ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK ELECTRICITY DISTRIBUTION NETWORK STRENGHENING FOR SELECTED DISTRICT OF WEST BENGAL UNDER WORLD BANK FUND ASSISTANCE Document No.: IISWBM/ESMF-WBSEDCL/2019-2020/001 Version: 1.6 February 2021 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK FOR DISTRIBUTION NETWORK STRENGTHENING WITH HVDS, LT AB CABLING, 33/11 KV GIS SUB-STATION & UNDERGROUND ELECTRICAL CABLING NETWORK FOR SELECTED DISTRICTS OF WEST BENGAL UNDER WORLD BANK FUND ASSISTANCE Document No.: IISWBM/ESMF-WBSEDCL/2019-2020/001 Version: 1.6 WEST BENGAL STATE ELECTRICITY DISTRIBUTION COMPANY LIMITED Vidyut Bhavan, Bidhan Nagar Kolkata – 700 091 Executed by Indian Institute of Social Welfare & Business Management, Kolkata – 700 073 February, 2021 CONTENTS ITEMS PAGE LIST OF FIGURE LIST OF TABLE LIST OF ACRONYMS & ABBREVIATIONS EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1.0 INTRODUCTION 1-5 1.1 Background 1 1.2 Objectives of the Study 1 1.3 Purpose of the ESMF 3 1.4 Structure of the Framework 3 2.0 PROJECT OVERVIEW 6-9 2.1 Project Background 6 2.2 Project Development Objectives 7 2.3 Project Location 7 2.4 Project Description 7 2.4.1 Implementing Agency 7 2.4.2 Co-Financing 7 2.4.3 Project Components 7 2.5 Project Beneficiaries 9 2.6 Details of Capital Expenditure 9 ITEMS PAGE 3.0 POLICY & REGULATORY FRAMEWORK 10-29 3.1 Legal & Regulatory Framework 10 3.2 World Bank Environmental & Social standards (ESS) 14 3.3 World Bank’s Environmental and Social Risk Classification 17 3.4 Comparison Between ESF and National & State Requirement 19 4.0 APPROACH & METHODOLOGY 30-42 4.1 Due Diligence & Scoping 30 4.2 Understanding the Laws and Policies Applicable to Environment and Social Impact Assessments 31 5.0 ENVIRONMENTAL & SOCIAL BASELINE 43-69 5.1 Project Location 43 5.2 Environmental Baseline 45 5.2.1 Geomorphic Features 45 5.2.2 Climate 46 5.2.3 Water Resource 46 5.2.4 Soil/Land Use 46 5.2.5 Air Quality 46 5.2.6 Ambient Noise 48 5.2.7 Forest Cover 48 5.2.8 Flora and Fauna 59 5.3 Social Baseline 64 6.0 SCREENING OF POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL & SOCIAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES 70-89 6.1 Screening of Potential Positive Impacts 70 6.1.1 Impacts of High Voltage Distribution System 70 6.1.2 Impacts of Gas Insulated Substation 72 ITEMS PAGE 6.1.3 Impacts of Conversion of OH to UG Cabling Network 74 6.2 Screening of Potential Negative Environmental Impacts 75 6.2.1 Soil 75 6.2.2 Forest/Vegetation 75 6.2.3 Wildlife 76 6.2.4 Avian Fauna 78 6.2.5 Air & Noise Pollution from Construction Activity 78 6.2.6 Impact of Hazardous & Other Waste 79 6.2.7 Emission of Green House Gas (GHG) 80 6.2.8 Water Resource 80 6.2.9 Occupational Health and Safety 81 6.2.10 Community Health and Safety 81 6.3 Screening of Potential Negative Social Impacts 82 6.3.1 Standing Crop 82 6.3.2 Land Use Pattern 82 6.3.3 Loss of Land 83 6.3.4 Impact of Labour Influx 84 6.3.5 Impact on Common Property Resources 85 6.3.6 Interference with Utilities and Traffic and Blockage of Access Way 86 6.3.7 Tribal Communities and Their Cultural Properties 87 6.3.8 Women Work Participation and Decision Making 88 6.3.9 Visual & Aesthetics 88 6.4 Disaster Management Issues 89 7.0 INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENT 90-101 7.1 Project Cycle and E&S Safeguards 90 7.1.1 Project Conceptualisation 92 7.1.2 Project Planning & Approvals 93 7.1.3 Detailed Design, Tendering & Award 94 7.1.4 Project Implementation 94 7.1.5 Project Operation & Maintenance 95 7.2 Institutional Arrangement 95 7.3 Capacity Building & Training 97 ITEMS PAGE 8.0 GRIEVANCE REDRESSAL MECHANISM 102-109 8.1 Grievance Redressal Mechanism 102 8.1.1 Grievance Redressal System of WBSEDCL 102 8.1.2 Project Steering Committee 104 8.1.3 Grievance Redressal Committee 104 8.1.4 Court Law 105 105 8.2 Mechanism for GRM 106 8.3 GRM Budget 106 8.4 Consultation and Disclosure 106 8.4.1 Consultation 106 8.4.2 Information Disclosure 108 8.4.3 Feedback Mechanism 109 9.0 MONITORING & EVALUATION 110-113 9.1 Monitoring & Reporting 110 9.2 Budget for ESMF Implementation 113 ITEMS PAGE APPENDIX 1.1 Detailed Scope of ESMF and Generic Terms of Reference for the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) and Formulation of ESMP APPENDIX 2.1 Detailed Key Elements of Sub-Projects under WBEDGMP APPENDIX 3.1 Environmental Regulations & Policies Applicable to WBEDGMP APPENDIX 3.2 Social Regulations & Policies Applicable to WBEDGMP APPENDIX 5.1 Detailed Description of Environmental & Social Baseline APPENDIX 6.1 Typical Environmental & Social Management Plan (ESMP) - Part A to Part C [Part A: ESMP for Implementation of HVDS Part B: ESMP for Setting-up of GIS Part C: ESMP for Development of UG Cabling Network] APPENDIX 6.2 Disaster Management/Emergency Restoration Plan APPENDIX 7.1 Procedure for Undertaking Alternate Analysis APPENDIX 7.2 Generic Terms of Reference for Biodiversity Assessment Study APPENDIX 7.3 Checklist for Supervision of Implementation of ESMP APPENDIX 7.4 Detail of WBSEDCL-PIU Setup for WBEDGMP APPENDIX 8.1 Grievance Redressal Procedure of WBSEDCL LIST OF FIGURES Figure No. Description Page 1.1 Location of Project Area 5 4.1 Methodology Adopted for Formulation of ESMF 30 5.1 Location of Selected District/Town for Implementation of WBEDGMP 44 5.2 Agro-Climatic Zones of West Bengal 45 5.3 AQI of Selected Districts of West Bengal (2018-2019) 47 5.4 Percentage Distribution of Type of Forest Cover in Project Area 49 5.5 Comparative Status of Forest Cover of Selected Districts for Implementation of WBEDGMP 49 5.6 Elephant Sub-Corridors of Project Area Falling under Southern West Bengal 52 5.7 Elephant Sub-Corridors of Project Area Falling under Northern West Bengal 53 5.8 Status of Household & Total Population of Selected Districts for Implementation of WBEDGMP 61 5.9 Percentage of Scheduled Caste & Scheduled Tribe Population of Selected Districts for Implementation of WBEDGMP 61 6.1 Typical Layout of Gas Insulated Sub-Station (GIS) 67 6.2 Traffic Management Plan 81 7.1 Project Cycle of Distribution Project and E&S Safeguard 87 8.1 Grievance Redressal Process 100 LIST OF TABLES Table No. Description Page 2.1 Component Wise Detail of Capital Expenditure of Proposed Project 9 3.1 Legal & Regulatory Provisions – Environment 10 3.2 Legal & Regulatory Provisions – Social 12 3.3 Comparative Assessment of National & State Environmental & Social Regulations with World Bank’s ESSs 18 5.1 Ambient Air Quality of Selected Districts for Implementation of WBEDGMP 47 5.2 Forest Cover of Selected Districts for Implementation of WBEDGMP 48 5.3 Detail of Elephant of Sub-Corridors of Project Area 54 5.4 Major Plant Species Found in Project Area 59 5.5 Species Diversity in Major Groups of Plants & Animals 60 5.6 Administrative Setup of Selected Districts for Implementation of WBEDGMP 62 5.7 Demographic Profile of Selected Districts for Implementation of WBEDGMP 63 7.1 WBSEDCL’s Skill Requirement 95 7.2 Skill Development Programme 97 8.1 Grievance Redressal Mechanism for WBEDGMP 101 8.2 Summary of Consultation Framework 104 8.3 Summary of Information Disclosure Plan 105 9.1 Monitoring Framework 108 LIST OF ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS AE Assistant Engineer BP Bank Procedures CDD Community-Driven Development CE Chief Engineer CEA Central Electricity Authority CGRF Consumer Grievance Redressal Forum CMVR Central Motor Vehicle Rules CO2 Carbon Dioxide CPCB Central Pollution Control Board CPRI Central Power Research Institute CRZ Coastal Regulation Zone DC District Collector DE Divisional Engineer EE Executive Engineer EEE Electrical and Electronic Equipment EHSGs World Bank Group Environmental, Health and Safety Guidelines EIA Environmental Impact Assessment EPA Environment Protection Agency ERP Emergency Response Plan ESA Environmental and Social Assessment ESCP Environmental and Social Commitment Plan ESF Environmental & Social Framework ESMF Environmental and Social Management Framework ESMP Environmental and Social Management Plan ESMS Environmental and Social Management System ESS Environmental and Social Standard FPIC Free, Prior and Informed Consent GDF Gender Development Framework GHG Greenhouse Gas GoWB Government of West Bengal GoI Government of India GIIP Good International Industry Practice GIS Gas Insulated Switchyard GRC Grievance Redressal Cell GRS Grievance Redress Service GWP Global Warming Potential HVDS High Voltage Distribution System LMP Labour Management Procedure LVDS Low Voltage Distribution System MoEF&CC Ministry of Environment, Forests & Climate Change MoP Ministry of Power MoU Memorandum of Understanding MVA The Motor Vehicles Act NGO Non-Governmental Organization NOC No Objection Certificate O&M Operation and Maintenance OHS Occupational Health and Safety OP Operational Policy PCB Polychlorinated Biphenyls PCCF Principal Chief Conservator of Forests PESO Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation PF Provident Fund PIU Project Implementation Unit RHA Risk Hazard Assessment RPF Resettlement Policy Framework R&R Rehabilitation and Resettlement Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, RFCTLARRA Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act RoW Right of Way SC Scheduled Caste SE Superintendent Engineer SF6 Sulfur Hexafluoride SIA Social Impact Assessment SPCB State Pollution Control Board SEP Stakeholder Engagement Plan SESA Strategic Environmental and Social Assessment ST Scheduled Tribe T&D Transmission and distribution TPPF Tribal Peoples Planning Framework UGC Underground Cabling WBPCB West Bengal Pollution Control Board WBSEDCL West Bengal State Electricity Distribution Company Limited WBEDGMP West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Executive Summary EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1.0 INTRODUCTION West Bengal State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (WBSEDCL) is a power distribution licensee for almost the entire State of West Bengal and accounts for about 80% of the power supply in the State and caters to almost 18.1 million customers. At present grid connectivity has been extended in every nook and corner of the State covering 99% villages. To achieve Power for All (PFA) objective, the Government of West Bengal (GoWB) has sought World Bank assistance to support part of their investments in High Voltage Distribution System (HVDS), 33/11 KV GIS, Underground Cabling (UG) across select districts/towns (besides modern technology and institutional capacity building) to facilitate increased availability of power, improve service delivery and reduce system losses. For implementation of proposed distribution network strengthening project, it is not only mandatory to comply with applicable national & state legislations/regulatory framework on environment and social issues but to carry out due diligence on such issues as per the provisions of World Bank's Environmental and Social Framework (ESF) to meet the overall requirement of sustainable development. This Environmental & Social Management Framework (ESMF) defines a mechanism for integrating environmental and social concerns into the planning and execution of proposed West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project (WBEDGMP). The ESMF thus defines processes for planning and implementing the environmental and social safeguards management and lays down the management procedures and protocols for the purpose that includes the framework for identification, assessment, and management of environmental and social concerns at both organizational and project/subprojects levels so as to avoid, reduce/minimize and/or mitigate project environmental and social risks and impacts. Since the complete details of the subprojects are not yet known, carrying out subproject specific ESIA and preparation of project specific ESMP is not possible at this stage Therefore, this ESMF provides guidance for assessing sub project specific E&S Risk & Impacts and also provides triggers for specialized studies e.g., SIA/RAP, TDP & Biodiversity Assessment etc. to be conducted when a sub-project encounters such issues for more focused attention/measures. Additionally, guidelines/procedure/plans to address Gender, Labour and Stakeholders issues etc. including institutional mechanism for implementing/monitoring the E&S management during the project execution and operation &maintenance phase have also been included in the ESMF. P A G E |i ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Executive Summary 2.0 PROJECT OVERVIEW In order to provide reliable and quality power, the West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project (WBEDGMP), with funding support from the World Bank is being carried out by WBSEDCL, which include the following components: (i) Development of High Voltage Distribution System (HVDS) in 14 districts (ii) Construction of 15 nos. 33/11 kV GIS (iii) Conversion of Overhead Network into underground cable system at 5 Towns (iv) Creation of IT backbone by rolling out Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) (v) Implementation of SCADA system The HVDS & GIS sub-projects will be executed in 14 Districts of West Bengal in India namely Howrah, East Medinipur, Bankura, Purulia, Nadia, Murshidabad, Malda, North Dinajpur, South Dinajpur, Coochbehar, Alipurduar, Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri. Wheras sub-projects for conversion of existing overhead distribution lines (33/11 kv HT and LT) into underground cabling will be implemented in 5 towns of West Bengal namely Baruipur, Baguihati/Krishnapur, Rajarhat, Asansol, Kharagpur. The Project aims to provide reliable, safe and quality power with improvement in voltage profile to the semi urban and rural consumers of the project Districts and Towns of West Bengal. The project is expected to benefit more than 10 million people of West Bengal. The total cost of the proposed project is INR 2800.54 (USD 398.82 million). 3.0 POLICY & REGULATORY FRAMEWORK India has a wide range of environmental and social policies, legislations, and regulations to handle/manage E&S issues associated with different types of projects. However, many of these regulations are not applicable to present project due to the nature of project activities and demonstrable E&S impacts. The World Bank’s Environmental and Social Standards applicability for proposed projects components has been identified and gaps in national or state regulations to be considered while formulation of ESMF. In the screening process as per ESS 1, scoping of key environmental and social risks and impacts of the Project has been undertaken and appropriate mitigation measures identified, as laid out in this ESMF. Sub-project specific ESIAs will be conducted prior to the implementation of activities. The Project includes small-scale construction work, including setting up GIS and UG Cabling Network. Sub-component activities will employ contracted workers who will be subject to the provisions of LMP, GRM and World Bank Group Environment, Health and Safety Guidelines in compliance of ESS 2. The Project will provide GRM for community as well as to contracted workers. Additionally, each sub-project contractor will prepare a Construction-ESMP with labour protocol to address such issues. The Project will improve the availability and quality of power in project area. It aims for resource efficiency in the reduction of AT&C losses and other natural resource like forest, water etc. through innovative means like using treated water for construction activity to the extent P A G E | ii ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Executive Summary possible in line with provision of ESS 3. The Project will also develop and implement measures and procedures for managing waste and hazardous materials during construction and operation phase of project. Although the Project aims to improve the lives of millions of people in rural and sub-urban as well as urban area, in order to address any unintended negative consequences on communities primarily during construction period, many measures will be undertaken by the WBSEDCL, including requiring contractors to develop road safety management plan and a Health and Safety Plan as part of the C-ESMP, specific risks and impacts outlined in the ESMF and subsequent ESMPs. All activities will be compliant with the applicable regulations and ESS 4. The legislations and policy related to land acquisition and resettlement & rehabilitation as well as provisions of ESS 5 may not be attracted as no involuntary land acquisition is envisaged in the project. Only Government land is likely to be secured for setting up of GIS and in case of private land, direct purchase on the principle of willing buyer-willing seller on negotiated rate using provisions of West Bengal land purchase policy and RPF shall only be used. It is anticipated that the existing route alignment with appropriate mitigative measures will be undertaken for conservation of vegetation/biodiversity and other living natural resources in order to be fully compliant with this statutory instrument (ESS 6). No Indigenous/Tribal People are likely to be affected in majority of sub-projects however, if any sub-project likely to affect any Indigenous/Tribal people the sub-project specific TDP would be prepared in accordance with TPPF and ESS7 and Implemented. No major impact on any cultural heritage sites is anticipated under the Project; however, in case of any chance findings at the sub-project level, the same will be handled following Chance Find Procedures (ESS 8). This process of consultation has already commenced during the ESMF development to know the people’s opinion about project. However, a detailed Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP) with mapping out all the different types of stakeholders, timings and modes of communication and consultation has also been prepared for implementation during ESIA and project execution. The Plan linked the GRM with the SEP to address the issue of transparency and feedback. ESS 10 recognizes the importance of open and transparent engagement vis-à-vis project stakeholders by the borrower. As per the initial risk assessment the sub-component I, II and III of proposed project are classified as Moderate Risk while sub-component IV and V are classified as Low Risk. This is due to the fact that: (i) The potential adverse risks and impacts are not likely to be significant. This is because the project is not complex and/or large, does not involve activities that have a high potential for harming people or the environment, and is located away from environmentally or socially sensitive areas. As such, the potential risks and impacts and issues are likely to have the following characteristics: ➢ predictable and expected to be temporary and/or reversible; P A G E | iii ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Executive Summary ➢ low in magnitude; ➢ site-specific, without likelihood of impacts beyond the actual footprint of the project; ➢ low probability of serious adverse effects to human health and/or the environment (e.g. do not involve use or disposal of toxic materials, routine safety precautions are expected to be sufficient to prevent accidents, etc.). (ii) Risks and impacts can be easily mitigated in a predictable manner. 4.0 APPROACH & METHODOLOGY The ESMF has been prepared generating information through both primary and secondary sources including consultations and library research as well as past experience of similar sub- projects undertaken by WBSEDCL. Detailed activities planned under each sub-project were identified and listed. This information has been primarily collected from initial discussions with the identified project implementation team of WBSEDCL along with representatives of REPDCL (DPR consultants) & other stakeholders. Secondary data sources such as preliminary detailed project reports, sample site survey and assessment sheets, identified investment planning and related project schedule plans provided by the WBSEDCL were also used. Screening of potential environmental & social risks & impacts of proposed project components have been undertaken considering the existing baseline environmental and social setting of project area. The proposed sub-projects are likely to create positive as well as negative impact on the environmental and social setting in two distinct phases during the construction phase, which may be regarded as temporary or short term; and during the operation phase that may be long-term effects. A detailed and generic Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) has been formulated for management of potential E&S issues/impacts to be implemented during project execution and subsequently in O&M stage. The grievance redressal mechanism has been evolved to provide a time bound process to address all grievances/issues/non-compliances that will be brought to notice of Committee/WBSEDCL during project implementation stage. Consultations with key stakeholders including affected community, local & state government entities and key ministries at the state level were undertaken to know views and concerns about environmental and social issues/concerns of the project. This activity ensured appropriate participation and gathering views from the environment and social perspective of all the stakeholders, which is integrated in this ESMF to be adopted during different stages of the project implementation. The Monitoring and Evaluation Plan has been formulated to ensure the effective implementation of provisions of ESMF while carrying out ESIA and subsequently at different phases of project execution/O&M. Training needs for the capacity building of WBSEDCL’s officers & staff or implementation of provisions of ESMF have also been identified. This would facilitate effective monitoring of the environment and social issues and ensure mitigation measures are being implemented appropriately. The costs to be incurred to implement the various requirements of the ESMF have been budgeted. P A G E | iv ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Executive Summary 5.0 ENVIRONMENTAL & SOCIAL BASELINE The existing environmental & social baseline of project area has been assessed to screen the potential environmental & social risks and impacts of various components of proposed project. A compendium of biophysical and social sensitivity in the project area has been compiled on the basis of secondary data and spot verification during the field visit to provide an understanding of scale and magnitude of sensitivity/vulnerability of physical, ecological and social environment. The project beneficiary and sub-component sites spread over in 14 districts and 5 towns of West Bengal. The State of West Bengal has 6 distinctive Agro-climatic zones. West Bengal's climate varies from tropical savanna in the southern portions to humid subtropical in the north. The main seasons are summer, the rainy season, a short autumn, and winter. While the summer in the delta region is noted for excessive humidity, the western highlands experience a dry summer like northern India. The highest daytime temperatures range from 38 °C (100 °F) to 45 °C (113 °F). In general, the soils of west Bengal are divided into four types- Mountain soils, Alluvial Soils, Red soils and saline soil. The Land use analysis reveal that about 59.94 % of reporting area is net sown area and of which only 21.17 % area is under government canal irrigation facility. The forest land occupies 13.52 % while 21.12 % of reporting area of the State is not available for cultivation. Air quality of the project area is showing moderate to high level of air pollution particularly with respect to particulate pollutant (PM10) in selected districts. However, in general the gaseous pollutants level is considerably lower than national ambient air quality standards. The ambient noise level of the majority of the project area showed that the value ranging from 50 to 70 dB which is well within prescribed limits. The West Bengal has a geographical area of 88,752 km². As per State of Forest Report 2019 of Forest Survey of India, forest cover in West Bengal is 16,901.51 km2 which is 19.04% of the state's geographical area. The analysis reveals that very dense forest account for only 18% of total forest cover of West Bengal and majority of the forest is open forest (57% of total forest cover). The analysis reveals that the Darjeeling including Kalimpong district have highest forest cover i.e., 75.19% followed by Jalpaiguri including Alipurduar district i.e., 45.97%. However, in other districts selected for implementation of WBEDGMP forest area varies from 4 to 21% only. It has been observed that state has considerable coverage of Protected Area Network including Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Park and this need to be avoided while selection of any new distribution line route alignments while setting new DTRs locations as well as site for GIS. There are few elephant sub-corridor in Southern & Northern West Bengal which are connecting different elephant habitats. Some of these sub-corridors may falls in project area viz. mainly in the Puruliya (Purulia Division, Kangsabati North Division and Kangasabati South Division), West Midnapore (Midnapore Division, Rupnarayan Division, Jhargram Division and Kharagpur Division) and Bankura districts (Bankura North Division and Bankura South Division). Similarly in P A G E |v ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Executive Summary the Northern West Bengal region spread over the districts of Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar and Coochbehar. The subprojects in these areas would take these ECs into consideration while planning and construction activities. Administrative setup as well as demographic profile of selected Districts of West Bengal for implementation of WBEDGMP has been analysed. The analysis of social stratification of project area shows that the Scheduled Tribes constitute from 0.31% to 32.01% of the entire population of the concerned district. The maximum ST population are in Kalimpong District i.e. 32.01% of total population followed by in Alipurduar District i.e. 28.53%. 6.0 SCREENING OF POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL & SOCIAL IMPACTS & MITIGATION MEASURES Based on initial screening and due diligence of the activities involved in the project viz up- gradation of existing electricity distribution infrastructure, potential environmental & social risks and impacts are anticipated to be low though certain components of project have been assigned moderate at the beginning. The key environmental and social issues associated with installation of HVDS, LT AB cabling, 33/11 KV GIS and UG cabling network and corresponding preventive and/or mitigation measures are designed following principle of mitigation hierarchy: “Avoid, Minimise, Mitigate and Offset” in that order of preference. Screening of Potential Positive Impacts ▪ The prime positive Impacts of High Voltage Distribution System includes reduction in technical losses in the system; reduction in distribution transmission (DTR) failure rate; enhanced reliability & quality of power; enhanced customer satisfaction; and avoidance of theft; ▪ A GIS has lesser land requirement (25%) to AIS hence reduced social impact. In addition, it has lower operations and maintenance needs; ▪ Potential positive impact of underground cabling network includes aesthetics, higher public acceptance, fewer interruptions and lower maintenance costs. Probability of fault in overhead lines and underground cables vary widely, but typically underground cable outage rates are very minimal in comparison to their equivalent overhead line types. Screening of Potential Negative Environmental Impacts ▪ Impact on soil would not be significant both due to the construction of electricity distribution network pole and GIS substation as well as conversion of existing overhead distribution system (HT/LT) into underground cabling network; ▪ Major habitat alterations are not expected in electricity distribution networks strengthening activities due to avoidance of forest/ ecological sensitive areas or natural habitats. However, insignificant loss of vegetation may occur due to trimming/felling of P A G E | vi ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Executive Summary trees within the RoW to maintain the required electric clearance between tree and conductor (applicable mostly in areas where bare conductor is used); ▪ Electricity distribution network if it passes through National Park, Wildlife Sanctuaries and Elephant Sub-corridors, may cause disturbance to wildlife habitats/corridors. In electricity distribution network bird deaths may be caused from collisions/electrocution. The likelihood of avian collisions is high especially when electricity distribution networks are located near migratory bird corridors, foraging grounds or nesting and roosting sites as well as water bodies; ▪ During construction phase of the project i.e., construction of substation and electricity distribution network including UG cabling, insignificant amount of air and noise pollution may be generated due to various construction activities. This would include emission from fugitive and exhaust air pollution from the movement of vehicle carrying construction material and machinery used during site clearance and leveling of site for GIS substation, excavation and filling up of trenches for laying UG cable etc. However, this will too be temporary and intermittent only during construction phase hence will not affect the overall/existing Air Quality Index (AQI) of project area; ▪ Sulphur hexafluoride (SF6) is physiologically completely harmless for humans and animals. It has no eco-toxic potential. It does not deplete Ozone. However, due to its high global warming potential (23500 times of CO2 according to the 5th Assessment Report of IPCC, 2014), it may contribute to man-made greenhouse effect if it is released into the atmosphere. However, in electrical switchgear, the SF6 gas is always used in gas-tight compartments, greatly minimizing leakage. The SF6 emission factor in GIS ranges from about 0.1 – 0.5 % per year (0.5 % per year is the maximum acceptable leakage rate according to IEC 62271-203). This makes the real impact of SF6 emission on environment and Global warming quite negligible; ▪ During construction phase of GIS substations, pole and UG cabling network, water would be required for construction work as well as for domestic purpose. Water would also be used for earthwork, leveling, concreting and curing of concrete. Recycled water for this purpose would be explored to be utilized if available leading to water resource conservation; ▪ As a part of routine maintenance, transformer oil would be changed every 10- 15 years. The used transformer oil is categorized as hazardous wastes as per Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary Movement) Rules, 2016 and its unscientific disposal may lead to contamination of ground water. Further, transformer oil may contain insignificant concentration of Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs); ▪ The labour camps might be setup for the construction of the GIS substation and the fly-camps may be developed at different location for the erection of the DTRs/poles and stringing as well as excavation of trenches/ micro-tunneling for UG cabling work. These camps may generate solid and liquid waste. These wastes may contaminate the soil and the water bodies around the site if it is not properly handled; ▪ The occupational risk related to the construction of electricity distribution networks is primarily due to fall from heights which might cause serious injuries. Electricity distribution network poles would be of different heights and height of the pole would be 9 m in case of 11/33 kV and 8 m in case of LT line; O&M is not in scope of funding P A G E | vii ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Executive Summary and will be carried out by trained staff of WBSEDCL. However, these aspects made part of ESMP to avoid due importance during O&M phase. ▪ During the construction of the foundation for the GIS and trench for UG cabling etc. the excavation may pose some safety concerns for the inhabitants in the locality. This would be more relevant when the construction is carried out near a settlement or along a foot track or existing village road. During operation phase, the generation of Electro Magnetic Field (EMF) from 11/33 kV lines are likely to be insignificant. Screening of Potential Negative Social Impacts ▪ The erection of DTR/poles and subsequently stringing of electricity distribution networks may involve movement of men, machinery and equipment across agricultural fields. This may cause damage to the standing crops in agriculture field; ▪ Land requirements for each GIS substation would be depending on technical considerations. Wherever possible, the project will try as much as possible to use non- forest government land, to minimize private land procurement. When not feasible or in the absence of government land only private land may be procured for the project on willing buyer willing seller basis on negotiated rate using GoWB Land Purchase Policy, 2016 and RPF for the GIS substations. Therefore, significant impact/loss of land is not envisaged in the proposed project; ▪ Labour would be required for construction of the GIS substation and erection of high voltage electricity distribution (HVDS) system and UG cabling networks. Unskilled labour would be required for civil work and would be preferably sourced from local areas. However skilled labour required for erection of pole, commissioning of the GIS substation, stringing of electricity distribution networks, micro tunneling for UG cabling, etc. may include some migrant labours; ▪ The basic issues related with migrant labour may include conflict amongst workers, between workers and local community, based on cultural, religious or behavioral practices and discontent amongst local community on engagement of outsiders as well as chances of mild outbreaks of certain infectious diseases due to interactions between the local and migrant populations; ▪ For access to pole location or electricity distribution system, the contractor would use the existing road i.e., existing National/State highway or village road. During construction phase due to the movement of the construction related vehicle and machinery some of the roads especially village roads may get damaged; ▪ During the UG cabling and stringing operations when the electricity distribution network crosses any road/ railways line, hindrance may be caused to the movement of traffic. In some instances, temporary closure of the road/railway line may be required to facilitate such stringing activities. This disruption in movement would cause inconvenience to the local population as access would be interrupted temporarily; ▪ As the baseline section indicates, major ST population resides in rural areas of the state and so the proposed project would also benefit the tribal population and their domains. However, majority of these tribal people do not belong to typical indigenous community. As typical tribal people communities are closely tied to ancestral domains P A G E | viii ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Executive Summary and natural resources, including land, forest, water, and others. Hence, their ties in terms of their customary rights to these ancestral domains which they traditionally own, use, or occupy, and where access to natural resources is vital for their survival and livelihood system may not get impacted due to erecting pole footings and stringing of operations of electricity distribution networks; ▪ Analysis of the workforce involvement in the West Bengal indicates that the average female work participation in all the blocks is 18.08% (which is lower than the national rate of 25.6%). The maximum involvement of rural women are in agricultural sector, however, work participation of female workers in power sector, especially electricity distribution network projects, are considerably less; ▪ The conversion of existing overhead distribution lines (HT/LT) in to UG Cabling Network would enhance visual & aesthetic landscapes of sub-project area. However, installation of HVDS, LT AB cabling, 33/11 KV GIS would not significantly change visual and aesthetics view of sub-project area. The overall impact is likely to be positive to most peoples, baring few places where sub-projects activities would cross natural landscapes; ▪ Due to the development of cyclonic storms in Bay of Bengal/Indian Ocean throughout the years, the state is often facing moderate to severe damages including the electrical installations/distribution networks. Environmental & Social Management Plan The basic purpose of the ESMF is to design/formulate mitigative measures and plan for assessment and management protocol to address identified/potential environmental & social risk/impacts during implementation & O&M stage. The ESMF is designed on the principles of avoidance, minimization & mitigation, including offsetting /compensating any residual issues to meet the requirement of sustainable development and compliance of Bank’s ESSs. ▪ Mitigation measures which would be considered to reduce impacts on soil during construction of electricity distribution networks/substation includes excess excavated material from pole/DTR foundation/UG cable laying has to be removed by the contractor immediately after completion of pole erection; ▪ WBSEDCL, wherever possible, would use the existing path/access roads for the movement of man and machinery so that vegetation clearance is not required for accessing construction sites. Contract document for the construction of electricity distribution network including UG cabling and GIS substation would include specific clauses to prevent felling of trees unless it becomes absolutely necessary. Only those trees for which tree felling permission has been obtained from the Forest Department under the West Bengal Trees (Protection and Conservation in Non Forest Areas) Rules, 2007 would be felled; ▪ WBSEDCL would make efforts to prevent intrusion of electricity distribution network into wildlife habitats through optimization of route alignment to circumvent likely impact on vegetation & biodiversity. As per MoEF&CC guidelines for laying of distribution lines of 33 kV and below, passing through National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries, Conservation Reserves, Community Reserves, and Wildlife Corridors, P A G E | ix ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Executive Summary underground cables or Aerial Bunched (AB) cables or insulated conductor shall be used to avoid possible incident of electrocution; ▪ Use of ABC or insulated cable with other measures like Providing bird guards on electric pole to avoid perching and installation of bird diverter in identified bird habitat/fly way zone if required shall be undertaken to avoid bird collusion/electrocution; ▪ To prevent air pollution the vehicle carrying construction material and machinery would move along the existing access road only. Vehicles which are having valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificate would only be deployed for the purpose with regular check; ▪ Regular maintenance of the micro tunneling, winching machine, etc would be carried out to prevent excessive noise. Also, for machineries involved in GIS substation construction, maintenance schedule would be prepared and maintained by the contractor. Night time construction activity would be prohibited in case settlement/habitation is located within 500 m of the construction site; ▪ WBSEDCL would ensure that used transformer oil is disposed in accordance to the Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary Movement) Rules, 2016 as well as standard operating procedure; ▪ WBSEDCL would follow the strict and well-defined procedure for storage, handling and refilling of SF6 gas cylinders. Every refill would be documented and any unusual variation in gas volume would be reported to WBSEDCL for review and rectification; ▪ Water usage for construction work would be reduced by adopting various best practices and preference would be given to use of recycled water for construction activity wherever feasible; ▪ During the testing and charging of electrical lines and GIS substation, electricity insulating protective equipment like footwear (ISO 20345: 2004 Part-2), rubber gloves (IS 4770: 1991) would be provided to workers. In addition, provisions of the “Central Electricity Authority (Measures Relating to Safety and Electric Supply) Regula tions 2010” would be adhered to; ▪ For the foundation of GIS and trenches for UG cabling being constructed near settlement or access road, there are chances of accidents. During the construction period the construction areas shall be barricaded, if required. To facilitate easy identification of these areas during the night, warning lights and reflective tapes would be placed on the boundary for enhanced & clear visibility; ▪ Mitigation measures to reduce impact on loss of standing crop include constructions to be undertaken during the lean agricultural season after the harvest are over to the extent possible; use of village roads and earth bunds between agricultural plots for movement of equipment and workers, wherever feasible; and when damage to standing crops cannot be avoided due to the construction work, the farmer will be fully compensated for all damages as assessed by revenue authorities; ▪ The prime measures to mitigate impacts from labour influx include: P A G E |x ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Executive Summary ➢ The workers would be advised for not to allow themselves to be influenced in the execution of their duties by any consideration other than the legitimate and reasonable interests of the respective labors to avoid conflict with local community; ➢ Expats or transient workers would be advised to adhere to national requirements and guidelines with respect to COVID-19; ➢ The workers would be advised to inform the project manager to get their health checked as soon as possible if he/she witnesses any symptom of communicable disease and start treatment as soon as possible to avoid transmission to others; ➢ Any worker who is subject to sexual harassment either by actions or words must immediately bring the matter to the attention of his supervisor/manager as well as project manager; ➢ No worker would discriminate against other workers on any basis including that of Religion, Caste, Language, Nationality, Ethnicity etc. ▪ Wherever required before using village road, minor improvement would be carried out by contractor which would also help in augmentation and strengthening of road network particularly in peri-urban and rural area leading to positive impact for local people. In case of damage to the road or culvert or any common utilities during the construction activities it would be the responsibility of the contractor to repair the same (to abide the procedure for restoration). ▪ The proposed Traffic Management Plan for UG cabling work is presented below: • Safety barricade with reflective stickers will be placed along the existing roads. Machineries and equipment like excavator, RMC truck etc. used for construction works will be operated inside barricaded area; • Warning sign boards will be placed before and after the construction area for easy identification of construction activities by vehicle drivers. Further, reflective stickers will be placed at a comfortable distance before the barricading area to guide the drivers; • A flag man with Red Flag will be present at the site during the day time, guiding the public, when the construction activities are going on. After the work activities warning flash lights will be installed at the corners of barricaded area; • Due permission from PWD, NHAI, Railway etc. shall be obtained before undertaking such activity. ▪ If tribal populations are likely to get affected by subprojects, Tribal Development Plan would be prepared and implemented by WBSEDCL to ensure that affected tribal population: i) are adequately and fully consulted, ii) receive benefits and compensation at par with other affected people as per the legal requirement., (iii) are provided with special assistance as per laws and policies (iv) receive adequate protection against project adverse impacts on their culture identities. P A G E | xi ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Executive Summary ▪ Adequate measures will be undertaken to safeguard gender issues in the project area as outlined in Gender Action Plan (GAP). Women involvement will be ensured through formal and informal group consultations so that their participation is ensured during implementation of the project. If any women labour employed at construction site, separate arrangement like toilet facility, rest area etc. would be made for them. ▪ A detailed Disaster Management Plan is in place with WBSEDCL and provisions of same shall be implied in case of occurrence of any accident or disaster. 7.0 INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENT The stages of the WBEDGMP project cycle for developing HVDS and GIS substations as well as UG cabling network along with other sub-component of proposed project includes project conceptualization; project planning; approval and clearances; detail designing, tendering& award; project implementation; and operation & maintenance. As part of each of the process, E&S safeguards have been dovetailed in the project cycle to ensure its proper and timely compliance. For the implementation of the West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project, West Bengal State Electricity Distribution Company Limited has developed a Project Implementation Unit (WBSEDCL-PIU). The WBSEDCL PIU is located at the WBSEDCL headquarters in Bidyut Bhavan, Bidhannagar, Kolkata and is headed by the Additional Chief Engineer. The WBSEDCL PIU would also be responsible for driving the implementation of the E&S safeguards in WBEDGMP. At the field level, the Regional/Divisional offices of WBSEDCL who would be responsible for implementing the technical aspects of the WBEDGMP would also be responsible for the implementation of the E&S safeguards. In addition, the Contractor implementing the subprojects would also have an Environment and Social personnel to actually carry out the E&S safeguards on the ground. The capacity building or the WBEDGMP would include both augmentation of the present institutional structure of WBSEDCL PIU as well as carrying out training of the personnel to be involved in the project implementation on E&S issues in WBEDGMP.Based on skill requirement/improvement at all levels for proper implementation of ESMF, a training programme focusing personnel from Corporate Office, PIU and Region/ Division Field office has been developed which will be implemented by the WBSEDCL. 8.0 GRIEVANCE REDRESSAL MECHANISM A 3-tier grievance redressal mechanism is already in place at WBSEDCL. 1st tier at Customer Care Centre (CCC) Level: At CCC level, any consumer can lodge the complaint at either through WBSEDCL web portal (wbsedcl.in) or docket his complain at toll free number or lodge the complaint directly at CCC. For grievance redressal, there is one P A G E | xii ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Executive Summary dedicated person at junior engineer position at CCC level to look after/document all the grievances. It is the responsibility of Station Manager to redress the same within 21 days. 2nd tier at Regional Level: If the consumer is not satisfied at CCC level or CCC is not empowered to take decision, it can go / refer to the next tier i.e. Regional Grievance Redressal Officer (RGRO). RGRO is designated Officer at the rank of Divisional Engineer. RGRO will decide within 45 day (45-21 =24 days). If grievance is not settled even at this tier, then consumer/RGRO may refer it to the next tier. 3rd tier at Corporate Level: At this level, grievance is looked after by Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Cell. Chief Engineer of CRM Cell is the Chief Grievance Redressal Officer of WBSEDCL and will decide within 60 days (60-45=15 days). Normally, such grievances are addressed by hearing (at all three levels) followed by reasoned order. In order to strengthen the existing 3-tier grievance redressal mechanism of WBSEDCL to effectively address grievances related to ESMP implementation, two additional bodies are proposed to be established; Project Steering Committee (PSC) at the corporate level and Grievance Redressal Committees (GRCs) at the sub-project sites. The established PSC for WBEDGMP under the chairmanship of Additional Chief Engineer (Distribution) of WBSEDCL, shall be used to monitor and review the progress of implementation of ESMP of each sub- project. Additional Chief Engineer (Distribution) WBSEDCL, will be convener of this Committee. The Grievance Redressal Committee (GRC) will be established at each sub-project site under the chairmanship of Divisional/Regional Manager, WBSEDCL for redressal of grievances of the APs. Designated Divisional Manager of concerned region shall be the convener of this Committee. It is proposed that the APs first register the grievances with the IA. After receipt of grievance, the IA should take them to the Committee (GRC) to take up the matter during the next immediate meeting and initiate measures for redressal. No grievance can be kept pending for more than a month which means the Committee has to meet every month. Implementation of the redressal rests with the PIU. In case the aggrieved party is not satisfied with the proposed redressal measures, it can approach the PSC. If the aggrieved party is not satisfied with the decision of PSC, it can approach the court of law. Through the process of consultation and disclosures, WBSEDCL would envisage to build participation of stakeholders’ at each stage of project planning and implementation. WBSEDCL would be responsible not only for ensuring participation of the community in the consultation process but to make it effective ensure integration of the feedback received from stakeholder into the project plans where it deems fit. P A G E | xiii ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Executive Summary The information disclosure would provide citizen centric information on the policies and the details of sub-projects along with its implementation process of WBEDGMP. It would be carried out in accordance to the provision of the Right to Information Act 2005 and World Bank’s Environmental and Social Standard 10 on Stake-holder Engagement and Information Disclosure. The WBEDGMP Information Disclosure Procedure would ensure that information concerning safeguard documents of the WBEDGMP’s activities is made available to the public in the local language without any confidentiality. The feedback of the project affected persons/citizens would be captured through the Division/Regional offices of WBSEDCL and conveyed to WBSEDCL PIU for necessary action. 9.0 MONITORING AND EVALUATION The WBSEDCL PIU through the respective Region/Division Offices would monitor the implementation of the environmental and social safeguards in all the subprojects to ensure conformity to the requirements of the ESMF/ESIA and ESMP. The monitoring would be carried out through the subproject wise Monthly Progress Reports (MPR) submitted by the Region/Division Offices of WBSEDCL implementing the subproject. The designated Environmental Officer and Social Officer of the WBSEDCL PIU would also visit the site regularly for the purpose of monitoring and supervision. The reporting would capture information from the Contractors/Implementing Agency to Region/Division Offices and through a graduated process of consolidations, analysis and assessment, a monthly progress report will be send by the Division Office to the Environment and Social Officers at WBSEDCL PIU. The WBSEDCL PIU would review these monthly reports and identify technical, managerial or regulatory and safeguard issues with regards to the compliance of the ESIA/ESMP provisions. A corrective action plan would be developed by the WBSEDCL PIU and debated internally to determine the appropriate interventions. These interventions would be conveyed to the WBSEDCL Management through a Quarterly report for approval and subsequently implemented by WBSEDCL PIU. The PIU would prepare a quarterly progress report (QPR) with ESMP compliance status and Semi-annual monitoring report and present it to the WBSEDCL and World Bank. Estimated cost of ESMF implementation may vary from 1-3% of total project cost depending on the ecological sensitivity of sub –project area as well as required mitigative measures for offsetting likely potential adverse environmental and social impacts. P A G E | xiv ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 1 1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 BACKGROUND West Bengal State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (WBSEDCL) is a power distribution licensee for almost the entire State of West Bengal, except for certain areas, which are catered by private distribution licensees (Figure 1.1). WBSEDCL accounts for about 80% of the power supply in the State and caters to almost 18.1 million customers. At present grid connectivity has been extended in every nook and corner of the State covering 99% villages and the low and medium voltage consumer base has seen a significant increase post implementation of rural electrification schemes. However, this has led to a steady increase in Aggregate Technical and Commercial (AT&C) loss levels. To achieve Power for All (PFA) objective, the Government of West Bengal (GoWB) has sought World Bank assistance to support part of their investments in High Voltage Distribution System (HVDS), 33/11 KV GIS, Underground Cabling (UG) across select districts/towns (besides modern technology and institutional capacity building) to facilitate increased availability of power, improve service delivery and reduce system losses. Further the State has planned investments in modern ICT technologies including operational technologies across the complete electricity supply and demand chain to ensure efficiency and monitor reliable supply of power. For implementation of proposed distribution network strengthening project, it is not only mandatory to comply with applicable national & state legislations/regulatory framework on environment and social issues but to carry out due diligence on such issues as per the provisions of World Bank's Environmental and Social Framework (ESF) to meet the overall requirement of sustainable development. To accomplish this, it is imperative to undertake: a) preparation of Environmental and Social Management Framework (ESMF) for proposed project; and b) preparation of Environmental and Social Assessments including Environment & Social Management Plan (ESMP) for each proposed sub-project. 1.2 OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY This Environmental & Social Management Framework (ESMF) defines a mechanism for integrating environmental and social concerns into the planning and execution of proposed West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project (WBEDGMP). The ESMF thus defines processes for planning and implementing the environmental and social safeguards management and lays down the management procedures and protocols for the purpose that P A G E |1 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 1 includes the framework for identification, assessment, and management of environmental and social concerns at both organizational and project/subprojects levels so as to avoid, reduce/minimize and/or mitigate project environmental and social risks and impacts. As a project planning level guidance, the ESMF proposes two stage screening framework to identify environmental and social sensitivities during alignment identification and Distribution Transformer (DTR)& GIS substation site selection. To facilitate this process, tools e.g. analysis of alternative alignment for distribution lines (UG cabling & LT AB cabling) and the sites for DTR and GIS substation, would be designed in the ESMF which would provide inputs for environmentally and socially sustainable design. Simultaneously as part of the processes for the implementation of environmental and social safeguards, the ESMF would also provide the triggers for conducting subproject specific environmental and social assessment and specialised studies e.g. Resettlement Action Plan (RAP), Tribal Development Plan (TDP), Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP), Labor Management Plan (LMP), Gender Development Plan (GDP) and Biodiversity Management Plan. As it is case specific, would be prepared, if applicable. However, ToR for such assessment is prepared and placed as Appendix-7.2. The ESMF also defines the reference framework for WBSEDCL by identifying the provisions of the national and state level legislations, guidelines and the Environmental and Social Standards (ESS) of the World Bank which have to be complied with during the lifecycle of WBEDGMP. Accordingly, the aim of the ESMF is to manage environmental and social risks and impact of the proposed distribution network strengthening projects. The specific objectives include: ➢ To identify & assess the environmental and social risks & impact of the proposed project activities based on the available secondary data as well as information generated during the survey; ➢ To screen &analyse major potential environmental and social risks &impacts associated with the proposed project; ➢ To identify and suggest measures to avoid/reduce/mitigate potential environmental and social impacts; ➢ To prepare appropriate environmental and social management framework, environmental and social management plan, stakeholder engagement plan and other associated safeguard document(as applicable) for the proposed project as per World Bank’s ESS and GoI/GoWB social and environmental legal requirements. Since the complete details of the subprojects are not yet known, carrying out subproject specific ESIA and preparation of project specific ESMP is not possible at this stage Therefore, this ESMF provides guidance for assessing sub project specific E&S Risk & Impacts and also provides triggers for specialized studies e.g. SIA/RAP, TDP & Biodiversity Assessment etc. to be P A G E |2 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 1 conducted when a sub-project encounters such issues for more focused attention/measures. Additionally, guidelines/procedure/plans to address Gender, Labour and Stakeholders issues etc. have also been included in the ESMF. The framework further elaborately describes the institutional mechanism for implementing/monitoring the E&S management during the project execution and operation &maintenance phase. The detailed scope of ESMF is presented in Appendix 1.1. 1.3 PURPOSE OF THE ESMF This Environmental and Social Management Framework (ESMF) is developed as a tool/instrument for assessing, managing and monitoring environmental and social impacts of the Project given that the full nature, scope and geographical locations are not exactly known at the time of preparing the ESMF. The ESMF establishes the screening processes and tools to be directly implemented by WBSEDCL in assessing the risks and impacts of the sub-projects. The main purpose of this ESMF is, therefore, to establish procedures and methodologies for environmental and social screening, assessments and review process for planning mitigative measures for possible impacts of each components/ sub-projects including monitoring and institutional arrangements. 1.4 STRUCTURE OF THE FRAMEWORK The overall structure of the Environment and Social Management Framework (ESMF) for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project (WBEDGMP) follows the guidelines prescribed by applicable National & State laws/rules/guidelines, World Bank’s Environmental and Social Standards (ESS). The framework has been structured into 9 Chapters as hereunder: Executive Summary Chapter 1 – Introduction: This chapter describes background of project and its components; objectives and scope of ESMF; purpose and structure of the ESMF. Chapter 2 – Project Overview: This chapter presents the salient features of the proposed electricity distribution network strengthening project with HVDS, LT AB cabling, underground cabling, construction of 33/11 KV GIS & creation of IT backbone for AMI, AMI& SCADA in Selected Districts/towns of West Bengal in India. Chapter 3 – Policy & Regulatory Framework: This chapter provides an overview of the policy that influences the environmental and social impact and management /mitigation measures. The policies and regulations include National& State laws, regulations and guidelines as well as the World Bank’ ESS. P A G E |3 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 1 Chapter 4 – Approach & Methodology: This chapter describes the approach and methodology adopted in formulation of ESMF for the proposed project. Chapter 5 – Environmental & Social Baseline: This chapter describes baseline environmental & Social setting of the project area, within which the proposed project will be implemented. The baseline environmental & social conditions of the project area have been assessed based on both secondary data and supplemented by primary investigations wherever required. Chapter 6 – Screening of Potential Environmental & Social Impacts and Mitigation Measures: This chapter presents the screening of potential environmental & social impacts of proposed project. The Chapter also includes suggested mitigation measures and ESMP to avoid/minimize the likely impacts during pre-construction, construction and operation phases of proposed sub- projects. Chapter 7 – Institutional Arrangement: This chapter describes the suggested institutional arrangement for ESMF implementation, supervision and monitoring mechanism during project implementation phase. This chapter also presents detail of required capacity building and training with estimated cost. Chapter 8 – Grievance Redressal Mechanism& Stakeholder Engagement Plan: This chapter presents grievance redressal mechanism and stakeholder engagement plan. Chapter 9– Monitoring& Evaluation Plan: This chapter presents Monitoring and Evaluation Plan of implementation. P A G E |4 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 1 FIGURE 1.1: LOCATION OF PROJECT AREA P A G E |5 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 2 2.0 PROJECT OVERVIEW 2.1 PROJECT BACKGROUND West Bengal with a population of around 96 million is the fourth most populous state of India. It has an area of 88,752 sq. km. A major agricultural producer, West Bengal is ranked sixth in terms of contributions to India's net domestic product. West Bengal's nominal Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) at current prices has risen to INR 13.16 trillion or US$180 billion in the year 2018-19. West Bengal's average population in that year being 101.44 million, per capita nominal GSDP at current prices for the economic year 2018-19 can be calculated as US$1800. Agriculture accounts for the largest share of the labour force. The service sector has witnessed a phenomenal growth in last few years. The growth has been driven by trade, hotels, real estate, finance, insurance, transport, communications and other services. The state is now power surplus having no shortage of power supply and ensured 24X7 power supply for all categories of consumers with no discrimination between urban and rural segment. West Bengal implemented power sector reforms envisaged under Electricity Act 2003 by way of unbundling erstwhile State Electricity Board with creation of new companies for Transmission and Distribution business in 2007. State owned Power Generation Company was also formed much earlier. In last six years, huge volume of capacity addition of electricity infrastructure and new electrification of villages and hamlets took place. The no. of consumers has become more than double in last six years. This has resulted in enormous scope for the growth of rural economy. At present grid connectivity has been extended in every nook and corner of the state covering 99% villages and balance will also be covered up shortly. However, the expectation of the consumers has grown very high and everybody expect uninterrupted and quality power supply for 24X7. In order to provide reliable and quality power, the West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project (WBEDGMP), with funding support from the World Bank is being carried out by West Bengal State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (WBSEDCL), which include the following components: (i) Development of High Voltage Distribution System (HVDS) in 14 districts (ii) Construction of 15 nos. 33/11 kV GIS (iii) Conversion of Overhead Network into underground cable system at 5 Towns (iv) Creation of IT backbone by rolling out Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) (v) Implementation of SCADA system P a g e |6 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 2 2.2 PROJECT DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVES The development objective of the proposed project is to improve the reliability and efficiency of electricity supply in the state of West Bengal through strengthening the distribution systems to achieve following goals: (i) Reduction of Aggregate Technical and Commercial (AT & C) Losses. (ii) Improve quality and reliability of power supply with minimal Environmental and Social impacts. 2.3 PROJECT LOCATION The locations of proposed sub-project are presented in Figure 1.1 and Figure 5.1. The HVDS & GIS sub-projects will be executed in 14 Districts of West Bengal in India namely Howrah, East Medinipur, Bankura, Purulia, Nadia, Murshidabad, Malda, North Dinajpur, South Dinajpur, Coochbehar, Alipurduar, Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri. Wheras sub-projects for conversion of existing overhead distribution lines (33/11 kv HT and LT) into underground cabling will be implemented in 5 towns of West Bengal namely Baruipur, Baguihati/Krishnapur, Rajarhat, Asansol, Kharagpur respectively. 2.4 PROJECT DESCRIPTION 2.4.1 Implementing Agency The implementing agency of the project will be West Bengal State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (WBSEDCL). 2.4.2 Co-financing The project will be implemented through financial assistance from the World Bank and counterpart financing by the Government of West Bengal/ WBSEDCL 2.4.3 Project Components The proposed Project comprises of the following components and sub-components: Component I: Development of High Voltage Distribution System (HVDS) in selected districts of WB To reduce LT line loss and improve the HT:LT ratio of the distribution network, it is contemplated to implement HVDS by splitting higher capacity DTR into multiple nos. of lower capacity transformers of 63KVA, 11/0.4KV & 25 KVA, 11/0.4KV at load centers in 14 districts of P a g e |7 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 2 state. For the Semi-Urban area having higher commercial loss, renovation of existing LT line by Aerial Bunched Cable is proposed in the theft prone areas which reduces the length and line loss of existing LT line and enhance safety from electrocution and other electrical hazards to users/public as well as check power theft from overhead lines. Component II: Construction of 33/11KV GIS To improve the power quality as well as the voltage profile, reliability and to overcome the problem of the saturated operation of the existing sub-stations, 15 nos of 33/11 KV GIS across the above 14 districts is to be set up in close proximity of load centers which would require much lesser amount of land with minimal environmental & social impact. Component III: Conversion of Overhead Network into underground cable system To provide reliable, safe and quality power supply with fewer interruptions, less susceptibility to weather conditions and less maintenance costs besides improving the aesthetic view, it has been envisaged to convert the existing Overhead Distribution network in 5 towns of state into underground cabling with Ring Main System for both 11 kV and LT networks and micro- tunnelling in areas having space constraints or RoW issues. It would also reduce power theft and risk of various electrical hazards. As there is SCADA Centre already in place, this will facilitate to improve the power supply status to a great extent. Component IV: Creation of IT backbone by rolling out Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) To provide a robust IT backbone, rolling out of advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI)will be carried out through the use Smart Meters to automatically and remotely measure electricity use, connect and disconnect service, detect tampering and monitor voltage profile. It would thereby reduce the consumer grievances related to metering and billing, thereby enhancing consumer satisfaction. Component V: Implementation of SCADA system Implementation of SCADA system to monitor, gather, process and record real time data of distribution network using IT hardware components namely, servers, storage devices, routers and other associated equipment. It would help restore the power service during fault condition and also maintain the desired operating conditions, thereby providing smooth and efficient distribution of power to the consumers. The detail of key elements of sub-projects under WBEDGMP is presented in Appendix 2.1. P a g e |8 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 2 2.5 PROJECT BENEFICIARIES The Project aims to provide reliable, safe and quality power with improvement in voltage profile to the semi urban and rural consumers of the project Districts and Towns of West Bengal. The project is expected to benefit more than 10 million people of West Bengal. 2.6 DETAILS OF CAPITAL EXPENDITURE Table 2.1 summarizes the capital expenditure proposed under the project: TABLE 2.1: COMPONENT WISE DETAIL OF CAPITAL EXPENDITURE OF PROPOSED PROJECT Sl Project cost Project Cost Component No (Rs Cr) (USD million) Distribution infrastructure Strengthening Implementation of HVDS with conversion of LT OH 1 line of bare conductor by LT AB cable in 14 Districts 1080.54 153.88 of West Bengal 2 Construction of 15 nos 33/11 KV GIS sub-station 180 25.63 Conversion of Overhead network into underground 3 1030 146.68 cable system at Sub-total 2290.54 326.19 Creation of IT backbone for rolling out AMI & SCADA system under WBSEDCL Creation of IT backbone by installation of IT hardware 4 450 64.08 for rolling out AMI &SCADA system Innovative schemes for Distribution system 5 50 7.12 strengthening 6 Capacity building of WBSEDCL officials 10 1.42 Sub-total 510 72.62 Total 2800.54 398.82 P a g e |9 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 3 3.0 POLICY & REGULATORY FRAMEWORK India has a wide range of environmental and social policies, legislations, and regulations to handle/manage E&S issues associated with different types of projects. However, many of these regulations are not applicable to present project due to the nature of project activities and demonstrable E&S impacts. A review of applicable national and state level laws and regulations has been undertaken to understand the applicability of these laws to the proposed projects. Additionally, the relevant guidelines prepared by the state power utilities, for planning, construction and operations of the sub-stations and distribution lines were also reviewed. The World Bank’s Environmental and Social Standards applicability for proposed projects components has been identified and gaps in national or state regulations to be considered while formulation of ESMF. 3.1 LEGAL & REGULATORY FRAMEWORK The applicable acts, rules, and relevant policies in the context of the project are presented in Table 3.1 and 3.2. WBSEDCL will ensure that project activities implemented are consistent with provisions of such legal framework. TABLE 3.1: LEGAL AND REGULATORY PROVISIONS – ENVIRONMENT Acts, Notifications Sl. No. Relevance/ Applicability to the project and Policies I. Constitutional Provisions (India) a. Article 48 A The State shall endeavor to protect and improve the environment and to safeguard the forests and wildlife of the country. b. Article 51 A (g) It shall be the duty of every citizen of India to protect and improve the natural environment including forests, lakes, rivers and wildlife and to have compassion for living creatures. II. Provisions Law of the Land/Rules 1. Electricity Act, 2003 Electricity distribution network projects are constructed under the ambit (EA, 2003) of Electricity Act, 2003 following the provisions of Section 67 & 68 of act. Under the provisions of Section 68(1):-Prior approval of the Govt. of West Bengal (GoWB) is a mandatory requirement to undertake any distribution project of 33kV system in the State which authorizes WBSEDCL to plan and coordinate activities to commission a distribution project. The electricity act under Section 164 has a provision to grant licensee the power of Telegraph Authority as provided in the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885. GoWB, on request of WBSEDCL, may by order in writing/through notification authorize them for using powers of telegraph authority after P A G E | 10 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 3 Acts, Notifications Sl. No. Relevance/ Applicability to the project and Policies fulfilling the requirement as laid down in the rules thereof. The salient features of the Electricity Act 2003 are given in Appendix 3.1. 2. Forest (Conservation) This Act provides for the conservation of forests and regulates the Act, 1980 diversion of forest land to non-forestry purpose. When any transmission/distribution line traverses forest land, prior clearance is mandatorily required from Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF), GoI under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. The approval process of forest clearance in brief, as per set procedure in the guideline under the act and rules and procedure of online submission of application are provided in Appendix 3.1. 3. Wild Life (Protection) Act, This act provides protection and conservation of rare and endangered 1972 species in protected areas (as mentioned in Sch I-Sch IV of Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 including IUCN Red List Categories). Detailed lists of rare and endangered species as per IUCN Red List Categories are provided in Appendix 3.1. 4. Environment It is umbrella legislation for the protection and improvement of (Protection) Act, environment. This Act as such is not applicable to transmission/ 1986 distribution projects of WBSEDCL. Project categories specified under the schedule of the EIA notification is provided in Appendix 3.1. Even then some limited compliance measures notified under this EPA, 1986 are to be adhered to relevant rules and regulations under the EPA, 1986 applicable to the operations of WBSEDCL. i. Hazardous & Other As per notification, used oil is categorized as hazardous waste and require Wastes proper handling, storage and disposed only to authorized disposal facility (Management and (registered recyclers/ re-processors) Being a bulk user, WBSEDCL shall Transboundary comply with provision of said rules. WBSEDCL, as bulk user of transformer Movement) Rules, oil which is categorized as Hazardous Waste, shall comply with the 2016 provisions of the said rules (refer Appendix 3.1 for MoEF&CC notification dated 4th April 2016) if the practice of storing of used oil is maintained. In case it is decided to outsource the process of recycle of used oil to registered recycler as per the provisions of notification then WBSEDCL shall submit the desired return in prescribed form to concerned State Pollution Control Board at the time of disposal of used oil. ii. E-waste As per notification, bulk consumers like WBSEDCL is to dispose e-waste (Management) Rules, generated by them in environmentally sound manner by channelizing to 2016 authorized collection centers/ registered dismantler/ recyclers/return to producers. WBSEDCL, being a bulk consumer of electrical and electronics equipments shall maintain record as per Form-2 (Appendix 3.1) for scrutiny by West Bengal State Pollution Control Board. iii. Batteries As per notification, Being, a bulk consumer, WBSEDCL is to ensure that (Management and the used batteries are disposed to dealers, manufacturer, registered Handling) Rules, recycler, re-conditioners or at the designated collection centers only. A 2001 half-yearly return is to be filed as per Form-8 (Appendix 3.1) to the West Bengal State Pollution Control Board iv. Ozone Depleting As per the notification, certain control and regulation has been imposed Substances on manufacturing, import, export, and use of these compounds. (Regulation and Control) Rules, P A G E | 11 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 3 Acts, Notifications Sl. No. Relevance/ Applicability to the project and Policies 2000 5. Biological This act is not directly applicable to electricity distribution projects Diversity Act, 2002 because it deals with the conservation of biological diversity, sustainable use of its components and fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising out of the use of biological resources, knowledge and for matters connected therewith. WBSEDCL abides by the provision of the Act wherever applicable and avoids Biosphere Reserves and other Protected Area as well as Elephant Corridors during route alignment. 6. West Bengal Trees The Act restrict felling of trees in Non-Forest Areas without permission of (Protection and Department of Forest, GoWB. WBSEDCL abides by all provisions of this Conservation in Non- Act for felling/cutting of trees in non-forest area. Forest Areas) Act, 2006 7. The Right to The Act provides for setting out the practical regime of right to Information Act, information for citizens to secure access to information under the control 2005 of public authorities, in order to promote transparency and accountability in the working of every public authority, the constitution of a Central Information Commission and State Information Commissions and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto. 8. The West Bengal Ground For extraction of ground water, permission has to be obtained from the Water Resources District Level Authority / Corporation Level Authority / State Level (Management, Control Authority. The application in Form-I along with payment of prescribed And Regulation) fees to the Geologist of the State Water Investigation Directorate, Govt. (Amendment) Act, 2005 of West Bengal of the district concerned or Superintendent Geologist, State Water Investigation Directorate, Govt. of West Bengal depending on the amount of groundwater wqter extraction required. As in the proposed sub-project water requirement is proposed to be met from the recycled water. However, in case groundwater extraction is required for proposed GIS substation the applicable required clearance would be taken from the concerned authority. TABLE 3.2: LEGAL AND REGULATORY PROVISIONS – SOCIAL Acts, Notifications Sl. No. Relevance/ Applicability to the project and Policies I. Constitutional Provisions 1 Fifth Schedule of the Constitution It provides protection to the tribal on account of their economic disadvantages so that they could maintain their tribal identity without any coercion or exploitation. It also deals with the control and administration of the Schedule Areas. II. Provisions Law of the Land/Rules 2. Land Purchase Policy of GoWB, It was enacted for procurement of land required for important 2016 infrastructure projects to ensure the timely implementation of such projects where, direct land purchase from land owners may become necessary. WBSEDCL will abide by this policy for procurement of land for GIS, if required. The salient features of the provisions of this policy are given in Appendix 3.2. P A G E | 12 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 3 Acts, Notifications Sl. No. Relevance/ Applicability to the project and Policies 3. The Right to Fair Compensation The Act provides for enhanced compensation and assistances and Transparency in Land measures and adopts a more consultative and participatory Acquisition, Rehabilitation and approach in dealing with the Project Affected Persons. As and Resettlement Act, 2013 when this Act becomes effective and is adopted by the State of West Bengal, then WBSEDCL, too shall be bound by and would need to comply with relevant provisions of the Act. The salient features of the provisions of the new RFCTLARRA, 2013 are given in Appendix 3.2. 5. Rights of Way In case of agricultural or private land damages, Section-67 and or (RoW) and Compensation Section-68 (5 & 6) of the Electricity Act, 2003 and Section-10 of the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885 if vested with power under section 164 of the Electricity Act, are followed for assessment and payment of compensation towards such damage. 6. The Scheduled Tribes and Other The act recognizes and vests the forest rights and occupation in Traditional Forest forst land to forest dwelling. Scheduled Tribes and other Dwellers (Recognition of traditional forest dwellers who have been residing in such forests Forest Rights) Act, 2006 for generations but whose rights could not be recorded, and provides for a framework for recording the forest rights so vested and the nature of evidence required for such recognition and vesting in respect of forest land. The definitions of forest dwelling Schedule Tribes, forestland, forest rights, forest villages, etc. have been included in Section 2 of the Act. The Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs is the nodal agency for implementation of the Act while field implementation is the responsibility of the government agencies. The applicability of the act linked with forest clearance process under Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 w.e.f. August 2009 by MoEF shall be followed by WBSEDCL if required. 8. Indian Treasure Trove Act, 1878 as The Act provides for procedures to be followed in case of finding amended in 1949 of any treasure, archaeological artifacts etc. during excavation. Possibilities of such discoveries are quite remote due to limited and shallow excavations. However, in case of such findings WBSEDCL will follow the laid down procedure in the Section-4 of Act. 9. Ancient Monuments & The act has been enacted to prevent damage to archaeological Archaeological Sites and Remains sites identified by Archaeological Survey of India. Act, 1958 During route alignment, all possible efforts are made to avoid these areas. Wherever it becomes unavoidable, WBSEDCL will take necessary permission under this act. 10. The West Bengal Ancient This Act prevents construction of building or carrying out any Monuments and Records Rule, activity e.g. Excavating, blasting or any operation of a like nature 1964 inside archaeological site. WBSEDCL shall comply with the requirements of this rule. P A G E | 13 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 3 Acts, Notifications Sl. No. Relevance/ Applicability to the project and Policies III. Occupational Health & Safety 1. The Factories Act, 1948 This act provides occupational health & safety of the workers. The Occupational Health & Safety (OHS) Code have been formulated by the Govt. of India & once the rules under this code will be framed the occupational health & safety issues would be dealt as per the new OHS Code. 3.2 WORLD BANK ENVIRONMENTAL & SOCIAL STANDARDS (ESS) The applicable World Bank’s ESSs in the context of the project are presented in subsequent section. WBSEDCL will ensure that project activities implemented are consistent with provisions of these ESSs. ESS 1: Assessment and Management of Environmental and Social Risks and Impacts The Bank requires assessment and management of environmental and social risks and impact of projects under Bank financing to ensure that they are environmentally sound and sustainable. ESS1 suggests adopting mitigation hierarchy approach to anticipate and avoid risks and impacts, where avoidance is not possible minimize the risks and impacts to acceptable level and compensate for significant residual impact where techno-economically viable. This would require various tools like ESIA, Environment Audit, Hazard and Risk Assessment, Social and Conflict analysis, Environmental & Social Management Plan (ESMP), Environmental & Social Management Framework (ESMF), Strategic Environmental & Social Assessment (SESA), Environmental & Social Commitment Plan (ESCP) and subsequently monitoring and reporting the issues depending on the complexity of the project. The level of assessment required would be determined by a screening and scoping exercise. ESS 2: Labor and working conditions The ESS 2 on Labor and working condition requires promoting worker-management healthy relationship, developing strategies to improve working condition like fair treatment of workers and vulnerable groups that are involved in the project and preventing all forms of forced and child labors. This standard is applicable to project workers including full time, part time, temporary, contractual and migrant worker. This standard helps to monitor health of the worker, working condition, hours of work and other necessary requirements including grievance mechanism and measures related to Occupational Health and Safety and shall be complied in accordance with ESS. P A G E | 14 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 3 ESS 3: Resource Efficiency and Pollution Prevention and Management The ESS 3 on Resource Efficiency and Pollution Prevention and Management promotes the sustainable use of resources (i.e. Energy, Water, Raw Materials) by identifying, avoiding or minimizing adverse impact both long term & short term caused by different pollutants on Health and Environment. The Standard also includes both Hazardous and Non-hazardous Waste Generation through minimizing and managing risks associated during entire life cycle of the Project. ESS 4: Community Health and Safety The ESS 4 on Community Health and Safety recognizes the exposure to risks and impacts that may cause due to project activities. Therefore, anticipating and avoidance of adverse impact on communities affected by the project from both routine and non-routine circumstances should be done. Accordingly designs & constructions to be modified that will ensure quality and safety to the community in conformance with climate change. Comprehensive Risk Hazard assessment and emergency action plan should be prepared in coordination with local authorities and affected communities. ESS 5: Land Acquisition, Restrictions on Land Use and Involuntary Resettlement The ESS 5 on Land Acquisition, Restrictions on Land Use and Involuntary Resettlement emphasizes for avoidance or minimization of involuntary resettlement or forced eviction to the extent it is feasible by exploring all viable alternative project designs. Where involuntary resettlement is not viable, appropriate mitigation will be taken in accordance to sustainable development programs to alleviate the adverse impacts on displaced persons by providing timely compensation and at-least restoring their livelihood and improving their living standard to pre-displacement levels or to levels prevailing prior to the beginning of project implementation, whichever is higher. The Resettlement activities shall be executed by providing sufficient investment for displaced person who will be directly benefitted for the project and they should be meaningfully consulted and should have opportunities to participate in planning and implementation of resettlement programs. ESS 6: Biodiversity Conservation and Sustainable Management of Living Natural Resources This ESS affirms World Bank’s commitment to protect and support conservation of biodiversity and natural habitat, application of mitigation hierarchy, designing and implementation of remedial measures that affects biodiversity. Sustainable management of the project should be done to provide benefit and to minimize damaging effects of the project as the bank does not support projects that involve significant conversion or degradation of critical natural habitats. P A G E | 15 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 3 This policy ensures the need to support livelihood of local communities through adoptive practices that can integrate conservation and development of the project area. ESS 7: Indigenous peoples/Sub-Saharan African Historically Underserved Traditional Local Communities The World Bank’s ESS 7 on Indigenous peoples/Sub-Saharan African Historically Underserved Traditional Local Communities contributes to the mission of poverty reduction and sustainable development by ensuring that the development process shall fully respects the dignity, aspirations, identity, human rights, economies, and cultures of tribal People (Indigenous Peoples) and providing them natural resource-based livelihood. Additional mitigative measures to be taken for avoiding adverse impact on underserved local communities. Sustainable developmental policies and opportunities that are culturally inclusive and appropriate for them should be fostered. Improvisation of the project design should be done through consultation and maintenance of constructive relationship with the indigenous community and their local bodies affected throughout the project’s life cycle. It is necessary to obtain Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) from the affected community during project assessment if any significant impact on land and natural resources are subjected to traditional ownership (like material to the identity and/or cultural, ceremonial or spiritual) or under customary use or occupation, thus providing them opportunity to adapt to the changing condition in an acceptable time frame. The standard suggests the following steps to be followed for the purpose: Early Screening: Early in project preparation, a screening is carried out to determine whether Tribal Peoples are present in, or have collective attachment to, the project area; Social Assessment: Based on the screening the project authority needs to undertake social assessment to evaluate the project’s potential positive and adverse effects in the Tribal Population (TP). Consultation and Participation: Where the project affects Tribal Peoples, the project authority engages in free, prior, and informed consultation with them. Tribal Peoples Planning Framework (TPPF)/ Tribal Development Plan (TDP): On the basis of the social assessment and in consultation with the affected Tribal (Indigenous) Pe oples’ communities, the project authority prepares a Tribal Peoples Planning Framework (TPPF)/Tribal Development Plan (TDP) that sets out the measures through which the project authority will ensure that (a) tribal Peoples affected by the project receive culturally appropriate social and economic benefits; and (b) when potential adverse effects on Tribal Peoples are identified, P A G E | 16 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 3 those adverse effects are avoided, minimized, mitigated, or compensated for. The TPPF/TDP is to be integrated into project design. ESS 8: Cultural Heritage The ESS 8 on Cultural Heritage recognizes that cultural heritage provides continuity in tangible and intangible forms between the past, present and future. The objective of the standard is to integrate sustainable development and protection of cultural heritage from adverse impact of the project by providing meaningful consultation and promoting equitable share of benefits with reference to the PCR. This standard tries to preserve Physical Cultural Resources (PCR) and in avoiding their destruction or damage. PCR includes resources of archaeological, paleontological, historical, architectural, and religious (including graveyards and burial sites), aesthetic, or other cultural significance. Accordingly, this standard sets out measures designed to protect cultural heritage throughout the project life cycle. ESS 10: Stakeholder Engagement and Information Disclosure This standard requires Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP) for projects under Bank financing for open and transparent engagement with project stakeholders to improve the environmental and social sustainability of project. The effective SEP helps to identify the main stakeholders of the project and mechanism for public consultation and information disclosure as well as grievance redressal system. 3.3 WORLD BANK’S ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL RISK CLASSIFICATION As per World Bank’s ESF any proposed project may fall into one of four category: High Risk, Substantial Risk, Moderate Risk or Low Risk. In determining the appropriate risk classification, it takes into account relevant issues, such as the type, location, sensitivity, and scale of the project; the nature and magnitude of the potential environmental and social risks and impacts; and the capacity and commitment of the Borrower (including any other entity responsible for the implementation of the project) to manage the environmental and social risks and impacts in a manner consistent with the ESSs. Other areas of risk may also be relevant to the delivery of environmental and social mitigation measures and outcomes, depending on the specific project and the context in which it is being developed. Accordingly, as per the initial risk assessment the sub-component I& II i.e. Conversion of LVDS to HVDS and setting up of GIS as well as UGC sub-projects are classified as Low to moderate Risk. This is due to the fact that the potential adverse risks and impacts are not likely to be significant. As this sub-project does not involve any activities which may have high potential for harming people or the environment and is located away from environmentally or socially sensitive areas. As such, the likely impacts and risks are likely to have the following characteristics: P A G E | 17 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 3 ➢ predictable and expected to be temporary and/or reversible; ➢ very low in magnitude that can be addressed with proposed mitigative measures; ➢ site-specific, without likelihood of impacts beyond the actual footprint of the project; ➢ Very low probability of serious adverse effects to human health and/or the environment (e.g. do not involve use or disposal of toxic materials, routine safety precautions are expected to be sufficient to prevent accidents, etc.). . P A G E | 18 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 3 3.4 COMPARISION BETWEEN ESF AND NATIONAL & STATE REQUIREMENT Table 3.3 presents comparison between objectives of World Bank’s Environmental & Social Standards and respective National and State Environmental & Social Regulations as well as gaps if any as per ESS’s objectives and recommended actions. TABLE 3.3: COMPARATIVE ASSESSMENT OF NATIONAL & STATE ENVIRONMENTAL & SOCIAL REGULATIONS WITH WORLD BANK’s ESS s Sl. National & State Laws and ESF Objectives Gaps Recommended Actions No. Requirements ESS 1: Assessment and Management of Environmental and Social Risks and Impacts 1. Objectives of ESS 1 are: • The Environment No significant gaps Scoping of key environmental and social risks and To identify, evaluate and manage (Protection) Act, 1986. between ESS 1 and impacts of the Project has been undertaken and the environment and social risks and • The Environment national & state laws appropriate mitigation measures identified, as laid impacts of the project in a manner Impact Assessment out in this ESMF. consistent with the ESSs. Notification, 2006 and There are no gaps The provision of detailed ESIA process described in To adopt a mitigation hierarchy amended till date. between the National ESMF aims to address the biophysical and socio- approach to: • Hazardous & Other Environmental economic issues associated with the Project and (a) Anticipate and avoid risks and Wastes (Management Appraisal and World utilize broad stakeholder consultation in the impacts; and Transboundary Bank procedures in the preparation of the Project and follows the (b) Where avoidance is not possible, • Movement) Rules, 2016 screening process. implementation of the SEP. WBEDGMP further minimize or reduce risks and impacts • E-waste (Management) promotes sustainable development and prescribes to acceptable levels; Rules, 2016 the requirement of activity-specific ESMPs, where (c) Once risks and impacts have been • Batteries (Management applicable. minimized or reduced, mitigate; and and Handling) Rules, (d) Where significant residual 2001 impacts remain, compensate for or Sub-project specific ESIAs will be conducted prior to offset them, where technically and • Ozone Depleting the implementation of activities. financially feasible. Substances (Regulation and Control) Rules, Bulk consumer, as defined in rules, only include To adopt differentiated measures so 2000 consumer using/procuring 100 or more batteries at that adverse impacts do not fall one place. Its applicability to sub-project activities disproportionately on the shall be ascertained during project specific ESIA for disadvantaged or vulnerable, and compliance. they are not disadvantaged in P A G E | 19 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 3 Sl. National & State Laws and ESF Objectives Gaps Recommended Actions No. Requirements sharing development benefits and Ozone depleting substances are already phased out opportunities resulting from the in all equipment installed under projects and it will project. also be included in contract document to ensure its full compliance. To utilize national environmental and social institutions, systems, This Project will apply waste management guidelines laws, regulations and procedures in in all relevant activities. the assessment, development and implementation of projects, whenever appropriate. To promote improved environmental and social performance, in ways which recognize and enhance Borrower capacity. ESS 2: Labour and Working Conditions 2 The Objectives of ESS 2 are: • The Factories Act, 1948 There are no gaps The Project includes small-scale construction work, To promote safety and health at between national including setting up GIS and UG Cabling Network. work. • Minimum Wages Act, legislation for OHS and 1948 ESS 2 Sub-component activities will employ contracted To promote the fair treatment, non- Whereas some National workers who will be subject to the Project LMP, GRM discrimination and equal • Contract Labour legislation only applies and the World Bank Group Environment, Health and opportunity of project workers. (Regulation & for formal sector Safety Guidelines in compliance with ESS 2. Abolition) workers, who are To protect project workers, including engaged with contracts. The Project worker will adhere to minimum wages. vulnerable workers such as women, • The Sexual Harassment persons with disabilities, children (of of Women at The Project will provide GRM for community as well working age, in accordance with this Workplace as contracted workers. ESS) and migrant workers, (Prevention, contracted workers, community Prohibition and Additionally, each sub-project contractor will prepare workers and primary supply Redressal) Act, 2013 a Construction-ESMP with labour protocol to address workers, as appropriate. such issues. P A G E | 20 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 3 Sl. National & State Laws and ESF Objectives Gaps Recommended Actions No. Requirements • Bonded Labour System To prevent the use of all forms of (Abolition) Act, 1976 forced labor and child labor. • The Payment of Wages To support the principles of freedom Act 1936 amended in of association and collective 2017 bargaining of project workers in a manner consistent with national law. • The Child Labour (Prohibition and To provide project workers with Regulation) Act, 1986 accessible means to raise workplace concerns. • Grievance Redressal Policy Under Industrial Disputes Amendment Act,1976 • Compensation Act,1923 • Employees state Migrant Workmen Act,1979 • Maternity Benefit Act,1961 • Intimation of Accident ( Forms and Times of service of notice) Rules , 2004 P A G E | 21 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 3 Sl. National & State Laws and ESF Objectives Gaps Recommended Actions No. Requirements ESS 3: Resource Efficiency and Pollution Prevention and Management 3 The Objectives of ESS 3 are: • The Environment There are no significant The Project will improve the availability and quality (Protection) Act, 1986. gaps between ESS 3 and of power in project area. It aims for resource To promote the sustainable use of national laws efficiency in the reduction of AT&C losses and other resources, including energy, water natural resource like forest, water etc. through and raw materials. innovative means like using treated water for construction activity to the extent possible in line To avoid or minimize adverse with provision of ESS 3. impacts on human health and the • Hazardous & Other The Project will also develop and implement environment by avoiding or measures and procedures for managing waste and Wastes (Management and minimizing pollution from project hazardous materials during construction and Transboundary activities. operation phase of project. Movement) Rules, 2016 To avoid or minimize project-related emissions of short and long-lived National Environmental climate pollutants. Policy, 2006 Setting up of GIS and UG cabling Network activities will be based on a screening process, as well as ESIAs To avoid or minimize generation of and ESMPs, where applicable. Activities will be hazardous and non-hazardous compliant with the Act and with ESS 3. waste. Contractors will prepare a waste management plan as part of the C-ESMP. To minimize and manage the risks and impacts associated with pesticide use. ESS 4: Community Health and Safety 4 The Objectives of ESS 4 are: Motor Vehicle There are no significant Although the Project aims to improve the lives of To anticipate and avoid adverse (Amendment) Act, 2019 gaps between ESS 4 and millions of people in rural and sub-urban as well as impacts on the health and safety of national laws and urban area, it needs to be ensured that Project project-affected communities during Measure relating to safety regulations. The activities do not pose any unintended negative the project life-cycle from both and Electrical supply requirements of laws consequences on communities primarily during routine and non-routine Regulation 2010 and safety regulations construction period. A dedicated health and safety circumstances. along with other anti management plan will be developed. pollution laws / P A G E | 22 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 3 Sl. National & State Laws and ESF Objectives Gaps Recommended Actions No. Requirements To promote quality and safety, and standards provide Several measures will be undertaken by the considerations relating to climate sufficient protection to WBSEDCL, including requiring contractors to develop change, in the design and all communities both road safety management plan and a Health and construction of infrastructure, affected & not affected Safety Plan as part of the C-ESMP to address the including dams. from any health and impacts on local communities of moving construction safety issues. equipment; measures and actions developed to To avoid or minimize community assess and manage specific risks and impacts outlined exposure to project-related traffic in the ESMF and subsequent ESMPs. and road safety risks, diseases and hazardous materials. All activities will be compliant with the applicable c regulations and ESS 4. To have in place effective measures to address emergency events. To ensure that the safeguarding of personnel and property is carried out in a manner that avoids or minimizes risks to the project- affected communities. ESS 5: Land Acquisition, Restrictions on Land Use and Involuntary Resettlement 5. The Objectives of ESS 5 are: The provisions of The legislations and policy related to land acquisition To avoid involuntary resettlement • Government of West national act are more and resettlement & rehabilitation as well as or, when unavoidable, minimize Bengal Land Procurement stringent and take care provisions of ESS 5 may not be attracted as no involuntary resettlement by Policy, 2016 of all possible involuntary land acquisition is envisaged in the exploring project design alternatives. shortcomings including project. Only Government land is likely to be secured • The Right to Fair detailed SIA, Public for setting up of GIS and in case of private land, direct To avoid forced eviction. Compensation and consultation/disclosure purchase on the principle of willing buyer-willing Transparency in Land and very liberal seller on negotiated rate using provisions of West To mitigate unavoidable adverse Acquisition, Rehabilitation compensation Bengal land purchase policy shall only be used. social and economic impacts from and Resettlement Act, assessment process to land acquisition or restrictions on 2013 (LARR 2013) make it at par with land use by: (a) providing timely replacement cost compensation for loss of assets at coupled with R&R P A G E | 23 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 3 Sl. National & State Laws and ESF Objectives Gaps Recommended Actions No. Requirements replacement cost and (b) assisting provisions making it displaced persons in their efforts to fully comparable with improve, or at least restore, their Bank’s ESS requirement. livelihoods and living standards, in Moreover, the land real terms, to pre-displacement requirement for setting levels or to levels prevailing prior to GIS substation is quite the beginning of project small (less than 1 acre) implementation, whichever is for which such act may higher. not be applicable. To improve living conditions of poor or vulnerable persons who are physically displaced, through provision of adequate housing, access to services and facilities, and security of tenure. To conceive and execute resettlement activities as sustainable development programs, providing sufficient investment resources to enable displaced persons to benefit directly from the project, as the nature of the project may warrant. To ensure that resettlement activities are planned and implemented with appropriate disclosure of information, meaningful consultation, and the informed participation of those affected. P A G E | 24 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 3 Sl. National & State Laws and ESF Objectives Gaps Recommended Actions No. Requirements ESS 6: Biodiversity Conservation and Sustainable Management of Living Natural Resources 6 The Objectives of ESS 6 are: • Wild Life (Protection) Act, There are no significant It is anticipated that the existing route alignment with To protect and conserve biodiversity 1972 gaps between ESS 6 and appropriate mitigative measures will be undertaken and habitats. • The Biological Diversity national laws. for conservation of vegetation/biodiversity and other living natural resources in order to be fully compliant Act, 2002 To apply the mitigation hierarchy4 This act takes care of with this statutory instrument. and the precautionary approach in • West Bengal Biological protection and the design and implementation of Diversity Rules, 2005 conservation of rare The sub-project will implement activity-specific projects that could have an impact • Forest Conservation and endangered species screening procedures for biodiversity risks and no on biodiversity. Act,1980 in protected areas (as impacts likely to occur from the activity. • Forest Conservation mentioned in Sch I-Sch To promote the sustainable Rules, 2003 (as amended) IV of Wild Life management of living natural (Protection) Act, 1972 • MoEFCC Guideline dated resources. including IUCN Red List 5thMay 2015 (letter no. Categories). To support livelihoods of local F.No. 7- 25/2012-FC) for communities, including Indigenous laying distribution line Forestry concerns are Peoples, and inclusive economic through forest areas defined as conversion of development, through the adoption • Supreme Court Orders forest land to other use, of practices that integrate Dated 30.10.2002 in while the WBSEDCL will conservation needs and implement HVDS respect of Compensatory development priorities. primarily through Afforestation Fund in I.A. existing distribution No. 566 In WP(C) No. network in forest and 202/1995; and Supreme other ecological Court’s Order dated sensitive area. 1.8.2003 in I.A. No. 826 & 859 in I.A. No. 566 in Write Petition (Civil) No.202 • MoEFCC Guideline dated 9th February [F. No. 1-9/2007 WL- I (pt)] P A G E | 25 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 3 Sl. National & State Laws and ESF Objectives Gaps Recommended Actions No. Requirements regarding guidelines for declaration of eco- sensitive zones around National Parks and Wildlife • The Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006 regarding compliance on livelihood impacts of community dependent of particular forest land ESS 7: Indigenous Peoples/Sub-Saharan African Historically underserved Traditional Local Communities 7 The Objectives of ESS 7 are: Schedule Tribes and other There are no significant No Indigenous/Tribal People are likely to be affected To ensure that the development Traditional Forest gaps between ESS 7 and in majority of sub-projects however, if any sub- process fosters full respect for the Dwellers ( Recognition of national laws project is likely to affect any Indigenous/Tribal people human rights, dignity, aspirations, Forest Rights) Act 2006 the sub-project specific TDP would be prepared in identity, culture, and natural accordance with TPPF and ESS7 and Implemented. resource-based livelihoods of The Right To Fair Indigenous Peoples/Sub-Saharan Compensation And African Historically Underserved Transparency In Land Traditional Local Communities. Acquisition, Rehabilitation And Resettlement Act, To avoid adverse impacts of projects 2013 on Indigenous Peoples/Sub-Saharan African Historically Underserved Traditional Local Communities, or when avoidance is not possible, to minimize, mitigate and/or compensate for such impacts. To promote sustainable development benefits and P A G E | 26 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 3 Sl. National & State Laws and ESF Objectives Gaps Recommended Actions No. Requirements opportunities for Indigenous Peoples/Sub-Saharan African Historically Underserved Traditional Local Communities in a manner that is accessible, culturally appropriate and inclusive. To improve project design and promote local support by establishing and maintaining an ongoing relationship based on meaningful consultation with the Indigenous Peoples/Sub-Saharan African Historically Underserved Traditional Local Communities affected by a project throughout the project’s life-cycle. To obtain the Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC) of affected Indigenous Peoples/Sub-Saharan African Historically Underserved Traditional Local Communities in the three circumstances described in this ESS. To recognize, respect and preserve the culture, knowledge, and practices of Indigenous Peoples/Sub- Saharan African Historically Underserved Traditional Local Communities, and to provide them with an opportunity to adapt to P A G E | 27 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 3 Sl. National & State Laws and ESF Objectives Gaps Recommended Actions No. Requirements changing conditions in a manner and in a timeframe acceptable to them. ESS 8: Cultural Heritage 8 The Objectives of ESS 8 are: • Ancient Monuments & There are no significant No major impact on any cultural heritage sites is To protect cultural heritage from the Archaeological Sites and gaps between ESS 8 and anticipated under the Project; however, in case of adverse impacts of project activities Remains Act,1958 national laws any chance findings at the sub-project level, the same and support its preservation. • Indian Treasure Trove will be handled as per the available guidelines. Act,1878 as amended in To address cultural heritage as an integral aspect of sustainable 1949 development. • West Bengal Ancient Monuments and To promote meaningful consultation Archaeological Sites, with stakeholders regarding cultural Remains and Art heritage. Treasures Act,2016. • The West Bengal To promote the equitable sharing of Ancient Monuments benefits from the use of cultural and Records Rule, 1964 heritage. ESS 9: Financial Intermediaries 9 The Objectives of ESS 9 are: n/a n/a To set out how the FI will assess and manage environmental and social risks and impacts associated with the subprojects it finances. To promote good environmental and social management practices in the subprojects the FI finances. To promote good environmental and sound human resources management within the FI. ESS 10: Stakeholder Engagement and Information Disclosure 10 The Objectives of ESS 10 are: The Right to Information While the Act spells out This process of consultation has already commenced P A G E | 28 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 3 Sl. National & State Laws and ESF Objectives Gaps Recommended Actions No. Requirements To establish a systematic approach Act, 2005 and provision of right to information during the ESMF development to know the people’s to stakeholder engagement that will mandatory public held by public bodies, opinion about project. However, a detailed help Borrowers identify stakeholders consultation with all the public consultation Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP) with mapping and build and maintain a stakeholders in EPA, 1986 required under EPA and out all the different types of stakeholders, timings constructive relationship with them, and RCTLARR-2013 RCLARR, 2013 requires and modes of communication and consultation has in particular project-affected parties. . involvement of local also been prepared for implementation during ESIA people in planning and and project execution. The Plan linked the GRM with To assess the level of stakeholder finalization of project the SEP to address the issue of transparency and interest and support for the project along with minimization feedback. and to enable stakeholders’ views to of likely potential be taken into account in project impact of proposed design and environmental and social project activities. ESS 10 performance. recognizes the importance of open and . To promote and provide means for transparent effective and inclusive engagement engagement vis-à-vis with project-affected parties project stakeholders by throughout the project life-cycle on the borrower issues that could potentially affect them. To ensure that appropriate project information on environmental and social risks and impacts is disclosed to stakeholders in a timely, understandable, accessible and appropriate manner and format. To provide project-affected parties with accessible and inclusive means to raise issues and grievances, and allow Borrowers to respond to and manage such grievances. P A G E | 29 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 4 4.0 APPROACH & METHODOLOGY The approach and methodology adopted for formulation of Environment and Social Management Framework (ESMF) for the proposed project i.e. WBEDGMP is presented in Figure 4.1. FIGURE 4.1: METHODOLOGY ADOPTED FOR FORMULATION OF ESMF Due diligence & Monitoring & Consultation Scoping Evaluation Plan Policy & Institutional Regulatory Disclosure Arrangements Framework Identification of Grievance Redressal Identify Capacity Cost Area of Influence Mechanism & Building & Estimation of the Project Stakeholders Training Engagement Plan Requirement Assessment of Screening of Potential Impacts Environmental & & Mitigation Measures, ESMP Social Baseline along with GDP, RPF, TPPF, LMP & SEP 4.1 DUE DILIGENCE & SCOPING The ESMF has been prepared generating information through both primary and secondary sources including consultations and library research. Detailed activities planned under each sub-project were identified and listed. This information has been primarily collected from initial discussions with the identified project implementation team of WBSEDCL along with representatives of REPDCL (DPR consultants) & other stakeholders. Secondary data sources P A G E | 30 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 4 such as preliminary detailed project reports, sample site survey and assessment sheets, identified investment planning and related project schedule plans provided by the WBSEDCL were also used. In addition, preliminary impact assessments for sub-projects/schemes identified and environmental and social documentation for similar previous projects undertaken by WBSEDCL have also informed the preparation of ESMF. The basic approach broadly involved following: ➢ Review of environment & social baseline information from secondary sources; ➢ Review of existing national & state specific legislations and policy and guidelines and Environmental & Social Standards of World Bank; ➢ Review of project related documents; and ➢ Stakeholders’ consultations. 4.2 UNDERSTANDING THE LAWS AND POLICIES APPLICABLE TO ENVIRONMENT AND SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENTS India has a wide range of environmental and social policies and regulations and many of these are not applicable due to very nature of project activities and absence of demonstrable E&S impacts.Areviewofapplicablenationalandstatelevellawsandregulationshas been undertaken to understand the applicability of these laws to the proposed projects. Additionally, the relevant guidelines by the state power utilities, for planning, construction and operations of the sub- stations and distribution lines were also reviewed. The World Bank’s Environmental and Social Standards applicability for proposed projects components has been identified and gaps in national or state regulations to be considered while formulation of ESMF. Identification of Area of Influence The area of influence for each of the sub-projects has been identified considering nature and type of activities proposed to be undertaken under WBEDGMP. Establishing Environmental & Social Baseline On the basis of available secondary data as well as spot verifications made during field visits, environmental and social baseline of project area has been established. The prime parameters for environmental baseline include: ➢ Topography and Drainage P A G E | 31 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 4 ➢ Geology ➢ Flora & Fauna (Bio-diversity) ➢ Forest & Protected Area ➢ Soil type/ Quality ➢ Climate & Air Quality ➢ Noise Pollution ➢ Water Resource ➢ Land Use Pattern The parameters for the social baseline include: ➢ Demography [population, age ,gender, caste, literacy, occupation, economic status, income level and employment] ➢ Basic amenities &infrastructure facilities Screening of Potential Environmental & Social Impact and Mitigation Plan Screening of potential environmental & social risks & impacts of proposed project components have been undertaken considering the existing baseline environmental and social setting of project area. The methodology adopted to identify the potential environment and social impacts is based on experience gained from implementation of similar projects and baseline assessments of work activities anticipated in this proposed project. The methodology takes in to account wide range of receptors: ➢ Physical & chemical environment (e.g. water, soil, etc.); ➢ Biological environment (forest, animals, birds, etc.); and ➢ Communities, social groups and individuals (loss of land, loss of agricultural production, tribal, vulnerable groups (women and backward classes), socio- economic condition, health and safety risks). The proposed sub-projects are likely to create positive as well as negative impact on the environmental and social setting in two distinct phases during the construction phase, which may be regarded as temporary or short term; and during the operation phase that may be long-term effects. A detailed and generic Environmental and Social Management Plan(ESMP) has been formulated for management of potential E&S issues/impacts to be implemented during project execution and subsequently in O&M stage as established during scheme specific ESIA. These covers: P A G E | 32 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 4 Gender Development Framework (GDF) GDF has been formulated to ensure the gender specific needs (for both men and women), which are to be considered while assessing and managing the impacts of the proposed project. Tribal Peoples Planning Framework (TPPF) TPPF has been formulated which would be applicable for the areas having significant concentration of tribal population to ensure proper management of any potential adverse impacts on the tribal population. Labor Management Procedure (LMP) The LMP has been formulated to identify the main labor requirements and risk associated with the project along with resources necessary to address project labor issues. Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP) The SEP has been formulated for transparent engagement with project stakeholders to improve the environmental and social sustainability of project. An effective SEP will help to identify the main stakeholders of the project and mechanism for public consultation and information disclosure as well as grievance redressal system. Resettlement Policy Framework (RPF) The RPF has been developed to provide guidelines for resettlement and rehabilitation in cases where the private land for GIS sub-station is acquired in accordance with the requirements of the West Bengal Land Procurement Policy for Infrastructure Development Projects (WBLPPIDP), 2016, Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation & Resettlement Act, 2013 (RFCTLARRA 2013) and the World Bank’s Environmental & Social Standard (ESS-5) - Land Acquisition, Restrictions on land use and Involuntary Resettlement. The endeavor of RPF shall be to ensure compensation at replacement cost with total transparency including applicable R&R measures to all eligible land owners/Project Affected Persons (PAPs). Biodiversity Management Plan During screening, if it was observed that proposed lines/GIS/DTR are located inside any protected areas (Wildlife Sanctuaries, National Parks, Biosphere Reserves, etc.) or any notified / recognized migratory path / fly path is encountered in spite of utmost care/optimization, a separate biodiversity assessment study shall be carried out as part of the Environment & Social Assessment to develop a detailed Biodiversity Management Plan to address such issues. As per Nation law such assessment is also mandatory if the area involved is more than 50 ha. P A G E | 33 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 4 Grievance Redressal Mechanism The grievance redressal mechanism has been evolved to provide a time bound process to address all grievances/issues/non-compliances that will be brought to notice of Committee/WBSEDCL during project implementation stage. Consultation Consultations with key stakeholders including affected community, local & state government entities and key ministries at the state level were undertaken to know views and concerns about environmental and social issues/concerns of the project. This activity ensured appropriate participation and gathering views from the environment and social perspective of all the stakeholders, which is integrated in this ESMF to be adopted during different stages of the project implementation. Monitoring and Evaluation Plan The Monitoring and Evaluation Plan has been formulated to ensure the effective implementation of provisions of ESMF while carrying out ESIA and subsequently at different phases of project execution/O&M. Disclosure Once the framework for environment and social management is finalized, the framework would be disclosed to the public including Executive Summary in local language. Capacity Building & Training Training needs for the capacity building of WBSEDCL’s officers & staff for implementation of provisions of ESMF have been identified. This would facilitate effective monitoring of the environment and social issues and ensure mitigation measures are being implemented appropriately. Budget Estimates The costs to be incurred to implement the various requirements of the ESMF have been budgeted. The broad cost estimates have been provided for capacity building, training and implementation of the ESMF and mitigation measures. P A G E | 34 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 4 P A G E | 35 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 4 P A G E | 36 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 4 P A G E | 37 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 4 P A G E | 38 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 4 P A G E | 39 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 4 P A G E | 40 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 4 P A G E | 41 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 4 P A G E | 42 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter5 5.0 ENVIRONMENTAL & SOCIAL BASELINE The existing environmental & social baseline of project area has been assessed to screen the potential environmental & social risks and impacts of various components of proposed project. A compendium of biophysical and social sensitivity in the project are a has been compiled on the basis of secondary data and spot verification during the field visit to provide an understanding of scale and magnitude of sensitivity/vulnerability of physical, ecological and social environment. The brief detail of environmental and social baseline of the project area is presented in Appendix 5.1. 5.1 PROJECT LOCATION West Bengal is a state in the eastern region of India along the Bay of Bengal. The project beneficiary and sub-component sites spread over in 14 districts and 5 towns of west Bengal (Figure 5.1). West Bengal includes the Darjeeling Himalayan hill region, the Ganga delta, the Rarh region and the coastal Sundarbans. West Bengal is the thirteenth-largest Indian state, with an area of 88,752 km2 (34,267 sq mi). With over 91 million inhabitants (as of 2011), it is India's fourth-most populous state. The main ethnic group is the Bengalis, with Bengali Hindus forming the demographic majority. P A G E | 43 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter5 FIGURE 5.1: LOCATION OF SELECTED DISTRICT/TOWN FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF WBEDGMP 2.4: P A G E | 44 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter5 5.2 ENVIRONMENTAL BASELINE 5.2.1 Geomorphic Features The entire Bengal basin is divided into four geomorphic units- the northern hilly region, the central river terrace, the foredeep basin zone and the southern geosynclinals zone. The units can be classified into geomorphic feature of the northern zone and southern zone of Bengal basin. The Northern zone of Bengal Basin is bordered by the Tertiary hills. The eroded sediments are deposited by the rivers to the south of the foothills and form the alluvial fans. Whereas the southern Bengal Basin has a very low gradient which provides suitable conditions for rivers to deposit sediment. Although the major part of the southern zone of the basin is covered by the flood plains and delta, the western margin of the zone exhibits peninsular region marked by the Ayodhya Plateau and the undulating Purulia plain. The State of West Bengal has 6 distinctive Agro-climatic zone (Figure 5.2) FIGURE 5.2: AGRO-CLIMATIC ZONES OF WEST BENGAL P A G E | 45 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter5 5.2.2 Climate West Bengal's climate varies from tropical savanna in the southern portions to humid subtropical in the north. The main seasons are summer, the rainy season, a short autumn, and winter. While the summer in the delta region is noted for excessive humidity, the western highlands experience a dry summer like northern India. The highest daytime temperatures range from 38 °C (100 °F) to 45 °C (113 °F). At night, a cool southerly breeze carries moisture from the Bay of Bengal. West Bengal receives the Bay of Bengal branch of the Indian Ocean monsoon that moves in a southeast to northwest direction. Monsoons bring rain to the whole state from June to September. Heavy rainfall of above 250 centimetres (98 in) is observed in the Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, and Cooch Behar district. During the arrival of the monsoons, low pressure in the Bay of Bengal region often leads to the formation of storms in the coastal areas. 5.2.3 Water Resource The main river in West Bengal is the Ganges, which divides into two branches. One branch enters Bangladesh as the Padma, or Podda, while the other flows through West Bengal as the Bhagirathi River and Hooghly River. The Teesta, Torsa, Jaldhaka, and Mahananda rivers are in the northern hilly region. The western plateau region has rivers like the Damodar, Ajay, and Kangsabati. In addition, there are many wetlands in foothills, floodplains and coastal zones of the state. The ground water availability in most of the northern and southern districts is fairly high with considerable contamination of arsenic, fluoride and nitrate.Most of the rivers are moderately polluted. 5.2.4 Soil / Land Use In general, the soils of west Bengal is divided into four types- Mountain soils, Alluvial Soils,Red soils and Saline soil. The Land use analysis reveal that about 59.94 % of reporting area is net sown area and of which only 21.17 % area is under government canal irrigation facility. The forest land occupies 13.52 % while 21.12 % of reporting area of the State is not available for cultivation. 5.2.5 Air Quality Air quality status of selected districts for implementation of WBEDGMP are shown in the Table 5.1. Air quality of the project area is showing moderate to high level of air pollution particularly with respect to particulate pollutant (PM10)in selected districts. However, in general the gaseous pollutants level is considerably lower than national ambient standard (Figure 5.3). P A G E | 46 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter5 TABLE 5.1: AMBIENT AIR QUALITY OF SELECTED DISTRICTS FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF WBEDGMP AQ-ug/m3 (June 2019) AQ-ug/m3 (June 2018) AQ-ug/m3 (June 2017) Districts NO2 PM10 SO2 NO2 PM10 SO2 NO2 PM10 SO2 Alipuduar 37.03 29.00 8.27 13.18 29.00 2.00 14.44 59.80 2.00 Bankura 20.66 110.00 2.00 16.17 70.28 2.00 17.10 91.22 2.00 Dakshin Dinajpur 41.90 151.00 10.08 16.95 80.16 2.00 16.32 28.48 2.00 Darjeeling 37.03 29.00 8.27 13.18 29.00 2.00 14.44 59.80 2.00 Howrah 39.40 56.00 8.93 31.17 56.67 4.37 39.40 56.00 8.93 Jalpaiguri 48.55 72.33 8.62 16.01 75.52 2.00 17.89 47.65 2.00 Kalimpong 41.15 47.67 8.93 13.18 29.00 2.00 14.44 59.80 - Malda 41.40 111.33 11.22 18.20 68.65 2.00 17.58 68.47 2.00 Murshidabad 28.98 117.50 7.99 53.36 197.2 10.69 49.73 73.54 7.49 Nadia 18.43 84.95 5.95 46.36 67.98 9.87 45.61 66.58 7.24 Paschim Medinipur 45.70 71.33 9.93 32.98 71.65 10.96 32.98 71.65 10.96 PurbaMedinipur 37.37 61.33 8.18 37.43 98.09 13.95 40.36 102.65 15.52 Purulia 20.66 115.79 2.00 17.03 72.74 2.00 17.91 95.06 2.00 Uttar Dinajpur 43.07 79.67 11.15 18.83 71.36 2.00 15.38 31.83 2.00 NAAQS* 100.00 80.00 80.00 100.00 80.00 80.00 100.00 80.00 80.00 *National Ambient Air Quality Standard, Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Government of India, 2009 Source: WBPCB, 2019 FIGURE 5.3: AQI OF SELECTED DISTRICTS OF WEST BENGAL (2018-2019) 250 200 150 100 50 0 AQI ( June 2019) NO2 AQI ( June 2019) PM10 AQI ( June 2019) SO2 AQI ( June 2018) NO2 AQI ( June 2018) PM10 AQI ( June 2018) SO2 AQI (June 2017) NO2 AQI (June 2017) PM10 AQI (June 2017) SO2 P A G E | 47 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter5 5.2.6 Ambient Noise The ambient noise level of the majority of the project area showed that the value ranging from 50 to 70 dB which is well within prescribed limits. 5.2.7 Forest Cover The State of West Bengal has a geographical area of 88,752 km² constitutes 2.69% of the country's area. As per State of Forest Report 2019 of Forest Survey of India, forest cover in West Bengal is 16,901.51 km2 which is 19.04% of the state's geographical area. Of the total recorded forest area, Reserved Forests constitute 59.4%, Protected Forests 31.8%, and Unclassed Forests 8.9%.The percentage contribution of various type of forest cover is presented in Figure 5.4. The analysis reveals that very dense forest account for only 18% of total forest cover of West Bengal and majority of the forest is open forest (57% of total forest cover). The status of forest cover of selected districts for implementation of WBEDGMP is presented in Table 5.2. The analysis reveals that the Darjeeling including Kalimpong district have highest forest cover i.e. 75.19% followed by Jalpaiguri including Alipurduar district i.e. 45.97% (Figure 5.5). However, in other districts selected for implementation of WBEDGMP forest area varies from 4 to 21% only (India State of Forests Report, 2019). TABLE 5.2: FOREST COVER OF SELECTED DISTRICTS FOR IMPLEMENTATIONOF WBEDGMP Type of Forest Cover (sq.km) Geographical Moderately Total District Very Dense Open % of Forest Area (sq.km) Dense Forest Forest Forest Cover Forest Cover Bankura 6882 222.33 395.27 667.98 1285.58 18.68 Dakshin Dinajpur 2219 0 5.83 81.29 87.12 3.93 Darjeeling including 3149 720.76 654.52 992.52 2367.8 75.19 Kalimpong Howrah 1467 0 50 253.77 303.77 20.71 Jalpaiguri including 6227 724.22 434.92 1703.3 2862.4 45.97 Alipurduar Kochbihar 3387 0 27 322.06 349.06 10.31 Maldah 3733 0 207.04 282.65 491.69 13.17 Murshidabad 5324 0 53.06 291.83 344.89 6.48 Nadia 3927 1 160.16 318.84 480 12.22 Puba Medinipur 4713 1.99 197.96 620.1 820.05 17.4 Purulia 6259 37.36 306.94 571.58 915.88 14.63 Uttar Dinajpur 3140 0 3.99 230.94 234.93 7.48 Source: Forest Survey of India, 2019 P A G E | 48 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter5 FIGURE 5.4: FOREST COVER MAP OF WEST BENGAL vis-à-vis PROJECT DISTRICTS Source: Forest Survey of India, 2019 P A G E | 49 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter5 Figure 5.5: Percentage Distribution of Type of Forest Cover in Project Area 18% Very Dense Forest Moderately Dense Forest Open Forest 57% 25% Figure 5.6: Comparative Status of Forest Cover of Selected Districts for Implementation of WBEDGMP 8000 7000 6000 5000 sqkm 4000 3000 2000 1000 0 Geographical Area (in sqkm) Total Forest Cover (in sqkm) P A G E | 50 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter5 It has been observed that state has considerable coverage of Protected Area Network including Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Park and this need to be avoided while selection of any new distribution line route alignments while setting new DTRs locations as well as site for GIS. There are 25 protected area networks (Appendix 5.1) consisting of 6 National Park (NP) and 15 Wildlife Sanctuaries (WLS), 2 Elephant Reserve and 2 Tiger Reserve in West Bengal. The elephant population in West Bengal is located in two areas namely the Mayurjharna Elephant Reserve in Paschim Medinipur& Bankura Districts and Eastern Dooars Elephant Reserve in Buxa Forest, Jalpaiguri. Similarly, there are eco- sensitive zones around wildlife sanctuaries where special care needs to be taken to prevent unwarranted impacts. There are several elephant corridors in Southern & Northern West Bengal which are connecting different elephant habitats. Southern West Bengal supports a sizable elephant population (194 elephants; MoEF&CC, 2017), mainly in the Puruliya (Purulia Division, Kangsabati North Division and Kangasabati South Division), West Midnapore (Midnapore Division, Rupnarayan Division, Jhargram Division and Kharagpur Division) and Bankura districts (Bankura North Division and Bankura South Division) (Chanda, undated). Elephants from Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary (Jharkhand) move to West Midnapore and Kangsabati South Forest Divisions, and from Ranchi to Puruliya Forest Division, and from Baripada Forest Division (Odisha) to Kharagpur Forest Division. The location of four elephant sub-corridors of Southern West Bengal which falls partially in project area are shown in Figure 5.6 and detail is presented in Table 5.3. The subprojects in these areas also have to take these EC into consideration while planning and construction activities. The Northern West Bengal region has about 488 elephants (MoEF&CC, 2017) between the Sankosh and Mechi Rivers and spread over the districts of Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar and Coochbehar, comprising nine forest divisions: Kurseong, Wildlife I, Baikunthapur, Kalimpong, Wildlife II, Jalpaiguri, Wildlife III, Buxa Tiger Reserve (East) and Buxa Tiger Reserve (West). Northern West Bengal has a forest area of 3051 sq km (25.7% of the state’s forest area), of which elephant habitat is confined to about 2000 sq km in three distinct geographical zones: (a) The Terai zone between the Mechi River and the Teesta River, comprising forest areas under Kurseong Division and Wildlife Division I (Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary). (b)The Western Duars zone between the Teesta and the Torsa Rivers, comprising the Apalchand Range of Baikunthapur Division; Jalpaiguri Division and Wildlife Division II (including Gorumara National Park and Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary); Kalimpong Division and Wildlife Division III (including the western part of Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary). (c) The Eastern Duars zone between the Torsa and Sankosh Rivers bordering Assam and Bhutan, and the forests of Wildlife Division III (eastern part of Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary and Buxa Tiger Reserve). P A G E | 51 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter5 The forest types found in this region include dry deciduous, moist deciduous, semi evergreen and evergreen forests, with sal (Shorea robusta) and its associates dominating. About 34% of the elephant range in North Bengal is under forest cover, 22%under tea plantation, 17% under agriculture and 27% under human habitation and development activities. As per the 2011 census, the average human density in the Duars and the Terai region is 679 persons per sq km. The location of fourteen elephant sub-corridors of Northern West Bengal which falls partially in project area are shown in Figure 5.6 and detail is presented in Table 5.3. Sub-project specific ESIAs are provided with such information in detail along with maps to depict location of proposed lines/DTR vis-à-vis EC position. Moreover, as brought out above these will also be part of Biodiversity Assessment and resultant management plan. Tiger reserve/areas are also part of protected areas and will be treated similarly including assessment and resultant management plan in consultation with National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) a dedicated body involve in Tiger Conservation. P A G E | 52 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 5 FIGURE 5.7: ELEPHANT SUB-CORRIDORS OF PROJECT AREA FALLING UNDER SOUTHERN WEST BENGAL P A G E | 53 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 5 FIGURE 5.8: ELEPHANT SUB-CORRIDORS OF PROJECT AREA FALLING UNDER NORTHERN WEST BENGAL P A G E | 54 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 5 TABLE 5.3: DETAIL OF ELEPHANT SUB-CORRIDORS OF PROJECT AREA S. Geographical Sub-coridor Forest Range/Division District Length & Width No coordinates Southern West Bengal Elephant Sub-corridors: 23° 14’ 20”- 23° 20’ Mahilong -Kalimati Jhalda and Bagmundi 23” N 18 km and 0-0.5 1 corridor Purulia Ranges under Purulia Forest Division 85° 46’ 6”- 85° 54’ km 25” E 22° 59’ 32”- 23° 8’ Chandil-Matha corridor Matha Range of Purulia Forest Division Purulia 4” N 2 16 km and 1-2 km 86° 5’ 56”- 86° 8’ 22” E 22° 48’ 36”- 22° 49’ Jhunjhak-Banduan,Jhilimilli Banduan Range of Kangsawati South Division Purulia & Bankura 54” N 3 corridor 12 km and 0-2 km 86° 23’ 48”- 86° 26’ 17” E 22° 38’ 60”- 22° 47’ Dalapani- Kankrajhor Kankrajhor Protected Forest of West Midnapur Forest East/West 32” N 22-25 km and 4 corridor Division Midnapur 86° 23’ 54”- 86° 36’ 0.55 – 2.5 km 5” E Northern West Bengal Elephant Sub-coridors: 26° 46’ 58”- 26° 52’ Apalchand-Mahananda Kalimpong & Apalchand Reserve Forest (Baikunthapur Forest Division) 22” N 0.5-1.5 km and 5 corridor Darjeeling with Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary 88° 28’ 10”- 88° 35’ 14-15 km 39” E 26° 44’ 38”- 26° 48’ Apalchand-Gorumara Jalpaigurui & 14” N 13-15 km and 0-2 6 corridor Apalchand Reserve Forest withGorumara National Park Alipurduar 88° 40’ 30”-88° 48’ km 39” E P A G E | 55 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 5 S. Geographical Sub-coridor Forest Range/Division District Length & Width No coordinates 26° 48’ 53”- 26° 55’ Apalchand-Kalimpong Apalchand Reserve Forest (Baikanthapur Forest Division) Kalimpong & 36” N 14-17 km and 0- 7 corridor with Mal Block (Kalimpong Forest Division) Jalpaiguri 88° 36’ 40”- 88° 42’ 1.5 km 18” E 26° 48’ 14”-26° 55’ Apalchand-Kalimpong Kalimpong & Apalchand Reserve Forest (Baikanthapur Forest Division) 37” N 14-16 km and 0-2 8 corridor Jalpaiguri with Mal Block (Kalimpong Forest Division) 88° 39’ 7”-88° 45’ km 6”E 26° 54’ 58”- 26° 59’ Chapramari-Kalimpong Mal Block of Kalimpong Jalpaigurui & 8-9 km and 0-2 3” N 9 corridor Forest Division and Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary of Kalimpong km 88° 45’ 28”- 88° 50’ Wildlife Division II. 28” E 26° 45’ 41”- 26° 47’ Jalpaiguri & 12-14 km and 0- Rethi-Moraghat corridor Rethi Reserve Forest with Moraghat 41” N 10 Alipurduar 1.5 km Reserve Forest under Jalpaiguri Forest Division 88° 59’ 56”- 89° 6’ 5” E 26° 47’ 25”- 26° 52’ Rethi-Central Diana Jalpaiguri & Rethi Reserve Forest with Central 1” N 14-16 km and 0-4 11 corridor Alipurduar Diana Reserve Forest 88° 59’ 41”- 89° 6’ km 3” E P A G E | 56 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 5 S. Geographical Sub-coridor Forest Range/Division District Length & Width No coordinates Titi Reserve Forest (the northern part of Jaldapara 26° 42’ 37”- 26° 46’ Jalpaiguri & 14-16 km and 1-2 Titi-Rethi corridor National 39” N 12 Alipurduar km Park; Wildlife Division III) with Rethi Reserve forest 89° 8’ 34”- 89° 17’ (Jalpaiguri Forest Division) 14” E 26° 46’ 28”- 26° 50’ Moraghat - Central Diana Jalpaiguri & 7-8 km and 1.5 Moraghat Reserve Forest with 28” N 13 corridor Alipurduar km Diana Reserve Forest of Jalpaiguri Forest Division, 88° 58’ 5”- 89° 0’ 35” E Titi Reserve Forest (the northern part of Jaldapara 26° 45’ 59”- 26° 47’ Jalpaiguri & Titi-Rethi corridor National Park, 37” N 8-9 km and 700- 14 Alipurduar Wildlife III Division) with Rethi Reserve Forest (Jalpaiguri 89° 10’ 12”- 89° 15’ 1300 m Forest Division) 49” E 26° 48’ 11”- 26° 49’ Coochbehar & 12-14 km and 0 - Buxa-Titi corridor Buxa Tiger Reserve (Hamiltonganj 34” N 15 Alipurduar 400 m Range) and Titi Reserve Forest 89° 18’ 43”- 89° 24’ (Lankapara Range) 45” E 26° 44’ 22”- 26° 47’ Coochbehar & 5-6 km and 0- Buxa-Titi corridor Buxa Tiger Reserve and Titi Reserve 19” N 16 Alipurduar 1.5km Forest (Wildlife III Division) 89° 18’ 24”- 89° 23’ 26” E 26° 34’ 45”- 26° 36’ Nimati Range of Coochbehar & 3-4.5 km and 0-3 Nimati- Chilapata corridor 41” N 17 Buxa Tiger Reserve and Chilapata Reserve Forest of Alipurduar km 89° 24’ 15”- 89° 26’ Wildlife III Division 43” E P A G E | 57 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 5 S. Geographical Sub-coridor Forest Range/Division District Length & Width No coordinates 26° 38’ 37”- 26° 42’ Coochbehar & Buxa-Ripu corridor Buxa Tiger Reserve (West Bengal) with the Ripu forest in 50” N 10-11 km and 0- 18 Alipurduar Kochugaon Forest Division (Assam). 89° 46’ 10”- 89° 53’ 3.5 km 26” E P A G E | 58 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 5 5.2.8 Flora and Fauna From a phyto-geographic view-point, the southern part of the west Bengal can be divided into two regions: The gangetic plain and the littoral mangrove forest of the sundarbans. The alluvial soil of the Gangetic plain, compounded with favourable rainfall, make this region especially fertile. Much of the vegetation of the western part of the state shares floristic similarities with the plants of the Chota Nagpur plateau in the adjoining state of Jharkhand. Much of the vegetation of the western part of the state has similar species composition with the plants of the Chota Nagpur plateau in the adjoining state of Jharkhand. Major forest type are dry and moist deciduous forest (dominated by Sal trees) in Southern West Bengal with other semi ever green and evergreen forest in North West Bengal (Table 5.4). About 3580 species of higher plants (Angiosperms) are recorded in so far in various forest types of West Bengal (Table 5.5). The distribution of vegetation in northern West Bengal is dictated by elevation and precipitation. Species diversity in major groups of animals of project area are mammals (188 species), birds (846 species), fishes (610 species) and invertebrates like insects (over 5407 species). The 4 schedules provided in the Wild Life (Protection) Act corresponds to the sp. Vulnerability and extent of protection needed. MoEFCC has also mapped the same with corresponding IUCN category (Table 5.5 b & c). TABLE 5.4:MAJOR PLANT SPECIES FOUND IN PROJECT AREA Sl No. Scientific Name Local/Common Name 1 Shorea robusta Sal 2 Tectona grandis Teak 3 Terminalia tomentosa Asan 4 Terminalia arjuna Arjun 5 Terminalia bellirica Bahera 6 Madhuka longifolia Mahua 7 Schleichera oleosa Kusum 8 Beutea monosperma Palas 9 Duabanga sonneratioides Banderhola 10 Schiema wallichi Needlewood P A G E | 59 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 5 Sl No. Scientific Name Local/Common Name 11 Quercus lamellose Bull Oak 12 Syzygium jambolanum Jamun 13 Lagerstroemia parviflora Jarul 14 Holarrhena antidysenterica Kurchi 15 Semicarpus occhidentalis Bhela 16 Terminalia catappa Indian Almond 17 Alstonia scholaris Chatim 18 Diospyros embryopteris Kendu 19 Salmalia malabarica Simul 20 Adina cordifolia Haldu TABLE 5.5 (a): SPECIESDIVERSITY IN MAJOR GROUPS OF PLANTS & ANIMALS Major Groups No. of Species Floral Diversity: Angiosperms 3580 Gymnosperms 21 Faunal Diversity: Insects 5407 Pisces (fishes) 610 Reptiles 148 Birds 846 Mammals 188 P A G E | 60 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 5 TABLE 5.5 (b): : List of Threatened Fauna of West Bengal Sl. No. Common Name Scientific Name WPA, 1972 IUCN CITES Location Mammals 1 Bengal Tiger Panthera tigris tigris Sch I (Part I) EN - Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary, Jalpaiguri 2 Clouded Leopard Neofelis nebulosa - VU I Buxa Tiger Reserve, Alipurduar 3 Fishing Cat Prionailurus viverrinus - VU II Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, Darjeeling 4 Gaur Bos gaurus Sch I (Part I) VU - Buxa Tiger Reserve, Alipurduar 5 Indian Elephant Elephas maximus indicus - EN I Buxa Tiger Reserve, Alipurduar 6 Indian Hog Deer Hyelaphus pornicus Sch III EN - Jaldapara National Park, Alipurduar 7 Indian Leopard Panthera pardus fusca Sch I (Part I) VU I Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary, Darjeeling 8 Indian Pangolin Manis crassicaudata Sch I (Part I) EN I - 9 Indian Rhinoceros Rhinoceros unicornis - VU - Jaldapara National Park, Alipurduar 10 Pygmy Hog Porcula salvania Sch I EN - Gorumara National Park 11 Sambar Deer Rusa unicolor Sch III VU - Buxa Tiger Reserve, Alipurduar 12 Red Panda Ailurus fulgens - EN I Singalila National Park, Darjeeling 13 Ussuri Dhole Cuon alpinus alpinus - EN - Jaldapara National Park, Alipurduar P A G E | 61 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 5 Sl. No. Common Name Scientific Name WPA, 1972 IUCN CITES Location Birds 1 Bengal florican Eupodotis bengalensis Sch I (Part III) CR - Gorumara National Park 2 Chestnut-breasted Partridge Arborophila mandellii - VU - Singalila National Park, Darjeeling 3 Indian Vulture Gyps indicus - CR - Buxa Tiger Reserve, Alipurduar 4 Lesser Adjutant Leptoptilos javanicus - VU Sunderbans Tiger Reserve, 24 Parganas 5 Pallas’s Fish Eagle Haliaeetus leucoryphus - EN - Jaldapara National Park, Alipurduar Reptiles 1 King Cobra Ophiophagus hannah Sch II VU II Gorumara National Park CR = Critically Endangered, EN = Endangered, VU = Vulnerable P A G E | 62 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 5 TABLE 5.5 (c): List of Rare & Threatened Flora of West Bengal Sl. No. Scientific Name Family Location IUCN Singalila National 1 A. osmastonii Aceraceae Park, Darjeeling EN Singalila National 2 Acer hookeri Aceraceae DD Park, Darjeeling Mahananda Wildlife 3 Aconitum ferox Ranunculaceae VU Sanctuary, Darjeeling 4 Arundinella decempedalis Gramineae - NT Mahananda Wildlife 5 B. rubella Begoniaceae NT Sanctuary, Darjeeling Singalila National 6 Begonia satrapis Begoniaceae NT Park, Darjeeling Mahananda Wildlife 7 Bulleyia yunnanensis Orchidaceae EN Sanctuary, Darjeeling Mahananda Wildlife 8 Calamus inermis Arecaceae EN Sanctuary, Darjeeling Singalila National 9 Christella clarkei Thelypteridaceae NT Park, Darjeeling Chapramari Wildlife 10 Cissus spectabilis Vitaceae NT Sanctuary, Jalpaiguri Singalila National 11 Codonopsis affinis Campanulaceae NT Park, Darjeeling 12 Commelina appendiculata Commelinaceae - NT 13 Crotolaria filipes Fabaceae - NT P A G E | 63 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 5 Sl. No. Scientific Name Family Location IUCN Singalila National 14 Cymbidium eburneum Orchidaceae VU Park, Darjeeling 15 Cymbopogon gidarba Gramineae - NT 16 Dimeria mooneyi Gramineae - NT Singalila National 17 Diplomeris hirsuta Orchidaceae VU Park, Darjeeling 18 H. brunonis Rubiaceae - NT 19 Hedyotis scabra Rubiaceae - NT 20 Ischaemum duthiei Gramineaea - NT 21 Ischaemum hirtum Gramineaea - NT Singalila National 22 Metathelypteris decipiens Thelypteridaceae NT Park, Darjeeling Mahananda Wildlife 23 Phoenix rupicola Arecaceae NT Sanctuary, Darjeeling Singalila National 24 Pimpinella tongloensis Apiaceae CR Park, Darjeeling Mahananda Wildlife 25 Rhododendron edgeworthii Ericaceae NT Sanctuary, Darjeeling Source: bsienvis.nic.in 5.3 SOCIAL BASELINE Administrative setup of selected Districts of West Bengal for implementation of WBEDGMP is presented in Table 5.6. Demographic profile of selected Districts of West Bengal for implementation of WBEDGMP is presented in Table 5.7.Demography is the study of human populations the size, composition and distribution across the state. The process through which population changes, the birth, death, migration are the big three of demography. Figure 5.8 presents the status of total number of household and population of selected districts for implementation of WBEDGMP. P A G E | 64 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 5 Figure 5.9 presents the status of schedule caste and schedule tribe population of selected districts for implementation of WBEDGMP. The analysis of social stratification of project area shows that the Scheduled Tribes constitute from 0.31% to 32.01% of the entire population of the concerned district. The maximum ST population are in Kalimpong District i.e. 32.01% of total population followed by in Alipurduar District i.e. 28.53%. The state has a total of thirty- nine (39) Scheduled Tribes. The right of the tribal are protected by SC and ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989. The Santhals are the most populous tribe with a population constituting more than half (51.8%)of the total ST population of the State. The Oraon (14%), Munda (7.8%), Bhumij (7.6%) and Kora (3.2%) are ranked next in terms of population. The tribal population have specific cultural and religious heritage e.g., sacred groves; special care needs to be taken to reduce the impacts on the tribal while planning of distribution network in these areas. There are number of archaeological monuments in Murshidabad, Malda, Bankura districtswithin the Project’s Area. The subprojects in these areas also have to take these into consideration while planning and construction activities. P A G E | 65 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 5 Figure 5.8: Status of House-Hold & Total Population of Selected Districts for Implementation of WBEDGMP N 10000000 u m 5000000 b e r 0 Districts No. of House Hold Total Population Figure 5.9: Percentage of Schedule Caste & Schedule Tribe Population of Selected Districts for Implementation of WBEDGMP P 60 e 40 r c 20 e 0 n t a g e Districts %of SC population %of ST population P A G E | 66 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 5 TABLE 5.6: ADMINISTRATIVE SETUP OF SELECTED DISTRICTS FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF WBEDGMP TOTAL NO TOTAL NO NO OF OF TOTAL NO. OF NON OF TOTAL DISTRICTS AREAS IN SQUARE Km TOTAL NO. OF VILLAGES C.D INHABITED STATUTORYTOWNS STATUATORY TOWNS BLOCKS VILLAGES TOWN Bankura 6882.00 3823 3585 25 3 28 22 Coochbehar 3387.00 1194 1132 12 6 18 12 Dakshin Dinajpur 2219.00 1631 1582 5 2 7 8 Darjeeling including Kalimpong 3149.00 687 680 24 5 29 12 Howrah 1467.00 650 644 135 3 138 14 Jalpaiguri including Alipurduar 6227.00 733 713 35 4 39 13 Malda 3733.00 1771 1613 27 2 29 15 Murshidabad 5324.00 2166 1886 65 7 72 26 Nadia 3927.00 1307 1216 55 10 65 17 Purulia 6259.00 2667 2459 25 3 28 20 Uttar Dinajpur 3140.00 1494 1475 5 4 9 9 Purba Medinipur 4736.00 2994 2928 20 5 25 25 Source: Census of India, 2011 P A G E | 67 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 5 TABLE 5.7: DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILE OF SELECTED DISTRICTS FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF WBEDGMP No. of Total/ Total Total Male %of total Total Female %of total Population of %of total Population %of ST of Total District House Rural polpulation Population population Population population SC population of ST population Hold Darjeeling Total 243004 1127871 570976 50.62 556895 49.38 262190 23.25 280079 24.83 Rural 197006 923410 466891 50.56 456519 49.44 214412 23.22 256327 27.76 Jalpaiguri Total 490886 2202531 1127268 51.18 1075263 48.82 1027606 46.66 380953 17.30 Rural 395566 1789551 916572 51.22 872979 48.78 854060 47.72 361436 20.20 Coochbehar Total 621933 2636608 1359471 51.56 1277137 48.44 1378455 52.28 17225 0.65 Rural 596027 2529652 1304916 51.58 1224736 48.42 1350657 53.39 16872 0.67 Uttar Dinajpur Total 539736 2678722 1379900 51.51 1298822 48.49 749237 27.97 159375 5.95 Rural 532383 2644906 1362469 51.51 1282437 48.49 741154 28.02 158377 5.99 Dakshin Dinajpur Total 346310 1468643 752310 51.22 716333 48.78 448639 30.55 268877 18.31 Rural 339231 1439981 737771 51.23 702210 48.77 440182 30.57 267913 18.61 Malda Total 787645 3699312 1897297 51.29 1802015 48.71 800341 21.63 310850 8.40 Rural 734207 3447185 1768336 51.30 1678849 48.70 767492 22.26 307625 8.92 Murshidabad Total 1453288 6544067 3343270 51.09 3200797 48.91 815261 12.46 88874 1.36 Rural 1286200 5703115 2917822 51.16 2785293 48.84 727721 12.76 86004 1.51 Nadia Total 1030482 4336541 2231784 51.46 2104757 48.54 1355888 31.27 129245 2.98 Rural 883310 3728727 1921112 51.52 1807615 48.48 1141341 30.61 120300 3.23 Purulia Total 535602 2763943 1411401 51.06 1352542 48.94 533952 19.32 538335 19.48 Rural 495836 2556801 1304208 51.01 1252593 48.99 490517 19.18 531822 20.80 Bankura Total 715642 3362420 1719209 51.13 1643211 48.87 1122439 33.38 366555 10.90 Rural 701159 3296901 1685777 51.13 1611124 48.87 1105653 33.54 365380 11.08 Howrah Total 713557 3257341 1668765 51.23 1588576 48.77 645284 19.81 10145 0.31 Rural 391434 1775885 909519 51.21 866366 48.79 407815 22.96 4025 0.23 Purbo Medinipur Total 1059676 4828199 2490249 51.58 2337950 48.42 725978 15.04 24825 0.51 Rural 988784 4503161 2322562 51.58 2180599 48.42 677263 15.04 24028 0.53 P A G E | 68 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 5 No. of Total/ Total Total Male %of total Total Female %of total Population of %of total Population %of ST of Total District House Rural polpulation Population population Population population SC population of ST population Hold Kalimpong Total 41192 202239 103350 51.10 98889 48.90 11201 5.54 64745 32.01 Rural 39688 195450 100074 51.20 95376 48.80 10410 5.33 62742 32.10 Alipurduar Total 269486 1209087 621017 51.36 588070 48.64 339921 28.11 345011 28.53 Rural 229449 1022944 520714 50.90 502230 49.10 305331 29.85 328876 32.15 P A G E | 69 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 6 6.0 SCREENING OF POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL & SOCIAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES Based on initial screening and due diligence of the activities involved in the project viz upgradation of existing electricity distribution infrastructure, potential environmental & social risks and impacts are anticipated to be low though certain components of project have been assigned moderate at the beginning. The basic purpose of the ESMF is to design/formulate mitigative measures and plan for assessment and management protocol to address identified/potential environmental & social risk/impacts during implementation & O&M stage. ESMF also set requirements and procedure for sub-project specific ESIA if after screening it establishes that sub-project activities may pose certain E&S impacts which require specific intervention to manage/minimise them. The ESMF is designed on the principles of avoidance, minimization & mitigation, including offsetting /compensating any residual issues to meet the requirement of sustainable development and compliance of Bank’s ESSs. The key environmental and social issues associated with installation of HVDS, LT AB cabling, 33/11 KV GIS and UG cabling network and corresponding preventive and/or mitigation measures are designed following principle of mitigation hierarchy: “Avoid, Minimise, Mitigate and Offset” in that order of preference. A Typical Environmental & Social Management Plan (ESMP) for proposed sub-projects (component wise) is presented in Appendix 6.1 ( Part A to Part C). 6.1 SCREENING OF POTENTIAL POSITIVE IMPACTS 6.1.1 Impacts of High Voltage Distribution System A typical electricity distribution system at a 33/11 kV substation the voltage is stepped-down to 11 kV for power distribution to load points through a distribution network of lines at 11 kV and lower. Each 11 kV feeder which emanates from the 33/11 kV substation branches further to carry power close to the load points (localities, industrial areas, villages, etc.). At these load points, a distribution transformer (DTR) further reduces the voltage from 11 kV to 415V to provide the last-mile connection through Low Tension (LT) lines to individual customers, either at 240V (as single-phase supply) or at 415V (as three-phase supply). The common practice is to use large capacity DTRs, usually of 100 kVA or 63 kVA capacity, to serve large number of consumers from a single DTR thereby minimizing the investments required in distribution infrastructure. This system is useful when catering to high load density P A G E | 70 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 6 rural areas where high concentration of consumers requires LT lines to cover only short distances. On the other hand, in rural areas, the consumer concentration is dispersed over relatively larger geographical area. As a result, lengthy LT lines are put in place which causes significant line losses and voltage (Reduction). Consumers at the tail end of the LT line in particular face issues of low voltage. Due to low voltage (line current as increases for drawl of same load) which then overload the LT line. Additionally, due to the long length of the LT lines in this model, theft of electricity is easier and unauthorised connections also contribute to overloading the DTR leading to frequent failures. A High Voltage Distribution System (HVDS) aims to address these issues in rural distribution (network) by replacing existing 100/63 kVA transformers with large number of smaller capacity 3-phase distribution transformers installed closer to the consumer load points, upgrading the voltage to 11kV, and replacing the existing conductors with LT AB cables connected to the 3- phase transformers. Typical components of an HVDS installation include: 1. Installation of 8/9 meter Pre-stressed Cement Concrete (PSCC) pole 2. Installation of Smaller capacity one or more distribution transformers 3. Extend service connection to the consumer using LT AB cable. As the project involves the replacement LT lines by LT AB cable there is very little additional construction work required (for the LT network) as the existing poles are used. In some cases, intermediary poles may be required but these are along existing routes and hence utilise the existing RoW; no RoW is required for (conversion of LT line by LT AB cable) and only standard electricity safety norms have to be followed. The width of RoW for 11 kV is 7m, whereas for 33 kV, it is 15m. Drawl of 11 KV line as required to connect new smaller size DTR may be done along the roadside. As the required HT line would not be significantly lengthy, ROW issue will not arise. TABLE 6.1: RIGHT OF WAY (RoW) REQUIREMENTS Min. Clearance between Min. clearance between Transmission Voltage Max. ROW conductor & Trees conductor & ground (In kV) (In meters) (in meters) (in meters) 11 (Bare Conductor) 7 2.6 4.6 11 (insulated ABC) 0 0 4 33 (Bare Conductor) 15 2.8 5.2 33 (insulated ABC) 0 0 4 P A G E | 71 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 6 Extending the 11 kV lines nearer to the load points as possible helps improve quality of supply and reduces the line losses normally seen with lengthy LT lines. As length of LT lines on each DTR downstream will significantly reduce , it will minimize the LT faults and even in case of fults, far lesser number of consumers will be affected and thus improve the overall system reliability. The project benefits include: (i) Reduction in technical losses in the system (ii) Reduction in distribution transmission (DTR) failure rate; (iii) Enhanced reliability & quality of power; (iv) Enhanced customer satisfaction; and (v) Avoidance of theft. 6.1.2 Impacts of Gas Insulated Substation A gas insulated Sub-station (GIS) is a high voltage substation that uses a superior dielectric gas, Sulfur Hexafluoride (SF6) for insulation purpose (Figure 6.1). The basic principle of gas insulated equipment is that the high voltage current carrying parts are within a metal enclosure and are held in a concentric configuration by cast epoxy spacer insulators. The space between the conductor and the enclosure is filled with SF6 gas under desired pressure. FIGURE 6.1: TYPICAL LAYOUT OF GAS INSULATED SUB-STATION (GIS) P A G E | 72 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 6 SF6 is used in electrical power equipment because of its outstanding electrical, physical and chemical properties enabling significant benefits for the electricity supply network: • It insulates 2.5 times better than air (N2) • It has over 100 times better arc quenching capability than air (N2) • SF6 also acts as a better heat dissipater than air. In addition to this, Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) studies have proven that the use of SF6 technology in the electrical distribution switchgear equipment results in lower overall direct and indirect environmental impacts compared to air-insulated switchyards. There are significant numbers of benefits of GIS as follows: a) Local Operator Safety SF6 has a substantial contribution to reduce the accident risks. The total enclosure of all live parts in earth metal enclosures provides immanent protection against electric shock and minimizes the risks associated with human errors. The high-grade switchgear remains hermetically sealed for its whole service life. b) Operational Reliability SF6 offers a great operational reliability because inside the enclosed gas compartments, the primary conductors have complete protection against all external effects. The minimal use off synthetic reduces the fire load. The SF6 insulation ensures complete freedom from oxidation for the contacts and screwed joints, which means that there is no gradual reduction in the current carrying capacity of the equipment as it ages. There is no reduction in insulation capacity due to external factors. c) Security of Supply SF6 insulated switchgear can also be used under difficult climatic conditions, for example, in humid areas with frequent condensations from temperature changes, and even in places with flooding potential and in areas where the reliability of the insulation might otherwise suffer from contamination, e.g. dust from industry or agriculture or saline deposits in coastal areas. Gas-insulated switchgear completely eliminates this possibility throughout the whole service life of an installation. So larger and more costly special designs, or equipment with higher insulation ratings and therefore more costly, thus, avoided. d) Space Requirement Due to high dielectric strength of the gas, the switchgear is compact with space requirements minimized. The excellent safety and (lesser) space requirement of SF6 switchgear allows it to be P A G E | 73 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 6 sited directly in conurbations and close to load centres. Therefore, this fulfil one of the basic essentials of power distribution, namely, that substations should be placed as close as possible to load centres in order to keep distribution (technical) losses to a minimum to conserve resources and to minimize costs. e) Economical and Ecological Features Distinct economic benefit comes from the long service life and minimal maintenance expenditure due to gas-tight enclosures as well as reduced cost for land, buildings, transport and commissioning. Ecological and economic benefits arise from minimum distribution (technical) losses as a result of placing equipment close to load centres, reduced primary energy consumption and emissions contribute to economically optimized power supply systems and the long service life of SF6 switchgear also contributes to the conservation of resources. As the SF6 installations are compact, need minimum maintenance, have extraordinarily high availability and are independent from climatic impacts, they offer not only major ecological and economic advantages but can also be integrated seamlessly in any landscape or architecture of towns, cities or countryside. It leads to the possibilities of reclamation of areas previously taken up by conventional substations. 6.1.3 Impacts of Conversion of OH to UG Cabling Network Potential positive impact of underground lines include aesthetics, higher public acceptance, fewer interruptions and lower maintenance costs. Probability of fault in overhead lines and underground cables vary widely, but typically underground cable outage rates are very minimal in comparison to their equivalent overhead line types. Primary advantage of U/G Network most often cited can be divided into four areas: ➢ Potentially Reduced Maintenance and Operating Costs • Practically nil interruptions/breakdown hence low restoration cost • No tree trimming cost • Reduction of power thefts • Revenues are enhanced by sale of energy for the period of interruption/breakdown. ➢ Resilience enhancement P A G E | 74 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 6 • Less susceptible to the impacts of severe weather conditions. • Less damage during severe weather • Very fewer momentary interruptions ➢ Improves Safety • Emit no electric field in air & lower magnetic field than an overhead line thus avoid any health issues ➢ Improvement in Aesthetic Value • It requires a narrower band of land to install without disturbing actual scenic beauty of the area. 6.2 SCREENING OF POTENTIAL NEGATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS 6.2.1 Soil Impact due to Disturbance to Soil Impact on soil would not be significant both due to the construction of electricity distribution network pole and GIS substation as well as conversion of existing overhead distribution system (HT/LT) into underground cabling network. Mitigation Measures Mitigation measures which would be considered to reduce impacts on soil during construction of electricity distribution networks/substation are given below: • Excess excavated material from pole/DTR foundation/UG cable laying has to be removed by the contractor immediately after completion of pole erection. • Laying of UG cable and Sitting of the distribution pole/DTR should be avoided in agricultural area and water-logged site to the extent possible. 6.2.2 Forest/ Vegetation Impact on Vegetation Major habitat alterations are not expected in electricity distribution networks strengthening activities due to avoidance forest/ ecological sensitive areas or natural habitats. However, insignificant loss of vegetation may occur due to trimming/felling of trees within the RoW to P A G E | 75 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 6 maintain the required electric clearance between tree and conductor (applicable mostly in areas where bare conductor is used). Mitigation Measures Following measures would be adopted during planning and construction of electricity distribution network and GIS substation. • WBSEDCL, wherever possible, would use the existing path/access roads for the movement of man and machinery so that vegetation clearance is not required for accessing construction sites. • Contract document for the construction of electricity distribution network including UG cabling and GIS substation would include specific clauses to prevent felling of trees unless it becomes absolutely necessary. Only those trees for which tree felling permission has been obtained from the Forest Department under the West Bengal Trees (Protection and Conservation in Non Forest Areas) Rules, 2007 would be felled. • For any electricity distribution network passing through forest areas clearance under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 would be mandatory. Construction activity would only be initiated after taking necessary clearance from competent authority, if required. • Regularly clearing of vegetation in RoW for overhead line is a crucial part of routine maintenance and will be carried out by WBSEDCL trained staff in consultation with local authorities including private tree owners on case-to-case basis. In forest and other ecological sensitive areas such regular clearing may not be required due to mandatory use of ABC which don’t require to maintain minimum electric clearance with trees due to presence of insulation. All trimming/pollarding (if required) shall be carried out manually and no chemical shall be applied for clearing of vegetation. 6.2.3 Wildlife/Biodiversity Impact on Wildlife/Biodiversity Electricity distribution network if it passes through National Park, Wildlife Sanctuaries, Elephant Reserve, Tiger Reserve and wildlife corridor, may cause disturbance to wildlife habitats. Also, large animals such as elephants might get electrocuted due to sagging of power lines. P A G E | 76 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 6 These identified elephant corridors in West Bengal which connects elephant habitats not only in West Bengal, but also adjoining state of Orissa and Jharkhand. In addition to these identified elephant corridors, there are several elephant corridors which are identified by Division Forest Office. Electricity distribution networks without adequate measures passing through these wildlife habitats may pose potential risk to wildlife as well as to biodiversity of the area. Mitigation Measures WBSEDCL would make efforts to prevent intrusion of electricity distribution network into wildlife habitats through optimization of route alignment. It would use modern tools like GIS/GPS and other modern techniques such as alternative route analysts to carry on the avoidance exercise. For distribution network, if any, passing through forest, wildlife corridor and other protected area to prevent death of animals in the forest areas due to electrocution by the distribution lines, following measures would be adopted as per MoEF&CC Notification (F. No. 6-104/2019 WL dated 29.08.2019) as well as WBSEDCL Office Order No. 1587 dated 12.03.2019 (Appendix 3.1): • laying of distribution lines of 33 kV and below, passing through National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries, Conservation Reserves, Community Reserves, and Wildlife Corridors, underground cables or Aerial Bunched (AB) cables or insulated conductor shall be used. • Right of Way for 11kV lines would be optimized keeping in view the corridor requirement for the future by adopting suitable alternative of multi-circuit/ multi- voltage lines. • To avoid periodic trimming of trees as well as ground flora during regular movement of tractor line passing through forest/ecological sensitive areas instead of bare conductor only ABC shall be used which do not require periodic clearing of vegetation except at DTR location which is always done by forest authorities. Hence, no impacts on areas biodiversity are envisaged. • Reinforced electric pole fitted with spikes will be used to prevent Elephant rubbing against them in Elephant habitat and Elephant Movement Zone, if AB Cable is used. • Biodiversity Management Plan shall also be implemented in case line could not avoid protected areas and established and notified Elephant Corridors. P A G E | 77 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 6 6.2.4 Avian Fauna Impact on Bird In electricity distribution network bird deaths may be caused from collisions/electrocution. The likelihood of avian collisions is high especially when electricity distribution networks are located near migratory bird corridors, foraging grounds or nesting and roosting sites as well as water bodies Mitigation Measure Following prevention and control measures would be undertaken to minimize avian collisions: • The electricity distribution networks would avoid such areas with known avian populations e.g. nesting grounds, foraging grounds, migration corridors, water bodies, etc. • No underground cabling is proposed in forest/sensitive areas instead ABC shall be used to minimize possible disturbance. Use of ABC or insulated cable with other measures like Providing bird guards on electric pole to avoid perching and installation of bird diverter in identified bird habitat/fly way zone if required shall be undertaken to avoid bird collusion/electrocution. 6.2.5 Air & Noise Pollution from Construction Activity During construction phase of the project i.e. construction of substation and electricity distribution network including UG cabling, insignificant amount of air pollution may be generated due to various construction activities. This would include emission from fugitive and exhaust air pollution from the movement of vehicle carrying construction material and machinery used during site clearance and leveling of site for GIS substation, excavation and filling up of trenches for laying UG cable etc. However, this will too be temporary and intermittent only during construction phase hence will not affect the overall/existing Air Quality Index (AQI) of project area. During operation stage, air or noise emissions are not expected from electricity distribution networks. The principal source of noise during construction of electricity distribution networks would be from operation of micro tunneling machine during UG cabling, winching machine during stringing of electricity distribution networks. In case of GIS substation, the operation of the earth moving machineries has potential to generate high noise levels. These machineries may produce noise level of more than 70 dB (A) if not maintained properly. This can cause disturbance to the settlement, if located near (within 500 m) sub-station sites. P A G E | 78 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 6 Mitigation Measures Although significant air pollution is not likely to cause due to distribution grid strengthening modernization projects still WBSEDCL will make efforts to further minimize it. WBSEDCL would implement measures stated in the ESMP (which will be prepared as part of the ESIA for each sub-project) for pollution prevention. The ESMP would be made part of the standard bidding document of contractors. To prevent air pollution the vehicle carrying construction material and machinery would move along the existing access road only. Vehicles which are having valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificate would only be deployed for the purpose with regular check. To prevent excessive noise during micro-tunneling operation the micro tunneling machine would be kept avoiding dense settlement area. Regular maintenance of the micro tunneling, winching machine, etc would be carried out to prevent excessive noise. Also, for machineries involved in GIS substation construction, maintenance schedule would be prepared and maintained by the contractor. Night time construction activity would be prohibited in case settlement/habitation is located within 500 m of the construction site. These measures as indicated above would also be made part of the Standard bidding document of Contractor involved in WBEDGMP. 6.2.6 Impact of Hazardous & Other Waste As a part of routine maintenance, transformer oil would be changed every 10- 15 years. The used transformer oil is categorized as hazardous wastes as per Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary Movement) Rules, 2016 and its unscientific disposal may lead to contamination of ground water. Further, transformer oil may contain insignificant concentration of Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). The labour camps might be setup for the construction of the GIS substation and the fly-camps may be developed at different location for the erection of the DTRs/poles and stringing as well as excavation of trenches/ micro-tunnelling for UG cabling work. These camps may generate solid and liquid waste. These wastes may contaminate the soil and the water bodies around the site if it is not properly handled. Mitigation Measures WBSEDCL would ensure that used transformer oil is disposed in accordance to the Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management and Tran’s boundary Movement) Rules, 2016. WBSEDCL would also obtain necessary authorisation form West Bengal State Pollution Control Board P A G E | 79 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 6 (WBPCB) under this regulation and comply with the responsibilities of generator i.e. maintaining of records, submission of annual returns. Similarly, e-waste generated would be governed by the provisions of the E-Waste Management rules 2016. The procedure for handling both hazardous waste and e-waste are presented in Appendix 3.1. Modular bio-toilets would be provided at all construction camp, lay down area and fly camp. At the completion of the construction activities construction site would be cleared of all the leftover materials and debris to avoid any chance of pollution. 6.2.7 Emission of Green House Gas (GHG) Potential Impact Sulphur hexafluoride (SF6) is physiologically completely harmless for humans and animals. It has no ecotoxic potential. It does not deplete Ozone. However, due to its high global warming potential (23500 times of CO2 according to the 5th Assessment Report of IPCC, 2014), it may contribute to man-made greenhouse effect if it is released into the atmosphere. However, in electrical switchgear, the SF6 gas is always used in gas-tight compartments, greatly minimizing leakage. The SF6 emission factor in GIS ranges from about 0.1 – 0.5 % per year (0.5 % per year is the maximum acceptable leakage rate according to IEC 62271-203). This makes the real impact of SF6 emission on environment and Global warming quite negligible. Mitigation Measures WBSEDCL would follow the strict and well-defined procedure for storage, handling and refilling of SF6 gas cylinders. Every refill would be documented and any unusual variation in gas volume would be reported to WBSEDCL for review and rectification. 6.2.8 Water Resource During construction phase of GIS substations, pole and UG cabling network, water would be required for construction work as well as for domestic purpose. Water would also be used for earthwork, levelling, concreting and curing of concrete. Recycled water for this purpose would be explored to be utilized if available. However, during operation phase, ground water may be used for domestic purpose for office and residential quarters at GIS substation site. Further, water may be required for earthling pit located at GIS substation site. For this purpose, at each GIS substation site bore well may be constructed to meet water requirement. For ground water extraction through mechanised means using 2 HP or above pump would require P A G E | 80 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 6 permission/NOC from State/ Central Ground Water Authority (SGWA/ CGWA) as per the CGWA th Public Notice dated 13 October 2017. Mitigation Measure Water usage for construction work would be reduced by adopting following best practices: • Preference to use of recycled water for construction activity wherever feasible; • Use of buckets etc. to wash tools instead of using running water; • Use of auto shut off taps in labour accommodation; • Installation of water meters with main supply pipes/water tanks/bore well to assess quantity of consumed water • Use of admixture in the concrete production to reduce water consumption. 6.2.9 Occupational Health and Safety The occupational risk related to the construction of electricity distribution networks is primarily due to fall from heights which might cause serious injuries. Electricity distribution network poles would be of different heights and height of the pole would be 9 m in case of 11/33 kV and 8 m in case of LT line. Mitigation Measures During the testing and charging of electrical lines and GIS substation, electricity insulating protective equipment like footwear (ISO 20345: 2004 Part-2), rubber gloves (IS 4770: 1991) would be provided to workers. In addition, provisions of the “Central Electricity Authority (Measures Relating to Safety and Electric Supply) Regulations 2010” would be adhered to. O&M is not in scope of funding and will be carried out by trained staff of WBSEDCL. However, these aspects made part of ESMP to avoid due importance during O&M phase. 6.2.10 Community Health and Safety During the construction of the foundation for the GIS and trench for UG cabling etc the excavation may pose some safety concerns for the inhabitants in the locality. This would be more relevant when the construction is carried out near a settlement or along a foot track or existing village road. During operation phase, the generation of Electro Magnetic Field (EMF) from 11/33 kV lines are likely to be insignificant. P A G E | 81 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 6 Mitigation Measures For the foundation of GIS and trenches for UG cabling being constructed near settlement or access road, there are chances of accidents. During the construction period the construction areas shall be barricaded with proper/planned traffic management measures (refer fig.6.2), if required. To facilitate easy identification of these areas during the night, warning lights and reflective tapes would be placed on the boundary for enhanced & clear visibility. 6.3 SCREENING OF POTENTIAL NEGATIVE SOCIAL IMPACTS 6.3.1 Standing Crop The erection of DTR/poles and subsequently stringing of electricity distribution networks may involve movement of men, machinery and equipment across agricultural fields. This may cause damage to the standing crops in agriculture field. Mitigation Mitigation measures to reduce impact on loss of standing crop include: • Constructions to be undertaken during the lean agricultural season after the harvest are over to the extent possible. • Use of village roads and earth bunds between agricultural plots for movement of equipment and workers, wherever feasible. • When damage to standing crops cannot be avoided due to the construction work, the farmer will be fully compensated for all damages as assessed by revenue authorities. 6.3.2 Land use Pattern It is estimated that more than 12000 new DTR would be constructed under the project. In addition, WBSEDCL would also require a right of way of appropriate width as per voltage grade & configuration for 11/33 kV electricity distribution network, if bare conductor is used. It must be noted, that as per existing regulation, acquisition of land is prohibited and, only the rights to use are available for construction/maintenance purpose. After construction is over, the original practice including agriculture activities are allowed even below the line. Therefore, impact/loss of land is not envisaged in the proposed project. P A G E | 82 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 6 Mitigation Measures To ensure that the landowner receives due compensation for the damages sustained by him during the construction of electricity distribution networks in WBEDGMP, following mitigation measures will be undertaken: • The payment of compensation for damages would be made transparent. • Online transfer to owner’s bank account shall also be followed to avoid delay and intermediaries; • If required, settlement may be carried out by the Revenue Committee. 6.3.3 Loss of Land Land requirements for each GIS substation would be depending on technical considerations. Wherever possible, the project will try as much as possible to use non-forest government land, to minimise private land procurement. When not feasible or in the absence of government land only private land may be procured for the project on willing buyer willing seller basis on negotiated rate using GoWB Land Purchase Policy, 2016 and RPF for the GIS substations. After transfer/possession of land the substation area shall be declared as prohibited zone resulting in restricted entry to staff of WBECDCL to avoid any incidence of electrical mishaps/accidents. Mitigation Measure Measures to mitigate loss of land are as follows; • Efforts may be made by WBSEDCL to utilize non-forest government land for constructions of GIS substations to the extent possible; • There will be complete restriction on use of private irrigated /double cropped agricultural land; • When procuring private land cannot be avoided, it will be done on the principles of willing buyer willing seller on negotiated rate using provisions of Land Purchase Policy of GoWB and RPF. • The affected persons will also be compensated for the loss of standing crop, if any. P A G E | 83 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 6 6.3.4 Impact of Labour Influx Labour would be required for construction of the GIS substation and erection of high voltage electricity distribution (HVDS) system and UG cabling networks. Unskilled labour would be required for civil work and would be preferably sourced from local areas. However skilled labour required for erection of pole, commissioning of the GIS substation, stringing of electricity distribution networks, micro tunneling for UG cabling, etc. may include some migrant labours. The basic issues related with migrant labour may include: • Conflict amongst workers, and between workers and local community, based on cultural, religious or behavioral practices. • Discontent amongst local community on engagement of outsiders. • Mild outbreaks of certain infectious diseases due to interactions between the local and migrant populations. The most common of these are respiratory (TB), vector borne (Malaria, Dengue), water borne (Stomach infections, typhoid) and sexually transmitted diseases (HIV, Syphilis and Hepatitis). • Workers that are mobilized from other regions may become vectors for transmission of COVID-19 infection onto work sites. Close working and living conditions of workforce may also create conditions for the easy transmission of COVID-19 and the infection of large numbers of people. • Use of community facilities such as health centres, temples, transport facility etc. by migrant labour may lead to discontent with local community. • In case contractors bring in unskilled migrant labour, there stands the risk of exploitation of a labourer. This can happen in the form of hiring underage labourers, low and unequal wage payments, forced labour and discrimination on basis of the basis of caste, religion or ethnicity. Mitigation Measure Measures to mitigate impacts from labour influx and related issues are presented in Labour Management Procedure and protocol (Annex Volume 3- Labour Management Procedure). The prime measures to mitigate impacts from labour influx include: P A G E | 84 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 6 • The workers would be advised for not to allow themselves to be influenced in the execution of their duties by any consideration other than the legitimate and reasonable interests of the respective labors to avoid conflict with local community. • Expats or transient workers would be advised to adhere to national requirements and guidelines with respect to COVID-19. • The workers would be advised to inform the project manager to get their health checked as soon as possible if he/she witnesses any symptom of communicable disease and start treatment as soon as possible to avoid transmission to others. • Any worker who is subject to sexual harassment either by actions or words must immediately bring the matter to the attention of his supervisor/manager as well as project manager. • No worker would discriminate against other workers on any basis including that of Religion, Caste, Language, Nationality, Ethnicity etc. 6.3.5 Impact on Common Property Resources For access to pole location or electricity distribution system, the contractor would use the existing road i.e. existing National/State highway or village road. During construction phase due to the movement of the construction related vehicle and machinery some of the roads especially village roads may get damaged. Additionally some village roads may not be in a condition that it can be used for movement of construction vehicle. In such conditions the use of such roads would further lead to deterioration of the common property resources. Some culvert or any common utilities e.g. distribution poles may also get damage during the construction activities causing hardship to the community in general. Mitigation Measures Where ever required before using village road, minor improvement would be carried out by contractor which would also help in augmentation and strengthening of road network particularly in peri-urban and rural area leading to positive impact for local people. In case of damage to the road or culvert or any common utilities during the construction activities it would be the responsibility of the contractor to repair the same (to abide the procedure for restoration). P A G E | 85 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 6 6.3.6 Interference with Utilities and Traffic and Blockage of Accessway The stringing of the electricity distribution networks in some cases would cross existing roads including village and districts road, state and national highways and railways. During the UG cabling and stringing operations when the electricity distribution network crosses any road/ railways line, hindrance may be caused to the movement of traffic. In some instances temporary closure of the road/railway line may be required to facilitate such stringing activities. This disruption in movement would cause inconvenience to the local population as access would be interrupted temporarily. Mitigation Measures When an electricity distribution network crosses any road/ railways line, adequate care/caution would be taken so as not to cause any hindrance to the movement of traffic (Figure 6.2). UG Cabling and stringing at the stretches would be carried out during lean traffic period in consultation with the District Administration and local office of the utilities. The proposed Traffic Management Plan for UG cabling work is presented below: • Safety barricade with reflective stickers will be placed along the existing roads. Machineries and equipment like excavator, RMC truck etc. used for construction works will be operated inside barricaded area. • Warning sign boards will be placed before and after the construction area for easy identification of construction activities by vehicle drivers. Further, reflective stickers will be placed at a comfortable distance before the barricading area to guide the drivers. • A flag man with Red Flag will be present at the site during the day time, guiding the public, when the construction activities are going on. After the work activities warning flash lights will be installed at the corners of barricaded area. • Due permission from PWD, NHAI, Railway etc. shall be obtained before undertaking such activity. P A G E | 86 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 6 FIGURE 6.2: TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT PLAN Any vehicle going into the barricaded area and out from there shall be led by flag man without disturbing carriage way traffic. 6.3.7 Tribal Communities and their Cultural Properties As the baseline section indicates, major ST population resides in rural areas of the state and so the proposed project would also benefit the tribal population and their domains. However, majority of these tribal people do not belong to typical indigenous community. As typical tribal people communities are closely tied to ancestral domains and natural resources, including land, forest, water, and others. Hence, their ties in terms of their customary rights to these ancestral domains which they traditionally own, use, or occupy, and where access to natural resources is vital for their survival and livelihood system may not get impacted due to erecting pole footings and stringing of operations of electricity distribution networks. Mitigation Measures To preserve the cultural identity of the tribal population which are closely tied upto ancestral domains and natural resources, including land, forest, water, and others a Tribal Development Planning Framework (TDPF) (refer Annex Volume 2: Tribal Development Framework) is P A G E | 87 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 6 prepared for this project. Further, there are regulatory provision in place for protection of the tribal culture, practices and traditions. The Tribal Development Planning Framework has been developed in compliance with ESS 7. If tribal populations are likely to get affected by subprojects, Tribal Development Plan would be prepared and implemented by WBSEDCL to ensure that affected tribal population: i) are adequately and fully consulted, ii) receive benefits and compensation at par with other affected people as per the legal requirement., (iii) are provided with special assistance as per laws and policies (iv) receive adequate protection against project adverse impacts on their culture identities. 6.3.8 Women Work Participation and Decision Making Analysis of the workforce involvement in the Blocks of West Bengal indicates that the average female work participation in all the blocks is 18.08% (which is lower than the national rate of 25.6%). The maximum involvement of rural women are in agricultural sector, however, work participation of female workers in power sector, especially electricity distribution network projects, are considerably less. Mitigation Measures Adequate measures will be undertaken to safeguard gender issues in the project area as outlined in Annex Volume 1: Gender Action Plan (GAP). Women involvement will be ensured through formal and informal group consultations so that their participation is ensured during implementation of the project. If any women labour employed at construction site, separate arrangement like toilet facility, rest area etc. would be made for them. 6.3.9 Visual & Aesthetics The conversion of existing overhead distribution lines (HT/LT) in to UG Cabling Network would enhance visual & aesthetic landscapes of sub-project area. However installation of HVDS, LT AB cabling, 33/11 KV GIS would not significantly change visual and aesthetics view of sub-project area. The overall impact is likely to be positive to most peoples, baring few places where sub- projects activities would cross natural landscapes. Mitigation Measures Electricity distribution networks may be routed to avoid areas having scenic beauty. Electricity distribution network route shall be chosen to avoid areas of natural beauty. In addition, during electricity distribution network design following measures would be adopted: P A G E | 88 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 6 • Minimizing construction of additional poles by using natural topography/ sag curve; • Use of PCC Poles to merge with the background. 6.4 DISASTER MANAGEMENT ISSUES Due to the development of cyclonic storms in Bay of Bengal/Indian Ocean throughout the years, the state is often facing moderate to severe damages including the electrical installations/distribution networks. Mitigation Measures A detailed Disaster Management Plan is in place with WBSEDCL and provisions of same shall be implied in case of such occurrence. The Disaster Management/ Emergency Restoration Plan is annexed at Appendix 6.2. P A G E | 89 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 7 7.0 INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENT The process of integration of E&S safeguard throughout project cycle & organizational structure for E&S safeguards implementation at WBEDGMP including the mechanism for monitoring, supervision and reporting of the E&S safeguards implementation is described in the subsequent sections. 7.1 PROJECT CYCLE AND E&S SAFEGUARDS The stages of the WBEDGMP project cycle for developing HVDS and GIS substations as well as UG cabling network along with other sub-component of proposed project include: • Project conceptualization; • Project planning; • Approval and clearances; • Detail designing, tendering & award; • Project implementation; and • Operation & maintenance. As part of each of the process, E&S safeguards have been dovetailed in the project cycle to ensure its proper and timely compliance. Such E&S safeguards provisions have been described in the subsequent sections and illustrated in Figure 7.1. P A G E | 90 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 7 FIGURE 7.1: PROJECT CYCLE OF DISTRIBUTION PROJECT AND E&S SAFEGUARD • Project Identification PROJECT • Feasibility Studies including: CONCEPTUALIZATION - Concept Paper - Environment & Social Screening & Scoping • In-principle Approval from State Govt. • Detailed Survey • Preparation of Detailed Project Report (DPR) P • ESIA- ESMP Preparation PROJECT PLANNING • Concurrence by WBSEDCL u • 33/11 kV GIS Land Identification b l • Selection i • Approval from Internal Management c (BOD) APPROVALS • Forest Clearance (if required) • Land Procurement (if required) • Stakeholder Engagement Plan C • Concurrence of World Bank o n s • Design, Estimates, and Finalization of u DETAILED DESIGN, Specification TENDERING AND AWARD • ESMP for Bidding Document l • Tendering and Award of Contracts t a t • Check Surveys i • Procurement of Materials and Field PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION Execution as per approved BOQ o • Execution of ESMP n • Implementation of SEP, LMP, GDP, TDP & RPF , if required • Testing and Commissioning OPERATION AND • Preventive Maintenance &Operation MAINTENANCE • Monitoring and Review of ESMP • P A G E | 91 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 7 7.1.1 Project Conceptualization An electricity distribution grid modernization project in the state is identified considering the load centres /centres of consumption of electricity e.g. (industrial region, domestic/commercial centres). To identify the need for system strengthening and augmentation of distribution infrastructure in West Bengal, a detailed load profile & Growth Pattern and distribution system study was carried out by WBSEDCL. Following the same, the sub-projects listed in Appendix 2. 1 have been identified. After identification of subproject, a Feasibility Study would be carried out. The feasibility study, besides analysing the technical/engineering and financial and economic aspects would essentially include environmental and social considerations. The feasibility study would consider technical justifications, economic and financial performance and environmental and social constraints mapping for analysing each of the subprojects. The subprojects would then be prioritized based on demand of consumers (in this case 24x7 Power for All), business needs, external environment factors and environmental and social complexities involved. As a part of the Feasibility study for each sub-project, WBSEDCL (through its E&S Consultant) would screen for “Significant Environmentally and Socially Sensitive Areas” or “Exclusion Zones” e.g. National Parks, Wild Life Sanctuaries, Elephant Corridors, Eco-Sensitive Zones, etc. These would be identified from secondary literature and using Survey of India Maps/Google Earth and Forest Atlas and communicated to the Technical Consultant of WBSEDCL. Through the screening process efforts would be made to avoid these “Significant Environmentally and Socially Sensitive Areas” or “Exclusion Zones”. Subsequently, a preliminary survey/walkover survey would be conducted to identify forest, sacred grove, archaeological sites, historical and cultural places etc. In case additional environmentally or socially sensitive areas are identified during the survey the same would be informed to the WBSEDCL PIU and the (respective site offices of WBSEDCL) for initiating actions for avoidance or necessary corrective actions. Using the information gathered from the preliminary survey, an analysis of alternative alignment would be carried by the E&S Consultant out as per the format provided in Appendix 7.1 (Part A) for identification of the best suited alternative route for UG cabling network. However, for HVDS no new alignment (for LT Network) is proposed as existing network would be used for the purpose. Similarly, based on the information gathered from walkover survey at different candidate location for substation, a similar analysis of alternative substation site would be carried out using the format presented in Appendix 7.1 (Part B) to identify the best location for the substation. P A G E | 92 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 7 7.1.2 Project Planning & Approvals The project planning stage would include all activities related to preparation of Detailed Project Report (DPR) for all sub-projects under WBEDGMP. The environmental and social impact assessment of each sub-projects location would also be carried out during this stage. During this stage of the project, Technical Consultant would carry out assessment of the proposed/existing alignment identified from the Analysis of Alternative during the Project Conceptualisation for optimum location DTRs and GIS substation as well as HT/LT AB & UG cabling network. As part of the environmental and social (E&S) studies a second level screening of the proposed/existing alignment/locations, would be conducted to identify environment and social hotspots. The hot spots on the alignment would then be communicated to the Technical Consultants for avoidance through realignment and/or alternative considerations. Screening of potential environmental and social impact for each sub-project would be carried out to ascertain whether specialised studies (e.g., Resettlement Plan, Biodiversity Assessment, and Tribal Development Plan etc) need to be conducted. A generic Terms of Reference for the Environmental and Social Assessment (ESIA) and formulation of ESMP is presented in Appendix 1.1. Considering the scope of studies for each sub-projects under WBEDGMP, baseline information would be collected from surveys, field studies and secondary sources. This baseline information would be utilised for carrying out the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment and for preparation of Environmental and Social Management Plan. In case any specialised studies are required the following actions would be undertaken; • Tribal Development Plan: The TDP would be developed to manage/mitigate impacts on indigenous people from subprojects. The plan would address developmental needs of indigenous people/ tribes and help them to preserve their distinct cultural identify. Framework for preparation of Tribal Development Plan is provided as Annex Volume 2: Tribal Peoples Planning Framework (TPPF). • Resettlement Action Plan: No land is proposed to be acquired for proposed project sub- components except setting up of GIS. However, the land requirement for the purpose would be much less as compared to AIS and proposed land would be acquired as per GoWB land procurement policy for infrastructure projects through concerned Zilla Parishad. In case of GIS substation where private ownership land is required to acquired and resettlement cannot be avoided, a Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) would be prepared. The plan would identify all people affected by the project and justify their displacement after consideration of alternatives that would avoid or minimize displacement. It would also present the entitlements for each of the project affected P A G E | 93 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 7 persons. Framework for preparation of Resettlement Action Plan is provided as Annex Volume 5: Resettlement Policy Framework. • Biodiversity Assessment/Management Plan: Such assessment would aim at identifying potential impacts on flora and fauna if line traverses through notified protected areas or other ecological sensitive areas including notified migratory path /fly way etc. to develop a detailed & comprehensive Biodiversity Management Plan listing mitigation measures to protect /conserve biodiversity of such areas. Terms or reference for biodiversity assessment study is provided as Appendix 7.2. If forest land is unavoidable for drawl of 33/11KV or new LT line, the process of forest clearance as per the provisions of the Forest Conservation Act 1980 would be initiated. As part of the forest proposal, WBSEDCL would provide an undertaking to bear the cost of compensatory afforestation etc., as per the guidelines of MoEF&CC. Before finalisation of the Detailed Project Report, WBSEDCL would inform general public about the project and would invite their suggestion. The suggestions would be recorded as part of the Disclosure Process and due consideration would be given to the concerns and suggestions given by stakeholders during finalisation of DPR. The final DPR along with the Environmental and Social Management Plan and Resettlement Action Plan & Tribal development Plan (if required) would be sent to the WBSEDCL Board of Directors for approval and the same would also be forwarded to the World Bank for concurrence. 7.1.3 Detailed Design, Tendering & Award WBSEDCL would start the tendering process after approval from internal management and World Bank. The contracts would be awarded to competent contractors through bidding process. The subproject specific ESMP would be part of the contract document for implementation by the contractors/subcontractors executing the subprojects. 7.1.4 Project Implementation The construction phase would begin with the check survey being carried out by the contractor. Through the check survey the contractor would verify the site profile and the DTR (location) and make necessary changes/ (modification) wherever required. Once the locations/alignment are finalised, the contractor would approach the local authority for required clearances to start construction work. In case there are any grievances regarding the location of DTR/GIS substation, consultation would be held between local people and Contractor with involvement of respective P A G E | 94 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 7 Regional/Divisional Office of WBSEDCL. However, in case even after all these efforts there is a failure to come to a consensus, then the DTR/pole locations may be shifted after meeting all technical requirements. During civil construction work, due care would be taken by the Contractor to implement the Construction Environmental and Social Management Plan (C-ESMP) to minimize/mitigate environmental and social impacts. Occupational and community health & safety aspects would also be given due importance by the Contractor during construction work. WBSEDCL would also have oversight on the implementation of all these activities. Implementation of Resettlement Action Plan and the Tribal Development Plan, if applicable would be taken up prior to the initiation of the civil works. The Contractor would be responsible for carrying out regular reporting to Divisional/Regional Office of WBSEDCL for the implementation of the ESMP in the format specified in Appendix 7.3. In turn, the Divisional/Regional Office would report to WBSEDCL PIU. 7.1.5 Project Operation & Maintenance WBSEDCL PIU will continuously monitor implementation of environment and social safeguards of HVDS and GIS substations and UG cabling network including encumbrance on the RoW. Any encumbrance on the RoW e.g. trees or bamboo thicket would be immediately lopped to maintain requisite safety distance as per guidelines (IS 5613/MoEFCC, GoI Circular 7-25/2012- FC dated 5thMay 2014). The Regional/Divisional Offices would assist the WBSEDCL PIU to carry out monitoring of the sub-projects. In addition, for routine issues e.g. disposal of used transformer oil, e-waste the WBSEDCL PIU would direct the Regional/Divisional Office as per the provisions Standard Operating Procedures. A revised Contractor ESMP for the O&M phase (different OHS risks and likely different contractor) has been developed. 7.2 INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENT For the implementation of the West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project, West Bengal State Electricity Distribution Company Limited has developed a Project Implementation Unit (WBSEDCL-PIU). The WBSEDCL PIU will be located at the WBSEDCL headquarters in Bidyut Bhavan, Bidhannagar, Kolkata and is headed by the Additional Chief Engineer. The detail of WBSEDCL PIU is presented in Appendix 7.4. The WBSEDCL PIU would also be responsible for driving the implementation of the E&S safeguards in WBEDGMP. At the field level, the Regional/Divisional offices of WBSEDCL who would be responsible for implementing the technical aspects of the WBEDGMP would also be responsible for the implementation of the E&S safeguards. In addition, the Contractor for both implementation as well as during O&M (if deployed) of the subprojects would also have an Environment and Social P A G E | 95 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 7 personnel to actually carry out the E&S safeguards on the ground. Same mechanism would be adopted during O&M which is under scope of WBSEDCL. For the implementation of the E&S safeguards the WBSEDCL PIU would be additionally supported by designated Environmental Officer and Social Officer. These personnel would preferably from within WBSEDCL having requisite qualification and experiences. However, at the field level, the E&S safeguards implementation would be supervised by the designated Divisional/Assistant Engineer attached to the Region/Division implementing the project. The designated officers would be trained on E&S aspects and the implementation requirements of the ESMF in WBEDGMP. The responsibilities of said officers shall be as follows: • Shall be responsible for providing WBSEDCL PIU with E&S inputs on the planning and implementation of the project; • Shall coordinate with the Region/Division Offices of WBSEDCL in case of private land procurement is required for GIS sub-station; • Shall be responsible for supervising the implementation of the Environmental and Social Management Plans including the Resettlement Plan (if any), Tribal People Development Plan, Labor Management Plan and the Stakeholder Engagement Plan; Biodiversity Management Plan will be formulated, if required; Shall be responsible for coordinating training sessions and awareness campaigns for improving awareness on E&S Issues in the organisations i.e. WBSEDCL; • Shall formulate training modules and impart training for CCC/ Division Level staff; • Shall be responsible for coordinating between different departments i.e. the Land Revenue Department and the Forest Department for land procurement and forest clearance respectively; • Shall be the custodian of the Grievance Redresses Mechanism of WBEDGMP and maintain the process of grievance redressal. They shall maintain the records of all the grievance and action taken; • Shall be responsible for monitoring the E&S safeguards implementation and reporting that same back to the WBSEDCL management and the World Bank Periodically; P A G E | 96 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 7 •Shall coordinate with the different agencies appointed by the WBEDGMP PIU, to implement the E&S safe guards. The Contractor would also have an Environmental Engineer/Officer and a Social Officer in the team who is implementing the project. The respective contractor would be responsible for the submission and implementation of Construction and O&M - Environmental & Social Management Plan (C-ESMP) as well as provisions of ESMP as provided in the contract document and also coordinating with the respective Department for necessary statutory clearances if required. The responsibilities of said officers shall be as follows: • Shall be responsible for planning and implementation of the ESMP (including C- ESMP/LMP); • Supporting the WBSEDCL Regional/Divisional Office to coordinate with the forest department for forest clearance and other statutory clearances e.g. tree cutting/trimming, etc; • Reporting the ESMP Implementation to the WBSEDCL Regional/Divisional Office; • Coordinate with the External Agency, if any the process and progress of the implementation of the ESMP; 7.3 CAPACITY BUILDING & TRAINING The capacity building or the WBEDGMP would include both augmentation of the present institutional structure of WBSEDCL PIU as well as carrying out training of the personnel to be involved in the project implementation on E&S issues in WBEDGMP. Training and development of employees is an integral part for implementation of ESMF. Training needs identification has been carried out at Corporate and Field level, based on which focused training modules have been developed for- • Strengthening in house corporate level capacity to implement the provision of ESMF; • Creating Awareness, providing the tools for implementation of Environmental and Social Management Framework, and accompanying set of management procedures to all departments; • Developing competence within key employees to provide training in their respective departments. P A G E | 97 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 7 Based on the training needs identification PIU and Region/ Division office are key organizational support groups identified, which need to have the required competence to integrate the ESMF document within all departments. The skill requirement for these groups is depicted in Table 7.1. Based on skill requirement/improvement at all levels for proper implementation of ESMF, a training programme focusing personnel from Corporate Office, PIU and Region/ Division Field office is developed (Table 7.2) which will be implemented by the WBSEDCL. These training programs are to be conducted with the help of local and national training institutions and experts who have substantial experience in the environmental and social management in the distribution sector including a good understanding of the World Bank’s Environmental and Social Standards requirement, shall conduct classroom training sessions for all staff likely to be involved in subproject planning & implementation. P A G E | 98 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 7 TABLE 7.1: WBSEDCL’S SKILL REQUIREMENT Sl. PIU-WBSEDCL WBSEDCL Regional/Divisional Offices of Milestone No. (Corporate Level) (Corporate Level) WBSEDCL (Sub-project Site Level) 1. Environmental &Social ESMF& Project Cycle, FA E & S issues identification ESIA process, Env. & Soc. issues Screening and Scoping for Requirement, ESIA process, skills and integration in identification, management and Electricity Distribution Env. & Soc. Issues identification conceptualization of mitigation techniques Network &management and Mitigation project,ESIA process techniques 2. Environmental &Social Env. & Soc. Issues identification E & S issues identification ESIA process, Env. & Soc. issues Screening and Scoping for GIS skills, ESIA Process, ESMP skills and integration in identification, management and substation sites Formulation, conceptualization of mitigation techniques project,ESIA process 3. Environmental & Env. & Soc. issues identification E & S issues identification ESIA process, Env. & Soc. issues Social Screening and skills, ESIA Process, ESMP skills and integration in identification, management and Scoping for UG Cabling Formulation conceptualization of mitigation techniques Sub-project sites project, ESIA process 4. Environmental& Social Impact ESIA process, Risk assessment, ESIA & ESMP- Process & ESIA process, Risk assessment, Assessment and Forest Clearance Proposal, techniques Forest Clearance Proposal, Management Plan including Formulation of ESMP including Formulation of ESMP including SEP, SEP, LMP, GDP, TDP, RPF and SEP, LMP, GDP, TDP, RPF, BMP (if LMP, GDP, TDP, RPF, BMP (if Biodiversity Management required) required) Plan(BMP), if required 5. Forest/Wild life Clearance Forest/Wild life Clearance Forest/ Wild life Formulation and uploading of forest process (if required) Proposal clearance Process & Wild life proposals on MoEF&CC Parivesh website and other requirements of Forest/Wild life Clearance. 6. GoWB Approvals, FA Awareness of Central/State laws, requirements, policies on environment and social aspects 7. Social Assessment for SA process, Public consultation SA process, Provisions of RoW- P A G E | 99 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 7 Sl. PIU-WBSEDCL WBSEDCL Regional/Divisional Offices of Milestone No. (Corporate Level) (Corporate Level) WBSEDCL (Sub-project Site Level) Temporary Damages skills SM process compensation and Telegraph act, Public consultation skills SM techniques 8. Execution of ESMP ESIA/ESMP, SEP, LMP, GDP, TDP, Overview ESIA/ESMP, SEP, LMP, GDP, TDP, RPF Works including SEP, LMP, RPF and BMP provisions and BMP provisions implementation. GDP, TDP, RPF and Biodiversity implementation. Management Plan (if required) 9. Monitoring Monitoring Techniques, - Monitoring Techniques Indicators 10. Annual E & S Review Review process - - P A G E | 100 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 7 TABLE 7.2: SKILL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM Training Schedule Duration Of For Awareness/ Orientation Department/Regional/Divisional Course Programme and Training of Staff Manager Offices of WBSEDCL ESMF Content and Workshop ½ day or 1 All Senior staff (Director, All concerned Department and Mechanism for day CE/Adl CE, SE, and Proposed Regional/Divisional Offices Implementation of ESMF ESMF Team at PIU-WBSEDCL ESMF, E&S Assessment and Workshop 2 days Team Member at PIU and PIU Team and concerned Management Process Concerned Officers Regional/Divisional Offices ESMF Project Cycle, Land Training Programme 3 days Team Members of PIU, All concerned Department and Procurement Process, ESIA Finance & Land Department, Regional/Divisional Offices Process, Public Consultation & GRC and Concerned Officers Disclosure, Stakeholder Engagement, Risk Assessment & Management, ESMP P A G E | 101 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 8 8.0 GRIEVANCE REDRESSAL MECHANISM 8.1 GRIEVANCE REDRESSAL MECHANISM This section deals with the Grievance Redressal Mechanism, the Grievance Redressal Cell and the legal options available to the various stakeholders. The grievance redressal process is illustrated in Figure 8.1. 8.1.1 Grievance Redressal System of WBSEDCL A 3-tier grievance redressal mechanism is already in place at WBSEDCL. 1st tier at Customer Care Centre (CCC) Level: At CCC level, any consumer can lodge the complaint at either through WBSEDCL web portal (wbsedcl.in) or docket his complain at toll free number or lodge the complaint directly at CCC. For grievance redressal, there is one dedicated person at junior engineer position at CCC level to look after/document all the grievances. It is the responsibility of Station Manager to redress the same within 21 days. 2nd tier at Regional Level: If the consumer is not satisfied at CCC level or CCC is not empowered to take decision, it can go / refer to the next tier i.e. Regional Grievance Redressal Officer (RGRO). RGRO is designated Officer at the rank of Divisional Engineer. RGRO will decide within 45 day (45-21 =24 days). If grievance is not settled even at this tier, then consumer/RGRO may refer it to the next tier. 3rd tier at Corporate Level: At this level, grievance is looked after by Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Cell. Chief Engineer of CRM Cell is the Chief Grievance Redressal Officer of WBSEDCL and will decide within 60 days (60-45=15 days). Normally, such grievances are addressed by hearing (at all three levels) followed by reasoned order. The Grievance Redressal procedure at WBSEDCL is presented in Appendix 8.1. P A G E | 102 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 8 FIGURE 8.1: GRIEVANCE REDRESSAL PROCESS Grievance lodged by Stakeholder to WBSEDCL in writing or verbally or through Web Portal Grievance/ Complaint Registered and Scrutinized Grievance Redress 1st Level Grievance Redressed (CCC Level) within 21 Days Unresolved Grievance Redress 2nd Level Grievance Redressed (Divisional/Regional Level) within 45 Days Unresolved Grievance Redress 3rd Level Grievance Redressed (Corporate Level) within 60 Days Unresolved Court of Law P A G E | 103 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 8 In order to strengthen the existing 3-tier grievance redressal mechanism of WBSEDCL to effectively address grievances related to ESMP implementation, two additional bodies are proposed to be established; Project Steering Committee (PSC) at the corporate level and Grievance Redressal Committees (GRCs) at the sub-project sites. The proposed grievance redressal mechanism for WBEDGMP is presented in Table 8.1. 8.1.2 Project Steering Committee The established PSC for WBEDGMP under the chairmanship of Additional Chief Engineer (Distribution) of WBSEDCL, shall be used to monitor and review the progress of implementation of ESMP of each sub-project. Additional Chief Engineer (Distribution) WBSEDCL, will be convener of this Committee. This Committee should meet every quarter to review the progress made in the implementation of the ESMP of each sub-project and to solve any grievances of the APs. This Committee will also provide policy related direction to the Grievance Redressal Cell and the participating departments with regard to ESMF. 8.1.3 Grievance Redressal Committee The Grievance Redressal Committee (GRC) will be established at each sub-project site under the chairmanship of Divisional/Regional Manager, WBSEDCL for redressal of grievances of the APs. Designated Divisional Manager of concerned region shall be the convener of this Committee. At the sub-project level, the ESMP Implementing Agency (IA) i.e. contractor will provide support to this Committee. Block/Sub-division/District level head of all participating departments will be members along with a representative of APs and local NGOs/CBOs, if any. TABLE 8.1: GRIEVANCE REDRESSAL MECHANISM FOR WBEDGMP Time Period for Level Agency Redressal of Issues likely to Emerge Responsibility Grievances Sub-Project Grievance Maximum of one • Air & Noise AP/Community Redressal Pollution during Representative, month Committee construction Village/Nagar activities Panchayat/, RM/DM of • Debris/waste WBSEDCL as dumping Chairperson and Env& • Encroachment Social Officer, IA as • Livelihood Convener Corporate Project Steering Maximum of three Assistance Head PIU, AdlCE(Dist), Committee months • Damage & WBSEDCL, as Compensation Chairman, Member P A G E | 104 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 8 Time Period for Level Agency Redressal of Issues likely to Emerge Responsibility Grievances • Access to CPRs (Env & Social Issues), • Temporary PIU-WBSEDCL as disruption of Convener traffic & utility services The proposed PSC and GRCs would be aligned with the existing grievance redressal mechanism of WBSEDCL for easy access and timely redressal of any grievance of the APs and other local people. It is proposed that the APs first register the grievances with the IA. After receipt of grievance, the IA should take them to the Committee (GRC) to take up the matter during the next immediate meeting and initiate measures for redressal. No grievance can be kept pending for more than a month which means the Committee has to meet every month. Implementation of the redressal rests with the PIU. In case the aggrieved party is not satisfied with the proposed redressal measures, it can approach the PSC. If the aggrieved party is not satisfied with the decision of PSC, it can approach the court of law. 8.1.4 Court of Law The APs who are not satisfied with the decision/mechanism has the freedom to move court of law at any stage for redressal of their complaint. In case it is referred to court, the above referred GRM shall cease to take cognizance of complaint. P A G E | 105 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 8 8.2 MECHANISM FOR GRM A systematic Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM) has been evolved for WBEDGMP which would help in resolving grievances/disputes related to the environmental and social performance of the project. The system can be used by the stakeholders including affected persons to flag-off any concerns/grievance/disputes in the project and seek redressal of the same thereby ensuring effective participation. A two tier grievance mechanism has been considered in WBEDGMP and would be active for the entire life of the project. All complaints would be registered by respective Engineer in charge of the site. The complaints can be registered verbally (in person), in writing or by mail or through Web Portal (www.wbsedcl.in). The addresses of the CCC/Divisional Offices/email/ Phone Number would be displayed at the site. The Mail Box would be set up for the purpose at all Customer Care Offices of WBSEDCL in selected districts for implementation of WBEDGMP. The complaints received would be recorded in a Register of Complaints along with the description of compliant, date, Name of the aggrieved along with the contacts. The decision/s regarding the complaint would also be recorded in the register. The decision regarding the Grievance would be communicated to him by Speed Post within 7 days of the decision being reached. The complainant would have 7 days from the receipt of the letter to approach the next level for reconsideration. 8.3 GRM BUDGET All costs involved in resolving the complaints/grievances (meetings, consultations, communication and reporting/information dissemination) will be borne by the WBSEDCL; costs related to escalation of grievances to Court of Law would also be met by WBSEDCL. 8.4 CONSULTATION AND DISCLOSURE Through the process of consultation and disclosures, WBSEDCL would envisage to build participation of stakeholders’ at each stage of project planning and implementation. WBSEDCL would be responsible not only for ensuring participation of the community in the consultation process but to make it effective ensure integration of the feedback received from stakeholder into the project plans where it deems fit. 8.4.1 Consultation A Consultation Framework has been prepared to ensure involvement of stakeholders’ at each stage of project planning and implementation. To ensure community participation at different stages of the project, the Consultation framework for WBEDGMP has been proposed in Table 8.2. P A G E | 106 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 8 TABLE 8.2: SUMMARY OF CONSULTATION FRAMEWORK Responsible Target Project Phase Activity Details Agency Stakeholders Conceptualisation Screening Identification of the Environmental WBSEDCL CCC/Divisional Surveys Environmental and and Social Office, Forest Department, Social Sensitive Areas Consultant District Land Revenue which needs to be Office. excluded Stakeholder Cross-section of Environmental WBSEDCLCCC/Divisional Mapping stakeholders to be and Social Office, Forest Department, identified in order to Consultant District Land Revenue facilitate their Office. participation in the subproject ESMF Disclosure Reference Environmental WBSEDCL CCC/Divisional Framework for and Social Office, Divisional Forest Environmental Consultant Office, District Land &Social Sensitivities Revenue Office, Zila Issues and & Parishad Sabhadhipati/CEO, Mitigations Municipal Corporation Procedures to be Chairman and Public Followed in WBEDGMP Planning Detailed Surveys Identification of the Environmental Local Land Revenue officer, Environmental and and Social Village Panchayat, Local Social Sensitivities Consultant Community people which needs to be avoided Stakeholder Stakeholder WBSEDCL WBSEDCL Region CCC/Divisional meetings engagement Office, Divisional Forest Division Level meetings Office, District Land Revenue Office, Zila Parishad Sabhadhipati/ CEO, Municipal Corporation Chairman Implementation Check Surveys Identification of Contractor along Community People, Local sensitivities along with the Land Revenue officer, RoW Identification WBSEDCL Village Panchayat RM/Divisional Disclosure of Dissemination of Office Final translated (in local Compensation if language) entitlement any / compensation details along with process of disbursement P A G E | 107 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 8 8.4.2 Information Disclosure The information disclosure would provide citizen centric information on the policies and the details of sub-projects along with its implementation process of WBEDGMP. It would be carried out in accordance to the provision of the Right to Information Act 2005 and World Bank ’s Environmental and Social Standard 10 on Stake-holder Engagement and Information Disclosure. The WBEDGMP Information Disclosure Procedure would ensure that information concerning safeguard documents in respect of WBEDGMP’s activities is made available to the public including Executive Summaries of all major documents in local language without any confidentiality for wider dissemination of information. The type and timing of the disclosure, channels to be used, frequency and duration of disclosure in WBEDGMP are presented in Table 8.3. TABLE 8.3: SUMMARY OF INFORMATION DISCLOSUREPLAN Documents to be Frequency and Duration Project Phase Channels of Disclosure disclosed of Disclosure Project Planning ESMF including Disclosure after Website of WBSEDCL, World Bank Info Resettlement finalization and approval. shop, Executive Summary of ESMF in Framework, Tribal Will remain disclosed for local language. Development the entire life of the Framework and project Gender Action Plan Environment and Social Disclosure after Website of WBSEDCL, World Bank Info Impact Assessmentfinalization and shop, WBSEDCL Regional/Divisional including the Environment approval. Will remain Office. Executive Summary of ESIA in and Social Management disclosed during the local language. Plan (ESMP) entire lifecycle of project Resettlement Action Plans Disclosure Website of WBSEDCL, World Bank Info after (if required) and Tribal finalization andshop, WBSEDCL Regional/Divisional Development Plans (if approval. Will remain Office and Places like – Zila Parishad required) disclosed during the Office, local Gram Panchayat or entire lifecycle of projectMunicipal Office, or Contractor’s Office, if any with Executive Summary of RAP in local language. Implementation Grievance Redressal Once it is set up WBSEDCL PIU, Regional/Divisional Mechanism (GRM) Office of WBSEDCL, Contractor’s Office, local Gam Panchayat or Municipal Office Information regarding Once at the start of the Through leaflets, or other IEC Land losers, if any and project and as and when materials, especially developed for their entitlements demanded by the APs the purpose in local language One to one consultations with project affected people (APs)& Community consultations P A G E | 108 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 8 Documents to be Frequency and Duration Project Phase Channels of Disclosure disclosed of Disclosure ESMP, RPF/TDP (if any) At regular intervals Extracts put up at WBSEDCL PIU, Implementation Regional/Divisional Office. Full Report Report available on WBSEDCL Website. 8.4.3 Feedback Mechanism The feedback of the project affected persons/citizens would be captured through the Division/Regional offices of WBSEDCL and conveyed to WBSEDCL PIU for necessary action. The feedback mechanism as discussed in the Grievance Redresses Mechanism would be used. P A G E | 109 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 9 9.0 MONITORING & EVALUATION 9.1 MONITORING AND REPORTING The WBSEDCL PIU through the respective Region/Division Offices would monitor the implementation of the environmental and social safeguards in all the subprojects to ensure conformity to the requirements of the ESMF/ESIA and ESMP. The monitoring would be carried out through the subproject wise Monthly Progress Reports (MPR) submitted by the Region/Division Offices of WBSEDCL implementing the subproject. The designated Environmental Officer and Social Officer of the WBSEDCL PIU would also visit the site regularly for the purpose of monitoring and supervision. The reporting would capture information from the Contractors/Implementing Agency to Region/Division Offices and through a graduated process of consolidations, analysis and assessment, a monthly progress report will be send by the Division Office to the Environment and Social Officers at WBSEDCL PIU. The WBSEDCL PIU would review these monthly reports and identify technical, managerial or regulatory and safeguard issues with regards to the compliance of the ESIA/ESMP provisions. A corrective action plan would be developed by the WBSEDCL PIU and debated internally to determine the appropriate interventions. These interventions would be conveyed to the WBSEDCL Management through a Quarterly report for approval and subsequently implemented by WBSEDCL PIU. The PIU would prepare a quarterly progress report (QPR) with ESMP compliance status and Semi-annual monitoring report and present it to the WBSEDCL and World Bank The monthly reports will use a set of progress and output indicators to compare the progress of the project to targets set up at the commencement of the project. Table 9.1 presents the Monitoring framework, frequency and Responsibility for Environmental and Social Monitoring. P A G E | 110 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 9 TABLE 9.1: Monitoring Framework Project Activity / SN Monitoring Indicator Frequency Responsibility Stage 1 Pre-Construction Pole Location and Line/UG Once - at time of WBSEDCL PIU alignment w.r.t. Distances from; detailed siting and a. Set back from nearest alignment survey dwellings or social and design institutions b. Water bodies c. Agricultural land d. Ecological protected area e. Reserved forests f. Flood Zone g. Biodiversity Exclusion of PCB in DTR Once – As part of WBSEDCL PIU tender specification Exclusion of CFC in electrical or Once – As part of WBSEDCL PIU other equipment tender specification EMF strength Once – part of WBSEDCL PIU detailed alignment survey Noise level from substation Once – built in WBSEDCL PIU design criteria and specified in tender Noise during construction Once – during WBSEDCL PIU construction and assigned machinery contractor specification Compensation plan for temporary Once a quarter – WBSEDCL PIU or permanent loss of productive Based on land, trees. Monitoring of; consultation with a) RAP PAP b) Crop compensation plan c) TPDP d) LMP 2. Construction Government Clearances if Once for each WBSEDCL applicable subproject P A G E | 111 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 9 Project Activity / SN Monitoring Indicator Frequency Responsibility Stage Drainage system for GIS substation Once – in tender WBSEDCL PIU specification Fire prevention and fire protection Once – in tender WBSEDCL PIU equipment monitoring specification Crop disturbance during Periodically when WBSEDCL PIU construction required assigned contractor RAP /TPDP implementation if Before start of WBSEDCL PIU applicable civil work BMP Implementation Prior to start of WBSEDCL PIU any work in protected areas. Air borne dust emissions during Every two weeks WBSEDCL PIU construction assigned contractor Vegetation marking and clearance Every two weeks – WBSEDCL PIU strictly limited to assigned target vegetation contractor Trimming and cutting of trees in Once per site – WBSEDCL PIU ROW Identification of assigned presence of target contractor species with height following vegetation clearance plan Disposal of cleared vegetation Once per site – as WBSEDCL PIU approved by assigned statutory contractor authorities Disposal of excess excavated soil Every 2 weeks WBSEDCL PIU assigned contractor 3 Operation and Effectiveness of Training programs Once a year WBSEDCL Maintenance and plan Compliance with pole/UG setback Once in quarter WBSEDCL conditions Air Quality & Noise levels at Once a year WBSEDCL boundary nearest to substations Battery Disposal as per required During disposal WBSEDCL norms/rules P A G E | 112 ESMF for West Bengal Electricity Distribution Grid Modernization Project Chapter 9 9.2 BUDGET FOR ESMF IMPLEMENTATION Estimated cost of ESMF implementation may vary from 1-3% of total project cost depending on the ecological sensitivity of sub –project area as well as required mitigative measures for offsetting likely potential adverse environmental and social impacts. P A G E | 113