The World Bank El Salvador Transport And Resilience Infrastructure Project (P178720) Appraisal Environmental and Social Review Summary Appraisal Stage (ESRS Appraisal Stage) Public Disclosure Date Prepared/Updated: 08/17/2023 | Report No: ESRSA02945 Aug 25, 2023 Page 1 of 20 The World Bank El Salvador Transport And Resilience Infrastructure Project (P178720) I. BASIC INFORMATION A. Basic Operation Data Operation ID Product Operation Acronym Approval Fiscal Year P178720 Investment Project Financing (IPF) ESTRIP 2024 Operation Name El Salvador Transport and Resilience Infrastructure Project Country/Region Code Beneficiary country/countries Region Practice Area (Lead) (borrower, recipient) El Salvador El Salvador LATIN AMERICA AND Transport CARIBBEAN Borrower(s) Implementing Agency(ies) Estimated Appraisal Date Estimated Board Date Republic of El MInistry of Public Works and Transport 24-Jul-2023 12-Oct-2023 Salvador Estimated Decision Total Project Cost Review Date Public Disclosure 20-Jul-2023 150,000,000.00 Proposed Development Objective To (i) improve resilient connectivity in targeted areas of the northern Metropolitan Area of San Salvador, (ii) enhance sustainable national road sector management and (iii) in case of an Eligible Crisis or Emergency, respond promptly and effectively to it. B. Is the operation being prepared in a Situation of Urgent Need of Assistance or Capacity Constraints, as per Bank IPF Policy, para. 12? No C. Summary Description of Proposed Project Activities The proposed El Salvador Resilient Transport and Infrastructure Project (the “Project”), requested by the GoES, aims to improve the resilience and efficiency of the important Apopa logistic node. It aims to be a national reference project for incorporating climate change, road safety, citizen engagement and gender considerations into the development of economic corridors. In addition, it aims to support the MOPTS´s strategic planning by preparing a pipeline of prioritized projects for sustainable and resilient road interventions in the future. The Project will also support the institutional strengthening of the institution in key areas such as road asset management, road safety, gender, and private-capital Aug 25, 2023 Page 2 of 20 The World Bank El Salvador Transport And Resilience Infrastructure Project (P178720) mobilization in the road sector. The scope of the proposed operation, which has been reduced since the concept ESRS was prepared, now focuses on supporting the development of a key logistics node and key Technical Assistance work. These changes reflect the GoES development priorities and a more conservative lending envelope. Therefore, at Appraisal, the Project consists of three components: Component 1: Apopa´s connectivity improvement (140 MUS$). This Component seeks to strengthen the corridor infrastructure in Apopa by building a bypass and implement complementary road safety and resilient connectivity interventions in the area. It will include: 1. Apopa bypass construction works. 2. Design and implementation of complementary works on the access roads to the bypass and its surroundings, and on the current section of road that crosses the town of Apopa. Improvements will include those related to road safety, climate resilience, inclusiveness, and connectivity with public transport, that will benefit the most vulnerable users, especially women and persons with disabilities. They will include physical interventions such as lighting, signage, speed control, bus stops, and pedestrian infrastructure. The identification and design of these complementary interventions will be determined through a consultation process with local communities. 3. Studies in anticipation of possible future developments such as truck service station, charging stations for electric vehicles, and resting areas. 4. Supervision contracts of civil works. Component 2: Institutional Capacity Building for a Climate-resilient, Safe and Inclusive Road Infrastructure (10 MUS$). This component will support capacity building activities in different areas to strengthen the GoES institutions in the management of the national road network. It will include two sub- components. Subcomponent 2.1: Project Management. This subcomponent will finance the operating expenses and consultant contracts of the Project Implementation Unit (PIU), including the Environmental, Social and OHS specialists. This will include financial audits and necessary trainings of the PIU. Subcomponent 2.2: Institutional Capacity Strengthening. This subcomponent will include the following activities: 1. Design studies of sustainable and resilient road projects. This activity aims to prepare the necessary studies and designs to have a portfolio of resilient and Public Disclosure sustainable infrastructure projects ready for implementation. This includes projects to improve connectivity and resilience of transport infrastructure in economic corridors and rural areas. These studies will be informed by considerations of inclusion and accessibility needs of the most vulnerable populations, especially low-income women and persons with disabilities, resilient design, and road safety, which will be developed in the other activities of the sub- component. Consultations will be carried out with different groups of the population. 2. Support resilient road infrastructure planning. This activity will include technical assistance aimed at strengthening MOPT's capacity for the climate resilience design and upgrade of road infrastructure, such as (i) further development and improvement of MOPT's manuals for incorporating resilience measures into road designs, including nature-based solutions, (ii) the upgrade of the MOPT/FOVIAL´s road asset management system to incorporate disaster risk management, (iii) the development of disaster risk management tools to cross-reference information on the typology and magnitude of threats, level of exposure of road infrastructure, and vulnerability of the population, in strategic road infrastructure, and (iv) studies on the incorporation of community participation and gender considerations of disaster risk management. 3. Institutional and capacity building in road safety: The Vice-Ministry of Transport under the MOPT is in charge of the country´s Road Safety agenda. This activity will support the Vice-Ministry´s actions for road safety such as (i) developing safe road design manuals, (ii) training for cross-sectoral coordination between institutional (Minist ry of Health, police, municipalities, MOPT) and private partners, (iii) speed management plan, among other possibilities to be evaluated, (iv) finance safety audits and (v) implementation of a digital tool (software) for registering road accidents, which provides information for better decision-making. 4. Support to mobilize private capital for road developments. This activity will complement the Bank´s ongoing support to the GoES to improve its Public Private Partnerships (PPP) law, aiming to facilitate private sector participation and financing in PPP projects. In particular, the activity will aim to explore the possibility of utilizing private financing for the rehabilitation and maintenance of the road network through the introduction of Performance-Based Contracts (PBCs). In addition, it will look for opportunities to introduce risk-sharing in contracts for the future operation (and/or associated services) of the Apopa bypass. Last, the activity will identify Aug 25, 2023 Page 3 of 20 The World Bank El Salvador Transport And Resilience Infrastructure Project (P178720) strategies to adapt the regulatory framework to enhance the GoES’s access to capital markets through FOVIAL. These actions will be addressed through a consultancy that will deliver an action plan to facilitate the mobilization of private capital in the road sector. 5. Promotion of gender equality in the road sector. The Project will support the implementation of a Gender Action Plan (GAP) that will set the activities, objectives and metrics to be applied in the Project. The GAP will comprise two blocks of activities: - Specialized training and internships for women, covering: (i) technical certified training program specialized in heavy machinery and construction; and (ii) women engineering student’s paid internship at the MOPT or designated agencies. - Inclusive road design manual, to consider women's specific needs and mobility patterns in the design of road improvements. 6. Support the use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems, or drones, for road network monitoring and natural hazard risk prevention. This activity will support the definition and implementation of a drone pilot project for road network monitoring and/or disaster risk management. Component 3: Contingency Emergency Response Component (CERC) (initial zero-dollar allocation). This Component allows the GoES to access resources for eligible expenditures in the event of an Eligible Crisis or Emergency to provide an immediate and effective response to said Eligible Crisis or Emergency. Given that El Salvador is a country highly vulnerable to natural hazards and climate change phenomena, this component will enable the GoES to respond quickly to such events. Initially, the Component will have a zero-dollar allocation. However, a reallocation of funds would be undertaken in the event of an eligible crisis or emergency. D. Environmental and Social Overview D.1 Overview of Environmental and Social Project Settings Under Component 1, the Apopa Bypass subproject (design and construction of the Apopa Bypass and execution of complementary works on the access roads to the bypass and surroundings) will be implemented in the Apopa Public Disclosure municipality located 12 km north of central San Salvador in the San Salvador Department. The bypass is formed by the intersection of the CA04N (Carretera Troncal de Norte or North Trunk Highway in English) with the SAL38 highway (La carretera de Oro or Gold Highway in English). Component 2 (TA) and Component 3 (CERC) on the other hand, will have a national scope across the territory of El Salvador, with diverse interventions in urban, peri-urban, and rural contexts. At Appraisal, only the scope and location of the Apopa Bypass (Component 1 i) is clearly defined; the exact scope and location of other project activities (studies for the preparation for future projects) will be identified and agreed with the client during implementation. The Apopa Bypass will cross agricultural lands and is located outside areas of biological significance or legally established areas of natural or cultural value. The geology of the project area may be problematic, as there are steep slopes of more than 30% in some areas. The bypass will cross Rio Las Canas with a 190m bridge. Annual rainfall varies between 1,500 and 2,000 mm. Other project design challenges are related to geology, seismic, geotechnical, hydrological/hydraulic, and volcanic risks. The construction of the bypass will have direct and indirect impacts on the environmental and socioeconomic fabric of Apopa. The town is located in the metropolitan area of San Salvador and is a densely populated urban area with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial zones. The area faces several environmental and social challenges: Apopa residents experience issues related to air and water pollution due to industrial activities and poor waste management practices. The town is also susceptible to natural hazards such as flooding, given its proximity to rivers and inadequate and poorly maintained drainage infrastructure. Socioeconomically, Apopa is characterized by a diverse population, including low-income households and marginalized communities. Poverty rates in the area are relatively high, and access to basic services like education, healthcare, and sanitation may be limited for some residents. Unemployment Aug 25, 2023 Page 4 of 20 The World Bank El Salvador Transport And Resilience Infrastructure Project (P178720) and underemployment are prevalent, leading to social and economic disparities within the town. Community engagement and social cohesion play important roles in Apopa. Local organizations and community initiatives are active in promoting social interaction, addressing issues, and advocating for better living conditions, many of them religious groups. Project activities beyond the bypass and associated interventions will have a national scope. El Salvador has a diverse landscape with coastal zones leading to steep topography, with many slopes with inclinations above 30 degrees, short watersheds, and one major river, the Lempa. The country is divided into three distinct geographical regions: the southern coastal belt, the central valley and plateaus, and the northern mountains. Project activities will be set in a context of multiple environmental risks: El Salvador is considered one of the most vulnerable countries to disaster risk globally, resulting in fatalities and frequent interruption of public services. The country is among the most affected by weather-related events and other hazards, incurring annual losses of around 2.5 percent of GDP. It also ranks second highest for risk exposure to two or more hazards, and highest for the total population at a relatively high risk of mortality from such hazards. Projections for the 2040-2059 period indicate there will be an increase in annual maximum 5-day rainfall by 18.75 mm, as well as in mean annual temperature by 1.64°C. The annual precipitation, on the other hand, will decrease by 65.33mm in the same period. The country’s geography, soil formation, climate, and land use are the main drivers of disaster risks, threatening 88.7 percent of its territory, and 95.4 percent of its population. Every year, the heavy rainfall season (from May to October) causes landslides, floods, and river overflows leading to severe damage to critical infrastructure subsequently interrupting public services. Recently, the Metropolitan Area of San Salvador (MASS), where 36.4 percent of the population and 70 percent of public and private infrastructure in concentrated, has been hit by events such as Tropical Storms Amanda in May 2020 and Bonnie in July 2022, leading to fatalities and Public Disclosure significant material losses. Approximately 60 percent of the population resides in urban areas and the remaining 40 percent in rural areas; poverty is distributed across rural and urban settings, with high rates found in both highly urbanized municipalities close to San Salvador (such as Apopa), as well as in more remote municipalities in the northern stretches of Cabañas, San Miguel, Morazán and La Unión. It is estimated that close to 10% of the population lives with one or several disabilities. Vulnerable populations also live in a context of high informality; with nearly three of four jobs are in the informal sector, and close to 17% of young people working as unpaid family members. Crime and violence had a critical impact in the country’s development during the past decade, with the consolidation of gangs and high insecurity. Although the last three years have seen a significant decline in murder rates (the highest in the world half a decade ago), crime and violence remain entrenched in certain areas, which has been a factor for migration (together with lack of jobs and disaster risk), both internal and cross-border. The GoES’s measures to control violence have led to significant reductions in crime levels, albeit with criticism from some civil society organizations. The country remains under a state of exception since March 2022, with ample military presence and recurrent interventions in designated dangerous neighborhoods. Minority groups and organizations argue that civil liberties are restricted while open participation and transparency are constrained. Indigenous People (IPs), as defined by ESS7, are present in the country, but not in the Apopa area. El Salvador has the smallest indigenous population in Latin America in absolute numbers, approximately 15,000 people, or 0.2% of the population according to the 2007 census. However, the official recognition of Indigenous People did not occur until 2014, with the ratification of amendments to Article 63 of the Constitution to include the recognition of indigenous peoples and the need to maintain and develop their ethnic and cultural identities. Despite the passage of these amendments, no official public policies or laws have been enacted in order to progress implementation. El Salvador has yet to ratify the International Labor Organization's 1989 Indigenous and Tribal Peoples Convention No. 169. Aug 25, 2023 Page 5 of 20 The World Bank El Salvador Transport And Resilience Infrastructure Project (P178720) D.2 Overview of Borrower’s Institutional Capacity for Managing Environmental and Social Risks and Impacts The project will be implemented by the Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT), who will establish a Project Implementation Unit (PIU) within the Directorate of Planning and Public Works (DPOP) its main planning and implementation division for large scale infrastructure projects. DPOP has a dedicated environmental and social (E&S) unit, currently with 11 full time staff and 7 consultants who are tasked with the preparation and coordination of similar magnitude projects, several of which are financed by multilateral organizations (such as the IDB, CABEI and CAF). For activities under Components 1 and 2, the PIU in DPOP will lead coordinating closely with the Directorate of Climate Change Adaptation and Risk Management (DACGER), MOPT’s division in charge of risk mitigation and natural hazard management works. In addition, the Fondo de Vialidad (FOVIAL), an independent trust fund affiliated with the MOPT, with a national mandate to perform routine and regular maintenance of roads, bridges, and crosswalks and works, will participate in technical assistance activities foreseen under Component 2. FOVIAL is also in charge of signage and road safety. DPOP is closely articulated with DACGER and FOVIAL, having worked together in multiple projects. MOPT and FOVIAL have their main offices in San Salvador, with additional MOPT regional offices in different parts of the country. Activities for Components 1 and 2 fall under MOPT’s mandate, who, during implementation of activities under Component 1, will closely coordinate with the local municipalities and community leaders involved in the Apopa intervention area; for activities under Component 2, MOPT will not only coordinate with before mentioned governmental institutions but also with municipalities and communities and, if relevant to the specific activity, Indigenous People´s representatives with regard to the selection criteria for the prioritization of roads to be included in the design studies. Public Disclosure The PIU within DPOP will be responsible for the overall coordination and technical oversight of the project and will ensure compliance with (i) fiduciary management; (ii) reporting requirements and monitoring activities; and (iii) the implementation of the World Bank’s Environmental and Social Framework (ESF), among other activities. Although the team is familiar with using the ESF as the E&S framework for projects financed by Spanish and EU cooperation agencies, this will be MOPT’s first full project under the World Bank’s ESF. In addition, over the past year, E&S technical teams at MOPT-DPOP have actively supported different Bank projects under safeguards and the ESF: as implementing unit for the infrastructure component of the Growing Up and Learning Together project (P171316), and as the coordinating entity in charge of multiple CERCs, including the aforementioned education project as well as the Local Economic and Resilience Project (P169125) and the Growing Up Healthy Together project (P169677). Through these processes, MOPT has prepared several site-specific ESMPs and has hired dedicated E&S staff for these projects. Based on this context and financed under Component 2, the proposed structure for the project’s E&S management as detailed in the ESCP will include, inter alia, one (1) Environmental Specialist, one (1) Social Specialist, and (1) Occupational Health and Safety Specialist, with qualifications and experience satisfactory to the Bank, who shall be contracted or assigned no later than sixty (60) days after the project’s Effective Date and maintained throughout project implementation. The E&S team of specialists would be hired specifically for this project, and will work under the dedicated PIU coordinator, all of them independent from other projects currently implemented by MOPT. The World Bank team will also work with and provide training and technical support to the PIU/MOPT for adequate E&S management, preparation and implementation of E&S instruments; additionally, capacity building during implementation is foreseen and is included in the ESCP. II. SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL (ES) RISKS AND IMPACTS Aug 25, 2023 Page 6 of 20 The World Bank El Salvador Transport And Resilience Infrastructure Project (P178720) A. Environmental and Social Risk Classification (ESRC) Substantial A.1 Environmental Risk Rating Substantial The environmental risk rating is Substantial. The Apopa bypass construction works and access roads (Component 1) will have potential adverse environmental impacts on air, water, biodiversity and habitats, cultural heritage, and soil quality. Impacts are expected to be predictable and mitigated by using known mitigation strategies. Key negative environmental risks and impacts include: i) clearing of the right of way (ROW), and related impacts on vegetation, forest, land and water; ii) slope cutting and stabilization, excavation and drilling, including excavations in river beds; iii) the generation, management and disposal of wastes, including hazardous wastes; iv) nuisance (noise, dust, fumes, vibrations, odors); v) potential impacts to biodiversity, ecosystems, and habitats, as well as cultural heritage; vi) environmental compensation activities, including reforestation; vii) sourcing of materials from quarries or borrow pits and the potential health and safety risks and impacts associated with their exploitation; viii) health and safety risks to project workers and the health and safety risks to surrounding communities; ix) risks to nearby water sources from uncontrolled runoff leading to sedimentation and soil and water contamination from accidental spills; and x) pollution risks and impacts associated with the operation of cement batch plans (if required). Indirect risks and impacts associated with the project may include the potential conversion of habitats and forests for increased agricultural and livestock activity once access to markets is improved. Technical Assistance (TA) under Component 2 will include studies, planning and manuals to support sustainable, resilient and safe roads. Terms of Reference and outputs of TA activities, consultancies, capacity building, and trainings financed under the Project shall be acceptable to the Bank and materially consistent with ESS 1-10. The risk rating is influenced by the fact that this will be the first operation financed by the Bank under the ESF with this counterpart. The project E&S instruments will detail measures to Public Disclosure manage known risks and impacts, including an exclusion list as part of the ESMF. The ESMF will take into account the project’s indirect and cumulative impacts, where applicable. A.2 Social Risk Rating Substantial The social risk rating is Substantial. The project will have positive impacts in Apopa and San Salvador’s metropolitan area; for instance, users of the Apopa Bypass will reduce time and transportation costs, the population in the town of Apopa will benefit in health and safety from the traffic that will be diverted away from its main roads, especially benefitting elderly, children and person with disabilities. Technical assistance foreseen under Component 2 could benefit more isolated and indigenous communities in rural areas, prioritizing their needs and designing critical rural roads. However, there are several social risks to consider, specifically for the activities under Component 1, including among others: (i) labor influx across multiple sites, where the presence of workers from other regions, particularly around construction camps, could lead to impacts on local communities, including SEA/SH risks, especially if project workers do not strictly adhere to their codes of conduct; (ii) permanent resettlement of approximately 70 families across the bypass’s planned route, including titled, untitled and informal inhabitants families, the acquisition of agricultural lands along the stretch where the Bypass will be constructed, and permanent economic displacement of several small businesses; (iii) adverse impacts created by the temporary restrictions in access due to construction works, which could affect both established businesses and informal vendors typically located on the side of the roads; (iv) carrying out partial or selective consultations that could potentially exclude local stakeholders, particularly those living or working in informal conditions; (v) community health and safety risks, especially the increased risk of accidents for the local population as a result of construction works, movement of vehicles and machinery, and also during operation, especially as a result of the increased speeds of vehicles expected after the rehabilitation works have been completed; (vi) risk of child labor, since there is the possibility that community organizations, local Aug 25, 2023 Page 7 of 20 The World Bank El Salvador Transport And Resilience Infrastructure Project (P178720) enterprises and formal contractors could hire underage local workers for some road rehabilitation and/or maintenance activities if no preventive measures are in place; (vii) inappropriate health, safety and security measures to manage waste and debris, due to the magnitude and diversity of potential civil works, particularly for workers; (viii) the potential exclusion of certain vulnerable populations from access to project benefits including jobs, especially for groups whose interests are traditionally underrepresented in civil works, such as women, elders, youth, persons with disabilities, and sexual and gender minorities; and (ix) the context of crime and violence in certain areas of San Salvador remains unpredictable, which could pose a threat to communities and project workers in the Apopa bypass subproject. B. Environment and Social Standards (ESS) that Apply to the Activities Being Considered B.1 Relevance of Environmental and Social Standards ESS1 - Assessment and Management of Environmental and Social Risks and Impacts Relevant This standard is relevant. Activities associated with the design and construction of the Apopa Bypass and associated infrastructure (including access roads and the road through the town of Apopa) under Component 1 will result in adverse environmental and social impacts which are expected to be predictable and mitigated by employing known mitigation strategies. The construction of this infrastructure will generate the following key negative environmental risks and impacts: i) clearing of the right of way (ROW) and related impacts on vegetation, forest, land and water; ii) slope cutting and stabilization, excavation and drilling, including excavations in river beds; iii) the generation, management and disposal of wastes, including hazardous wastes; iv) nuisance (noise, dust, fumes, vibrations, odors); Public Disclosure v) potential impacts on biodiversity, ecosystems, and habitats, as well as cultural heritage; vi) environmental compensation activities, including reforestation; vii) sourcing of materials from quarries or borrow pits and the potential health and safety risks and impacts associated with their exploitation (no blasting is expected); viii) health and safety risks to project workers and the health and safety risks to surrounding communities; ix) risks to nearby water sources from uncontrolled runoff leading to sedimentation and soil and water contamination from accidental spills; and x) pollution risks and impacts associated with the operation of cement batch plans (if required). Other potential E&S risks and impacts include health and safety risks to project workers and neighboring communities; increase in traffic volume, traffic noise and speeds, and associated road safety risks (particularly in areas with the presence of pedestrians and livestock); potential interruption to public services and utilities due to civil works; risks associated with the influx of labor, including risks associated with temporary workers camps; and risks or impacts related to communicable diseases contagion amongst workers and communities. Potential indirect risks and impacts associated with Component 1 may include increased land use change for agricultural and livestock activity once access to markets is improved or other land use changes (including urban sprawl); and increases in wildlife mortality. To address the project’s E&S risks and impacts, the E&S team has proposed a differentiated approach. For the Apopa bypass, in line with MOPT’s practices and national laws, and to inform the technical designs, the Borrower is preparing an Environmental Impact Assessment EIA for the bypass. Once final, this EIA will be submitted to the Ministry for Environment and Natural Resources (MARN) as part of the bypass’ environmental licensing process. Prior to Appraisal, the Borrower has disclosed a draft of this EIA. Considering the gaps identified between El Salvador’s national laws and the ESF, and contextual factors such as capacity and potential project risks, the Bank requested the Borrower to prepare an independent and robust ESIA for the Apopa bypass, which will be developed in line with the ESF and WB Environment, Health and Safety (EHS) General and Specific Guidelines. Accordingly, the Borrower prepared the ToR for the ESIA (approved by the Bank in February 2023), which incorporate cumulative impacts, universal access, and Aug 25, 2023 Page 8 of 20 The World Bank El Salvador Transport And Resilience Infrastructure Project (P178720) climate change considerations, among others. The Borrower has experienced delays in launching the bidding process for the ESIA (including the development of an ESMP and RAP). The EIA developed to national requirements will be used as input for the independent ESIA prepared in line with the Bank-approved ToRs, to ensure that the Apopa Bypass is executed to the highest E&S standards and inform the project design. As per the ESCP, bidding processes for construction works for the Apopa Bypass may only be launched once the Banks approves the independent ESIA. To address the the E&S impacts of other project activities (access roads under C1, TA in Component 2, and the CERC in Component 3), the Borrower drafted and disclosed a Preliminary E&S Risk Assessment. This assessment identified the E&S risks and impacts mentioned above, and confirmed the proposed risk rating for the project. Based on the results of the assessment, the Borrower will prepare an Environmental and Social Management Framework (ESMF) in line with the ESF and the WBG’s Environment, Health and Safety (EHS) Guidelines. The ESMF will be prepared, consulted and disclosed within 90 days of the project effectiveness date, as detailed in the ESCP. The ToR for the ESMF have been prepared and disclosed by the Borrower as an annex to the Preliminary E&S Risk Assessment. The ESMF will include, inter alia: (i) identification of applicable national legislation; (ii) an E&S characterization of the project area, and the identification and evaluation of positive and negative, direct and indirect E&S risks and impacts; (iii) generic E&S mitigation measures in accordance to the mitigation hierarchy; (iv) implementation arrangements (including monitoring, supervision, and reporting) during the design, construction and operational phases; and (v) a budget for E&S related activities and measures. It will provide guidance on remediation works in respect of any environmental liabilities identified during project preparation or implementation. The ESMF will identify and assess the use of primary suppliers of raw materials and natural resource commodities that will service the project, establishing measures consistent with ESS2 and ESS6, where applicable. It will also identify whether any additional studies and/or mitigation measures are required to meet the Bank’s requirements for these activities. For the improvements to Public Disclosure access roads including the introduction of traffic management measures to improve road safety for all kinds of road users, and any other subproject to be identified during implementation, relevant Environmental and Social Management Plans (ESMPs) will be developed by the Borrower in line with the ESMF and national requirements. All ESMPs will be consulted and disclosed before launching the corresponding bidding process and will be included in the bidding documents and subsequent contracts. Based on the ESMP, the selected contractor(s) will develop and implement their own contractor’s ESMP (C-ESMP). The ESMF will develop the table of contents and provide guidelines for the prepartion of the ESMPs and C-ESMPs. No construction works will be executed prior to the approval of the ESMP or C-ESMP, as applicable, as well as applicable permits under national laws. The ESMF will also provide an analysis of social risks and impacts and its mitigation measures, taking in consideration the characterization of groups in the project area who may be affected or benefitted by the project, as defined in the draft SEP. This characterization also identifies vulnerable groups who may be disproportionately affected: (i) elderly; (ii) persons with disabilities (PwD); (iii) female headed households; (iv) children and adolescents; and (v) LGBTI population. The ESMF will develop generic mitigation measures to address the risks and considers opportunities for greater inclusion of vulnerable groups. Some measures are: (i) consultation events in nearby and accessible locations and schedules for the elderly and female headed households; (ii) outreach to community leaders of affected communities; (iii) consultations on project activities, including TA, with Indigenous Peoples (IP) and organizations representing PwD; (iv) inclusion of community and indigenous leaders and citizens throughout project implementation. Subcomponent 2.2 will support studies, planning and manuals to support sustainable, resilient, and safe roads, including the use of drones. For all TA activities, consultancies, and trainings to be financed under the Project, the requirements set out in paragraphs 14–18 of ESS1 will be applicable as relevant and appropriate to the nature of the risks and impacts and incorporated in the ToRs. In addition, these activities, including the resulting ToRs, work plans or other documents and outputs, will be consistent with ESS 1-10, as applicable. Activities implemented by MOPT following the completion of the project that Aug 25, 2023 Page 9 of 20 The World Bank El Salvador Transport And Resilience Infrastructure Project (P178720) are not financed by the WB, any potential downstream effects derived from the TA, or activities that are not directly related to the TA provided under the project, will not be subject to the WB ESSs. None of the prefeasibility studies is expected to result in high-risk subprojects; the project risk rating will be revised if in the future high-risk projects are considered. The ESMF will detail the applicable procedure for ToR preparation and approval. Considering that the TA has a national scope and that there are IP in El Salvador to whom ESS7 applies, the ESMF will include the procedures for applying ESS7 to these activities. Whenever studies or assessments included under Subcomponent 2.2 require sampling, testing, surveying or prospecting of environmental or natural resources (soil, water, forest, biodiversity, etc.), the Borrower and contractors will comply with national regulations and applicable ESS. The use of drones will comply with applicable national laws and GIIPs, including data protection, licensing, flying restrictions, and landowner permission. The ESMF will describe the risks associated with studies, as well as the use of drones. Component 3 is the Contingent Emergency Response Component (CERC). The Borrower will develop a specific chapter in the ESMF on CERC, identifying potential activities that the CERC could finance, a positive list of goods, services and works, analysis of potential environmental and social risks and impacts, amongst others. Additionally, the Borrower (with the Bank’s support) will use the CERC Operation Manual already adopted by the country for other operations in case the CERC is activated. ESS10 - Stakeholder Engagement and Information Disclosure Relevant This standard is relevant. To address and outline actions that ensure broad consultation and inclusive participation during project preparation and implementation, the Borrower has prepared, consulted and disclosed a draft SEP. A finalized and updated version will be completed, consulted and disclosed no later than 90 days after Project Effectiveness. The draft SEP identifies and describes: (i) the potential key stakeholders, affected and interested parties Public Disclosure as well as vulnerable groups, including families in the communities of San Pablo, Los Elías and La Muralla; owners of agricultural plots where the Bypass line will pass; catholic and evangelical churches in the Apopa area; neighbors, formal and informal businesses, and vulnerable groups (children, the elderly, people with disabilities, female heads of households, LGBTI+) in the town of Apopa; local governments; municipal police; transport cooperatives (buses route 115 and microbuses route 38-A); and local NGOs, among others); (ii) description of the consultations undertaken previously and during preparation, including results and how feedback was integrated into E&S instruments, as well as consultation strategy during implementation; (iii) key milestones to share information and most effective channels for disclosure of information; (iv) participation in the project cycle; (v) affirmative actions to facilitate the participation of vulnerable stakeholders: female headed households, children and youth, elderly, and persons with disabilities; (vi) strategy to encourage participation of stakeholders; (vii) budget, timeline, and responsibilities; (viii) project-level accessible and culturally adequate Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM); and (ix) monitoring and reporting mechanisms, among other aspects. Besides several relevant community engagement events carried out before project preparation (described in the draft SEP), three significant consultations have been carried out by the Borrower on June 3, 4 and 5, 2023. A total of 140 people (66 men and 74 women) from the communities of La Muralla, Los Elías and San Pablo and as well as representatives from various sectors of the municipalities of Tonacatepeque, Apopa and Ciudad Delgado participated. There was broad participation from local governments, religious leaders, representatives of the local traffic police, transporters, members of cooperatives, a member of the LGBTIQ+ population in Apopa, representatives of the government organization for civil protection, personnel from educational centers, and personnel of Apopa municipal units working for the safety of women and the elderly, risk management, the community and youth coordinator and community management technic staff. The topics covered by the consultations included the key project design aspects, the draft SEP, strategy for participation, communication and consultations, the key aspects of the proposed GRM, and the principal E&S risks and impacts as well as mitigation measures as Aug 25, 2023 Page 10 of 20 The World Bank El Salvador Transport And Resilience Infrastructure Project (P178720) identified in the Preliminary E&S Risk Analysis. Feedback on the environmental and social risks of the project, such as the generation of dust in the area, road safety and the construction of footbridges, the felling of trees, the protection of existing water sources have been reflected in the Preliminary E&S Risk Analysis. In all the consultations carried out, the participants endorsed the proposed mitigation measures and that they are looking forward to their implementation. Other issues raised by participants were related to resettlement and compensation, these were answered by the Borrower and will be further consulted in detail during the preparation of the RAP for the Apopa Bypass. Additionally, participants mentioned the importance to also consider access for people with disabilities in road infrastructure design. Special attention was given to the importance of road safety during construction works and in the design; mentioned were signage, the presence of traffic managers, and pedestrian crossings. Participants mentioned the importance of specific safety considerations such as making provisions for public street lighting both along the Bypass but also in the road section that passes through the town of Apopa; in particular important for people that face violence such as the LGBTIQ+ population of Apopa. Details of all consultations have been documented in the draft SEP and have enriched the E&S instruments and project design. The consultation strategy during project implementation include: communities will be consulted on the draft ESMF as well as site-specific instruments (e.g. ESMPs), thus needing to ensure proper communication with said communities to ensure there is agreement on the adequacy and timing of consultations. Also, the selection of the complementary interventions under component 1 will be defined based on consultations with the population and the selection of the road infrastructure projects whose designs will be prepared under component 2, will also be based on ongoing consultations with the interested parties, including representatives from more isolated communities in the rural areas and from Indigenous Peoples. The project´s activities under component 1 take place in the Apopa area where no Indigenous People are located. However, the technical assistance foreseen under component 2 and CERC under Public Disclosure component 3 have a national scope and as such the draft SEP ensures that Indigenous Peoples receive culturally sensitive information, when applicable. For subprojects (including the Apopa Bypass), consultations will include the project design and its planned works, such as the inclusion of universal access where technically and financially feasible, and road safety risks and features. For this, input from stakeholders, such as organizations representing people with disability will be sought, local accessibility standards, and codes on universal access and non- discrimination will be considered and consultation feedback related to universal access will be explicitly incorporated into the ESMPs and C-ESMPs. The Borrower will establish a culturally appropriate and inclusive GRM to respond to complaints throughout the project lifecycle, adapting and strengthening its existing mechanism. The GRM as described in the draft SEP establishes ways in which users can submit their grievances, which may include submissions in person, by WhatsApp, via email, letter, “complain boxes” at construction sites, among other means commonly used by the local population, including coordination activities with the leaders of the local communities to facilitate the gathering of complaints. These channels have been consulted with different stakeholders through the consultation process during project preparation. The GRM will have a central registration system, to be managed by the Social specialist at the PIU to facilitate monitoring and reporting. The information of the complainants confidential (to reduce the risk of reprisals) is assured and the GRM will also allow the recording and processing of anonymous complaints. The draft SEP sets out the length of time users can expect to wait for acknowledgement, response and resolution of their grievances, transparency about the grievance procedure, governing structure, and decision makers; and an appeals process (including the national judiciary) to which unsatisfied grievances may be referred when resolution of grievance has not been achieved. For GBV related issues, the appropriate provisions for SEA/SH will be available within the project GRM, including the identification of third-party resources in line with the requirements outlined in the GBV Action Plan included in the Apopa Bypass ESMP and additional measures in the project ESMF. Aug 25, 2023 Page 11 of 20 The World Bank El Salvador Transport And Resilience Infrastructure Project (P178720) ESS2 - Labor and Working Conditions Relevant This standard is relevant. To manage labor risks, the Borrower will prepare, disclose and adopt an LMP within 90 days of the effective date, as reflected in the draft ESCP. The ToRs for the LMP have been prepared and disclosed by the Borrower as an annex to the Preliminary E&S Risk Assessment mentioned above. Worker categories under the project will include mainly (i) direct workers, such as personnel from MOPT, DPOP, DACGER, and FOVIAL, consultants and supervising consultants hired to work on the project, including E&S specialists; and (ii) contracted workers hired to work on road improvement activities through contractors and sub-contractors. Primary suppliers (e.g., for supplying construction materials and natural resource commodities) may be involved in the project; the requirements applicable to these workers, in line with ESS2 will be described in the LMP. Migrant workers from other countries are not foreseen as El Salvador is not a receiving country, however, in-country migrants moving temporarily in search of employment opportunities might be involved in project implementation, as well as migrants who voluntarily returned or were deported to El Salvador. Additionally, the LMP will comprise differentiated measures to promote the integration of women in the road sector labor force, removing barriers and empowering women, consistent with the PDO. The considerations towards the integration of women into the labor force, as well as labor influx management, will be addressed in the project procurement documentation and processes as relevant. OHS measures will be designed and implemented to address: (a) identification of potential hazards to project workers, particularly those that may be life-threatening; (b) provision of preventive and protective measures, including modification, substitution, or elimination of hazardous conditions or substances; (c) training of project workers and maintenance of training records; (d) documentation and reporting of occupational accidents, diseases and incidents; (e) emergency prevention and preparedness and response arrangements to emergency situations; and (f) remedies for adverse impacts such as occupational injuries, deaths, disability, and disease. Occupational health and safety hazards associated with civil Public Disclosure works under this project may include i) traffic related accidents and incidents due to transport of personnel and materials to and from work sites; ii) damage or injuries resulting from construction (road rehabilitation and maintenance) works; iii) falls and slips from steep slopes, falls into excavation sites or collapsing trenches; iv) injuries resulting from the use of heavy machinery (self-propelled excavators, cranes and graders, etc.) and equipment; v) failure to use adequate personal protective equipment; vi) material and manual handling; and (vii) exposure to COVID- 19 which could spread the disease amongst workers and in the communities of intervention. During the operations phase, impacts may arise from occupational exposure during waste handling if appropriate personal protective equipment and safe working procedures aren’t implemented; and potential traffic-related accidents. Where required, contractors shall develop stand-alone project specific Health and Safety plans appropriate for each work site and processing facility in accordance with the guidance outlined in the ESMF and LMP. To prevent the risk of child labor, the minimum age for project workers will be 18 years. The project will not allow any form of child labor or forced labor. This provision will need to be clearly included in the LMP, along with measures to monitor on-site that child labor or forced labor is not taking place as part of project works. Measures related to OHS, child and forced labor, and code of conduct will be applicable to the arrangements for all project workers. The LMP will also describe the specific grievance mechanism available to the different types of workers engaged by the project, including provisions for contractors employing or engaging the workers. The LMP will also include the minimum norms to be included in the codes of conduct applicable to all project workers, which will need to include provisions to prevent SEA/SH and any relevant training on SEA/SH will be provided by the PIU to the workers. During preparation the need for additional Bank support in training on SEA/SH will be further defined and described in all relevant E&S instruments. The ESMPs will need to have mechanisms in place to effectively monitor and enforce its compliance, as well as provisions to disseminate information about the labor GRM among project workers. The requirement to receive a copy, confirm its reception, and abide to it, will be incorporated in worker contracts. Training will be provided by the PIU on these Aug 25, 2023 Page 12 of 20 The World Bank El Salvador Transport And Resilience Infrastructure Project (P178720) matters. Regarding primary supply workers, in light of cases involving child labor around the operation of quarries and sourcing of construction materials, which could involve illegal or informal operations, the LMP will include procedures for monitoring primary suppliers to prevent child or forced labor. Prison inmates will not be retained as project direct or contracted workers for the Project. ESS3 - Resource Efficiency and Pollution Prevention and Management Relevant This standard is relevant. Under Component 1, activities leading to adverse environmental impacts on air, water, and soil quality, include the clearing of the right of way (ROW) as well as earthworks and excavations that may result in the generation, management and disposal of wastes, including hazardous wastes; nuisance to surrounding communities (noise, dust, fumes); risks to nearby water sources from uncontrolled runoff leading to sedimentation and soil and water contamination from accidental spills; and pollution risks and impacts associated with the operation of cement batch plans (if required). The new bypass will cross the Las Cañas River and during construction of the 290 meters long bridge, it is likely that temporary flow diversions, interruptions or other disturbance to the flow of water and to the river will be required. During the operations phase, pillars supporting the bridge will not be located on the riverbed or otherwise interrupt the flow of the river. Impacts are expected to be predictable and mitigated by using known mitigation strategies. The applicable E&S instruments (e.g., ESIA, ESMF, ESMP), will address these risks and propose mitigation measures, including efficiency and optimal use of resources, including energy, water, and raw materials, based on the WBG EHSGs and other GIIP. Water use and management: The ESIA, ESMF, ESMP, as applicable, will identify and assess the generic water use needs and impacts for the proposed Apopa Bypass and access roads, as well as other envisaged civil works. Project water requirements are not expected to result in reduced availability for downstream users nor to affect ecological flows. The Borrower will avoid using water sources that compete or deplete Public Disclosure those used by communities. Sedimentation from storm water runoff and uncontrolled spills of bitumen, lubricants, oils, solvents and degreasers may adversely impact surface and groundwater quality. These could result from poorly maintained or operated vehicles and equipment, from poor handling and storage of equipment and materials, including poor siting of storage facilities. Potential upgrades from natural road surface to gravel and from gravel to stones may lead to potential changes to local drainage patterns. The project’s water requirements, including those for dust suppression, and the potential water sources and water use impacts and proposed mitigation measures will be detailed in ESIA, ESMF, ESMP, as applicable. Waste generation: Waste management practices will aim to avoid, reduce, reuse, or dispose of waste materials in a manner that is safe for human health and the environment. Road rehabilitation and maintenance activities will likely generate excess materials such as soil, rocks, wastewater, domestic, and hazardous waste including used oil and oil contaminated materials, batteries, tires and chemicals from work’s laboratories, and other construction waste, such as packaging materials and scrap metal. The ESIA, ESMF, ESMP, as applicable, will identify and assess potential waste streams associated with the proposed activities and include mitigation measures aimed at minimizing potential soil, water and/or air contamination from handling and disposal of waste, including hazardous wastes, for which licensed, reputable, and legitimate contractors will be retained. These measures will be consistent with the requirements of ESS3 and the WBG’s General EHS Guidelines and applicable national law. Project specific waste management and mitigation measures shall be included in ESIA and ESMPs, as needed. As set out under ESS1, the ESMF will provide guidance on the development of management plans including guidance on remediation works in respect of any environmental liabilities identified during project preparation or implementation. Air and noise emissions: Air quality and noise levels are expected to be temporarily adversely affected by the rehabilitation and maintenance works, primarily from dust generated during earthmoving activities and the movement of heavy machinery and vehicles, storage and handling of construction materials and waste. The ESMF will propose generic mitigation measures to minimize the impact of air emissions and manage noise Aug 25, 2023 Page 13 of 20 The World Bank El Salvador Transport And Resilience Infrastructure Project (P178720) levels. ESIA and ESMPs will include more specific mitigation measures including those related to dust suppression, vehicle and machinery and noise monitoring as required. Resilience and Green House Gas (GHG) emissions: The project aims to improve the natural disaster and climate resilience of intervened road infrastructure. Climate change considerations are expected to be incorporated in the design of the interventions, such as the potential impact of climate and geophysical hazards on the rehabilitated infrastructure. Project GHG emissions are expected to be associated with the preparation of road construction materials, transport logistics and the construction activities themselves. An estimation of gross GHG emissions derived from project activities is not deemed necessary considering the diverse sources of emissions and that project emissions are not likely to be significant. Potential indirect risks and impacts associated with the project may include the conversion of habitats for increased agricultural and livestock activity once access to markets is improved or other land use changes, and possible increases in wildlife mortality. Mitigation measures and recommendations will be included in the corresponding E&S instruments. Under Subcomponent 2.2, the Project will support studies, planning and manuals to support sustainable, resilient, and safe roads, including the use of drones. For all TA activities, consultancies, capacity building, and trainings to be financed under the Project, the requirements set out in paragraphs 14–18 of ESS1 will be applicable as relevant and appropriate to the nature of the risks and impacts and incorporated in the ToRs. In addition, these activities, including the resulting ToRs, work plans or other documents and outputs, will be consistent with ESS 1-10, as applicable. TA activities under Component 2 will include aspects of this ESS as best practices to be followed as these are relevant and applicable to avoid creating a nuisance. Whenever studies or assessments included under Subcomponent 2.2 require sampling, surveying or prospecting of natural or environmental resources (soil, forest, biodiversity, water, etc.), the Borrower will comply with national regulations and applicable ESS, e.g., ESS1, ESS2, ESS3, ESS4, ESS6, ESS7 and ESS8. The use of drones will comply with applicable national laws and GIIPs, including data protection, licensing, flying Public Disclosure restrictions, and landowner permission. The ESMF will analyze the E&S risks associated with the undertaking of studies and assessments, as well as the use of drones. ESS4 - Community Health and Safety Relevant This standard is relevant. Risks to community health and safety in the immediate vicinity of road rehabilitation and/or maintenance sites may include risks related to noise, dust, vibrations, odors and air pollution, unsafe construction works and work practices, changed road traffic patterns during construction, temporary interruption of utility services, and risks related to increased volume of vehicles as result of the rehabilitation of the road network during the operational phase. Other potential risks include community exposure to waterborne, water-related, and vector-borne diseases, for instance due to inadequate water storage and management practices at construction sites as well as communicable and non-communicable diseases that could result from labor influx triggered by project activities. Potential risks will be assessed in the ESIA and ESMF, which will define measures to safeguard community health and safety during project design and implementation. The ESIA and ESMPs will thus include measures for prevention, infection control, and case management of infectious diseases, which will be in line with the WBG EHS Guidelines, Good International Industry Practice (GIIP), including the World Health Organization (WHO) and Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) guidance as relevant. Labor influx risks related to community health and safety are foreseen in this project. The ESIA and ESMF will address the risks that may arise from interaction between project workers and local communities. For one, the PIU will raise awareness of such risks amongst communities in the area of project influence, and will communicate expectations regarding appropriate conduct, together with disciplinary measures to contractors and their employees, and the dissemination of grievance mechanism channels to submit complaints. Furthermore, the contracts for road rehabilitation and/or maintenance activities will include the requirement for workers to sign a formal code of conduct and will be trained periodically. Procedures and a model code of conduct will Aug 25, 2023 Page 14 of 20 The World Bank El Salvador Transport And Resilience Infrastructure Project (P178720) be included in the ESMF and LMP prepared by the client. The code of conduct shall be enforced by the client. In the context of the project, there is the possibility of SEA/SH of local women or girls, as a result of the presence of contractors’ workers, particularly in areas near construction camps and indigenous and rural communities, as well as the risk of sexual harassment, which could also be present among contract workers. The vulnerability situation of women in particular also indicates the need to develop measures as part of the project to prevent risks related to SEA/SH. These risks will be managed with measures in the ESMF, such as training sessions with workers, codes of conduct based on the minimum norms to prevent SEA/SH included in the LMP, and mechanisms in place, including in the ESMPs, to monitor and enforce SEA/SH compliance, and the implementation of culturally appropriate GRMs, such as those that involve direct coordination activities with the leaders of the local communities. The analysis of this risk to be included as part of the ESMF is expected to provide further guidance as to the specific management measures. The project foresees specific road safety actions aimed at managing risks associated with increased travel speeds and traffic volumes that could result from project activities. As part of the ESIA and ESMF, the client will develop a road safety assessment, paying special attention to vulnerable road users such as pedestrians (including children and PwD), cyclists, and motorcyclists, and technically and financially feasible road safety measure will be identified and included in the project design to prevent and mitigate potential road safety risks to workers, road users and affected communities. Depending on the results of the assessment, mitigation measures could include, but are not limited to horizontal and vertical signage, lightning, provision of pedestrian footpaths and crossings, speed management and barriers (for pedestrians and vehicles), median layout, guard-rails, safe access to public transport, and road safety awareness campaign in affected communities and schools nearby the road, amongst others. Neither the police or armed forces are expected to participate in the project, but the hiring of private security forces at construction sites can be expected to guard materials or workers camps (a common practice in El Salvador when carrying out similar Public Disclosure projects). The ESIA, ESMF (and subsequent ESMPs) and LMP will describe the measures the client will take in this regard, such as (i) make reasonable inquiries to verify that the direct or contracted workers retained to provide security are not implicated in past abuses; (ii) adequate training in the use of force and appropriate conduct toward personnel and communities near road rehabilitation or maintenance sites; and (iii) promote that contractors hire security personnel locally (from communities).The Borrower will include such provisions in bidding materials to ensure contractors comply with these measures. Universal access will be considered as part of the design of the project activities. According to census data and broad estimates El Salvador has between 10 and 15% of its population living with one or several disabilities. Urban areas often lack adequate infrastructure to accommodate persons with disabilities, and rural areas, particularly roads, rarely have sidewalks, ramps, railings or audio sensory support. For this, input from stakeholders, such as organizations representing people with disability will be sought, local accessibility standards, and codes on universal access and non-discrimination will be assessed and considerations relating to universal access (as well as potential benefits to persons with disabilities as part of project activities) will be explicitly incorporated into the ESIA, ESMPs and C-ESMPs. The ESIA will also include the identification of potential impacts of urban sprawl on the current population (including the vulnerable) and recommendations to manage and mitigate these impacts. Climate change scenarios and considerations will be taken into account during the design of project activities where relevant. Under Component 2, the project will finance technical assistance activities related to, among others, road safety. These technical assistance activities will include aspects of this ESS as best practices to be followed as relevant. ESS5 - Land Acquisition, Restrictions on Land Use and Involuntary Resettlement Relevant This standard is relevant. For the Apopa bypass construction works (C-i), the Borrower will prepare an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA), an ESMP, and a Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) according to ToR approved and Aug 25, 2023 Page 15 of 20 The World Bank El Salvador Transport And Resilience Infrastructure Project (P178720) cleared by the Bank in February 2023. Permanent resettlement of approximately 70 families across the bypass’s planned route from the Los Elias, San Pablo and La Muralla communities is foreseen (exact numbers will only be known once the MOPT presents the draft RAP for review by the Bank), as well as the acquisition (partial or total) of agricultural lands along the stretch where the Bypass will be constructed and the permanent economic displacement of several small businesses, and a small church. Additionally, adverse impacts created by the temporary restrictions in access due to construction works, could affect both established businesses and informal vendors typically located on the side of the roads. The Apopa Bypas RAP will be detailing, among other issues, the number of affected families, an evaluation of their current living conditions, the compensation strategy and approach, consultations processes, budget, timeline, and the institutional arrangements necessary to ensure all affected persons are adequately compensated within an acceptable timeframe. As mentioned under ESS1, the Borrower has experienced delays in launching the bidding process for the ESIA (including the development of an ESMP and RAP); the finalization of the RAP could be expected by March 2024, in the meantime the Borrower will be in constant engagement with the People Affected by the Project (PAP); this engagement includes frequent consultations and constant communication between the MOPT team assigned to the project and PAP while the RAP is being developed, consulted, approved, and thereafter implemented. Bidding processes for construction works for the Apopa Bypass cannot be launched prior to the approval by the Bank of the Apopa Bypass ESIA, ESMP, and RAP as detailed in the draft ESCP. For the activities under C1, which may include complementary works on the access roads to the bypass and its surroundings, as well as on the current section of road that crosses the town of Apopa, no risks associated with involuntary resettlement are foreseen. Specifically, any activities, civil works and measures focused on road safety, climate resilience, inclusiveness, connection with public transport improvements and works, and activities other than the construction of the Apopa Bypass that would generate physical or economic displacement or would require land acquisition will be included in Public Disclosure the exclusion list in the ESMF and will be reflected in the ESCP as well. Depending on the nature of the impacts, some of the Project Affected Persons may fall within the provisions of ESS5 on physical and/or economic displacement. However, there may be some groups, such as the cases of mobile vendors or persons who are indirectly affected by the project activities, especially the temporary impact during construction works, and therefore not covered under ESS5. Measures for such cases, under the provisions of ESS1, will be addressed and included as part of the Apopa Bypass ESMP, the ESMF and other site specific ESMPs. ESS6 - Biodiversity Conservation and Sustainable Management of Living Natural Relevant Resources This standard is relevant. As part of the Preliminary E&S Risk Assessment conducted by the Borrower during project preparation, the Apopa Bypass and access roads (Component 1) do not cross any natural protected areas (NPA) or their buffer zones. The closest NPA to the project area is the Municipal Protected Area of Chantecuan-Soyapango, located 6.2km away, and the Conservation Area Alto Lempa, located 3.5km away. The Preliminary E&S Risk Assessment documents that the Apopa Bypass and access roads will occur in and around with modified terrestrial habitats including agricultural and grazing lands, especially sugar cane plantations, urban developments, and natural vegetation. After running the Integrated Biodiversity Assessment Tool (IBAT) software for the proposed project area, it reveals the potential presence of 19 species in the project area listed in IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as Critically Endangered (CR) or Endangered (EN). A more in-depth characterization of biodiversity baseline conditions will be undertaken during the preparation of the independent ESIA, include fieldwork-based approaches to determine the presence of species and establish management measures where relevant, in line with the mitigation hierarchy. Activities under Component 1, relevant under ESS6, include vegetation clearing; slope cutting and stabilization; as well as earthworks, drilling and excavation of river beds. In addition, the impact of civils works on natural resources may Aug 25, 2023 Page 16 of 20 The World Bank El Salvador Transport And Resilience Infrastructure Project (P178720) result from the potential establishment and use of quarries, laydown areas, and workers camps. These civil works may negatively impact biodiversity, habitats and ecosystem services. Water abstraction from natural waterways for construction activities and the potential release of particulates or sludge from batch plants and pollutants from hydrocarbon spills may adversely impact aquatic life. Indirectly, the project could accelerate rates of land use change in the areas around Apopa and lead to an increase in the rate of roadkill of small sized species. The identification and assessment of indirect impacts will be part of the E&S instruments applicable to project components. The ESIA and ESMF preparation will utilize more detailed desktop reviews (including more accurate IBAT runs), as well as field- based approaches to assist in the identification of the presence or proximity to areas of biodiversity importance and ensure mitigation measures are documented. The ESMF will also include an Exclusion List to assist in identifying those activities that could result in the degradation of critical or sensitive natural habitats, so that they are not financed under the project. The ESIA, ESMF and ESMP, as applicable, will detail mitigation measures related to biodiversity and ecosystem services conservation, wherever applicable. ESS7 - Indigenous Peoples/Sub-Saharan African Historically Underserved Traditional Relevant Local Communities This standard is relevant. Indigenous People (IPs), as defined by ESS7, are present in the country, but not within the Apopa intervention area, which is why ESS7 is relevant for activities under Component 2 only, as these have a national scope. El Salvador has the smallest indigenous population in Latin America in absolute numbers, approximately 15,000 people, or 0.2% of the population according to the 2007 census. Indigenous communities in rural areas, such as those living in the departments of La Unión, San Miguel and Ahuachapan, are usually among the poorest in the country, with a limited access to services and road infrastructure. The lack of disaggregated data limits a detailed assessment of the Public Disclosure Indigenous population per municipalities, but Indigenous organizations estimate that hundreds of Lenca, Nahua Pipil and Cacaopera people inhabit communities, particularly in rural areas with difficult access. Given Component 2’s national scope, it is expected that some of these communities would be directly benefited from project activities. Among the risks for IP groups are: (i) limited access to project information due to lack of culturally adapted messaging, including inadequate use of language and communication channels; (ii) exclusionary or uneven stakeholder engagement, which prioritizes certain communities over others, or which fails to included harder-to-reach communities; (iii) exclusionary or uneven criteria for prioritizing the roads in economic corridors and rural areas of interest to Indigenous People that will be selected for design studies as part of the portfolio of resilient and sustainable infrastructure projects for future implementation. Given that the project’s national-level activities will focus on technical assistance rather than physical interventions, no stand-alone IPPF will be required, as there are no foreseen specific activities in IP communities. Thus, to address ESS7 requirements, the ESMF will include elements of an Indigenous Peoples Planning Framework that describe, where relevant, the commitments and mechanisms in the project to ensure the inclusion of IPs, including socio-culturally relevant methodologies for participation in prioritization processes for project activities, consultations, and means to promote opportunities for their direct benefit. The ESMF will include a description of IP groups and, where relevant, describe the project’s risks, impacts, and opportunities identified through consultation with nationally representative indigenous organizations, and outline potential activities to be further developed during project implementation based on the risk mitigation strategies identified during preliminary consultations. The ESMF will also include a clear identification of the specific project benefits, risks and impacts as determined by the consulted IP groups, in a manner that is clearly understood. The consultation of the project TA activities and ESMF shall take into consideration any culturally specific adaptations required to ensure that there is sufficient understanding and provide time for decision making processes. In addition, the final version of the SEP will include any relevant culturally appropriate engagement processes, providing sufficient Aug 25, 2023 Page 17 of 20 The World Bank El Salvador Transport And Resilience Infrastructure Project (P178720) time for decision-making processes and allowing IPs effective participation in the design of project activities or mitigation measures to address specific access barriers to project benefits. The final SEP will also describe how the project-level GRM could be strengthened and adapted to include culturally appropriate mechanisms for IPs, as well as tailored consultation strategies when necessary. Finally, the ESCP will outline the commitments and mechanisms in the project adapted for IPs, including socio-culturally relevant methodologies for communication, participation in prioritization processes for infrastructure, and consultation during prioritization of roads for design studies, and other TA activities as a means to promote opportunities for their direct benefit. ESS8 - Cultural Heritage Relevant This standard is relevant. As part of the Preliminary E&S Risk Assessment conducted by the Borrower, the Cihuatan Archaeological Site in the Aguilares Municipality is the closest historical monument to the project area (18km) and is protected by the Ministry of Culture. However, adverse impacts on tangible cultural heritage could arise as a result of civil works under Component 1 or sampling, prospecting or surveying activities under Component 2. The ESIA and ESMF will include the assessment and mitigation (as necessary) of intangible cultural heritage which may be a direct or indirect impact from project supported activities as well as provisions for the screening and assessment of any known sites of cultural or historic importance which may be impacted locally, as well as the identification of any sites of cultural/social importance for local communities. The consultation activities planned for the project are expected to help identify potential cultural heritage sites as well. Screening procedures and chance finds protocols will be included in the ESIA, ESMF and ESMPs to prevent damaging any archaeological discoveries during earth works. All ESMP measures will be reflected in bidding processes and corresponding contracts with contractors and will be enforced by the client. Public Disclosure ESS9 - Financial Intermediaries Not Currently Relevant ESS 9 is currently not relevant. B.2 Legal Operational Policies that Apply OP 7.50 Operations on International Waterways No OP 7.60 Operations in Disputed Areas No B.3 Other Salient Features Use of Borrower Framework No N/A Use of Common Approach No None. Aug 25, 2023 Page 18 of 20 The World Bank El Salvador Transport And Resilience Infrastructure Project (P178720) C. Overview of Required Environmental and Social Risk Management Activities C.1 What Borrower environmental and social analyses, instruments, plans and/or frameworks are planned or required by implementation? To address the project’s E&S risks and impacts, the E&S team has proposed a differentiated approach. For the Apopa bypass, the Borrower will prepare an independent and robust Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA), with ToRs approved by the Bank in February 2023. The ESIA will describe cumulative impacts, universal access, and climate change considerations, as well as the development of an Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) and a Resettlement Action Plan (RAP). Prior to Appraisal, a draft EIA developed to meet national requirements has been consulted and disclosed by the Borrower; the final version will be used as input to the independent ESIA. As per the ESCP, bidding processes for construction works for the Apopa Bypass may only be launched once the Bank approves the independent ESIA (ESMP and RAP). To address the the E&S impacts of other project components (access roads under C1, the provision of Technical Assistance in Component 2, and the CERC in Component 3), the Borrower drafted and disclosed a Preliminary E&S Risk Assessment. The Preliminary E&S Risk Assessment identified the E&S risks and impacts mentioned above, and confirmed the proposed risk rating for the project. Based on the results of this assessment, the Borrower will prepare an Environmental and Social Management Framework (ESMF) in line with the ESF and the World Bank Group (WBG)’s Environment, Health and Safety (EHS) Guidelines. Additionally, the Borrower will develop, consult, disclose and adopt a Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP) and Labor Management Procedures (LMP). The draft SEP was disclosed before Appraisal, and the finalized version will be completed, disclosed, and adopted no later than 90 days of the effective date. Relevant and meaningful consultations will continue to be carried out by the client as part of the development of the final versions of these instruments, to integrate stakeholders’ concerns and expectations into the analysis of potential risks and impacts, as well as proposed management measures. The ESMF, LMP, and updated SEP Public Disclosure will be disclosed and adopted no later than 90 days of the effective date. The ESCP includes actions to support project implementation in a manner consistent with the ESF, including monitoring and reporting arrangements. A draft version of the ESCP was disclosed prior to Appraisal. III. CONTACT POINT World Bank Task Team Leader: Fabian Hinojosa Couleau Title: Senior Transport Specialist Email: fhinojosa@worldbank.org TTL Contact: Abel Lopez Dodero Job Title: Senior Transport Specialist Email: alopezdodero@worldbank.org IV. FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT Aug 25, 2023 Page 19 of 20 The World Bank El Salvador Transport And Resilience Infrastructure Project (P178720) The World Bank 1818 H Street, NW Washington, D.C. 20433 Telephone: (202) 473-1000 Web: http://www.worldbank.org/projects V. APPROVAL Task Team Leader(s): Fabian Hinojosa Couleau, Abel Lopez Dodero Practice Manager (ENR/Social) Svetlana Khvostova Cleared on 17-Aug-2023 at 17:20:8 EDT ADM Environmental Specialist: Marta Jordao Henriques ADM Social Specialist: Ricardo Marten Caceres Public Disclosure Aug 25, 2023 Page 20 of 20