REPUBLIC OF TAJIKISTAN TAJIKISTAN PREPAREDNESS AND RESILIENCE TO DISASTERS PROJECT ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK (ESMF) April 2023 1 ABBREVIATIONS AND GLOSSARY ACM Asbestos Containing Material ARAP Abbreviated resettlement plan CAP Corrective Action Plan CEP Committee for Environmental Protection under the Government of Republic of CLMG Committee Tajikistan on Land Management and Geodesy CoESCD Committee of Emergency Situations and Civil Defense COVID-19 Coronavirus disease of 2019 DRFI Disaster Risk Finance and Insurance DRM Disaster Risk Management E&S Environmental and Social EA Executing Agency EE Environmental Examination EHSG Environmental Health and Safety Guidelines of the World Bank EIA Environmental Impact Assessment EMP Environmental Management Plan EPA Environmental protection Agency ERP Emergency Response Plan ESA Environmental and Social Assessment ESCP Environmental and Social Commitment Plan ESF Environmental and Social Framework ESHG Environmental Health and Safety Guidelines ESIA Environmental and Social Impact Assessment ESMF Environmental and Social Management Framework ESMP Environmental and Social Management Plan ESS Environmental and Social Standards of the World Bank GBAO Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region GBV Gender-based violence GFF Global Financing Facility GII Gender Inequality Index GIIP Good International Industrial Practices GoRT Government of the Republic of Tajikistan GRS Grievance Redress Service H&S Health and Safety HSE Health Safety and Environment HSIP Health Sector Improvement Project IDA International Development Association IR Involuntary Resettlement JSEA Job Safety Environmental Analysis LMP Labor Management Procedures MEDT Ministry of Economic Development and Trade MEWR Ministry of Energy and Water Resources MOA Ministry of Agriculture MOF Ministry of Finance MOHSP Ministry of Health and Social Protection of the Population OHS Occupational Health and Safety PDO Project Development Objective PIG Project Implementation Group PIU Project Implementation Unit within Ministry of Finance POM Project Operational Manual PPE Personal Protective Equipment RAP Resettlement Action plan RF Resettlement Framework SDI Service Delivery Indicators SEA sexual exploitation and abuse SEE State Environmental Expertise SEP Stakeholder Engagement Plan SH Sexual harassment SPAR Self-Assessment Annual Reporting Tool TAS Tajik Academy of Science 2 UN United Nations WB World Bank WBG World Bank Group WHO World health organization 3 Table of content EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ...........................................................................................................................6 I. PROJECT DESCRPTION...................................................................................................................12 1.1. Scope and Objectives of the ESMF ..............................................................................................16 II. LEGISLATIVE AND REGULATORY FRAMEWOKS ......................................................................18 2.1. National Environmental Legislation and Procedures of the Republic of Tajikistan ....................18 2.1.1. Environmental Assessment Framework ....................................................................................22 2.1.2 Environmental Assessment Requirements of Tajikistan ............................................................22 2.1.3. EIA Procedure ...........................................................................................................................24 2.2. Key National Social Legal Provisions and Citizen Engagement Legal Framework ....................25 2.3. National Sectoral Legal Framework .............................................................................................26 2.4. International Treaties and Obligations .........................................................................................26 2.5. World Bank's Environmental and Social Standards and their requirements ................................28 2.6. Applicability of the WBG EHS Guidelines ..................................................................................29 2.6. National Institutional Framework.................................................................................................34 2.6.1. National Institutions involved in the Environment Sector ........................................................34 2.7. Environmental and social assessment procedures ........................................................................36 2.7.1. Environmental assessment procedures ......................................................................................36 2.7.2. Social assessment procedures ....................................................................................................39 III. BASELINE DATA ..............................................................................................................................41 3.1. Physical Resources .......................................................................................................................41 3.2. Ecological Resources....................................................................................................................49 3.3. Social and Economic Characteristics ...........................................................................................54 3.3.1 Population ..................................................................................................................................54 3.3.2 Economy ....................................................................................................................................54 3.3.3 Migration and Employment by Gender ......................................................................................55 3.3.4 Poverty and Vulnerability ..........................................................................................................56 IV. PROJECT ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL IMPACTS ...............................................................57 4.1. Potential environmental impacts and risks ...................................................................................57 4.2 Potential Social Impacts and Risks................................................................................................59 V. INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS AND CAPACITY FOR ESMF IMPLEMENTATION ......129 5.1. Project coordination....................................................................................................................129 5.2. Capacity Building and ESMF Implementation Budget ..............................................................130 5.2.1. ESMF implementation budget .................................................................................................132 5.3. Monitoring and reporting activities ............................................................................................132 5.3.1. General requirements for environmental and social monitoring and reporting.......................132 5.3.2. Environmental and Social Monitoring ....................................................................................133 5.3.3. Environmental and Social Performance Reporting .................................................................133 5.3.4. Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) issues reporting ........................................................135 5.4. Integration of ESMF into the project documentation .................................................................136 4 VI. GRIEVANCE REDRESS MECHANISM..........................................................................................140 6.1. Description of GRM ...................................................................................................................140 6.2. GRM Structure ...........................................................................................................................141 6.3. Grievance Logs ...........................................................................................................................143 6.4. Monitoring and Reporting on Grievances ..................................................................................143 6.5. World Bank Grievance Redress System .....................................................................................144 VII. ESMF DISCLOSURE AND PUBLIC CONSULTATIONS (will be complemented) .....................145 Annex 1. Minutes of the public consultations ...........................................................................................146 Annex 2: SOCIAL SCREENING CHECKLIST ......................................................................................190 Annex 3: ENVIRONMENTAL SCREENING CHECKLIST ..................................................................192 Annex 4. HEALTH, SAFETY AND WELLBEING INSPECTION CHECKLISTS ...............................194 Annex 5: INDICATIVE OUTLINE OF ESIA ..........................................................................................210 Annex 6: ENVIRONMENTAL SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN (Template) .....................................213 Annex 7: ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN CHECKLIST .......................194 Annex 8: TEMPLATE CODE OF CONDUCT ........................................................................................199 ANNEX 9. Exclusion List of Activities ....................................................................................................203 ANNEX 10. CHANCE FIND PROCEDURES OF PHYSICAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES .....204 5 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1. This Environmental and Social Management Framework (ESMF) has been prepared for the Tajikistan Preparedness and Resilience to Disasters Project, which will be implemented by the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Tajikistan (MoF), Ministry of Transport of the Republic of Tajikistan (MoT) and Committee of Emergency Situations and Civil Defense of the Republic of Tajikistan (CoESD). The project will be funded by the International Development Association (IDA). 2. The proposed project will respond to urgent needs by resiliently reconstructing roads that were damaged during the May-July 2021 floods and mudflows. The project is also envisioned to continue building the foundation of the GoRT’s long-term climate and disaster resilience program started under SCINHP and is based on high demand for continued support to overall DRM, climate change adaptation, reconstruction, and resilience of critical infrastructure in the country. It will further enhance infrastructure resilience by strengthening and protecting critical road segments, thus reducing disaster risk, enhancing climate change adaptation, and avoiding potential damage for the long term. The project will also strengthen the GoRT’s sub-national capacity for DRM to address increasing countrywide disaster risks, especially for climate-related hazards such as floods, mudslides, rock falls, avalanches and landslides, as well as earthquakes. 3. Project Development Objective is (a) to support disaster recovery, strengthen the resilience of critical roads, and enhance disaster risk management capacity; and (b) in the case of an Eligible Crisis or Emergency, respond promptly and effectively to it. 4. The MoF PIU will lead the overall supervision and coordination of project implementation, The MoF PIU will also execute Sub-Components 2.1, 2.4 and 2.5 (under Component 2: Strengthening Disaster Risk Management Capacity) and Component 4 (Contingent Emergency Response Component), Sub- Component 2.2 and 2.3 activities related to disaster preparedness will be implemented by the CoESCD, and Component 1 activities related to the reconstruction of bridges will be implemented by the MoT. 5. The proposed project will have the following components: 6. Component 1: Building Road Resilience will finance designs and capital works for selected segments of the primary road network to increase its resilience to natural hazards and climate change. Capital works will include reconstruction and repair of roads damaged during the May-July 2021 floods and mudflows, and reinforcement of prioritized road segments against floods, mudflows, landslides, rock falls, erosion, avalanches and earthquakes. Risks associated with civil works may comprise of dust, noise from machinery and during construction, removal of the surface soil, generation of solid wastes, and other hazardous and non-hazardous waste from rehabilitation activities. The civil works will also impose Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) concerns. 7. Subcomponent 1.1 Rehabilitation of roads damaged by the 2021 The GoRT estimated that some 165 km of roads were damaged during the May-July 2021 floods and mudflows. The project will finance the rehabilitation of priority roads (as specified in the POM) and associated infrastructure damaged by the 2021 floods. Climate-resilient rehabilitation and reconstruction of roads and bridges damaged during the 2021 floods and mudflows will be pursued in Vakhsh, Vose, Shasiddin Shohin and Muminobod Districts in the Khatlon region, re-establishing more resilient regional and local connectivity. Rehabilitation will follow a build-back-better approach to enhance adaptation to climate change and associated road resilience to minimize future risks from similar hazards, including for several bridges. As such, climate- and seismic-resilient reconstruction or rehabilitation designs will be developed and works implemented for the following road segments and bridges: • Damaged sections of the Muminobod-Ghesh-Childukhtaron, Muminobod-Momandiyon and Vakhsh- Dangara roads. 6 • Two bridges on the Dushanbe-Kulma road (km 158 and 165), including any required slope stabilization and protection • One bridge each on the following roads: Tugarak-Qurbonov M village-Faizovi R village (km 0.5), Shobhika-Navobod (km 4.5), Tugarak-Sarichashma-Sh. Shohin (km 21) and Vakhsh-Isoev-Guliston, including any required slope stabilization and protection. 8. Subcomponent 1.2 Protection and reinforcement of priority roads will finance the reinforcement and protection of one or more segments of priority roads at significant risk of natural hazards posed by climate change, including reconstruction, repair and new installation of measures. The selected road segments will align with those identified as priorities under SCINHP’s Economic Impacts of Disasters along Key Transport Corridors1 assessment. This will include rehabilitation of two critical bridges on the Dushanbe-Rudaki Road in the Rudaki District (RRS), as well reinforcement and protection of high-risk locations primarily between Labidjar and Karamik in the corridor connecting Dushanbe with the Kyrgyz Republic through the Rasht Valley (including Roghun, Rasht, Tojikobod and Lakhsh Districts, RRS), thereby supporting international trade. Sub-component 1.2 may also support reinforcement of roads in the districts supported under Sub-component 1.1. Capital works will include climate change-resilient reconstruction, repair and new installations of measures including but not limited to avalanche galleries, snow barriers, retaining walls, flexible rockfall barriers, rockfall drapes, debris flow barriers, larger culverts, strengthened bridges, road realignments, replacement of soft/swamp material, roadbed raising, and surface water drains. 9. As such, under 1.2., climate- and seismic-resilient structural and protection designs will be developed and works implemented for the following priority road segments: • Two major bridges on the Dushanbe-Rudaki road crossing the Kafarnigan River at km 9.800 and crossing the Elok River at km 11.000, including any required slope stabilization and protection. • Detailed feasibility and design studies for climate- and seismic-resilient road upgrading and protection for the Labidjar-Karamik international road. The focus will be protection and resilience to climate-related risks including measures directly on the road (culverts, drainage, etc.), measures stabilizing slopes and riverbanks immediately adjacent to the road, and further removed measures to reduce hazards reaching the road (avalanche, mudflow and rock fall netting, fences and barriers). • Detailed feasibility and design studies for full rehabilitation and improvement of the “Khatlon” tunnel in Norak City, as well as for a priority bridge site connecting Ayni to the rest of the country, including any required slope stabilization and protection. Future implementation of these designs would only be considered if relevant and appropriate additional financing is mobilized for the project. 10. Component 2: Strengthening Disaster Risk Management Capacity will aim to strengthen the capacity of the CoESCD, as the main coordinating agency for crisis management and DRM, to prepare and respond better to disasters, climate shocks and emergencies; of the IGEES to understand better the seismic risks of select critical infrastructure; and of the MoF to operationalize its financial response to disasters by designing and establishing ex-ante financial instruments 11. Sub-component 2.1. Strengthening Regional Crisis Management Centers and Systems will finance (a) necessary works to build or renovate facilities to host the regional crisis management centers (RCMCs) in Khujand, Khorog and Bokhtar, with all designs and civil works executed with risk-informed climate- and natural-hazard resilient designs, energy efficiency solutions and technologies, and climate- resilient materials and technical solutions; (b) purchasing of required energy efficient information and communication technology equipment to be installed within the RCMCs, including equipment for dispatching early warnings, automated emergency call receiving system and dispatch services, disaster 1 https://www.worldbank.org/en/country/tajikistan/publication/tajikistan-the-economic-impacts-of-disasters-along-key- transport-corridors 7 management information system, and robust crisis communications, integrated with the systems being installed in the NCMC under SCINHP; (c) purchasing of additional energy efficient mobile command and communication vehicles for the improved crisis management systems at the regional/local levels, as needed, to perform as RCMCs; (d) consultancy services for expanding the national operations manual for RCMCs, promoting climate-resilient actions and energy efficient management; and (e) capacity building for relevant staff and operators of the RCMC and users of mobile command and communication vehicles, as needed. 12. Sub-component 2.2 Modernizing Disaster Communication and Information Systems will strengthen, expand and increase the robustness of the country’s disaster communications backbone, support platforms and tools to increase sharing, access and dissemination of disaster-related information, and better utilize real-time data sources. As such, the sub-component will finance (a) enhancing existing and setting up new radio communication networks across the country, and at the very east in large cities and population centers; (b) enhancing other ICT networks like microwave, satellite, fiber optics, etc.; (c) enhancing/developing umbrella disaster management software; (d) enhancing/developing an interagency platform for data exchange between disaster monitoring / forecasting /management agencies; (e) supporting policy development, facilitating and populating a geo-node/website for consolidated access to existing and new disaster-related geospatial data and information; (f) developing dissemination channels (website, SMS services, smartphone app, etc.) to facilitate real-time public access to forecasts and warnings; and (g) supporting Tajikhydromet access and use of real-time products from the new CoESCD weather radar in Hissar, including support in rehabilitation and improvement of classroom buildings at the existing territory of Hissar weather radar. 13. Sub-component 2.3: Capacity building for emergency response will help expand readiness-to- respond capacities to more localized and especially skilled first responders, and will finance (a) international community certification trainings for professional search and rescue (SAR) teams; (b) public trainings for disaster preparedness, (c) preparation of disaster preparedness and climate adaptation modules for different stakeholders (d) construction, provision of equipment and capacity building for a water rescue training center and a canine (K-9) center at the territory of existing rescuers’ training center of CoESCD at Karatog, and (e) reinforcement/additional capacity for the existing emergency response training center in Karatog, including through procurement of search and rescue, training, and medical equipment, trainings simulators and modules, specialized vehicles/machinery, as well as rehabilitation or repair of facilities on the territory of the Karatag training center. 14. Sub-component 2.4: Strengthening the basis for structural and seismic resilience will finance: (a) Establishment of a seismic response monitoring system for priority and representative structures and natural ground locations in Dushanbe, with potential to include equipment for on-site examination of such structures and buildings; (b) Continued updating of building standards; (c) Training and workshops in the application of updated building codes and standards, including energy efficiency considerations to mitigate the impact of the climate change; and (d) Building monitoring and enforcement capacities of IGEES. 15. Sub-component 2.5: Disaster risk financing will finance (a) Consulting services to assess the requirements, fiscal realities, needed legislation and regulations, and subsequently design priority mechanisms to enable establishment and functioning of disaster risk financing instruments; and (b) Technical capacity-building activities of the relevant MoF and other involved government entities will also be financed. 16. Component 3: Project Management will support incremental operating costs for the implementing agencies (IAs)—the MoF, CoESCD, and MoT — for project execution, including overall project administration and management, prioritization of subprojects, management of social and environmental safeguard issues, financial management (FM), procurement, contract administration, project reporting, and monitoring and evaluation (M&E). 17. Component 4: Contingent Emergency Response Component The objective of this component is to improve Tajikistan’s capacity to respond to disasters. An emergency eligible for financing is an event that has caused, or is likely imminently to cause, a major adverse economic and/or social impact to the 8 Borrower, associated with a disaster or crisis. Rapid disbursement will allow the GoRT to request a reallocation of project funds to partially cover emergency response and recovery costs. 18. PREPARED Subprojects The project's major subproject activities with potential environmental risks include financing, (a) designs and civil works for selected segments of the primary road network, which will include reconstruction and repair of flood and mudflow damaged roads and reinforcement of prioritized road segments against floods, mudflows, landslides, rock falls, erosion, earthquakes, and avalanches; (b) works to build or renovate facilities to host CoESCD’s (Committee of Emergency Situations and Civil Defense) regional crisis management centers (RCMCs) in selected provinces (c) purchasing of information and communication technology equipment to be installed within the RCMCs, (c) purchasing of additional mobile command and communication vehicles for the improved crisis management systems at the regional/local levels to perform as RCMCs where none is present; (d) construction, provision of equipment and capacity building for a water rescue training center and a canine (K-9) center at the territory of existing rescuers’ training center of CoESCD at Karatog, and (e) Importantly, all the designs and civil works of RCMC facilities will be executed with risk-informed climate- and natural-hazard resilient designs, energy efficiency solutions and technologies, and climate- resilient materials and technical solutions, and the same will be promoted as part of a national operations manual for RCMCs. 19. The potential environmental risk related to the PREPARED operations may comprise (i) accelerated erosions caused by runoff conditions due to resurfacing activities, (ii) impacts on topsoil and vegetation and disturbance of surface soil, (iii) noise and dust pollution due to heavy machinery works and movements, (iv) surface water pollution due to accidental leakage, (v) runoff, and community health and safety. These impacts can be easily managed and mitigated if E&S tools are adequately addressed in the project engineering design and implemented during subproject civil works. There is also a potential risk of community exposure to COVID-19 infection by the project workers during the construction phase. The project will exercise appropriate precautions against introducing the infection to local communities. 20. Since the exact locations and the nature of subproject activities are not known at this stage, It is difficult to determine associated risks to the activities of the subprojects. The project has therefore adopted a framework approach in the form of developing an Environmental and Social Management Framework (ESMF). 21. Project Beneficiaries The rehabilitation of the CoESCD RCMCs will most directly benefit people living in the cities where they are located, namely Bokhtar (population 111,800), Khorog (30,500) and Khujand (183,600), for a total of 325,000 people. The entire population of the regions officially covered by the RCMCs, namely Khatlon (3,348,300), GBAO (228,900) and Soghd (2,707,600), will also potentially gain enhanced access to DRM and response services (total 6,284,800).65 The roughly 260,000 people annually affected by emergencies who will have access to improved emergency response services should be considered indirect beneficiaries of this investment, as well as least some of the Afghan refugees that may enter Tajikistan, which may rise to 50,000 in 2022. The numbers of people benefitting directly from DRM and preparedness training, as well as enhanced early warning services, will be determined during project implementation. Representatives and staff of the CoESCD, MoT, IGEES, Tajikhydromet and MoF will also benefit from technical and institutional capacity building in DRM planning, implementation and monitoring. 22. Reconstruction of roads and bridges in Khatlon damaged by the 2021 flood and mudflows will benefit the residents of the Vakhsh, Vose, Shasiddin Shohin and Muminobod Districts, with a total population of 566,000. Rehabilitation of two bridges on the Dushanbe-Rudaki road will benefit the 518,000 residents of Rudaki District, while also ensuring an improved flow of goods and equipment between Dushanbe and the south of the country. Strengthening of roads to climate change and disaster risks in the Labidjar to Karamik corridor will directly benefit the residents of Roghun, Rasht, Tojikobod and Lakhsh Districts, with a total population of 343,400. This activity will also indirectly benefit over 1 million people in Dushanbe, Vakhdat city, Fayzobad and Nurobod Districts, with the road supporting local and access to services and markets as well as international trade by providing a vital link to the Kyrgyz Republic. 9 23. Rationale and objectives of ESMF: The objective of the ESMF is to provide guidelines for developing appropriate measures to prevent and mitigate adverse impacts that may arise as a result of Project activities. The main objective of this document is to summarize the expected environmental and social risks and impacts associated with the project and identify measures to mitigate adverse impacts throughout the project life cycle. 24. The ESMF has been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the World Bank’s Environmental and Social Standard: “Assessment and Management of Environmental and Social Risks and Impacts” (ESS 1) and addresses the provisions of the legislation of the Republic of Tajikistan. The document outlines the World Bank’s Environmental and Social Standards (ESS) and national legislation of the Republic of Tajikistan, determines institutional arrangements and capacity to comply with the Bank’s Environmental and Social Framework, identifies stakeholders and engagement methods, describes grievance redress and feedback mechanisms, and addresses requirements for monitoring and reporting about the project’s environmental and social performance. 25. The ESMF includes a checklist for Environmental and Social Management Plans (ESMPs), Annex 7 to this document. The document aims to provide a comprehensive action plan to address health, safety and environment (HSE) issues related to the construction of the regional crisis management centers and rehabilitation of selected roads and bridges. The ESMF covers all applicable provisions of the relevant Environmental and Social Standards (ESSs). Additionally, other environmental and social instruments as required by the ESF, such as the Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP), Labor Management Procedures (LMP), Resettlement Framework (RF) have been prepared as stand-alone documents and are appropriately referenced in the ESMF. The type of environmental and social instruments and their timings of development and implementation are defined in the project Environmental and Social Commitment Plan (ESCP), which forms part of the Project’s legal agreement between the World Bank and the Government of Tajikistan. 26. The document consists of seven chapters that outline environmental and social assessment procedures and mitigation requirements in line with the Bank’s ESF requirements and standards for the subprojects /project activities which will be supported by the Project. Relevant Annexes are enclosed at the end of this document to compliment the environmental and social risk management procedures outlined in the chapters. 27. Institutional Arrangements for ESMF implementation. The project will have three IAs, namely the MoF, MoT and CoESCD. The MoF PIU will lead the overall supervision and coordination of project implementation, combined financial management (FM), and monitoring and combined reporting (component 3). The MoF PIU will also execute sub-components 2.1, 2.4 and 2.5(RCMC construction, seismic risk assessment and disaster risk financing), and Component 4 (contingent emergency response), with technical inputs and supervision from relevant agencies such as the CoESCD, IGEES and relevant departments within the MoF. Sub-components 2.2-2.3 (strengthening disaster preparedness), will be implemented by the CoESCD PIG. Component 1 (road resilience) will be implemented by the MoT PIG. The CoESCD and MoT will be in charge of the procurement, FM, technical inputs and supervision, and environmental and social framework (ESF)-related aspects of their respective activities. 28. The MoF will serve as the primary GoRT counterpart and the overarching coordination institution responsible for project implementation. The MoF is experienced in executing World Bank– financed projects, as well as coordinating various line ministries and technical agencies. This implementing arrangement—with the MoF as the overarching institution— was determined to be optimal, given the multisectoral nature of the project. 29. The PIU within the MoF will be responsible for tasks for all components and activities of the project. This will include the following: • Overall project management and coordination. • Combination of FM reports from the CoESCD and MoT. • Combination of audited financial statements under the project. • Administration of third-party audits, ensuring quality of project activities. 10 • Semiannual project progress reports, combining all components and activities. • Monitoring of the Results Framework. • Hiring and management of consultants, as needed, for the overall project management and coordination. 30. Potential environmental risks and impacts and mitigation measures. The environmental risk rating is moderate. These risks and impacts can be summarized as follows: (a) Waste generation (b) Air pollution is mainly expected to be caused by dust and construction equipment emissions ”dust generation will occur during the majority of construction/rehabilitation activities” (c) Noise pollution can occur mainly during the of construction/rehabilitation activities. (d) Surface water pollution (e) Water consumption (f) Soil contamination (g) Loss of vegetation, and (h) impacts related with occupational health and safety . These risks and potential adverse impacts are predictable and site-specific, They can be prevented, minimized, or mitigated by proper assessment and readily available mitigation measures in line with national regulations and the Good International Industry Practice (GIIP) 31. Potential Social Impacts and Risks and mitigation measures. The social risk rating is moderate. In general, project areas are essentially different regions and are exposed to common risks of instability and conflict, which will affect the final results of the project. Thus, the project areas are characterized by: (i) geographical risks - inter-regional and inter-district risks; (ii) economic risks - high unemployment, especially among young people, and a significant dependence of household incomes on remittances, which is subject to external economic conditions and fluctuations; (iii) social exclusion; and (iv) institutional risks - insufficient client potential in applying ESS; (v) Small scale involuntary resettlement related to reconstruction works within the project activities; (vi) Sexual exploitation or abuse at workplaces, or inequity in employment and terms and conditions, and challenges in organizing favorable a working environment; No significant risks related to labor influx and community safety are expected under the project, as most project workers (for the civil works) will be recruited locally. The SEA/SH risk is assessed as low mostly due to the status of national Gender-Based Violence (GBV) legislation, social norms in rural areas, where women population at workplaces are well respected. 32. Key proposed risk mitigation tools. To manage environmental and social risks and impacts identified throughout all phases of the project implementation, the implementing agencies have prepared, consulted upon, disclosed, and will implement the following documents: 1) Environmental and Social Management Framework (ESMF); 2) Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP); 3) Resettlement Policy Framework (RPF); 4) Labor Management Procedures (LMP); 33. In addition to the above-mentioned framework documents, during the project implementation cycle, for each of the subprojects where significant or moderate risks are identified, the following tools will be used: 1) Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP), including small-scale activities - in the form of checklists; 2) Site-specific occupational health and safety plan; 3) Contractor Code of Conduct (CoC); 4) Asbestos Management Plan (if found necessary) 34. Integration of the ESMP into the project documentation. All bidding documents for subprojects will include a requirement to implement a site-specific ESMP, and these documents should be attached to the bidding documents and then to the civil works contracts. The requirements of this ESMF will be incorporated into the Project Operational Manual, while the requirements of the Contractor’s ESMP (C-ESMP) will be included in the civil works contracts for individual subprojects, both in the specifications and in the bill of quantities, and contractors will be required to include the cost of implementation of the C-ESMP in their financial proposals. Contractors’ contracts should include requirements for compliance with all national building codes, health and safety, protective procedures and regulations, and environmental protection documents. 11 35. ESMF Monitoring and Reporting. A contracted consulting company in charge of the project's environmental and social aspects will actively participate in three IAs at the local level, namely, the MoF, MoT, and CoESCD, to oversee compliance with the ESMF requirements at all stages of project implementation. The assigned E&S specialists and pertinent design team in IAs will work together to develop the ESMP. Under the supervision of the PIU, the project environmental and social consulting firm will conduct public hearings, and regular monitoring of the subproject’s implementa tion during construction and operation in accordance with relevant ESMPs, training, and reporting, including gender aspects. Information on important environmental and social aspects of the subprojects, including their environmental impacts, social repercussions of those impacts, and the efficacy of mitigation measures taken, should be provided by environmental and social monitoring. 36. Legislatives and Regulatory Framework The management of environmental and social issues is based on the requirements of Tajikistani legislation, the WB ESF (Environmental and Social Framework), and relevant environmental and social standards. The Republic of Tajikistan has a range of legislative and regulatory acts that are relevant to environmental management, including articles of the Constitution, laws, by-laws, resolutions of the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan (GoRT), and international environmental conventions that the Parliament of the Republic of Tajikistan has ratified. 37. Relevance of environmental and social standards of the WB (ESS). 38. The following Environmental and Social Standards (ESS) are relevant to the Project: ESS 1 - Assessment and management of environmental and social risks and impacts; ESS 2 - Labor and working conditions; ESS 3 - Resource efficiency, environmental pollution and management; ESS 4 - Community Health and Safety; ESS 5 - Land Acquisition, Restrictions on Land Use and Involuntary Resettlement; and ESS 10 - Stakeholder Engagement and disclosure. Detailed information on the ESSs directly relevant to the project will be provided in the relevant chapter of the main document. 39. Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM). As required under World Bank’s ESS 10, the Project will maintain a Grievance Redress Mechanism and other types of appeals. A Feedback Mechanism will be implemented as one of the main tools to prevent social risks/exclusion. These mechanisms are necessary to make ensure the project beneficiaries have the opportunity, at all stages of project implementation, to submit their appeals in the form of complaints, requests to improve project activities or proposals to eliminate problems without any cost and with a guarantee of their timely resolution. 40. ESMF public Consultations and Information Disclosure. ESMF and RPF preparation has been highly participatory. Some consultations have been held with various stakeholders including the public communities, local/ district/ regional authorities, other departments and service providers. The draft ESMF, SEP, LMP and RPF in English and Russian languages were posted on the PIU MoF website on 12 of April 2023 (http://piumof.tj/pages/106 and http://piumof.tj/pages/6). The public consultations were held in project districts on January-April 2023. Minutes of the public consultations held are enclosed in Annex 1 of this ESMF. I. PROJECT DESCRPTION 41. The project Development Objective is (a) to support disaster recovery, strengthen the resilience of critical roads, and enhance disaster risk management capacity; and (b) in the case of an Eligible Crisis or Emergency, respond promptly and effectively to it.. 42. The project will respond to urgent needs by resiliently reconstructing roads that were damaged during the May-July 2021 floods and mudflows. The project is also envisioned to continue building the foundation of the GoRT’s long-term climate and disaster resilience program started under SCINHP and is based on high demand for continued support to overall DRM, climate change adaptation, reconstruction, and resilience of critical infrastructure in the country. It will further enhance infrastructure resilience by strengthening and protecting critical road segments, thus reducing disaster risk, enhancing climate change adaptation, and avoiding potential damage for the long term. The project will also strengthen the GoRT’s 12 sub-national capacity for DRM to address increasing countrywide disaster risks, especially for climate- related hazards such as floods, mudslides, rock falls, avalanches and landslides, as well as earthquakes. 43. The project consists of the four components described in the following sections Component 1: Building Road Resilience. This component will finance designs and capital works for selected segments of the primary road network to increase its resilience to natural hazards including adaptation to climate change. All roads financed under this component will develop and pursue detailed climate- and disaster-resilient designs and engineering, while the corresponding capital works will be implemented with use of climate-resilient materials and technological solutions to ensure the improved resilience of all project-financed road infrastructure to extreme weather and, as such, its adaptation to climate change. Capital works will include reconstruction and repair of roads damaged during the May- July 2021 floods and mudflows and reinforcement of all project-supported road segments against floods, mudflows, landslides, rock falls, erosion, avalanches and earthquakes. The focus of the component will be resilience and protection against climate-related risks, while works will also be pursued in a climate-change and seismically resilient manner. Weather resistant paving and construction materials will be utilized, slope stabilization pursued to further protect against climate risks, and resurfacing and retrofitting will utilize climate-resilient materials. Sub-component 1.1: Rehabilitation of roads damaged by the 2021 floods. The project will finance the rehabilitation of priority roads and associated infrastructure damaged by the 2021 floods. Climate-resilient rehabilitation and reconstruction of roads and bridges damaged during the 2021 floods and mudflows will be pursued in Vakhsh, Vose, Shasiddin Shohin and Muminobod Districts in the Khatlon region, re- establishing more resilient regional and local connectivity. Rehabilitation will follow a build-back-better approach for all project-financed roads to enhance adaptation to climate change and associated road resilience to minimize future risks from similar hazards, including for several bridges. Climate- and seismic-resilient rehabilitation designs will be developed and implemented for the following road segments and bridges: • Two bridges on the Dushanbe-Kulma road (km 158 and 165), including any required slope stabilization and protection. • Damaged sections of the Muminobod-Ghesh-Childukhtaron, Muminobod-Momandiyon and Vakhsh-Dangara roads. • One bridge each on the following roads: Tugarak-Qurbonov M village-Faizovi R village (km 0.5), Shobhika-Navobod (km 4.5), Tugarak-Sarichashma-Sh. Shohin (km 21) and Vakhsh-Isoev- Guliston, including any required slope stabilization and protection. This activity will be implemented by the MoT PIG. Sub-component 1.2: Protection and reinforcement of priority roads. The project will finance the reinforcement and protection of one or more segments of priority roads at significant risk of natural hazards posed by climate change, including reconstruction, repair and new installation of measures. This will include rehabilitation of two critical bridges on the Dushanbe-Rudaki road in the Rudaki District (RRS), which is key for transport of goods and equipment between the capital and the south of the country, as well as reinforcement and protection of high-risk locations primarily between Labidjar and Karamik in the corridor connecting Dushanbe with the Kyrgyz Republic through the Rasht Valley (including Roghun, Rasht, Tojikobod and Lakhsh Districts, RRS), which is important for international trade. Sub-component 1.2 may also support reinforcement of roads in the districts supported under Sub-component 1.1. To increase the resilience of roads against hazards such as floods, mudflows, landslides, rock falls, avalanches and earthquakes, capital works financed under this sub-component will pursue climate change-resilient reconstruction, repair and new installations of measures including but not limited to avalanche galleries, snow barriers, retaining walls, flexible rockfall barriers, rockfall drapes, debris flow barriers, larger culverts, strengthened bridges, road realignments, replacement of soft/swamp material, roadbed raising, and surface water drains. The focus will be protection and resilience to climate-related risks including 13 measures directly on the road (culverts, drainage, etc.), measures stabilizing slopes and riverbanks immediately adjacent to the road, and further removed measures to reduce hazards reaching the road (avalanche, mudflow and rock fall netting, fences and barriers). While targeting the reduction of climate risks, these will also be designed and built seismically resistant. Training and capacity building will be financed to enhance the MoT’s and its regional and local road maintenance departments’ abilities to design, implement and maintain structural and non-structural resilience measures, considering climate change projections and the possible consequences. This sub- component also includes procurement of heavy specialized machinery for MoT to prepare for emergency response and maintenance of its infrastructure assets. The technical specifications for procurement of such machinery will be prepared with due attention to climate change mitigation factors and promotion of appropriate technological solutions. This activity will be implemented by the MoT PIG. Climate- and seismic-resilient structural and protection designs will be developed and implemented for the following road segments: • Two major bridges on the Dushanbe-Rudaki road crossing the Kafarnigan River at km 9.800 and crossing the Elok River at km 11.000, including any required slope stabilization and protection. • Informed by the recent World Bank assessment2, detailed feasibility and design studies for climate- and seismic-resilient road upgrading and protection for the Labidjar-Karamik international road. The focus will be protection and resilience to climate-related risks including measures directly on the road (culverts, drainage, etc.), measures stabilizing slopes and riverbanks immediately adjacent to the road, and further removed measures to reduce hazards reaching the road (avalanche, mudflow and rock fall netting, fences and barriers). While targeting the reduction of climate risks, these will be designed and built seismically resistant. Following this detailed assessment, the priority measures will be selected and implemented based on the current project budget. Any remaining measures can be considered for future implementation if relevant and appropriate additional financing is mobilized for the project. • Detailed feasibility and design studies for full rehabilitation and improvement of the “Khatlon” tunnel in Norak City, as well as for a priority bridge site connecting Ayni to the rest of the country, including any required slope stabilization and protection. Future implementation of these designs would only be considered if relevant and appropriate additional financing is mobilized for the project. This activity will be implemented by the MoT PIG. Component 2: Strengthening Disaster Risk Management Capacity. This component is intended to strengthen the country’s technical and institutional capacity for DRM and climate change resilience and adaptation through selected activities that focus on climate and disaster risk understanding and identification, disaster and climate-change preparedness, and financial protection against disasters. Activities aim to address capacity gaps exposed during the May-July 2021 floods and mudflows and identified as priorities under the national climate change adaptation and DRM strategies, building on activities completed and ongoing under SCINHP, in particular expanding and connecting technical and institutional capacities developed at national level to sub-national levels. Sub-component 2.1: Strengthening regional crisis management centers and systems 44. The project will finance (a) necessary works to build or renovate facilities to host CoESCD’s regional crisis management centers (RCMCs) in Khujand, Khorog and Bokhtar; (b) purchasing of required information and communication technology equipment to be installed within the RCMCs, integrated with the national systems being installed in the NCMC and under sub-component 2.2; (c) purchasing of additional mobile command and communication vehicles for the improved crisis management systems at 2 World Bank & GFDRR (2021). Assessment of Economic Impacts from Disasters Along Key Corridors – Final Report. 14 the regional/local levels, as needed, to perform as RCMCs ; (d) consultancy services for expanding the national operations manual for RCMCs; and (e) capacity building for relevant staff and operators of the RCMC and users of mobile command and communication vehicles, as needed. Importantly, all the designs and civil works of RCMC facilities will be executed with risk-informed climate- and natural-hazard resilient designs, energy efficiency solutions and technologies, and climate-resilient materials and technical solutions, and the same will be promoted as part of the national operations manual for RCMCs. This activity will be implemented by the MoF Project Implementation Unit (PIU). 45. Sub Sub-component 2.2. Modernisation of information and communication systems in risk management 46. The project will finance: (a) the improvement of existing radio networks across the country and the establishment of new radio networks in at least major cities and towns; (b) improvement of other ICT networks, e.g. microwave, satellite, fibre optics, etc.; (c) Improve/develop a disaster risk management software framework integrated for existing/future early warning systems and existing disaster management software platforms; (d) Improvement/development of an inter-agency data exchange platform to facilitate real-time data exchange between the entities responsible for monitoring, forecasting and management (CES & CD, Agency on Hydrometeorology (TajikHydromet), etc); (e) policy support, assisting in the creation and populating of a geo-node/website to facilitate consolidated access to existing and new geospatial data and information related to disasters; (f) Developing information dissemination channels (website, SMS services, smartphone applications, etc.) to facilitate the population's access to real-time climate and weather hazard forecasts and warnings; and (g) Supporting TajikHydromet in accessing and using the products of the new CES & CD meteorological radar in Gissar in real time, including support in rehabilitation and improvement of classroom buildings at the existing territory of Gissar weather radar. 47. Sub-component 2.3. Building capacity to respond to emergency situations 48. The project will finance: (a) internationally certified trainings for professional SRS; (b) Training of the population to increase disaster preparedness, including awareness of climate change and the associated risks of increased likelihood of disasters, as well as mitigation measures that can be taken at household, institutional, etc; (c) Preparation of disaster preparedness and climate adaptation modules for different stakeholders (ministries/agencies, vulnerable citizens, industrial areas, small and medium enterprises, health workers, etc.); Construction, equipping and capacity building of a diving training center and a canine (K-9) center at the existing rescuer training center in Karatag; all design and construction works will take into account the risk information, include measures to ensure resilience to climatic and natural hazards and apply solutions and technologies that ensure energy efficiency and materials and technical solutions that ensure resilience to climatic impacts; and strengthening/capacity building of the existing emergency response training center in Karatag (built in the framework of an EU-OSCE project), including through procurement of search and rescue, training, and medical equipment, trainings simulators and modules, specialized vehicles/machinery, as well as rehabilitation or repair of facilities on the territory of the Karatag training center. Sub-component 2.4: Strengthening the basis for structural and seismic resilience The project will finance (a) establishment of a seismic response monitoring system for priority and representative structures and natural ground locations in Dushanbe, with potential to include equipment for on-site examination of such structures and buildings; (b) continued updating of building standards; (c) training and workshops in the application of updated building codes and standards including energy efficiency considerations to mitigate climate change; and (d) building monitoring and enforcement capacities of IGEES. This activity will be implemented by the MoF PIU, with technical inputs and supervision from the IGEES. The Committee of Architecture and Construction (CoAC) will also need to be engaged in activities (b), (c) and (d). Sub-component 2.5: Disaster risk financing 49. The project will finance (a) consulting services to assess the requirements, fiscal realities, needed legislation and regulations, and subsequently designing priority mechanisms to enable establishment and 15 functioning of disaster risk financing instruments; and (b) technical capacity-building activities of the relevant MoF and other involved government entities will also be financed. The potential disaster risk financing mechanisms will help the GoRT ensure sufficient liquidity to respond and recover from climate change and natural hazard shocks. This activity will be implemented by the MoF PIU, with technical inputs and supervision from the relevant departments within the MoF. Component 3: Project Management 50. This component will support incremental operating costs for the implementing agencies (IAs)— the MoF, CoESCD, and MoT — for project execution, including overall project administration and management, prioritization of subprojects, management of social and environmental safeguard issues, financial management (FM), procurement, contract administration, project reporting, and monitoring and evaluation (M&E). Component 4: Contingent Emergency Response Component (CERC) 51. The objective of this component is to enhance Tajikistan’s capacity to respond to clim ate shocks, natural disasters and other eligible crises. An eligible crisis or emergency eligible for financing is an event that has caused, or is likely imminently to cause, a major adverse economic and/or social impact to the Recipient, associated with a natural or man- made crisis or disaster. Rapid disbursement will allow the GoRT to request a reallocation of project funds to partially cover emergency response and recovery costs. This component could be used to reallocate project funds or channel additional funds to fully or partially replenish funds reallocated to the CERC should they become available as a result of an eligible emergency. 1.1. Scope and Objectives of the ESMF 52. Environmental and Social Management Framework (ESMF) is an instrument that examines the issues and impacts associated when a project consists of a program and/or series of sub-projects, and the impacts cannot be determined until the program or sub-project details have been identified. The ESMF sets out the principles, rules, guidelines and procedures to assess the environmental and social impacts. It contains measures and plans to reduce, mitigate and/or offset adverse impacts and enhance positive impacts, provisions for estimating and budgeting the costs of such measures, and information on the agency or agencies responsible for addressing project impacts. 53. As the details of specific interventions (feasibility studies, detailed designs) and their locations under the project are not identified and their specific impacts are not known by project appraisal, in accordance with the ESS1, an Environmental and Social Management Framework (ESMF) has been prepared. It specifies rules and procedures for the activities and for preparing adequate site-specific Environmental and Social Management Plans (ESMPs). 54. ESMF provides guidelines for the development of appropriate mitigation and compensation measures for adverse impact caused by project activities. In this document the background/context, the policy and regulatory framework are described as well as environmental and social impacts of possible subprojects. This includes Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) procedures and guidelines, institutional arrangements, consultation and disclosure procedures. The policy and regulatory framework consider the compliance with the national laws and WB requirements. 55. Approach and Methodology for the preparation of ESMF covers the following: (i) rules and procedures for environmental and social screening of project activities and subprojects to be supported under the project; (ii) guidance for preparing site-specific ESMP or checklist-based ESMP which would include the monitoring plans; (iii) mitigation measures for possible impacts of different proposed activities and subprojects to be supported by the project; (iv) requirements for monitoring and supervision of implementing of ESMPs, implementation arrangements; (v) overview of the capacity of PIU for Environmental and social risk management and capacity building activities that would include other parties on mitigating potential environmental and social risks. 16 56. The ESMF serves also to provide details on procedures, criteria, and responsibilities for subproject environmental and social screening, preparing, implementing and monitoring of subproject specific ESIAs. Towards preparing a RAP, project preparation has developed a Resettlement Framework (RF). The key objective of the Resettlement Framework is to provide a framework to appropriately identify, address and mitigate adverse socioeconomic impacts that may occur due to the implementation of subprojects that involve the involuntary acquisition of land and the subsequent resettlement of affected families. The ESMF serves also to provide details on Labor related risks will be mitigated through the Labor Management Procedures, adopted, disclosed and consulted upon prior to Project Appraisal. 17 II. LEGISLATIVE AND REGULATORY FRAMEWOKS 57. This section describes the regulatory framework that applies to environmental and social aspects with respect to this Project. The environmental and social issues management is based on the requirements of Tajikistan legislation and the WB ESF (Environmental and Social Framework and relevant environmental and social standards. The legislation of the Republic of Tajikistan in relation to the environmental management consists of a significant number of legislative and regulatory acts, including articles of the Constitution, laws, by-laws, resolutions of the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan (GoRT) and international environmental conventions ratified by the Parliament of the Republic of Tajikistan. 2.1. National Environmental Legislation and Procedures of the Republic of Tajikistan 58. The Republic of Tajikistan has a well-developed environmental legal and regulatory framework. Current environmental legislation in Tajikistan includes statutory acts and laws on the following: • Protection of the environment; • Ecological audit and monitoring; • Protection of flora and fauna; • Environmental information and education; • Soil, water, and air quality; • Biological safety; • Human health and safety; and • Waste and chemicals management. 59. Environmental legislation in the Tajik Republic includes the Constitution and codes and laws on air quality, noise, mineral resources, land management, forests, health and safety, and waste and chemicals management. The Tajikistan Framework Environment Law was adopted in 1993, enacted in 1994, and amended in 1996, 1997, 2002, 2004, and 2007, and replaced by a new law in 2011. The Water Code was enacted in 2000 and amended in 2008, 2009, 2011 and 2012. The Land Code was enacted in 1996 and amended in 1999, 2001, 2004, 2006, 2008, 2011, and 2012. The Forest Code was enacted in 1993 and amended in 1997 and 2008. The Health Code was enacted in 2017 amended in 2021. 60. Other important environmental legal acts, laws and regulations relevant to the project are listed below. Table 1: Relevant Environment, Health, and Safety Laws in Tajikistan Enacted and Responsible Law Brief Description Amended Agency Law on No.760 enacted on CEP and its The Law defines the state principles of Environmental August 2011 last subdivisions at the environmental protection and sustainable social Protection amended in June district level and economic development, guarantees of human 2022 rights for healthy and friendly environment, law enforcement strengthening, prevention of negative impact of business and other operations on the environment, management of rational use of nature resource and securing environmental safety. Chapter 6 requires an Environmental Impact Assessment and Chapter 7 specifies requirements for the location, design, construction, reconstruction and commissioning of enterprises, buildings, and other facilities. 18 Enacted and Responsible Law Brief Description Amended Agency Law on No.1448 enacted on CEP and its The Law establishes the legal and organizational Environmental 18 July 2017 subdivisions at the framework for assessing environmental impacts, Impact Assessment district level relationship with state environmental expertise, and the procedures for registering and classifying environmental impacts on the environment. Law on No. 707 enacted on CEP and its The Law defines the organizational, legal, Environmental 25 March 2011 subdivisions at the economic and social bases for ensuring Monitoring district level environmental monitoring in the Republic of Tajikistan and regulates relations between state authorities, self-government bodies of settlements and villages, public associations and citizens in this area. Law on No. 705 enacted on CEP and its The Law defines the legal, organizational, Environmental 25 March 2011 subdivisions at the economic, and social basis for providing Information district level environmental information in the Republic of Tajikistan, promotes the right of legal entities to receive complete, reliable and timely environmental information, and regulates relations in this area. Law on No. 818 enacted on CEP and its This Law defines the principles and procedure Environmental 16 April 2012 subdivisions at the for conducting environmental expertise and is Expertise district level aimed at preventing the harmful impact of planned economic and other activities on the environment and related social, economic and other consequences of the implementation of the object of environmental expertise. Land Code of the No 326 enacted in Committee on Land Land legislation governs the relations of land Republic of 1996, last amended Management and use and protection, land use and property Tajikistan in July 2022 Geodesy (CLMG) relations, which arise from getting (acquisition) and its subdivisions at or conveying land use rights. the district level Law on Protection No 31 enacted on 17 CEP and its The Law establishes the state policy on the and Use of flora May 2004, last subdivisions at the protection and efficient use of plants; defines amended in 2008 districts; MOA; and legal, economic, and social principles governing TAS the preservation and reproduction of plants. Law on Conservation Enacted on 3 March Ministry of Culture; The Law provides the legal framework for and Usage of 2006 TAS; CEP; FA conservation and use of historical and cultural Historical and heritage objects in Tajikistan as being national Cultural Heritage property of the Tajik people. Law on Soil Enacted on 16 CEP; CLMG; MOA The law defines main principles of state policy, Conservation October 2009 legal framework of public authorities, individual and legal entities for the efficient and safe use of soils, preservation of quality, fertility and soil protection from negative impacts and regulates the variety of relationship related to soil protection. Water Code Enacted on 20 CEP, Ministry of The aims of the Water Code are: (i) protection of October 2000, last Energy and Water state water fund and state water fund lands for amended in 2012 Resources the improvement of the population’s social (MEWR), MOA; condition and environment; (ii) water pollution Geology Head control, impurity, depletion, prevention, and 19 Enacted and Responsible Law Brief Description Amended Agency Office; MoHSP control of water adverse effects; (iii) enhancement and protection of water objects; (iv) strengthening legality and rights protection of individuals and legal entities in the water management field. Law on Protection of Enacted in 1995 and CEP; MoHSP; The Law regulates the relations of individuals Atmospheric Air amended on 28 Hydrometeorology and legal entities, irrespective of ownership December 2012 Agency form, with the aim of conservation, rehabilitation of atmospheric air, and securing environmental safety. Law on Production No. 109 enacted on CEP; MOH; State The Law regulates the relations arising from the and Consumption of 10 May 2002, last Unitary Enterprise on process of waste generation, collection, storage, Waste amended in 2011 Municipal Housing utilization, transport, and deactivation and and Utilities landfilling of wastes and state management, (SUEMHU) supervision and control of waste management. It aims to prevent the negative impact of production and consumption wastes on the environment and human health, and when handling these, their involvement in economic and production turnover as an additional stock source. Protection of Enacted on 15 July Committee for The Law defines the organizational and legal Population and 2004 Emergency framework for the protection of the population Territories from Situations and and persons without citizenship in the territory of Natural and human- Civil Defense the Republic of Tajikistan, as well as the lands, made Emergencies (CESCD) and its interiors, water, airspace, animals and plants, and structural other natural resources of Tajikistan; objects of subdivisions industrial and social purpose; and environment from natural and man-made emergencies. It regulates public relations on prevention, occurrence and development of emergencies, reduction of damages and losses, elimination of emergency situations and timely notification of populations in danger zones during natural and man-made emergencies. Labor Code of the Enacted on 23 July MoLME; MoHSP The Code regulates labor and other relations and Republic of 2016 is directly aimed at the protection of the rights Tajikistan and freedoms of the parties in labor relations, securing minimal guarantees of labor rights and freedoms Public Health Code Enacted on 30 May MoHSP The Code regulates public health relations and 2017 aims to implement constitutional rights and health protection of citizens. Chapter 17 of the Code secures sanitary and epidemiological safety 61. These laws, along with the regulations approved by the Government, create a favorable legal framework for environmental protection and for the use and protection of the country’s natural resources. They also enforce the rights of citizens to environmental safety, organic products, eco-friendly environment, access to environmental information, and the possibility of investing (moral, material, and financial) to improve the ecological situation in the country. 62. Framework environment law. The “framework environment law”/Law on Environment Protection was adopted in 2011 (21 July 2011, № 208). The previous Law on Nature protection was adopted in 1993 20 and amended in 1996, 2002, 2004 and expired in 2011. The Law stipulates that Tajikistan's environmental policy should give priority to environmental actions based on scientifically proven principles to combine economic and other activities that have an impact on the environment with nature preservation and the sustainable use of resources. The Law defines the applicable legal principles, the protected objects, the competencies and roles of the Government, the State Committee for Environment, the local authorities, public organizations and individuals. The Law stipulates also measures to secure public and individual rights to a safe and healthy environment and requires a combined system of ecological expertise and environmental impact assessment of any decision on an activity that could have a negative impact on the environment. The Law also defines environmental emergencies and ecological disasters and prescribes the order of actions in such situations, defines the obligations of officials and enterprises to prevent and eliminate the consequences, as well as the liabilities of the persons or organizations that caused damage to the environment or otherwise violated the Law. The Law establishes several types of controls over compliance with environmental legislation: State control, ministerial control, enterprise control and public control. State control is affected by the Committee for Environment Protection, the Sanitary Inspectorate of the Ministry of Health, the Inspectorate for Industrial Safety and the Mining Inspectorate. Adopted in 2014, the amendment to the law allows environmental inspectors to use firearms and other special means. Public control is carried out by public organizations or trade unions and can be exercised with respect to any governmental body, enterprise, entity or individual. 63. Water Code. The Water Code (2000) stipulates the policies on water management, permitting, dispute resolution, usage planning and cadaster. It promotes rational use and protection of water resources exercised by all beneficiaries and defines the types of water use rights, authority and roles of regional and local governments for water allocations among various users, collection of fees, water use planning, water use rights and dispute resolution. The Code delegates Water User Associations to operate and maintain on-farm irrigation and drainage infrastructure. Since 2010, the Water Code of 2000 has been amended and supplemented in 2011 and 2012. In 2011, users of hydropower sources, which produce less than 30,000 kWh of electricity, were exempt from payment for the use of water resources. In 2012, a new chapter was added to the Code, devoted to basin management of water resources. It provides for the creation of the National Water Council to coordinate the activities of various bodies for basin water resources management and the development of basin plans for the use and protection of water resources, as well as the establishment of basin water councils. 64. Land Code. The current Land Code (1992) defines the types of land use rights, the authority and the role of regional and local governments for land allocation, collection of land taxes, land use planning, land use right mortgaging and settlement of land disputes. It defines the rights of land users and lease holders, and also defines the use of a special land fund for the purpose of land privatization and farm restructuring. The law does not provide for purchase or sale of allotted land. The Land Code regulates land relations and it is directed at the rational “use and protection of land and fertility of the soil…3 .” The land may be used in a rational manner only and the Code allows local authorities to decide what constitutes “rational” land use. It includes also mechanisms that make it possible to take the land -use permit away from farmers, including in situations where land use causes land degradation. This decision is taken by the rayon administration. 65. Health Code. In 2011 the amendments and additions to the Law "On Ensuring Sanitary and Epidemiological Safety of the Population" of 2003 (This law expired on May 30, 2017 after adoption of the Health code.) introduced the concept of sanitary and epidemiological expertise that establishes the compliance of project documentation and economic activities with the state sanitary and epidemiological norms and rules, as well as strengthened provisions on sanitary-hygienic, anti-epidemic and information measures. 3 Land Code (1992) 21 2.1.1. Environmental Assessment Framework 66. Framework environment law. The “framework environment law”/Law on Environment Protection was adopted in 2011 (21 July, 2011, № 208). The previous Law on Nature protection was adopted in 1993 and amended in 1996, 2002, 2004 and expired in 2011. The Law stipulates that Tajikistan's environmental policy should give priority to environmental actions based on scientifically proven principles to combine economic and other activities that have an impact on the environment with nature preservation and the sustainable use of resources. The Law defines the applicable legal principles, the protected objects, the competencies and roles of the Government, the State Committee for Environment, the local authorities, public organizations and individuals. The Law stipulates also measures to secure public and individual rights to a safe and healthy environment and requires a combined system of ecological expertise and environmental impact assessment of any decision on an activity that could have a negative impact on the environment. The Law also defines environmental emergencies and ecological disasters and prescribes the order of actions in such situations, defines the obligations of officials and enterprises to prevent and eliminate the consequences, as well as the liabilities of the persons or organizations that caused damage to the environment or otherwise violated the Law. The Law establishes several types of controls over compliance with environmental legislation: State control, ministerial control, enterprise control and public control. State control is affected by the Committee for Environment Protection, the Sanitary Inspectorate of the Ministry of Health, the Inspectorate for Industrial Safety and the Mining Inspectorate. Adopted in 2014, the amendment to the law allows environmental inspectors to use firearms and other special means. Public control is carried out by public organizations or trade unions and can be exercised with respect to any governmental body, enterprise, entity or individual. 67. State ecological expertise. The Law on Environment Protection No. 208 (2011), the Law on State Ecological Expertise (2011), and the Procedures on Organization and Performance of Environmental Assessment (2014) stipulate that all types of economic and other activities shall be implemented in accordance with environmental standards and norms and shall have sufficient environmental protection and mitigation measures to prevent and avoid pollution and enhance environmental quality. They define a state ecological expertise (SEE) process that examines the compliance of proposed activities and projects with the requirements of environmental legislation and standards and the ecological security of the society. SEE is a mandatory cross-sectoral process that must be scientifically justified, comprehensive, and objective. It precedes decision making about activities that may have a negative impact on the environment. 68. Financing of programs and projects and decisions on siting, construction, or reconstruction are allowed only after a positive SEE finding has been issued. If these requirements are violated, the CEP and/or other duly authorized control bodies may terminate construction until necessary improvements are made. SEE for investment projects is the responsibility of the CEP and its regional offices. 69. Environmental assessment administrative framework. The Law on Environmental Protection (2011) states that SEE is to be conducted by the State Committee for Environment. A unit in the ministry is entrusted with guiding and managing both EIA and SEE. 70. EIA studies. Preparation of an environmental impact assessment (EIA) study is the responsibility of the project proponent. EIAs are to analyze the short- and long-term environmental, genetic, economic, and demographic impacts and consequences of projects and must meet the standards of other sectors and environmental media line agencies (sanitary epidemiological, geological, water, etc.). 71. Environmental clearance. The CEP is the authority responsible for the state’s review of EIAs and the environmental clearance of civil works. 2.1.2 Environmental Assessment Requirements of Tajikistan 72. There are two laws in the country that stipulate all aspects of environmental assessment: (i) Law on Environmental Protection (2011); and (ii) Law on Ecological Expertise. Chapter V, Articles 3539 of the Law on Environmental Protection (2011), introduces the concept of state ecological review (literally, state 22 ecological expertise or SEE), which seeks to examine the compliance of proposed activities and projects with the requirements of environmental legislation and standards and ecological security of the society. 73. The following activities and projects are subject to state ecological review: • Draft state programs, pre-planning, pre-project, and design documentation for economic development; • Regional and sector development programs; • Spatial and urban planning, development, and design; • Environmental programs and projects; • Construction and reconstruction of various types of facilities irrespective of their ownership; • Draft environmental quality standards and other normative, technology, and methodological documentation regulating economic activities; and • Existing enterprises and economic entities. 74. An EIA is a component of the SEE, as set out in the 2011 Environmental Protection Law and in the 2012 Law on State Ecological Expertise, which comprise both the department within the CEP and the process. Conducting the EIA is the responsibility of the project proponent. The state ecological review, which comprises the process component only for all investment projects, is the responsibility of the CEP and its regional offices. Furthermore, according to the 2012 Law on State Ecological Expertise, all civil works, including rehabilitation, should be assessed for their environmental impacts, and the proposed mitigation measures should be reviewed and monitored by the CEP. 75. According to the 2012 Law on Ecological Expertise, ecological expertise is intended to prevent negative impacts on the environment as a result of a proposed activity, forecast impacts from activities that are not considered as necessarily damaging to the environment, and create databases on the state of the environment and knowledge about human impact on the environment. 76. The Law on Ecological Expertise and the Law on Environmental Protection envisage two types of ecological expertise: SEE and public ecological expertise, which are not given equal importance. While SEE is a prerequisite for beginning any activity that may have an adverse environmental impact, public ecological expertise becomes binding only after its results have been approved by a SEE body. 77. The SEE body is authorized to invite leading scientists and qualified outside specialists to participate in the review. Approval should be issued within 30 days, unless the project developer agrees to an extension, and remains valid for two years, if the decision is positive. For very complicated projects, the term of consideration and approval can be extended till 60 days. 78. According to the Law on SEE, the public ecological expertise of economic activities or other activities, the implementation of which can negatively impact the environment or population living in the relevant area, can be carried out by any public organization and citizen. They have the right to send the proposals to the responsible government bodies concerning environmental issues of implementing planned activities and to receive information on the results of the conducted SEE from relevant responsible bodies. The materials reflecting the public expertise delivered to the experts’ commission should be taken into consideration in the preparation of the conclusion of SEE and decision making on the realization of the SEE object. Public ecological expertise is carried out under the state registration of application of public organizations. The registration can be done by local executive authorities (within seven days) in place where the expertise activities are planned. Public organizations, which are organizing the SEE, should inform the population of the initiation of the expertise and its results. 79. The legal and regulatory system for EIAs also includes: • the Procedure of environmental impact assessment (adopted by the Resolution of the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan as of 01.11.2018 №532): Guidelines on the composition, order of development, coordination and approval of design estimates for construction of facilities, buildings and structures and EIA chapters, state expertise appraisal and feasibility documents; 23 • Procedure to implement SEE (approved by the Resolution of the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan No. 697 of 3 December 2012); • Guidelines on the composition and order of development of content and structure of the documentation to be submitted for review (SEE), as well as coordination and approval of all projected budget or investment estimations, design drawings or documentation that must be developed in coordination with the SEE, buildings and structures and EIA chapters, Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) and feasibility documents; and • A List of objects and kinds of activity for which preparation of documentation for environment impact assessment is mandatory (adopted by the Resolution of the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan as of 01.11.2018 №532). The List is very extensive: it contains 180 types of activities, grouped according to four environmental impact categories: from A (in Cyrillic sounds A) "high risk" to Г (in Cyrillic sounds G) "local impact"). If the facility/activity is not included in the list, then it is not required to pass either an EIA or a SEE. 80. The elaborated existing normative legal base is intended for determination of legal basis for project implementation and their compliance with state requirements for environmental protection and mitigation of environmental impact. 81. In the Republic of Tajikistan, the organizations with most responsibility for environmental monitoring and management are the CEP, the Sanitary Inspectorate of MOHSPP, the Inspectorate for Industrial Safety, and the Mining Inspectorate. An environmental licensing system exists in relation to handling hazardous waste and mineral extraction. An environmental permitting system regulates the use of natural resources. 82. The Environmental Protection Law states that a SEE should be conducted by CEP, which is the authorized state environmental protection body. The CEP has a comprehensive mandate that includes policy formulation and inspection duties. It has divisions at the oblast (region), city, and rayon (district) levels in the form of Departments of Environmental Protection within the Khukumat (local administration) at each city or rayon/district. 2.1.3. EIA Procedure 83. Governing laws and activities subject to state ecological (or environmental) expertise (SEE) that may involve an EIA or activities subject to SEE may involve the conduct of an EIA. 84. The following impact types are considered in EIA: • Direct impact, immediately influenced by the main and subsidiary types of planned activities within the territory of the site; • Indirect impact influenced by intermediate (secondary) factors emerging as a result of project implementation; and • Cumulative impact, which is of specific nature and emerges within the project implementation period. 85. EIA are reviewed by the state environment expertise in conformity with the assessment objective and classification up to 60 days. 86. The decision on determining the appropriate procedure for SEE of EIA documents is taken by the authorized agency within a period of not more than 10 days after submission of the documents for registration. The decision on SEE related to EIA documents is obligatory for implementation by the Client for any planned economic or other activity. 87. There are four categories of environmental impact of facilities subjected to SEE and EIA: I, high risk; II, medium risk; III, low risk; and IV, local impact. Requirements and terms of SEE and EIA differ according to the category of a facility. 24 2.2. Key National Social Legal Provisions and Citizen Engagement Legal Framework 88. Law on Freedom of Information is underpinned by Article 25 of the Constitution, which states that governmental agencies, social associations and officials are required to provide each person with the possibility of receiving and becoming acquainted with documents that affect her or his rights and interests, except in cases anticipated by law. 89. Per the Law on Public Associations, a public association may be formed in one of the following organizational and legal forms: public organization, public movement, or a body of public initiative. Article 4 of this law establishes the right of citizens to found associations for the protection of common interests and the achievement of common goals. It outlines the voluntary nature of associations and defines citizens’ rights to restrain from joining and withdrawing from an organization. August 2015 amendments to this legislation require non-governmental organizations to notify the Ministry of Justice about all funds received from international sources prior to using the funds. 90. Law on Public Meetings, Demonstrations and Rallies (Article 10) bans persons with a record of administrative offenses (i.e. non-criminal infractions) under Articles 106, 460, 479 and 480 of the Code for Administrative Offences from organizing gatherings. Article 12 of the Law establishes that the gathering organizers must obtain permission from local administration fifteen days prior to organizing a mass gathering. 91. Civil Code of Republic of Tajikistan establishes the procedure for exercising property rights and other property rights, rights to the results of intellectual activity, regulates contractual and other obligations, as well as other property and related personal non-property relations, based on equality, independence of will and property independence of their participants. Family, labor affairs, relations on the use of natural resources and environmental protection shall be regulated by the civil legislation, unless otherwise stipulated by the laws on family, labor, land and other special legislation. 92. Land Code contains basic provisions on land acquisition for public and state purposes. The Code allows the state to seize the land from land users for the needs of projects implemented in the interests of state and at the state scale, and describes methods, system and order of protection of rights and interests of persons whose land is subject for withdrawal for the purposes of the project, and provides for the complex of compensatory measures to cover the land users’ losses. The Regulation about an order of compensation of the land users’ losses and losses of agricultural production, approved by the Resolution of the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan # 641, dd. 30th December, 2011, establishes concrete and detailed order of reimbursement of the land users’ losses. 93. Law on Physical and Legal Entity Addresses contains legal provisions on established information channels for citizens to file their complaints, requests and grievances. Article 14 of the Law sets the timeframes for handling grievances, which is 30 days from the date of receipt. 94. Labour Code prohibits forced labour (Article 8). The Labor Code also sets the minimum age at which a child can be employed as well as the conditions under which children can work (Articles 113, 67, and 174). The minimum employment age is 15, however, in certain cases of vocational training, mild work may be allowed for 14 year olds (Article 174 of the Labor Code). In addition, there are some labour restrictions on what type of work can be done, and what hours of work are permissible by workers under the age of 18. Examples of labor restrictions include: those between 14 and 15 cannot work more than 24 hours per week while those under 18 cannot work more than 35 hours per week; during the academic year, the maximum number of hours is half of this, 12 and 17.5 hours, respectively. These limitations are consistent with the ILO Convention on Minimum Age. In addition, Law on Parents Responsibility for Children’s Upbringing and Education makes parents responsible for ensuring their children not involved in heavy and hazardous work and they are attending school. 95. Law of Republic of Tajikistan on Appeals of Physical and Legal Entities (2016) contains legal provisions on established information channels for citizens to file their complaints, requests and grievances. 25 Article 14 of the Law sets the timeframes for handling grievances, which is 15 days from the date of receipt that do not require additional study and research, and 30 days for the appeals that need additional study. These legal provisions will be taken into account by the project-based Grievance mechanism. 96. The Public Health Code (2017) governs the public relations in the field of health care and is directed to realization of constitutional rights of citizens and health protection. The Code includes sections on responsibilities of the healthcare system and the sanitary and epidemiological protection. 97. Law on Targeted Social Assistance (2017) provides legal, financial and institutional basis for targeted social assistance delivery to low-income citizens (households). Article 4 of the Law underlines the accessibility of the targeted social assistance to vulnerable households. Article 10 describes the targeted social assistance application forms and assignment procedures. Article 11 identifies two forms of the targeted social assistance, including monetary aid and in-kind support (food products, cloths, medicine etc.) 98. The legal and regulatory framework at the national and local levels provides an adequate and appropriate enabling framework for implementing the key activities to be supported under the Project. Responsiveness to complainants' inquiries/questions, and public accountability are adequately covered by the legal framework at different levels. The legislation highlights the importance of state's commitment to serving and ensuring citizen protection, in general, and people to be affected by the project in particular. The laws on access to information, consumer rights; grievance redress; and ethics codes in place stipulate rules governing fair services. 2.3. National Sectoral Legal Framework 99. Tajikistan also has key policies and strategies which detail road maps for the country’s short-term and long-term development. Of relevance to the preparedness to emergency situation is National Strategy for Disaster Risk Reduction of the Republic of Tajikistan for 2019-2030. 100. Strategy of Disaster Risk Reduction of the Republic of Tajikistan for the period up to 2030 included: • a number of measures to reduce the number of deaths, casualties and damage caused by natural disasters by 2030, compared with the period 2005-2015. • ensure that all stakeholders have access to information on disaster risk; • integrate disaster risk management measures into the development process; • improve disaster preparedness and response mechanisms; 2.4. International Treaties and Obligations 101. Under the Republic of Tajikistan unified (monist) legal system, international agreements and treaties, once ratified or acceded to by the Government, have the same force as national legislation. 102. Tajikistan is party to several international environmental conventions and protocols. It has passed state laws to implement the terms of these international conventions, with the provision that, “If an international treaty to which Tajikistan is a party is inconsistent with this law, then the provisions of the international treaty shall prevail.” 103. International environmental and social conventions. In recognition of its global responsibilities, Tajikistan is a party to several international environmental and social conventions. The major ones are shown in Table 2 26 Table 2: Relevant International Environmental and Social Conventions Year of International Convention Accession UN Convention on Biological Diversity , 1997. Related updates to the Convention on 1997 Biological Diversity are: Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety to the Convention on Biological Diversity, 2004; Nagoya Protocol on Access to Genetic Resources and the Fair and Equitable Sharing of Benefits Arising from their Utilization to the Convention on Biological Diversity, signed in 2011 and ratified in 2013. UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, 1998; A related update is the 1998 Kyoto Protocol accessed on 29 December 2008 and entered into force on 29 March 2009. UN Convention on Combating Desertification 1997 Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer, 1996 and updated by the 1996 Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer (Montreal), 1998; London Amendments to Montreal Protocol on Ozone Depleting Substances, 1998; Copenhagen Amendments to Montreal Protocol on Ozone Depleting Substances, 2009; Montreal Amendments to Montreal Protocol on Ozone Depleting Substances, 2009; Beijing Amendments to Montreal Protocol on Ozone Depleting Substances, 2009. Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Fauna and Flora (CITES) 2016 Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) (ratified 2007); Related 2007 updates: 2009 amendments listing 9 new Persistent Organic Pollutants, 26 August 2010; 2011 amendment listing endosulfan, 27 October 2012; and 2013 amendment listing HBCD, 26 November 2014. UNESCO Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural 1997 Heritage Aarhus Convention (joined 2001); A related update is the Kiev Protocol on Pollutant 2003 Release and Transfer Registers to the Convention on Access to Information on 21 May 2003. Bonn Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (joined 2001 2001); A related update is the Bukhara Deer Memorandum, 2002. International Convention for the Protection of New Varieties of Plants UPOV Convention 2012 (1961), as revised at Geneva (1972, 1978 and 1991) Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and 2016 their Disposal The Rotterdam Convention on Prior Informed Consent (PIC) Procedure for Certain 1998 Hazardous Chemicals and Pesticides in International Trade Occupational Safety and Health Convention 2009 Tripartite Consultation (International Labor Standards) Convention 2014 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage 2006 International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights 1999 Convention on the Elimination of all forms of Discrimination Against Women 1993 Convention on Minimum Age for Admission to Employment 1993 Convention on Worst Forms of Child Labor 2005 27 Abolition of Forced Labor Convention 1999 Employment Policy Convention 1993 Labor Inspection Convention 2009 UN Convention on the Rights of the Child CRC 1993 2.5. World Bank's Environmental and Social Standards and their requirements 104. The World Bank is committed to supporting Borrowers in the development and implementation of projects that are environmentally and socially sustainable, and to enhancing the capacity of Borrowers' environmental and social frameworks to assess and manage the environmental and social risks and impacts of projects. To this end, the Bank has defined specific Environmental and Social Standards (ESSs), which are designed to avoid, minimize, reduce or mitigate the adverse environmental and social risks and impacts of projects. ESSs define the material standards of protection, procedural requirements, and individual rights of the project-affected communities, which borrowers must comply with and whose fulfilment the World Bank supports and works with borrowers to ensure compliance during implementation. The standards carry over numerous environmental and social requirements. 105. The Environmental and Social Framework (ESF) enables the World Bank and Borrowers to better manage environmental and social risks of projects and to improve development outcomes. It was launched on October 1, 20184. The ESF offers broad and systematic coverage of environmental and social risks. It makes important advances in areas such as transparency, non-discrimination, public participation, and accountability—including expanded roles for grievance mechanisms. It brings the World Bank’s environmental and social protections into closer harmony with those of other development institutions. The ESF consists of: o the World Bank’s Vision for Sustainable Development o the World Bank’s Environmental and Social Policy for Investment Project Financing (IPF), which sets out the requirements that apply to the Bank o the 10 Environmental and Social Standards (ESS), which set out the requirements that apply to Borrowers o Bank Directive: Environmental and Social Directive for Investment Project Financing o Bank Directive on Addressing Risks and Impacts on Disadvantaged or Vulnerable Individuals or Groups 106. The WB Environmental and Social Standards (ESSs) are the followings: - ESS 1: Assessment and Management of Environmental and Social Risks and Impacts; - ESS 2: Labor and Working Conditions; - ESS 3: Resource Efficiency and Pollution Prevention and Management; - ESS 4: Community Health and Safety; - ESS 5: Land Acquisition, Restrictions on Land Use and Involuntary Resettlement; - ESS 6: Biodiversity Conservation and Sustainable Management of Living Natural Resources; - ESS 7: Indigenous Peoples/Sub-Saharan African Historically Underserved Traditional Local Communities; - ESS 8: Cultural Heritage; - ESS 9: Financial Intermediaries; and - ESS 10: Stakeholder Engagement and Information Disclosure. 107. The requirements of these ESSs and their implications for the current project are presented in Table 3 below. 4 https://www.worldbank.org/en/projects-operations/environmental-and-social-framework 28 108. The ESMF found that both environmental and social (E&S) risks for the Project are assessed as Moderate. The following Environmental and Social Standards (ESS) are relevant to the Project: ESS 1 - Assessment and management of environmental and social risks and impacts; ESS 2 - Labor and working conditions; ESS 3 - Resource efficiency, environmental pollution and management; ESS 4 - Community Health and Safety; ESS 5 - Land Acquisition, Restrictions on Land Use and Involuntary Resettlement; and ESS 10 - Stakeholder Engagement and disclosure. 2.6. Applicability of the WBG EHS Guidelines The project will apply the relevant requirements of the World Bank Group's Environmental, Health and Safety Guidelines (EHSG5). Construction contracts will include social and environmental mitigation measures based on the WBG EHSGs. Environmental and social instruments have also been developed for the project under the WB ESF and are referred to in the Environmental and Social Commitment Plan (ESCP): Resettlement Policy Framework (RPF), Labor Management Procedures (LMP) and Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP 5 https://www.ifc.org/wps/wcm/connect/topics_ext_content/ifc_external_corporate_site/sustainability-at-ifc/policies- standards/ehs-guidelines 29 Table 3: The WB Environmental and Social Standards relevant to the Project ENVIRONMENTAL RELEVANCE AND SOCIAL MAIN REQUIREMENTS ADDRESSING ESSs RATE STANDARDS (ESS) ESS 1. Assessment and Relevant ESS1 sets out the Borrower’s responsibilities for assessing, This ESMF prepared by the Project shows that, overall, the Management of managing and monitoring environmental and social risks and project will provide a series of positive social and environmental Environmental and Social impacts associated with each stage of a project supported by impacts. Such as preparedness to the risks of emergency Risks and Impacts the Bank through Investment Project Financing, in order to situations, improving access to communities through achieve environmental and social outcomes consistent with rehabilitation of damaged roads and bridges. the Environmental and Social Standards (ESSs). The project may have some adverse environmental and social As required by this standard, the ESIA should be conducted impacts associated with the potential construction and/or based on current information, including a description and rehabilitation of physical infrastructure or construction regional delineation of the project and any associated aspects, and crisis management centers project districts (such as waste, noise, environmental and social baseline data at an appropriate level dust, air pollution, health hazards and labour safety issues). of detail sufficient to inform characterization and Construction impacts can be easily mitigated by applying good identification of risks and impacts and mitigation measures. construction practices and following the provisions of the The assessment evaluates the project’s potential Environmental and Social Management Plans. environmental and social risks and impacts, with a particular As it is not possible to identify all the activities and sub-projects attention to those that may fall disproportionally on to be financed before appraisal, the Borrower has prepared an disadvantaged and/or vulnerable social groups; examine Environmental and Social Management Framework (ESMF) in project alternatives; identify ways of improving project line with ESS1, which sets out the rules and procedures for the selection, siting, planning, design and implementation in Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) of the order to apply the mitigation hierarchy for adverse activities and sub-projects and for the preparation of environmental and social impacts and seek opportunities to Environmental and Social Management Plans (ESMPs). enhance the positive impacts of the project. The client has years of WB financed project implementation experiences. Particularly, the SCINHP project which was prepared under old OP/BP policies. The existing E&S specialists have necessary expertise in preparation and implementation of E&S studies and management plans. However, under component 1.3, PREPARED will support ESF necessary capacity building for relevant staff. ESS2. Labor and Working Relevant ESS2 recognizes the importance of employment creation and In accordance with ESS2, the Labor Management Procedures Conditions income generation in the pursuit of poverty reduction and (LMP) have been prepared to describe the main labor inclusive economic growth. Borrowers can promote sound requirements and risks associated with project implementation worker- management relationships and enhance the and to assist the MoF in determining the resources required to development benefits of a project by treating workers in the address labor issues. The project will cover the following project fairly and providing safe and healthy working categories of labor: direct and contract labor. conditions. ESS2 applies to project workers including fulltime, part- The LMP provides an overview of the use of labor in the project, time, temporary, seasonal and migrant workers. the legal framework governing the employment of labor in Considering specified requirements, the Borrower must Tajikistan and a gap analysis with the World Bank's ESS 2. It develop and implement written labor management outlines the main potential labor risks and mitigation measures, procedures applicable to the project. These procedures implementation arrangements, roles and responsibilities, and should set out the way in which project workers will be procedures. The establishment of a worker grievance mechanism managed, in accordance with the requirements of national and requirements for contractor management are presented in the law and this ESS. The procedures should address the way in last two chapters. It also includes OHS requirements during the which this ESS will apply to different categories of project COVID-19 pandemic situation and a reference to the WBG's workers including direct workers, and the way in which the Environmental Health and Safety Guidelines, which are Borrower will require third parties to manage their workers applicable to this project. in accordance with ESS2. ESS3 Resource Efficiency Relevant ESS3 recognizes that economic activity and urbanization The ESMF includes sections on pollution prevention and and Pollution Prevention often generate pollution to air, water, and land, and consume management, focusing on issues that may arise during civil works and Management finite resources that may threaten people, ecosystem services for the construction and rehabilitation of facilities. The and the environment at the local, regional, and global levels. assessment of risks and impacts associated with civil works and The current and projected atmospheric concentration of proposed mitigation measures related to relevant requirements of greenhouse gases (GHG) threatens the welfare of current and ESS3, including raw materials, water use, air pollution, hazardous future generations. At the same time, more efficient and materials, organic and hazardous wastes are included in the effective resource use, pollution prevention and GHG ESMPs where relevant. emission avoidance, and mitigation technologies and practices have become more accessible ESS4: Community Health Relevant ESS4 recognizes that project activities, equipment, and There are a number of potential risks to the health and safety of and Safety infrastructure can increase community exposure to risks and the community associated with the project activities. Throughout impacts. In addition, communities that are already subjected the rehabilitation/construction process, the project will generate to impacts from climate change may also experience an both non-hazardous and hazardous waste. All waste management acceleration or intensification of impacts due to project activities will be in accordance with this ESS. The ESMF includes activities. an assessment of occupational health risks, site and road safety, ESS4 addresses the health, safety, and security risks and excessive noise and dust, site security awareness and access impacts on project-affected communities and the restrictions, and influx of labor to address environmental risks and corresponding responsibility of Borrowers to avoid or impacts that may affect community health and safety. All these minimize such risks and impacts, with particular attention to issues had to be included in the site-specific ESMPs to be people who, because of their particular circumstances, may prepared once the investments were identified. The ESMPs be vulnerable. required that fencing be installed around all construction sites and areas where there was a risk to the health and safety of the community. Contractors will develop and adhere to codes of conduct, including requirements for respectful behavior and interaction with local communities and within work sites, prohibition of illicit activities, sexual exploitation and abuse or sexual harassment (SEA/SH), forced or child labor. Additional activities to prevent and mitigate risks of SEA/SH, COVID-19 to be implemented by the Implementing Agency, include the establishment of a GBV-sensitive grievance redress mechanism, training and sensitization of staff, contractors and local communities (neighbors of construction sites) on SEA/SH risks, available support services, codes of conduct to be followed by the Implementing Agency staff and contractors, and available GBV- sensitive grievance redress mechanism. COVID-19 Management plan to be developed as part of the HS management plan and to be followed and adhered to by contractors. Community awareness and preparedness activities will be addressed through the Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP). The stakeholder engagement plan will include the public awareness and education campaign prior to the start of project activities. Covid-19 precautions will be taken into account during outreach activities. ESS5: Land Acquisition, Relevant ESS5 recognizes that project-related land acquisition and There will be no resettlement impacts as the road and bridge Restrictions on Land Use restrictions on land use can have adverse impacts on rehabilitation works will take place within the existing and Involuntary communities and persons. Project-related land acquisition or roads/footpaths. However, "land" will always be required for new Resettlement restrictions on land use may cause physical displacement construction. While the project expects the government to provide (relocation, loss of residential land or loss of shelter), land, due diligence will be required to ensure that there is no economic displacement (loss of land, assets or access to resulting physical and/or economic displacement. The assets, leading to loss of income sources or other means of Resettlement Framework (RF) has been prepared to guide livelihood), or both. The term “involuntary resettlement” activities in this regard. The RF defines procedures for: (i) land refers to these impacts. acquisition (after all technical alternatives have been exhausted), Experience and research indicate that physical and economic (ii) management of residual impacts of land acquisition (i.e. displacement, if unmitigated, may give rise to severe identification, valuation and compensation of people who suffer economic, social and environmental risks: production economic loss or loss of private property), (iii) monitoring and systems may be dismantled; people face impoverishment if verification that policies and procedures are followed, and (iv) their productive resources or other income sources are lost; grievance redress mechanisms. Where resettlement impacts are people may be relocated to environments where their identified, site-specific RAPs will be prepared, disclosed and productive skills are less applicable and the competition for consulted by MoF before construction commences in accordance resources greater; community institutions and social with the RF. networks may be weakened; kin groups may be dispersed; and cultural identity, traditional authority, and the potential for mutual help maybe diminished or lost. Where involuntary resettlement is unavoidable, it will be minimized and appropriate measures to mitigate adverse impacts on displaced persons (and on host communities receiving displaced persons) will be carefully planned and implemented. ESS 6: – Biodiversity Not relevant ESS6 recognizes that protecting and conserving biodiversity This standard is not relevant. However, as part of the ESMF, Conservation and and sustainably managing living natural resources are assess the impacts on natural and critical natural habitats, if Sustainable Management fundamental to sustainable development. Biodiversity is any, and avoid impacts on critical natural habitats. In case of of Living Natural defined as the variability among living organisms from all contact with natural and critical natural habitat areas and Resources sources including, inter alia, terrestrial, marine and other areas with endemic and threatened species, the PIU shall aquatic ecosystems and the ecological complexes of which prepare and implement a Biodiversity Management Plan they are a part; this includes diversity within species, between (BMP) consistent with ESS6 and in a manner species, and of ecosystems. Biodiversity often underpins acceptable to the Association. ecosystem services valued by humans. Impacts on biodiversity can therefore often adversely affect the delivery of ecosystem services. ESS8: Cultural Heritage Not relevant ESS8 recognizes that cultural heritage provides continuity in ESS 8 is not relevant, but as a precautionary measure, chance find tangible and intangible forms between the past, present and procedure is included in the ESMF (Annex 9) and will be part of future. It sets out measures designed to protect cultural mitigation measures to be provided in site-specific ESMPs. heritage throughout the project life cycle. ESS10: Stakeholder Relevant ESS 10 recognizes the importance of open and transparent The MoF will conduct meaningful consultations with all Engagement and engagement between the Borrower and project stakeholders stakeholders as required by ESS10. Key stakeholders include Information Disclosure as an essential element of good international practice. MoT, CoESCD, local governments, community representatives Effective stakeholder engagement can improve the and civil society organizations. A comprehensive Stakeholder environmental and social sustainability of projects, enhance Engagement Plan (SEP) was prepared, disclosed and consulted on project acceptance, and make a significant contribution to prior to appraisal. The SEP defines a program for stakeholder successful project design and implementation. The client will engagement, including public disclosure and consultation, engage with stakeholders throughout the project life cycle, throughout the project cycle. The SEP also outlines how the IAs commencing such engagement as early as possible in the will communicate with local partners and stakeholders as project development process and in a timeframe that enables required, and includes a grievance redress mechanism (GRM) meaningful consultations with stakeholders on project through which stakeholders can submit their concerns/feedback design. regarding project activities. The nature, scope and frequency of stakeholder engagement will be proportionate to the nature and scale of the project The MoF has designed a GRM under the WB-funded and its potential risks and impacts. In consultation with the Strengthening Critical Infrastructure against Natural Hazards that Bank, the Borrower will develop and implement a will respond to complaints registered by citizens on any issue of Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP) proportionate to the concern, including issues related to the project-specific nature and scale of the project and its potential risks and interventions. It will also receive the new project complaints. At impacts. the community level, the project will also use the existing GRMs and disseminate information on the MoF GRM once it is operational. The grievance redress mechanism will include provisions for sensitive grievances, including those related to SEA/SH. 2.6. National Institutional Framework 2.6.1. National Institutions involved in the Environment Sector 109. In order to create an effective system of governance strategic planning and sustainable socio- economic development of the country and in accordance with Article 69 of the Constitution, the environmental institutional and management system has been established by the GoRT which includes various state agencies. Tajikistan's current environmental institutional and management system includes the following institutions: • Parliament, • Presidential Administration, • Committee for Environment Protection (CEP) under the Government of Tajikistan, • State Committee of Statistics, • Ministry of Agriculture, • Ministry of Energy and Water Resources, • Ministry of Health and Social Protection, • Ministry of Economic Development and Trade, • Ministry of Finance, • Agency for Land Reclamation and Irrigation, • Tajik Standard Agency, • Tajik Academy of Science and its research Institutes, • other minor institutions. 110. A brief description of key institutions and their role within the public administration is provided below: 111. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of Tajikistan (namely the Committee for Nature Protection of the Tajik Soviet Socialistic Republic) was established for the first time in August 1989. Its mandate included coordination of the activities related to environmental protection among government agencies and the control over natural resource use, land protection, subsoil, forests, water, and other resources. In 1994 EPA's legal status was improved and reorganized into the Ministry of Nature Protection of the Republic of Tajikistan with the same mandate. However, 10 years later due to restructuring of the GoRT the Ministry became again a State Committee for Environmental Protection and Forestry (SCEPF) in 2004. The EPA mandate was expanded slightly by including the former Forestry Management agency. In 2006 due to further restructuring of the GoRT EPA was merged with the Ministry of Agriculture, which became the Ministry of Agriculture and Environmental Protection. EPA's mandate within the new Ministry was kept the same. During 2008 EPA became the Committee for Environmental Protection (CEP) under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan. 112. CEP coordinates all activities related to environmental protection among GoRT and oversees natural resources use, land protection, subsoil, forests, water, and other resources. The decisions of CEP are considered mandatory for all legal entities and individuals. Currently CEP has a total of 400 staff of which about 50 in Dushanbe Headquarter. 113. The Parliament of Tajikistan plays a key role in determining policies, strategies and rules for sectors that may affect and be affected by environmental factors. It consists of two chambers - (Majlisi Namoyandagon), Lower Chamber, and (Majlisi Oli), Higher Chamber. The Parliament involves relevant legislative committees related to environmental and social risk management which overview relevant sectoral legislation with active role in endorsing supporting laws and regulations (sub-laws). 114. Several Parliamentary committees are of particular relevance: • The Ecological Committee, which oversees environment-related legislation; • The Education Committee, which oversees the Law on Environmental Education and laws regarding post-secondary education and professional (vocational) training; and • The Committee on Social Issues, Family and Healthcare will be essential to integrating environmental social risk management issues into public health, gender and other policies. Parliament's facilities include an information library for members of the Lower Chamber that contains more than 16,500 publications. Among 63 Parliamentarians, 6 are members of the Ecological Committee which work directly on environment-related legislation. 115. The Ministry of Finance aside from economic and financial functions is responsible to review and approve the budgets of state agencies including those related to the environment and climate change. 116. The Ministry of Transport is responsible for the implementation of transportation policy. The environmental impact of the transport infrastructure, as well as transport traffic. At the same time the impact of the climate change on the state of road infrastructure is considered considering roads and bridges washout by mudflows and avalanches. Additionally, the Ministry is relevant to environmental issues because of its participation in the development of a National Strategy for Sustainable Transport. 117. The Committee for Emergency Situations and Civil Defense is the government agency with the task for disaster risk reduction and response and coverage of climate-induced natural disasters. The Committee conducts reviews and analysis of disaster risk assessment in light of climate change, and it has a department that focuses on evacuation and re-settlement. In terms of facilities, the Committee has its headquarters in Dushanbe and representatives in every region and district of the country. The Committee has its own training facilities, and it offers in-service training for its employees. It also has its own chemical- radiometric laboratory. It participates in several CIS-wide initiatives to share good practice, and it has previously used international experts on an extended-term basis through technical assistance projects with good results. 118. The Ministry of Health and Social Protection provides sanitary-epidemiological services to the public. It conducts the state sanitation-epidemiological supervision, carries out activities on environmental safety, environmental protection and sanitation as well as develops national industry health norms, regulations and hygiene standards. The Ministry has an affiliated research institute, the Institute of Epidemiology and Sanitation, and it also manages about 73 sanitary- epidemiological observation stations. The State Epidemiological Service is an independent agency participating in a WHO regional project on health and climate change. The project team has drafted a Strategy for Health and Climate Change. 119. The Ministry of Economic Development and Trade (MEDT) is the government agency with task in overseeing the system of state economic planning and forecasting and facilitating the effective implementation of socio-economic development priorities in Tajikistan. One of the main tasks of this Ministry is to develop and implement economic development programs and strategies of the Republic of Tajikistan with the aim of reducing poverty and stabilizing socio-economic conditions. According to governmental regulations, the Ministry of Economy is to be included in all working groups that develop sustainable strategies, plans and budgets. Representatives of the Ministry are headed the editing group to prepare the country's National Development Strategy and the Poverty Reduction Strategy. The Ministry also monitors the implementation of the two strategies. Among its other roles, MEDT is one of the co- executive bodies of the National Action Plan for Climate Change Mitigation. 120. The Ministry of Finance aside from economic and financial functions is responsible to review and approve the budgets of state agencies including those related to the environment and climate change. 121. The Ministry of Industry and Innovative Technology is involved with environmental issues despite its role as Designated National Authority for Clean Development Mechanism projects conducted under the Kyoto Protocol of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change in Tajikistan. The Ministry is responsible for data flow coordination, monitoring, and analysis under the National Development Strategy process. 2.7. Environmental and social assessment procedures 122. According to WB ESF each project has to comply with national Environmental and Social regulatory framework and WB Environmental and Social Standards (ESS). This chapter provides guidance on the actions required for environmental and social assessment in accordance with national legislation and WB ESSs. Each target RCMC undertaking activities financed by the project will assign one staff member who will be responsible for liaising with the PIU on ESMF implementation throughout the life of the project at that specific RCMC. Implementation of this ESMF will depend on the scale and magnitude of the E&S risks and impacts and will include the development and implementation of the following ESF instruments: 123. Socio-environmental screening – carried out in order to identify the risks of subprojects, their potential impact on the natural and social environment, classify the subproject to any of the risk or hazard categories in accordance with the social and environmental principles of the World Bank and/or national legislation, to determine the appropriate and necessary procedures, documents and tools. • Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) - is an instrument to identify and assess the potential environmental and social impacts of a proposed subproject on new construction, evaluate alternatives, and design appropriate mitigation, management, and monitoring measures. In some cases, for small scale project partial ESIA could be conducted in order assess its location and potential impacts. Indicative outline of ESIA is presented in Annex 5. • Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) - is an instrument that details (a) the measures to be taken during the implementation and operation of a small-scale infrastructure rehabilitation subproject to eliminate or offset adverse environmental and social impacts, or to reduce them to acceptable levels; (b) the actions needed to implement these measures. ESMP template is presented in Annex 6. • ESMP Checklist - simplified ESMP which as a rule used for minor civil works and reconstruction activities with more typical impacts. ESMP Checklist template is presented in Annex 7. 2.7.1. Environmental assessment procedures Main stages of national EA procedures 124. Basic EA Laws. There are three laws in the country that stipulate all aspects of the EA: (a) Law on Environment Protection; and (b) Law on Ecological Expertise and (с) Law on the Environmental Impact Assessment. The Chapter V, Articles 35-39 of the Law on Environment Protection (2011), introduces the concept of state ecological review (literally, state ecological “expertise” – SEE) which seeks to examine the compliance of proposed activities and projects with the requirements of environmental legislation and standards and ecological security of the society. The mentioned laws stipulate the mandatory cross-sectoral nature of SEE, which shall be scientifically justified, comprehensive, and objective and which shall lead to conclusions in accordance with the law. SEE precedes decision-making about activities that may have a negative impact on the environment. Financing of programs and projects is allowed only after a positive SEE finding, or conclusion, has been issued. The following activities and projects subject to state ecological review: a) draft state programs, pre-planning, pre-project, and design documentation for economic development; b) regional and sectoral development programs; c) spatial and urban planning, development, and design; d) environmental programs and projects; e) construction and reconstruction of various types of facilities irrespective of their ownership; f) draft environmental quality standards and other normative, technology, and methodological documentation that regulates economic activities; g) existing enterprises and economic entities, etc. The laws stipulate that all types of economic and other activities shall be implemented in accordance with existing environmental standards and norms and shall have sufficient environmental protection and mitigation measures to prevent and avoid pollution and enhance environmental quality. The EA studies analyzing the short- and long-term environmental, genetic, economic, and demographic impacts and consequences shall be evaluated prior to making decisions on the sitting, construction, or reconstruction of facilities, irrespective of their ownership. If these requirements are violated, construction will be terminated until necessary improvements are made, as prescribed by the Committee for Environmental Protection and/or other duly authorized control bodies, such as sanitary, geological, and public safety agencies. 125. Environmental Impact Assessment. An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) study is a component of the State Ecological Expertise, as set out in the 2011 amendments to the Environmental Protection Law. In 2012 the new Law "On Environmental Expertise" was adopted. In pursuance of this law, the Government subsequently adopted the following: • the Procedure of environmental impact assessment (adopted by the Resolution of the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan as of 01.11.2018 №532): Guidelines on the composition, order of development, coordination and approval of design estimates for construction of facilities, buildings and structures and EIA chapters, SEA and feasibility documents; • A List of objects and kinds of activity for which preparation of documentation for environment impact assessment is mandatory (adopted by the Resolution of the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan as of 01.11.2018 №532). The List is very extensive: it contains 180 types of activities, grouped according to four environmental impact categories: from A (in Cyrillic sounds A) "high risk" to Г (in Cyrillic sounds G) "local impact"). If the facility/activity is no t included in the list, then it is not required to pass either an EIA or a SEE. 126. The EIA is the responsibility of the project proponent. The Procedure for carrying out the EIA (Government Resolution No. 532 of 2018) establishes general requirements for the contents of the EIA documentation. The State Ecological Expertise for all investment projects is the responsibility of the Committee for Environmental Protection under Government of Tajikistan (CEP) and its regional offices. Furthermore, according to the 2012 Law on the State Ecological Expertise, all civil works, including rehabilitation, should be assessed for their environmental impacts and the proposed mitigation measures reviewed and monitored by the CEP. The Law “On Ecological Expertise” and the “Procedure on Environmental Impact Assessment” of 2013 lays down the principles of performing the EIA in Tajikistan. According to this law, capital construction activities are considered activities with potentially high environmental risk. Hence requires an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) studies6 to be prepared by the entity developing such a project. 127. Together with a detailed project description, the EIA study is the basis to go for the environmental permit and must be submitted to the Committee. As a rule, the Committee prepares an expertise to the project within one month. In preparation of this expertise, all subdivisions that might be involved in the project do participate. With this expertise, the permission is given, is not given or given with requirements and obligations that must be followed by the company during construction and/or during operation. If the Committee concludes that an environmental permit cannot be given because e.g. limit values are exceeded 6Resolution of the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan dated November 1, 2018, № 532 “On the list of objects and types of activity that requires developing materials on environmental impact assessment” or other environmental aspects are not sufficiently mitigated, the developer can change its design and submit the impact assessment again. 128. Types of Ecological Expertise. According to the 2011 Law on Ecological Expertise, ecological expertise is intended to prevent negative impacts on the environment as a result of a proposed activity, forecast impacts from activities that are not considered as necessarily damaging to the environment and create databases on the state of the environment and knowledge about human impact on the environment. This Law and the Law on Environment Protection envisage two types of ecological expertise – State ecological expertise and public ecological expertise, which are not given equal importance. While State ecological expertise is a prerequisite for beginning any activity that may have an adverse environmental impact, public ecological expertise becomes binding only after its results have been approved by a State ecological expertise body. The State Ecological Expertise is authorized to invite leading scientists and qualified outside specialists to participate in the review. Approval should be issued within 30 days, unless the project developer agrees to an extension, and remains valid for two years, if the decision is positive. For very complicated projects the term of consideration and approval can be extended till 60 days. According to the Law on SEE the public ecological expertise of economic activities or other activities implementation of which can negatively impact the environment of population which live in relevant area can be carried out by any public organization and citizen. They have right to send the proposals to the responsible government bodies concerning environmental issues of implementation planned activities; to receive information on results of conducted state ecological expertise from relevant responsible bodies. The materials reflecting the public expertise delivered to the experts’ commission should be taken into consideration under preparation of conclusion of state ecological expertise and decision making on realization of expertise object. The public ecological expertise is carried out under the state registration of application of public organization. The registration can be done by local executive authorities (for 7 days) in place where the expertise activities are planned. The public organizations which are organizing this expertise, should inform the population of initiation of expertise and then on its results. 129. Screening categories. The laws on Environment Protection and EE stipulate the Government will approve a list of activities for which the full Environmental Impact Assessment is mandatory. The List of 2018 contains 180 types of activities, grouped according to four environmental impact categories (from (A) "high risk" to (Г (in Cyrillic)) "local impact"). The current system of environmental impact assessment does not provide for any preliminary assessment of the project to decide on the need for an EIA (screening), nor to define the scope of the issues covered and the content of EIA materials as specific procedural steps. The List of objects and activities for which the development of EIA materials is required is very detailed and, in the opinion of government bodies, for this reason there is no need to procedurally consider the issue of carrying out an EIA in each specific case. 130. EA administrative framework. The Environmental Protection Law states that a SEE should be conducted by the CEP, which is designated as a duly authorized state environmental protection body. It has a comprehensive mandate that includes policy formulation and inspection duties. The CEP has divisions at oblast (region), city and rayon (district) level, in the form of Departments of Environmental Protection (DEPs), within the Hukumat (local administration) at each city or rayon. A small unit in the ministry is entrusted with guiding and managing both EIA and SEE. EIA preparation is the responsibility of the proponents of public- and private-sector projects, who, in addition to complying with various environmental standards, procedures, and norms, shall meet the standards of other sectors and environmental media line agencies, such as sanitary-epidemiological, geological, water, etc. 131. Public participation. Article 12 of the Environment Protection Law proclaims the right of citizens to live in a favorable environment and to be protected from negative environmental impacts. Citizens also have the right to environmental information (Article 13), as well as to participate in developing, adopting, and implementing decisions related to environmental impacts (Article 13). The latter is assured by public discussion of drafts of environmentally important decisions and public ecological reviews. Public representative bodies have an obligation to take into consideration citizens’ com ments and suggestions. The Law on the EE also provides the rights to the citizens to conduct a Public Environmental Expertise (art. 7). On 17 July 2001 Tajikistan acceded to the 1998 Aarhus Convention, the provisions of which have priority over domestic law that also stipulates the rights for Public EE. The public has the right to request public hearings to be carried out. For category "A" and "B" projects, the authorized state body should develop a stakeholder engagement plan with the possibility of conducting consultations and taking into account the opinions of citizens. 132. In Tajikistan disagreements are resolved through Jamoats' (Hukumats') grievance mechanism or appeal to court. A grievance redress mechanism (GRM) capable of receiving and facilitating the resolution of affected persons' concerns and grievances related to the project is required as a formalized way for the PIU to identify and resolve concerns and grievances. 133. Environmental norms and standards. Norms are set for air and water pollution, noise, vibration, magnetic fields and other physical factors, as well as residual traces of chemicals and biologically harmful microbes in food. The exceeding of their thresholds results in administrative action, including financial sanctions. Several ministries determine environmental quality standards, each in its field of responsibility. For example, admissible levels of noise, vibration, magnetic fields and other physical factors have been set by the Ministry of Health and social defense of population. 134. Implementation and compliance. Several legal acts establish liability for violations of environmental laws, which can be enforced by several State bodies. In particular, the 2010 Code of Administrative Violations establishes administrative liability for organizations, their officers and individuals for a range of violations, from the careless treatment of land to violation of the rules for water use or water protection or failure to comply with a State ecological expertise. The administrative sanctions for environment related violations can be imposed by the administrative commissions of hukumats, courts, the CEP’s inspectors, the Veterinary Inspectors of the Ministry of Agriculture, and the State Committee for Land Management and Geodesy. The most common administrative sanction is a fine of up to 10 minimal monthly salaries for individuals and up to 15 minimal salaries to officers of organizations. The 1998 Criminal Code covers crimes against ecological safety and the environment, such as violations of ecological safety at work, poaching, and spoiling land, violation of rules for the protection and use of underground resources. The maximum fine is up to 2,000 minimal monthly salaries and the maximum sentence is up to eight years in prison. 135. When detecting violations of environmental legislation, the CEP authorities apply penalties in accordance with the following articles of the Administrative Code of the Republic of Tajikistan. Namely: - Article 223. Violation of standards, rules, regulations, instructions and other environmental requirements for the protection of the environment and the rational use of natural resources; - Article 224. Release (discharge) of polluting substances into the environment with excess of standards or without a permit, waste disposal, physical and other harmful effects - Article 232. Violation of environmental protection requirements during transportation, disposal, use, disposal (dumping) industrial, household and other wastes into the natural environment. 136. The fines can only be witnessed by the local CEP authorities. 2.7.2. Social assessment procedures 137. Social screening is a Mandatory Procedure for the identification of possible involuntary resettlement in accordance with ESS 5 of the World Bank. The Implementing Agency will undertake social screening of each proposed subproject. 138. The social screening is the one of the key steps in identification of further resettlement planning in the projects. The social screening serves to ensure that the process for screening remains simple and concise. The Social Screening Form template is attached in Annex 2. Specific questions based on each activity of the Project might be added as seen relevant by external consultants and the PIU Social Development Specialist. The list of project activities that have potential resettlement issues will then be subjected to a comprehensive sensitization and consultation process with the potentially impacted communities and the outcome of this process would be documented for each subproject. 139. The list and the outcome of the consultative process for each site/project activity on the list would then be sent to the respective implementing agencies in the jurisdiction mandated to confirm, approve, disapprove, refer for further consultation and/or take a final decision on each proposed site/ project activities. Carrying out the screening process in this way is designed to give it the integrity and transparency it needs to allow all stakeholders to have confidence in the process. 140. For project activities that do not have any resettlement issues and do not trigger ESS 5, the provisions of a RF / social provisions of the ESMF does not apply and the reference is the Environmental Focus of the ESMF. 141. The screening and categorization of impact on involuntary resettlement will be initiated by PIU either with its own Social Development Specialist and other relevant staff or, if there are no such skills, with the help of external consultants. The social screening report will be prepared by the Consultant or PIU’s Social Development Specialist and reviewed by authorized person of the Implementing Agency an d PIU Director for clearance. The Social Development Specialist and Director at the PIU will finally endorse the social screening and confirm the necessity to develop the Resettlement Action Plan for the proposed sub-project as described in the project’s RF. 142. Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) is a resettlement instrument (document) to be prepared when subproject locations are identified. RAPs contain specific and legally binding requirements to be abided by to resettle and compensate the affected party before implementation of the project activities causing adverse impacts. Outline of the RAP is enclosed Annex 6 of the RF. III. BASELINE DATA 3.1. Physical Resources 143. Topography and geology. Tajikistan has a mountainous terrain that accounts for 93% of its land area. Its rugged topography ranges from a few hundred meters to 7,000 meters above sea level (masl). China borders the Eastern Pamir Plateau and Uzbekistan borders the Fergana Basin in the north Kyrgyzstan Border. The main elements of Tajik geography are the following: the Kuramin Mountain Range and the Mogoltau Mountains, Fergana Depression, Hissar-Alai Mountains (the South Tian Shan), the depressed area in southwestern Tajikistan (Tajik depression), and Pamir. Altitudes range from 300-7,495 meters above sea level (masl) (Figure 1). The modern relief of Tajikistan is the result of activities of alpine tectonic movements of the earth surface and the denudation process. The majority of plain territories in the country are the broad areas of river valleys or the vast depressions between the mountains. Most of the country’s population is concentrated in these particular areas along with the main fields of industrial production and agricultural potential of the country. Figure 1: Elevation Map of Tajikistan 144. Seismicity. Tajikistan is located near the border between the Eurasian and the Indian plates, a region where relatively large earthquakes occur. It is a country of intense tectonic movements and high seismicity. According to records of the International Institute of Seismology and Earthquake Engineering, there have been seven earthquakes with a magnitude of over 6.5 with epicenter in Tajikistan since 1900 (Table 15). There are many earthquakes near the Afghanistan border in southern Tajikistan. Earthquakes are dependent on many factors: geotechnical conditions, nature of the soil, presence of groundwater, landforms, etc. Major seismic zones in Tajikistan are with 7, 8, and 9 degree seismic intensity on the MSK-64 scale7 (Table 16). In each of these zones, earthquakes at the mentioned levels are possible. Most southern districts are in seismic Zones 7 or 8. Northern districts are in Zone 8, except for Mastchoh District, which is in Zone 7. Dushanbe, the districts of Republican Subordination, and Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region (GBAO) are in Zone 9. The seismic map of Tajikistan showing the subproject locations is shown in Figure 2. Table 4: Major Earthquakes in Tajikistan from 1930-2022 Date Place Latitude Longitude Deaths Injuries Magnitude Comments Rasht district of More than Districts of 2021-10-07 38.96 70.57 5 30 5.7 20 buildings Republican destroyed Subordination Gorno Badakhshan Minor 2021-02-12 Autonomous 38.14 73.55 1 5 5.9 damage Region Gorno Badakhshan Autonomous Minor 2018-05-09 36.99 71.38 0 2 6.2 Region damage Roghun district of Dozens of Districts of 2018-03-29 38.72 69.98 0 0 5.7 houses Republican damaged Subordination Laksh district of Districts of Severe 2017-05-03 39.49 71.44 0 1 6.0 Republican damage Subordination Gorno Badakhshan Many 2015-12-07 Autonomous 38.26 72.77 2 12 7.2 homes Region destroyed Many Districts of buildings 2012-05-13 Republican 38.61 70.35 1 5.7 destroyed / Subordination livestock killed 2011-07-19 Fergana Valley 40.05 71.44 14 86 6.2 2006-07-29 Khatlon Province 37.26 68.83 3 19 5.6 1989-01-22 Gissar 38.47 68.69 274 Many 5.3 7 This normative map of seismic zoning was compiled in 1978 by А.М. Babayev, T.A. Kinyapina, K.M. Mirzoev, R.S. Mikhailova and G.V. Koshlakov under the guidance of S.Kh. Negmatullaev Extreme damage / Kayrakum 1985-10-13 40.3 69.82 29 80 5.9 many (Guliston) homes destroyed Moderate Lakhs *Rasht damage / 1984-10-26 39.16 71.33 6.1 Valley some homes destroyed 1949-07-10 Gharm (Rasht) 39.2 70.8 7,200 7.5 1930-09-22 Dushanbe 38.4 68.5 175 6.3 Source: National Geophysical Data Center (NGDC). Figure 2: Seismic Map of Tajikistan 145. Soils. As a typical alpine country, Tajikistan has vertical variability of soil cover. Three major vertical belts of soil distribution can be found in the country: (i) gray soils of valleys and idle fields; (ii) brown soils of middle belts of mountains; and (iii) soils of highlands. There is a distinguished gradient from the more humid northern part of the study area to the very dry southern part. The soils of the study area are highly productive, with much of the area used for agriculture. In the dry southern part of the subproject area, agricultural use is, however, only possible when soils are irrigated. Soil erosion is a major environmental concern throughout the country due to seismic activity, steep slopes, the fragility of soils, and human activities such as inappropriate livestock management, the removal of protective vegetative cover, and poor water management practices. 146. Soil profiles are typically loess, loamy sands, and loamy soils, occasionally bench gravel of the upper quaternary age, classically formed through wind deposition over arid or semi-arid areas. Soils are brown-gray, light gray. The humus layer of the loess and loamy sands is fairly fertile and agriculture is possible. For these soils to be converted into agricultural use, they require irrigation and the mineral fertilizers (Figure 3). Figure 3: Soil Map of Tajikistan 147. Air quality. The problem of air quality is one of the basic ecological issues of industrial and urbanized areas in Tajikistan. The main stationary sources of air pollution in Tajikistan are mining, metallurgy, chemical industries, buildings, mechanical processing, light industries, heat and power generation, and agriculture. 148. In 2005, the share of motor transport emissions was 170,300 tons (t) or 83 % of the total amount of pollutants released into the atmosphere. Motor transport is the main source of substances accumulating in the atmospheric surface layer. Products of fuel combustion are released to the atmosphere and generate smog. Old vehicles with increased toxic gas emissions comprise 30-40% of the total number of vehicles for road transportation. The exhaust emissions include about 200 chemical components and dangerous substances such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide, hydrocarbons, lead, etc. 149. Typically, a vehicle with an internal combustion engine using 1,000 liters (l) of fuel emits about 200 kilograms (kg) of carbon monoxide, 20 kg of nitrous oxides, 1 kg of ash and solid particles, and 200- 400 g of lead components. In urban conditions, emissions from road transport potentially rise because of frequent changes in operation mode and traffic jams. Illegal burning of leafage, street litter, and household wastes contributes to the pollution of urban atmospheric air. It is dangerous as leaves absorb harmful elements and heavy metals, such as lead, while household wastes contain rubber, plastic, and other organic substances that emit 40 harmful and toxic components when burning. The emission of harmful substances into the atmosphere potentially affects many natural and societal objects not depending on the pollution source and distance. As a result of air pollution, cultural values, vulnerable ecosystems, agricultural lands, and population might be damaged. 150. Climate. Tajikistan has three major climate zones: continental, subtropical, and semiarid, with some desert areas. The climate changes drastically according to elevation, however. The location of the country in the middle of Eurasia, its remoteness from oceans and seas, and proximity to deserts predefine its climate, which can be characterized as continental, with considerable seasonal and daily fluctuations in temperature and humidity. The climate in the central and southwest regions of Tajikistan is characterized by rather hot summers and mild winters. The cold period lasts for 90-120 days, and the warm period, 235-275 days. Of the annual precipitation, 75-85% occurs from December to May. The country‘s very complicated relief structure, with huge variations in elevation, creates unique local climates with great temperature differences, as shown in Figures 35-37. The country's capital, Dushanbe, and Khatlon provinces, are classified as having a continental climate, where it is hot and dry from June to September in the plains with a maximum temperature exceeding 35˚C. On the other hand, snow is observed from December to February with minimum temperatures below 0˚C. 151. Wind. Tajikistan is characterized as having few strong winds from large-scale lows, such as typhoons, although there are relatively many seasonal winds with dust. The wind speed is similar to that in South Asia at about 40 m/sec (mps). The wind direction and average wind speed in the subproject areas are shown in Table 6. Table 5: Wind Direction of the Cardinal Points and Average Wind Speed (m/sec) Location / Wind N NE E SE S SW W NW Direction Dushanbe 1.9 1.5 1.9 1.8 1.6 1.6 1.9 1.7 Khujand 2.2 4.6 4.5 2.2 3.1 5.7 3.9 2.1 Bokhtar 1.6 1.4 1.6 2.2 2.0 1.6 1.5 1.6 Source: Construction Climatology (MKC 23-01-2007, Table 10). Figure 4: Climatological Map of Tajikistan Figure 5: Average Annual Temperature Map of Tajikistan Figure 6: Mean Annual Precipitation in Tajikistan 152. Hydrology. The rivers of Tajikistan are important sources of fresh water for the Aral Sea. The glaciers and permanent snow feed the rivers of the Aral Sea basin with over 13 cu km of water a year. The major rivers are: (i) Syr Darya with a total length of 2,400 km, which flows for 195 km across the Fergana Valley in the north; (ii) Zaravshan, which runs through central Tajikistan; and (iii) Kafirnigan, Vakhsh, and Panj rivers, all of which together drain more than 75% of Tajikistan’s territory. Groundwater reserves are extensive in the Gissar valley. Aquifers are located at depths of 5-40 m, generally. 3.2. Ecological Resources 153. While Tajikistan is home to a wide diversity of animals, birds, vegetation, and habitats, biodiversity in the subproject areas is low as the subprojects are located in urbanized areas. No important, rare, endangered, or protected species or critical habitats are found in the project affected areas. Urban vegetation includes ornamental trees and shrubs (e.g., sycamore, elm, plain trees, ligustigum, maple, poplar, pine, microbiota spp., cedar, Chinese rose, Russian silverberry, etc.) and orchard/garden fruit-bearing species (e.g., mulberry, apple, fig, apricot, cherry, walnut, pomegranate, grape, Pontic hawthorn, Albert’s pearl bush, and dog rose). No protected or biodiversity-rich areas exist within the vicinity of the subproject areas. 154. Floral communities. The Hissar Valley is characterized by rich vegetative cover. The vegetation of the Vakhsh Valley can be attributed to the desert and steppe (300-800 masl) belt and the low-mountain (800-1,300 masl) belt, as well as the river valley belt. The Vakhsh River with its tributaries from three floodplain terraces. The surrounding hills and mountains are of relatively low elevation, ranging from 1,000-1,500 masl, on average. The highest peak is Mundy-Tau at 2,227 masl. The natural vegetation consists mainly of short meadow grass and sedges as well as other herbaceous vegetation. Some are planted to almonds and pistachios. Natural vegetation has been severely destroyed or altered by the influence of anthropogenic factors. Vakhsh Valley is the most important region of Tajikistan for agricultural cultivation, with cotton as the predominant crop. 155. Fauna. The fauna of Tajikistan is characterized by a great genetic diversity. Mountain fauna are richer than in the plains and contain a substantial number of European-Siberian and East Asian elements. The fauna of the hot, lowland deserts comprise plenty of Indo-Himalayan, Ethiopian, and Mediterranean species. Figure 7 shows the distribution of rare mammals in Tajikistan. Figure 7: River Basins in Tajikistan Figure 8: River Network in Tajikistan Figure 9: Vegetation of Tajikistan Figure 10: Distribution Map of Rare Mammals in Tajikistan 3.3. Social and Economic Characteristics 3.3.1 Population 156. The Republic of Tajikistan is one of the countries with a rapidly growing population; in 2021, it reached 9.5 million people (49% of them are women, 40.6% are children under 18 and 66% are young people under 30).8 The average permanent population in Tajikistan has increased from 6.1 million., people (2000) to 9.5 million people (2021), or 49 percent. About 74 percent of the population lives in rural areas. The population of Tajikistan is very young; for the past 70 years the number of populations increased in 6 times. Annual population growth rate in the country varies within 2.1 – 2.5%. According to latest estimates, average age of the population is 25, and median age is 22.4. Table 6: Population of Tajik regions based on census and latest official estimates Name Capital Area A Population Population Population Population Population (km²) Census Census Census Census approx. 1979-01-12 1989-01-12 2000-01- 2010-09- 2021-01- 20 21 01 Tajikistan Dushanbe 141,400 3,801,357 5,109,000 6,127,493 7,564,502 9,506,625 Dushanbe Dushanbe 100 500,966 605,135 561,895 724,844 880,800 GBAO Khorog 62,900 126,783 160,860 206,004 205,949 231,400 Sughd Khujand 25,200 1,194,683 1,558,158 1,871,979 2,233,550 2,753,100 Khatlon Bokhtar 24,700 1,220,949 1,701,380 2,150,136 2,677,251 3,425,500 3.3.2 Economy 157. Agriculture is the main economic activity in regions where the majority of the population lives in rural areas. The main crops and agricultural products are cotton, cereals, oilseeds, potatoes, carrots, onions, cucumbers, cabbage, melon, vine, milk, wool, honey and eggs. Vegetable gardens and small farms are also considered an important part of the local economy. These include apples, peaches, apricots, almonds, pears, pomegranates, mulberries, and walnuts grown in homesteads in addition to crops. Cotton makes an important contribution to both the agricultural sector and the national economy. Cotton accounts for 60 percent of agricultural output, supports 75 percent of the rural population, and uses 45 percent of irrigated arable land. Cotton is a cash crop that is widely grown in the project's target areas, but it involves high levels of irrigation and chemicals, while many local farmers make small profits from its sale (compared to intermediaries and dealers). With the declared freedom to cultivate agricultural land has declined dramatically, giving way to other crops preferred by farmers. The irrigation infrastructure inherited at the end of the Soviet era suffered from a lack of investment in routine maintenance, which led to the gradual loss of cultivated land and damage to embankments, water intakes, and canals. 158. About 45 percent of the country's irrigated land is located in the Khatlon region. Cotton is the main crop grown in the area and accounts for 60 percent of the country's cotton crop. Its industry is represented by 334 enterprises specializing in chemical production, production and processing of agricultural and food products, as well as steel production. The Sughd region has 38% of the irrigated land in the country, together with the Khatlon region, they make up 83% of all irrigated land in Tajikistan. Its industry is represented by 459 enterprises. Sughd region has important industries such as uranium deposits, reservoirs, textile enterprises, gold mining and coal mining plants. The province's production rate is 31.5% of the country's total industrial output. About 44% of rice yield accounts for Zeravshan and the Ferghana valleys in Sughd oblast. In the North of the country, apricots, pears, plums, apples, cherries, pomegranates, figs and nuts are produced. Crops grown mainly include grain, wheat, barley, maize, rice, beans, potatoes, vegetables, fruits, grapes, forage, etc. The soils are mainly gray-brown serozems (gray soils), brown- 8 TajStat, as of 01.01.2021 54 carbonate and ermine. The regions of Republican subordination are engaged in the production of construction materials and agricultural products, mainly vegetables and fruits. 159. The ten major crops by planting area account for 86% of the total planting area and include wheat, cotton, barley, apples, potatoes, grapes, watermelons (includes melons), onions, maize, and tomatoes, all of which, with the exception of some apples and grapes, are generally propagated from seed. Overall wheat and cotton account for 53% of the total area cultivated9. 3.3.3 Migration and Employment by Gender 160. Most Tajik people are forced to combine subsistence agriculture, labor migration and shuttle trade in order to earn a living. People try to find different ways of earning income by working in villages or elsewhere as a driver, a day laborer, shopkeeper, tailor, obstetrician, shepherd, etc. The labor market at the local and district level is very limited, and the pay for temporary work is very low. Therefore, the most significant way to generate income is labor migration- mainly to Russia. The increase in migration since independence has created both challenges and opportunities for women. According to the interviews, the wives of migrant workers assume the role of head of household after the departure of their husbands and make most of the decisions. From numerous individual examples, it can be said that migration also led to an increase in the number of female headed households (abandoned or divorced women) in Tajikistan. The right to make individual decisions in households, for example, concerning agricultural production, remains with men, and it is granted based on age, merit and experience. Women do most of the domestic and agricultural work in rural areas, in particular in areas where there is a migratory outflow among men. The proportion of officially registered labor migrants averages 5% in the Khatlon region and over 10% in the target regions of GBAO. 161. A different level of migration is observed in the villages, where it makes up about 10% of the working population of villages. Mostly local residents migrate to the Russian Federation. Most migrants (over 90%) are men who go abroad for seasonal work. There are also people who leave for several years, or, as they are often called, long-term migrants. Despite the fact that only 10-15% of the total population of villages migrate, they send relatively high incomes to their households. The level of labor migration and its growth is associated with unemployment, which reaches 60% of the total working population of the community. 162. Significant unemployment has led to large-scale migration, especially among men who leave women to manage their households, which makes them responsible for supporting their families, as well as for other household duties and caring for children. By the age of 25 years, 70% of women become inactive, which means that they do unpaid work at home, compared with 20% of men who also become inactive by this age. Over 43% of Tajik women do unpaid housework, work in the garden or care for other family members compared to 9% of men. The proportion of households managed by women is growing, often due to labor migration. A third of men aged 20 to 39 years emigrate for most of the year or more, and about 41% of men divorce their Tajik wives after leaving the country. According to the results of the divorce proceedings, about 80% of Tajik women are denied property rights and alimony. Women are forced to cope with the situation by performing, in addition to their traditional roles of caring for children and senior family members, traditionally male responsibilities, such as maintaining and maintaining the household, caring for fields and animals. These additional responsibilities limit their participation in education and income-generating activities outside the home. In addition, women's paid employment is hampered by a significant decline in the number of preschool educational institutions, especially in rural areas, which is the result of the collapse of the socialist system and the civil war in the country10. 163. The country has a Gender Inequality Index (GII) value of 0.314, ranking it 70 out of 162 countries in the 2019 index. In Tajikistan, 20.0 percent of parliamentary seats are held by women, and 93.3 percent of adult women have reached at least a secondary level of education compared to 95.7 percent of their male 9 Muminjanov, H. 2008. State of Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (PGRFA) in the Republic of Tajikistan. 10Asian Development Bank, Gender Assessment (2016); International Labor Organization, Maternity Protection and the Childcare Systems in Central Asia: National Studies in Kazakhstan and Tajikistan (Moscow: ILO, 2014). 55 counterparts. For every 100,000 live births, 17.0 women die from pregnancy related causes; and the adolescent birth rate is 57.1 births per 1,000 women of ages 15-19. 164. There is high prevalence of gender-based violence. Gender inequality is another major challenge in the country11 that impacts health outcomes. Married women report that they do not participate in decisions about their own health12 and according to the latest Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) in 2017 almost a third (31 percent) of married women experienced domestic violence.13 As the coverage of gender-based violence (GBV) services is patchy, this shocking number stresses the importance of expanding access to GBV services through the national healthcare system. 3.3.4 Poverty and Vulnerability 165. Despite various efforts to promote growth and development in Tajikistan, the country is still hampered by high levels of poverty and limited economic opportunities. In Tajikistan, 26.2% of the population lives below the national poverty line in 202114. There are significant variations in the poverty rates among the regions with poverty being predominantly the rural phenomena. The average poverty rate for urban areas is 21.5%, while the same indicator for rural areas was 30.2% in 2018. By regions, the lowest poverty rate is in Sughd, which is 17.5%, and the highest is 33.2% in the Districts in Republican Subordination, while in GBAO the poverty rate was 27.7%.15 166. Poverty rates fluctuate considerably during any given year resulting from the availability of the employment and remittance income. Job creation was slow and unable to keep pace with a fast-growing population. 167. The issue of the working poor continues to be one of the dominant features of poverty in Tajikistan. Half of the employed in the domestic labor market are poor. Almost 80 percent of the working poor live in rural areas. Low labor incomes and high prevalence of temporary work arrangements, informality (no labor contract), and unpaid work are the main reasons there are so many working poor. 168. Migration, mostly in the form of temporary work abroad, has become one of the key strategies for households to cope with poverty. The analysis indicates that a quarter of households have at least one migrant abroad. In households that have migrants, remittances account for as much as 35 percent of household consumption—and even more for the households in the lower deciles of the consumption distribution. The Tajikistan migration model is one of predominantly seasonal low-skill migration, with 96 percent of the migrants heading to Russia, and of those, 55 percent worked in the construction sector, and another 30 percent in other low-skill jobs.16 169. Against a background of high poverty and low employment, Tajikistan runs a rudimentary social protection (SP) system dominated by old-age and disability pensions. The largest program in terms of coverage is the old-age pension, which is received by one-third of households. Total social assistance spending is very low—at 0.5 percent of GDP it is the lowest in the ECA Region—and programs are small in size and benefit coverage. Less than 1 percent of households receive any of the smaller social assistance benefits, such as the gas and electricity compensation. To improve the SP system and its impact on poverty, the Government of Tajikistan introduced a targeted social assistance to achieve a higher coverage of the poor and vulnerable, though they are considered very small payments. 11 The country has a Gender Inequality Index (GII) value of 0.314, ranking it 70 out of 162 countries in the 2019 index. 12 World Bank (2021) Gender and GBV in Central Asia, Literature Review. 13 According to the 2017 Demographic and Health Survey, the rate of violence varies by region, from 16% in the capital city, Dushanbe, to 43% in the rural region of Khatlon. 14 www.worldbank.org/en/news/infographic/2021/10/15/poverty-in-tajikistan-2021 15 https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/infographic/2019/10/17/poverty-in-tajikistan-2019 16 Jobs and Skills Assessment, 2018 56 IV. PROJECT ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL IMPACTS 170. The Project will generate positive social and economic benefits through the creation and maintenance of the necessary infrastructure. However, certain types of activities to be financed under the project may result in various adverse environmental impacts, mainly during the construction phase of the planned sub-projects. The impacts will be related to waste generation, noise, dust and air pollution, impacts from possible use of chemicals in construction, health and safety risks, etc. They are all expected to be typical of small scale construction/rehabilitation works, temporary in nature and site specific, and can be easily mitigated by applying best construction practices and appropriate mitigation measures. 171. Both the environmental and social (E&S) risks for the Project are rated Moderate. The following Environmental and Social Standards (ESS) are relevant to the Project: ESS 1 – Assessment and Management of Environmental and Social Risks and Impacts; ESS 2 – Labor and Working Conditions; ESS 3 – Resource Efficiency and Pollution and Management; ESS 4 – Community Health and Safety; ESS 5 - Land Acquisition, Restrictions on Land Use, and Involuntary Resettlement; and ESS 10 – Stakeholders Engagement and Information Disclosure. 172. The project will apply the relevant requirements of the World Bank Group's Environmental, Health and Safety Guidelines (EHSG). Construction contracts will include social and environmental mitigation measures based on the WBG EHSGs. Environmental and social instruments have also been developed for the project under the WB ESF and are referred to in the Environmental and Social Commitment Plan (ESCP): Resettlement Policy Framework (RPF), Labor Management Procedures (LMP) and Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP). 173. A summary of potential environmental and social risks and impacts during the implementation of the project that, along with the recommended mitigation measures, is presented in Error! Reference source not found. 8 below. The proposed measures can be used to develop site specific ESMP for selected subprojects. 4.1. Potential environmental impacts and risks 174. Pre-construction impacts the potential impact on environment due to design work will be related to topographic, geotechnical, geological and prospecting studies. It is assumed that the consequences for environment will be negligible due to small-scale field works. However, the researcher should exercise extreme caution when conducting surveys in villages or near cemeteries and hold brief discussions with communities before starting any work. 175. Waste generation will occur during the construction phase and during civil works (construction/repair) and dismantling of the premises and individual building elements. Waste Generation - The implementation of the Project is expected to generate two types of waste: non-hazardous and hazardous. Non-hazardous waste will be represented by construction waste generated during construction/repair works. Storage of such wastes in areas close to populated areas and untimely or improper disposal can affect air quality, dust generation and affect neighboring communities. In addition to these wastes, used welding rods, packaging materials and wood are also generated. In general, most of the waste generated at this stage will be recycled waste and its timely and proper disposal will ensure minimal environmental impact. Construction waste and other waste (paper, glass, plastic, etc.) should be sorted into separate containers. Waste disposal sites at the construction site should be carefully selected, and waste classification and recycling rules should be prepared in environmental management plans. 176. Waste Management Plan will be prepared to adequately handle all types of waste generated during Project implementation. 177. Air pollution and dust is mainly expected to be caused by dust and construction equipment emissions. Dust generation will occur during the majority of construction/rehabilitation activities related to excavation, traffic, renovation of buildings, etc. In particular, the risk of dust pollution will increase in 57 windy weather. The magnitude of the impact will increase when construction/rehabilitation works are carried out in the vicinity of a populated area. Given the nature of most of the works, this impact is expected to be short-term, low-risk and can be mitigated by implementing the measures recommended in Table 8. However, additional measures (most often watering, installation of a dust screen) may be required for subprojects involving the dismantling of existing buildings. Particular care should be taken when coming into contact with toxic asbestos dust, which may occur when removing thermal insulation or roofs containing asbestos gaskets. Personnel should wear protective masks. Adverse impacts can be prevented by applying best construction practices and appropriate mitigation measures. In case of significant risk of ACM (Asbestos Containing Material) exposure during reconstruction or upgradation of existing infrastructure facilities, an Asbestos Management plan shall be prepared as part of the C-ESMP as highlighted in the Annex-6 and Annex-7 of this ESMF. 178. Noise and vibration pollution can occur mainly during the operation of the equipment and the movement of trucks. Noise levels are not expected to exceed the established limits during project activities. Noise pollution can be mitigated by using recommended measures. Given the specific nature of the project, vibration is not expected to affect human health and structural integrity as there will be no significant vibration generation activities. Sanitary Norms CH 2.2.4/2.1.8.562-96 are used in Tajikistan to ensure acceptable noise levels for residential areas. These rules and regulations establish permissible noise parameters for residential and public buildings and residential development of inhabited areas created by external and internal sources and the noise level should not exceed 55 dB(A) during the day and 45 dB(A) at night. 179. Surface water pollution. Earthworks, oil storage, storage of hazardous materials will be sources of pollution of river water if the watercourse is nearby. Leakage of oil, hazardous materials, debris, and household waste can lead to chemical contamination. All fuel and chemical storage facilities (if any) should be located on a sealed basis inside the bund and protected by a fence. The storage area should be located away from any watercourse or wetland. The base and bund walls must be impermeable and have sufficient capacity to hold 110% of the tank volume. Do not dispose of lubricating oil and other potentially hazardous liquids in the ground or in water bodies. 180. In the event of an accidental spill, immediate cleaning will be carried out. All cleaning materials must be stored in a safe place on the site where hazardous waste can be disposed of. The surface water treatment plan should be carefully planned during the feasibility study to meet the discharge water quality standard. A sedimentation basin, neutralization tank, and standby tank should be prepared for inundation. 181. Soil contamination. Leakage of fuel, lubricants, debris and pit latrines can cause soil contamination. A possible source of soil contamination should not be located near a natural source. The surface runoff from the construction site should be removed. All surface tanks with fuel and lubricants will be equipped above the ground and the integrity of their walls will be monitored at all times. Rules for registration, treatment and storage of hazardous materials, a soil pollution prevention plan and a fire safety plan shall be prepared in environmental management plans. 182. Erosion and sedimentation Soil erosion and landslides are significant problems in Tajikistan. Erosion is a widespread natural phenomenon due to the relief and climate of the country accelerated by poor land management practices, such as the cultivation of land on steep slopes; excessive cuttings of forests, shrubs and bushes including wind shelters; overgrazing; and improper irrigation. 183. The project may have potential for soil erosion and increased sedimentation. During construction there are a number of potential sources of erosion and sedimentation and activities that may result in increased run-off and could lead the loss of soil. Those include: • Site clearance and work on exposed surface .This will include removal of old bridges structures, boulders and rocks and in some cases vegetation, soils and surplus cut material. Site clearance ot only exposes bare soils in the cleared area to erosion but also prompts the formation of new erosive channels and gullies that will have the capacity to cause damage (by erosion and possibly land movement) to lands outside of the cleared area. Excessive steepness of cut slopes and modification of water flows can result in landslides. Whereas side tipping of spoil material from 58 road cuttings can kill vegetation and add to erosion and slope stability problems. Erosion might result in pollution and sedimentation of the river. • River diversion It may be necessary in a number of cases for temporary stream diversions with modification of water flows to be put in place during the construction activities. Such temporary redirection of flows, or changes to drainage, can result in flooding of adjacent lands, and destruction of property, crops, and the natural environment if badly engineered. 184. The Contractor shall repair any damage occurring as a result of erosion an sedimentation that is related to the construction of the project. The Contractor shall minimize damage to existing vegetation, particularly in steep areas, or on vulnerable soils. 185. Storage and handling of fuel and chemicals The implementation of the project may require the use of various chemicals that can affect the quality of water and air and, consequently, affect the health of people in the event of leakage or improper handling. Hydrocarbons, petroleum products in a mixture of bitumen and other chemicals will be stored in safe and impermeable containers or tanks located away from surface waters. storage areas will require a concrete base or other forms of containment that will keep and immediately clean the surface in the event of spills. 186. Health and Safety of Workers and Community 187. For workers - Safety and health non-compliance may create a risk for construction workers. The Contractors will have to follow Occupation Safety and Health rules, which include among others strictly implementation established norms and procedure H&S which depends on type on conducting works, usage of PPE, training activities and monitoring. In addition, all workers need to be introduced to working procedure with hazardous materials (such as asbestos materials, etc.). Contractors have to provide workers with appropriate living conditions: safe water supply, washing conditions, rooms for rest and etc. 188. Given that the contractors will engage the workforce in construction, there is potential for the spread of infectious diseases such as COVID-19 during the construction phase. There is also a potential risk of community exposure to COVID-19 infection by the Project workers. 189. For community - Inadequate lighting and fencing of construction sites inside of settlement areas can be dangerous for pedestrians and vehicles especially during the night-time. Increasing of traffic due to trucks and vehicles movements to construction sites may cause inconvenience for local population as well. In addition, some construction/rehabilitation activities will cause temporary blockage of household access. Untimely and inefficient disposal of solid waste and improper sanitary conditions generated by the construction workers at construction sites may cause pollution of the surrounding environment and affect the health of local people. Moreover, a movement of heavy tracks may destroy or deteriorate conditions of roads inside settlements. 190. Loss of vegetation - all designed works will be carried out within existing facilities, no significant impact on flora is expected. 191. Chance finds - Throughout the territory of Tajikistan presence a chance of finding archeological heritage. It is expected that during construction of facilities which would involve significant excavations, movement of earth, or other changes in the physical environment, during which unexpectedly might be found physical cultural resources. To address this issue all such subprojects' ESMP, will have special clauses in all contracts for civil works on “chance finds procedure” which will set out how chance finds associated with the subproject will be managed. 4.2 Potential Social Impacts and Risks 192. Potential Social Impacts and Risks and mitigation measures. The social risk rating is moderate. In general, project areas are essentially different regions and are exposed to common risks of instability and conflict, which will affect the final results of the project. Thus, the project areas are characterized by: (i) geographical risks - inter-regional and inter-district risks; (ii) economic risks - high unemployment, especially among young people, and a significant dependence of household incomes on remittances, which 59 is subject to external economic conditions and fluctuations; (iii) social exclusion; and (iv) institutional risks - insufficient client potential in applying ESS; (v) Small scale involuntary resettlement related to reconstruction works within the project activities; (vi) Sexual exploitation or abuse at workplaces, or inequity in employment and terms and conditions, and challenges in organizing favorable a working environment; No significant risks related to labor influx and community safety are expected under the project, as most project workers (for the civil works) will be recruited locally. The SEA/SH risk is assessed as low mostly due to the status of national Gender-Based Violence (GBV) legislation, social norms in rural areas, where women population at workplaces are well respected. The following social risks are relevant to the project: 193. Access restrictions. The project components include civil works, some new and some repairs and rehabilitation. Rehabilitation of existing roads and bridges is likely to have temporary impacts such as limited access to facilities and services. Construction may result in minor restrictions on access to homes, land, or other private or public property. Construction and/or reconstruction may also cause some inconvenience to the population. The ESMP for individual buildings prepared as part of the project should include measures to mitigate potential adverse impacts and risks, as appropriate, and the construction of public buildings should be carried out at each construction site prior to the start of construction of civil works. 194. Land Acquisition. The construction of new regional crisis management centers will require land acquisition, which may lead to involuntary resettlement. While the project expects the government to provide land, due diligence is required to ensure that there is no resulting physical and/or economic displacement. As sites have not yet been identified, the MoF/PIU has prepared a Resettlement Framework (RF) to guide activities in this regard. The RF defines procedures for: (i) land acquisition (after all technical alternatives have been exhausted), (ii) management of residual impacts of land acquisition (i.e. identification, valuation and compensation of persons suffering economic loss or loss of private property), (iii) monitoring and verification that policies and procedures are followed, and (iv) grievance redress mechanisms. Where resettlement-related impacts are identified, site-specific Resettlement Action Plans (RAPs) would be prepared by the MoF/PIU in accordance with the RPF. Project activities that will cause physical and/or economic resettlement will not commence until site-specific RAPs or Abbreviated RAPs (ARAPs) acceptable to the Bank have been consulted and implemented. 195. Expectations of neighboring communities regarding benefit sharing. The project will cover districts where unemployment and poverty is high. Therefore high expectations of local neighboring communities and / villages located in the same area regarding benefit sharing can be a challenge. Such expectations can lead to some social discontent and the project will address this through the exchange of information and awareness- raising activities that will clearly inform stakeholders about the national roads rehabilitation to improve regional connectivity within the project areas, as well as the use of the project complaints mechanism (GRM) if residents express concerns after awareness-raising activities. In addition, development at the district level will include a wide range of stakeholder representatives to discuss community priorities, this will be a participatory consultation process that will allow community representatives to voice their concerns. 196. Insufficient capacity to apply ESSs at national and local levels (participatory planning, project management and supervision). Considering that the implementing agency and line ministries do not have sufficient potential for applying ESSs, and local authorities and local construction organizations do not have experience in implementing ESSs, training seminars will be held on environment and social procedures related to the project (reduction of environmental risks, environmental and social screening and environmental and social management plans). 197. Labor Risks The majority of contractors are expected to be local, as the project proposes some small/medium scale infrastructure for the construction or rehabilitation of facilities. It is expected that the majority of labor will be hired locally, with the exception of a few skilled workers. Labor camps will be small and no residential labor camps are anticipated at this stage. 198. The risk of child labor/forced labor is considered limited, as national legislation requires contractors to comply with minimum age requirements and mutually agreed written contracts. However, according to 60 the Tajik Labor Code, persons between the ages of 14 and 16 may be employed with reduced working hours, for work that is not considered heavy or dangerous, with parental consent, and outside school hours. Child labor is not allowed in construction. 199. The SEA/SH risk is assessed as low, mainly due to the status of national gender-based violence (GBV) legislation, gender norms and the rural location of most project activities. The SEP describes the project-specific Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM), which will receive, review and attempt to resolve any project-related concerns or feedback, and will be easily accessible to project-affected parties and local communities, among other stakeholders. The GRM will have a special window to address SEA/SH complaints, for example, to ensure the privacy and dignity of affected people. 200. The MoF/PIU has prepared Labor Management Procedures (LMP) that outline the type of project workers, working conditions and associated labor risks, as well as mitigation measures. Provisions will also be made to train and recruit as many workers as possible from the local communities where activities take place. 61 Table 7: Potential Environmental and Social Impacts and Mitigation Measures Expected Significance Project components Impact Environmental and Responsible No Impact Description before Mitigation Measures And activities Severity Social Risks and agency Mitigation Impacts COMPONENT 1: BUILDING ROAD RESILIENCE Project implementation /Pre- and Construction phases 1 Sub-component 1.1: Rehabilitation Impact from cutting/clearing of Low Trees and vegetation Moderate Cutting of trees will be undertaken as per of roads damaged by the 2021 trees and other vegetation at the site approved design and only upon approval. The Contractor floods cutting of trees will be avoided as much as possible and damage to vegetation minimized. Land acquisition and Moderate Land leasers and Low The PIU will screen subprojects for potential resettlement impacts commercial owners risks and mitigate them as per the Resettlement Action Plan to be developed, if needed. Impact on historical and Low Archaeological Low Contractor will ensure that the workforce is archaeological sites such as artefacts and cultural briefed that in the event of accidental finds of damage to relics and artefacts heritage sites relics, they should immediately cease any during the conduct of the works works in the area and promptly report the find to their supervisor in accordance with Chance Finds Procedure Temporary disruption of existing Low Residents and owners low Walking access will be maintained to the community roads, pathways, and of commercial/ affected properties and access routes. access businesses in the Particular attention will be given to ensuring surrounding areas safety along roads and paths used by locals. The contractor will be required to immediately rehabilitate the excavated areas and any damaged road and path sections. Air pollution from dust (PM10 Moderate Residents and owners Moderate • The contractor will be required to cover and less) and air emissions from of commercial/ materials with tarpaulin or other suitable earthworks and movement of businesses in the materials while in transit to avoid spillage vehicles posing nuisance and surrounding areas of materials. health risk to nearby • Earthen roads, particularly roads near communities. residences, commercial and agricultural business areas will be moistened during dry and dusty conditions. • Speed limits will be imposed on construction vehicles. Construction equipment and vehicles will be regularly maintained to control air emissions Expected Significance Project components Impact Environmental and Responsible No Impact Description before Mitigation Measures And activities Severity Social Risks and agency Mitigation Impacts during vehicle operation Noise and Vibration from Low Workers and residents Moderate • Construction activities, particularly operation of construction and owners of operation of noise generating equipment, equipment causing excessive commercial/ will be limited to daytime. Contractor noise, resulting in nuisance to businesses in the • Noise suppression devices will be installed the communities. surrounding areas in noise generating equipment. Drivers will be required to minimize blowing of horns and to comply with speed limits. Contamination of the soil and Moderate Workers and nearby Substantial • Ensure that safe storage of fuel, other nearby water courses may result residential areas, hazardous substances consistent with from the utilization of hazardous aquatic and terrestrial national and local regulations to prevent materials. Improper handling, ecosystems soil and water contamination. storage or utilization of • Fuel storage tanks to be on impervious hazardous materials poses a surface with bund to catch spills, bund shall significant health risk to the have holding capacity of 110% of tank workers and residents of nearby capacity. Fuel tanks etc shall not be located settlement areas; within 50 m of a water course. • Ensure all storage containers are in good condition with proper labeling; • Used oil and other residual toxic and hazardous materials shall be disposed of in an authorized facility off-site; Ensure availability of spill cleanup materials (e.g., absorbent pads, etc.) specifically designed for petroleum products and other hazardous substances where such materials are being stored; Spillage, if any, will be immediately cleared with utmost caution to leave no traces, Spillage waste will be disposed at approved disposal sites. Generation of construction waste Low Project site land Low • Contractor to develop and implement Waste such as excavated soil Management Plan Surplus excavated material/cut soil from construction will be used as backfill material for low-lying portions per site development plan Contractor will ensure that all Expected Significance Project components Impact Environmental and Responsible No Impact Description before Mitigation Measures And activities Severity Social Risks and agency Mitigation Impacts quarry/borrow areas follow site-specific borrow pit management plan requirements in a timely manner, are clean from construction debris/waste and rehabilitated Contractor when construction is finished. Generation of construction Low Land and any nearby Low • The Contractor will prepare and follow the wastes such as solid wastes, inert receiving body of WMP requirements construction wastes, during water (drainage • Appropriate segregation bins or areas for construction will result in the channels) Exceedance construction wastes will be provided. pollution of land and receiving of local capacity to • The storage of all hazardous materials water bodies. treat or dispose of including fuels will be secure and such waste controlled. • Recyclable construction wastes, such as wood, steel, and scaffoldings, will be reused or sold to junk shops. Solid waste will be collected and disposed in the approved disposal site in the city. Impacts on community health Low Local residents Moderate • Contractor to develop a Traffic and safety such as from Management Plan. accidents risks to surrounding • Signage and appropriate speed limits communities from vehicles • Requiring suppliers that delivery vehicles transiting territory adjacent to transporting construction materials are the residential buildings near the maintained in a safe operating condition, site. loads are to be secured and all loads with fugitive materials (e.g. excavated soil and sand) are to be covered with tarpaulins. All drivers and machinery operators act responsibly. Covid19 virus outbreak Substantial Construction workers, Substantial • Check the health certification of worker contractors, suppliers before joining the site and hold briefing at the beginning to discuss on Covid-19 virus. • Assign focal point to implement and monitor prevention measures (appoint medical staff) • Restrict entry to all visitors during the epidemic • If a worker or any other individua feels ill, Expected Significance Project components Impact Environmental and Responsible No Impact Description before Mitigation Measures And activities Severity Social Risks and agency Mitigation Impacts they must stay home. • Take the temperature of all personnel and ensure they wash their hands before entering the construction site. • At the construction site, all people must: o Avoid handshakes, hugs and nay other forms of close contact o Maintain a minimum distance of 2 meters at all times o Avoid touching face without washing hands The contractor must provide in sufficient quality liquid soap, alcohol-based gel, dry hand-wash agent, disposable towels and tissues; located stations for hand washing at various point of the site; closed containers or bags for disposable towels and tissues; masks, disposable gloves and protective glasses; remote or tape thermometers. Impact on community health and Moderate Local people Substantial Watchmen/security personnel will be hired to safety from access and intrusion secure the facilities on a 24-hour basis. This of unauthorized personnel. will minimize the safety risks to the Contractor community. Occupational health and safety Moderate Construction workers, Moderate • The contractor will be required to hazards from operating and contractors, suppliers implement the construction health and using heavy machinery, safety plan in accordance with the World refueling hazards, traffic Bank EHS accident hazards • Guidelines (http://www.ifc. org/ehs guidelines) as a minimum standard. Contractor will appoint an EHS officer to ensure implementation of the plan. Workers will be provided with a safe working environment including conduct of safety induction, safety equipment appropriate for the task in which they are employed, medical and first aid facilities provided together with a person qualified in first aid. Expected Significance Project components Impact Environmental and Responsible No Impact Description before Mitigation Measures And activities Severity Social Risks and agency Mitigation Impacts Labor risks, including Low / Project workers and Low • All contractors will be required to comply child/forced labor, labor influx, Moderate communities with LMP. SEA/SH • All civil works contracts will include PIU standard Codes of Conduct that include /Contractor measures to prevent SEA/SH. • The Contractors will sign written labor agreements with all contract workers, including Code of Conducts to be part of their labor contracts; Worker GRM and community GRM will have SEA/SH complaint uptakes. Restriction of access to Moderate Service beneficiaries Moderate • Raise public awareness on the upcoming surrounding private and public and surrounding civil works, their scope and duration facilities communities through construction sign boards and public meetings; • If necessary arrange for transfer of the medical rooms into other easy to access buildings; Arrange for heavy machinery traffic management Social exclusion risk Moderate Exclusion may happen Moderate Raise stakeholder awareness on (i) selection due to differentials in: criteria on the facilities to be covered by the (i) geography; (ii) project; (ii) preferential investments - where, scale of investments; how and what will be funded; (iii) technologies (iii) absorption developed should be more friendly to health capacity; and (iv) workers at large, and (iv) reaching out to rural administrative health workers and vulnerable households in expediency remote and poor areas across the country. The SEP will be instrumental to ensure effective engagement. Ineffective and unsystematic Low Limited coverage of Moderate Stakeholder Engagement Plan will be stakeholder engagement non-state actors by implemented and reported. information and education campaign 2 Sub-component 1.2: Protection and reinforcement of priority roads Same as sub-component 1.1 Expected Significance Project components Impact Environmental and Responsible No Impact Description before Mitigation Measures And activities Severity Social Risks and agency Mitigation Impacts COMPONENT 2: COMPONENT 2: STRENGTHENING DISASTER RISK MANAGEMENT CAPACITY Sub-component 2.1: Strengthening Same as sub-component 1.1 • regional crisis management centers and systems Sub-component 2.2: Modernizing No environmental impacts PIU disaster communication and information systems Sub-component 2.3: Capacity Same as sub-component 1.1 building for emergency response Sub-component 2.4: Strengthening No environmental impacts the basis for structural and seismic resilience Sub-component 2.5: Disaster risk No environmental impacts financing COMPONENT 3: PROJECT MANAGEMENT No environmental impact Implementation of project activities Labor risks, SEA/SH risks, Moderate Project workers Moderate • Ensure LMP implementation PIU at the national and local levels discrimination • Instruct and sign Code of Conduct with each project workers Establish and maintain worker GRM COMPONENT 4: CONTINGENT EMERGENCY RESPONSE COMPONENT (CERC) No environmental impact • Ineffective and unsystematic Low Limited coverage of Moderate • Stakeholder Engagement Plan will be PIU stakeholder engagement non-state actors by implemented and reported. information and education campaign V. INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS AND CAPACITY FOR ESMF IMPLEMENTATION 5.1. Project coordination 201. The project will have three IAs, namely the MoF, MoT and CoESCD. The MoF PIU will lead the overall supervision and coordination of project implementation, combined financial management (FM), and monitoring and combined reporting (component 3). The MoF PIU will also execute sub-components 2.1, 2.4 and 2.5 (RCMC construction, seismic risk assessment and disaster risk financing), and Component 4 (contingent emergency response), with technical inputs and supervision from relevant agencies such as the CoESCD, IGEES and relevant departments within the MoF. Sub-components 2.2-2.3 (strengthening disaster preparedness), will be implemented by the CoESCD PIG. Component 1 (road resilience) will be implemented by the MoT PIG. The CoESCD and MoT will be in charge of the procurement, FM, technical inputs and supervision, and environmental and social framework (ESF)-related aspects of their respective activities. Ministry of Finance 202. The MoF will serve as the primary GoRT counterpart and the overarching institution responsible for project implementation. The MoF is experienced in executing World Bank– financed projects, as well as coordinating various line ministries and technical agencies. This implementing arrangement—with the MoF as the overarching institution— was determined to be optimal, given the multisectoral nature of the project. 203. The PIU within the MoF will be responsible for tasks for all components and activities of the project. This will include the following: • Overall project management and coordination. • Combination of FM reports from the CoESCD and MoT. • Combination of audited financial statements under the project. • Administration of third-party audits, ensuring quality of project activities. • Semiannual project progress reports, combining all components and activities. • Monitoring of the Results Framework. • Hiring and management of consultants, as needed, for the overall project management and coordination. 204. The PIU will also be the entity primarily responsible for coordinating with the World Bank and other IAs. 205. As indicated, the MoF will be responsible for executing sub-components 2.1, 2.4 and 2.5. Specific tasks undertaken by the PIU for these components, in addition to those for all components and activities mentioned above, include the following, among others: • Procurement, including preparation of ToRs/bidding documents, evaluation reports, contract management, and so on. • Hiring and management of consultants, as needed • Management of environment and social safeguard aspects • FM • Reporting and monitoring of project progress 206. The relevant departments within the MoF will be responsible for providing technical inputs and supervision for the preparation of a financial protection strategy for mitigating fiscal shocks caused by natural disasters under Component 2, to be executed by the MoF PIU. 129 Committee of Emergency Situations and Civil Defense 207. The CoESCD PIG will be the agency responsible for implementing, coordinating, and managing all activities under Subcomponents 2.2 and 2.3, including relevant tasks for procurement, contract management, safeguards, and technical inputs and supervision. FM, reporting of project progress, and monitoring of activities under the subcomponent will be conducted by the CoESCD PIG and combined by the MoF PIU for the entire project. The CoESCD PIG may also hire management consultants, as needed, for the subcomponent. 208. The CoESCD will also be responsible for providing technical inputs and supervision for the procurement of necessary works to be executed by the MoF PIU for modernizing the RCMCs under Sub- Component 2.1. In addition, the CoESCD will be responsible for all necessary administrative procedures, including obtaining relevant permits and clearances, and for the full operationalization of the CMCs. Ministry of Transport 209. The MoT PIG will be the agency responsible for implementing, coordinating, and managing all activities under Component 1, including tasks relevant to procurement, contract management, safeguards, and technical inputs and supervision. FM, reporting of project progress, and monitoring of activities under the subcomponent will be conducted by the MoT PIG and combined by the MoF PIU for the entire project. The MoT PIG may also hire management consultants, as needed, for the subcomponent. Institute of Geology, Earthquake Engineering and Seismology 210. The IGEES will be responsible for providing technical inputs and supervision for the procurement of potential necessary goods. Procurement will be executed by the MoF PIU and the goods used for the seismic hazard assessment for improved disaster risk identification under Sub-Component 2.4. In addition, the IGEES will be responsible for the implementation of the seismic hazard assessment, using the potentially procured equipment. 211. The Ministry of Education and Science (MoES) and Committee on Architecture and Construction (CoAC) will also be involved in specific project activities. CoESCD would work with the MoES to potentially support school preparedness, and the IGEES will potentially work with the CoAC for improving building codes and national construction/engineering design capacities under Sub-Component 2.4. 5.2. Capacity Building and ESMF Implementation Budget 212. The implementation of the ESMF requires specific knowledge for all parties, including beneficiaries and operators that will be engaged in the different phases of the project implementation. Respectively, the project will support relevant training on knowledge and information on topics such as the ESMF implementation, ESMF/ESMP reporting, World Bank ESSs, etc. For this purpose, before the civil works will start, the Implementing Agency will hire a Consultant with knowledge on the environmental and social management requirements for Republic of Tajikistan, along with substantial knowledge on World Bank environmental and social standards and requirements which will provide ESF training. 213. The training will include the basic requirements of the WB and National safeguards rules and procedures, as well as case studies in this regard. The training activities will continue also during the project implementation when the consultant will provide on the job training regarding environmental and social monitoring and supervision. The proposing the Project’s capacity building on environmental and social aspects will cover three main directions: i) PIU’s and PIGs’ capacity on ESMF implementation during sub-projects selection process and sub-project construction stages – the hired Consultant will provide respective training for Mof PIU, PIG of MoT and PIG of CoESCD’s staff on WB ESS standards requirements, ESMF, 130 ESMP and RAP preparation and further assistance in monitoring of the RAP and ESMP. Other relevant staff members of PIU ang PIGs can participate at the training in order to widen familiarization of the ESMF. ii) Implementing Agencys’ capacity, - on overall environmental performance during the projects’ operation – the Consultant jointly with PIU’s Environmental and Social Saf eguard specialists will develop and conduct training program on general overview of WB safeguards ESS and national environmental and social requirements. The target of this training will be presentation of WB’s safeguards and national environmental require ments of the projects and further needed actions. iii) Beneficiaries’ Capacity on development of ESIA, ESMP. Since the program will be implemented during several years and more sub-projects will be proposed for inclusion in the program, the Consultant will provide training for local agencies involved in preparation of EA report and conduction national EA. The training will be dedicated to harmonization of process of WB’s EISA and national EA. The target will be to educate EA developers and specialist from local environmental agencies to prepare the documents which meet WB safeguards standards as well. 214. For the project sustainability it is important along with physical interventions, institutional improvements and financial enhancing, to increase people awareness on the project related topics, particularly waste management, road safety and safety during emergencies. It is proposed, that hired Consultant in collaboration with national NGOs and relevant agencies will develop awareness program which will cover three mentioned above topics and delivered to the target groups through seminars. 215. In order to ensure successful ESMF implementation, funding is also required to finance capacity building activities. Since it is difficult to prepare budget estimates for capacity building at this stage, this information will be included in the procurement plan. The tentative plan of capacity building and training plan is presented below. Table 8: Tentative plan for capacity building and training program Time and tentative Tentative no Name of training Target group duration of the Facilitation cost training Overview on WB ESSs on During first year of safeguards and their PIU, PIG of MoT and Project implementation during the 9,000 USD PIG of CoESCD, ES implementation PIU, 1 project cycle. National (3000 USD and SS, Local Duration – 3 day (a Consultant Environmental requirements each) authorities day for PIU and each for project preparation and PIG) implementation Before sub-projects PIU, PIG of MoT and selection and approval 9,000 USD Implementation of ESMF, PIG of CoESCD, ES PIU, 2 Duration - 3 days (a (3000 USD ESMP, RPF and ARAP/RAP and SS, Local Consultant day for PIU and each each) authorities PIG) PIU, PIG of MoT and Before project Development of Gender PIG of CoESCD, ES implementation on the PIU, 4 12,000 USD Action and CE Plans and SS, Local ground 3 days (a day Consultant authorities for PIU and each PIG) PIU, PIG of MoT and Before starting OH&S, GBV / SEA training PIG of CoESCD; respective works 1 PIU, 5 12,000 USD and awareness-raising Contractors, Local day in every sub- Consultant authorities project location Continuously during General Public, Main PIU, 6 Awareness program, the program 30,000 USD stakeholders Consultant implementation 131 Total 72,000 USD 5.2.1. ESMF implementation budget 216. Table 5 below summarizes the estimated costs and schedules for the items associated with the implementation of the ESMF. The preparation of Site-specific ESIA/ESMP will take place once details become available during the design phase and may however require the services of an external consultant. Table 9: Estimated costs for ESMF implementation and Schedules no Activity Timeframe Responcibility Tentative cost Preparation of Site-specific First year of project 1 PIU, Consultant 125,000 USD ESIA/ESMP implementation Monitoring & Supervision ESMP Throughout project PIU , PIG CoESCD, PIG 2 25,000 USD implementation (annual) implementation MoT, Consultant Recruit Environmental and Social Fulltime throughout PIU, PIG CoESCD, PIG 3 252,000 USD Safeguards Specialist(s) project implementation MoT Grievance redress mechanism Throughout project 4 functioning (Hotline, GBV/SEA PIU, Consultant 27,000 implementation reporting mechanism) Total 429,000 USD 5.3. Monitoring and reporting activities 5.3.1. General requirements for environmental and social monitoring and reporting 217. Environmental and social monitoring during the implementation of sub-projects shall contain information on key environmental and social aspects of sub-projects, their impact on the environment, social consequences of impacts and the effectiveness of measures taken to mitigate the consequences. This information allows the PIUs/IAs to monitor the performance of implementation of environmental measures, assess the effectiveness of mitigation measures, and allow timely implementation of corrective action(s) that need to be observed how often, where and by whom monitoring shall be carried out. 218. The MoF PIU will be responsible for monitoring and reporting of the performance indicators defined for this project, which will be reported to the World Bank periodically. The PIU will assign a dedicated staff to coordinate M&E with the MoT and CoESCD in keeping track of progress and the outcomes of project activities. The aim is to verify the main points of compliance with the ESMF, the progress of implementation, the scope of consultations and the participation of local communities. The standard checklist prepared during the evaluation studies will be used for the activities report. In the medium term of the project implementation and at the end of the project, an independent audit will be carried out in the field of environmental, social, health and safety. The audits are necessary to ensure that (i) the ESMF has been properly implemented and (ii) mitigation measures are identified and implemented accordingly. The audit will be able to identify any amendments to the approach to the ESMF to improve its effectiveness. 219. Monitoring for social risk management measure part will be done on the continuous basis by the MoF PIU Social Development Specialist to ensure, that there is no any unanticipated impact during construction works on land, productive assets, illegal users, people's livelihood, assess to the assets etc. Monitoring will also cover health and labor issues, as well as stakeholder engagement activities. If some issues are identified, the mitigated measures will be proposed in the progress reports or separate Corrective Action Plans (CAP) (details are presented in the below section on the Environment and Social reporting). 132 5.3.2. Environmental and Social Monitoring 220. To ensure implementation of the environmental measures specified in the ESMP, the monitoring shall be carried out as follows: • Visual monitoring - during the construction stage of the sub-projects Environmental and Social Specialists shall continually monitor the performance of ESMP. This will be achieved through monthly inspections of construction / reconstruction projects by specialists throughout the whole construction period. The Specialists have the right to suspend work or payments if the contractor breaches any obligation on ESMP implementation. For monitoring, it is recommended to use special check lists, that can be compiled based on ESMP with the attachment of photos from the monitoring site. • For functioning facilities, the ESF Specialists shall verify the timeliness of the contractors' reporting on discharges to water bodies, air emissions and solid waste, which the contractors shall submit on a periodic basis to the regional ecology and environment protection committees. • Instrumental monitoring of environmental quality, such as air and water quality. Taking into consideration the types of activities that will be implemented within the framework of this Project, instrumental monitoring may not be carried out. However, in the case of complaints of violations or inconveniences from the local population, instrumental measurements of air or water quality shall be carried out by the PIU through the hiring of a certified laboratory. In case of national standards exceeding, the contractor shall be obliged to take additional measures to reduce the detected exceedances to meet the standards. 221. Environmental and social issues included in the mitigation framework are monitored by designated specialists through the MoF PIU. Although the environmental and social impacts are expected to be not significant, the potential negative impacts on the environment are planned to be prevented or mitigated during the construction and operation phases. Monitoring is based on impact / mitigation / monitoring issues as defined in the ESMP and/or ESMP checklists of subprojects. Observation monitoring will be carried out through weekly audits of the environmental performance by contractors throughout the construction period. The MoF PIU has the right to suspend work or payments if the Contractor is in breach of any of its obligations to implement an ESMP. 222. Separately, the World Bank experts will also annually visit certain sites to monitor the compliance. As has been mentioned above, in the case of non-compliance, Regional Specialist / PIUs will investigate the nature and cause(s) of the non-compliance and, if necessary, decide what is necessary to ensure the compliance with the sub-project or financing shall be suspended. 5.3.3. Environmental and Social Performance Reporting 223. Environmental and social performance, including monitoring, shall be properly documented and reported. In accordance with national legislation for the facilities under construction each contractor shall keep a log with information on health, safety and environment training for workers and another log for the registration of accidents during construction works. In the case of instrumental monitoring, the original records of the results of the required instrumental environmental monitoring (air and water quality) shall also be stored in a separate file for records. 224. For sub-components related to construction / rehabilitation, it is recommended that contractors, with the assistance of the PIU, develop a format (checklist) for site inspection to optimize the environmental and social supervision process before commencement of the works. The format can be in the form of a checklist with a list of mitigation measures to be implemented at construction sites, the status of their implementation and some explanations on the status of implementation, as required. On monthly basis the contractor will present short reports on ESMP implementation. The list of measures that are checked by the E&S Specialists when visiting the site shall correspond to the measures specified in the ESMP for the controlled sub-project. Information on the results of the monitoring on the construction / rehabilitated 133 facilities shall be submitted to the Regional Specialist to the MoF PIU on a quarterly basis. Based on received from the Regional Specialist's reports on semiannually basis the MoF PIU will prepare a brief report on ESMF and ESMPs implementation to be included in the regular progress reports to be submitted to the WB. 225. Monitoring reports during the project implementation will provide information on key environmental and social aspects 17 of the project activities, especially regarding environmental impacts and the effectiveness of mitigation measures. Such information will allow the PIUs and the World Bank to evaluate the success of measures to mitigate the consequences within the framework of project supervision, and allow, if necessary, to take corrective actions. 226. The sub-projects ESMP monitoring section will provide: (a) details of monitoring measures, including parameters to be measured, methods used, sampling locations, frequency of measurements; and (b) monitoring and reporting procedures: to (i) ensure early identification of conditions requiring mitigation measures; and (ii) provide information on the progress and results of mitigation. 227. The MoF PIU will provide brief information on the implementation of the ESMF and the environmental and social activities of the sub-project as part of the progress reports to be submitted to the WB every six months. 228. If social monitoring identified any impacts, it should be mitigated immediately. If there is an impact on land, productive assets, illegal users, people's livelihood, assess to the assets etc. the construction works should be stopped and the MoF PIU needs to be informed immediately. A Corrective Action Plan (CAP) needs to be developed. The CAP should contain information on the sub-component of the project, status of the civil works, impact types and social impact assessment, proposed mitigation measures. CAP should be prepared by the sub-component implementer and approved by the MoF PIU. All unanticipated impacts under the subproject, which have been occurred out of the RoW, should be compensated/mitigated by the Contractor. This needs to be reflected in the bidding documents. All impacts in the RoW should be compensated by the Subproject Implementer. 229. MoF PIU Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist is responsible for overall compilation of progress and results. It is suggested that semi-annual reports and quarterly unaudited IFRs will be submitted to WB. These reports should include the scorecards of communities on project implementation and success along with financial records, project implementation records, social audit meetings, and feedback and grievances received. Results measurements are outcomes defined in the results framework and set of output indicators defined in POM. The MoF PIU will be responsible for producing a completion report. All environmental and social issues are monitored and supervised by MoF PIU. Despite of insignificant social impacts, the potential negative impacts must be prevented or mitigated during construction and operation stages. 230. Environmental and social monitoring system starts from the preparation phase of the sub- component of project through the operation phase in order to prevent negative impacts of the project and observe the effectiveness of mitigation measures. This system helps the WB and the IAs to evaluate the success of mitigation as part of project supervision and allows taking an action when needed. The monitoring system provides technical assistance and supervision when needed, early detection of conditions related to mitigation measures, follows up on mitigation results, and provides information of the project progress. Monitoring Plan identifies monitoring objectives and specifies the type of monitoring, and their link to impacts and mitigation measures. Specifically, the monitoring section of the ESMP provides: (a) a specific description, and technical details, of monitoring measures, including the parameters to be measured, methods to be used, sampling locations, frequency of measurements; and, (b) monitoring 17 Including the impact on the labor force, gender issues, impact on socially vulnerable groups, stakeholder and community engagement, social conflicts, GRM, impact on land resources and others. 134 and reporting procedures to: (i) ensure early detection of conditions that necessitate particular mitigation measures, and (ii) furnish information on the progress and results of mitigation. 5.3.4. Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) issues reporting 231. OHS issues must be covered in all supervision and monitoring activities. That means specifically observing whether the enterprise adheres to good OHS practices, asking whether all employees have received OHS training, whether there have been any incidents, checking logs and the availability and use of protective and preventative equipment. Respectively, the ESF sections of all progress reports include statements indicating that the MoF PIU have checked occupational health and safety issues, and existing procedures in this regard, and asked if there have been any serious incidents or fatalities. Similarly, the MoF PIU will ensure that at the project launch workshop and in the operational manual contain adequate provisions for occupational health and safety. 232. Any incidents occurring on project sites and/or within project-supported activities should be reported immediately, e.g., by the contractor to the employer, CoESCD PIG or MoT PIG and subsequently to MoF PIU. All incidents should be reported to the World Bank no later than 48 hours from their occurrence. 233. Details on any incidents that have occurred, or lack thereof, will be provided in regular progress reports to IAs and the World Bank. The relevant text on OHS to be included in the progress reports might be as follows: The project has reported X Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) incidents since its start. Of these, X are classified as SEVERE, X as SERIOUS, and X as INDICATIVE. All incidents are confirmed accounted through the Environment and Social Incident Response Toolkit (ESIRT) (see below). During this mission period, the PIU checked with all contractors and consultants under all project activities, if any OHS incidents occurred, either reported or not yet reported. The PIU found (EITHER) (i) no new incidents occurred during this supervision period, or (ii) X incidents occurred (include classification, brief description of event and follow-up actions, and confirmation event was reported via SIRT)]. Monitoring activities during the report period found that OHS practices have been observed / partially observed / not observed. The following deficiencies were found: The following recommendations have been made to [XX Contractor / farm / business] 234. The World Bank Environment and Social Incident Response Toolkit helps to manage incidents consistently by providing clear guidance on how to classify the incident's severity, how to provide a proportional response according to severity, and clarifies roles and responsibilities. ESIRT also requires a root cause analysis to be done by the Borrower when there is a severe incident. 235. “Incident” is defined as an accident, incident, or negative event resulting from failure to comply with identified risk management measures OR conditions that occur because of unexpected or unforeseen environmental or social risks or impacts during project implementation. Examples of environmental or social incidents include: fatalities, serious accidents and injuries; social impacts from labor influx; sexual exploitation and abuse (SEA) or other forms of gender- based violence (GBV); major environmental contamination; child labor; loss of biodiversity or critical habitat; loss of physical cultural resources; and loss of access to community resources. In most cases an incident is an accident or a negative impact arising if the contractor does not comply with the WB security policy or unforeseen events which occurred during the Project implementation. 236. The WB ESIRT does not replace monitoring procedures and implementation of regular monitoring of the implementation of the project ESF provisions. The document includes the following six stages of the incident management and reporting process: 135 Stage 1. Initial informing about the incident. The contractor, executor, supervisor, is informing the sub-component PIU, local authorities, the WB, the public, providing urgent health care and providing the necessary safety measures for workers. All measures must be taken immediately. In parallel, all necessary data about the incident are collected - its scope, degree of danger to public health and environment, location, cause of occurrence, duration, what decisions are taken by the Executor, what actions should be taken next, etc. Stage 2. Assess severity of the incident . The Executor (should promptly provide information to the WB about the incident and its degree of danger. Stage 3. Notification. The Executor is preparing an incident notification for the WB. Submission of a notification in the event of an incident should be determined when signing a contract with the Contractor. Stage 4. Investigation of the incident . The Executor provides any information requested by the WB and does not prevent to visit the incidence scene. The Executor is also obliged with the assistance of the Contractor to analyze the causes of the incident and to document the information received. The Executor may need to involve external experts in investigation of the incident. The term of the investigation should not exceed 10 days after the incident. The findings of the investigation should be used by the Executor and the Contractor to develop corrective actions and draw up a corrective action plan (CAP) to avoid any future repetition of what happened. Besides, the conclusions should be submitted to the WB. Stage 5. Corrective Action Plan. The Executor develops a CAP with specific actions, responsibilities, implementation dates and monitoring program and discusses it with the WB. In case of serious incidents, the WB and the Executor agree on a set of measures to eliminate the major causes of sources for such incidents. The CAP indicates actions, duties and terms that should be performed by the Executor and the Contractor. The Executor is responsible for implementation of the CAP. The CAP may include development or modernization of technical measures to protect the environment and prevent further pollution, conduct training, including on issues of emergency health care, compensation for insurance claims of injury or death. If the WB considers that the CAP measures are not effective, and/or the Executor has shown unwillingness or inability to take corrective measures, the WB may consider a decision on complete or partial suspension of the loan payments until such actions are taken, or in some cases it may consider a question of cancellation of the whole or part of the Project after its suspension. Such decisions of the WB are transferred to the MoF PIU and the Ministry of finance authorities to determine the appropriate actions of the WB. Stage 6. Monitoring execution of the CAP . The Executor performs the CAP, monitors execution of individual CAP items and provides a report on implementation to the WB. 237. It will be mandatory for all project participants immediately report on the OHS (on severe and serious) incidents (by contractors - to employer, by project implementing entity - to the World Bank). It is required that World Bank is to be notified about each severe and serious incident within 24 hours. 238. For supervision of OHS issues during the project implementation which include civil works, the MoF PIU Environmental Specialist may use, as appropriate, the “Health, Safety and wellbeing inspection Checklists” see Annex 4. 5.4. Integration of ESMF into the project documentation 239. The ESMF requirements will be integrated in the Project Operational Manual while the ESMPs requirements, - into construction contracts for all sub-projects, both into specifications and bills of quantities, and the Contractors will be required to include the cost for ESMP implementation in their financial bids. Based on the ESMF there will be highlighted the roles and responsibilities of all involved parties in the ESA process. Lastly, based on the ESMF and ESMPs requirements, monitoring and evaluation of mitigation/avoidance measures identified in the site-specific review and in the ESMPs will constitute integral part of the subproject implementation, including them into the contracts binding the and 136 the contractors will need to carry out the environmental and social obligations during civil works. Furthermore, all contractors will be required to use environmentally acceptable technical standards and procedures during carrying out of works. Additionally, as specified in the ESMF, the contract clauses shall include requirements towards compliance with all national construction, health protection, ESF procedures, and rules on environmental and social protection. 240. The provisions of the ESMF will be used for the following: (i) Inclusion of the ESMF requirements into the Operational Manual of the project; (ii) The inclusion of environmental guidelines, ESMP into the construction contracts for individual sub-projects, both in the specification and in the bills of work, sub-borrowers shall include the cost of ESMF implementation in their financial proposals; (iii) The allocation of subsequent responsibility of ESMF within the framework of the PIU; (iv) Specifying mitigation and prevention measures during the implementation of selected sub- component of the projects; (v) Monitoring and evaluation of mitigation/prevention measures identified in the site- specific review and in the ESMP. The required mitigation measures will be an integral part of the sub-project, including contracts requiring contractors to meet environmental and social obligations during construction. 241. All contractors shall use environmentally acceptable technical standards and procedures during the work. In addition, the contract provisions shall specify the requirements for compliance with all national building codes, health, protective procedures and regulations, as well as environmental protection. 242. Contractors, for the construction the RCMCs and rehabilitation of road infrastructure shall prepare a Contractors ESMP based on the ESIA/ESMP prepared as part of the bid preparation. Distribution of the responsibilities of all parties involved in the Project is given in Table 10. Table 10: Roles and Responsibilities Responsible Party Responsibilities • Prepare and implement the ESMF and RPF and submit for Bank approval; • Disclose the ESMF and RPF on Project Management Office website; • Prepare ESMPs and RAPs according to ESMF and RPF; • Submit ESMPs and RAPs to the WB for prior review; • Disclose ESMPs and RAPs on the official website of Project Management Office and incorporate ESMPs and RAPs into bidding documents; • Prepare, adopt and implement Labor Management procedures; MoF/PIU (in close • Assign field specialists for the environmental and social monitoring; cooperation with CoESCD • Perform inspections of the implementation of ESMP by the construction PIG and MoT PIG) contractor, make recommendations and decide whether additional measures are needed or not; • Implement RAPs on site and provide regular reporting on implementation to WB; • In case of non-compliance, ensure that the contractor eliminates the noncompliance and inform the WB about the noncompliance; • Prepare, update and implement a Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP) that considers vulnerable groups in addition to paying attention to the gender aspect of the Project; • Hold public consultation meetings, and prepare and distribute leaflets or other informative documents to inform communities, recruit a 137 community liaison officer on project, and its impacts and construction schedule as well as rights and entitlements of PAPs; • Set up a multi-level GRM, monitor and address grievances related to the project under specified timelines and provide regular reports on the status of GRM implementation to the WB; • Provide guidance to the construction contractor and engineering supervision firm. • Summarize the environmental and social issues related to project implementation to WB in regular progress reports; • Coordinate and liaise with WB supervision missions regarding environmental and social safeguard aspects of project implementation; • Conduct regular monitoring activities for the implementation of site specific ESMPs and RAPs; and Prepare/design training and tools for local (branch level) staff and community representatives. • Review, approve and disclose ESMF, SEP and RAP on WB’s official website; World Bank • Review and approve labor management procedures; Conduct implementation support and supervision missions in order to ensure that the Project is following WB ESS requirements; In preparing Contractor’s ESIAs/ESMPs, the Contractor shall refer to the World Bank’s environmental and social instruments that apply to the contract. The environmental and social instruments prepared for the Project under the WB ESF and referred to in the Environmental and Social Commitment Plan (ESCP) include: Environment and Social Management Framework (ESMF), Resettlement Policy Framework (RPF), Labor Management Procedures (LMP), and Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP). The IAs should provide the bidders with all the listed final documents and these ESF instruments shall be incorporated into the contracts. The bidders will ensure compliance with the provisions of the environment and social instruments and the timelines and budgets specified in those instruments. As part of the ESMP, the Implementing Agencies will ensure provisions in the Bidding Documents that make the Contractor responsible to Contractors and prepare and submit labor influx management plan(s), occupational Impelemting Agencies health and safety management plan(s) and traffic management plan(s) before the commencement of any works. In addition to the World Bank Groups Environmental Health and Safety Guidelines (EHSGs), the Bank’s new operation guidelines on Gender-Based Violence (GBV), Sexual Exploitation and Abuse/Sexual Harassment (SEA/SH) and Children Abuse Exploitation (CAE) as well as labor influx, commitment to STD/HIV awareness and prevention as well as COVID-19 prevention measures during civil works and Grievance Redress Mechanism for workers and community shall be taken into account. An estimation of the budget for the implementation of the ESMP shall also be prepared and included in the Bill of Quantities as well as Bidding Documents. The ESMP obligates the contractor, upon mobilization, to prepare the Contractor’s Environmental and Social Management Plans (C-ESMPs) in accordance with the Government of Tajikistan 138 Republic, World Bank ESF, and in line with World Bank Group Environment, Health, and Safety Guidelines, which shall be prepared prior to the commencement of construction/rehabilitation activities. Depending on the activities to be implemented under the PREPARED Project components, the Contractor’s site specific ESMPs shall include appropriate management plans, including but not limited to: • Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Plan, • Water Management Plan, • Waste Management Plan, • Labor Influx Management Plan, • Workers camp management plan, • Traffic management and road safety management plans, • Quarry/borrow area management Plan, • Community Health and Safety Plan, • Code of Conduct for workers, and • Site Restoration Plan. i\Implement Contractor site specific ESMPs; • Implement labor management procedures; • Manage the grievance mechanism at the contractor, communicate grievances to Sub-component PIUs regularly through ESMP monitoring reports; • Monitor site activities on a regular basis (daily, weekly monthly etc.); • Prepare the ESMP progress reports for the review of MoF PIU; and Compensate or fix all damages occurred during construction (i.e., damages to crops, infrastructure) as set out by the ESMP or RAP/RPF. 139 VI. GRIEVANCE REDRESS MECHANISM 243. The main objective of a Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM) is to assist to resolve complaints and grievances in a timely, effective and efficient manner that satisfies all parties involved. Specifically, it provides a transparent and credible process for fair, effective and lasting outcomes. It also builds trust and cooperation as an integral component of broader community consultation that facilitates corrective actions. Specifically, the GRM: • Provides affected people with avenues for making a complaint or resolving any dispute that may arise during the course of the implementation of projects; • Ensures that appropriate and mutually acceptable redress actions are identified and implemented to the satisfaction of complainants; and • Avoids the need to resort to judicial proceedings. 6.1. Description of GRM 244. Having an effective GRM in place also serves the objectives of reducing conflicts and risks such as external interference, corruption, mismanagement; improving the quality of project activities and results; and serving as the important feedback and learning mechanism for project management regarding the strengths and weaknesses of project procedures and implementation processes. 245. The GRM is accessible to a broad range of project stakeholders who are likely to be affected directly or indirectly by the project. These include beneficiaries, community members, project implementers/contractors, civil society, media. Each of them can refer their grievances and feedback to the GRM. 246. The GRM can be used to submit complaints, feedback, queries, suggestions or compliments related to the overall management and implementation of the project activities, including: • Violation of project policies, guidelines, or procedures, including those related to procurement, labor procedures, child labor, health and safety of community/contract workers and gender violence; • Disputes relating to resource use restrictions that may arise between or among targeted districts and communities; • Grievances that may arise from members of communities who are dissatisfied with the project planning measures, or actual implementation of project investments; • Concerns and grievances related to the sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment as a result of the project activities; and • Concerns arising from unintended health consequences after vaccination especially those resulting in serious adverse effects. 247. The project specific GRM is based on the Laws of the Republic of Tajikistan “Appeals of Individuals and Legal Entities” (2016) and “On Civil Service”, as well as the Instructions of the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan “On the Procedures of Records Management on the Appeals of Citizens”. 248. The GRM’s functions are based on the principles of transparency, accessibility, inclusiveness, fairness, impartiality and responsiveness. 140 6.2. GRM Structure 249. The IAs (CoESCD PIG, MoT PIG & MoF PIU) will establish an effective GM with multiple channels to address complaints, including those which are confidential and sensitive. 250. MoF PIU, as a supervisory body, is responsible to consider all complaints from project affected people. The project stakeholders can also apply to the IAs directly, but their appeals will be redirected to MoF PIU for consideration. 251. There are GRM management specialists of the MoF PIU, as well as in the IAs structure. The MoF PIU is responsible to consider all relevant complaint, but complainants also can directly address the sub- project PIU. GRM Management Group will be established in MoF PIU the composition of which will be described in the project POM. The MoF PIU Social Development Specialist is in charge of registering and readdressing all complaints and applications. 252. The Grievance Redress Mechanism provides for clearly defined timelines for acknowledgment, update and final feedback to the complainant: • Acknowledgement of the complaint – not later than 3 days of the day of complaint received and registered; • Complaint handling – not more than 15 days of the day of complaint received and registered; • Provision of feedback to a complainant – not later than 30 days of the day of complaint received and registered. 253. To enhance accountability, these timelines are communicated widely to the project stakeholders. The timeframe for resolving the complaint shall not exceed 15 days from the time that it was originally received; if an issue is still pending by the end of 15 days the complainant will be provided with an update regarding the status of the grievance and the estimated time by which it will be resolved; and all grievances will be resolved within 30 days of receipt. Within the project, anonymous complaints will be also accepted according to the WB standards. Under the new project existing uptake mechanisms will be used for Sexual Exploitation and Abuse/Harassment (SEA/SH) related grievances. Public awareness on SEA/SH uptake mechanism will be also implemented at the community and contractor levels. GRM Contacts PIU MoF State Institution "PIU Access to Green Finance and Rural Development" F.Niyozi street Ministry of Finance , Dushanbe Tel: (992 37) 227 67 87 web site: www.piumof.tj/pages/108 PIG CoESCD 26 Lohuti street, Dushanbe Tel: (992 37) 223 10 09 email: info@ khf.tj web site: www.khf.tj PIG MoT 14 Ayni street., Dushanbe Tel:(992 37) 223 10 09 email: preparedproject@yahoo.com web site: www.mintrans.tj Appeal Mechanism. If the complaint is still not resolved to the satisfaction of the complainant, then she/he can submit her/ his complaint to the appropriate court of law. 254. In case of emergency, there are other windows in rural areas through which the rural and remote residents can have access to updated information and forward emergency notices. Mahalla (community) leaders, jamoat representatives at the village level. 141 GRIEVANCE RECEIVED The Affected Person/workers/complainant (or his/her representative) may submit his/her complaint in several ways e.g. verbal, by written letter, phone, SMS messages and email to the GRM or, alternatively, raise his/her voice in a public or individual meeting with project staff or public consultations. Submission of complaint to the local level GRC 3 days LOCAL LEVEL GRC (Processing time 12 days) • Conduct public consultations among the affected communities to use grievance service. • Register a grievance in the project logbook and grievance database. • Segregate/sort and process. • Acknowledge and follow up of grievance. • Verify investigate, and act • Provide written response to the complainants If resolution at local level is unsuccessful, the grievance raised to project level GRM. PROJECT LEVEL GRC (Processing time 15 days ) • Conduct coordinating meetings among complainants/public and appropriate administration levels. • Verify investigate, and act • Provide written response to the complainants Should the grievance redress system fail to satisfy the AP, they can further submit their case to the appropriate court of law COURT OF LAW Figure 11: Grievance Redress Mechanism 142 6.3. Grievance Logs 255. The persons in charge of complaints maintain local grievance logs to ensure that each complaint has an individual reference number and opportunity to track and recorded all actions. When receiving feedback, including grievances, the following is defined: • type of appeal; • category of appeal; • person responsible for the study and resolution of the grievance; • deadline of resolving the complaint; and • agreed action plan 256. The persons in charge of complaints ensure that each complaint has an individual reference number and is appropriately tracked, and recorded actions are completed. The logs contain the following information: • Name of the person affected by the project, his/her location and details of the complaint; • Date of reporting by the complaint; • Date when the Grievance Log was uploaded onto the project database; • Details of corrective action proposed, name of the approval authority; • Date when the proposed corrective action was sent to the complainant (if appropriate); • Details of the Grievance Committee meeting (if appropriate); • Date when the complaint was closed out; and • Date when the response was sent to the complainant. 257. GRM focal point at the MoF PIU is the Social Development Specialist to be reached by e-mail address that will be disclosed after PIU setting. 6.4. Monitoring and Reporting on Grievances 258. The MoF PIU M&E Specialist supported by SDS is responsible for: • Collecting and analyzing the qualitative data from persons in charge of complaints on the number, substance and status of complaints and uploading them into the single project database; • Monitoring outstanding issues and proposing measures to resolve them; • Preparing quarterly reports on GRM mechanisms to be shared with the WB. 259. Quarterly reports to be submitted to the WB include Section related to GRM which provides updated information on the following: • Status of GRM implementation (procedures, training, public awareness campaigns, budgeting etc.); • Qualitative data on number of received grievances (applications, suggestions, claims, requests, positive feedback), highlighting those grievances related to the number of unresolved grievances, if any; • Quantitative data on the type of grievances and responses, issues provided and grievances that remain unresolved; • Level of satisfaction by the measures (response) taken; • Correction measures taken. 143 6.5. World Bank Grievance Redress System 260. Communities and individuals who believe that they are adversely affected by a World Bank (WB) supported project may submit complaints to existing project-level grievance redress mechanisms or the WB’s Grievance Redress Service (GRS). The GRS ensures that complaints received are promptly reviewed in order to address project-related concerns. Project affected communities and individuals may submit their complaint to the WB’s independent Inspection Panel which determines whether harm occurred, or could occur, as a result of WB non-compliance with its policies and procedures. Complaints may be submitted at any time after concerns have been brought directly to the World Bank’s attention, and Bank Management has been given an opportunity to respond. 261. For information on how to submit complaints to the World Bank’s corporate Grievance Redress Service (GRS), please visit http://www.worldbank.org/en/projects-operations/products-and- services/grievance-redress-service. For information on how to submit complaints to the World Bank Inspection Panel, please visit www.inspectionpanel.org. A complaint may be submitted in English, Tajik or Russian, although additional processing time will be needed for complaints that are not in English. A complaint can be submitted to the Bank GRS through the following email: grievances@worldbank.org 262. Communities and individuals may also send their complaints directly to the Bank’s Country Office through the following channels. By phone: +992 48 701-5810 By mail: 48 Ayni Street, Business Center "Sozidanie", 3rd floor, Dushanbe, Tajikistan By email: tajikistan@worldbank.org 263. The complaint must clearly state the adverse impact(s) allegedly caused or likely to be caused by the Bank-supported project. This should be supported by available documentation and correspondence to the extent possible. The complainant may also indicate the desired outcome of the complaint. Finally, the complaint should identify the complainant(s) or assigned representative/s and provide contact details. Complaints submitted via the GRS are promptly reviewed to allow quick attention to project-related concerns. 144 VII. ESMF DISCLOSURE AND PUBLIC CONSULTATIONS (will be complemented) 264. ESMF and RPF preparation has been highly participatory. Some consultations have been held with various stakeholders including the public communities, local/ district/ regional authorities, other departments and service providers. The draft ESMF, SEP, LMP and RPF in English and Russian languages were posted on the PIU MoF website on 12 of April 2023 (http://piumof.tj/pages/106 and http://piumof.tj/pages/6). The public consultations were held in project districts on January-April 2023. Minutes of the public consultations held are enclosed in Annex 1 of this ESMF. 265. After the public consultations, the instruments have been updated and the final versions will be officially submitted to the World Bank for disclosure in English on the WB external webpage. The English and Russian versions will be also redisclosed on the website of the MoF. 266. The final version of this document will be used by respective government agencies and other Project stakeholders during the project implementation. 145 Annex 1. Minutes of the public consultations PROTOCOL #1. An introductory meeting with local government leaders, institutions, businesses, and activists about the project "Enhancing Disaster Preparedness and Resilience in the Republic of Tajikistan" City of Bokhtar January 19, 2023 In attendance: Deputy Mayor of Bokhtar and 17 invited guests, including 6 women (list of participants attached) Topic of the meeting: 1.Objectives of the "Tajikistan preparedness and resilience to disasters" project 2. Components of the project 3. Questions and Discussions Note: Handouts (brief information about the project) were prepared in two languages: (Tajik, Russian). The meeting was conducted mainly in Tajik, the state language. The opening remarks were made by Deputy Chairman of the Hukumat of Bokhtar City on construction, Mukhammadjonzoda D. He introduced the participants to the representatives of PIU MoF and consultants on social development and environmental issues. Deputy Chairman of the city briefly spoke about the purpose of the meeting and the word was given to the representatives of PIU MoF. Valiev M., a social issues consultant, gave a detailed presentation of the project's objectives, timeline, components and regions. Odilova R., Social Development Consultant, spoke about the social and environmental requirements for project implementation. She informed the participants that there are environmental and social risks in the implementation of the project. Although they are not significant, it is necessary to keep them to a minimum. She said that the following framework documents will be prepared for the project implementation: 1. Environmental and Social Management Framework ( ESMF ) 2. Resettlement Policy Framework (RPF) 3. Labor management Procedures (LMP) and briefly explained the need for these documents. R. Odilova said that for the successful implementation of the project a document called "Stakeholder Engagement Plan" (SEP) has been prepared and we need to finalize it taking into account your opinions and suggestions. Consultant of CRPF MF Niyatbekov S. spoke in detail about the Plan of interaction with stakeholders, i.e. primarily with local state and executive authorities. He said that successful implementation of the project depends on close cooperation between the relevant authorities and their assistance. Environmental consultant Dadaboev D. informed the audience about environmental and social requirements. He told about normative legal documents of Tajikistan and about Social and Environmental Standards of the World Bank. Participants were very interested and asked a lot of questions about the beginning of construction of the RCUS in Bokhtar. The project consultants answered all of the participants' questions. 146 V. Yatimzoda, Chief Architect of the City: Who will prepare the RCUKS project and when? Answer: Yes, you are correct. For the construction of the building of the center, the project will invite bids for feasibility studies and design. When the design of the building is accepted the project will invite bids for the construction of the building. Makhmudova S. (Lawyer of the Public Organization "Dilafruz"): You said that you are preparing framework documents on the protection of the social and ecological environment. What are these documents based on? Answer: Framework documents are prepared on the basis of normative legal documents of the Republic of Tajikistan and Social and Environmental Standards of the World Bank. As we noted SES of the World Bank were adopted in 2018 and all projects financed by the WB necessarily comply with these standards. All situations are taken into account in the project documents. First of all, we must take into account that during the implementation of the project the rights of all citizens, especially those who are affected by the project, will be respected. Tolibova U. (Head of the Employment Department): We are glad that such a modern center for critical situation management is being built in our city. Who will work for the facility during construction? Answer: We understand you. You're thinking about employment for the city's unemployed. Of course, the World Bank supports the interests of local residents in this. We will need specialists as builders, but in addition we will also take laborers. That's why we invited you, that you took into account this moment and prepare specialists - builders. You probably know that in other projects, which are implemented with the support of the WB, the workers are mostly local. Sheralizoda G. (Chair of the Women's Department): Can women work in a facility of this nature? Answer: Yes, of course. Although construction is considered hard work for women, their interest is also taken into account. Women can work for lighter jobs like accountants, cooks and cleaners. Holova K. (Public organization "Gaury"): You said that during the implementation of the project a mechanism for complaints and suggestions will be launched. How will this mechanism work? Answer: The mechanism of complaints and suggestions is one of the main requirements of the framework documents. This mechanism allows citizens to express their attitude to the implementation of the project. The project will install boxes for complaints and suggestions of citizens at each site and the project specialists together with the local government body (mahalla, jamoat) will receive them. Those complaints that are relevant to the project will be considered. The participants of the meeting expressed their approval and willingness to help with the project. 147 List of participants in the meeting in the city of Bokhtar Place of work № Surname and first name 1. Gafurova M. Deputy Director of the telephone exchange 2 Makhmadova S. Lawyer of the Dilafruz NGO 3 Tolibova U. Employment Office Specialist 4 Sharifzoda Sh. Head of the City Department of Public Education 5 Sheralizoda G. Head of the Women's Department 6 Holova K. Specialist of the Gamhor NGO 7 Sayurov A. Land Surveyor 8 Yatimzoda V. Chief Architect of the City 9 Rakhmonov F. Pension Fund 10 Sa'dulloev S. Specialist Social Protection 11 Sadirova M. Coordinator 12 Sattorova S. Mahalla Department 13 Musozoda M. Head of the City Department of CoES and Civil Defense 14 Samadov H. Head of Finance 15 Makhmadzoda J. Head of the Regional Department of CoES and Civil Defense 16 Rukhshonai Sh. Specialist of the Department of Work with Young People 17 Mukhammadjonzoda D Deputy Chairman of the City of Bokhtar 148 149 Photos of Bokhtar 150 PROTOCOL #2. An introductory meeting with local government leaders, institutions, businesses, and activists about the project "Improving Disaster Preparedness and Resilience in the Republic of Tajikistan" Rudaki District January 26, 2023 Present: Rudaki District Vice-Chairman and 18 invitees, of whom 5 were women (list of participants is attached) Topic of the meeting: 1.Objectives of the "Strengthening Disaster Preparedness and Resilience in the Republic of Tajikistan" project 2. Components of the project 3. Questions and Discussions Note: Handouts (brief information about the project) were prepared in two languages: (Tajik, Russian). The meeting was held in the state language, Tajik. Deputy Chairman of the Hukumat of the district Rudaki Azizzoda Habibullo made opening remarks. The deputy head of the Hukumat of the district, Rudaki Azizzoda Habibullo, made an opening speech. He introduced the participants to the representatives of CRP MF and consultants on social development and environmental issues. The deputy chairman of the district briefly spoke about the purpose of the meeting and gave the floor to the representatives of CRP MoF. Consultant on social issues Valiev M. informed the participants in detail about the objectives of the project, implementation timeframe, project components and regions of the project implementation. In particular, he said that under component 1 of the project 2 large bridges over rivers Kofarnihon and Elok will be restored in Rudak district. Odilova R., Social Development Consultant, told about social and environmental requirements for the project implementation. She informed the participants that in the implementation of the project there are environmental and social risks. Although they are not significant, but it is necessary to keep them to a minimum. She said that the following framework documents are being prepared for the project implementation: 1. Environmental and Social Management Framework ( ESMF ) 2. Resettlement Policy Framework (RPF) 3. Labor management Procedures (LMP) and briefly explained the need for these documents. R. Odilova said that for the successful implementation of the project a document called "Stakeholder Engagement Plan" (SEP) has been prepared and we need to finalize it taking into account your opinions and suggestions. Consultant of CRPF MF Niyatbekov S. spoke in detail about the Plan of interaction with stakeholders, i.e. first of all with local state and executive authorities. He said that successful implementation of the project depends on close cooperation between the relevant authorities and their assistance. Environmental consultant Dadaboev D. informed the audience about environmental and social requirements. He told about normative legal documents of Tajikistan and about Social and Environmental Standards of the World Bank. Participants were very interested and asked a lot of questions about the beginning of construction of bridges in the Rudaki area. Consultant M. Valiev informed the participants of the meeting about the document - Procedures for Regulating Labor Relations (PRTR). 151 The project consultants answered all of the participants' questions. Sharopov A., Chairman of Jamoat: The bridges to be restored are on the territory of our Jamoat and as we know, there will be resettlement. There is a store, a gas station and many other things in the immediate vicinity. I think when restoring the bridges we should take into account these points. Answer: We understand your concerns. PIU under the Ministry of Transport is engaged in the reconstruction of bridges, and while the tender for the design is not announced and when the designers start working the specialists of PIU, the district and Jamoat should be present and make sure that the impact of the project to a minimum. Well, if the resettlement will be inevitable, then we have a framework document on resettlement. We will act in accordance with the requirements of this document. A. Shobuddinova, editor-in-chief of the district newspaper: What are the framework documents based on and are they only recommendations? Answer: Framework documents are prepared on the basis of normative legal documents of the Republic of Tajikistan and Social and Environmental Standards of the World Bank. If you pay attention, SES of the World Bank were adopted in 2018 and all the projects financed by the WB necessarily comply with these standards. All situations are taken into account in the project documents. First of all, we must take into account that during the implementation of the project the rights of all citizens, especially those who are affected by the project, will be respected. S. Imomnazarov, entrepreneur: You said that during the implementation of the project, a mechanism for handling complaints and suggestions will be launched. What is its essence? Answer: The mechanism of consideration of complaints and suggestions is one of the main requirements of the framework documents. This mechanism allows citizens to express their attitude to the implementation of the project as a whole and on individual sites. Boxes for complaints and suggestions from citizens will be installed at each facility. Project specialists together with local government body (mahalla, jamoat) will receive them. Those complaints that are related only to the project will be considered. F. Khasanova, Head of the Department for Work with Women: Will women be involved in the work of rebuilding bridges? Answer: The project does not limit the gender. Of course women can work in the reconstruction of bridges, only for light jobs, such as cook, cleaner and others. The participants of the meeting expressed their willingness to help with the project. 152 List of participants in the Rudaki district meeting Place of work № Surname and first name 1. Musoeva K. Chairman of the society of labor veterans 2 Shobudinova R. Editor-in-Chief of a regional newspaper 3 Kalonov N. Fire Chief. 4 Khasanov B. Accountant 5 Sharipov O. Road engineer 6 Holova F. Chairman of the Jamoat 7 Khasanova F. Women's Department 8 Odinaev A. Head of the Road Department 9 Khojaev A. Director of the District Ambulance Station 10 Imomnazarov S. Entrepreneur 11 Gairatzoda M. Land Office 12 Jalolov GosStrakhovanie 13 Khalimov A. Population Protection Department 14 Hakimov I. Goskomstat 15 Bokizoda S. Public organization "Vali" 16 Barotzoda K. Head of the Employment Department 17 Khalilov Yu. Head of the Nature Protection Department 18 Sharipov A. Chairman of the Jamoat 19 Azizzoda Habibullo Deputy Chairman of the District 153 154 Photos of Rudaki 155 PROTOCOL № 3. An introductory meeting with local government leaders, institutions, businesses, and activists about the project "Improving Disaster Preparedness and Resilience in the Republic of Tajikistan" Vose District February 21, 2023 Present: Vice-chairman of the district and 16 invitees, including 3 women (list of participants is attached) Topic of the meeting: 1.Objectives of the "Strengthening Disaster Preparedness and Resilience in the Republic of Tajikistan" project 2. Components of the project 3. Questions and Discussions Note: Handouts (brief information about the project) were prepared in two languages: (Tajik, Russian). The meeting was held in the state language, Tajik. The deputy chairman of the Khukumat of Vose rayon made an opening speech. He said that we are glad that bridges and roads will be restored by the project. The deputy chairman introduced to the participants the representatives of MHP MoT and consultants on social development and environmental issues. D. Safarov, Consultant on Social Issues, informed the participants in detail about the project objectives, implementation timeframe, project components and project implementation regions. In particular, he said that according to component 1 of the project several large and small bridges over the Yahsu river and canals will be restored in the territory of Vose district Odilova R., Social Development Consultant, told about the social and environmental requirements in the implementation of the project. She informed the participants that in the implementation of the project there are risks of environmental and social nature. She said that the following framework documents are being prepared for the project implementation: 1. Environmental and Social Management Framework ( ESMF ) 2. Resettlement Policy Framework (RPF) 3. Labor management Procedures (LMP) and briefly explained the need for these documents. R. Odilova said that a document called "Stakeholder Engagement Plan" (SEP) was prepared for the successful implementation of the project and we need to finalize it taking into account your opinions and suggestions. Consultant of MOT GRP Nosirov R. informed the participants about the Plan of interaction with stakeholders, i.e. joint work with local state and executive authorities. He said that the successful implementation of the project depends on close cooperation between the relevant bodies and their assistance. Consultant on environmental issues Nosirov R. informed the audience about environmental and social requirements. He told about normative legal documents of Tajikistan and about Social and Environmental Standards of the World Bank. Participants were very interested in the project and asked a lot of questions about the beginning of construction of bridges in the Vose area. Consultant Odilova R. informed the participants of the meeting about the document - Procedures for Regulating Labor Relations (PRTR). 156 The project consultants answered questions from the participants. D. Yatimov, Head of the District Department of CoES and Civil Defense: We are glad that the Government of Tajikistan with the financial support of the World Bank is restoring infrastructure destroyed by natural disasters, especially bridges and roads. As participants of the meeting know last year another project restored and strengthened the coastal structures in our district. And now a new project will be implemented partially in our neighborhood. After restoration the bank protection structures have shown themselves well. They are stable and can withstand mudflows. I think that the new project will help us withstand the threats of natural disasters even more confidently. I have no questions. We have supported and continue to support World Bank projects. Isoev A., land surveyor: When the project is implemented will there be resettlement? Answer: GRP under the Ministry of Transport is engaged in the rehabilitation of bridges and roads, and until the design is not completed, it is impossible to say exactly about it. When designing should work together with the designers specialists GRP MoT, district and Jamoat. They must be present at the design and make the impact of the project to a minimum. Well, if the resettlement will be inevitable, then we have a framework document on resettlement. We will act in accordance with the requirements of this document. Mejrodjiddini Sharif, specialist of the Guliston Jamoat: Framework documents are prepared for what? Answer: Framework documents are prepared on the basis of normative legal documents of the Republic of Tajikistan and Social and Environmental Standards of the World Bank. If you pay attention, SES of the World Bank were adopted in 2018 and all the projects financed by the WB necessarily comply with these standards. All situations are taken into account in the project documents. First of all, we must take into account that during the implementation of the project the rights of all citizens, especially those who are affected by the project, will be respected. F. Nemmatzoda, Head of Women's Department: When rebuilding bridges, will women be employed? Answer: There is no gender restriction in the project. Of course women can work in the reconstruction of bridges, only for light jobs, such as cook, cleaner and others. S. Azimzoda, Head of the Statistics Department: As you said, when implementing the project, a mechanism for complaints and suggestions will be launched. How will this mechanism work? Answer: The mechanism of consideration of complaints and suggestions is one of the main requirements of the framework documents. This mechanism allows citizens to express their attitude to the implementation of the project as a whole and on individual sites. Boxes for complaints and suggestions from citizens will be installed at each facility. Project specialists together with local government body (mahalla, jamoat) will receive them. Those complaints that are related only to the project will be considered. The participants of the meeting expressed their willingness to help with the project. 157 List of participants in the meeting in the Vose area Place of work № Surname and first name 1. Davlatzoda V. Deputy Chairman of the District 2 Yatimov D Head of the District Department of CoES and Civil Defense 3 Isoev A. Specialist of the Committee on Land Management 4 Mehrodjiddin I. Chief Specialist of the Guliston Jamoat 5 Khisainov R. Neighborhood Architect. 6 Jamolova M. Specialist of Women's Department 7 Talbov Yu. Standards Agency 8 Ubaidov G. Director of state insurance 9 Madaliev K. Representative District Department of Education 10 Nemmatzoda F. Head of the Women's Department 11 Nuraliev F. Environmental protection 12 Abdukarimov H. Head of Finance 13 Safarov B. Head of the department of road maintenance 14 Mirakov G. Entrepreneur 15 Azimzoda S. Specialist of the State Statistics Committee 158 159 Photos of Vose 160 PROTOCOL № 4. An introductory meeting with local government leaders, institutions, businesses, and activists as part of the project "Improving Disaster Preparedness and Resilience in the Republic of Tajikistan" Khujand city on March 15, 2023 Present: the Deputy Chairman of Khujand and 17 invitees, including 4 women (a list of participants is attached) Topic of the meeting: 1.Objectives of the "Strengthening Disaster Preparedness and Resilience in the Republic of Tajikistan" project 2. Components of the project 3. Questions and Discussions Note: Handouts (brief information about the project) were prepared in two languages: (Tajik, Russian). The meeting was held mainly in the state language, Tajik. Deputy Chairman of Hukumat of Khujand city Bokizoda Bakhtiyor Makhmud made opening remarks. Bokizoda Bakhtiyor Makhmud, Khukumat of Khujand city on economy and industry issues, and introduced the representatives of CRP MF and consultants on social development and environmental issues to the participants of the meeting. The deputy chairman of the city briefly spoke about the purpose of the meeting and gave the word to the representatives of CRP MoF. R. Odilova, social development consultant, informed the audience in detail about the goals of the project, the timing of implementation, the components of the project and the territory of the project. Odilova R., Social Development Consultant, told about the social and environmental requirements in the implementation of the project. She informed the participants that in the implementation of the project there are environmental and social risks. Although they are not significant, but they should be minimal. Odilova R. informed the participants that the following framework documents are being prepared for the project implementation: 1. Environmental and Social Management Framework ( ESMF ) 2. Resettlement Policy Framework (RPF) 3. Labor management Procedures (LMP) and briefly explained the need for these documents. R. Odilova said that for the successful implementation of the project a document called "Stakeholder Engagement Plan" (SEP) has been prepared and we need to finalize it taking into account your opinions and suggestions. Consultant of CRPF M. Valiev M. spoke in detail about the Plan of interaction with stakeholders, i.e. first of all interaction with local state and executive authorities. He said that successful implementation of the project depends on close cooperation between the relevant authorities and their assistance. Consultant on environmental issues S. Niyatbekov informed the audience about environmental and social requirements. He told about normative legal documents of Tajikistan and about Social and Environmental Standards of the World Bank. The participants were very interested and asked a lot of questions about the beginning of construction of the RCUKS in Khujand. The project consultants answered all of the participants' questions. M. Kamolov, pension department: We have a department of CoES and Civil Defense in the 161 city. Is there a need to build another center? Answer: Existing departments do not have critical incident management centers. In the previous project, a modern center was built in Dushanbe. It is a headquarter and will be equipped with the most modern equipment to prevent disasters, avoid and prevent them if possible. It will save many human lives and prevent destruction. Ustoev P., Department of Employment: If the center is going to be built, it means that jobs will be created? Answer: Yes, of course. We have already said that with the beginning of the construction of the center there will be an opportunity to employ dozens of people. Of course, it requires mainly male construction workers, but there will also be jobs for women, such as cooks and cleaners. M. Ulmasova, Head of the Social Security Department: Who are the first to be accepted at work? Answer: Everyone is hired, but first of all those who have specialties. I should also note that under the terms of the World Bank, which are reflected in the project documents, benefits are given to the poor, very needy segments of the population. We invited you to explain these requirements to people on the ground. Samadov S., Specialist of Industry Department: According to my observations, in case of accidents or snowfall, we do not have enough special helicopters, so-called ambulances? There used to be such helicopters, but now they do not exist? Answer: It is not within our competence and objectives of the project. Your question can be answered by CoESCD, but we think that if RCUKS will be put into operation will be resolved a lot of issues related to assistance. This is what these centers are built for. Atoev A., chairman of "Dustiyi Khalkho" mahalla: The object is directly on our mahalla. During construction we will probably have to worry about something, i.e. construction mechanisms, noise, dust. Are these points taken into account? Answer: Yes, you must. This is what the framework documents are prepared for. We will try to minimize the impact of the project and the project specialists will work with you in this direction. H. Temirova, specialist of Women's Department: We understood the goals and objectives of the project and I think that everyone present here will be for the implementation of the project and support it. All meeting participants expressed their approval and willingness to help with the project. The protocol was prepared by M. Valiev. 162 List of participants of the meeting in Khujand Surname and first Place of work № name 1. Sharifzoda H. Regional Department of Emergency Situations and Civil Defense, Head of Personnel 2 Nuraliev Z. Head of the City Department of CoES and Civil Defense 3 Atoev A. Chairman of the mahalla "Dustii Khalkho". Khujand 4 Mulloyev J. Senior Rescue Officer, Department of CSF and Civil Defense 5 Ustoev P. Specialist of the Employment Department 6 Kamolov M. Pension Fund 7 Ulmasova N. Head of the Social Security Department 8 Gafurova M. Specialist of the State Property Department 9 Gafurova N. Leading Specialist of the State Property Department 10 Temirova H. Women's Department 11 Majidov A. Investments Department 12 Samadov S. Division of Industry 13 Shodiev S. Specialist of investment department 14 Faizulloyev I. Specialist of Economic Department 15 Khojaev R. Architect of the City 16 Rajabov M. Head of the Mahalla Department 17 Tolibov S. Civil Engineer 18 Bokizoda B. Deputy Chairman of the City of Khujand 163 164 Photos of Khujand 165 PROTOCOL № 5. Presentations of the project "Improving Disaster Preparedness and Resilience in the Republic of Tajikistan Karatag village, Balkhak village April 08, 2023 Present: Chairman of the mahalla and 32 villagers, 22 of whom were women (a list of participants is attached) Presentation topic Goals and objectives of the project "Improving Disaster Preparedness and Resilience in the Republic of Tajikistan Note: Handouts (brief information about the project) were prepared in two languages: (Tajik, Russian). The meeting was held in the state language, Tajik. Major Saivalizoda F., Deputy Head of the Financial and Economic Department of CoESCD, made an opening speech and introduced the representatives of CRPF MoF and consultants on social development and environmental issues to the participants of the meeting.Saivalizoda briefly described the purpose of the meeting and gave the floor to the representatives of CRPF Ministry of Finance. M Valiev M, social consultant of PIU MoF, informed the audience in detail about the objectives of the project, the timing of implementation, the components of the project and the territory of the project. It was noted in the territory of The training centre for rescue workers CoESCD, which is located near Balkhak village in Karatag. He spoke about the social and environmental requirements in the implementation of the project. She informed the participants that there are environmental and social risks when implementing the project. Although they are not significant, but it is necessary that they should be minimal. The participants were informed that the framework documents for the project implementation have been prepared: Environmental and Social Management Framework Document ( ESMF ), Resettlement Policy Framework Document (RPF), Labor Management Procedures (LMP) and briefly explained the need for these documents. And he also informed the participants about the "Stakeholder Engagement Plan" (SEP) and spoke in detail about the importance of stakeholder engagement, that is, primarily the interaction with local state executive authorities and residents of nearby villages where the project is implemented and the possible impacts. S. Niyatbekov, Consultant on Environmental Issues, informed the participants about the environmental requirements for project implementation. He told about normative legal documents of Tajikistan and Socio-Ecological Standards of the World Bank. Valiev M. told about the mechanism of consideration of complaints and suggestions. It was explained that during the implementation of the project citizens may have questions regarding the implementation of the project. For this reason, special boxes will be installed at each site to receive appeals. After the presentations, participants asked many questions. Project consultants and specialists answered all of the participants' questions. Khojaeva J, a housewife: We live next door to The training centre for rescue workers. 166 Does the project go beyond the territory of the Training center? Answer: As we said, the diver training center is not that big. No don't go out and don't bother. Zarifov S., unemployed: I don't work anywhere, that is, I want and can work, but I don't have a job. Can I hope to find a job when implementing the project? Answer: During the construction of the training center will need construction workers and unskilled workers. You can apply. F. Safarova, housewife: I am still unemployed and sitting at home. I understand that construction is men's work, but will it be possible for women to find a job here when implementing the project? Answer: We said that with the beginning of construction of the training center there will be an opportunity to temporarily employ dozens of people. Of course, mostly men in construction professions are needed there, but there will also be jobs for women, such as cooks and cleaners. Ochildiev R., chairman of the mahalla: Since we live close to the Training center we have some concerns. The thing is that the sewerage of our houses passes through the territory of the training center. Will the project affect our sewer system? Answer: As we were informed on the site where it is planned to build a training center there is no infrastructure. You can ask about this in detail from the specialists of CoESCD. F. Faizov, carpenter: I would like to know if they will hire everyone or only construction specialists? Answer: Everyone is hired, but first of all specialists. We should also note that under the terms of the World Bank, which are reflected in the project documents, benefits are given to poor people in need. You can inform others about the beginning of the project. Gaforova D., milkmaid: You said about the complaint mechanism. How many days are the deadlines for complaints? Answer: Complaints will be considered within 15 days, and if they are not resolved within this period, that is, the issue is complicated, then up to 30 days. In the documents that we handed out to you it is written in detail about this procedure, where you can read. All meeting participants expressed their approval and willingness to help with the project. The protocol was prepared by M. Valiev. 167 List of participants of the meeting in Karatag, Balkhak village Surname and first Place of work № name 1. Hodjaeva J. housewife 2 Sharipova R. Part Chef 3 Ochildieva S. Retired 4 Burakov A. Unit Commander 5 Dustov B. Unit Officer 6 Saidova S. Senior chef of the unit 7 Safarova G. School janitor 8 Safarova F. Housewife 9 Zaidulloeva Sh. Housewife 10 Karayeva U. Housewife 11 Gaforova D. Milkmaid 12 Olimova S. Entrepreneur 13 Alinazarova U. Housewife 14 Mirzomurodova Cook 15 Kodirova A. Housewife 16 Yusufova Z. Housewife 17 Atoeva B. Housewife 18 Khamraev M. Unemployed 19 Mirzomurodova M. Dishwasher 20 Nurulloeva H. Disabled 21 Turaeva Sh. Housewife 22 Boymanova Sh. Housewife 23 Musoev B. Unemployed 24 Rakhmonova S. Cook 25 Zaripov S. Unemployed 26 Ochildiev B. Unemployed 27 Faizov F. Carpenter 28 Kosimov S. Retired 168 29 Khushmadov A. Working 30 Ochildiev R. Mahalla Chairman 31 Halimov Unemployed 169 170 Photos of Karatag 171 172 PROTOCOL #6. Presentations of the project "Improving Disaster Preparedness and Resilience in the Republic of Tajikistan Hissar, Jamoat Somon 08 April 2023 Present: Chairman of the mahalla and 19 residents (list of participants is attached) Presentation topic Goals and objectives of the project "Improving Disaster Preparedness and Resilience in the Republic of Tajikistan Note: Handouts (brief information about the project) were prepared in two languages: (Tajik, Russian). The meeting was held in the state language, Tajik. Major Saivalizoda F., Deputy Head of the Financial and Economic Department of CoESCD, made an introductory speech and introduced the PIU MoF consultants on social development and environmental issues to the participants of the meeting. He briefly spoke about the purpose of the meeting. Consultant on social issues of PIU MoF Valiev M informed the participants in detail about the objectives of the project, the timing of implementation, the components of the project and the territory of the project. It was noted that on the territory of anti-hail service department of CoESCD, which is located near Shurobi Iskandar Jamoat Somon village, training classrooms for exchange of information between employees of anti-hail service of CoESCD and the Agency on Hydrometeorology of Tajikistan will be reconstructed. He spoke about the social and environmental requirements in the implementation of the project. He informed the participants that there are environmental and social risks in the implementation of the project. Although they are not significant, but it is necessary that they were minimal. Participants were informed that the project implementation framework documents have been prepared: Environmental and Social Management Framework Document ( ESMF ), Resettlement Policy Framework Document (RPF), Labor Management Procedures (LMP) and briefly explained the need for these documents. They explained the gist of the document - "Plan of interaction with stakeholders" (SEP) and in detail the importance of interaction with stakeholders, that is, primarily the interaction with local authorities and residents of nearby villages where the project is implemented and the possible impact of the project on the property of citizens and other. S. Niyatbekov, Consultant on Environmental Issues, informed the participants about the environmental requirements for project implementation. He told about normative legal documents of Tajikistan and Socio-Ecological Standards of the World Bank. Valiev M. also told about the mechanism of complaints and suggestions. It was explained that during the implementation of the project citizens may have questions regarding the implementation of the project. For this purpose, special boxes for receiving appeals will be installed at each site. The questions of the participants were of a different nature. Project consultants and specialists answered all of the participants' questions. Boborokhimov I: We live next to this Hail Service Department. Does the project go beyond 173 the territory of this Department? Answer: No, it's not. The old buildings will be renovated for co-curricular activities. Khamzaev S. builder: I don't work anywhere yet. I can work at this site. Will they accept me? Answer: When rebuilding the building will need construction workers and unskilled workers. When the construction starts you can apply. Sharipov J., worker: You said that during the implementation of the project, environmental and social protection plans will be prepared on the basis of framework documents. Who will monitor their compliance? Answer: A Project Implementation Unit will be established under the CoES and Go, which includes specialists in conservation measures, i.e. an ecologist and a sociologist. The contractor must comply with all requirements for environmental and social protection. Sultonov A., chairman of the mahalla: There is no drinking water in our village. We have imported water, i.e. drinking water is brought to us by water trucks. As we know, there is no drinking water in this department of anti-hail service. Can't the project support us in this? Answer: As we said, the purpose of the project in this case is to repair the building and provide the necessary tools. We can only refer your request to a higher authority. Zokirov E., entrepreneur: You said about the mechanism for reviewing complaints. How many days are the deadlines for reviewing complaints? Answer: Complaints will be reviewed within 15 days, and if they are not resolved within this period, that is, the issue is complicated, then up to 30 days. In the documents that we handed out to you it is written in detail about this procedure, where you can read. All meeting participants expressed their approval and willingness to help with the project. The protocol was prepared by M. Valiev. List of participants of the meeting in Somon Jamoat, Hissar Surname and first Place of work № name 1. Sultonov A. Entrepreneur 2 Boborakhimov. Unemployed 3 Abdulloev D. Retired 4 Khamzaev S. Builder 5 Nurov K. Working 6 Melikov N. Working 7 Yusupov A. Farmer 8 Kalandarov A. Cook 9 Rozikov Z. Working 174 10 Zokirov D. Entrepreneur 11 Hazratkulov Retired 12 Kodirov A. Working 13 Burhanzod B. Dehkan 14 Siyarov D Raochy 15 Sharipov J. Working 16 Murodov Sh. Handyman 17 Sultonov H. Handyman 18 Dzhuraev H. Salaried worker 19 Sultonov H. Working 20 Turaev A. Security Guard 175 176 Photos of Hissar 177 PROTOCOL #7. An introductory meeting with local government leaders, institutions, businesses, and activists about the project "Improving Disaster Preparedness and Resilience in the Republic of Tajikistan" Khorog City April 13, 2023 Present: First Deputy Chairman of the City of Khorog and 15 invitees, 6 of whom were women (a list of participants is attached) Topic of the meeting: 1.Objectives of the project "Improving Disaster Preparedness and Resilience in the Republic of Tajikistan 2. Components of the project 3. Questions and Discussions Note: Handouts (brief information about the project) were prepared in two languages: (Tajik, Russian). The meeting was held in the state language, Tajik. First Deputy Mayor of Khorog Vatansho Habib made opening remarks. He introduced the participants to the representatives of PIU MoF on social and environmental issues. The deputy mayor briefly spoke about the purpose of the meeting and gave the word to the representatives of PIU MoF. M. Valiev, Consultant on Social Issues, informed the participants in detail about the project objectives, project components, project implementation regions and implementation timeframe. Among other things, he said that under component 2.1 of the project, Regional Center for Critical Situations Management will be built in Khorog city. The consultant spoke about the social and environmental requirements in the implementation of the project. He informed the participants that the project has environmental and social risks. Although they are not significant, but it is necessary to keep them to a minimum. He said that the following framework documents were prepared for the project implementation: 1. Environmental and Social Management Framework (ESMF) 2. Resettlement Policy Framework (RPF) 3. Labor management plan (LMP) and briefly explained the need for these documents. 178 Valiev M. told that for the successful implementation of the project a document - "Stakeholder Engagement Plan" (SEP) was prepared and it is necessary to finalize it, taking into account your opinions and wishes. He spoke in detail about the Stakeholder Engagement Plan and noted that the first priority was to interact with local state executive authorities and the population on the ground. He said that successful implementation of the project depends on close cooperation between the relevant authorities and their assistance. Valiev M. informed the participants in detail about ecological and social requirements. He told about normative legal documents of Tajikistan and about Social and Environmental Standards of the World Bank regarding the project implementation. Consultant M. Valiev informed the participants of the meeting about the document - Procedures for Regulating Labor Relations (LMP). The participants were explained the requirements of laws and codes of RT and SES-2 of the World Bank for employment and customer/contractor relations The participants asked a lot of questions regarding the construction of the RC in Khorog. The project consultants answered all of the participants' questions. Mirzoev Z, chairman of Shokhtemur Jamoat: The regional center is being built on the site of the regional department of CoES and Civil Defense, which is located on the territory of our Jamoat and there may be problems related to the implementation of this project. Problems may be related to transport, since our streets, as you have seen, are very narrow. In addition, there may be difficulties with the supply of drinking water. Who will solve these issues? Answer: We understand your concern. Yes, the streets are narrow, there may be a shortage of drinking water. That is why we meet with you here to clarify together the possible problems and ways to solve them. Because of the narrow roads there may be traffic jams, but they are temporary and Contractor should take this into account and the project specialists will take control of the implementation of all safety requirements, including the movement of vehicles to and from the facility. The head of the department will answer you about the lack of drinking water. Mirakov N.: The construction of our RCUKS can in no way negatively affect the lives of our neighbors. On the contrary, we have our own well. When the building is designed, you will see for yourself. N. Dzhonmamadov, Chairman of Somonshahr Jamoat: Our city is not big, but we have little land, no large enterprises, and there are a lot of workers. It is 179 not easy to find a job here. We would like to know if our people can find a job during the construction of the RCUKS building? Answer: Yes, absolutely. The project documents say to hire local workers. At least 70 percent of the workers must be local. N. Fidolieva, leading specialist of the Youth Department : You showed us draft framework documents on ecology, resettlement, labor relations. What are these documents based on? Answer: Framework documents are prepared on the basis of normative legal documents of the Republic of Tajikistan and Social and Environmental Standards of the World Bank. If you pay attention, SES of the World Bank were adopted in 2018 and all the projects financed by the WB necessarily comply with these standards. All situations are taken into account in the project documents. First of all, we must take into account that during the implementation of the project the rights of all citizens, especially those who are affected by the project, will be respected. Vazirbekov A., a pensioner: I live on the street where the construction of the building is planned. If my peace is disturbed, can I apply to the hukumat of the city and directly to the project? Answer: The mechanism of complaints and suggestions is one of the main requirements of the framework documents. This mechanism gives citizens the opportunity, regardless of position, to express their opinions about the project as a whole and the construction of the building. At each site will be installed boxes for complaints and suggestions from citizens. Project specialists will receive them and together with the local government body (mahalla, jamoat) will solve problems. It should be noted that the project will consider those complaints that relate only to the activities of the project. List of participants of the meeting in the city of Khorog Place of work № Surname and first name 1. Watansho H. First deputy chairman of the city 2 Mirzoev Z. Chairman of the Jamoat Shokhtemur in Khorog 3 Jonmamadov N. Chairman of the Jamoat of Somonshahr in Khorog. 4 Sheralieva R. Chief accountant of the city department of education 5 Fidolieva N. Leading Specialist of the Youth Department 6 Vazirbekova M. Chief Specialist of the Social Security Department 180 7 Asanova R. Women's Department 8 Abdulgaffarov F. Leading Specialist of the Environmental Protection Department 9 Chavliev N. Employee of the City Department of Emergency Situations and Civil Defense 10 Mirakov N. Head of the Regional Department of CoES and Civil Defense 11 Shoismatov Sh. Retired 12 Vazirbekov A. Employee of the Regional Department of CoES and Civil Defense 13 Gulmamadov A. Retired 14 Kuvvatbekova A. Nurse 15 Faizullozoda A. Deputy Head of the Regional Department of CoES and Civil Defense 16 Tolib Faizullo Deputy Chairman of the City of Khorog 181 182 Photos of the meeting in Khorog 183 PROTOCOL #8. An introductory meeting with local government leaders, institutions, businesses, and activists about the project "Improving Disaster Preparedness and Resilience in the Republic of Tajikistan" Rasht District April 19, 2023 Attendance: First Deputy Chairman of the district and 18 invitees, of whom 6 were women (a list of participants is attached) Theme of the meeting: 1.Objectives of the "Strengthening Disaster Preparedness and Resilience in the Republic of Tajikistan" project 2. Components of the project 3. Questions and Discussions Note: Handouts (brief information about the project) and presentations were prepared in two languages: (Tajik, Russian). The meeting was held in the state language, Tajik. First deputy chairman of Rasht district khukumat for economic issues Sharifzoda M. made an opening speech. He thanked employees of project implementing agencies and said that we are glad that with the support of the project we will have restored roads. The deputy chairman introduced the representatives of PIU MoF and GRP MoT - consultants on social development and environmental issues to the participants. S. Niyatbekov, Consultant on environmental issues of PIU MoF, informed the participants in detail about the project objectives, implementation timeframe, project components and project implementation regions. In particular, he said that under Component 1 of the project, critical sections of the Dushanbe-Rasht-Karamik road (border with the Kyrgyz Republic) will be restored in the Rasht, Tajikabad, Lakhsh and Roghun districts of the Rasht region. D. Safarov, social consultant of PIG MT told about the social and environmental requirements in the implementation of the project. He informed the participants that there are environmental and social risks in the project implementation. He noted that the following framework documents are being prepared for the project implementation: 1. Environmental and Social Action Management Framework (ESMF) 184 2. Resettlement Policy Framework (RPF) 3. Labor management plan (LMP) and briefly explained the need for these documents. Safarov D. said that for the successful implementation of the project, a document - "Plan of Interaction with Stakeholders" (SEP) has been prepared and we need to finalize it taking into account the opinions and wishes of experts and citizens in general. Consultant on environmental issues of GRP MoT Nosirov R. informed the participants about the Plan of interaction with stakeholders, i.e. joint work with local state and executive authorities. He said that the successful implementation of the project depends on close cooperation between the relevant authorities and their assistance. Nosirov R. informed the audience about environmental and social requirements. He told about normative legal documents of Tajikistan and about Social and Environmental Standards of the World Bank. Participants were very interested in the project and asked many questions about the start of its implementation in the Rasht Valley. S. Niyatbekov informed the participants of the meeting about the document – Labor management plan (LMP). The project consultants answered questions from the participants. Q&A A. Saidakhmadov, head of the road maintenance site: Near the village of Belgi, on the right side of the Surkhob river the bridge is destroyed. There it is necessary to carry out restoration work on the bank and the construction of a pedestrian bridge, which the population began to build, but due to a lack of funds have remained so. Answer: As we have already said, the project will finance critical sections of the Dushanbe-Rasht-Lakhsh-Karamik road. Specific sections have not been identified yet. The necessary sections are being designed, which need to be rehabilitated, and then we will be able to say precisely. S. Mirakov, teacher: At the beginning I would like to thank the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan and the World Bank for this project. Indeed, we have many dangerous sections of roads in the region. Take our region, i.e. Rasht, how much more needs to be done. You correctly noted that due to natural disasters we have a lot of economic losses every year. Despite this, we see that our government, with the support of the World Bank and other international organizations, is trying to make our lives easier. I just wanted to express my wish. Thank you to all those involved in the implementation of the project. 185 S. Sharipova, Specialist of Social Protection Department: As I understand it, the project will create new jobs. Will only specialists be hired? Answer: When reconstruction and new construction work begins, contractors will hire local residents. This is a requirement of the WB. Specialists and workers, i.e. people of working professions: carpenters, concrete workers, reinforcing workers and others can be hired. It should be noted that there are jobs for women, too. They can work as cooks, cleaners, etc.. Abdonov A., land surveyor: From your words, we understand that the project does not take new land. Still, there may be questions about resettlement and allocation of new land plots? Answer: There are such risks during implementation and we take them into account. Strengthening of important sections of the road will take place within the existing road, but we can say exactly after the design. All these points are taken into account in the framework documents, as you know, we told about these requirements. M. Sharifzoda, First Deputy Chairman of the district, summarizing the meeting, thanked all the participants and assured that the district Hukumat will always support the implementation of the project. List of participants in the Rasht meeting Place of work № Surname and first name 1. Sharifzoda M Deputy Chairman of the District 2 Saidakhmadov A. Head of the road maintenance department 3 Abdonov A. Specialist of the Committee on Land Settlement 4 Saigufronov Z. Head of the Employment Department 186 5 Rasulov J. Architect 6 Mirakov S. Teacher 7 Obidov M. Head of the state agency for road maintenance 8 Sharipov M. Chief engineer state agency road maintenance 9 Gulomov R. Entrepreneur 10 Kalandarov M. A representative of the local press 11 Abdulloeva Yu. Industrial Specialist 12 Sharipova S. Head of the Environmental Protection Department 13 Obidzoda M. Representative of the Youth Department 14 Bekov M. Chairman of the Jamoat 15 Makhmadov A. Chairman of the Jamoat 16 Khodzhiev H. Chief Architect of the district 17 Shafoev B. Insurance Department 18 Islomova Z. Specialist of the Employment Department 19 Gulomova S. Teacher 187 188 Rasht Photos 189 Annex 2: SOCIAL SCREENING CHECKLIST Activities Yes No Notes 1 Acquisitions of land, buildings (residential and business) If "Yes", and answers other questions "No", provide relevant documents, available for the final sales transaction 2 Acquisitions or expansion of the business, which will be implemented by the demolition/ relocation homeowners, renters, formal and informal If yes, provide more details user assets 3 Acquisition of assets, which will cause the loss of access of people or a particular community/groups, especially If yes, provide more details ethnic minorities to: · Natural resources · The traditional habitat · The traditional activities · Communal utilities 4 Acquisitions/or expansion of a business that can If yes, provide more details promote/increase the risk of: 1. Violation of the labor code and laws including the use of child labor 2. Harassment of ethnic minority groups in the areas of project (related to their identity, dignity and livelihoods of the system of subsistence, cultural identity) 3. Human trafficking and forced labor 5 Will there be land acquisition using eminent domain If yes, provide more details law? 6 Will there be permanent or temporary loss of shelter and If yes, provide more details residential land due to land acquisition? 7 Will there be permanent or temporary loss of agricultural If yes, provide more details and other productive assets due to land acquisition? 8 Will there be losses of crops, trees, and fixed assets due If yes, provide more details to land acquisition? 9 Will there be permanent or temporary loss of businesses If yes, provide more details or enterprises due to land acquisition? 10 Will there be permanent or temporary loss of income If yes, provide more details sources and means of livelihoods due to land acquisition? 190 11 If land or private property is purchased through If yes, provide more details negotiated settlement or willing buyer-willing seller, will it result in the permanent or temporary removal or displacement of renters, or leaseholders? 12 If land or private property is purchased through If yes, provide more details negotiated settlement or willing buyer-willing seller, will it result in the permanent or temporary removal or displacement of informal land-users (people without legal rights on the land) or squatters? 13 Will the project involve any permanent or temporary If yes, provide more details restrictions in land use or access to legally designated parks or protected areas and cause people or any community to lose access to natural resources, traditional habitats, communal land, or communal facilities? 14 Will the project use government land or any public land If yes, provide more details or property, which will require the permanent or temporary removal of informal occupants or users (residential or economic)? The Social Development Specialist confirms that the assigned land / proposed subproject Has Involuntary Resettlement (IR) impact, a Resettlement Action Plan is required Will not have IR impact Completed by (full name and contacts): _____________________________________ Signature: _________ Date:________________________ 191 Annex 3: ENVIRONMENTAL SCREENING CHECKLIST SCREENING QUESTIONS YES NO REMARKS Project Site Is the Project area adjacent to or within any of the following environmentally sensitive areas? Cultural heritage site If yes, provide more details Protected area If yes, provide more details Wetland If yes, provide more details Tugai If yes, provide more details Buffer zone of protected area If yes, provide more details Special area for protecting If yes, provide more details biodiversity Underground utilities If yes, provide more details Potential Environmental Impacts Will the Project cause … Encroachment on historical / cultural If yes, provide more details area; disfiguration of landscape by construction? Encroachment on precious ecology If yes, provide more details (e.g. sensitive or protected areas)? Alteration of surface water hydrology If yes, provide more details of waterways resulting in increased sediment in streams affected by increased soil erosion at construction site? Deterioration of surface water quality If yes, provide more details due to silt runoff and sanitary wastes from worker-based camps and chemicals used in construction? Increased local air pollution due to If yes, provide more details rock crushing, cutting and filling works, and chemicals from construction site? Requirements for disposal of fill, If yes, provide more details excavation, and/or spoil materials? Noise and vibration due to blasting If yes, provide more details and other civil works?? Community safety risks due to both If yes, provide more details accidental and natural hazards, especially where the structural elements or components of the project are accessible to members of the affected community or where their failure could result in injury to the 192 SCREENING QUESTIONS YES NO REMARKS community throughout project construction, operation and decommissioning? Other social concerns relating to If yes, provide more details inconveniences in living conditions in the project areas that may trigger cases of upper respiratory problems and stress? Poor sanitation and solid waste If yes, provide more details disposal in construction camps and work sites, and possible transmission of communicable diseases from workers to local populations? Creation of temporary breeding If yes, provide more details habitats for mosquito vectors of disease? Accident risks associated with If yes, provide more details increased vehicular traffic, leading to accidental spills of toxic materials and loss of life? Increased noise and air pollution If yes, provide more details resulting from traffic volume? Risks to community safety caused by If yes, provide more details fire, electric shock, or failure of the buildings safety features during operation? 193 Annex 4. HEALTH, SAFETY AND WELLBEING INSPECTION CHECKLISTS Project name: Project no: Project location: Inspection date: Inspection team Note: Full compliance record Y=Yes and record positive findings – For partial compliance record N=No and record findings to correct. N/A Comments and Corrective actions if Close-out Item Y required By N (date) Initials 1.0 Plant and Equipment Plant in sound condition? Daily pre-start checks completed? Safety items/faults recorded in pre-start checklist? Lights, signals, beepers working? Fire extinguishers fitted/charged? Seat belts installed/worn? Speed limits posted/observed? Driver/operator ticketed/licenced? Warning signs/stickers in place? PPE worn for type of plant? Worker and Other separation acceptable? High visibility clothing worn? Spotters being used during plant operations? Safe operations being observed by all? 194 Note: Full compliance record Y=Yes and record positive findings – For partial compliance record N=No and record findings to correct. N/A Comments and Corrective actions if Close-out Item Y required By N (date) Initials 2.0 Cranage and Rigging Operator, dog man, rigger, Trained/certified? Log book/maintenance records? Daily pre-start checks completed? Any oil or diesel leaks? Load charts/certificates available? All Rigging gear tagged/colour code? Rigging gear/slings good condition? Rigging gear/slings stored correctly? Fire extinguishers fitted/charged? Hooks, clasps, shackles good working order and condition? Outriggers used, stabilized pads and correct set-up? PPE available and worn? 3.0 Motor Vehicles Daily pre-start checks completed? 4wd roll-over bar fitted? Brakes, warning lights operating? Glass in clean condition? Fire extinguishers/fitted/charged? Seat belts installed/worn? Reverse beeper operating? Qualified operators for on- site plant and equipment appointed? Operators are provided with refresher training? First aid kitted fitted/supplied and stocked? 4.0 Power Tools Tools, cords in good condition? 195 Note: Full compliance record Y=Yes and record positive findings – For partial compliance record N=No and record findings to correct. N/A Comments and Corrective actions if Close-out Item Y required By N (date) Initials Correct tools used for the job? Guards on tools in place? Tools/leads/cords tagged/correct colour and recorded? RCDs fitted, including portable generators? RCDs tested and results recorded? Terminal boxes with covers? Switch boards locked, access, phone number for access? Electrical leads protected from damage? PPE available and worn? Specialized PPE for special work (face/eyes/gloves) provided and worn? Earth stake in place on generators (unless earth bonding on generator)? 5.0 Compressed Air Compressor fitted with silenced unit? Fire Extinguisher available? All valves operational and correct? Inspection – Tags on machine/tools with details recorded? Whip checks/chains on hoses fitted? Drip tray provided under diesel engine fill point? Specific PPE for Workers using air tools (AVG/Hearing Protection/etc.)? Manifolds tested and identified effective? Exhaust fumes from compressor away from working area/location? 6.0 Flammable Gases and 196 Note: Full compliance record Y=Yes and record positive findings – For partial compliance record N=No and record findings to correct. N/A Comments and Corrective actions if Close-out Item Y required By N (date) Initials Liquids Containers/drums clearly marked with contents? Safety Data Sheets is available /current? Correct separation of cylinders? Storage area well ventilated? Cylinders stored out of sun/heat? Gas cylinders vertical, secured/chained? Fire extinguishers available /charged? No smoking and hazard signs in place and visible? Cylinder caps in available and use? Bunds/drip trays available and in place? All inspection/colour coded tags used and legible? Empty/Full cylinders segregated, stored and secured? 7.0 Welding and Cutting Hot work permit in place/used? All hoses fitted with 2 Flash Back arrestors (Cylinder/Torch end)? Electrical leads protected? Screen in place when welding is being carried out? Gas bottles on trolley and restrained? Fire extinguisher in place at work point? All equipment inspected/tags current? Cylinder caps in use and secured in place? Specific PPE available and being used? Fireproof blankets available and in place? 197 Note: Full compliance record Y=Yes and record positive findings – For partial compliance record N=No and record findings to correct. N/A Comments and Corrective actions if Close-out Item Y required By N (date) Initials Signage in positioned and placed to notify workers and others? Drip trays under stationary diesel-powered machines? Flammable material separated as required by the permit? 8.0 Materials Handling, Storage Material stored, secured and/or stacked safely? Traffic control in storage and access area? Manual lifting operations safe and correct for material handling? Mechanical aids for lifting available and used? Materials weather protected (Sun, Rain, Storm etc.)? Signage is in place to notify workers and others? No temporary or permanent water holding areas to favour mosquito breeding? Spotters available to manage traffic and worker movement and control? Adequate space for vehicles to manoeuvre around/through compound? 9.0 Hazardous Substances Safety Data Sheets available at location? Hazardous/Chemical (HazChem) storage with good ventilation? Eye wash, showers, and hand wash facility? Hazardous liquids in suitable bund facility? No smoking signs displayed? Correct PPE available and being worn? Signage for HazChem 198 Note: Full compliance record Y=Yes and record positive findings – For partial compliance record N=No and record findings to correct. N/A Comments and Corrective actions if Close-out Item Y required By N (date) Initials displayed and visible? Correct spill kits available and stocked? HazChem containers appropriately labelled? HazChem certified handlers appointed? HazChem test certification required and certificates displayed/available? 10.0 Work at Height Fall protection (barricades, railings) in place to prevent falls? Access to working at height is adequate and safe? Exclusion zones are in place and effective for the area? Ladders used are inspected/tagged? Are ladders used for access only? Are ladders secure (top & bottom) to prevent movement - 1m over, 1m < / 4m>?? Are industrial ladders used for the work being undertaken? Are harness available and required/worn and used correctly? Is the work permit required, completed in full and sign- off obtained by all involved? Are all penetrations covered/cover secured – wording ‘hole below’? Are ladders stored/maintained/protected correctly? 11.0 Scaffold Are Scaftags/Registers in place (signed off) and current as required for inspection requirements? 199 Note: Full compliance record Y=Yes and record positive findings – For partial compliance record N=No and record findings to correct. N/A Comments and Corrective actions if Close-out Item Y required By N (date) Initials Is scaffolding erected where needed for the work activities? Is the scaffolding erected by Competent/Certified persons? Are access to platforms in place, hand, mid-rails, toe boards in place secure and safe? Floor openings coverings – As above in 10.0 Working at height? Safety harness available, worn and used during erection of scaffolding? Foundations support for type of scaffolding adequate for loading, sound and secure? Warning signage in place, visible to all workers and others? Is the Scaffolding adequate for the job/activities being carried out? The scaffolding complies with design drawings (Temporary Works)? What type of Scaffolding is provided – basic, special, suspended, hanging? 12.0 Excavations and Trenching Daily checks completed by competent person and recorded? Checks for underground services performed prior to excavation? Underground services located prior to excavation (hand digging, HydroVac)? Are sufficient and adequate barricaded in place to prevent falls into excavations? Are ladders used/secured for a safe means of access and 200 Note: Full compliance record Y=Yes and record positive findings – For partial compliance record N=No and record findings to correct. N/A Comments and Corrective actions if Close-out Item Y required By N (date) Initials egress in/out of excavation? Is the excavation >1.5 metres deep shored, battered benched? Is the excavated material away from the cut face (1 metre)? Is the excavation/trench width adequate for working activities? Is Air quality checks being done prior/during work activities and are the readings recorded? Is the excavation/trench Benching/Battering/Shoring adequate? 13.0 Formwork/Concrete Work Are design drawings available for the temporary works and sign-off obtained? Is the temporary works erected in accordance with design drawings? Is the temporary works inspected prior to and during pour? Is the Formwork In good order and safe condition? Is the Formwork process/JSEA covers “do not drop” when being stripped? Penetrations covered and cover secured/fixed with words – ‘hole below’? All Vertical bars are covered and protected with anti- implament devices All waste concrete controlled and disposed of correctly? 14.0 Traffic Management (Pedestrian and Vehicle) Traffic Management Plan(s) approved by the Engineer? Traffic control and signs 201 Note: Full compliance record Y=Yes and record positive findings – For partial compliance record N=No and record findings to correct. N/A Comments and Corrective actions if Close-out Item Y required By N (date) Initials checked every 2 hourly for compliance with the plan? Road traffic rules/signs being obeyed by workers and others? Barriers and signage adequate for the work activities? Are proactive measures in place to prevent pedestrians and vehicles entering active working areas? Parking rules are obeyed by workers and others? Speed limits obeyed by workers and others? Dust suppression systems being operated and adequate for the whole operation? Lighting available and adequate for the tasks during dusk/night operations? Driving habits being observed comply with on- site requirements? Haul roads sign posted, marked, maintained and have adequate edge bund for usage? Traffic awareness workshops held – Schools, churches, community meetings etc.? TMP distributed to all workers, drivers, operators working on-site? Are weekly safety awareness and enhancement meetings held and attended by everyone? Traffic light system used, maintained and is manned? Maximum traffic diversions for work activities – 5 Km rural – 1 Km urban? Minimum lane width for traffic movement – single 3.5m – two-way 7.5m 202 Note: Full compliance record Y=Yes and record positive findings – For partial compliance record N=No and record findings to correct. N/A Comments and Corrective actions if Close-out Item Y required By N (date) Initials Roads maintained in a safe and trafficable condition at all times? Has the contractor prepared a response plan for deteriorating road conditions/environment? Has the Contractor prepared a detailed completion report? 15.0 Housekeeping Specific waste bins available and in place/used emptied/lids? Waste bins to segregated items used on-site (Wood, Steel Recycle)? All work areas are tidy and with safe access to all locations? On-site sewage/septic tanks are controlled and not allowed to overflowing? Walkways and passages demarcated/tidy/safe and maintained? Shelter from sun/rain provided and maintained? Signage legible, clean, visible and appropriate? Waste containers for cigarette butts provided and used? Lighting adequate provided within facilities and to work locations? Hi Glare locations identified, and workers advised/informed to avoided? Security site fencing installed around hazards/compound? Site fencing in good order and condition with appropriate signs advising “Authorised Entry Only”? Office areas in a clean, tidy and hygienic condition? 203 Note: Full compliance record Y=Yes and record positive findings – For partial compliance record N=No and record findings to correct. N/A Comments and Corrective actions if Close-out Item Y required By N (date) Initials Storage areas clearly defined, tidy and maintained? Appropriate signs to inform visitors, workers and others fixed and visible to all? 16.0 Fire Prevention Adequate number of Fire extinguishers available and in place? All extinguishers have clear and ready access to uplift? All extinguishers inspection tags up to date? Appropriate signage in place to inform those in the area? Correct Firefighting procedure displayed? Emergency contact Numbers’ displayed (fire, ambulance, police)? No smoking enforcement/signs displayed? Extinguishers suitable type/size for environment? Company vehicles fitted with fire extinguishers? Emergency response plan displayed and understood by all in the area? 17.0 First Aid Facilities 1st Aid person(s) on site for the number of workers in the area? 1st Aid kit stocked, maintained and stocks are within expire date? Emergency contact numbers for first aiders is displayed around site? Signage for response is adequate and visible for all to see/read? All shifts operations are adequately covered? 204 Note: Full compliance record Y=Yes and record positive findings – For partial compliance record N=No and record findings to correct. N/A Comments and Corrective actions if Close-out Item Y required By N (date) Initials Emergency plan displayed and understood by all workers? A clinic provided with suitable equipment and staff to provide treatment for workers? Medical doctor appointed and a nurse with two years’ experience? 18.0 Health / Amenities Mess Rooms/Toilets clean, hygienic and tidy condition? Mess rooms and toilets adequate for numbers and size of workforce? Female toilet provided with additional personal equipment provided? Soap and paper towels available and maintained? Wash your hands signs legible and displayed? Correct drinking water supply available? Food storage adequate for all types of environments? Quit smoking signage visible and displayed? Fitness for work signage visible and displayed? UV Protection cream available, used and maintained? Hazard/Incident reporting system in place? Vehicle available for treatment and transport of injured worker/visit to medical centre? The breeding sites (stagnant water ponds) for mosquitoes are eliminated? Is a medical clinic, with all necessary medication provided? 205 Note: Full compliance record Y=Yes and record positive findings – For partial compliance record N=No and record findings to correct. N/A Comments and Corrective actions if Close-out Item Y required By N (date) Initials Has any outbreak of illness of an epidemic nature occurred? Is a plan in place to manage an outbreak of illness? 19.0 Asbestos Removal JSEA prepared to cover the removal of asbestos and engagement of workers prior to it being issued? Is the correct PPE available and being used? Is the asbestos material being contained correctly? Are the correct disposal methods being used and the appropriate dockets available and completed in full)? Is the Asbestos Contractor an approved remover with current certification? 20.0 Lasers Is appropriate signage in place and visible to all in the area? Is the equipment being used positioned so as Not erected at eye level? Has a Laser Safety Officer been appointed on-site for (class 2 or 3A)? 21.0 Noise Has a noise assessment been conducted to identify if any excessive levels exist? Has any personnel monitoring been carried out in noisy areas? Is the correct PPE available, been issued, worn and maintained by the workers and others? Is the correct signage erected to inform workers and others as required? Is a medical assessment 206 Note: Full compliance record Y=Yes and record positive findings – For partial compliance record N=No and record findings to correct. N/A Comments and Corrective actions if Close-out Item Y required By N (date) Initials conducted with each worker exposed to high noise levels? 22.0 Explosive Power tools Are Operators trained and hold the correct certification? Are warning signs visible and in place to warn workers and others? Is the correct PPE available, been issued, worn and maintained by the workers using the tool and other in close proximity? Is the tool placed in a secure container? Does the tool display and has current certification? 23.0 Confined spaces Has the Hazard/Risks been Identified for the confined space? Has a JSEA been prepared with the engagement of the workers and, issued? Is air monitoring completed prior to entry and during work within the confined space and recorded? Is breathing apparatus available and used by workers and have they received the required training? Is a rescue plan developed and appropriate rescue equipment available? Is an entry permit prepared and complete correctly? Are all those involved trained and competent workers for the confined space work? Standby/Spotter are in place and trained to respond? 207 Note: Full compliance record Y=Yes and record positive findings – For partial compliance record N=No and record findings to correct. N/A Comments and Corrective actions if Close-out Item Y required By N (date) Initials All Isolation of external hazards are in place, checked and verified complete? All workers familiar with confined space requirements? 24.0 Explosives Has a Blasting Management Plan been prepared and approved by the Engineer? Site location/plan approved by the Engineer? Storage facility designed and approved for the explosives? Transportation of explosives is in compliance with legislative controls and procedures? Controls during blasting operations are in-place and effective? Blasting operations under the control of a qualified and certified Blaster? The Engineer is notified within the specified time- lines set within the contract? Buildings and services are provided with adequate protection to prevent damage from flying debris? All precautions are in-place to ensure no harm to individuals during blasting operations? Police control traffic movement within 400 m of the blasting operations? All signs are in place to warn others of the blasting operations? The use of a Vibro-metre is in place during blasting? Weather condition have been assessed (Lighting Storms etc.)? 24.0 Other – Specify 208 Note: Full compliance record Y=Yes and record positive findings – For partial compliance record N=No and record findings to correct. N/A Comments and Corrective actions if Close-out Item Y required By N (date) Initials Activity: JSEA reviewed by all relevant workers? JSEA controls being implemented and review as required? Has the work environment changed since commencement? Does the JSEA require revision and has this been done on a regular basis? 209 Annex 5: INDICATIVE OUTLINE OF ESIA Where an environmental and social impact assessment is prepared as part of the environmental and social assessment, it will include the following: (a) Executive Summary • Concisely discusses significant findings and recommended actions. (b) Legal and Institutional Framework • Analyzes the legal and institutional framework for the project, within which the environmental and social assessment is carried out, including the issues set out in ESS1, paragraph 2618 • Compares the Borrower’s existing environmental and social framework and the ESSs and identifies the gaps between them. • Identifies and assesses the environmental and social requirements of any co-financiers. (c) Project Description • Concisely describes the proposed project and its geographic, environmental, social, and temporal context, including any offsite investments that may be required (e.g., dedicated pipelines, access roads, power supply, water supply, housing, and raw material and product storage facilities), as well as the project’s primary suppliers. • Through consideration of the details of the project, indicates the need for any plan to meet the requirements of ESS1 through 10. • Includes a map of sufficient detail, showing the project site and the area that may be affected by the project’s direct, indirect, and cumulative impacts. (d) Baseline Data • Sets out in detail the baseline data that is relevant to decisions about project location, design, operation, or mitigation measures. This should include a discussion of the accuracy, reliability, and sources of the data as well as information about dates surrounding project identification, planning and implementation. • Identifies and estimates the extent and quality of available data, key data gaps, and uncertainties associated with predictions. 18 27 ESS1, paragraph 26, states that the environmental and social assessment takes into account in an appropriate manner all issues relevant to the project, including: (a) the country’s applicable policy framework, national laws and regulations, and institutional capabilities (incl uding implementation) relating to environment and social issues; variations in country conditions and project context; country environmental or social studies; national environmental or social action plans; and obligations of the country directly applicable to the project under relevant international treaties and agreements; (b) applicable requirements under the ESSs; and (c) the EHSGs, and other relevant GIIP. 210 • Based on current information, assesses the scope of the area to be studied and describes relevant physical, biological, and socioeconomic conditions, including any changes anticipated before the project commences. • Takes into account current and proposed development activities within the project area but not directly connected to the project. (e) Environmental and Social Risks and Impacts • • Takes into account all relevant environmental and social risks and impacts of the project. This will include the environmental and social risks and impacts specifically identified in ESS2–8, and any other environmental and social risks and impacts arising as a consequence of the specific nature and context of the project, including the risks and impacts identified in ESS1, paragraph 28. (f) Mitigation Measures • Identifies mitigation measures and significant residual negative impacts that cannot be mitigated and, to the extent possible, assesses the acceptability of those residual negative impacts. • Identifies differentiated measures so that adverse impacts do not fall disproportionately on the disadvantaged or vulnerable. • Assesses the feasibility of mitigating the environmental and social impacts; the capital and recurrent costs of proposed mitigation measures, and their suitability under local conditions; and the institutional, training, and monitoring requirements for the proposed mitigation measures. • Specifies issues that do not require further attention, providing the basis for this determination. (g) Analysis of Alternatives • Systematically compares feasible alternatives to the proposed project site, technology, design, and operation—including the “without project” situation—in terms of their potential environmental and social impacts. • Assesses the alternatives’ feasibility of mitigating the environmental and social impacts; the capital and recurrent costs of alternative mitigation measures, and their suitability under local conditions; and the institutional, training, and monitoring requirements for the alternative mitigation measures. • For each of the alternatives, quantifies the environmental and social impacts to the extent possible, and attaches economic values where feasible. (h) Design Measures • Sets out the basis for selecting the particular project design proposed and specifies the applicable EHSGs or if the ESHGs are determined to be inapplicable, justifies recommended emission levels and approaches to pollution prevention and abatement that are consistent with GIIP. 211 (i) Key Measures and Actions for the Environmental and Social Commitment Plan (ESCP) • Summarizes key measures and actions and the timeframe required for the project to meet the requirements of the ESSs. This will be used in developing the Environmental and Social Commitment Plan (ESCP). (j) Appendices • List of the individuals or organizations that prepared or contributed to the environmental and social assessment. • References—setting out the written materials both published and unpublished, that have been used. • Record of meetings, consultations and surveys with stakeholders, including those with affected people and other interested parties. The record specifies the means of such stakeholder engagement that were used to obtain the views of affected people and other interested parties. • Tables presenting the relevant data referred to or summarized in the main text. • List of associated reports or plans 212 Annex 6: ENVIRONMENTAL SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN (Template) General Remarks. If an ESIA is required, then the ESMP should be an Annex to the ESIA. For smaller activities, only an ESMP or ESMP checklist is required. An Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) should outline the mitigation, monitoring and administrative measures to be taken during project implementation to avoid or eliminate negative environmental and social impacts. Description of the of the Environmental and Social Management Plan The Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) identifies feasible and cost-effective measures that may reduce potentially significant adverse environmental impacts to acceptable levels. The plan includes compensatory measures if mitigation measures are not feasible, cost-effective, or sufficient. Specifically, the ESMP (a) identifies and summarizes all anticipated significant adverse environmental impacts (including those involving indigenous people or involuntary resettlement); (b) describes--with technical details--each mitigation measure, including the type of impact to which it relates and the conditions under which it is required (e.g., continuously or in the event of contingencies), together with designs, equipment descriptions, and operating procedures, as appropriate; (c) estimates any potential environmental impacts of these measures; and (d) provides linkage with any other mitigation plans (e.g., for involuntary resettlement, indigenous peoples, or cultural property) required for the project. Monitoring Environmental monitoring during project implementation provides information about key environmental aspects of the project, particularly the environmental impacts of the project and the effectiveness of mitigation measures. Such information enables the borrower and the Bank to evaluate the success of mitigation as part of project supervision, and allows corrective action to be taken when needed. Therefore, the ESMP identifies monitoring objectives and specifies the type of monitoring, with linkages to the impacts assessed in the ESIA report and the mitigation measures described in the EMP. Specifically, the monitoring section of the ESMP provides(a) a specific description, and technical details, of monitoring measures, including the parameters to be measured, methods to be used, sampling locations, frequency of measurements, detection limits (where appropriate), and definition of thresholds that will signal the need for corrective actions; and (b) monitoring and reporting procedures to (i) ensure early detection of conditions that necessitate particular mitigation measures, and (ii) furnish information on the progress and results of mitigation. Capacity Development and Training To support timely and effective implementation of environmental project components and mitigation measures, the ESMP draws on the EIA's assessment of the existence, role, and capability of environmental units on site or at the agency and ministry level. If necessary, the ESMP recommends the establishment or expansion of such units, and the training of staff, to allow implementation of ESIA recommendations. Specifically, the ESMP provides a specific description of institutional arrangements - who is responsible for carrying out the mitigation and monitoring measures (e.g., for operation, supervision, enforcement, monitoring of implementation, remedial action, financing, reporting, and staff training). To strengthen environmental management capability in the agencies responsible for implementation, most ESMPs cover one or more of the following additional topics: (a) technical assistance programs, (b) procurement of equipment and supplies, and (c) organizational 213 changes. Implementation Schedule and Cost Estimates For all three aspects (mitigation, monitoring, and capacity development), the ESMP provides (a) an implementation schedule for measures that must be carried out as part of the project, showing phasing and coordination with overall project implementation plans; and (b) the capital and recurrent cost estimates and sources of funds for implementing the ESMP. These figures are also integrated into the total project cost tables. Integration of ESMP with Project The borrower's decision to proceed with a project, and the Bank's decision to support it, is predicated in part on the expectation that the ESMP will be executed effectively. Consequently, the Bank expects the plan to be specific in its description of the individual mitigation and monitoring measures and its assignment of institutional responsibilities, and it must be integrated into the project's overall planning, design, budget, and implementation. Such integration is achieved by establishing the ESMP within the project so that the plan will receive funding and supervision along with the other components. The Environmental and Social Management Plan format provided in Form below. It represents a model for development of an ESMP. The model divides the project cycle into three phases: construction, operation and decommissioning. For each phase, the preparation team identifies any significant environmental impacts that are anticipated based on the analysis done in the context of preparing an environmental assessment. For each impact, mitigation measures are to be identified and listed. Estimates are made of the cost of mitigation actions broken down by estimates for installation (investment cost) and operation (recurrent cost). The ESMP format also provides for the identification of institutional responsibilities for "installation" and operation of mitigation devices and methods. To keep track of the requirements, responsibilities and costs for monitoring the implementation of environmental mitigation identified in the analysis included in an environmental assessment a monitoring plan is necessary. A Monitoring Plan format is provided in Annex 4 and includes a row for baseline information that is critical to achieving reliable and credible monitoring. The key elements of the matrix are: • What is being monitored? • Where is monitoring done? • How is the parameter to be monitored to ensure meaningful comparisons? • When or how frequently is monitoring necessary or most effective? • Why is the parameter being monitored (what does it tell us about environmental impact)? In addition to these questions, it is necessary to identify the costs associated with monitoring (both investment and recurrent) and the institutional responsibilities. When a monitoring plan is developed and put in place in the context of project implementation, the PIU will request reports at appropriate intervals and include the findings in its periodic reporting to the World Bank and make the findings available to Bank staff during supervision missions. 214 Environmental and Social Management Plan Format Key Activities Potential ES Proposed Mitigation Measures Responsibilities Timeline Budget Risks and Impacts Install Operate Planning and Designing Stage Identify the type, location and scale construction or rehabilitation works Identify the need for new construction, expansion, upgrading and/or rehabilitation Identify the needs for ancillary works and associated facilities, such as access roads, construction materials, supplies of water and power, sewage system Identify the needs for acquisition of land and assets (e.g. acquiring existing assets such as hostel, stadium to hold potential patients) Identify onsite and Inadequate facilities and ➢ Estimate potential waste offsite waste processes for treatment of streams management waste ➢ Consider the capacity of facilities, and waste existing facilities, and plan to transportation routes increase capacity, if necessary, and service providers through construction, expansion etc. ➢ Specify that the design of the facility considers the collection, segregation, transport and treatment of the anticipated volumes and types of healthcare wastes ➢ Require that receptacles for waste should be sized appropriately for the waste volumes generated, and color coded and labeled according to the types of waste to be deposited. Develop appropriate protocols for the collection of waste and transportation to storage/disposal areas in accordance with WHO guidance. Design training for staff in the segregation of wastes at the time of use Identify needs for ➢ Identify numbers and types of workforce and type workers of project workers ➢ Consider accommodation and measures to minimize cross infection RCMC Facilities - Structural safety risk; design – general - Functional layout and engineering control for nosocomial infection RCHC Facilities Some groups may have design - difficulty accessing health considerations for facilities differentiated treatment for groups of higher sensitivity or vulnerable (the elderly, those with preexisting conditions, or the very young) and those with disabilities Design of facility ➢ should reflect specific treatment requirements, including triage, isolation or quarantine To be expanded ➢ Construction Stage Clearing of Impacts on natural ➢ vegetation and trees; habitats, ecological Construction resources and biodiversity activities near ecologically sensitive areas/spots General construction - Impacts on soils and ➢ activities Foundation groundwater; excavation; borehole - Geological risks digging General construction - Resource efficiency ➢ activities issues, including raw materials, water and energy use; - Materials supply General construction - Construction solid ➢ activities – general waste; pollution - Construction management wastewater; - Nosie; - Vibration; - Dust; - Air emissions from construction equipment General construction Fuel, oils, lubricant ➢ activities – hazardous waste management General construction activities – Labor issues General construction activities – Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) General construction activities – traffic and road safety General construction activities – security personnel General construction Acquisition of land activities – land and and assets asset General construction GBV/SEA issues activities General construction Cultural heritage Chance-finds procedure activities – cultural heritage General construction activities – emergency preparedness and response Construction activities related to onsite waste management facilities, including temporary storage, incinerator, sewerage system and wastewater treatment works Construction activities related to demolition of existing structures or facilities (if needed) To be expanded Operational Stage General RCMC and General wastes, road infrastructure wastewater and air operation – emissions Environment General RCMC and - Physical hazards road infrastructure - Electrical and operation – OHS explosive hazards issues - Fire - Chemical use - Road safety - Ergonomic hazard; RCMC and road infrastructure operation – Labor issue To be expanded - • Annex 7: ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN CHECKLIST ENVIRONMENTAL /SOCIAL SCREENING Will the site Activity Status Additional references activity A. Building rehabilitation [ ] Yes [ ] No See Section B below include/involve B. New construction [ ] Yes [ ] No See Section B below any of the C. Individual wastewater treatment system [ ] Yes [ ] No See Section C below following: D. Historic building(s) and districts [ ] Yes [ ] No See Section D below E. Acquisition of land or loss of assets19 [ ] Yes [ ] No See Section E below 20 F. Hazardous or toxic materials [ ] Yes [ ] No See Section F below G. Impacts on forests and/or protected areas [ ] Yes [ ] No See Section G below H. Handling / management of medical waste [ ] Yes [ ] No See Section H below I. Traffic and Pedestrian Safety [ ] Yes [ ] No See Section I below Labor Conditions and OHS [ ] Yes [ ] No See Section J below Occupational Health and Safety of Workers [ ] Yes [ ] No See Section K below Community outreach and GRM [ ] Yes [ ] No See Section L below Community health and safety [ ] Yes [ ] No See Section M below ACTIVITY PARAMETER MITIGATION MEASURES CHECKLIST A. General Notification and (a) The local construction and environment inspectorates and communities have been notified of Conditions Worker Safety upcoming activities (b) The public has been notified of the works through appropriate notification in the media and/or at publicly accessible sites (including the site of the works) (c) All legally required permits have been acquired for construction and/or rehabilitation (d) All work will be carried out in a safe and disciplined manner designed to minimize impacts on neighboring residents and environment. (e) Workers will comply with international good practice (always hardhats, as needed masks and safety glasses, harnesses and safety boots) (f) Appropriate signposting of the sites will inform workers of key rules and regulations to follow. B. General Air Quality (a) During interior demolition use debris-chutes above the first floor 19 The project will support construction of new buildings only when the construction will not result in the taking of land resulting in: involuntary land acquisition or displacement of third parties using land; loss of assets or access to assets; or loss of income sources or means of livelihood, whether or not the affected persons must move to another location. Investors will be required to have landownership title as well as has to prove the land at the moment of subprojects application is not occupied or used even illegally. 20 Toxic / hazardous material includes and is not limited to asbestos, toxic paints, removal of lead paint, etc. Rehabilitation (b) Keep demolition debris in controlled area and spray with water mist to reduce debris dust and /or (c) Suppress dust during pneumatic drilling/wall destruction by ongoing water spraying and/or installing Construction dust screen enclosures at site Activities (d) Keep surrounding environment (sidewalks, roads) free of debris to minimize dust (e) There will be no open burning of construction / waste material at the site (f) There will be no excessive idling of construction vehicles at sites Noise (a) Construction noise will be limited to restricted times agreed to in the permit (b) During operations the engine covers of generators, air compressors and other powered mechanical equipment should be closed, and equipment placed as far away from residential areas as possible Water Quality (a) The site will establish appropriate erosion and sediment control measures such as e.g., hay bales and / or silt fences to prevent sediment from moving off site and causing excessive turbidity in nearby streams and rivers. Waste management (a) Waste collection and disposal pathways and sites will be identified for all major waste types expected from demolition and construction activities. (b) Mineral construction and demolition wastes will be separated from general refuse, organic, liquid and chemical wastes by on-site sorting and stored in appropriate containers. (c) Construction waste will be collected and disposed properly by licensed collectors (d) The records of waste disposal will be maintained as proof for proper management as designed. (e) Whenever feasible the contractor will reuse and recycle appropriate and viable materials (except asbestos) C. Individual Water Quality (a) The approach to handling sanitary wastes and wastewater from building sites (installation or wastewater reconstruction) must be approved by the local authorities treatment system (b) Before being discharged into receiving waters, effluents from individual wastewater systems must be treated in order to meet the minimal quality criteria set out by national guidelines on effluent quality and wastewater treatment (c) Monitoring of new wastewater systems (before/after) will be carried out D. Historic Cultural Heritage (a) If the building is a designated historic structure, very close to such a structure, or located in a building(s) designated historic district, notify and obtain approval/permits from local authorities and address all construction activities in line with local and national legislation (b) Ensure that provisions are put in place so that artifacts or other possible “chance finds” encountered in excavation or construction are noted, officials contacted, and works activities delayed or modified to account for such finds. E. Acquisition of (a) If the activity will result in the taking of land resulting in: involuntary land acquisition or land or loss of Activity will not displacement of third parties using land; loss of assets or access to assets; or loss of income sources assets eligible or means of livelihood, whether or not the affected persons must move to another location it will not be financed. (b) F. Toxic Asbestos management (a) If asbestos is located on the project site, mark clearly as hazardous material Materials (b) When possible, the asbestos will be appropriately contained and sealed to minimize exposure (c) The asbestos prior to removal (if removal is necessary) will be treated with a wetting agent to minimize asbestos dust (d) Asbestos will be handled and disposed by skilled & experienced professionals (e) If asbestos material is be stored temporarily, the wastes should be securely enclosed inside closed containments and marked appropriately (f) The removed asbestos will not be reused Toxic / hazardous waste (a) Temporarily storage on site of all hazardous or toxic substances will be in safe containers labeled management with details of composition, properties and handling information (b) The containers of hazardous substances should be placed in an leak-proof container to prevent spillage and leaching (c) The wastes are transported by specially licensed carriers and disposed in a licensed facility. (d) Paints with toxic ingredients or solvents or lead-based paints will not be used G. Affects Protection (a) All recognized natural habitats and protected areas in the immediate vicinity of the activity will not forests and/or be damaged or exploited, all staff will be strictly prohibited from hunting, foraging, logging or other protected areas damaging activities. (b) For large trees in the vicinity of the activity, mark and cordon off with a fence large tress and protect root system and avoid any damage to the trees (c) Adjacent wetlands and streams will be protected, from construction site run-off, with appropriate erosion and sediment control feature to include by not limited to hay bales, silt fences (d) There will be no unlicensed borrow pits, quarries or waste dumps in adjacent areas, especially not in protected areas. H. Disposal of Infrastructure for (a) In compliance with national regulations the contractor will insure that newly constructed and/or medical waste medical waste rehabilitated health care facilities include sufficient infrastructure for medical waste handling and management disposal; this includes and not limited to: ▪ Special facilities for segregated healthcare waste (including soiled instruments “sharps”, and human tissue or fluids) from other waste disposal; and ▪ Appropriate storage facilities for medical waste are in place; and ▪ If the activity includes facility-based treatment, appropriate disposal options are in place and operational I Traffic and Direct or indirect (b) In compliance with national regulations the contractor will insure that the construction site is Pedestrian Safety hazards to public traffic properly secured and construction related traffic regulated. This includes but is not limited to and pedestrians ▪ Signposting, warning signs, barriers and traffic diversions: site will be clearly visible and the public by construction activity warned of all potential hazards ▪ Traffic management system and staff training, especially for site access and near-site heavy traffic. Provision of safe passages and crossings for pedestrians where construction traffic interferes. ▪ Adjustment of working hours to local traffic patterns, e.g., avoiding major transport activities during rush hours or times of livestock movement ▪ Active traffic management by trained and visible staff at the site, if required for safe and convenient passage for the public. ▪ Ensuring safe and continuous access to office facilities, shops and residences during renovation activities, if the buildings stay open for the public. J. Labor Child and Forced Labour relations: The workers involved are considered to be the contractor's labor force and therefore Conditions Labor, Working the following requirements must be met: conditions, Worker - Child labor (children under 18 years of age) to perform any type of work at the facility is completely GRM prohibited - Attraction of community members as public works within "khashars" is prohibited - The contractor signs contract with each worker, which will have rights and obligations with observance of labor norms, that is • 8-hour working day, and if it exceeds the set time, take into account extra-time with appropriate payment • 40-hour work week • 1 hour for lunch - The Contractor shall sign with each worker a code of conduct consistent with international practice which should be followed, otherwise dismissal of workers and collection of proportionate financial penalties are possible - Raise workers' awareness of the general principles of communication management with the local population - Organize access of workers to toilets and areas for hand washing, which should be provided with hot and cold water, soap and a hand dryer in sufficient volume - Develop a system for workers grievance redress. Living conditions: Given that planned work is short-term, unskilled workers should, whenever possible, be recruited from local communities, and women should be recruited to do light work. If local workers will be involved in the work, then there is no need to provide jobs for temporary residence, but there is need to provide them with adequate conditions (sleeping places, kitchen, showers, toilets, etc.). If workers from other regions or cities and villages who do not have their homes in the place of repair work will be involved in the work, then the contractor must provide them with housing. Housing must be provided with the following conditions: - Bedrooms with beds; - Kitchens with the ability to cook food, store food; - Sanitary conditions (shower or bath, toilet, place where clothes can be washed); - In the cold season - heating; (c) - Central power supply. K. Occupational Covid prevention Health protection: Health and measures, safety - At the construction site, it is necessary to have a medical first aid kit for persons who have been Safety of measures injured. Workers - Daily measurement of the temperature of employees before the start of work on the construction site. - Regular activities with all employees at the construction site regarding compliance with the requirements for COVID-19 prevention; Safety of employees: -Provide safety training prior to commencement of each type of work and regularly check safety compliance. - Provide special clothing (masks, gloves and safety glasses, for repair work also helmets and protective shoes), personal protective equipment, tools, materials; - Provide necessary equipment for high-altitude works (temporary fences, safety belts and ropes, etc.) L. Community Public relations and The contractor will appoint one of his employees as a contact person who is responsible for Outreach Grievance Redress communication with the local community, as well as for receiving complaints / complaints from the Mechanism local community. The contractor is obliged to consult with local communities to resolve conflict situations between interested parties, including between workers and local communities. Inform the nearby population about the repair schedule. Limit construction work at night. (d) Provide a Grievance Redress Mechanism for stakeholders and communicate information to them. M. ACM issues ACM hazards (e) Prepare, consult and disclose Asbestos Management plan if any ACM revealed Annex 8: TEMPLATE CODE OF CONDUCT Each employee including trainee or volunteer of a Contractor who have interaction with the Project must sign this “Code of Conduct.” In this Code, “Contractor" shall mean and apply to the contractor, its employees, sub - contractor, officers, agents, representative or those contracted through the Contractor to perform services authorized by the contract. The contractor agrees to adhere to this Code of Conduct when providing services to this project. The Code of Conduct is in addition to all other contract requirements, policies, rules and regulations governing delivery of services. The purpose of the code is to protect vulnerable people from abuse, neglect, maltreatment and exploitation. It clarifies expectation of conduct of the parties and their employees, which includes administrative staff, care staff, support services staff and any others when interacting with the project. The Contractor shall not by acting, failing to act, encouragement to engage in, or failure to deter from will cause any person to be subject to physical or mental abuse, sexual abuse or sexual exploitation, neglect, exploitation, or maltreatment. Contractor understands and acknowledges that failure to comply with this Code of Conduct may result in corrective action, probation, suspension, and/or termination of contract. Minimum requirements for the Code of Conduct should be defined, taking into account the issues, impacts and mitigating measures identified in • Site-specific ESF instruments such as ESIA / ESMP • Permit/approval conditions • required standards, including World Bank Group EHS Guidelines • National legal and/or regulatory requirements and standards (where these are higher than the WBG EHS Guidelines) • Relevant standards e.g. worker accommodation Processes and standards relevant sector standards, e.g. worker accommodation • Grievance redress mechanisms. The types of issues identified could include risks related to: labor influx, spread of communicable diseases, sexual harassment, gender-based violence, illegal behavior and crime, and maintenance of a safe environment, etc. Code of conduct This Code of Conduct identifies the behavior that we require from all Contractor’s Personnel. We/I are/am [enter name of Contractor, sub-contractor, employee etc.]. We/I have signed a contract with [enter name of Employer] for [enter description of the Works]. These Works will be carried out at [enter the Site and other locations where the Works will be carried out]. I [personnel name], acknowledge that adhering to environmental, social, health and safety (ESHS) standards, following the project’s occupational health and safety (OHS) requirements, and preventing Gender Based Violence (GBV), including sexual exploitation and abuse (SEA), and sexual harassment (SH) at the workplace, is important in and outside the context of this project, as further set out in this Code of Conduct. As such, we acknowledge this Code of Conduct identifies the behavior that is expected of all staff. Our workplace is an environment where unsafe, offensive, abusive or violent behavior will not be tolerated and where all persons should feel comfortable raising issues or concerns without fear of retaliation. For the purpose of this Code of Conduct, it is important to note that GBV is an umbrella term for any harmful act that is perpetrated against a person’s will and that is based on socially ascribed (that is, gender) differences between male and female individuals. GBV includes acts that inflict physical, 199 mental, or sexual harm or suffering; threats of such acts; and coercion and other deprivations of liberty, whether occurring in public or in private life. GBV includes the following concepts: ▪ Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (SEA): Sexual exploitation is defined as any actual or attempted abuse of a position of vulnerability, differential power, or trust for sexual purposes, including but not limited to, profiting monetarily, socially or politically from the sexual exploitation of another. Sexual abuse is defined as the actual or threatened physical intrusion of a sexual nature, whether by force or under unequal or coercive conditions. ▪ Sexual harassment (SH): occurs between personnel and staff and means any unwelcome sexual advance, request for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. A violation to this Code of Conduct, including failure to follow ESHS and OHS standards, or engaging in activities constituting GBV including SEA/SH—be it on the workplace, work sites, work site surroundings, at workers’ camps, or the surrounding communities—, constitute acts of serious misconduct, which contravenes the terms of employment, and are therefore grounds for disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment. Acts that may violate the laws of Republic of Tajikistan will be additionally referred to the corresponding legal authorities, including for potential prosecution under the Criminal Code. Commitments under this Code of Conduct I agree that while working on the project I shall: General: 1. carry out my duties competently and diligently. 2. comply with this Code of Conduct and all applicable laws, regulations and other requirements, including requirements to protect the health, safety and well-being of other Project staff, workers, and any other person. Regarding ESHS and OHS 3. Attend and actively partake in training courses related to ESHS and OHS as requested by my employer. 4. Always wear my personal protective equipment (PPE) when at the work site or engaged in project related activities. 5. Implement the OHS Management Plan. 6. Adhere to a zero-alcohol policy during work activities, and refrain from the use of narcotics or other substances which can impair faculties. 7. Report work situations that are not safe or healthy and remove myself from a work situation which I reasonably believe presents an imminent and serious danger to my life or health. Regarding equality of opportunity and treatment 8. Treat women, children (persons under the age of 18), and men with respect regardless of race, color, language, religion, political or other opinion, national, ethnic or social origin, property, disability, birth or other status. Regarding discrimination and violence based on gender 9. Not use language or behavior towards women, children or men that is inappropriate, harassing, abusive, sexually provocative, demeaning or culturally inappropriate. 10. Not engage in SEA with project beneficiaries and members of the surrounding communities. 11. Not engage in sexual harassment with other project personnel and staff —for instance, comments 200 on the appearance of another worker (either positive or negative) and sexual desirability. making unwelcome sexual advances, looking somebody up and down; kissing, howling or smacking sounds; hanging around somebody; whistling and catcalls; and offering or giving personal gifts. 12. Not engage in sexual favors —for instance, making promises of favorable treatment (e.g. promotion), threats of unfavorable treatment (e.g. loss of job) or payments in kind or in cash, dependent on sexual acts—or other forms of humiliating, degrading or exploitative behavior. 13. Unless there is the full consent21 by all parties involved, not have sexual interactions with members of the surrounding communities or work colleagues. This includes relationships involving the withholding or promise of actual provision of benefit (monetary or non-monetary) to community members in exchange for sex (including prostitution). Such sexual activity is considered “n on- consensual” within the scope of this Code. Regarding children under the age of 18 14. Not engage in any form of sexual contact or activity with children under the age of 18 —including grooming or contact through digital media. Mistaken belief regarding the age of a child or his/her consent is not a defense or excuse. 15. Bring to the attention of my manager the presence of any children on the construction site or engaged in hazardous activities. 16. Wherever possible, ensure that another adult is present when working in the proximity of children. 17. Not invite unaccompanied children unrelated to my family into my home, unless they are at immediate risk of injury or in physical danger. 18. Not use any computers, mobile phones, video and digital cameras or any other medium to exploit or harass children or to access child pornography. 19. Refrain from hiring children below the minimum age of 18. 20. Comply with all relevant local legislation, including labor laws in relation to child labor. 21. When photographing or filming a child for work related purposes, I must: a) Before photographing or filming a child, assess and endeavor to comply with local traditions or restrictions for reproducing personal images. b) Before photographing or filming a child, obtain informed consent from the child and a parent or guardian of the child. As part of this I must explain how the photograph or film will be used. c) Ensure photographs, films, videos and DVDs present children in a dignified and respectful manner and not in a vulnerable or submissive way. Children should be adequately clothed and not in poses that could be sexually suggestive. d) Ensure images are honest representations of the context and the facts. e) Ensure file labels do not reveal identifying information about a child when sending images electronically. Disciplinary measures The [specify contractor name] shall be responsible for making decisions on the specific sanctions to be imposed on workers for violations to this Code of Conduct. I understand that if I breach this Code of Conduct, the [contractor name] will take disciplinary action according to the seriousness of the offense 21Consent is defined as the informed choice underlying an individual’s free and voluntary intention, acceptance or agreement to do something. Consent must be informed, based on a clear appreciation and understanding of the facts, implications and future consequences of an action. The individual also must be aware of and have the power to exercise the right to refuse to engage in an action and/or to not be coerced (i.e., by financial considerations, force or threats). No consent can be found when such acceptance or agreement is obtained using threats, force or other forms of coercion, abduction, fraud, deception, or misrepresentation. For the purpose of this Code of Conduct, consent cannot be given by children under the age of 18, even if national legislation introduces a lower age. Mistaken belief regarding the age of the child and consent from the child is not a defense. 201 which could include: • verbal notification (For Public Officers)/ warning for staff employed by the [specify contractor name] • written notification (For Public Officers)/ warning for staff employed by the [specify contractor name] • termination of employment Infringements sanctioned with verbal notification Those behaviors that do not cause relevant risks to the [specify contractor name], other workers and/or its relationship with the communities. Verbal warnings may involve a reminder of the Code of Conduct and its applicability. Infringements sanctioned with written notification Those behaviors that cause minor risk to the [specify contractor name], other workers and/or its relationship with the communities and/or the environment. Infringements sanctioned with termination of employment Those behaviors that cause substantive risks to the [specify contractor name], other workers and/or its relationship with the communities and/or the environment, or behaviors that constitute serious misconduct in accordance with this Code of Conduct. In such cases, the termination of employment may be accompanied by a referral to the corresponding legal authorities. Cases of SEA or SH will always be considered serious misconduct. Recurrent offences to the Code of Conduct will also be considered serious misconduct. Termination of employment shall be carried out in accordance with the Labor Code of The Republic of Tajikistan. I understand that it is my responsibility to ensure that the environmental, social, health and safety standards are met; that I will adhere to the occupational health and safety management plan; and, that I will avoid actions or behaviors that could be construed as GBV, including SEA and SH. Any such actions will be a breach of this Code of Conduct. I do hereby acknowledge that I have read the foregoing Code of Conduct, agree to comply with the standards contained herein, and understand my roles and responsibilities to prevent and respond to ESHS, OHS, and GBV issues. I understand that any action inconsistent with this Code of Conduct or failure to act, may result in disciplinary action. Staff Signature: Printed Name: Title: Date: 202 ANNEX 9. Exclusion List of Activities Type of Activity 1. Any activities involving conversion of natural habitats/ecologically sensitive areas and/or damaging to national monuments, non-replicable cultural properties 2. Production or trade in any product or activity deemed illegal under host country laws or regulations or international conventions and agreements. 3. Production or trade in alcoholic beverages including country made liquor. 4. Gambling, casinos and equivalent enterprises. 4. Trade in wildlife or wildlife products regulated under Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) 5. Production or trade in radioactive materials. 6. Production or trade in or use of unbounded asbestos fibers 7. Purchase of logging equipment for use in cutting forest. 8. Production or trade in pharmaceuticals subject to international phase outs or bans. 9. Production or trade in pesticides/herbicides subject to international phase outs or bans. 10. Fishing in the marine environment using electric shocks and explosive materials. 11. Goat/cattle rearing dependent on forest resources 12. Production or activities involving harmful or exploitative forms of forced labor harmful child labor 13. Commercial logging operations for use in primary tropical moist forest 14. Production or trade in products containing Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). 15. Production or trade in ozone depleting substances subject to international phase out. 16. Production or trade in wood or other forestry products from unmanaged forests. 17. Production, trade, storage, or transport of significant volumes of hazardous chemicals, or commercial scale usage of hazardous chemicals. 18. Production or trade in any product or activity deemed illegal under host country laws or regulations or international conventions and agreements. 19. Production or trade or processing of products involving tobacco 20. Production or trade or use or storage of dyeing chemicals and dye intermediaries 21. Production or storage or packaging of inflammable material 22. Any activities requiring industrial production processes requiring regulatory clearances from Pollution Control Boards 203 ANNEX 10. CHANCE FIND PROCEDURES OF PHYSICAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES (Ref: The World Bank Environmental and Social standards, ESS8: Cultural Heritage) Works could impact sites of social, sacred, religious, or heritage value. “Chance find” procedures would apply when those sites are identified during the design phase or during the actual construction period and the related activity will not be eligible for financing under the project. (1) Cultural property includes monuments, structures, works of art, or sites of significant points of view, and are defined as sites and structures having archaeological, historical, architectural, or religious significance, and natural sites with cultural values. This includes cemeteries, graveyards and graves. (2) The list of negative subproject attributes which would make a subproject ineligible for support includes any activity that would adversely impact cultural property. (3) In the event of finding of properties of cultural value during construction, the following procedures for identification, protection from theft, and treatment of discovered artifacts should be followed and included in standard bidding document. (a) Stop the construction activities around the chance find; (b) Delineate the discovered site or area; (c) Secure the site to prevent any damage or loss of removable objects. (d) Notify the supervisory Engineer who in turn will notify the responsible local authorities; (e) Responsible local authorities and the relevant Ministry would oversee protecting and preserving the site before deciding on subsequent appropriate procedures. (f) Decisions on how to handle the finding shall be taken by the responsible authorities and the relevant Ministry. This could include changes in the layout (such as when finding an irremovable remain of cultural or archeological importance), conservation, restoration and salvage. (g) Implementation of the authority decision concerning the management of the finding shall be communicated in writing by the relevant Ministry. (h) Construction work could resume only after permission is given from the responsible local authorities and the relevant Ministry concerning safeguard of the heritage. (4) These procedures must be referred to as standard provisions in construction contracts. During project supervision, the Site Engineer shall monitor the above regulations relating to the treatment of any chance find encountered. Relevant findings will be recorded in World Bank Supervision Reports and Implementation Completion Reports will assess the overall effectiveness of the project’s cultural property mitigation, management, and activities, as appropriate. 204