:

Project footprint, physical disturbance of soil and decreased visual amenity and aesthetics due to site clearance activities, trenching and site leveling activities as well as drilling/blasting and tunneling works;

Solid and liquid waste generation from camp operations (such as sanitary facilities and kitchen) and pipelines pressure testing; and

Potential accidental chemical / oil spills or leaks from excavators and tunnel boring machine.

7.4.1 Impacts of Project Footprint

As mentioned earlier, several excavation, drilling and blasting operations will be conducted on a number of distinct regions to build Project surface facilities and to lay down associated linear structures. Project affected areas consist mainly of degraded lands (hillsides and valleys), and urban / residential areas with existing road infrastructure.

The Project's physical footprint (i.e. disturbance to soil and landscape) resulting from civil and mining works is mainly localized to construction areas and limited to pipeline corridors and tunnel alignments. Additional civil works will be required for the construction and/or upgrade of access roads to the construction sites.

Given the current degraded nature of the Project affected rural areas such as Joun, Wadi Abou Yabes and Khalde, characterized by sparse vegetation (i.e. indicator of land degradation) and a quarry site and since the footprint of construction works is considered localized in these rural areas (washout, distribution chamber, surge structure…), no significant impact is anticipated on surface drainage patterns and land erosion.

In addition, adverse visual impacts induced on the surrounding landscape in these rural areas are limited to the planned locations of the surface infrastructure from construction equipment (concrete batch plant, building/unit erection). The abovementioned surface facilities are designed to occupy small and minor land spaces (with the exception of the Ouardaniye WTW




occupying a larger space); however visual intrusion and alteration to the existing landscape are not expected to be significant given the existing degraded status of the rural lands as well as in the Project affected urban areas (such as Khalde, Hadath, Hazmieh, and Ouardaniye) which are currently subject to on-going construction and civil works.

As such, impacts from visual intrusion and physical disturbance of soil in the project affected sites (particularly urban areas) are inherent to the Project are considered of Minor effect (2C). Impacts are anticipated to be noticed yet short-lived and not affecting any vulnerable environmental receptors given the large area of existing degraded lands on which construction works are planned to take place.

Impacts from the Project's physical footprint on soil and visual environment could be further mitigated by restoring the site topography and landscape as follows;

- Limiting the land clearance area required for pipelines, tunnels and surface structures construction through pre-planning particularly in the vicinity of forested areas of Khalde; Planning and marking access routes and adopting minimum safe operating width and using existing tracks/ routes to reduce the size of the impacted area;

- Minimizing (whenever possible) the time and space of heavy machinery use and constructing intensive activities and using whenever possible existing and previously disturbed land and roads to access site and avoiding off-road driving, areas crossing wadis or that are prone to erosion;

Avoiding excessive removal of topsoil and minimizing grading and clearing of vegetation;

- Stabilization of topsoil and spoil stockpiles along the pipelines previously removed during excavation works and using it as cover material whenever possible during backfilling and site restoration;

Project handover (end of Construction) should comprise the complete closure of the labor camps including the removal of all equipments and vehicles and other fixtures and infrastructures and covering of trenches and restoring of all sites to original state; and

Proper mitigation measures as identified above reduce the impact effect on the soil and visual environment to Negligible (1C).

As aforementioned, land disturbance induced from mining activities and excavation works are limited to the Construction phase. During Operation, no excavation activities are anticipated and therefore impacts on soil from land disturbance are insignificant. However, residual impacts on the visual environment are related to the physical presence of the Project components in particular the surface structures such as the WTW in Ouardaniye, the storage reservoirs in Hazmieh and Hadath, distribution and sampling chamber in Khalde. The change in background landscape features is mostly felt in the Project affected rural areas. Given the minor land space allocated for the surface components and the existing conditions of these areas, such residual impacts on the existing landscape are considered of negligible effect.




7.4.2 Impact on Soil Quality from Blasting Operations

As aforementioned, in areas of strong limestone rocks found at the surface, blasting operations shall be carried out using explosives to enable the construction of surface facilities such as the planned distribution chambers and reservoirs (i.e. Joun regulation structure, Wadi Abou Yabes washout, Hadath and Hazmieh reservoirs).

At this stage, no information is available on the amount and type of explosives to be used during blasting activities. Nonetheless, the use of explosives to perform these planned operations is inherently associated with a high risk of releasing heavy metals to the surrounding soil including the excavated topsoil and rock spoil and as such the likelihood of contaminating the soil quality (top soil and rock spoil) with heavy metals in the proposed blasting locations is relatively high.

In addition to the proposed mitigation measures abovementioned to limit the Project footprint on the soil physical's integrity, it is highly recommended to assess the quality (presence of contamination) of the debris generated prior to further reuse for backfilling, land filling operations and/or quarry rehabilitation.

As part of the management plan for spoil, it was proposed by the Design Team to re-use considerable quantities of spoil, without interim storage, during backfilling and site restoration operations especially at Ouardaniye, Khalde, Damour and along the pipeline corridors (where interim storage sites are not available). In light of the following plan, additional required control and mitigation measures include:

- Reduce the use of blasted debris as much as possible and allow backfilling and site restoration from topsoil and spoil excavated by conventional methods (such as drilling) and generated by the tunnel boring works; and

- Perform a soil sampling campaign in the Project affected areas, specifically where blasting activities took place, in order to document the soil conditions (physic-chemical characteristics, petroleum contamination, etc.) following the cessation of construction works;

7.4.3 Impacts from Solid and Liquid Waste Generation

Waste handling and disposal practices throughout the course of the construction works, site preparation activities and project Operation pose potential risks of soil contamination either through direct contamination (if hazardous) or through the generation of contaminated leachate. The main waste streams expected to be generated by the different Construction operations include:

- Inert solid waste stream (construction waste (concrete, wood, steel, rock spoil ), domestic / putrescibles and packaging and green / organic waste);

- Liquid waste stream (grey water, sanitary wastewater and hydrotest water); and




- Non-inert waste streams (recovered solvents / chemicals, acids, paints, fuel and oils, hydrotest water-if mixed with additives).

During Operation, waste streams are mainly limited to office domestic waste, sanitary wastewater, chemicals (stored at the WTW), fuel oil and sludge waste. Assuming the Ouardaniye WTW will be operated by a maximum staff of 305, it is anticipated that 15 kg of domestic solid and 2.7 m3 of sanitary wastewater will be generated daily.

An additional solid waste stream generated following WTW Operation is Sludge. The daily average sludge flow is estimated at a rate of 4,026 m3; sludge quantity is expected to increase to 10,700 m3 during wet season.

As noted earlier, the bedrock in the Assessment Area consists mainly of fractured dolomitic limestone with karstic features. As such, calcareous soils represent the predominating soil type. Red soils (terra rosa) are also found in certain locations in the Assessment Area primarily in the Ouardaniyeh and Khalde areas. The existing types make the soils not adept at dealing with chemicals and hazardous materials due to their high permeability. The risk of soil contamination and particularly groundwater due to pollutant leaching and infiltration is high specifically in areas of recharge zones whereby groundwater is replenished via rainfall.

Such Project-related impacts on soil quality primarily and groundwater secondary are highly likely to occur predominantly in areas of the planned surface structures such as Ouardaniyeh WTW. When no precautionary mitigation or control measures are in place, unmitigated impacts on soils are considered of Significant effect (4C).

At this stage of the project, the Proponent has in place environmental, health and safety protocols with regulations related to environmental protection and solid waste management.

To minimize the impacts on soil quality and landscape induced from the Project, it is highly recommended that CDR advocates using the principle of the “5Rs” subject to local environmental regulations and availability of resources to handle waste. These “5Rs” are as follows:

- Reduce- Generation of less waste in their original form

- Reuse- Reuse of materials in their original form

- Recycle- Conversion of waste back into a usable material

- Recover- Extraction of materials or energy from a waste for other uses

- Residue- Final disposal for the unavoidable waste residue (in licensed facility – at present, only landfills are available in Lebanon for final disposal).

5 Assuming a generation rate of: 0.5 kg/capita/day of domestic solid waste; and 90l/capita/day of sanitary wastewater.




In general, CDR and its Contractor(s) should ensure a proper documentation procedure of the quantities of all waste streams as well as compliance of the Contractor with the outlines of the proposed waste management plan relevant to the Project.

- Households & Domestic waste (paper, cardboard, organic, etc.):

All personnel shall be responsible for ensuring that standards of “good housekeeping” are maintained. This will include clearance of all rubbish and work associated debris;

CDR shall promote the use of solid waste collection by a local contractor for disposal at a licensed municipal waste facility / landfill;

Sorting at source of domestic and general waste should be implemented. Waste should be sorted into combustible (paper, food, cardboard, and wood) and non-combustible waste (metals, glass, rubble) streams by means of suitably labeled containers for safe collection, segregation and handling of all waste streams generated.

- Hazardous Waste (waste oil, solvents, medical wastes, etc.)

Whenever possible, hazardous waste such as solvents, used batteries, paints, waste oil and medical waste will be sent collected and stored separately for recycling or disposal at a licensed facility. Where no suitable or immediate disposal solution for hazardous waste streams exist, the Contractor should ensure study and source appropriate disposal routes and ensure safe storage. Any new disposal routes for the hazardous waste streams shall be agreed upon with CDR;

Medical waste should be collected separately, labeled and returned to the nearest medical facility for disposal and/or storage; waste oil should be collected and stored in bunded and lined areas.

Details of hazardous waste will be compiled, including type, amount and disposal method, to track final destinations and identify opportunities for improvement.

- Wastewater (black and grey water):

No untreated sanitary wastes or wastewaters generated from the different sources (labor camps, WTW (upon facility operation), etc.) will be discharged to the land or to the permanent surface water bodies (such as rivers, and wadis).

Impacts on soil quality from operational activities with particular reference to sludge disposal, fuel and chemicals handling and storage and wastewater management are discussed in relation to groundwater in section 7.5

With respect to the expected increase in wastewater throughout Greater Beirut as a consequence of increase in water supply, CDR has been expanding the wastewater network throughout the Greater Beirut Area and plans to construct two major wastewater treatment




plants in Khaldeh and Bourg Hammoud with an overall design capacity exceeding 3.2 million-equivalent. The network expansion has been mostly completed and designs for the treatment plants with bidding tenders are at advanced stages. Implementation is awaiting approval of a funding mechanism. The capacity of the existing network and planned treatment plants will accommodate any additional wastewater resulting from the project.

7.4.4 Impacts from Accidental Spills of Fuel, Oil and Chemicals

The major potential sources of accidental spills derive from Project Construction (pipelines and surface structures and facilities), commissioning operations, and ancillary equipment handling (diesel supplies for power generation, chemical storage for WTW requirements). Additional sources of spills include hydrostatic water (if mixed with corrosive chemicals) during commissioning of pipelines and hydraulic oil, fuels and lubricating oil as part of routine maintenance.

The specificity of the site (i.e. soils conditions) and contaminant indicate the severity of repercussions of any type of spill or leakage. The extent and the fate of a pollutant depend on:

- The porosity, permeability, porosity, preferential flow path, and clay and oxides content prevailing in the soil/ unsaturated zone and saturated zone.

- The depth to ground water and soil thickness, type of aquifer (porous versus karstic)

- Density/ viscosity, solubility volatilization, adsorption, biodegradation and bioaccumulation tendency of the contaminant.

Fuel leakages contain BTEX such as benzene and toluene and methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE). Such monocyclic aromatic hydrocarbons have relatively good solubility and volatility. They tend to evaporate from surface spills and biodegrade readily under both aerobic and anaerobic conditions particularly MTBE and benzene. However, diesel spills consist of BTEX; Poly Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAH), chlorinated hydrocarbons as well as heavy metals such as Nickel, Copper, Chromium and Zinc which tend to accumulate in sediments due to their low evaporation and biodegradability capacity. With a decreasing viscosity and surface tension, they penetrate to the subsurface formations and stay trapped within the pores or even travel into deeper zones.

It should be reminded that the pipeline stretches mostly over rock sequence composed of dolomitic limestones. As abovementioned, terra rosa soils are also located in certain locations along the proposed Project affected areas. Both soil types are characterized by a relatively significant degree of permeability.

The likelihood of the occurrence of accidental spills during Construction is Moderate. However, the effect of the impact is considered Significant (4B) when no mitigation is in place, given the soil type and persistence of the pollutants in question.

The occurrence of accidental spills and leaks could be minimized, if not prevented, by the following general mitigation measures:




- Promotion of “good housekeeping” practices during construction and routine inspection procedures and maintenance of equipment for risk minimization;

- Availability of oil spill response kits on the construction sites particularly at the planned surface structures in Ouardaniye to mop up small spills;

- Containment of contaminated soil and preliminary treatment by passing soil trough scalping shakers prior to further treatment; and

- Development of a Project Specific Oil Spill Contingency Plan in addition to the general plan proposed in section 7.4.5 below.

Source-specific mitigation measures consist of:

- Storage: Fuel, oil and chemicals shall be stored in specific designed areas on site particularly on an impermeable base within a suitability contained area.

All storage tanks will be positioned to minimize the risks of damage by impact; All storage tanks will be of sufficient strength and structural integrity; No storage tank will be used for the storage of fuel, oil or chemicals unless its material and construction are compatible with the type of materials to be stored and storage conditions (e.g. pressure and temperature); Drip trays will be installed underneath equipment such as diesel generators, transformers to contain leakage. The drip trays will be maintained and kept drained of rainwater; All fuel and oil will be inventoried and use recorded.

-Refueling: Refueling should be done on lined soils (on impervious membrane). Procedures for refueling include:

- Control and supervision of refueling at all times appropriate personnel,

- Checking to fill valves, hoses and nozzles for signs of wear and tear prior to operation; and

- Checking to tank levels prior to delivery to prevent overfilling through side glass or manually by dipstick logs.

- Locating fill pipes within the containment (unless shut-off valves are fitted); grounding of tanks and vehicles during fuel transfers;

- Ensuring the availability of a supply of suitable absorbent materials at re-fuelling points for use in dealing with minor spills. If a leak or spill occurs during loading or offloading operations, the operations will be stopped and the spill will be contained, cleaned up and collected based on the Spill Response Plan.

- Chemicals: Personnel handling chemicals will be trained in their handling and use and made aware of the associated hazards including the personnel protective equipment requirements through pre-task instruction;




Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for all concerned chemicals will be available at the storage area, the point of use and by the site medical staff and site ES&SR representative; Safety signage will be in place;

All chemical deliveries (loading and unloading operations) shall be supervised at all times and transferred to a secure storage area without delay;

Storage of chemicals will be sited on designated areas at the site; an inventory of all chemicals on site will be kept and use will be recorded. Chemicals shall be properly packaged, labeled and stored. Dangerous/hazard chemicals shall be stored separately;

Chemical storage drums will be in good condition and with sealed bunds. All used drums will be washed down with water and pierced before leaving the site to prevent local use and subsequent exposure to contaminants if they are not able to be returned to the original supplier.

All tanks and containers will be clearly labeled with the nature of the contents and placarded with the MSDS. The storage of chemical products in containers or on palettes equipped with plastic dust cover against severe weather. Chemicals that require shade shall be shaded. Chemical storage drums and packaging are to be returned to the original supplier in an orderly fashion, i.e. palletized and shrink wrapped.

- Diesel: In the field, diesel shall be stored in sealed tanks in bunded areas. CDR and its Contractor shall ensure that the bunds are designed to contain one and half times the total diesel tank volume as to minimize the impacts from possible tank rupture. During the fuel transfer operations, non-return valves shall be installed on fuel transfer hoses and operations shall be supervised at all times by trained personnel. Containment procedure shall be provided to contain any oil spill during fuel transfers to road tankers.

7.4.5 Spill Prevention and Response Plan

In order to decrease the likelihood of spills to occur and mitigate the potential impacts of such incidents in the Project affected areas, the following requirements should be addressed:

- An inventory of hazardous materials, i.e. chemicals and fuels, to be stored on-site along with the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)

- Storage requirements including adequate bunding, storage location, valve locks, check valves, re-fuelling procedures, drip trays;

- Practical mitigation measures for preventing or limiting spills and leaks;

- Trained employees capable of dealing with small scale spill hazards,

- Inspection requirements; and

- The process of spill response.

CDR shall envisage the development of a spill contingency plan by the construction Contractor. In the case of an important spill (>100 L), CDR shall request quick assistance




from specialized authorities in soil remediation directly upon spill reporting by site engineers. In the case of a small spill (<10 L-100 L), containment of spill and contamination could be performed on site by adopting the following:- Immediate reporting of spill to company representative;

- Stopping the source of spill (close valve, seal pipe, seal hole etc…);

- Checking for hazards, flammable matters on site;

- Immediate cleaning of the spill by removing affected top soil layer by trained employees

- Treating the removed soil as hazardous waste;

- Continuous in-situ sampling of soil in the vicinity and underneath the spill for potential contaminant; and

- Adopting as much as possible dry cleaning techniques to decrease resultant wastewater, and to avoid flushing of spills to deeper soil layers.

With the above mitigation measures and contingency plan in place, the potential leaks and spills associated with normal project activities and accidental incidents are expected to have a Low likelihood and Minor effect (2A).

7.5POTENTIAL IMPACTS ON WATER RESOURCES

Water for the project will be sourced from the Karaoun lake and Awali Rivers as was mentioned earlier.

The tunnel extends from Joun to Khalde and crosses the Damour and Ghadir perennial rivers as well as a number of other streams and stream valleys.

With respect to groundwater, only one main aquifer (namely Cenomanian – Turonian) has been located over the whole area under consideration. No permanent spring exists in these formations except below sea level.

The aquifer is karstic in nature and groundwater mainly flows in fissures, fractures and conduits. The overall integrity of the aquifer is not significantly altered by faulting, although it is possible that faults may act either as local aquicludes or alternatively as preferred pathways for groundwater flow. The proposed tunnel will lie above the water table except where siphons are needed (Nahr Damour). Even there it should be noted that the main water table lies below the river level implying some limited recharge to the aquifer from the river, not the other way around.

The strata sometimes contain pockets and cavities, some of which are lined with calcite deposited in vadose zone by groundwater percolating downwards to the water table.

The identified potential sources of impact on water resources from the project include:- Construction activities: Accidental oil spills or infiltration of contaminants during

tunneling boring activities, river crossings and site constructions.




- Operational activities: WTW sludge management, chemical and fuel spills and wastewater disposal.

7.5.1 Impacts from Construction Activities

There is risk of infiltration from contaminants and leaching of liquid discharges (sewage, spills, etc…) through zones where the natural replenishment of groundwater takes place generally through direct or diffuse infiltration of rainfall via the soil and unsaturated zone specifically at sites of surface structure constructions.

As for the tunneling activities, despite that they will be performed in a formation whereby the groundwater lies well below the proposed tunnel level, this does not preclude the possibility of encountering solution-enlarged joints, cavities and pipes, and fault breccias (“shatter-zones”) which may be carrying small quantities of groundwater percolating downwards within the unsaturated vadose zone above the water table. In such events, there will be significant risk of contaminating groundwater if any oil accidentally spills out and infiltrates through the above conduits reaching the groundwater.

Impacts arising from construction activities are considered Significant with a High likelihood of occurrence given the large nature of the aquifer, the large number of site and the length of the tunnel. With no mitigation and control measures in place, the impact is expected to be long-term and irreversible (4C).

In order to reduce the severity of the impact, it is recommended to:

Clean up spills if any with an absorbent material such as cat litter. Chemicals spilled near wells and sinkholes can move directly and rapidly into groundwater. Chemicals spilled near ditches, streams or lakes can move rapidly into surface water.

Develop a contingency plan to prevent potential groundwater contamination Minimize the planned amount of land to be disturbed as much as possible. Use special construction techniques in areas of steep slopes, erodible soils, and stream

crossings. Reclaim or apply protective covering (e.g., vegetative cover) on disturbed soils as quickly

as possible. Avoid creating excessive slopes during excavation and blasting operations. Monitor construction near aquifer recharge areas to reduce potential contamination of

the aquifer. Disposal of excess excavation materials in approved areas to control erosion and

minimize leaching of hazardous materials. Impose site-specific Best Management Practices, potentially including silt fences, hay

bales, vegetative covers, and diversions, to reduce impacts to surface water from the deposition of sediments beyond the construction areas.

Immediate implementation of the Oil spill response plan in case of accidental events (i.e. Passing water resulting from tunneling and excavation through oil separator prior to discharge in the event that it has been contaminated with oily residues).




By putting the control measures proposed in the feasibility study in place, the potential effects on water resources from construction phase is anticipated to be Minor (2B) and its occurrence Medium.

7.5.2 Impacts from Operational Activities

Once the project is operational, 250,000 m3 of water will flow daily to Greater Beirut to complement other water resources and meet the city’s water demand for the coming five years.

The supply of such quantity will limit or even cease the exploitation of water from wells in Damour and other areas in the southern suburbs and thus limit the extent of sea water intrusion and allow natural recharge of groundwater. The operational phase is then expected to have a beneficial impact on water resources but adverse impacts can still arise from operations if not managed properly. These are summarized by the following:

- Sludge disposal management

- Fuel and chemicals handling and storage

- Wastewater management

- Retrieval of 3m3/s of water from the existing tunnel

Sludge generation disposal management

The key potentially significant adverse impact during operation of the project will be the need to re-use or dispose of sludge from the water treatment works. A yield of 4,026 m3/d (reaching 10,700 m3/d in the wet season) is expected from the Ouardaniye WTW. A sludge treatment process has been proposed and designed for the WTW in the feasibility study of 2010. This involves thickening and dewatering the generated sludge followed by re-use of the separated water at the treatment or dumping it into the Wadi. It is recommended here to stick to the option of re-using the water at the inlet of the plant and avoid dumping it into the Wadi and eventually the sea. As for the resulting dewatered sludge cake, The original design and corresponding EIA found that the optimal alternative for sludge disposal will be at a rehabilitated nearby quarry. However, this alternative is associated with potential adverse impacts on soil, groundwater, and surface water unless proper control measures are implemented and would require conducting an independent EIA for approval which can be done in the future if this alternative is adopted. The updated ESIA is recommending the sludge disposal at the existing Naameh landfill which is under a management contract with CDR. The dewatered sludge cake yield is expected to be around 75 tons/d. Dry solids in the sludge cake will be 230*4*12*0.97= 10,708 kg/d (10.8 tons/d). Dry solids will not change unless the solids capture of the machine changes or more solids are produced from the liquid process due to higher turbidity, higher chemical dosage…etc. It is the wet sludge amount that will change with respect to dewatered sludge concentration and cake density. So for average conditions, the dry solids in the sludge cake will be approximately 11 tons/d and the wet sludge will be in the range of 58 m3/d to 73 m3/d dependant on the cake concentration (12-18%) for a density of 1200 kg/m3. The Naameh landfill currently receives




more than 2000 tons of waste per day with plans for future expansion. Disposing the above amount into the Naameh landfill is not expected to cause any problems. CDR has approved this alternative.

By adopting the process proposed in the feasibility study in place, the potential effects from sludge generation and disposal during operation on water resources is anticipated to be Negligible (1C) and no further mitigation measures are deemed necessary

Fuel and chemicals handling and storage

Another potential impact during operation would be that leakage of chemicals and fuel oil at the site of Ouardaniye treatment plant. The description of storage capacity in the feasibility study shows that care has been taken for assuring that all chemical and fuel storage tanks will be well bunded. However, accidental spills during chemical transfer or refueling of tankers might still cause an adverse impact.

By putting the control measures proposed in the feasibility study in place, the potential effects on water resources from fuel and chemicals during operation is anticipated to be Moderate (3C) and its occurrence high.

Mitigations measures that can be adopted to avoid impacts from accidental spills include: Selecting appropriate locations for septic tanks installation as to avoid leakage and

contamination of groundwater. Liners should be placed to prevent groundwater contamination in areas designated to hold septic tanks or wastewater pits. Storing mixed wastewater should also be done in these areas or in the presence of liners.

Immediate cleaning of the spill by removing affected top soil layer by trained employees

Continuous in-situ sampling of soil in the vicinity and underneath the spill for potential contaminant; and

Stopping the source of spill (close valve, seal pipe, seal hole etc…);

In the event of effluent (following sludge dewatering) discharge into the Wadi, the former should comply with the Lebanese new standards for discharge into receiving water bodies (Decision no. 8/1)

Refueling in a designated fueling area that includes a temporary berm to limit, if not prevent, the spread of any spill.

Use drip pans during refueling to contain accidental releases and under fuel pump and valve mechanisms of any bulk fueling vehicles parked at the project site.

Adhere to the CDR safety, health and environmental regulations and to chemical, fuel storage.

By adopting the proposed control measures, the impacts on water resources chemicals and fuel spills would be Negligible (1C).




Wastewater (sanitary, process) management

It is estimated that there will be 90 L / crew member of wastewater generated daily equating to a maximum of 2250 L / day from the WTW operations and sanitary facilities (assuming all 25 crew members). The other surface components of the project will be unmanned.

Improper disposal of generated wastewater could result in groundwater contamination with chemical and biological contaminants. Secondary impacts from inadequate mixed wastewater discharge and storage can generate odor and attract flies and incidence of associated vector diseases which might adversely impact workers and local settlers.

The potential effects on water resources from wastewater discharge during Operation are anticipated to be Moderate (3C) and its occurrence high.

Mitigation measures to further minimize impacts during Operation include: CDR should commission a local contractor for the collection of domestic wastewater and

disposal to nearest public sewerage network.

Adopting as much as possible dry cleaning techniques to decrease resultant wastewater, and to avoid flushing of spills to deeper soil layers.

Develop a stormwater management plan to ensure compliance with regulations and prevent off-site migration of contaminated stormwater.

By adopting the proposed control measures, the impacts on groundwater contamination from pesticide use would be Negligible (1C).

Retrieval of 3m3/s of water from the existing tunnel

The retrieval of 3m3/s of water between Joun Lake and Joun HEP, is not expected to cause adverse effect on the generation of electricity. Water was allocated to Greater Beirut by a presidential decree since 1970. It was diverted to the downstream stretch of the Awali because the Project was not implemented at the time. Otherwise the diverted water is not part of the Awali river flow.The design of the Joun HEP constructed post that date took into consideration the retrieval of this amount of water in the future from the existing tunnel connecting the Joun Lake with the HEP. The operational plan of the three HEPS, Markaba, Awali and Joun are placed ahead depending on needs. Following this plan, the water is collected accordingly in Joun and Annan Lake to meet the demand. According to the Litani River Authority, the retrieval of 3m3/s will definitely be accounted and compensated for in the upstream planning.As for the section of Awali downstream the HEP, there will be no direct impact on agricultural lands on sides of the river that are using its water for irrigation purposes. The amount of flow diverted back to the river is fully in control of the HEP despite the retrieval of the amount required for the Awali Project. According to the Litani River Authority, the diverted flow ranges from 4 to 30 m3/s. There has never been any complaint related to scarcity of water from the side of local farmers even during minimal levels of diverted flow.




In Winter there will be no impact considering a flow of 30 m3/s. In summer a potential adverse impact might arise at the expense of making potable water available to a larger segment of the Beirut area.

By looking at the above analysis of the existing scheme upstream and downstream the Joun HEP, the impact from retrieval of the 3m3/s of water during Operation is anticipated to be Negligible (1B).

Apart from the project impacts on water resources, it should be noted that existing infrastructure such as the Naameh landfill could impact the project itself and threaten the quality of supplied water. This could occur in the event of leakage leachate downstream towards the tunnel.

Monitoring wells have been placed downstream the landfill to monitor water and detect any leakage. Regular monitoring reports are being submitted to CDR. According to CDR; no leakage of contaminants has ever been reported. This matter will be further investigated and documents supporting the above statement shall be provided in the final ESIA report.

Measures such as concrete lining of the tunnel have already been considered in the design of the tunnel, however, further mitigation measures should be planned for this strip of the tunnel, and these could include:

Regular review of the data of monitoring wells upstream the strip of the tunnel lying downstream the land fill;

Giving additional consideration for the subject strip during maintenance of the tunnel;

Checking for any fissures or fractures in the tunnel wall during maintenance.

7.6POTENTIAL IMPACTS ON BIODIVERSITY

As described in previous sections, the Project's Construction phase involves as sequence of extensive heavy earth-moving activities including mainly site clearance, grading, grounding as well as mining operations (drilling/ blasting) and tunneling works so as to build the Project's land-based surface structures and underground linear facilities.

Similar to the Assessment Area's existing environmental receptors (soil, landscape and visual environment among others), Project-related environmental impacts on biodiversity, specifically on the floral cover, are anticipated during Construction principally due to site clearing and excavation activities while no major adverse impacts are anticipated during Operation given the automated nature of most components of the Project and the type of the proposed development.

During Construction, the potential negative impacts are listed in the following Table 7-60.

Table 7-60 Potential Negative Impacts on Biodiversity

IMPACT CAUSE

Habitat loss or destruction Construction works




IMPACT CAUSE

Altered abiotic/site factors Soil compaction, erosionMortality of individuals Destruction of vegetation (Planted fruit trees)Loss of individuals through emigration

Following disturbance or loss of habitat

Habitat fragmentationHabitat removal and/or introduction of barriers like roads

DisturbanceDue to construction noise, traffic, or presence of people

Altered species compositionChanges in abiotic conditions, habitats (not present in this case)

Vegetation lossSoil contamination due to disposal of oils and waste material

In reference to the baseline ecological conditions, a series of site visits was carried out to document the overall potentially affected ecosystems (if any anticipated) by the Project and to assess the status of the existing floral biodiversity at the different planned construction sites:

Joun Regulation Structure

Washout – Wadi Abou Yabes

Ouardaniye WTW

Nahr Damour Siphon/Washout

Khalde Surge Shaft

Khalde Tunnel Portal

Khalde Flow measurement and tunnel chamber

Pipeline – Khalde Portal to Khadle Flow Distribution Chamber

Khalde Distribution / Connection Chambers

Hadath 125 Reservoir

Hadath 90 Reservoir

Hazmieh 90 Reservoir

The planned construction sites fall within the Inferior Mediterranean or Thermomediterranean zones on a calcareous soil in the Carob- Mastic series (for the majority of the sites), the Quercus calliprinos Webb. series (Nahr Damour Siphon/Washout) and Pinus brutia Ten series for the Khalde Flow measurement and tunnel chamber.




The trees formation in the majority of the sites (Carob- Mastic series) take the form of garigues composed mainly by Pistacia lentiscus L., Myrtus communis L., and less frequently by Ceratonia

siliqua L. This series is sometimes presented by Pinus halepensis Mill. and Pinus brutia Ten.

The first degradation stage of this series is composed by tall garigues dominated by Calicotome

villosa (Vahl) Link and in localized areas Rhus tripartita (Ucria) D.C. In areas that are more degraded, garigues of Poterium spinosum L. and Phlomis viscosa Poir. are present in rocky places.

Generally, the different planned construction sites do not affect any area of special concern, such as those designated as having national or international importance (e.g. world heritages, wetlands, biosphere reserve, wildlife refuge, or protected areas), or lead to the extinction of endangered and endemic species.

With the exception of some important species (i.e. native) found in some of the surveyed sites, the majority of the encountered species are ornamental, medicinal and/or edible. An inventory of the species found was made site per site. It should be noted that the inventory listed only the species pertaining to this particular ecological stage and whose habitat corresponds more or less to the local settings in section 7.3.

Furthermore, the planned Project infrastructures in the rural areas are, in general, expected to be built in already degraded areas (e.g., Joun, washout points at Damour valley) and with some locations such as Wadi Abou Yabes representing a quarry site whereby the ecosystem is already adversely impacted.

As for the sites; Khalde (surge shaft and tunnel portal, pipeline corridor, distribution chambers), Hadath and Hazmieh (reservoirs' construction location) situated in the urban areas and whereby other construction activities are on-going, they are also considered highly degraded areas characterized by an insignificant biodiversity.

In such locations, the potential negative impacts are considered of Negligible (1C) effect since the Project largely affects degraded lands hence not affecting the native ecosystem of the Assessment Area and its immediate surroundings.

However, in some locations, though partly degraded, such as Ouardaniye, are rich in floral species (majority are common) with orchids documented in large amounts. Additional locations of particular significance include Nahr Damour Siphon/Washout (sanded area and area near bridge) and Khalde Flow measurement and tunnel chamber which are characterized by densely forested lands in their surroundings. Project-related impacts with regards to the local biodiversity in these areas relate to the total loss of trees (damage to the forested areas) and native species whereby the conifers Pinus brutia Ten., Pinus halepensis Mill. and Cupressus sempervirens L. are the most abundant formation.

Due to the importance of these ecological systems particularly in Khalde (area around flow measurement and tunnel chamber) and part of the Damour River (outskirt of existing




recreations) and Ouardaniye and the required site clearance activities, impacts are considered of Moderate effect (3C) when no control measures are adopted during Construction particularly around these forested areas.

Mitigation measures to minimize the impacts on the local flora and vegetation include:- Preparing an inventory of the plants found in and around the following three sensitive

sites, Nahr Damour, Ouardaniye WTW and Khalde flow measurement and sampling chamber. This would be a reference to keep track of all present species highlighting the most endemic and important and those which should be reintroduced following Construction;

- Limiting vehicular transport to defined roads as to prevent unnecessary damage to vegetation;

- Preserving top soil excavated by conventional methods (such as drilling);

- Avoiding introducing invasive plant species (e.g. weeds).

- All affected areas must be replanted with indigenous species appropriate to the respective sites, by agreement with ecological experts. Provisions for the availability for such plants should be ensured throughout the Project program.

- Special effort and attention should be given to the following sites: Ouardaniye WTW, Nahr Damour Siphon/Washout and Khalde Flow measurement and tunnel chamber; and

- Developing an ecosystem rehabilitation plan to regenerate and reintroduce some of the native species of trees (especially at the most degraded areas) present in the studied area, therefore leading to great positive impacts on biodiversity.

- The planted trees can be either native but not found in the site such as Pinus pinea, Laurus nobilis, Cercis siliquastrum, Spartium junceum, Cupressus sempervirens etc. or native and found in the site as listed in Section 7.3.

With the proposed mitigation measures in place, the likelihood of the impact will be reduced to Medium and its effect to Minor (2B).

7.7POTENTIAL IMPACTS ON ARCHEOLOGY AND CULTURAL HERITAGE

In reference to the local archeology along in the Assessment Area, previous studies have been carried out to assess the archeological sensitivity in the Project affected areas via literature review and field surveys (Samir Rebeiz, 1997). Particular concern has been given to the Khalde and Shuweifat areas.

With the exception of the Khan Khlade ruins (Tell – archeological mound) located outside the Assessment Area, no archeological sensitivities are known to exist in the Project affected areas, whether rural or urban (Matgomery Watson, 1998). It is noted that Joun, Ouardaniyeh, Damour River, Hadath and Hazmieh lack archeological or historical interests.




Generally, direct and indirect impacts during Construction associated with the project on cultural heritage and archeological sites include construction works which require the physical excavation (blasting, site clearance, trenching etc.) causing potentially the demolition, alteration of or damage to archaeological resources, whether on surface or below-ground.

Given the absence of archeological evidence in the Assessment Area, Project-related impacts on the local archeology are considered Negligible (1A) of insignificant effect.

Due to the nature of the archeological evidence in Khalde, which could potentially indicate the existence of archeological ruins along the coastal strip, the following preventive measures are proposed:

- Prepare a brochure to help crew members recognize any discovery of buried antiquities;

- Direct reporting to local authorities in case of new findings during Construction and proper documentation of historic sites; ensure close coordination with the Directorate General of Antiquities (DGA).

7.8POTENTIAL SOCIO-ECONOMIC IMPACTS

Given the nature of the project which will improve the water supply across the Greater Beirut Area, it is generally envisaged that the overall social and economic impacts will be positive.

However, the project is likely to generate social and economic alterations during both construction and operational phases. These are estimated to be both of adverse and beneficial nature.

7.8.1 Impacts From Construction Phase

During the construction phase, the major negative impacts on the socio-economic characteristics of the area would arise from:

Expropriation of land (land take);

Temporary nuisance from construction noise;

Temporary dust emissions; and

Temporary traffic and severance / disturbance of public rights-of-way and access to community resources and services.

Impacts from Land Expropriation

Expropriation for the project falls under two categories, 1) Full expropriation of land whereby surface structures are to be constructed and 2) establishment of right of way along lots whereby the tunnel is passing underneath.

With respect to the first category, major expropriation procedures have been completed by CDR to acquire the required surface areas and most of sites related to the surface structures have been taken over and land owners have been compensated for their land following the Lebanese expropriation law as illustrated in Appendix J.




Cadastral survey and lots identification are being carried out to prepare expropriation Decree files for the remaining lands with surface structures and those falling under categories 2.

The main impacts expected to arise from future expropriations of land falling under category 1 include permanent and irreversible loss of land and some loss of agricultural greenhouses (agricultural business).

Apart from minor agriculture businesses, there will be no loss of any kind of other businesses nor physical resettlement of people as was checked during the social field survey.

With respect to land falling under category 2, there will not be actual land take or disturbance of the surface land use. However, there will be restrictions applied to their lots depending on depth of tunnel beneath such as prohibition of placing deep foundation and prohibition of drilling wells.

The impact from land expropriation is considered Significant with a high likelihood of occurrence (4C).

Recommended mitigation measures to minimize the impacts include the following: Consultation with potentially affected communities prior to expropriation procedures;

Fair and full compensation for land and other assets expropriated for the project in the public interest as stated in the Lebanese expropriation law.

Compensation to local farmers who lost their agricultural lands (loss of livelihood);

Preparation of a Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) (ongoing) as per the World Bank standards. This aims at identifying the mitigation measures to be taken and specifies the legal and institutional framework responsibilities that, together, will ensure that all losses incurred by the taking of land are fully compensated and do not face any kind of diminution of livelihoods or assets.

By applying the above recommended measures, the impacts are reduced to a Medium likelihood of Moderate effect (3B).Impacts from construction noise

Noise is generated by different sources during Construction. The most important sources are machinery, transport vehicles, and earthmoving equipment. Blasting activities (e.g. explosives) are also considered point sources for noise generation for this project due to the predominantly rocky ground features of the sites. Noise is considered an issue because of the impact that noise emissions have on the quality of life for members of the public living or working nearby.

The main sources of noise associated with the transportation activities include the delivery of primarily material. Typical noise levels associated with trucks are reported at 74 dB(A) according to the British Standard for Noise and Vibration Control on Construction and Operation Sites (BS5228:1997). These levels are normal in general construction sites (that can go up to 85-90 dB(A).




The noise impacts are considered temporary in nature. Typical sound level pressures recorded from various equipments at a construction site are illustrated in Table 7-61 for indicative purposes.

Table 7-61 Typical Sound Pressure Levels Reported from Construction Equipment (BS5228:1997)

CONSTRUCTION TYPE MACHINES NOISE LEVEL (DBA)*

Earth Moving Compactors 78Front Loaders / Bull Dozers 88Backhoes 76Tractors 71Scrapers 82Caterpillar Graders 84Pavers 74Dump Trucks 74Excavators 78

Material Handling Concrete Mixer 76Concrete Pumps 81Cranes 81

Stationary Pumps 82Generators 82Compressors 85

Noise levels of 85 to 90 dB(A) Leq would not be unusual close to the main activity areas. These levels would however fall to between 50 to 56 dB(A) at 500 meters from the work area based on previous experiences. Construction activities are likely to be confined to daytime and noise and the noise levels will only affect potential receptors for a relatively short time.

Noise impacts will arise through either noise and/or vibration changes or through exceeding allowable noise levels/limits. Different impacts may arise at the different resources and receptors, the impacts will therefore be considered on an individual basis.

Potential noise and vibration impacts during construction include: Noise and vibration from activities carried out on the surface (including station works);

and

Noise associated with off-site heavy vehicle and other type of heavy moving equipment that will be used to transport materials to construction sites and remove or relocate excess excavated material;

The likelihood for noise impacts to occur is High (C). With no control measures in place, the impacts associated with this activity will be of short-term duration and of Minor effect (2C) and will require mitigation.

The following measures can be considered in order to control and or minimize the noise impacts:




Fitting all machinery and vehicles effective exhaust silencers;

Maintaining all machinery and vehicles in good repair and in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

Limit the working hours when near sensitive sites (schools, residential units, , etc.);

Proper selection of equipment for the specific task considering the lowest sound power level;

Maintenance of equipment as not to create unnecessary noise owing to mechanical problems;

Operation of equipment in a manner considerate to the ambient noise background;

Avoidance of leaving equipment idling unnecessary;

Elimination of tonal, impulsive or low frequency noise through noise control engineering techniques where feasible (e.g. dampers, fitting of mufflers, etc.);

Provision of alternative methods if necessary (substituting hammering actions with hydraulics);

Provision by the Contractor of adequate buffer zone with sensitive populations in the Assessment Area; and

Mandatory use of noise plugs during noisy activities.

By adopting the above proposed mitigation measures (buffer zones), the noise impact is predicted to become Negligible and reversible (shutdown and elimination of noise sources). Accordingly the impact is foreseen to be Negligible (1B).Impacts from dust emissions

The primary sources of dust generation would be related to construction and project handover activities. These sources include a combination of on-site excavation and civil works such as compaction, trenching and backfilling activities, contact of construction machinery with uncovered soil and exposure of bare soil and soil piles to wind. These activities are expected to result in the disturbance of surface soil hence increasing the atmospheric dust levels. Other sources of emissions may consist of exhaust from diesel engines of earth moving equipment, as well as from open burning of solid waste on-site. Impact from dust emissions were discussed in Section 7.3.2.Impacts from Traffic during construction

Construction of the surface structure sites as well as the tunneling activities will require involvement of heavy traffic including machinery, labor transport buses and cars. These are expected to cause increase in traffic towards and from proposed sites of construction. This will have definitely an adverse impact on the local community living nearby the construction sites.

Having a measurable effect on the livelihood during the anticipated three years of construction and a High likelihood to occur, the impact from traffic during construction is rated as Significant (4C).




The following measures can be put in place in order to minimize the adverse effects:

Liaising with community and government by a dedicated resource in the field throughout the duration of the project (i.e. establishing a complaint register to document potential public complaints. The register should include 1) A description of the complaint; 2)Time and date; 3) Name, address and contact details of the person complained and 4) Actions taken to address the complaint with assigned timeframe for completion

Clearly identify the project footprint to avoid accidents during further development of the area particularly in the designated and construction sites.

- Having a Traffic Management Plan (TMP);

- Allowing only certified and trained drivers to carry out transportation related activities;

- Having an Emergency Response Procedures in place; and

- Having a maintenance program to all vehicles associated with construction activities.

By applying the above recommended measures, the impacts are reduced to a Medium likelihood of Moderate effect (3B).

Moreover during the construction phase, direct positive impacts are anticipated and include: Creation of new job opportunities, purchasing of goods and supplies to serve the camp

and logistic support could have indirect positive impacts on neighboring villages.

Support for development and growth in the region and Lebanon’s economy by creating opportunities for local businesses in the supply of goods and services; and

Creation of opportunities for local businesses in the supply of goods and services.

By creating job opportunities for locals during civil works, providing rental lodgings for laborers and catering services (selling of local products), anticipated impacts would be considered short-term yet Beneficial.

7.8.2 Impacts From Operational Phase

The project is expected to bring overall benefits to the public through provision of sustainable water supply and proper distribution network. Villages along the tunnels will also benefit from the supplied water through designated points for connection to local distribution networks.

The existing wastewater infrastructure in Greater Beirut will be rehabilitated and improved to absorb the increased supply in water. About 187 km of network pipelines are to be installed and rehabilitated across Greater Beirut. Moreover, the additional supply expected to meet the City’s demand for the future will limit the exploitation and distribution of brackish water that was causing corrosion of deterioration of pipelines in regions suffering from seawater intrusion.

Other direct positive impacts can also be anticipated and these include creation of job opportunities for operational purposes such as the treatment plant and maintenance of the chambers and tunnel.




One of the main potential long-term negative impacts arising from the operational phase is related to noise generation at the Ouardaniye treatment plant and the designated pumping stations associated with the distribution network ion Greater Beirut.

The average noise level in the Ouardaniye WTW is 52dB(A), with maximum reaching up to 72dB(A) and minimum being 43dB(A). High values are mainly due to passing traffic, mosques' call for prayer, air traffic and the local Sibline Cement Factory which is nearby on the opposite side of the valley.

As for the pumping stations to be associated with water reservoirs, they are generally located in highly urbanized areas whereby baseline noise levels can reach up to 70 dB(A) or more depending on the type of on-going activities.

Being of high noise levels at baseline conditions, the above described areas are not expected to suffer from significant impact from noise generation. The impact is rather rated as Moderate (3C) with high Likelihood to occur.

To minimize additional noise generation at the mentioned sites, the following measures are proposed:

Fitting all equipment and pumps with effective exhaust silencers

Proper selection of pumps for the specific task considering the lowest sound power level; and,

Maintenance of pumping stations as not to create unnecessary noise owing to mechanical problems

Insulating generator rooms and engines.

By adopting the above proposed mitigation measures, the noise impact during operation is predicted to become Negligible (1B).Another potential adverse impact is that of the retrieval of 3m3/s of water between Joun Lake and Joun HEP, which possibly affect other water uses and users in the area. This has been discussed earlier in Section 7.5.2

7.9SUMMARY OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL & SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT BEFORE AND AFTER MITIGATION

Table 7-62 summarizes the impacts of the Project on its surrounding environment assuming no mitigation measures are undertaken in an Environmental Impact Severity Matrix (EISM) whereas Table 7-63 presents the EISM of the project when control and mitigation measures are adopted.


FINAL REPORT COUNCIL FOR DEVELOPMENT AND RECONSTRUCTION (CDR)ESIA FOR AWALI-BEIRUT WATER CONVEYER PROJECT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

Table 7-62 Environmental Impact Assessment without mitigation measures


Unmitigated Impacts

Receptor

Air

Qua

lity

Land

scap

e

and

Soil

QU

ALIT

Yw

ater

RESO

URC

ES

Biod

iver

sity

Noi

se

Arch

eolo

gica

l

Soci

o-

Econ

omic

&






Consttruction works 4C 2C 2B

Excavation and tunneling works 4C 4C 4C 3C 2C 1A 2B

Blasting 4C 4C 4C Solid and Liquid waste generation 4C 4C


Chemicals

4B 4C

Land Expropriation 4C

Traffic 4C 4C

Operation Phase C

Combustion and Exhaust Emissions Open Burning of solid waste Solid and Liquid waste generation 4C 3C 4C


Chemicals

3C

Sludge Generation 1C Water Pumps 3C 3C

Retrieval of 3m3/s of water upstream

Joun HEP

1C 1C

Trafffic 2B 2BLEGEND

Consequences Likelihood Acceptability1 - Negligible

4 – Significant A – Low Beneficial

2 - Minor 5 – Catastrophic

B – Medium

Negligible with minor mitigation

3 - Moderate

Beneficial C – High Minimize Impacts

Unacceptable


FINAL REPORT COUNCIL FOR DEVELOPMENT AND RECONSTRUCTION (CDR)ESIA FOR AWALI-BEIRUT WATER CONVEYER PROJECT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

Table 7-63 Environmental Impact Assement with mitigated measures


Mitigated Impacts

Indicator

Air

Qua

lity

Land

scap

e an

d So

il Q

ualit

y

wat

er

Reso

urce

s

Biod

iver

sity

Noi

se

Arch

eolo

gica

l

Soci

o-Ec

onom

ic &

Pu

blic

hea

lth






Consttruction works 2C 1B 1B

Excavation and tunneling works 2C 2C 2B 2B 1B 1A 1B

Blasting 2C 2C 2B

Solid and Liquid waste generation 2A 2A


Chemicals

2A 2B

Land Expropriation 3B

Traffic 3B 3B

Operation Phase C



Solid and Liquid waste generation 2A 1C 2A


Chemicals

1C


Water Pumps 1B 1B

Retrieval of 3m3/s of water

upstream Joun HEP

1C 1C

Trafffic 1C 1CLEGEND

Consequences Likelihood Acceptability1 - Negligible 4 – Significant A – Low Beneficial2 - Minor 5 –

CatastrophicB – Medium Negligible with minor

mitigation3 - Moderate C – High Minimize Impacts

Unacceptable


FINAL REPORT COUNCIL FOR DEVELOPMENT AND RECONSTRUCTION (CDR)ESIA FOR AWALI-BEIRUT WATER CONVEYER PROJECT ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

8. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN8.1INTRODUCTION

This section presents the proposed Environmental Management Plan (EMP) for the Awali- Beirut Water Conveyor Project. The EMP summarizes the main impacts and control measures that were identified in the Impact Assessment section, particularly:

Mitigation measures to be implemented during the construction and operation phases;

References to Control Guidelines and Standards;

Responsibilities for the Implementation of the Plan;

Verification, Monitoring and Training requirements; and

Record Keeping and Documentation Requirements.

The overall objectives of the EMP are 1) to ensure the Project’s compliance with Lebanese legislation and CDR’s requirements; 2) to provide a basis to carry out monitoring activities and compliance inspection programs; and 3) to support the Contractor, CDR and relevant stakeholders in the implementation of mitigation and monitoring plans. The EMP may be revised and modified throughout the Project lifetime.

8.2ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN (ESMP)This section comprises a priority list of the most important measures that CDR should adopt to ensure a practical, cost-effective and appropriate approach to impact mitigation. However most of these measures are already included in the CDR’s HSE regulations.

All the proposed mitigation measures shall be implemented by the contractor as part of the contract requirement and clauses, thus it should be included in the Tender documents. It is also highly recommended that contractors be required to prepare a Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) that reflects how the contractor intends to implement the EMP during construction. An outline of a CEMP that contractors could follow is proposed in Appendix K. The tender documents should also be formulated in a way to secure the implementation of the EMP, by for example requesting a specific cost for implementation. Experience has shown that Lebanese contractors have very limited experience in implementing EMPs. Also the enabling environment for EMP implementation, including enforcement of its implementation, is generally weak, leading to a loose implementation of such management plans.

Proposed mitigations for construction & operation impacts are summarized in Table 8-64 and to ensure that the residual adverse impacts resulting from the works will be reduced to an acceptable level, whilst maximizing the benefits of the project. In addition, the ESMP identifies additional measures to be implemented during the construction and operation phases of the project

PREPARED BY ELARD 1


Table 8-64 Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP)

PROJECT ACTIVITY


IMPACTS



COST ESTIMATE

CONSTRUCTION ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN (CESMP)SITE CLEARANCE/ EXCAVATION

DRILLING/BLASTING, PIPELINE CONSTRUCTION AND TUNNEL BORING WORKS (TO A LESSER EXTENT)

SOLID AND LIQUID WASTE GENERATION FROM CAMP OPERATIONS (SUCH AS SANITARY FACILITIES AND KITCHEN) AND PIPELINES PRESSURE TESTING)

ACCIDENTAL CHEMICAL / OIL SPILLS OR LEAKS (FROM EXCAVATORS

DISTURBANCE TO LAND/LANDSCAPE (LAND SCARING FROM PROJECT FOOTPRINT)

COMPROMISED VISUAL AMENITY

CONTAMINATION OF SOIL QUALITY.

Limiting the land clearance area required for pipelines in the vicinity of forested areas of Khalde; Planning and marking access routes and adopting minimum safe operating width Using existing tracks/ routes to reduce the size of the impacted area; Minimizing (whenever possible) the time and space of heavy machinery use and constructing intensive activities and using whenever possible existing and previously disturbed land and roads to access site and avoiding off-road driving, areas crossing wadis or that are prone to erosion; Avoiding excessive removal of topsoil and minimizing grading and clearing of vegetation;Stabilization of topsoil and spoil stockpiles along the pipelines previously removed during excavation works and using it as cover material whenever possible during backfilling and site restoration;A preliminary project handover and restoration plan should be developed that identifies disposal options for all equipment and materials, including products used and wastes generated on site;Project handover (end of Construction) should comprise the complete closure of the labor camps including the removal of all equipments and vehicles and other fixtures and infrastructures and covering of trenches and restoring of all sites to original state.Reduce the use of blasted debris as much as possible and allow backfilling and site restoration from topsoil and spoil excavated by conventional methods (such as drilling) and generated by the tunnel boring works;

IMPLEMENTATION: CONTRACTOR.SUPERVISION: ESM

No cost incurred

PREPARED BY ELARD 2


PROJECT ACTIVITY


IMPACTS



COST ESTIMATE

AND TUNNEL BORING MACHINE)

Perform a soil sampling campaign in the Project affected areas, specifically where blasting activities took place, in order to document the soil conditions (physic-chemical characteristics, petroleum contamination, etc.) following the cessation of construction works

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTANT (TO BE HIRED BY CDR)

1500

LOADING AND UNLOADING OPERATIONS (AT CONSTRUCTION SITES AND SPOIL HANDLING FACILITIES)

TRUCK TRANSPORTATION (HAULAGE)

OPERATION OF ON-SITE DIESEL-FUELLED GENERATORS

INCREASE IN AMBIENT DUST LEVELS(FUGITIVE DUST EMISSIONS)

INCREASE IN COMBUSTION/EXHAUST EMISSIONS (RELEASE OF COMBUSTION GASES, NOX, CO2,SO2, CO)

All vehicles, plant and equipment engines shall be properly maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions to maximize combustion efficiency and minimize emissions; Usage of vehicles/machines equipped with exhaust emission control units;All trucks transporting material likely to generate dust should be properly covered according to Lebanese requirements;Maintenance and reporting of monthly fuel consumption records;

Any machinery, which is intermittent in use, should be shut off in periods of non use or, where this is impracticable to be throttled back to a minimum;Small combustion source emissions (with a capacity of up to 50 megawatt hours thermal (MWth)) should adhere to the IFC emission standards for exhaust emissions in the General EHS Guidelines and MoE Decision 8/1 of 2001, whichever stricter;Combustion source emissions with a capacity of greater than 50 MWth should comply with the IFC EHS Guidelines for Thermal Power; Implement proper dust control measures. Measures will include the damping down of dust if excavations are occurring in high winds, rig dust suppression units and the covering piles of excavated material to prevent


NO COST INCURRED

PREPARED BY ELARD 3


PROJECT ACTIVITY


IMPACTS



COST ESTIMATE

mobilization (with nets or matting);Efficient scheduling of deliveries as well as establishing and enforcing appropriate speed limits over all paved and unpaved surfaces (< 40 km/h) via a Traffic Management Plan (TMP) approved by the Project Proponent.

DRILLING/BLASTING, PIPELINE CONSTRUCTION

VEHICULAR MOVEMENT AND EQUIPMENT OPERATION

INCREASE IN AMBIENT NOISE LEVEL

Fitting all machinery and vehicles with effective exhaust silencers;Maintaining all machinery and vehicles in good repair and in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions;Limit the working hours when near sensitive sites (schools, health care unit, etc.);Proper selection of equipment for the specific tasks considering the lowest sound power level;Maintenance of equipment as not to create unnecessary noise owing to mechanical problems;Operation of equipment in a manner considerate to the ambient noise background;Avoidance of leaving equipment idling unnecessary;Elimination of tonal, impulsive or low frequency noise through noise control engineering techniques where feasible (e.g. dampers, fitting of mufflers, etc.);Provision of alternative methods if necessary (substituting hammering actions with hydraulics);Provision by the Contractor of adequate buffer zone with sensitive populations in the Project Area; Mandatory use of noise plugs during noisy activities andProper communication with receptors whenever highly noisy events are planned


NO COST INCURRED

PREPARED BY ELARD 4


PROJECT ACTIVITY


IMPACTS



COST ESTIMATE

VEHICULAR MOVEMENT &TRUCK TRIPS/HAULAGE

TRAFFIC CONGESTION Liaising with community and government by a dedicated resource in the

field throughout the duration of the project (i.e. establishing a complaint register to document potential public complaints. Clearly identify the project footprint to avoid accidents during further development of the area particularly in the designated and construction sites.Having a Traffic Management Plan (TMP);Allowing only certified and trained drivers to carry out transportation related activities;Having an Emergency Response Procedures in place; andHaving a maintenance program to all vehicles associated with construction activities.


NO COST INCURRED

FUEL, OIL AND CHEMICAL HANDLING AND STORAGE

CONTAMINATION OF SOIL QUALITY AND GROUNDWATER RESOURCES

Storage Where appropriate, fuel, oil and chemicals stores will be sited in specific designated areas on site on an impervious base within a suitably contained area;The fuel storage facilities will have a secondary containment, such as a berm, capable of holding the capacity of the largest container plus 10% to accommodate rainfall;Fresh oil and waste oil will be segregated and stored separately to prevent a potential risk of mixing;All storage tanks will be positioned to minimize the risks of damage by impact; All storage tanks will be of sufficient strength and structural integrity; No storage tank will be used for the storage of fuel, oil or chemicals unless its material and construction are compatible with the type of materials to be stored and storage conditions (e.g. pressure and temperature);Drip trays will be installed underneath equipment such as diesel generators, transformers to contain leakage. The drip trays will be maintained and kept drained of rainwater; and


NO COST INCURRED

PREPARED BY ELARD 5


PROJECT ACTIVITY


IMPACTS



COST ESTIMATE

All fuel and oil will be inventoried and use recorded.Refueling

Supervision of refueling at all times by appropriate personnel: Checks to fill hoses, valves and nozzles for signs of wear and tear prior to operation; Checks to tank levels prior to delivery to prevent overfilling through side glass or manually by dipstick logs;Locating fill pipes within the containment (unless shut-off valves are fitted); Grounding of tanks and grounding of vehicles during fuel transfers; andEnsuring a supply of suitable absorbent materials is available at re-fuelling points for use in dealing with minor spills. If a leak or spill occurs during loading or offloading operations, the operations will be stopped and the spill will be contained, cleaned up and collected based on the Spill Response Plan.Chemicals

Personnel handling chemicals will be trained in their handling and use and aware of the associated hazards including the personnel protective equipment (PPE) requirements through pre-task instruction.Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for all chemicals supplied will be held at the storage area, the point of use and by the site medical staff and site ES&SR representative; Safety signage will be in place;All chemical deliveries (loading and unloading operations) will be supervised at all times and will be transferred to a secure storage area without delay;Storage of chemicals will be sited on designated areas at the site; an inventory of all chemicals on site will be kept and use will be recorded. Chemicals will be properly packaged, labeled and stored; Dangerous/hazard chemicals will be stored separately;Chemical storage drums will be in good condition and with sealed bungs. All used drums will be washed / flushed with water and pierced before

PREPARED BY ELARD 6


PROJECT ACTIVITY


IMPACTS



COST ESTIMATE

leaving the site to prevent local use and subsequent exposure to contaminants if they are not able to be returned to the original supplier.All tanks and containers will be clearly labeled with the nature of the contents and placarded with the MSDS. The storage of chemical products in containers or on palettes equipped with plastic dust cover against severe weather. Chemicals will be shaded. Chemical storage drums and packaging are to be returned to the original supplier in an orderly fashion i.e. palletized and shrink wrapped.

WASTE MANAGEMENT

CONTAMINATION OF SOIL QUALITY AND GROUNDWATER RESOURCES

CDR shall promote the use of a Licensed Municipal Waste Facility in coordination with MoE. All personnel shall be responsible for ensuring that standards of “good housekeeping” are maintained. This will include clearance of all rubbish and work associated debris;Contractors to include a waste management plan as part of CEMP.And CDR to ensure that solid waste management is included in the contractor’s agreement.

IMPLEMENTATION: CDR/CONTRACTOR.SUPERVISION: ESM

NO COST INCURRED

Site clearance /excavation and spoil stockpiling activities

Accidental spills

Tunneling activities

Contamination of groundwater Quality

Clean up spills if any with an absorbent material such as cat litter. Develop a contingency plan to prevent potential groundwater contamination.Passing water resulting from tunneling and excavation through oil separator prior to discharge in the event that it has been contaminated with oily residues.Minimize the planned amount of land to be disturbed as much as possible. Use special construction techniques in areas of steep slopes, erodible soils, and stream crossings.Reclaim or apply protective covering (e.g., vegetative cover) on disturbed soils as quickly as possible.Avoid creating excessive slopes during excavation and blasting


No cost incurred

PREPARED BY ELARD 7


PROJECT ACTIVITY


IMPACTS



COST ESTIMATE

operations since these activities accelerate water percolation into ground.Monitor construction near aquifer recharge areas to reduce potential contamination of the aquifer.Disposal of excess excavation materials in approved areas to control erosion and minimize leaching of hazardous materials.Impose site-specific Best Management Practices, potentially including silt fences, hay bales, vegetative covers, and diversions, to reduce impacts to surface water from the deposition of sediments beyond the construction areas. Immediate implementation of the Oil spill response plan in case of accidental events.

Site clearance /Excavation

Vehicular movement

Destruction of natural habitat (loss of forested areas and few native flora species)

Develop a detailed plants Inventory at the 3 identified sensitive sites (Ouardaniye WTW, Nahr Damour Siphon/Washout and Khalde Flow measurement and sampling chamber) prior and post construction activities commencement as part of CEMP;Developing an ecosystem rehabilitation plan to regenerate and reintroduce some of the native species of trees (especially at the most degraded areas) present in the studied area, therefore leading to positive impacts on biodiversity.

Implementation: Biodiversity expert. 1200

Special effort and attention should be given to the 4 sensitive sitesLimiting vehicular transport to defined roads as to prevent unnecessary damage to vegetation;Preserving top soil excavated by conventional methods (such as drilling);Avoiding introducing invasive plant species (e.g. weeds).All affected areas must be replanted with indigenous species appropriate to the respective sites; and

Implementation: Contractor.Supervision: ESM Biodiversity expert

No cost incurred

Physical excavation

Demolition, alteration of or

Prepare a brochure to help crew members recognize any discovery of buried antiquities; and Archaeologist 500

PREPARED BY ELARD 8


PROJECT ACTIVITY


IMPACTS



COST ESTIMATE

(blasting, site clearance, trenching)

damage to archaeological resources, whether on surface or below-ground

Direct reporting to local authorities (DGA) in case of new findings during Construction and proper documentation of historic sites.


No cost incurred

Land Expropriation

Permanent and irreversible loss of land and some loss of agricultural greenhouses (agricultural business)

Temporary severance / disturbance of public rights-of-way and access to community resources and services.

Consultation with potentially affected communities prior to expropriation procedures.Fair and full compensation for land and other assets expropriated for the project in the public interest as stated in the Lebanese expropriation law (Law No. 58/1991 and its amendments (2006))..Compensation to local farmers who lost their agricultural lands (loss of livelihood);Preparation of a Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) (ongoing) as per the World Bank standards.

ESM

No cost incurred

OPERATION ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN (OESMP)Fuel and Chemicals handling & storage


Selecting appropriate locations for septic tanks installation as to avoid leakage and contamination of groundwater.Immediate cleaning of a spill by removing affected top soil layer by trained employeesContinuous in-situ sampling of soil in the vicinity and underneath the spill for potential contaminant; andStopping the source of spill (close valve, seal pipe, seal hole etc…);

Implementation: WTW operatorSupervision: During the first year of operation: ESMAfter project handover:

No cost incurred

PREPARED BY ELARD 9


PROJECT ACTIVITY


IMPACTS



COST ESTIMATE

Refueling in a designated fueling area that includes a temporary berm to limit, if not prevent, the spread of any spill.

Environmental representative from BMLWWA

Wastewater generation (sanitary/process)


CDR should commission local contractor for the collection of domestic wastewater and disposal to nearest public sewerage network ( Frequency will be based on septic tank volume)

Implementation: Local contractorSupervision year of operation: ESMAfter project handover: Environmental representative from BMLWWA

200 (unit cost)

Adopting as much as possible dry cleaning techniques to decrease resultant wastewater, and to avoid flushing of spills to deeper soil layers.Develop a stormwater management plan to ensure compliance with regulations and prevent off-site migration of contaminated stormwater.


No cost incurred

Leaching from Naameh landfill

Contamination of groundwater quality

Regular monitoring wells data inspection for the section of the tunnel lying downstream the land fill Giving additional consideration for the subject strip during maintenance of the tunnelChecking for any fissures or fractures in the tunnel wall during maintenance

During the first year of operation: ESMAfter project handover: Environmental representative



PROJECT ACTIVITY


IMPACTS



COST ESTIMATE

from BMLWA

Sludge handling and disposal

Contamination of groundwater resources

Design considerations for sludge management include dewatering and thickening processes prior to disposal.Re-use of separated water at the inlet of the WTW instead of discharge of liquid effluent to wadis. In the event of effluent discharge into the Wadi (following sludge dewatering), the former should comply with the Lebanese new standards for discharge into receiving water bodies (Decision No. 8/1).Investigate the disposal of sludge cake to the Naameh landfill instead of quarry rehabilitation. (In the latter case, potential for percolation/leaching into groundwater).


No cost incurred

Operation of pumping stations

Nuisance to noise-sensitive receptors

Fitting all equipment and pumps with effective exhaust silencersProper selection of pumps for the specific task considering the lowest sound power level; and,Maintenance of pumping stations as not to create unnecessary noise owing to mechanical problemsInsulating generator rooms and engines.

Implementation: WTW ContractorSupervision: During the first year of operation: ESMAfter project handover: Environmental representative from BMLWWA

No cost incurred



8.3ESMP IMPLEMENTATION PLAN

The Ministry of Energy and Water (MoEW) is the administrative authority in charge of this project. It will have a Project Steering Committee headed by H.E. the Minister with representatives from key stakeholders including the Ministry of Finance, a representative from CDR, and an Operations Advisor . They will meet once quarterly to review progress on the project. The Project Steering Committee will be assisted by an Operations Advisor, a Monitoring & Evaluation specialist and an administrative assistant. The Project Management Unit (PMU) which will act as secretariat to the Project Steering Committee, will be hosted bythe BMLWWA and will consist of a project coordinator/senior engineer, a procurement specialist, financial management specialist and environmental and social Manager (ESM). The ESM will be in charge of coordination, monitoring and supervision of the EMP and all land acquisition and resettlement activities.

A major responsibility of the PMU will be strengthening and professionalization of utility management.

In order to ensure the proper implementation of the proposed ESMP during the project construction and operation phase, it is essential to maintain proper environmental monitoring. For this purpose, qualified personnel must be designated for every institution involved in construction and operation of this project, as detailed below.

1.3.1 Roles and responsibilities

Roles and responsibilities of the different institutions involved in the construction and operation of the project with respect to the implementation of the EMP are summarized in Table 8-65.

Table 8-65 EMP Implementation PlanINSTITUTION/BODY ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIESSTEERING COMMITTEE OVERALL RESPONSIBILITY OF THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE

ESMP

ESM IS RESPONSIBLE TO ENSURE THAT CONTRACTORS AND CONSULTANTS INVOLVED IN THE PROJECT FOLLOW AND IMPLEMENT THE ESMP; ESM SHALL REVIEW AND APPROVE CEMP PREPARED BY CONTRACTORS

ESM SHALL COORDINATE WITH MOE TO ENSURE APPROPRIATE REPORTING OF ESMP IMPLEMENTATION

ENGINEERING CONSULTANTS

ENSURE EIA FINDINGS AND ESMP CONSIDERATIONS ARE PROPERLY TAKEN IN THE DETAILED ENGINEERING DESIGN AND PROPERLY INTEGRATED IN THE TENDER DOCUMENTS

TENDER DOCUMENTS TO CONTRACTORS SHOULD INCLUDE CLAUSES AND MEANS TO ENSURE CONTRACTORS ARE HELD ACCOUNTABLE FOR EMP IMPLEMENTATION



INSTITUTION/BODY ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIESCONTRACTORS PREPARE A CONSTRUCTION ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT

PLAN (CEMP) THAT DETAILS HOW THE CONTRACTOR SHALL IMPLEMENT THE PROVISIONS OF THE EMP

PROVIDE A FIELD HSE OFFICER TO ENSURE IMPLEMENTATION OF CEMP AS WELL AS CDR’S HSE GUIDELINES

LIAISE WITH ESM AND REGULARLY REPORT ON IMPLEMENTATION OF EMP

IMMEDIATELY REPORT TO ESM AND SUPERVISION CONSULTANT IN CASE OF ACCIDENTS, SPILLS OR OTHER EVENTS WHICH HAVE HEALTH, SAFETY OR ENVIRONMENTAL IMPLICATIONS

IN CASE OF INCIDENTS, CONTRACTORS SHOULD FILL AN INCIDENT RECORDS FORM, INCLUDING HOW THE INCIDENT IS PLANNED TO BE ADDRESSED

SUPERVISION CONSULTANTS

SUPERVISE THE CONTRACTORS IMPLEMENTATION OF CEMP AND HSE REGULATIONS

PREPARE A CHECKLIST TO BE APPROVED BY ESM AND USED TO SUPERVISE CONTRACTOR’S WORKS

COORDINATE CLOSELY WITH ESM ON ALL SITE HSE ISSUES

REVIEW AND APPROVE CONTRACTOR’S EMP REPORTS PRIOR TO SUBMITTAL TO ESM

8.4CAPACITY BUILDING

1.4.1 Training Needs during Construction Phase

In order to ensure a proper and effective implementation of the CEMP, It is particularly important to undertake a training program for every contractor regarding preparation of CEMP & its implementation. Training sessions for every contractor will be conducted prior to the commencement of the construction works and it shall focus on the following topics:

- Implementation of CDR’s HSE guidelines;- Air Quality Management;

- Water Quality Management;

- Water Consumption;

- Solid Waste Management;

- Hazardous waste management; and

- Emergency plan

The training sessions will also include representatives from the MoEW , BMLWWE and the PMU. The cost of these training sessions is 30,000 USD.



1.4.2 Training Needs during Operation PhaseSix months prior to the end of the 2 years operation period, a training session concerning water quality monitoring shall be conducted by a qualified training expert for BMLWWE in order to ensure the proper monitoring of the WTW water quality. The training session shall concentrate on the following:

- Sampling protocols;- Quality Assurance (QA)/ Quality Control (QC); and- Reporting & Interpretation.

The estimated cost for this training is 8,000 USD.

8.5VERIFICATION & MONITORING

1.5.1 Monitoring and Inspection Plan during the Construction PhaseAs part of the Construction Environmental Monitoring Plan, a series of environmental variables are proposed to be monitored at varying frequencies depending on the parameter. Monitoring and site inspections are required particularly where the environmental and social Impact is thought to be most important, in particular:

Near sensitive sites;

At working sites and base camps;

Vehicle routes;

At all possible locations of potential leakage risk; and

At all point sources of waste generation.

The parameters to be monitored during construction will include:1. Traffic flow

2. Ambient air quality

3. Damour Surface and groundwater quality

4. Biodiversity

Additional source of information is through ongoing visual inspection. The site HSE officer should continuously check for unsafe acts and activities that transgress the requirements specified in the EMP. At the same time some potential impacts are difficult to monitor quantitatively, such as soil erosion and waste management. The ongoing inspections by the site HSE officer provide valuable qualitative information on effects such as these so that action can be taken to mitigate against further potential effects.

Visual site inspection shall include:1. Landscape

2. Archaeology

3. Waste Management



4. Health, safety and Hygiene

Table 8-66 summarizes the proposed detailed monitoring and inspection plan during the construction and operation phases.

The detailed plan for water quality monitoring during operation phase is presented in Table 8-67.



Table 8-66 Construction and Operation Monitoring Plan

ENVIRONMENTAL COMPONENT

PARAMETERS FREQUENCY LOCATION RESPONSIBILITY UNIT COST (USD)

TOTAL COST(USD)

DURING CONSTRUCTION

Traffic Flow Continuous vehicles

counting for 24 hours.

Biannually Excavation, blasting and

construction sites

Sites where traffic

deviation are expected

Transportation consultant (to

be hired by CDR)

Can be added to scope of

supervision engineer

4,000 per

report

32,000

Ambient Air

Quality

PM10, SO2, NOx for 24

hours

Biannually 4 locations Environmental Consultant (to

be hired by CDR)


supervision enigneer

4,000 32,000

Noise Levels Leq, Lmax, Lmin (dBA) Monthly Noise sensitive locations Site HSE officer N.A. N.A.

Solid waste Waste type

Waste generated

Waste reused

Waste transported for

offsite reuse/recycle

Waste disposed

Method of disposal

Weekly Excavation, blasting and

construction sites

Site HSE officer N.A. N.A

Damour Surface

and ground

Water Quality

TPH and heavy metals Before work

commencement: 3

surface water samples

& 3 groundwater

samples

Post work cessation: 3

Damour river Environmental Consultant (to

be hired by CDR)


supervision enigneer

800/ sample 9,600





TOTAL COST(USD)

surface water samples

& 3 groundwater

samples.

Archaeology At affected sites sporadic Excavation, blasting sites Archaeology expert to be

hired by CDR



5,000 per

year

20,000

Biodiversity Plant inventory 2 (before and after

construction activities)

4 sensitive sites

(ouardaniye WTW, NAhr

Damour Siphon/ washout

and khalde flow

measurement and tunnel

chamber)

Biodiversity expert



10,000 20,000

Health safety

environment and

Hygiene

Continuous Excavation, blasting and

construction sites

Site HSE officer N.A. N.A

Capacity Building

and Trainings

Once prior to the

commencement of

construction works.

1 training session for

each contractor

BMLWE Training Specialist

(to be hired by CDR)

10,000 30,000

SUBTOTAL 1 143,600 USD

DURING OPERATION

Treated Water Physico-chemical, Monthly WTW Outlet; Operator (PMU then BMLWWE) 800/sample 4,000/month





TOTAL COST(USD)

Quality bacteriological parameters,

trace metal indicator and

TPH

Khaldeh sampling point

Reservoirs (3)

48,000/ year

Sludge Cake

Characteristics

Dry weight and Heavy

metals

During 1st year ( 4

samples for the four

seasons)

WTW Operator (PMU then BMLWWE) 750 3000/year

Noise levels Leq, Lmax, Lmin Biannually Ourdaniye site Operator PMU then BMLWWE) N.A. N.A.

Capacity Building

& Trainings

once BMLWWE Training specialist

(to be hired by CDR)

10,000 10,000

SUBTOTAL 2 61,000 USD/

year



Table 8-67 Water Quality Monitoring Plan during Operation Phase

LOCATION OF MONITORING

POINTSPARAMETERS TO BE MONITORED

FREQUENCY STANDARD

WTW Outlet

pH

Monthly

6.5 – 8.5SalinityAlkalinity Conductivity 400µS/cmNitrates 25 - 50 mg/l

Ammonium 0.05 – 0.5 mg/l

Calcium 100 mg/lMagnesium 30 – 50 mg/l

Sodium 20 – 150 mg/l

Potassium 10 -12 mg/lSulfates 250 mg/lPhosphatesNitrites 0 mg/l

Iron 50 – 200 mg/l

Chlorides 25 – 200 mg/l

Residual ChlorineTotal coliforms 0/100 mlFecal coliforms 0/100 mlFecal Streptococcus 0/100 ml

Water Reservoirs 3 (Hadath/Hazmieh)

Ammonium

Daily

0.05 – 0.5 mg/l

PhosphatesNitrites 0 mg/l

Chlorides 25 – 200 mg/l

Residual ChlorineTotal coliforms 0/100 mlFecal coliforms 0/100 mlFecal Streptococcus 0/100 ml

Distribution Network

Total coliforms

Daily

0/100 mlFecal coliforms 0/100 mlFecal Streptococcus 0/100 ml

Residual Chlorine 0/100 ml



8.5.1 Reporting

It is highly recommended to establish a database to log in field monitoring results. It will provide a scientific basis for establishing or modifying environmental measures in the future for the water sector. The database will record monitoring results during construction and operation phases. It will be developed by the PMU with the assistance of the implementing consultants. Monthly environmental monitoring reports shall be prepared by the PMU to analysis the collected data, assess the monitoring activities, and provide recommendations to ensure the effectiveness of the overall Construction Environmental Monitoring Plan. It is proposed that the PMU prepares quarterly environmental monitoring reports during the first two years of operation (open for renewal depending on the monitoring results).

It is proposed that a monthly environmental inspection report be developed by the site HSE officer and presented to the ESM/ PMU. The PMU will review the consolidated monthly report and decide on an appropriate corrective action where this is deemed necessary.

Additionally bi-annual comprehensive reports shall be generated by the PMU to present the results of the ESMP implementation activities and assess the adequacy of the proposed mitigation measures. These reports shall be submitted to the MoEW, MoE, CDR and the World Bank. During operation the bi annual reports should include a full synthesis and analysis of the water quality monitoring data within the WTW to assess the effectiveness of the various treatment units/ technologies adopted within the plant and propose potential enhancements to it and lessons learnt for future similar plants.


FINAL REPORT COUNCIL FOR DEVELOPMENT AND RECONSTRUCTION (CDR)ESIA FOR AWALI-BEIRUT WATER CONVEYER PROJECT REFERENCES

9. REFERENCESMontgomery Watson. Awali-Beirut Conveyor Project Feasibility Study Update, April 2010

Montgomery Watson and Engico Consulting Engineers. Awali-Beirut Water Conveyor Project (on BOT basis), April 1998

Montgomery Watson and Engico Consulting Engineers. Awali-Beirut Water Supply Preliminary Design Report, April 1994

Harajli M., 1994. Seismic Hazard Assessment of Lebanon: Zonation Maps, and Structural Seismic Design Regulations. Submitted to the Directorate of Urbanism Ministry of Public Work, Beirut, Lebanon.

Nemer T., 1999. The Roum Fault: Extent and Associated Structures. M.S. Thesis American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon

Dubertret, 1955. Geologic Map of Lebanon 1/200,000

IFC (International Finance Cooperation of the World Bank Group), 2007a. Environmental Development. April 30, 2007.

IFC (International Finance Cooperation of the World Bank Group), 2007b. General Guidelines for Environmental Health and Safety. April 30, 2007.

BS (British Standard) 5228:1997. Part 1, Noise and Vibration Control on Construction and Open Sites

PREPARED BY ELARD 1

FINAL REPORT COUNCIL FOR DEVELOPMENT AND RECONSTRUCTION (CDR)ESIA FOR AWALI-BEIRUT WATER CONVEYER PROJECT APPENDICES

10. APPENDICES

PREPARED BY ELARD 1


APPENDIX A: TOPOGRAPHIC MAPS (1/20,000)

PREPARED BY ELARD 2


APPENDIX B: LOCATION DRAWINGS

PREPARED BY ELARD 3


APPENDIX C: SATELLITE IMAGES AND PHOTOGRAPHS

PREPARED BY ELARD 4


APPENDIX D: SLUDGE

PREPARED BY ELARD 5


APPENDIX E: NOISE RAW DATA

PREPARED BY ELARD 6


APPENDIX F: ARCHAEOLOGICAL REPORT

PREPARED BY ELARD 7


APPENDIX G: SOCIAL SURVEY QUESTIONNAIRES

PREPARED BY ELARD 8


APPENDIX H: FLYER

PREPARED BY ELARD 9


APPENDIX I: CONSULTATIONS



APPENDIX J: EXPROPRIATION



APPENDIX K: CEMP TEMPLATE



APPENDIX L: CDR HSE GUIDELINES



APPENDIX M: MAP OF COMPONENT 2



APPENDIX N: EHS GUIDELINE WATER SANITATION



APPENDIX O: WATER SAMPLING ANALYSIS RESULTS
