Aid Memoire | RCIP 6th ISM, May 27- June 3, 2024 AIDE MEMOIRE Project: Cambodia Road Connectivity Improvement Project Project Stage: Implementation Team Leader(s): Sadig Aliyev, Veasna Bun, Bowen Wang Project Number P169930 Board Approval Date 16-Jul-2020 Closing Date 31-May-2029 IDA Number IDA-6767; IDA-7518 Effectiveness Date 26-Oct-2020 Disbursements US$25M Total Financing (inc.AF) USD 135M Mission Start Date 27-May-2024 Mission End Date 3-June-2024 INTRODUCTION 1. The World Bank team conducted the sixth implementation support mission for the Cambodia Road Connectivity Improvement Project (RCIP) and Additional Financing (AF) between May 27 – June 3, 2024. The objectives of the mission were to review the project implementation progress jointly with the Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MPWT) and the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD). This Aide-Memoire summarizes the mission findings and agreements reached during the mission wrap-up meeting on June 3, 2024, with MRD, MPWT, and the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF) representatives. The mission would like to express its appreciation to the Royal Government of Cambodia (RGC) counterparts for their excellent collaboration during the mission. The Aide Memoire contains the following Annexes: (1) List of Persons Met; (2) Field Visit Summary; (3) FM Review and Recommendation and (4) Results Framework. RATINGS Progress towards The PDO remains relevant. Processing the AF resolved a key issue related to the Satisfactory achieving PDO financing gap, enabling the project to achieve all objectives during its life. ◄► Implementation Most agreed actions of the previous mission were implemented in a timely manner. Satisfactory Progress Implementation of works is progressing across all three components. The FY24 ◄► disbursement ratio has reached 19% (as of June 10) and is expected to accelerate further. Project MPWT and MRD maintain adequate capacity and resources to manage the project. Satisfactory Management They have also mobilized supervision consultants to support project implementation. ◄► Financial The project maintains sufficient cash in the designated accounts to cover eligible Management Satisfactory expenditures. MPWT and MRD submit IFRs and AWPB to the Bank. The counterpart ◄► funds from MEF are made available to the project. Procurement The project completed procurement packages totaling about $102 million. MRD is Satisfactory finalizing the last road package for rebidding using a rated criteria approach. ◄► Monitoring and Both IAs have dedicated staff to support M&E as well as support of the supervision Satisfactory Evaluation consultant. The progress on RF was discussed and updated during the mission. ◄► Environmental and The ESO staff and focal points of MPWT and MRD were assigned and mobilized. C- Satisfactory Social Framework ESMPs have been prepared under both Components. Contractors are required to ◄► ensure full implementation of the C-ESMPs. Grievance Redress MPWT and MRD maintain the GRM in line with the project requirements. The GRM No rating Mechanism functionality has been improved following the recommendation of the last mission. Occupational The Contractors received training on occupational health and safety and the Health and Safety prevention of sexual harassment and sexual exploitation, and additional training will No rating be conducted throughout the project implementation. Rating Trends: ▲ Improving. ▼ Deteriorating; ◄ ► No change. 1 Aid Memoire | RCIP 6th ISM, May 27- June 3, 2024 PROGRESS SUMMARY AND KEY ISSUES 2. The Additional Financing (AF) to the project in the amount of $35 million was approved by the World Bank Board of Directors on March 15, 2024, addressing the key implementation issue related to the financing gap. The project restructuring extended the project closing date by 22 months to May 31, 2029, and updated the Result Framework. The Financing Agreement on AF was signed on May 2, 2024. The mission was informed that the legal opinion of the Ministry of Justice (MOJ) on the Financing Agreement is expected by the end of June 2024. 3. MRD and MPWT demonstrate a strong commitment to the project with steady progress achieved across all project activities. The project completed the procurement of 27 packages, with a total amount of about $102 million in commitment under the MPWT and MRD components. MRD is finalizing the tender documents for the last OPBRC package to launch the rebidding process by the end of June and award the contract by December 2024. Other road works packages are in the implementation phase, with disbursement reaching $25 million (as of June 10). The Bank team conducted a field trip to review the ongoing works and discussed the key contract management issues with MPWT and MRD to accelerate progress and ensure the quality of work. The mission also urged MPWT and MRD to strengthen traffic management and safety measures along the project roads and in construction areas. Implementation of the major institutional activities has also been launched, including the development of the Rural Roads Financing Strategy by MRD and the Upgrade of the Road Crash Database System by MPWT. An action plan for the next 6 months was agreed upon with MPWT and MRD and included in the Aide Memoire. 4. The mission noted a good practice of cooperation between MPWT and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) team in Kratie in monitoring the works near the Mekong River (PR377/PR377A road). Since December 2023, the MPWT has undertaken five monitoring visits, two of which jointly with WWF and the local Fishery Administration, and, with additional research and observations, determined the noise and vibration levels on the river surface and underwater, which do not cause impacts to the welfare and behavior of the river dolphins. Measuring equipment has been installed on the river coast near the habitat area (Kratie pool) to closely control the noise, vibration, and air quality parameters and ensure these are within the admissible limits. The work that could cause noise and vibration has been completed by now. The mission advised the supervision consultant and contractor to maintain these good practices, especially where the work continues on slope stabilization and riverbank protection. 5. The mission noted the commitment and proactive efforts of MRD and MPWT toward fulfilling the project's female employment targets. MRD and MPWT have exceeded targeted female employment rates (target 15%), reaching 23% and 17%, respectively, as per the recorded data in May 2024, largely contributed by the number of female unskilled laborers. Despite this significant achievement, the mission encouraged the contractors to continue efforts to enable female employment, both non-skilled and skilled workers, and promote equal employment opportunities. The mission recommended the contractors make open and transparent communications to make sure that local community women are well informed about employment opportunities, wages, and safety measures offered. DETAILED PROJECT PROGRESS Component 1: National and Provincial Roads Improvement 6. This component finances (a) the improvement and maintenance of about 130km of roads, including the National Road (NR) 73, Provincial Road (PR) 377; PR377A, and NR7 section of (km300–331) using Output and Performance Based Road Contracts (OPBRC); and (b) supervision and design services. Contractors are mobilized, and the implementation of the work is progressing. The mission conducted a field visit jointly with MPWT. MPWT OPBRC Contracts Commencement Completion Road length (km) Signed contract amount ($US) C1-CW1: NR7 Nov 1, 2023 Apr 30, 2025 31.250 12,689,925.61 C1-CW2: NR73 July 1, 2023 Dec 31, 2024 49.812 13,982,390.94 C1-CW3: PR377/PR377A June 15, 2023 Dec 14, 2024 48.593 25,717,165.38 7. C1-CW1 (NR7; 31.3km, Contractor Poly Changda): This contract is progressing ahead of schedule with 79 percent completion at the date of the field mission. The road improvement works are expected to be substantially completed by the end of June 2024 (and full completion is expected by August-September). On the technical side, the 2 Aid Memoire | RCIP 6th ISM, May 27- June 3, 2024 mission observed that the Contractor used a pavement design with high bitumen content (5.2%) - such high bitumen content is usually not recommended in hot climates, as it may lead to pavement bleeding and rutting - therefore, the situation should be closely monitored. The contractor was reminded that the section would be under the contractor's responsibility during the defect liability and maintenance phase. MPWT will need to issue a formal completion certificate for the rehabilitation phase, formally setting the start of the maintenance phase. The Contractor should submit the organization for the maintenance, including the self-control unit, which must be reviewed and approved by the supervision engineer before the start of the maintenance phase. 8. C1-CW2 (NR73; 50.0km, Nim Meng-Proco JV): Progress on this contract has been slow, with only 10km of the completed section. The Contractor confirmed to the MPWT and WB team its immediate plan, including the completion of two more milestones (10km) in June, one milestone (5km) in July, and one milestone (5km) in August. Additional drainage works would be required in several locations. Before approving additional works, the WB mission recommended that MPWT observe the progress by the end of June 2024 to assess the contractor's capacity and commitment. The contractor also needs to improve traffic management, including delineation with retention and night-time visibility in construction areas. If the contractor fails to achieve the agreed targets, MPWT was advised to apply penalties and consider other remedial actions as per contract provisions. 9. C1-CW3 (PR. 377 & PR. 377A; 35.5km & 13.6km, Poly Changda): The contractor has made good progress with the reconstruction of 9 bridges. While progress is slightly behind schedule, with the bridges expected to be completed in August 2024, the remaining works can be completed on time. Good practice was noted in the construction of the bridge close to the Mekong area, where the bridge design was adjusted to minimize the noise and vibration impact, and a special construction timeline was followed to mitigate potential risks in the dolphin area. The riverbank protection works are also progressing. Traffic Management in the first section is overall acceptable, but improvements are needed in the last 10 km of PR377. The Contractor was requested to add reflective tape and light along the construction areas and place the delineation with sufficient visibility at day and nighttime. Proper traffic management is critical as the road passes through communities in some sections, and the space is limited. The mission also highlighted the importance of properly maintaining the section during the rainy season, as most of the section is at sub-grade or sub-base level, likely resulting in slippery conditions during and after rain. Component 2: Rural Roads Improvement 10. This component finances (a) the improvement and maintenance of prioritized rural roads in three project provinces of about 270km, using the OPBRC approach, and (b) the design and supervision activities of the MRD project roads. Three out of four civil work contracts have been awarded, and re-tendering of the last package is underway. MRD OPBRC Contracts Commencement Completion Road length (km) Contract amount ($US) C2-CW1- Lot1: Kratie TBC TBC 8 roads, total length 72.9km TBC C2-CW1- Lot2: Kratie Jun 2024 Dec 2025 6 roads, total length 61.5km 14,084,022.61 C2-CW2: Kampong Cham Jun 13, 2023 Dec 13, 2024 7 roads, total length 75.3km 14,076,096.06 C2-CW3: Tboung Khmum Nov 23, 2023 May 23, 2025 6 roads, total length 67.6km 11,633,888.68 11. MRD is using a hybrid OPBRC approach, and although the road improvement works are to be calculated for payment based on BOQ, it should be paid for completed outputs as per contract specifications. Therefore, outputs triggering the issuance of the payment must be agreed upon between MRD and the contractors, as the milestones for payment are not clearly fixed in the works contracts. The mission recommended triggering payments on the part of the works that are not vulnerable to rain and not likely to deteriorate during the rainy season, such as pipe and box culverts, base-course, DBST, or road furniture completed for a significant consecutive length. The mission also recommended, at this stage, not opening many new sections for earthworks and sub-grade as the rainy season is starting, but rather closing sub-grade, base course, and, where possible, DBST to protect the completed works from the upcoming rains, achieve completed outputs for payments, and focus on structure works during the rainy seasons. 12. C2-CW2 (75.30km, M.T.A Construction & No.203 Research Institute of Nuclear Industry JV): The physical progress of works on site was announced to be 54%; however, not all these works have been accepted and certified, and the actual progress was estimated to be lower. This contract implementation is delayed, which creates the risk of 3 Aid Memoire | RCIP 6th ISM, May 27- June 3, 2024 not completing construction works as planned by December 2024. The mission discussed with MRD, supervision consultant, and contractor the importance of addressing some observed issues, such as (i) use of the clayey material with high PI (plastic index) for the sub-base, which leads to shrinkage cracks where the upper layer needs to be reworked; (ii) checking of the pre-casted U-ditches stored in the yard before placing on the site, (iii) absence of grading and compaction of spread base course for excessive lengths, leading to safety issues, but also possible segregation and future quality issues; (iv) quality and shape of the chipping used for the DBST, with too important elongation - the chipping should be crushed with acceptable shape. Both the supervision consultant and contractor should take immediate action to improve traffic management with proper signage and delineation with day and night-time visibility using reflective tape or similar. Finally, MRD plans to improve the profile on a section of KC12, where an existing old concrete pavement needs to be demolished. The design for this location is underway, and the Consultant shall determine the design solution and eventual cost implications for MRD, to be submitted to the WB for review. 13. C2-CW3 (67.6km, Ung Sim Sia Construction): The Contractor has mobilized sufficient equipment and staff on site, and works are progressing. The borrow-pit arranged by the Contractor appears to present heterogeneous material that needs to be selected carefully at the spot before delivery on site to avoid further problems. The contractor’s laboratory is functioning, but the use of MRD facilities is not recommended, as it does not meet the objective of development of the contractor’s own capacity. The WB team and MRD discussed some required changes in the scope: (i) exclusion of a 6km section on TBK-27, which was already improved with government funds, (ii) inclusion of a 5-6km section at the end of the same road, where two alternative alignments can be improved, and those need to be assessed by the supervision consultant including hydrology, cross-section, environmental and social impacts, and cost. MRD will submit the request for scope adjustment to the Bank by the end of July 2024, with supporting technical assessments. Component 3: Institutional Development and Project Management 14. MPWT: The mission discussed the progress on Subcomponent 3, managed by MPWT, as summarized below: • Road Crash Database Update: MPWT signed this contract with SWEROAD (Sweden) in early May 2024, and the technical assistance is in the inception phase. The Bank team, MPWT project team, and Secretariat of the National Road Safety Commission (NRSC) jointly met with consultants and discussed the work plan and coordination arrangements. The Secretariat of NRSC appointed a focal point to work closely with consultants. The consultant was reminded to look for practical and simple solutions, with full involvement and training of the MPWT and NRSC teams, as well as the final handover of data, source codes, and manuals so stakeholders can operate the products. • Community-Based Road Safety Program: MPWT contracted a local NGO—Community Development of Humanitarian Association (CDOH)—to design and implement the road safety awareness program. The identification of stakeholders, development of training materials, and implementation plan are under preparation. The Consultant will also prepare standard solutions for safe school zones, which MPWT will review and share with the WB team. • Road Safety Audit: MPWT has involved the local Road Safety Auditor (RSA) (the same as for RAMPII) to conduct road safety audits for the designs of MPWT project roads. MPWT informed the Bank team that a review of designs by consultants was completed, and the RSA works closely with the supervision team to advise the contractor on recommended design changes. The Bank team requested that MPWT submit an audit report at the design stage by June 21, 2024. It was agreed that MPWT will procure the services of an International Road Safety Expert to support both RCIP and RAM2 projects. 15. MRD. The mission discussed the progress on Subcomponent 3, managed by MRD, as summarized below. • Rural Roads Financing Strategy: The contract with consultants Sheladia (USA) started in March 2024, and the Inception report was finalized in April 2024. The Consultant is progressing with the preparation of the financing strategy and uses the current data of the RRAMS. Even though the existing RRAMS does not contain data for lower volume rural roads (T3 and T4), it is essential that the new strategy covers the whole rural road network managed by MRD. This may require developing a network-level model by estimating conditions and traffic levels from existing 4 Aid Memoire | RCIP 6th ISM, May 27- June 3, 2024 information. The Bank team requested MRD to facilitate consultants' contact with the MEF and the IMF study team on the maintenance framework. MRD was also requested to ensure close coordination with other related works, including RID4CAM surveys and SEADRM2, to avoid overlaps and effectively progress on the RRAMS improvement. • Rural Road Safety Audit and Awareness Building: The contract with the SWEROAD (Sweden) consultants includes two main components: road safety audits and road safety awareness campaigns on MRD project roads. The Consultant already submitted the inception report and is advancing on the road safety audits for the design stage. The consultant was encouraged to liaise with other projects and ongoing initiatives related to the road safety awareness campaigns, including on preparation of training materials that should be aligned for use throughout Cambodia. The mission stated that a training plan with the target groups and villages and an exact implementation plan should be developed. The use of social media, as well as village broadcasting, should be considered. • Rural Transport Service Study: The contract with ARUP started in early May 2024 for a 5-month duration and is currently in the Inception Phase. The Bank team and MRD jointly met the consultants and discussed the work program. The Consultants plan to conduct surveys in June 2024. The Bank team stressed the importance of this study to improve rural transportation services in Cambodia and advised to make a clear distinction between private transport (including transportation of factory workers) and public transport services, looking at the example of neighboring countries, in particular Thailand. MRD and the Bank team agreed to review the inception report and to schedule additional online meetings to be agreed on demand. FIDUCIARY 16. Financial Management (FM). The FM rating of the project remains Satisfactory. The project maintains sufficient cash in the designated accounts to cover the eligible expenditures, proper control of assets, and monitoring of payments. MPWT and MRD submitted IFRs, AWPB, and withdrawal applications to the Bank regularly. Disbursement has reached about US$25M as of June 10, 2024, and is expected to accelerate further, with all contracts now under implementation. The total amount of US$199,690 was documented under the project accounts from the counterpart funds to cover the government project staff time. The mission provided the following recommendations: (i) improve disbursement projections by working closely with the supervision consultant; (ii) increase the project spending as per the approved AWPB of 2024, (iii) expedite the project implementation by monitoring the budget lines closely by each responsible entity through monthly and quarterly meetings, (iv) organize a tax clinic to explain the treatment of taxes in the contract forms and (vi) submit the audit reports of 2023 to the Bank (Annex 3). 17. Procurement. The project procurement performance remains Satisfactory. The project completed 27 packages totaling over $102 million in commitments under MPWT and MRD components. • MPWT completed 12 procurement packages out of 17 in the procurement plan with a total cumulative contract amount of around US$ 57.10 million. The completed packages include 3 OPBRC packages for works, 2 goods packages and 7 service packages. MPWT will also recruit an International Road Safety Specialist as agreed during the mission. The mission also discussed the proposed specification of the van and suggested that MPWT prepare a standard specification to procure it through a competitive process. • MRD completed 15 procurement packages out of 17 in the agreed plan with a total cumulative contract amount of around US$ 45.35 million. The completed packages include 3 OPBRC works contracts, 5 goods packages, 5 IC packages and 4 consulting services packages. The mission discussed the progress of two remaining packages (i) the recruitment of a Monitoring and Evaluation consultant, which is at the EoI stage and expected to sign a contract in July 2024, and (ii) the rebidding of road works for CW1-Lot 1 with the estimated budget of US$ 15.3 million which is applying the rated criteria – MRD aims to complete this contract award by December 2024. The mission also recommended extending the contract for international procurement consultant for more than 6 months on a part-time basis to align it with the estimated timeline for completion of the CW1-Lot 1 rebidding process. The Bank will provide procurement training on Rated Criteria to MPWT and MRD teams in early July 2024. • ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL STANDARDS 5 Aid Memoire | RCIP 6th ISM, May 27- June 3, 2024 18. The project environmental and social (E&S) performance rating remains satisfactory. The mission found improvements since the last mission and highlighted the areas needing continued attention, including road safety and consultations with local communities and affected people. For MPWT, the mission recommended expediting construction works where shops are located to minimize the impact on livelihoods (CW1 and CW3 contracts). Additionally, the mission recommends improving workers' camps with well-ventilated structures and sanitation (CW2 contract, contractor Nim Meng; following the mission, actions were taken by the contractor to address the issues identified on workers camp). For MRD, the mission highlighted continuing regular consultations, including reporting on documented agreements from affected people (KC-39) and ensuring sufficient consultations for the (KTB-27) before and during construction. The mission raised with MRD the importance of timely payment of wages by contractor MTA. 19. The mission was pleased to witness the engagement of MPWT with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) in monitoring the behavior and population of the Mekong dolphins in the vicinity of the project sites on PR377/PR377A road (CW3), including the reconstruction of Bridge#4. Since December 2023, the MPWT has undertaken five monitoring visits, two of which jointly with WWF and the local Fishery Administration (FA), and, with additional research and observations, determined the noise and vibration levels on the surface and underwater, which do not cause impacts to the welfare and behavior of the dolphins. Measuring equipment has been installed on the river coast near the habitat area (Kratie pool) to closely control the noise, vibration, and air quality parameters and ensure these are within the admissible limits. The work that could cause noise and vibration is completed on Bridge#4. The mission advised the supervision consultant and contractor to maintain good practices, especially where works continue on slope stabilization and riverbank protection and implement ESMP measures to prevent littering of the banks and river water and incoming stream from any waste (construction, domestic, accidental fuel leaks) as well as measures to suppress dust and demarcate and fence the construction sites. 20. Improvements were noted in the management of construction campsites under both Components 1 and 2, including proper waste management, sanitation facilities, and worker safety. MRD clarified the legal status of three borrow pits, which are now properly arranged and fenced, with plans for material extraction and reinstatement in progress. The mission requested the submission of the Bank of the Borrow Pit Management Plans (BPMP). Vegetation- clearing impacts were discussed, with the Bank team recommending replanting or compensatory planting. For an alternative road segment (6km length) proposed by MRD, environmental and social due diligence is required, necessitating an update or addendum to the existing ESMP and C-ESMP, followed by redisclosure and consultation before work commences. Community safety measures should always be reinforced at construction sites to avoid unauthorized entrance. 21. Gender. The mission noted the commitment and proactive efforts of MRD and MPWT toward fulfilling the female employment targets of the project, particularly in promoting job opportunities for local women. MRD and MPWT have exceeded targeted female employment rates (target 15%), reaching 23% and 17%, respectively, as per the recorded data in May 2024, largely contributed by the number of female unskilled laborers. Despite this significant achievement, the mission encouraged the contractors to continue efforts to enable female employment, both non- skilled and skilled workers, and promote equal employment opportunities for women and men. The mission recommended the contractors make open and transparent communications to make sure that local community women are well informed about employment opportunities, wages, and safety measures offered. 6 Aid Memoire | RCIP 6th ISM, May 27- June 3, 2024 ACTION PLAN Actions Area Responsibility Date Additional Financing effectiveness 1 Submit to the Bank the Legal Opinion on AF Credit AF MEF June 28 MPWT Agreed Actions CW-2 close monitoring of progress in line with the agreed targets for 2 C1 MPWT June 28 completion of milestones for June, July and August. 3 CW3 completion of bridge works C1 MPWT Aug 31 4 At construction sites, ensure measures are taken to prevent unauthorized entry. ES MPWT Immediate Establish a coordination task force involving MPWT project team, NRSC C3 MPWT July 15 5 Secretariat, and consultants for the Road crash database technical assistance 6 Selection of National Gender Specialist Procurement MPWT Aug 31 7 Submit to WB the ToR of the International Road Safety Advisor Procurement MPWT July 15 8 Submit mid- year budget revision (AWPB 2024) for the WB review FM MPWT July 30 9 Tax clinic about appropriate tax in the contract forms of the project financing FM MPWT & WB July 30 MRD Agreed Actions 10 Reconfirm with Contractors CW1-Lot2, CW2, CW3 on output-related payment MRD C2 July 15 and submission of payment schedule 11 Retender CW1-Lot 1 C2 MRD June 28 12 Contract award for CW1-Lot 2 C2 MRD Dec 20 13 Sign the contract for the National Monitoring and Evaluation Consultant Procurement MRD July 15 14 At camp CW3-TBK13 improve workers’ accommodation and fuel storage ES MRD June 21 15 At camp CW3-TBK13 provide clear zone distinguishing for the accommodation ES MRD June 21 and working area 16 The MTA contractor: Ensure full and timely payment of wages to workers ES MRD Every month 17 Follow up on the status of consultations with communities in the villages along ES MRD June 21 to the KC-39 and document it. 18 Ensure consultation and regular engagement with the people along TBK-27 ES MRD Ongoing before and during construction 19 Report to the Bank on expected tree clearing, and how replanting or ES MRD June 30 compensatory planting can be implemented 20 Send the ESMR for December 2023 – May 2024 ES MRD Jun 21 21 Submit for Bank’s review three BPMPs ES MRD June 28 Both MPWT and MRD (project wide) 22 Procurement training on Rated Criteria Procurement WB Early July 23 Corrective actions on traffic management according to mission findings All contracts MPWT and MRD Immediate 24 Submit a disbursement projection for FY25 (July 2024 – June 2025) FM MPWT and MRD July 15 25 FM clinic to explain arrangements for the pooled bank accounts for AF. FM MPWT, MRD, WB Sep 30 26 Submit IFR (July to December 2024) to the Bank FM MPWT & MRD Feb 2025 27 Submit the annual audited project financial statements and management letters FM MPWT & MRD June 28 for financial year 2023 28 Furnish the internal audit report to the project management team of MPWT and FM MPWT & MRD Nov 30 MRD and made it availability to the World Bank NEXT MISSION 1. The next implementation support mission will take place in early November 2024. 7 Aid Memoire | RCIP 6th6th ISM, May 27- June 3, 2024 ANNEX 1: PERSONS MET AND TEAM MEMBERS Name Title Ministry of Rural Development H.E Dr. Chan Darong Secretary of State and Project Director for RCIP Mr. Pheng Sambo Director of Planning and Public Relations and Project Manager for RCIP Ms. Keo Nessay Procurement Coordination Officer Mr. Eng Diman Procurement Officer Mr. Toch Vannak Finance Officer Mrs. Ing Ghich Eng Accountant Mrs. Ven Sunneary Assistant Procurement Ms. Vuthy Sokanchana Assistant Finance Ms. Sim Sophaktra Cashier Mr. Sok Vannak Engineer Mr. Chhun Chamroeun Engineer Mr. Houer Chanthol Engineer Mr. Ouk Ek Emil Environmental Officer Mr. Thou Chantha Social safeguard Officer Ms. Sau Povvoleak Social Safeguard Officer Ms. Chuop Leakhena Gender Ms. Sreytouch San Gender Mr. Song Kimsot Road Safety Officer Mr. Beang Phalkun Resettlement Officer Mr. Sour Pheach Financial Management Consultant Mr. Hang Sophal Safeguard Consultant Mr. Jeon Young Yong International Procurement Consultant Mr. An Syna Director, PDRD Tbong Khmom Province Mr. Ing Visoth Director, PDRD Kampong Cham Province Mr. Lim Cheavhav Director, PDRD Kratie Province Mr. Ho-yeun Mo Team Leader of MRD-RCIP (KCI) Mr. Hyo-Bae Kim International Residential Engineer (KCI) Ms. Ester M. FELIX International Social Safeguards Specialist (KCI) Ms. Andrelita Sto. Domingo International Environmental Specialist (KCI) Ms. Nam Chivy Gender expert (KCI) Mr. KONG Sovansay Environment Specialist (KCI) Mr. KHEANG Sovann OHS Engineer (KCI) Mr. CHEM Phalla Social Safeguards Specialist (KCI) Mr. Vimal Patel Team Leader, (Sweroad), Consultant Mr. Per-Olof Lovmar Project Manager (Sweroad) Mr. Lor Ra National Communication Specialist (Sweroad) Mr. Corey Wong Team Leader (ARUP), Consultant Dr. Kheang Phun Deputy Team Leader (ARUP) Ms. Thanh Duong Transport Planner Mr. Makito Shirahige Transport Planner Mr. Voitto Kuronen Team Leader (Sheladia), Consultant Mr. Jens Abraham Transport Economist (Sheladia) Mr. Keith Cornish Road Sector Financing Specialist (Sheladia) Mr. Khan Ra Deputy Team Leader (Sheladia) Mr. Chorn Nak Senior GIS Specialist (Sheladia) 8 Aid Memoire | RCIP 6th6th ISM, May 27- June 3, 2024 Ms. Thoeun Chheavhun Senior Road Asset Management (Sheladia) Ministry of Public Works and Transport H.E. Pheng Sovicheano Secretary of State, Project Director H.E. MIN Meanvy Secretary of State, NRSC Mr. Kang Phirith Project Manager Mr. Sar Vutha Finance Manager Mr. Prak Vanna RDCMU Manager Mr. Bou Sereypiseth Director of Monitoring & Evaluation Dept Mr. Prok Novida Director of Planning Department Mr. Chan Davuth Director of Internal Audit Department Mr. Khun Soth Technical Manager Mr. Sok Sam An Procurement Coordinator Mr. Prum Vantha Director, Department of Road Traffic Safety Mr. Boran Sattya Deputy Director, Department of Road Traffic Safety Ms. Tho Dalin Department of Road Traffic Safety Mr. Man Pisey Deputy Director of Internal Audit Department Mr. Krey Sophannatt IT, Department of Road Traffic Safety Mr. Sea Sochivoan Senior Technical Officer Mr. Neak Sophea Technical Officer Mr. Duk Heng Counterpart-CW1 Mr. Im Vuthan Counterpart-CW2 Mr. Sao Premarak Counterpart-CW3 Ms. Em Kannitha Senior Admin Assistant/Secretary Mr. Eab Ngoun Heng Procurement Assistant/IT Mr. Koy Ralis Accountant Mr. Khek Sopheakna Cashier Ms. Sourng Sreymuch Assistant Accountant Ms. Sok Daryka Assistant Accountant/Clerk Mr. Srey Vireak ESO staff Mr. Bour Chhayya ESO staff Ms. Sarun Chanty Official of Monitoring & Evaluation Department Mr. Heng Phearum Official of Monitoring & Evaluation Department Ms. Roern Sina Gender Officer Ms. Sar Monyrath Gender Officer Mr. Kong Sopheak Environmental Consultant Ms. Kan Sopheary National Procurement Assistant Mr. Inderjeet Singh Team Leader/ Project Manager, KCI (supervision consultants) Mr. Gil Hyun Park IRE, KCI (supervision consultants) Mr. Ranjith Gunawardana International Material Engineer, KCI (supervision consultants) Mr. Sin Rath NRE-3, ISWS-RCIP Mr. Long Bore National Assistant Accountant Mr. Seng Bora National Social Safeguards Consultant Mr. Sam Oeurn Sothy Roth National Environmental Supervision Consultant Mr. Phea Kimvong National road safety consultant Mr. Alam Ashadul Internal Environmental and Social Expert Ministry of Economic and Finance Mr. Hak Ponnarin Deputy Director, Department of Project Portfolio Management Ms. Nguon Socheat Deputy Chief, Office of Multilateral Cooperation 2, GDICDB 9 Aid Memoire | RCIP 6th6th ISM, May 27- June 3, 2024 Mr. Buthirith Chhann Chhuon Department of Project Portfolio Management Mr. Sofrawith Department of Project Portfolio Management WWF-Cambodia Mr. Eam Sam Un BRM Manager World Bank Mission Members Mr. Sadig Aliyev Task Team Leader, Infrastructure Program Leader, World Bank Mr. Veasna Bun Co-Task Team Leader, Senior Infrastructure Specialist, World Bank Mr. Bowen Wang Co-Task Team Leader, Transport Specialist, World Bank Mr. Lor Latharo Senior Procurement Specialist, World Bank Mr. Khiev Sophear Financial Management Analyst, World Bank Ms. Gulana Hajiyeva Senior Environmental Specialist, World Bank Mr. Tep Makathy Environmental Specialist, Consultant, World Bank Mr. Kimchhay Ly Social Development Consultant, World Bank Ms. Alexandra Spernol Senior Road Engineer, Consultant, World Bank Mr. Borith Long Infrastructure Specialist, Consultant, World Bank Mr. Has Rithy Sangharith Gender Expert Consultant, World Bank Ms. Socheat Ath Program Assistant, World Bank 10 Aid Memoire | RCIP 6th6th ISM, May 27- June 3, 2024 ANNEX 2: FIELD VISIT SUMMARY The World Bank team, jointly with the MPWT and MRD project teams, conducted a field visit on May 28-30, 2024, to review the progress status of the road works under RCIP. The Bank Team also reviewed the technical progress and environmental and social safeguards performance. The agreed actions or recommendations are listed. Day 1: May 28, 2024- Visit to MRD’s CW2 CW2 was awarded to M.T.A JV. The contract price is US$14.07 million. The contract signing was June 1, 2023, and commencement was June 13, 2023. The improvement works are 18 months and are due for completion by December 13, 2024. CW2 consists of 7 rural roads, totaling 75.3km. The work progress of each road is summarized in the Table below and in the photo log for reference. Road No. & Length No. Work Description KC1* KC2* KC3* KC12* KC24* KC39* KC57* Remark 6.0 km 16.4 km 17.1 km 13.5 km 5.6 km 8.2 km 8.5 km 1 Clearance mine & UXO 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% Completed 2 Clearing & Grubbing work 100% 100% 78% 100% 100% 100% 100% Completed 3 Embankment work 100% 100% 59% 82% 100% 28% 100% In progress 4 Subgrade work 100% 50% 19% 0% 100% 0% 100% In progress 5 Subbase work 100% 0% 0% 0% 100% 0% 100% In progress 6 Basecourse work 0% 0% 0% 0% 22% 0% 88% In progress 7 Bituminous Prime Coat 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 22% In progress 19mm 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 12% In progress 8 Bituminous Seal Coat 12mm 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 9 Pipe Culvert 100% 100% 50% 50% 100% 50% 100% incl. casting 10 Box Culvert 100% 100% 0% 14% 100% 0% 100% In progress 11 U Drain 50% 50% 0% 50% 50% 0% 74% incl. casting 12 V Ditch NA NA 0% 0% NA NA NA 13 Concrete Pavement 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 14 Ancillary work 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% Plan to complete 6-Oct-24 27-Nov-24 4-Dec-24 4-Dec-24 4-Oct-24 20-Oct-24 4-Sep-24 Note: * Visited roads and work progress by May 30, 2024 The Mission was reported progress by the M.T.A JV engineer and the supervision consultants. The civil work endured slow progress at the time of the visit—contrary to Supervision’s report of 54.32% progress vs. elapsed time of 61%. The contractor was reminded to accelerate the works and complete them on time, as the LD clause will be triggered right after the scheduled improvement works end by December 13, 2024. The advance payment to the M.T.A JV still has not been made. The Mission encouraged the M.T.A JV to secure the (commercial) bank security to process the advance payment from the project. Despite the contract being signed with a JV, the mission was concerned that only one member of the JV was working on-site, resulting in insufficient mobilization considering the scope of work. There is an important gap between financial and physical progress, resulting from the fact that work is ongoing in many sections, but without completion, ‘outputs’ are required under OPBRC. The Mission advised focusing on installing drainage and structure rather than pre-casting concrete pipes and quickly completing the DBST surface layer of the road so that the contractor can request IPC payment when the drainage structure and road work are installed. The Mission advised the Contractor to properly install road safety devices (traffic signs, working zone demarcation, lighting, and reflectors) and safely manage traffic during and after the construction, both daytime and nighttime. The supervision consultant is requested to carefully check and advise the Contractors to follow their CESMP for safety reasons. 11 Aid Memoire | RCIP 6th6th ISM, May 27- June 3, 2024 Quality issues were noticed on-site, as illustrated below, such as the shape of the DBST chippings and insufficient traffic management. Key findings by each road are summarized below: • Borrow pit (Located near PK.70 of NR6): The mission requested that the Contractor submit the borrow pit operation plan/statement plan. • CW2-KC1: The mission visited Box culvert No.2 at PK 2+260, where safety measures such as guard rails, guideposts, and other safety devices should be installed for safety reasons. The Mission requested the ISWS and Contractor conduct a road safety audit for every built structure and share the result with the PMU and Bank team for review. The existing subbase is partially slippery and likely to deteriorate during the rainy season. The contractor is advised that opening too many sections of the embankment and subbase at this moment in time is risky and may result in additional correction works at his cost after the rainy season. As much as possible, the base course and DBST shall cover the completed subbase before the rainy season. Concrete works shall continue and are recommended to be intensified during the rainy season. • CW2-KC2: The site camp is located near this section and was inspected. Earthworks are complete, and the subgrade is partially implemented. The contractor was recommended to work on the sub-base on the section where the subgrade is currently completed to protect the works during the rainy season. • CW2-KC24: The base course was placed several kilometers but only spread, not planed and compacted. Leaving the base course uncompacted for a long time is a safety hazard for the traveling public and also risks early deterioration, segregation, and lower quality after completion. The mission recommended compacting and finishing the base course once sections of about 1km are spread. • CW2-KC3: The last 3 km consists of existing concrete pavement with insufficient width and poor condition. This existing section is proposed to be removed and replaced with a full-width DBST. However, the mission suggested doing this work after the rainy season, as the residents would travel more conveniently and safely on the existing concrete. • CW2-KC39: Shrinkage cracks on the subbase were visible in this section. Using quite plastic material results in clay and slippery conditions in case of rain. It is recommended that this section be reworked before acceptance. The progress is reported as 40%, but this was difficult to believe, with the progress on site. • CW2-KC57: This section is the most advanced, and prime/tack coat and chipping works were ongoing. The shape of the chippings was found to be non-compliant with unusual elongation. The consultant’s materials engineer and the contractor should also seek to improve production at the quarry. • CW2-KC12: This section includes an existing concrete section with a steep slope. The existing concrete is in poor condition, and slope correction is recommended. The Consultant and contractor were requested to improve the slope correction to try to reduce the slope further and calculate the quantities and costs for a possible change in scope to be proposed to the WB as additional scope requested by the Employer. KC1- borrow pit serving for the western part of the KC-1 parapets on culverts are typically too short, contract roads creating black spots and to be extended or prolonged by guardrail 12 Aid Memoire | RCIP 6th6th ISM, May 27- June 3, 2024 Stock of pre-casted U-ditch with partial quality issues, Laboratory on KC-2, in good working condition to be checked before use KC-24: base course spread but not compacted over KC-24: basecourse placing several km. Recommended to compact after spreading 1-2 km KC-57 Spraying of prime coat KC-57 – Shape of chippings inappropriate KC 3: existing concrete pavement in poor condition KC-39: Shrinkage cracks on top of (not completed?) placed by commune funds to be removed sub-grade to be reworked 13 Aid Memoire | RCIP 6th6th ISM, May 27- June 3, 2024 KC 12 – Flood section with steep slope proposed for KC 12 – current concrete pavement in poor condition additional works to improve gradient Day 2: May 29, 2024- Visit to MRD’s CW3 The CW3 was awarded to USS (UNG Sim Sear). The contract price is US$11.63 million. The contract signing date is October 18, 2023. The commencement date was November 23, 2023. The improvement works are 18 months and to be completed on May 23, 2025. The CW3 consists of 6 rural roads with a total length of 67.6km. Among six (6) roads of the CW3, the task team visited only three (3) roads, namely, TBK-13, TBK-18, and TBK-27. The work progress of each road is summarized in the Table below and in the photo log for reference. Road No. & Length No. Work Description TBK13 * TBK14 TBK17 TBK18 * TBK21A TBK21B TBK27 * Remark 11.2Km 5.7Km 5.1Km 12.3Km 7.4Km 5.3Km 20.7Km 1 Clearance mine & UXO 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% Completed 2 Clearing & Grubbing work 100% 0% 0% 100% 0% 0% 0% In progress 3 Embankment work 100% 0% 0% 64% 0% 0% 0% In progress 4 Subgrade work 91% 0% 0% 46% 0% 0% 0% In progress 5 Subbase work 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 6 Basecourse work 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 7 Bituminous Prime Coat 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 19mm 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 8 Bituminous Seal Coat 12mm 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 9 Pipe Culvert 87% 0% 0% 71% 0% 0% 0% incl. casting 10 Box Culvert 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 11 U Drain 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 12 V Ditch 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 13 Concrete Pavement 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 14 Ancillary work 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% Plan to complete 31-Jan-25 15-Feb-25 28-Feb-25 31-Jan-25 30-Apr-25 30-Apr-25 30-Mar-25 Note: * Visited roads and work progress by May 30, 2024 As reported by the supervision consultant, the progress is recorded as 9.14% vs. 33.33% of the elapsed time (the contract time for improvement work is 18 months; 6 months elapsed from the commencement date by the visiting time). The task team reminded the Contractor to accelerate and complete the work on time, as the LD clause will be triggered right after the scheduled improvement works end by May 23, 2025. The contractor has mobilized and progressed only on 2 sections; overall progress remains slow, although it is early to judge the contractor's capacity to complete the work on time. The Mission Team visited one borrow pit from which the Contractor purchase materials for the subbase course. However, the soil quality is not strong enough for the subbase course but subgrade. Therefore, the Contractor needs to find a new borrow pit/materials (located 10km from TBK13) for the subbase course construction. The laboratory was set up on MRD premises; since the last mission, the contractor has replaced the MRD equipment with their purchased equipment. Overall, the laboratory is functioning satisfactorily but may need to be scaled up to follow the 14 Aid Memoire | RCIP 6th6th ISM, May 27- June 3, 2024 work pace in the dry season. The arrangement made by the contractor using MRD facilities is not recommended, as it does not meet the objective of developing the contractor’s capacity. The contractor has started pipe culvert works but only completed about 10% of the total quantity. The mission advised the contractor to speed up pipe culvert works during the rainy season to prepare for smooth implementation of the road works thereafter. The key findings by each road are summarized below: • CW3-TBK27: due to government works, 4.7 km at the start of the section has to be excluded from the works. A replacement section is proposed at the end of the section, with 2 options. The “yellow” section with the Bailey bridge should be studied for hydrology to determine the appropriate technical solution. Due to the load limitation of the existing Bailey bridge that is proposed to be kept, it is proposed not to widen to 8m but to 6m and to put in place a gantry to avoid crossing heavy trucks. Consultations with the villagers should be held, additional environmental and social screening is required, and the section should be divided into 3 sub-sections and cost separately to provide all background data for a final decision to be taken in Sept- Oct: the common section, the end of the “blue” option and the end of the “yellow option” with the bridge. • CW3-TBK13: Earthworks and Sub-grade works are ongoing. Currently, 9.2 km from the 11.2 km of the section are already placed, and the performance tests partially fail in terms of CBR. The contractor explained this by the heterogeneity of material in the borrow pit. The suggested solution is to improve the current material by adding selected better quality and remixing on-site. For additional embankment and subgrade works, the material selection at the borrow pit must be carefully monitored because of the heterogeneity and lack of quality materials. Materials for the Subbase will need to be found at a longer distance from TBK13. Section paved by Government funds under TBK-27 Borrow pit with heterogeneous material Inadequate traffic management Proper fencing of hazardous goods in the camp 15 Aid Memoire | RCIP 6th6th ISM, May 27- June 3, 2024 Laboratory installed in MRD premises Concrete samples from Pipe culvert work Day 2: May 29, 2024- Visit to MPWT’s CW2 CW2 is awarded to Nimmeng – Proco Joint Venture. Contract signing March 30, 2023. Commencement date July 1, 2023. The improvement work time is 18 months and will be completed on December 31, 2024. The contract price is US$ 13.98 million. CW2 road length is 48.8km – NR73. The work is delayed, with only 18.6% progress after 12 months, whereas it is required to be finished in December 2024, i.e., in 6 months, including the rainy season. The contractor completed the first milestone up to completed asphalt layers, and the quality of the finished asphalt was found acceptable, although with some segregation that could be linked to the fact that the works were very recent. No serious quality issues were noted in the ongoing works. The laboratory was set up and is functioning but requires improvement regarding storage, tracking of samples, and general organization. Traffic Management on site needs to be strengthened throughout, delineation with retention and night-time visibility at construction zones. Use of reflective tape, eventual flashlights and use of barrels instead of sticks can be recommended. Considering the slow progress, the mission expressed doubts on the capacity of the contractor and proposed the following targets: Completion of additional 10km with asphalt pavement by end of June, and completion of 5 km for the months of July and August, respectively. A request for additional drainage works was submitted by MPWT to the WB for No-Objection. At the end of June, the performance will be reassessed, that would trigger the approval of additional works. NR73 – newly completed asphalt on first milestone Ongoing asphalt works on second milestone Asphalt plant functioning, but lack of emissions filter Control module of asphalt plant showing correct mixing 16 Aid Memoire | RCIP 6th6th ISM, May 27- June 3, 2024 Temporary shelters to be removed and replaced with Storage of emulsions without proper retention decent facilities Unorderly and badly organized laboratory AC temperature check Day 3: May 30, 2024- Visit to MPWT’s CW3 & CW1 The CW3 is awarded to the Branch of Poly Changda Engineering Co. Ltd. The Contract was signed on March 1, 2023, and commencement was June 15, 2023. The improvement work will take 18 months and be completed on December 14, 2024. The contract price is US$25.71 million. The CW3 road length is 35km—PR377 and 13.59km—PR377A. The mission was informed that the contractor has carried out UXO demining works, which were not considered in the initial scope of works. The clearing was completed, with 7 UXO secured, and this work is considered additional and not part of the lump sum payments. The contractor is in the process of surveying and carrying out soil investigations for detailed designs. Changes in road pavement designs and structural designs for some bridges have been proposed by the contractor. The mission reiterated that any proposed design changes should be supported by adequate technical documents, including design parameters and detailed calculations, and the design should include hydraulic designs considering climate resilience. Furthermore, design changes technically acceptable to the Employer will not give way to additional payments unless outside the scope of work or an additional request from the Employer. The section has several technical challenges: i) limited working space, with a current carriageway from 4.5m to 6 m. Alternate traffic management by directions, using flagmen cannot be avoided, and the contractor was urged to submit the traffic management plan, including specific locations. ii) The limited space also affects the site clearance, and the detailed design should take particular care at minimizing the corridor of impact and avoiding land take. Small land take (porches, fences, canopies) shall be subject to documented voluntary land donations. The mission also reminded that routine maintenance should be carried out immediately after the start date to maintain suitable traffic conditions prior to improvement works. All required documents have to be submitted by the contractor as soon as possible, with priority given to the traffic management plan, method statement for routine maintenance, C-ESMP, work program, and Quality Assurance Manual. It was also recommended that detailed designs should be submitted section by section, starting with PR377A, which is less sensitive, and some structures so that work can immediately start even during this rainy season. The contractor shall also establish a Self-Control Unit as soon as possible. 17 Aid Memoire | RCIP 6th6th ISM, May 27- June 3, 2024 Base course works on PR377 Traffic Management and Protection at location of riverbank protection works Monitoring of Environmental parameters at dolphin pool Bridge No 4 near dolphin site with first span beams launched and water channel reinstalled. Reinforcement installation before slab casting at Bridge Detour road for Bridge No5 construction (to be No5 demolished before rainy season) Absence of traffic management and slippery conditions at PR377a – sub-grade prepared and absence of other the end of PR377 construction work (due to ongoing works traffic) The CW1 is awarded to the Branch of Poly Changda Engineering Co. Ltd. The Contract was signed on July 31, 2023, and commencement was November 1, 2023. The improvement work will take 18 months and be completed on April 30, 2025. The contract price is US$12.68 million. The CW1 road length is 31.25km. This contract is progressing ahead of schedule with 79 percent completion at the date of the field mission. The mission noted the overall good performance of the contractor. 18 Aid Memoire | RCIP 6th6th ISM, May 27- June 3, 2024 Regarding the asphalt works, it was noted that the contractor used a rich mix design with a very high asphalt content (5.2%), and in selected spots, initial marks of bleeding were observed. Such high asphalt content is usually not recommended with soft bitumen in hot climates, as it leads to risks regarding bleeding and rutting. For the time being, the situation should be observed. It was also noted that the base course prepared under the upcoming concrete slab works was very heterogeneous, with strongly varying water content. Its quality and performance need to be checked carefully before placing the slabs, as base course quality is essential to guarantee the concrete's service life. Selected lined drains need to be replaced to ensure the slabs and the drains' covers are aligned. Asphalt works on NR7 Tack coat before asphalt laying on NR7 Delimitation of the concrete slab in the very busy Traffic management for the construction of market area concrete slab Base course preparation under concrete slab with Lined drains partially at too high level variable water content and compaction Environmental and Social Review The ESO staff and focal points for MPWT and MRD, as well as environmental, social, OHS, and gender experts within the supervision teams on both components are in place. The Bank team was informed that training to Contractors on E&S management, occupational health and safety (OHS), and prevention of sexual harassment and sexual exploitation and abuse (SH/SEA) is maintained regularly and for all newly contracted workers. The consultations with PAH continue systemically, as per the project SEP. The Contractors’ ESMPs (C-ESMPs) provide further details to the actions for mitigation 19 Aid Memoire | RCIP 6th6th ISM, May 27- June 3, 2024 and monitoring of potential environmental and social risks. The Bank team has discussed with the PMUs, ISWSC, and Contractors the established practice of environmental and social risk management, visited the project sites, and reviewed environmental and social aspects of ongoing works during field visits. For both Components 1 and 2, Contractors should clearly establish working, approach, and/or buffer zones and install necessary traffic and reflective signages during the day and nighttime to prevent traffic accidents, particularly at detours. The supervision consultants shall check and confirm if all signages are in place, and where needed, flagmen are deployed to facilitate traffic. Key mission findings include the following: • The mission was pleased that MPWT and MRD have made notable progress and taken actions to address shortcomings identified during the previous mission, including progress on enhancing the functionality of the GRM. Component 1 under MPWT has significantly improved safeguards aspects, including access pathways to residential properties, occupational and community health and safety, and road safety management. However, the mission recommends that MPWT continue to maintain compliance with safeguards, engage with affected people on a regular basis, and consider accelerating construction activities at affected shops where technically feasible. • For component 2 under MRD, while some improvements have been made, the mission identified areas requiring further attention to ensure compliance with key safeguards measures. The most critical area of concern is road safety management across all packages. Additionally, there appears to be unclear information regarding the status of consultations on KC-39, where rice fields are located. This needs to be verified and clarified; If the consultations have not been conducted satisfactorily or if the affected communities have not provided their agreement, it is important to initiate or reinitiate the consultation process and secure their consent as soon as possible. • The mission acknowledges that construction falls within the designated right-of-way. However, it recommends that MRD follow up on the consultation process for the last stretch of KC-39, secure documented agreements from affected people before construction commences, and ensure regular and effective consultations are conducted with people along TBK-27, which traverses villages, shop centers, and rice fields, before and during construction. • The mission requests that the Contractors ensure timely payment of wages and salaries to all workers. Component 1: The mission was pleased to witness the excellent engagement of MPWT with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) in monitoring the behavior and population of the Irrawaddy dolphins in the vicinity of the project sites on PR377/PR377A road (CW3), including the reconstruction of Bridge #4. Since December 2023, the MPWT has undertaken five monitoring visits, two of which jointly with WWF and the local Fishery Administration (FA), and, with additional research and observations, determined the noise and vibration levels on the surface and underwater, which do not cause impacts to the welfare and behavior of the dolphins. Measuring equipment has been installed on the river coast in the vicinity of the dolphins’ habitat area (Kratie pool in the Mekong River) to closely control the noise, vibration, and air quality parameters and ensure these are within the admissible limits. The latest monitoring showed an increase in the dolphin population. All works that could cause noise and vibration are completed on Bridge #4 by now. The mission advised the supervision consultant and Contractor and maintain good practices, especially where works continue the slope stabilization and riverbank protection, including all measures to prevent littering of the banks and water of the river and incoming stream from any waste (construction, domestic, accidental fuel leaks) as well as measures to suppress dust and demarcate and fence the construction sites. MPWT has significantly improved the management of the construction camp site at CW3. This includes the provision of a barrier and fuel leak trap to the fuel storage area, prevention of pollution of the nearby open pond and rice fields; establishment of proper waste management practices; arranging of electric cables in a way that prevents any contact with water and accidental contact by workers; improved sanitary, hygienic and health safety standards of workers’ dormitories and facilities, including kitchen and lavatories. The mission highlighted the importance of maintaining the same sanitary and hygienic standards at each campsite, with a particular focus on clearly distinguishing the residential and working areas and always ensuring safety while workers are on the camp. Community health and safety at the construction sites should be controlled to avoid the cases of people not using temporary detour pathways and entering the demarcated construction sites. 20 Aid Memoire | RCIP 6th6th ISM, May 27- June 3, 2024 Component 2: MRD clarified the ownership and legal status of the three borrow pits and obtained relevant permissions. The borrow pits are now properly arranged, fenced, and demarcated, preventing unauthorized entrances. The MRD Contractors and supervision consultants shall urgently prepare and share with the Bank the Borrow Pit Management Plans (BPMPs) which specify the method statements for carrying out excavation and material storage at the borrow pit, safe transportation of the materials, dust suppression measures, minimal distance from the nearest settlement, and volumes to be sustainably extracted from the borrow pit. The supervision consultants and Contractor should also prepare and agree with the PMU and the Bank on the Borrow Pit Reinstatement Plan, to be implemented once the borrow pit is no longer in use for the purposes of the project. Regarding the need for vegetation clearing, the Bank strongly recommends replanting or compensatory planting as a measure envisaged by the ESMP to mitigate the impacts on biodiversity and preserve the ecological and biological value of the vegetation in or in the vicinity of the project site. The Bank was also informed that at CW3-TBK27, a 4.7km section initially envisaged under the project scope has already been reconstructed by the Government. Thus, MRD suggests an alternative road section to be supported under the project. The Bank advised MRD that environmental and social due diligence shall be undertaken for this alternative road segment. As a result of the due diligence, either the existing relevant ESMP and C-ESMP shall be updated to incorporate site-specific mitigation measures, or an addendum ESMP and C-ESMP shall be developed for this alternative segment. For both options, the documents shall be completed, redisclosed and consulted before the contract is amended and works start. 21 Aid Memoire | RCIP 6th6th ISM, May 27- June 3, 2024 ANNEX 3: FM Review and Recommendation Budget execution. The budget performance in the first five months of 2024 remained modest. MPWT spent $4.57 million, and MRD spent $3.53 million. The mission recommended MPWT and MRD to (i) increase project spending against the approved AWPB of 2024, given the current spending is still minimal, and (ii) expedite the project implementation through close monitoring of the budget lines by each implementing entity. The MPWT, MRD, and the Bank team discussed how to improve the FY2025 disbursement projection for three contracts (CW-2-MPWT and “CW-2 & CW-3” of MRD) and to ensure that the contractors submitted their scheduled IPC claims for payments per terms of the contracts. One of the issues discussed was that MRD’s actual disbursement for the contractors covering Quarter 3, 2023, to Quarter 1 2024, was significantly behind schedule. This was due to the contractor’s discretion that it did not claim a contract advance. Instead, two IPC payments were paid (US$1.46 million) under the contract (MRD-RCIP-ICB-CW2). The Bank noted that the disbursement projection in FY 2024 of MPWT and MRD was still behind the targets due to certain contractors not submitting IPCs to the project for payments. It was agreed that the project would work with ISWS consulting firms to develop a concrete IPC disbursement schedule in 2025 and submit it to the Bank by August 30, 2024. FM Early Actions for RCIP’s Additional Financing (IDA 75180). The MPWT, MRD, and the Bank team discussed and agreed to implement early startup FM actions for additional financing (AF). Given that the Financing Agreement of AF was countersigned on May 02, 2024, MPWT and MRD will commence the key early FM actions, including (i) Liaise with MEF to submit the revised authorized specimen letter (ASL) per the DFIL and submit to the Bank, (ii) update specimen signatures for DAs at the Central Bank of Cambodia (NBC) to include additional financing to the parent project (IDA 67670), (iii) request an additional advance (US$0.5 million) from IDA 75180 to the pooled DA account of MPWT and MRD respectively, (iv) update chart of accounts to include additional financing and to update the project-specific financial manuals and the project operation manual. It was agreed that the FM clinic would be organized jointly with the Bank to explain the financial arrangements under the pooled Bank accounts in September 2024. Internal audit. The mission was informed that the fieldwork is being carried out by the internal auditors of MPWT and MRD for the 2023 project audit, respectively. The audit reports will be sent to the project directors and made available to the Bank by November 2024. Early FM actions for Additional Financing (agreed tasks) 22 Aid Memoire | RCIP 6th6th ISM, May 27- June 3, 2024 ANNEX 4: RESULTS FRAMEWORK Project Development Objective Indicators 2023 2024 Baseline (Y1) (Y2) No Indicator Name Target Remarks (31 Dec 2020) Target Actual Actual (31 May (31 May 2029 (Previous) 2029) (May) Economic and human development facilities in the project area are made accessible for all seasons Facilities with improved climate-resilient road 1 82.00 82.00 0.00 82.00 4.00 access (Number) - MPWT: NR7- 1 markets. Other road works are ongoing. - Markets (Number) 22.00 29.00 0.00 29.00 1.00 - MRD: No road completed; works are progressing. - MPWT-CW1: NR7-1 hospital. Other road works are ongoing. - Hospital (Number) 20.00 8.00 0.00 8.00 1.00 - MRD: No road completed; works are progressing. - MPWT-CW1: NR7-2 schools. Other road works are ongoing. - Schools (Number) 50.00 45.00 0.00 45.00 2.00 - MRD: No road completed; works are progressing. Travel time reduction along project-financed national and provincial roads - NR7 = 40mins This indicator will be measured and reported upon completion Travel time reduction along project-financed - NR73 = 60mins 2 10.00 0.00 10.00 0.00 of road works. national roads (Percentage) - PR377 = 70mins - PR377A = 35mins This indicator will be measured and reported upon completion Travel time reduction along project-financed 3 20.00 0.00 20.00 0.00 of road works. provincial roads (Percentage) People from the project area spend less time to reach the economic and human development facilities Number of people that benefit from This indicator will be measured and reported upon completion 4 improved access to sustainable transport 0.00 600.00 0.00 600.00 0.00 of road works. infrastructure and service (Thousand)) Project-financed assets have a sustained resilience with service levels maintained under OPBRC Project-financed assets (road and bridges) This indicator will be measured and reported upon completion 5 have a sustained resilience with service level 0.00 100.00 0.00 100.00 0.00 of road works. maintained under the OPBRC (Percentage) Intermediate Result Indicators Component 1: National and Provincial Roads Improvement Total Length= 130.37Km of which: National and provincial roads improved with 6 0.00 130.00 0.00 130.00 35.00 • PR377=35.5Km (PK0+500-PK36+000), under sub-based climate resilience measures (kimlometer) cement stabilization 23 Aid Memoire | RCIP 6th6th ISM, May 27- June 3, 2024 • PR377A=13.67Km (PK0+000-PK13+670), SB was 100% completed • NR73= 49.85Km (PK0+000-PK49+850), completed AC: 10 Km • NR7=31.35Km (PK300+000-PK331+350), 25 km was AC completed NR7=0 bridge, Bridges repaired/upgraded with climate NR73 = 0 bridges, and 7 0.00 9.00 0.00 9.00 3.00 resilient measures (Number) PR377&377A = 9 bridges, which Bridge 3, Bridge 6, and Bridge 9 have been substantially completed Female employees with paid jobs under The average for CW1, CW2 & CW3 contracts from September 8 OPBRC for national and provincial roads 0.00 15.00 13.00 15.00 16.22 2023 to May 2024. (Percentage) Number of people with enhanced access to This indicator will be measured and reported upon completion 9 0.00 190.00 0.00 190.00 0.00 transportation services Number (Thousand) of road works. Target national and provincial roads built 35 km was AC completed overall for the 3 contracts, i.e., NR7, 10 0.00 130.00 0.00 130.00 35.00 with road safety measures (kilometers) PR377&377A & NR73. The MPWT ‘Road Safety Auditor’ has audited 100% of the Horizontal and Vertical Alignment (129.9km). As for the Auxiliary Works (Road Signs/Road markings/Speed Road design audited for safety measures 11 0.00 130.00 10.00 130.00 100.00 limits-Rumble Strips/ has already been audited by RCIP-Road (kilometers) Safety Auditor for the total length of NR7, PR377&377A and a length of 30km for NR73 out of 50km; i.e., 110km has already been audited/recommended by the RCIP(Road Safety Auditor) Component 2: Rural Roads Improvement - None of the roads were completed. - For CW2 and CW3 (Subgrade, subbase, base course and DBST Rural roads upgraded with climate resilience in progress) 12 0.00 276.00 0.00 276.00 0.00 measures (kilometers) - Next mission it is expected to be completed 36.5km for CW2 (KC1, KC2, KC24 and KC57) and 23.9km for CW3 (TBK13 and TBK18) Targeted rural roads built with road safety The result on this indicator is expected to be updated next 13 0.00 276.00 0.00 276.00 0.00 measure (kilometers) mission/May 2024 and onwards. Sweroad is now reviewing information provided by KCI- Design Road design audited for safety measures 0.00 276.00 0.00 276.00 0.00 & Construction drawing. Detailed site inspections of all project (kilometers) road will be prepared. In average of CW2 and CW3 - record data from Jun 2023 to Female employees with paid jobs under May 2024 and Nov 2023 to May 2024. 14 0.00 15.00 0.00 15.00 23.53 OPBRC for rural roads (Percentage) 24 Aid Memoire | RCIP 6th6th ISM, May 27- June 3, 2024 Component 3: Institutional Development and Project Management Final Inception Report submitted on 21 March 2024 by Rural Roads Accessibility and Financing Sheladia and officially approved on 23 April 2024. 15 No Yes No Yes No Strategy developed (Yes/No) Development of resilient rural road financing strategy is ongoing. Contract (Sweroad) awarded. The Department of Road Traffic Georeferenced data registered in the Safety will meet and work with a consultant to upgrade the 16 No Yes No Yes No upgraded road crash database (Yes/No) database. Result of on this indicator will be updated after completion of the TA. MPWT- CDOH-Consultant prepared the Inception Report. The training will be conducted, and the results will be available in Community members trained through road the next mission. 17 0.00 500.00 0.00 500.00 0.00 safety awareness campaigns (Number) MRD-Road Safety Awareness Campaigns Implementation Plan had been prepared by Sweroad consultant. (2nd Year-200, 3rd year-400 and 4th year-600) Share of men out of total community 0.00 70.00 0.00 70.00 0.00 Training is not yet started. members trained (Percentage) 15 MPWT’s management/staffs (7 females) were received training on OPBRC on 04th January 2024 at Sihanoukville MRD and MPWT staff trained on OPBRC, 18 0.00 30.00 68.00 30 78.00 Province. disagrgregated by gender (Number) 63 MRD’s officials (18 female officials) were trained on OPBRC at SHV. Disagregated by gender (number of female 0.00 20.00 20.00 20.00 25.00 7 females of MPWT and 18 females of MRD. staff trained) (Number) Contractors' work force trained on ESHS, 19 OHS and GBV/VAC Code of Conduct 0.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 All staff and workers are trained. (Percentage) Grievances registered and addressed in a 20 0.00 80.00 90.00 80.00 100.00 100% addressed promptly timely manner (Percentage) Documents is under preparation and the survey will be Beneficiaries expressing satisfaction with conducted along NR7 and PR377&377A where the road was 21 improved road condition and accessibility to 0.00 70.00 0.00 70.00 0.00 completely rehabilitated (3km offset from roads alignment), facilities (Percentage) and the results will be submitted in the next mission. 25