E845 VOL.5 The Republic of Zambia Ministry of Works and Supply ROADS DEPARTMENT Techno-Economic Studies & Detailed Engineering Designs of Design Package 1 for Lusaka - Chirundu Border (T2) ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT September 2003 WSP International Management Consulting j WsP in association with Kiran & Musonda Associates Ltd NI Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road TABLE OF CONTENTS ABBREVIATIONS AND TERMINOLOGY ................................. VII EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ................................. VIII 1. INTRODUCTION. 1 1.1. PROJECT BACKGROUND . 1.2. THE PROCESS OF ROAD REHABILITATION. 1 1.2.1. Preparatory Works. 1 1.2.2. Tendering Process. 1 1.2.3. Organizing Implementation of a Project. 2 1.2.4. Approval and Awarding of Contracts. 2 1.2.5. Supervision of Physical Work. 2 1.3. OBJECTIVES OF THE EIA .......................................................... 2 1.4. SCOPE OF THE EIA .......................................................... 2 1.5. STUDY APPROACH AND METHODOLOGY .......................................................... 3 1.6. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT TEAM ..................................... ..................... 4 2. POLICY, LEGAL AND INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK ......................................... 5 2.1. ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY FRAMEWORK .......................................................... 5 2.1.1. National Conservation Strategy ............................................................................ 5 2.2. ENVIRONMENTAL LEGISLATIVE FRAMEWORK ........................................................................5 2.2.1. Environmental Protection and Pollution Control Act, Chapter 204 ................................. 5 2.2.2. EIA Legislative Requirements ............................................................................ 5 2.3. ROAD SECTOR POLICY AND MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK .......................................... . 6 2.4. OTHER ACTS REVIEWED RELEVANT TO THE ROAD REHABILITATION PROJECT .................. . 7 2.4.1. National Parks and Wildlife Act, Chapter 201. 7 2.4.2. Town and Country Planning Act, Chapter 283. 7 2.4.3. Forest Act, Chapter 199. 7 2.4.4. Water Act, Chapter 198. 8 2.4.5. National Heritage Conservation Commission Act. 8 2.4.6. The Land Act of 1995. 9 2.4.7. The Lands Acquisition Act No. 2 of 1970. 9 2.4.8. Mines and Minerals Act, Chapter 32. 9 2.4.9. Roads and Traffic Control Act, Chapter 464 .10 2.4.10. Local Government Act, Chapter 281 .10 2.4.11. Public Health Act, Chapter 295 .10 2.4.12. Factories Act, Chapter 441 .10 2.4.13. Petroleum Act, Chapter 439 .11 2.4.14. Energy Regulation Act, Chapter 436 .11 2.5. INTERNATIONAL AND REGIONAL CONVENTIONS .................................................1..............1.... 1 3. PROJECT DESCRIPTION ........ 12 3.1. PROJECT LOCATION ........... 12 3.2. PROJECT ACTIVITIES ..... 12 3.2.1. Phases in Road Rehabilitation .......... 12 3.2.2. Sources of Road Rehabilitation Materials .......... 14 3.3. ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVE APPROACHES .......... 15 3.3.1. No-Action Alternative .......... 15 3.3.2. Reconstruction Alternative .......... 16 3.3.3. Rehabilitation Alternative .......... 16 4. PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT OF ROAD SITE & ITS SURROUNDINGS ........ 17 4.1. TOPOGRAPHY .......... 17 4.2. SOILS AND GEOLOGY .......... 17 4.3. CLIMATE .......... 17 4.4. HYDROLOGY AND DRAINAGE .......... 17 4.5. W A TER Q U A L ITY ...................................................................................................... 18 I 1~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road 4 .6 . A IR Q U A L ITY ............................................................. ...... ... .... ..... ......... 1 8 4.7. W ETLAND AND D AM BOS ............................................................................... 1 8 5. BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT ................................................................ 20 5.1. FLORA AND FAUNA ................................................................................... 20 5.1.1. Classification of Vegetation ......................................................................... 20 5.1.2. Flora and Fauna along Lusaka-Chirundu Road .......................................................... 22 6. SOCIO-ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT .......................................................... 23 6.1. DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILE .............................................................. . ............... 23 6.1.1I. Lusaka ......................................................................................... 23 6.1.2. Chilanga ........................................................................................ 23 6.1.3. Kafue .......................................................................................... 23 6 .1.4 . C h iru n du ......................................................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 24 6.2. ECONOMIC PROFILE ALONG LUSAKA-CHIRUNDU ROAD ............................24 6.3. L A N D -U SE ......................................................... ......24 6.4. SETTLEM EN TS .................................................... ........24 7. CULTURAL ENVIRONMENT .............................................26 7.1. CULTURAL R E SO U R C ES..................................................... 26 7.1.1. Archaeological, Cultural and Historical Sites .................................26 8. PUBLIC MEETINGS/ CONSULTATIONS ....................................2 8.1. APPROACH AND M ETHODOLOGY ..............................................28 8.2. KEY PRESENTATIONS, QUESTIONS AND CONCERNS FROM THE COMMUNITY CONSULTATIVE M EETIN G S .. .... .... ...... ........... ... .......... .... .... ..... ...... ....2 8 8.3. COM MUNITY CONCERNS ......................................... ...........28 9. POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS ................................31 9.1. IMPACTS ON LAND AND SOIL .................................................31 9.1.1. C onstruction Phase ......................................... ............3 1 9.1.2. Operational Pha e............a.......................................... 3 1 9.2. IM PACTS ON V EGETATION ...................................... .............3 1 9.2.1. C onstruction Phase ......................................... ............3 1 9.2.2. Operational Pha e....................................................... 32 9.3. IMPACTS ON WILDLIFE AND WILDLIFE H A BITATS................................. 32 9.3.1. Construction Phase ......................................................3 9.3.2. O perational Phase .......................................... ............32 9.4. IMPACTS ON W ATER QUALITY ................................................32 9.4.1. Construction Phase ......................................................3 9.4.2. O perational Phase .......................................... ............33 9.5. IMPACTS ON A IR QUALITY ...................................................33 9.5.1. Construction Phase ......................................................3 9.5.2. O perational Phase .......................................... ............33 9.6. IM PACTS OF N O ISE .........................................................34 9.6.1. Construction Phase ......................................................3 9.6.2. O perational Phase .......................................... ............34 9.7. IMPACTS ON LANDSCAPE AND AESTHETICS ......................................34 9.7.1. C onstruction Phase ......................................................3 9.7.2. O perational Phase .......................................... ............34 9.8. IMPACTS ON LAND-USE AND SURROUNDING ENVIRONMENT .........................34 9.8.1. Construction Phase ......................................................3 9.8.2. O perational Phase .......................................... ............35 9.9. IMPACTS ON SOCIO-ECONOMIC E NVIO M NT...................................... 35 9.9.1. C onstruction Phase ......................................................3 9.9.2. O perational Phase .......................................... ............35 9.10. IMPACTS ON CULTURAL AND HISTORIC SITES ....................................36 9.10.1. Construction Phase ....................................................3 9.10.2. O perational Phase ....................................................36 9.11. ..............IMPACTS ON HUMAN SETTLEMENTS ............................................36 Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road 9.11.1. Construction Phase .............................................. 36 9.11.2. Operational Phase .............................................. 36 9.12. IMPACTS OF QUARRIES AND BORROW PITS .................................... 36 9.12.1. Construction Phase .............................................. 36 9.12.2. Operational Phase .............................................. 37 9.13. IMPACTS OF ROAD TRAFFIC .................................... 37 9.13.1. Construction Phase .............................................. 37 9.13.2. Operational Phase .............................................. 37 9.14. IMPACTS OF WORK ACCIDENTS .............................................. 37 9.14.1. Construction Phase .............................................. 37 9.14.2. Operational Phase .............................................. 38 9.15. IMPACTS OF CONSTRUCTION CAMPS .............................................. 38 9.15.1. Construction Phase .............................................. 38 9.15.2. Operational Phase .............................................. 38 10. EVALUATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS ............................... .......... 39 10.1. NATURE OF IMPACT .................................................... 39 10.2. DIRECT IMPACT .................................................... 39 10.3. INDIRECT IMPACT .................................................... 39 10.4. SPATIAL EXTENT .................................................... 39 10.5. DURATION .................................................... 39 10.6. INTENSITY .................................................... 40 10.7. PROBABILITY .................................................... 41 10.8. DETERMINATION OF SIGNIFICANCE .................................................... 41 11. MITIGATION MEASURES ......................................... 49 11.1. PROPOSED MEASURES TO ADDRESS CONCERNS FROM THE COMMUNITIES ALONG THE LUSAKA-CHIRUNDU ROAD .............................................. 56 11.1.1. Road Site & its Surroundings .56 11.1.2. Quarries & Borrow Pits .56 11.1.3. Siting of Construction Camps .56 11.1.4. Abstraction of Water from Local Sources .56 11.1.5. Drainage Design/Culverts .56 11.1.6. Road Accidents & Black-Spots .56 11.1.7. Project Benefits to the Local Community .56 11.1.8. Detour, By-pass, Lay-bys and Access Roads .56 11.1.9. District/Community Role in the Project 57 12. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT AND MONITORING PLAN (EMP). 58 12.1. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 58 12.1.1. Surface Water Management 59 12.1.2. Erosion Control and Sediment Retention .59 12.1.3. Vegetation and Flora .59 12.1.4. Fauna .59 12.1.5. Construction Waste .60 12.1.6. Noise .60 12.1.7. Management of Air Quality .60 12.1.8. Rehabilitation .60 12.1.9. Community Consultation and Interaction .60 12.1.10. Workforce Awareness .60 12.1.11. Quarries and Borrow Pits Rehabilitation Plan .61 12.1.12. Road Traffic .61 12.2. IMPACT MITIGATION PLAN ........................................ 62 12.3. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PLAN ....................................... 94 12.4. MONITORING ACTIVITIES AND INDICATORS ....................................... 96 12.5. REPORTING PROCEDURE ....................................... 108 13. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS ....................................... 109 13.1. CONCLUSIONS ....................................... 109 13.2. RECOMMENDATIONS .109 I~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ . . Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road LIST OF FIGURES Figure 7.1: Chirundu National Fossil Petrified Forest Monument .................................................. 26 Figure 7.2: Location of Chirundu Road and the National Forest Petrified Monument ................. 27 iV Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road LIST OF TABLES Table 4.1: Hydrology along Lusaka-Chirundu Road Corridor .................................................. 18 Table 5.1: Broad Classification of the vegetation types ...................................... ............ 20 Table 6.1: Settlements along Lusaka-Chirundu Road Corridor .................................................. 25 Table 8.1: Community Concerns .................................................. 29 Table 10.1: Table of Evaluated Impacts: .................................................. 43 v Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road LIST OF APPENDICES Appendix 1: Annotated List of Endangered Species ........................................ 110 Appendix 2: List of People Met/ Consulted ........................................ 113 Appendix 3: Kafue Community - List of Participants in the Public Consultation Meeting.114 Appendix 4: Chirundu Community - List of Participants in the Public Consultation Meeting 115 Vi Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road ABBREVIATIONS AND TERMINOLOGY ECZ Environmental Council of Zambia EIA Environmental Impact Assessment EIS Environmental Impact Statement EMP Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan EMU Environmental Management Unit Roads Department EPPCA Environmental Protection and Pollution Control Act m2 Square Meter m3 Cubic Meter NCS National Conservation Strategy NGO Non-governmental Organisation NHCC National Heritage Conservation Commission ZAWA Zambia Wildlife Authority ZESCO Zambia Electricity Supply Corporation .ii U~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~1 Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Introduction The Government of the Republic of Zambia has awarded the contract for the techno- economic studies for detailed engineering design of the Lusaka-Chirundu road rehabilitation project. This contract has been awarded to WSP International Management Consulting International in association with Kiran and Musonda Associates who has also subcontracted Kaizen Consulting International to undertake Environmental Impact Assessment. Under the Zambia's environmental laws road rehabilitation projects of this nature must be subject to a full Environmental Impact Assessment. This document therefore presents the findings of a study to identify both negative and positive environmental impacts together with recommendations to mitigate the identified negative impacts. Expected Road Rehabilitation Works The proposed project will involve complete rehabilitation and or pothole repairs plus a slurry seal, or single surface dressing of the road. In some sections the project may involve upgrading/rehabilitation or widening of the road and adding new drainage structures. Generally, the existing alignments are followed but could include improvements to the vertical and horizontal alignments of isolated sections, which will enhance the safety of road users. Earthworks will thus essentially be limited to the shoulders and drainage repairs. Since there will be no new alignment the potential impacts are therefore reduced, but can still rise during both the rehabilitation and operational phases of the road. Project Background The Lusaka-Chirundu Road is approximately 135 kilometres and was originally constructed in 1951 as a semi-rigid pavement with a lime/cement treated base. It underwent major improvement and rehabilitation in the early 80s. Due to limited maintenance some sections of the road are now in an advanced degree of deterioration thus the need by the Government of the Republic of Zambia (GRZ) to initiate this project for the rehabilitation of the Road. The Roads Department is the executing agency for the implementation of this project. The main objective of the rehabilitation of the Lusaka - Chirundu road is to secure access between Zambia and Zimbabwe and within Southern African Development Co-operation (SADC) countries, thereby making a significant contribution to realising and developing Zambia's economic potential. This objective fits within Zambia's overall poverty alleviation objective, as efficient, sustainable road infrastructure is an essential element for economic development. Methodology and Baseline Information Baseline data was collected through field appraisal, discussion with relevant agencies and institutions in the concerned districts and consultation with local communities and individuals of the project area. The proposed design of the various components of the 3 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~viii Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road Project was studied and discussed with the members of the Project team. The results were compiled and analysed to enable the preparation of the report. Potential Impacts and Mitigating Measures The rehabilitated and upgraded road will follow the existing road alignment from Lusaka to Chirundu. Rehabilitation is likely to cause an increase in traffic, especially heavy vehicles. The major negative environmental impacts have been indentified as: Biophysical Impacts: * Increased air poplution from vehicle emissions (Hydrocarboms, carborn dioxide, carbon monoxide) due to increased trafic. * Disfigurement to the Chirundu Fossil Forest Monument * Increased noise polution both during construction and operation phases * Irrevesible environmental destruction from construction activities such as deforestation, borrow pit digging and camping site for construction workers * Disfigurement to the landscape from construction wastes and burrow pits * River siltation from eroded soil and silt from disturbance * Oil and gasoline spills from construction equipment and activities * Littering domestic refuse and sewarage waste from construction camps * Increased surface runoff due to disturbance of the sub-soil structure * Increased particulate matter (diesel) and dust. Socio-economic Impacts: * Increased access to cheaper goods from other countries * Faster movements along the road * General improvement in local livelihoods due to synergistic impacts of positive effects of the project * Increase in revenue to local authorities and institutions from communications, land rates, licences and personal levy * Changed human settlement patterns due to increased population who may be attracted to the area * Creation of employement opportunities during the construction phase * Increased trade opportunities in the community due to increased population * Faster movements of people and goods on the road ix Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan An Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan covering the design, tendering, construction and operational phases have been elaborated. The plan comprises elements to be incorporated in the detailed design of the project and also in the Tender Documents. The responsibilities of the EMU, the Contractor and of the various public authorities are clearly defined. Environmental monitoring and enforcement are stated along with the output from such monitoring activities. Monitoring responsibilities are specified for the authorities, the EMU and the Contractor. Conclusions and Recommendations The findings from the study indicate that the socio-economic benefits of the improved road to the communities in the project area of influence outweigh the "no- development" scenario. The project is therefore being recommended for implementation provided that the recommended mitigating measures with the implementation of the Impact Mitigation Plan and Environmental Monitoring Plan are undertaken. x Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road 1. INTRODUCTION 1.1. Project Background The Government of the Republic of Zambia has initiated the techno-economic studies for detailed engineering designs of design package 1 for the rehabilitation and Maintenance of the Lusaka-Chirundu Road under the Road Sector Investment Program (ROADSIP) II. The main objective of the program is to improve the national infrastructure through improved maintenance and management in order to speed up socio-economic development at all levels in the country. The Lusaka-Chirundu Road is approximately 135 kilometres and was originally constructed in 1951 as a semi-rigid pavement with a lime/cement treated base. It underwent major improvement and rehabilitation in the early 80s. Due to limited maintenance some sections of the road are now in an advanced degree of deterioration thus the need by the Government of the Republic of Zambia (GRZ) to initiate this project for the rehabilitation of the Road. The Roads Department is the executing agency for the implementation of this project. The main objective of the rehabilitation of the Lusaka - Chirundu road is to secure access between Zambia and Zimbabwe and within Southern African Development Co-operation (SADC) countries, thereby making a significant contribution to realising and developing Zambia's economic potential. This objective fits within Zambia's overall poverty alleviation objective, as efficient, sustainable road infrastructure is an essential element for economic development. 1.2. The Process of Road Rehabilitation The process leading to road rehabilitation is organised under five main areas, namely; preparatory works, tendering process, organizing project implementation, approval and awarding of contracts and supervision of physical works. 1.2.1. Preparatory Works These include selection of roads, field assessment (road interventions, surveys, collection of data, etc), preparing improvements plans (preparing of technical specification, local maps and standard cross sections for works to be carried out and calculations of quantities) and preparation of tender documents. 1.2.2. Tendering Process This process involves invitation to tender, making tender documents available to pre-qualified or registered contractors, organizing pre-tender site visits, issuing tender notices, receipt and opening of tenders, tender evaluation, contract negotiations and awarding of tenders. Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road 1.2.3. Organizing Implementation of a Project This process involves giving notices to contractor to commence work, liaising and reporting to the employer/ client and liaising with contractors work programme and mobilisation of staff, workers and equipment. 1.2.4. Approval and Awarding of Contracts This process entails obtaining performance bond, insurance of work and workers, giving notice to contractor to take possession of site, obtaining contractors work programme and mobilisation of staff, workers and equipment. 1.2.5. Supervision of Physical Work This involves day to day monitoring of physical progress of the workers, application of conditions of contract, enforcement of specifications, measuring of works with contractors' representatives, quality control in form of materials testing at laboratory and on site, certification of work done, preparation of interim payment certificates, control of material and equipment on site, issuing of site instructions and variation orders and settlement of disputes (arbitration, conciliation, etc). 1.3. Objectives of the EIA The main objective of the project are to examine impacts on ecological units and ecological processes of the area including impacts on physical, biological, socio-economic and cultural environment and to provide mitigation measures for identified impacts. 1.4. Scope of the EIA To determine the environmental implications of the road rehabilitation, an EIA must be undertaken according to the Environmental Protection and Pollution (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations of 1997. The Ministry of Works and Supply through Roads Department has identified Lusaka-Chirundu Road for Techno-economic studies and detailed engineering designs of design Package 1, which also encompasses an environmental impact assessment. The EIA will assess the impacts from road rehabilitation and evaluate the alternative. The existing road has been included as a "zero- alternative", in case rehabilitation on the existing road does not take place. The EIA will determine whether Lusaka-Chirundu road will have significant adverse or beneficial impacts on the environment during the rehabilitation and operational life phases, and it will also recommend measures for mitigation of negative environmental effects through the preparation of an environmental management and monitoring plan. The scope of the study is outlined in the Scoping Report and Terms of reference (July 2003) as reviewed, commented and approved by the Environmental Council of Zambia. The output from the EIA is this -2 - Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) comprising of an Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan (EMP). 1.5. Study Approach and Methodology The EIA process took place from June 2003 to August 2003, and involved the following steps: * Review of the existing environmental information and legislation This included review of the Environmental Protection and Pollution Control Act and its subsidiary legislation and other relevant Acts and international conventions. * Initial environmental survey along the proposed road corridor This task involved collecting data along the project areas and identifying areas requiring detailed investigations, which include sensitive areas. * Scoping Including consultative meetings and discussions with relevant government institutions at national, provincial and district level, local communities, Headmen, representatives from NGO's and community based organisations and residents from communities along the road. Letters stating the objectives of the project and requesting local participation and consultation in the process were also distributed. Responses from the consultations and discussions provided the relevant background information and helped identify major environmental concerns of the communities along the road for the EIA process. * Identification of the magnitude and significance of the principal impacts Impacts will be evaluated in terms of magnitude and significance. There are three groupings of impacts on the environment which will be evaluated for the duration of the project namely; * Physical environment * Biological environment * Socio-economic environment * Cultural environment These impacts may be positive (beneficial) or negative (adverse) and will be classified as low, moderate or high to the extent their effects will be described quantitatively in terms of environmental costs and benefits. Effects may be direct or indirect, short term, intermediate or long term. The impacts will be assessed during the following stages of the project: I -~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~3 - Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road * Pre-Construction (Design) Phase * Construction Phase * Operational Phase It will be important that the likely impacts are defined and evaluated at an early stage of the planning process. This was done through scoping the specific impacts and their implications which are pertinent to the road project so that alternatives can then be investigated and changes can be incorporated at the design stage. Other measures will also be identified which can be taken into account during design and construction phases that would enhance the environmental quality of the road. * Identification of appropriate mitigation measures and/or design changes to eliminate or reduce the identified impacts The mitigation measures will be considered to reduce the effect of the development on the surrounding environment. Wherever possible recommendations will be made to mitigate against impacts on the physical, biological and socio-economic environment. * Formulation of an environmental management and monitoring plan The report will include a plan for monitoring and implementation of mitigation measures during construction and operation. Mitigation plans should be included in the tender document to form part of the overall construction contract. 1.6. Environmental Impact Assessment Team The Environmental Impact Assessment is co-ordinated by: J. CHISHIBA - Environmental Management Specialist & EIA Co-ordinator L. MATE - Socio-economist A MUTALE - Hydrologist J. MULOMBA - Natural Resources Specialist The EIA team works in close collaboration with the Project Team consisting of: K. PATEL Chartered Civil Engineer/ Alternate Project Director (Zambia) D. JUDD Highway Engineer/ Team Leader D. B. GREEN Traffic Engineer A. J. SWART Pavement/ Materials Engineer -4 - Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road 2. POLICY, LEGAL AND INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK 2.1. Environmental Policy Framework 2.1.1. National Conservation Strategy The National Conservation Strategy (NCS) is the forerunner to environmental legislation in Zambia. The NCS was adopted by the Government of Zambia in 1985 and led to the enactment of the Environmental Protection and Pollution Control Act in 1990 and provided for the establishment Environmental Council of Zambia (ECZ) which became operational in 1991. The NCS provided guidance for the sustainable development of Zambia through the use and conservation of natural resources within a centrally planned and controlled economy. However in 1992, the National Environmental Action Plan process was established to update the NCS, to meet the demands of an economy undergoing liberalisation and to update technical information. 2.2. Environmental Legislative Framework 2.2.1. Environmental Protection and Pollution Control Act, Chapter 204 The Environmental Protection and Pollution Control Act (EPPCA), Cap 204, Part IV to VII sets the role of ECZ in setting environmental quality standards for waste, water, air pesticides and toxic substances, noise, ionising radiation and natural resources conservation. In 1997 an amendment to the EPPCA established the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, Statutory Instrument No. 28 of 1997 for conducting and review of Environmental Impact Assessment of certain projects such as this one on road rehabilitation. The Environmental Council of Zambia is a Statutory body mandated to enforce the provisions of the EPPCA for the protection of the environment through provisions on natural resource management and pollution control as provided for under the Act. 2.2.2. EIA Legislative Requirements This Environmental Impact Statement was prepared in accordance with the legal framework on Environmental Management enshrined in the Environmental Protection and Pollution Control Act, Cap 204 of the Laws of Zambia and its subsidiary legislation, the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations S.I. No. 28 of 1997. Specifically, Section 3(1) of the EIA Regulations states that, "a developer shall not implement a project for which a project brief or environmental impact statement is required under these Regulations, unless the project brief or the environmental impact statement has been concluded in accordance with these -5 - Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road regulations and the Environmental Council of Zambia has issued a decision letter." The contents of an Environmental Impact Statement shall be prepared to include the following elements: * A description of the project; * A description of the site; * A description of the raw material inputs, technology, processes, products and by-products; * A description of the site surrounding environment; * A description of the environmental effects; * A description of the socio-economic impacts; * Impact management Plan EIA Le2islative Requirement for Road Rehabilitation The proposed project is outlined under the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations S.I. No. 28 of 1997, Second Schedule (Regulations (7)(2)) Section 2(a) under the heading Transportation: The Regulation states that All major roads outside urban areas, the construction of new roads and major improvements over 10 km in length or over I km in length if the road passes through a National Park or Game Management Area shall require an Environmental Impact Assessment. The Lusaka-Chirundu road is a major road outside the urban areas and require major improvements over 10 km in length. Therefore the EIA process was conducted in line with the provisions of these EIA Regulations. 2.3. Road Sector Policy and Management Framework The current policy on road management in Zambia is enshrined in interalia, the Roads and Road Traffic Act, Cap 766 of 1969, the Local Government Act No.22 of 1991 and the National Parks and Wildlife Services Act of 1991. The Ministry of Communications and Transport (MCT) is in charge of policy on road transport. The National Roads Board was established in 19964 by MCT and is mandated to manage a Road Fund. The Department of Roads, Local Authorities, Zambia Wildlife Authority and Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries are designated Highway authorities. Institutions with direct responsibilities for road management are presented below: * The Department of Roads in the Ministry of Works and Supply is responsible for management of inter-territorial main roads (T-roads), territorial main roads (M-Roads) and District Roads with prefix D (D- roads). * The Local Authorities under the auspices of the Ministry of Local Government and Housing are in charge of management of district roads with prefix RD (RD-roads), rural roads (R-roads) and Branch roads B- roads). -6 - Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road * Zambia Wildlife Authority under the auspices of the Ministry of Tourism, Environment and Natural Resources is responsible for management of roads situated within the boundaries of National Parks and Tourist areas as per section 41 and 42 of the National Parks and Wildlife Act of 1991, as well as management of certain Branch roads (B-roads) and Estate roads (E-roads). * The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries takes care of a limited network of roads leading to mainly agricultural camps, Farmers Training Institutes. * The Ministry of Finance and National Planning is responsible for among other things budgeting and planning. 2.4. Other Acts Reviewed Relevant to the Road Rehabilitation Project The Acts below have also been reviewed in order to ensure that the project complies with other relevant existing laws that have a bearing on environmental management. 2.4.1. National Parks and Wildlife Act, Chapter 201 The National Parks and Wildlife Act provides for the establishment, control and management of National Parks and Game Management Areas. Under this Act is a schedule of Protected animal species. The Lusaka-Chirundu road does not pass through the national park. Therefore the impacts of rehabilitation works on wildlife are considered insignificant. 2.4.2. Town and Country Planning Act, Chapter 283 The Town and Country Planning Act, came into force in 1962 and provides for the control, use and change of land use zones and reservations for various purposes, eg. siting of work sites. It also provides for the compensation of those affected by planning decisions and regulated development subdivisions. The road rehabilitation project will be undertaken in accordance with the approved land use plans as provided for under the Town and Country Planning Act. 2.4.3. Forest Act, Chapter 199 The Forest Act, passed in 1974, provides for the establishment and management of National and Local forests, conservation and protection of forest and trees, and licensing and sale of forest products. The Act prohibits the felling, collecting or injuring of forest products in protected forest areas or forest reserves, unless a license has been obtained to do so. It also prohibits -7 - Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road excavation, construction, and operation of machinery within the forest reserves or protected areas. Forest. rserves currently cover approximately 10% of the country and are intended for the conservation and development of forest resources, as well as providing protection to watersheds. The Act also provides for the protection of 6 tree species nationally whether in a protected area or outside it. These are as follows: Entandrophragma caudatum Mountain Mahogany Khaya nyasica Red Mahogany Pterocarpus angolensis African Teak Afzelia quanzensis Pod Mahogany Faurea saligna Beechwood Baikiaea plurijuga Teak During biological/ecological investigations protected tree species have been found along the road corridor. During road rehabilitation, these species will be addressed in accordance with the measures outlined in the management plan in this report. 2.4.4. Water Act, Chapter 198 The Water Act provides for the control, ownership and use of public and private water excluding that of Zambezi, Luapula and Luangwa Rivers which border with other countries. Public water use is controlled by the Water Board through the allocation of water rights which are granted following investigation, advertisement and, where necessary, permission from the chief. The Act also establishes the pollution of public water as an offence, although the Water Pollution Control Regulations are established by the EPPCA. The project will comply with the provisions of the Act by ensuring that storm water disposal structures intended to control runoffs from the road into the aquatic environment (both surface and groundwater) are part of the overall detailed designs for road rehabilitation. 2.4.5. National Heritage Conservation Commission Act The National Heritage and Conservation Act established the National Heritage Conservation Commission (NHCC), which is responsible for the conservation of ancient, cultural and natural heritage, relics and objects of aesthetic, historical, prehistoric, archaeological or scientific interest by preservation, restoration, rehabilitation, reconstruction, adaptive use and good management. The Commission also provides regulations for archaeological excavation and export of re*cs. If a development is unable to proceed without affecting an item of heritage, permission must be sought from the NHCC as outlined in Sections 35 and 36 of the National Heritage Conservation Commission Act. -8 - Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road During the road surveys and detailed EIA investigations items of heritage have been found in some areas and will be addressed in accordance with the mitigation measures provided in the management plan in this report. 2.4.6. The Land Act of 1995 The Land Act of 1995 was enacted to quarantee peoples' right to land while enhancing development. The Act recognises the holding of land under customary tenure and the Chief's role has been legally recognised, such that land cannot be converted or alienated without approval of the chief. The developer worked closely with the local community and has obtained consent from Chiefs, Headmen, Area Councillors and local authorities of Kafue and Chirundu Communities during the EIA process and will continue to do so during final road rehabilitation works. 2.4.7. The Lands Acquisition Act No. 2 of 1970 Land acquisition is governed by the Lands Acquisition Act No. 2 of 1970. The Act sets out regulations for compulsory acquisition of land and property and compensation for such acquisition. The president (his designated and authorized person) may acquire any property in the interest of the Republic. Notice shall be given in person not less than two months in advance and shall be gazetted. Compensation for acquired property, losses and damages shall be paid as may be agreed or, finally determined by the National Assembly in case agreement on compensation is not reached within six weeks after publication in the Gazette. Any disputes except for disputes related to the amount of compensation may be instituted for court proceedings. The Act also opens for compensation to be granted by allocation of new land to the property owner. The Act instituted a Compensation Advisory Board to advise the Minister of Lands in assessment of compensation payable under the Act. The functions of the Board have been delegated to various committees. Various forms to be used in proceedings of property acquisition are prescribed in the statutory Instrument No. 60 of 1970. The developer will confine the rehabilitation works within the road reserve area i.e. 30m from the centre of the road to either side of the road to minimise impacts in the immediate environment. 2.4.8. Mines and Minerals Act, Chapter 32 The Mines and Minerals Act Cap 32 of 1976 regulates activities relating to mines and minerals operations including quanrying and provides for regulations for environrnental protection during prospecting and mining activities and rehabilitation of the areas mined. Further, the Ministry of Transport and Communications, Environmental guidelines Section 7.6 (2) states that: g Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road "Contractors shall obtain licenses from the Ministry of Mines to operate borrow areas" and 7.10 (6) states that "Contractors shall obtain mining licenses for quarrying". In this project quarrying for gravel material will be carried out and rehabilitation of the quarries created in the process will be carried out based on the mitigation measures and the rehabilitation plans outlined in this document and in the subsequent Environmental Project Brief. 2.4.9. Roads and Traffic Control Act, Chapter 464 The Roads and Traffic Control Act, provides for the control of traffic, and for the regulation of storm water disposal structures. In this road rehabilitation project, requirements for storm water disposal structures along the access road as providedfor under this Act are part of the overall designs for road rehabilitation. 2.4.10.Local Government Act, Chapter 281 The Local Government Act allows the Council to implement environmental protection and natural resources management functions which include prevention of pollution of water supplies and undertaking of mining operations. For instance, the Act would support the location and restorations of borrow pit sites, subject to approval by the relevant Government Departments and Local Communities in the areas in which they are located. Location and siting of camps and borrow pits will be undertaken with consultations and consent from the local community and approval from relevant Government Departments. In the case of opening a new borrow pit this will require approvalfrom the Environmental Council of Zambia by way of undertaking an Environmental Project Brief. 2.4.11.Public Health Act, Chapter 295 The Public Health Act empowers a Council to prevent diseases and pollution dangerous to human health and to any water supply for domestic use. The project will ensure that measures to prevent diseases and pollution dangerous to human health and to any water supply are taken into account through the provision of a road drainage control system. 2.4.12.Factories Act, Chapter 441 The Factories Act provides a framework for the setting of regulations to ensure the safety, health and welfare of persons employed on construction work sites and in factories. The Act is applicable during road rehabilitation. - 10- Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road The project will ensure that the safety, health and welfare measures and facilities of workers during road rehabilitation will be in accordance with the provisions of the Factories Act. 2.4.13.Petroleum Act, Chapter 439 The areas of the Petroleum Act of relevance to this project are regulations for the conveyance and storage of petroleum, inflammable oil and liquids e. g. paraffin. Where petroleum products shall be transported to or stored on site this shall be done in compliance with the provisions of the Petroleum Act. 2.4.14.Energy Regulation Act, Chapter 436 This Act allows for the establishment of procedures for the transportation, handling and storage of fuels to minimize negative environmental impacts. Where fuels shall be transported to, handled or stored on site this shall be done in compliance with the provisions of the Energy Regulation Act. 2.5. International and Regional Conventions Zambia is a signatory to a number of international and regional conventions, the ones which are related to the environment are listed below:- * Convention on Wetlands of International Importance especially as a Waterfowl Habitat * Convention on the Protection of World Cultural and Natural Heritage * Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna * United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change * Convention on Biological Diversity United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification Of the above only the Convention on the Protection of World Cultural and Natural Heritage has some relevance for the project since the Chirundu Fossil Forest Site, which is affected by the road rehabilitation, is an item of Natural Heritage. The site will be addressed by the project as proposed in this Environmental Management Plan. Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road 3. PROJECT DESCRIPTION 3.1. Project Location The extent of the road section is from the Cairo Road/Independence Avenue intersection (Kafue Roundabout) at the outskirts of Lusaka Central Business District through to the border post at Chirundu. The total length of the Lusaka- Chirundu road is 135km. The road section from Lusaka up to a distance of approximately 51.0km past Kafue town is designated as the Ti trunk road and culminates in a T-junction at this point with a right hand turnoff to Livingstone. The Lusaka-Chirundu road is a tarred, running through the Central and Southern parts of Zambia which ensures access to Chirundu border with Zimbabwe. The road passes through stretches of forest reserve and archaeological site of importance. The road is an inter-territorial road and is therefore classified as type T-road and falls under the responsibility of the Department of Roads in the Ministry of Works and Supply. 3.2. Project Activities The proposed project will involve complete rehabilitation and or pothole repairs plus a slurry seal, or single surface dressing of the road. In some sections the project may involve upgrading/rehabilitation or widening of the road and adding new drainage structures. Generally, the existing alignments are followed but could include improvements to the vertical and horizontal alignments of isolated sections, which will enhance the safety of road users. Since there will be no new alignment the potential impacts are therefore reduced, but will still arise during both the rehabilitation and operational phases of the road. 3.2.1. Phases in Road Rehabilitation The road rehabilitation works are divided into phases namely; pre-construction (design) phase, construction phase and operational phase. Different environmental impacts may be generated during the different phases. The activities involved in each phase are elaborated in the sections below. Pre-Construction (Design) Phase This phase involves carrying out a survey of the proposed road. Survey in this case refers to land investigations, drilling, measurements and pre-works examination of the site. To facilitate the conceptual design an environmental impact assessment was undertaken and the key concerns from the study were also taken into account in the design phase. The output from this phase is an environmentally friendly engineering design for road rehabilitation which has to be implemented in the construction phase. -12 - Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road Construction Phase The actual rehabilitation of the road will take place in the construction phase. The estimated roadwork will cover the following activities: * Road Rehabilitation As the conditions of the road vary, the road would have to undergo different degree of work, which will have different levels of impact on the environment. The Project Team has carried out a number of surveys and analysis(l) to determine the condition of the road to assess what it would require to improve the existing road to an acceptable safety, speed and environmental standard. According to these surveys the estimated work required to bring the road to an acceptable standard would include some interventions. 3 Reconstruction of the shoulders The general condition of the shoulders of the road is very poor. Most of the shoulders have completely disappeared or are covered with vegetation. Often the vegetation consists of tall grasses, obstructing drivers' sight and thus increasing the risk of accident. The shoulders will be completely reconstructed and rehabilitated to its original width of 1.8. In certain areas, an increase in width may be envisaged to cater for the large number of non-motorised users of the road, such as pedestrians and cyclists. * Cleaning and clearing of ditches, culverts and drains Ditches have been constructed all along the side of the road. Most of these ditches are silted up and overgrown by vegetation, and they will need to be cleared and reshaped during the rehabilitation process. This will also include the mitre drains. The Project Team has observed several culverts on the road (to be elaborated in the hydrological and drainage survey). * Installation of new road furniture and the rehabilitation of existing Presently the road has very little road furniture in the forms of road signs, demarcations and lining, safety barriers, kilometre posts, culvert beacons, traffic lights. The Project will introduce all the above mentioned furniture. 3 These surveys include: topographical survey, hydrological and drainage survey, structural condition survey, road condition survey, soils and material analysis and a traffic survey -13 - Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road * Reconstruction of existing lay-by The Project Team has observed some lay-bys along the road. The lay-bys vary from simple dirt areas of 2-3 m next to the road to wide circle shaped lay-bys separated from the road by the ditch. Some of the lay-bys have concrete benches and tables on the Lusaka-Chirundu road around the Muchinga escarpment hills. Given the type and frequency of traffic more lay-by will be considered necessary. The lay-bys will be paved and separated from the road. * Road Safety Measures At present there are no traffic safety measures or speed reducing devices along the road. The Project will install these at black spots and at strategic areas around settlements, villages and towns. Operational Phase This is the post-construction phase when all the road rehabilitation works have been completed and the road has been commissioned for use. 3.2.2. Sources of Road Rehabilitation Materials Quarries and Borrow Pits A number of quarries and borrow pits, which could be used for stone and gravel extraction, are found along the road. The exact borrow pits to be used have not yet been identified though the projects approach is to establish borrow areas at an average frequency of 5kms along each road. However preference will be made concerning areas that have been partially exploited and if possible, pits on state land or in less densely populated areas will be exploited. No places for disposal of spoil and construction waste have yet been identified. Rock Ag2regate During site reconnaissance one active commercial quarry was encountered namely: * Kafue Quarry located approximately 32km south of Lusaka; The quarry appear to be in strategic location and is equipped to provide the necessary rock aggregate for surfacing, asphalt and concrete works. The Kafue quarry is ideally situated to supply the first 80kms from Lusaka to Chirundu. In the course of further materials investigation's to supply the section of the road towards Chirundu, preference should be given to potential quarries that have been exploited in the past. -14 - Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road 3.3. Analysis of Alternative Approaches The Lusaka-Chirundu road connects Lusaka to the Southern Province and to Zambia's neighbouring countries in Southern Africa. The main reasons for selecting the Lusaka-Chirundu road for rehabilitation include: * The corridor links the Southern Province to Lusaka; * The southern part of Zambia has agricultural and tourism development potential, which would lead to an improved living standard; and * Upgrading of the main road accompanied by parallel development of feeder roads in the surrounding areas will add strongly to the possibility of realising this potential. Taking the effect of road project on the environment other alternatives were taken into consideration. The purpose was to assess the effects of these alternatives on the environment against expected benefits. The alternatives considered are: * No-action alternatives 3 Reconstruction alternative * Rehabilitation alternatives 3.3.1. No-Action Alternative This alternative assumes that there will be no improvement or changes in the present state of the road. This would imply that the road, which is presently paved but in a state of deterioration in the form of cracking, potholes and bleeding and edge breaking, would be left unimproved. In certain places the road is in such a bad condition that diversion roads have been created adjacent to the road. With this alternative the main reason for improving the Lusaka-Chirundu road, which is to link the Southern Province to Lusaka and to develop the agricultural and tourism potential of the southern part of Zambia, would not be achieved. This would mean that the economic and social development of the Southern Province would not take place, as all development opportunities, such as easy movement of agricultural produce, creation of new jobs, easy movement of passenger, reduced vehicle-operating costs, etc. would not be realised. The poor conditions of the road in form of potholes, cracks and a rough road profile make the road very uncomfortable to ride on and very accident prone as drivers easily lose control in trying to avoid potholes. With the present advanced state of deterioration due to inadequate maintenance, the conditions of the road are likely to deteriorate further if the road remains unrehabilitated. A No-action alternative is not recommended as the choice to be adopted. -15 - Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road 3.3.2. Reconstruction Alternative This alternative implies the complete reconstruction of the entire road. It would not include any realignment as no other preferred stretch has been identified as a better way to the Southern Province and the Southern African countries. This alternative would require extensive roadwork both to rip up existing road and put in place the new road. According to technical surveys carried out by the project Team, some sections of the road would require rework on the base, while parts of the road are in such good conditions that they require only limited work to bring the road to an acceptable state. This solution would not only be time consuming and very costly, but would also have an important negative impacts on the environment. The benefits would never overweigh the cost, both economic and environmental. A reconstruction alternative is not recommended as the choice to be adopted. 3.3.3. Rehabilitation Alternative This alternative implies improving the existing road to an acceptable safety, speed and environmental standard. As the existing road alignment is already a paved road and a strategic road, the present alignment is the logical choice for rehabilitation and no other preferred roads (paved or gravel) were identified as a better way to Southern Province and the rest of Southern African countries. The conditions of the road vary over the entire length, and certain stretches need considerable work than others. According to the field surveys and technical analysis carried out by the Project Team the road will require resurfacing, either as a complete pavement reconstruction or merely a pavement overlay, to meet an acceptable riding standard. On some sections of the road, the base and sub base have been so severely damaged that it will require a complete rework. This solution would be costly, but far less than the reconstruction alternative and the environmental implications far lesser. There will be certain negative impacts in the environment during the rehabilitation phase, however the socio- economic benefits to especially the Southern Province and the country at large would be considerable as access will be improved. The advantages associated with the rehabilitation alternative far outweigh the disadvantages social, economic and environmental. Even though initial costs would be high, the accrued economic and cultural benefits far outweigh the other alternatives. -16- Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road 4. PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT OF ROAD SITE & ITS SURROUNDINGS 4.1. Topography The general topography is flat from Lusaka to deeply dissected terrain as you approach Chirundu. 4.2. Soils and Geology The topology is generally flat from Lusaka to Mapepe but the landscape assumes a deeply dissected terrain with rocks of Basement series on the scarp as you approach Simuchenda. Rocks of Katanga series and Karroo sediments are prominent in the valley and rocks of the basement complex-gneiss, schist and limestone extend over most of the stretch. Schist is variable and weathers to soils which carry both munga and miombo woodland. The small areas of basalt give rise to shallow heavy soils carrying mopane scrub. 4.3. Climate The climate in the project area is typically subtropical with warm and wet season from November to April and cool and dry season from September to November. The average rainfall is 300mm in December. 4.4. Hydrology and Drainage The road cuts across the Lower Kafue River Basin and terminates into the Zambezi River Basin. The catchment size of the Kafue River is estimated to range between 25,000km2 to 200,000km2, while that of the Zambezi is larger, with the lower part of the catchment lying outside Zambia. The road crosses over the Kafue River, at the Kafue Road Bridge (55km from Lusaka) and ends at the crossing point of the Zambezi river (135km from Lusaka). In addition to the main crossing at Kafue, there are 14 bridges and several culverts along the route. Culverts serve as drainage points for runoff water from the hills that line the route, many of which are in a good state. Apart from the Kafue and Zambezi rivers, the remainder of the rivers and streams are not perennial with peak flows concentrated in the wet season. Most of the settlements along the route have access to wells and boreholes for their water supply. However for the settlements located close to the Kafue and Zambezi rivers, domestic water is sourced from the two water bodies. The table below gives a breakdown of the rivers, streams and wetlands along the route. -17- Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road Table 4.1: Hydrology along Lusaka-Chirundu Road Corridor Distance from Lusaka Description Name (ki) 15km Dambo Munda Wanga Stream 16km Dambo Mapepe 55km River Kafie River 58km Stream (dry) Nansenga 74km Stream (dry) Gesha 77.5km Stream (dry) Moobe 83km Stream (dry) Mapoto 86km Stream (dry) Wamba 98km Stream Musaya 101km Stream (dry) Mweela I1I17.6km Stream (dry) Katwezele 121.2km Stream (dry) Unknown 129km Stream (dry) Munenga 136.3km Stream (dry) Unknown Source: Consultants surveys 4.5. Water Quality The main water body on this road is the Kafue River. This river is the major transporter of industrial liquid waste and is also the source for drinking water. However, river silts, debris, erosion, industrial effluents negatively impact on the river water quality. These issues as well as spillage from petrol, chemical and storage sites will need to be mitigated during rehabilitation and operational phases of the road. 4.6. Air quality The air quality in the project varies considerably due to different economic activities taking place. As one move from Lusaka through Chilanga one tends to cross areas of heavy industrial activities which are all contributing to air pollution. Jus on the outskirts of Lusaka going to Chirundu is a heavy traffic which contribute to air pollution in form of exhaust fumes. In Chilanga is the Chilanga Cement Company which also contribute to dust emissions. After Chilanga going towards Kafue Town is a Quarry site which also emits substantial amounts of dust. In Kafue town the air tends to get polluted principally from Nitrogen Chemicals of Zambia. Other industries in Kafue town are Bata Tannery and Kafue Textiles. After Kafue town going towards Chirundu it can be concluded that the air quality tends to be generally of good quality. However, the advent of a new road may result in increased gaseous emissions which may affect air quality. Dust during rehabilitation works may pose air quality problems and this will need to be mitigated. 4.7. Wetland and Dambos The road passes through approximately 14 dambos or riverbed where embankments/ culverts have been constructed. Most of these areas are dry in the dry season and flooded during rainy season. These areas are important from socio-economic point of view (as fertile agricultural lands) and from a natural point of view it is important to maintain these areas to ensure the -18- Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road natural flow of water. At approximately 55km the road crosses one of the major rivers in Zambia, the Kafue River. This river is the source for drinking water and power generation at Kafue Power Gorge, and also industries such as Nitrogen Chemicals and Kafue Textiles draw their process water from this same river. -19 - Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road 5. BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT 5.1. Flora and Fauna 5.1.1. Classification of Vegetation The classification of vegetation along the road transect is in accordance with that of Edmund's classification of Vegetation types for Zambia, 1976. This is in line with the Chakanga De Barker classification of their Woodland Resources Management of 1984. The broad classification of the vegetation types adopted is as follows: Table 5.1: Broad Classification of the vegetation types Forests Woodlands Grasslands Bush Groups Trees Outside Forests Baikiaea Miombo For the purpose of this study an Parinari Mopane additional Montane Munga vegetation class Itigi Kalahari adopted was Tress Riparian . Outside Forests Dry Deciduous Woodland This is a Dalbergia-Combretum shrub-scrambler thicket dominated by Dalbergia spp and Combretum spp. The common associated scrambler taxa include Acacia ataxacantha (Mugowa konoto T), Capparis tomentosa (Chimwese T) and Grewaflavescens. There are also spots of emergents of this woodland that include Adansonia digitata (Mubuyu, T), Berchemia discolor (Mwii T), Boscia angustifolia (Muyusa T). Riparian Woodland This consists of a narrow band of forest along the rivers and streams. The taxa Bridelia micrantha (Musangu sangu T), Ficus capensis (Mukuyu, T), Mimusops zeyheri(Mukulanjoni T) Syzygium guineense (Katope, T) form the outer riparin fringe along most streams that traverse the Lusaka Chirundu transect. The commoner shrubs and smaller trees include Acalypha ornata, Azazna garkeana(Munego, T), Bauhinia tomentosa (Mupondopondo T) and Markhamia obtusifolia (Mupetakwale, T). Miombo Woodland This woodland is dominated by Braschystegia-Julbernardia species. It covers most of the hills along the transect. There is frequently a catenal sequence found; miombo at the crests of the ridges and down the slopes. This is gradually replaced by the mopane and at the bottom of the slope is found a narrow belt of thicket fringing seasonal water courses. -20 - Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road Braschystegialongifolia and Julbernardia globiflora are the usual dominants. The commoner canopy associates are Braschystegia spiciformis, Burkea africana, Parinari curatelifolia and Monotes africana. The commoner shrubs and small trees include Bauhinia petersiana,Diplorhynchus condylocarpon, Psuedolachynostilis maprouneifolia. On the lowest scarp slopes and on many of the ridges and kojes in the valley miombo occurs in admixture with munga woodland. Braschystegia boehmii and Combretum spp are dominant associated with Markhamia acuminata in the upper and characteristic hilly species such as the paper barked Bridelia mollis, Commiphora spp, Sterculia quinqueloba. MunLa Woodland This woodland characterised by Acacias, Combretums and Terminalias occurs on some of the deepest and most fertile soils along the transect. The associated species include Acacia tortilis, A. sieberana, Adansonia digitata, Sclerocarya caffra (Marula) and Tamarindus indica. Mopane Woodland The canopy of this woodland is almost exclusively dominated by the principal taxa of Colophosermum mopane. However, occasionally, Adansonia digitata, Afzelia quanzensis were seen in the canopy cover. The woodland commonly carry a considerable undergrowth of such shrubs and small trees as Combretum spp and Dalbergia melanoxylon. Terminaria These occur on the more level to gently sloping sandstone slopes with understorey species typical of miombo woodland but dominated by such species as Diospros mesipiliformis and Sclelocarya caffra. Low termite mounds occur here and there in scrub mopane and munga woodlands. The dominants are from the surrounding woodland. Grassland * Dambo grassland The vegetation is a moderately dense mat of grasses, sedges and herbs. The cushion-like perennial grasses occur in bunches with Loudetia simplex as the characteristic taxon associated with Aristida, Leersia hexandra (Rice relative) and Eragrotis spp. * Riverine grassland This occur as a narrow belt of Hyparrhenia grasses, principally, H. cymbaria, H. filipendula and H. rufa associated with Bracharia and Setaria grasses. Panicum spp and Acrocerns macrum are common in wetter parts. Tress Outside Forests These may be referred to as trees and tree environments on land not defined as forest or other wooded land. They include trees planted along roadsides and backyards. - 21 - Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road The road is flanked by a relatively good spectacle of planted exotic tree and shrub species notably Eucalyptus ssp, Bouganivillea, Tricalia emetica, Vitex trifoliate, Gmelina aborea, Toona cilliata, Senna siamea, Callistermoni viminallis, Mangifera indica, Vitex trifoliata. The Munga woodland then flanks the road up to Kafue. 5.1.2. Flora and Fauna along Lusaka-Chirundu Road Vegetation The vegetation types along the Lusaka-Chirundu road are strongly tied to the nature of topography, lithology and soil characteristics on which they occur. The rainfall regimes and underground water discharged from surrounding areas do modify the structure of the vegetation and its floristic composition. Large areas along this road are covered by stunted woodland and secondary thicket formations. The vegetation found within the study area are described below. Basically there were five distinct woodland types observed along the Lusaka- Chirundu transect namely Mopane, Munga, Riparian and dry deciduous woodlands. Fauna There are a number of rare and endangered animals as the road approaches the hills of Chirundu with a sizeable population of most monkeys. Further on towards Chirundu border with Zimbabwe antelope species, as well as elephant (Loxodanta africana), Baboon (Papio cynocephalus) are being observed. Although these animals are mostly found on the side of Zimbabwe Game Park, they have also been observed in the Chirundu area. -22 - Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road 6. SOCIO-ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT 6.1. Demographic Profile 6.1.1. Lusaka Lusaka District has a population of about 1.1 million and an annual growth rate of 3.8%. The population is made of persons coming from all the different parts of Zambia and some foreign nationals. The main tribal groupings in the rural areas of Lusaka are Soli, Lenje, Illa and Tonga. However, different tribes from different parts of the country have settled in the project area. Lusaka also has got a number of religions and out of the total popiulation of 1,057,212 people 239,740 are Catholic, 643,552 are Protestants, 13318 are Muslims, 2,485 are Hindus, 101,632 comprise small religions and 56,485 do not belong to any religion. Lusaka has a total population of 684,943 people who are 15 years and above out of which 325,475 are economically active. In particular about 179,990 people work for a pay, out of which 161,248 people are non seasonal, while 14,890 are seasonal workers and 3,852 are on leave. A total number of 57,733 are unpaid workers out of which 54,962 are non seasonal and 2,771 are seasonal. It has a number of 74,540 unemployed while 359, 468 are economically inactive. 6.1.2. Chilanga According to the 2000 census of population and housing, Chilanga has a population of about 42,066 people of which 21,799 are male and 20,267 are females, in terms of percentage 51.82 percentage are male and 48.18 are females. 6.1.3. Kafue The population of Kafue town has increased from 117,357 in 1990 of which 59,668 were male and 57,686 were females to 162,262 in 2000 of which 83,421 are male and 78,841 are females according to Census of 2000. This gives an annual population growth rate of 3.3 percent of which 3.4 percent are male and 3.2 percent are female. The people in Kafue town belong to different number of religions, out of 142,744 people of 15 years and over, 28,033 are Protestants, 748 are Muslims 56 are Hindus, 3,446 belong to other small religions and 6,058 do not belong to any religions. Presently the economic activities in Kafue District have gone down due to low production activities at Nitrogen Chemicals of Zambia and Kafue Textiles of Zambia. As a result out of 27,097 people who are 15 years and above, only 10,357 are economically active and this represents 38.2 percent while 5,495 -23 - Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road are paid workers and 2,087 are unpaid workers and 2,311 are unemployed. Also 16,740 are economically inactive and 3,467 are not available for work. 6.1.4. Chirundu According to the 2000 census of population and housing Chirundu has a population of 9,576 out of which 4,704 are males and 4871 are females and in terms of percentage 49.13 percentage are males and 50.87 are females. 6.2. Economic Profile along Lusaka-Chirundu Road The people that have settled along the Lusaka-Chirundu road are involved in a varied number of economical activities to sustain their livelihood. As you travel down the road from Lusaka, notable activities include quarring, block making, welding, tyre mending and selling of farm produce. Others are workers in industries found along this route such as TAP and Chilanga Cement Factories in Chilanga and Nitrogen Chemicals of Zambia, Kafue Textiles Factories in Kafue. Those that have settled near the two big rivers along this route namely Kafue and Zambezi rivers are also involved in fishing activities. As you approach Siavonga Turn off the major economical activities here is timber trading in indigenous tree species. The stretch from Kafue River to Chilundu, can only support such agricultural activities as cattle and goat raring. At the Chirundu boarder itself notable activities include trading (selling of essentials to travellers especially truckers) and hospitality industry. 6.3. Land-use The land-use along the Lusaka-Chirundu road is charaterised by industrial, agricultural activity and forest areas. Though woodland is still the predominant type of vegetation on the road, however the Lusaka-Chirundu road is covered by stunted woodland and secondary thicket formations. Some of these forests are now degraded, particularly in the vicinity of the road. Farming and animal husbandry have significantly altered the visual impression of the original vegetation and the land-use along the road is now mainly crop farming mixed with forests. 6.4. Settlements The Lusaka-Chirundu road goes through areas of varying agricultural potential, ranging from flat regions, characteristic of the southern parts of Lusaka and parts of Kafue. The Lusaka-Chirundu road passes through four districts, these are Lusaka, Kafue, Mazabuka and Siavonga. It is between the towns of Lusaka and Kafue that economic activity is concentrated, which is mainly agriculture, mining, processing, trading and fishing. Agricultural production is at commercial, medium and small-scale levels, while major industries are at Chilanga and Kafue. The section of the road with the above conditions makes up approximately half of the total distance covered by the route. The latter section of the road goes through a region of hills and intersecting valleys, cutting across parts of the Zambezi Escarpment. This section of the road has little economic activity, comprising mainly rural settlements in -24 - Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road Mazabuka and Siavonga Districts. The table below gives a breakdown of the settlements along the road. Table 6.1: Settlements along Lusaka-Chirundu Road Corridor Distance from Side of the road Settlement Name Comments Lusaka Okm-i km Both Industrial Industrail lkm South-East Misisi Compound Peri-Urban Settlement lkm West New Chibolya Peri-Urban Settlement 2km West John Laing Peri-Urban Settlement 7km Both Makeni Small Holdings 1 lkm East Lilayi Small Holdings 14km East Freedom Peri-Urban Settlement 21km East Mapepe Settlement 26km East Chipongwe West Settlement 29km Both Shimabala Settlement 40.5km East Shikoswe Peri-Urban Settlement 41km Both Kafue District Capital 55km South Kasaka Settlement 57km North Kafue Bridge Settlement 59km Both Tum Pike Settlement 62km Both Simuchende Settlement 62km North Nanduba School/Settlement 72km Both Chileleka Settlement 75km Both Roads Dept Settlement 77km North Chileleka School/Settlement 82km Both Siamikobo Settlement 84km North Kabulongo Settlement 84.8km North Siamikobo School/Settlement 95.1km North Nalube Settlement 100.5km South Samboko Settlement 113km Both Kabanana Settlement 117.6km Both Hashaka/Kabanana Settlement 125km South Siavonga Tumoff Settlement 126km North Chirundu Fossil Settlement Forest Monument 131km North Munenga Settlement 137.1km North Oasis Pleasure Resort Small Holding 141.2km Both Chirundu Settlement Source: Consultants surveys -25 - Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road 7. CULTURAL ENVIRONMENT 7.1. Cultural Resources 7.1.1. Archaeological, Cultural and Historical Sites Within the Lusaka-Chirundu road corridor lies an item of heritage, the fossil forest site. The site is known as Chirundu National Petrified Forest Monument and is found in the area of Chief Sikongo in Siavonga District. It is located south of the Lusaka-Chirundu Road, 21 km from Chirundu border at the corner of the access road to Lake Kariba. It lies at approximately latitude 16 degrees 2 minutes South, longitude 28 degrees 40 minutes East. Mopane woodland is the main vegetation type on site and in the immediate surrounding areas. Figure 7.1: Chirundu National Fossil Petrified Forest Monument *-?\i E L(or1 et 11-un--t I~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ I- The site together with those outside the declared site enjoy equal protection status under the National Heritage Conservation Commission Act, Cap 173 of the Laws of Zambia and should be protected under any circumstances during road rehabilitation works. The National Heritage Conservation Commission is the custodian of Zambia's unique heritage, which include fossils. The Chirundu Fossil Forest is a place in Zambia where conifer-like trees were growing about 150 million years ago during the time the Karroo system was being formed. I - 3 ~ ~~~sau -26-h aioa eiae osrain omsinAc,Cp13o Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road Figure 7.2: Location of Chirundu Road and the National Forest Petrified Monument I~~~~~~~~~~ For-%il Ftore%t %lonuniunm loc;aittl %%ithin lht: ro;d rewrlze are;a I ~~~~The wood was slowly preserved by silica replacement of the cellulose and the trunks remain as fossils. Although the site lies within the Lusaka-Chirundu road reserve area, the site was declared a national monument to protect the I ~ ~~~unique geological features (fossilized), which are found there, and to present them as samples of the type of fossils that are found in the Chirundu area. I ~~~~Disturbance in this area should be reduced to the absolute minimum. This means construction of diversion roads, location of campsites, crusher and asphalt plants and extraction of materials should as far as possible be avoided. -~~~~~~~~~~~2 I~~. 1111 I~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ I~ ~ , .e I~ ~ ~ ~Tewo a lwypeevdb iiarpaeeto h ells n h I~ ~ ~ ~tuk eana osl.Atoghtest iswti h uaaCiud I~ ~ ~ ~ra eev ra h iewsdelrdantoa ouett rtc h * ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~- 27 - Environmentai Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road 8. PUBLIC MEETINGS/ CONSULTATIONS 8.1. Approach and Methodology The method adopted for community consultations was open discussions with the relevant local institutions at provincial and district level, Headmen, representatives from NGO's and community based organisations and residents from communities living along the road. Letters stating the objectives of the project and requesting local participation and consultation in the process were also distributed. Responses from the consultations and interviews provided the relevant background information and helped identify major environmental concerns of the communities along the road for preparation of this environmental impact statement. 8.2. Key Presentations, Questions and Concerns from the Community Consultative Meetings During public consultative meetings with the local communities, the environmental team gave presentations on the project and also received the questions/concerns from the community on issues that should be considered and investigated in the detailed EIA. The key questions/ concerns are contained in the Scoping Report (July 2003) reviewed, commented and approved by the Environmental Council of Zambia. These discussions were centred on: * The road and its surroundings (land-use, natural resources, water, etc.) * The most important features (market places, gathering sites, schools, clinics, quarries, borrow pits, access and feeder roads, etc.) * Sensitive areas (protected areas, graveyards, historical sites, etc.) I Where should construction materials be taken from/or not taken from? * Employment opportunities * Road accidents and where are the black spots? * Benefits (increased trade and transport) and inconveniences (illegal timber trade, poaching, increased traffic) * Positive or negative experiences with other contractors 8.3. Community Concerns The key community concerns from the public consultative meetings are summarised below and proposed mitigation measures are elaborated in the chapters on mitigation measures and environmental management plan. -28 - Envi .tal Infatem)he Lmhiru-Ad Table 8.1: Community Concerns MAJOR COMMUNITIES ALONG LUSAKA-CHIRUNDU ROAD Community Concerns Kafue Community Chirundu Community Concern as to whether the much-talked about road will be Road site & its surroundings Concern as to what will happen to communities living along separate from the existing one. road reserve area. Concern as to what will happen to settlements along the project area. Concern of illegal sand mining activities. Lack of consultation between contractor and local community Quarries & borrow pits Abandoned borrow pits pose hazards to the nearby on the sites for excavation of laterite community. Siting of construction camps Abstraction of water from local Concern that over exploitation of local water sources for road sources. rehabilitation works might lead to water shortage to the local community. Investigate the role of the Labour Department in the Concern that employment opportunity for local people should Employment opportunities recruitment of local people. not be restricted to unskilled labour but also skilled labour. Increased incidences of sensitization programme on HIV/AIDS, other diseases and HIV/AIDS on project workers. pregnancies. Sensitive Areas Concern that Chirundu Fossil Forest Monument may be destroyed. Investigate the flooding at Kaseba/Nangongwe area, which Drainage design/Culverts occur during heavy rainfall. Investigate the black spot areas known as Four Nyau, Kapili Road accidents & black-spots Ngozi, Red Paint and Chibaketi on the Chirundu road. Investigate the black spot area at Kabanana 16km from Chirundu. Concern that lack of adequate lay-bys on the existing Chirundu road lead to driver exhaustion and accidents. - 29 - MEnvir"Iental Imtateme the Lua ahirun uad Table of Community Concerns (Cont'd) MAJOR COMMUNITIES ALONG LUSAKA-CHIRUNDU ROAD Community Concerns Kafue Community Chirundu Community Road accidents & black-spots Investigate the possibilities of making tunnels through the (Cont'd) hills to achieve a straight and level road in black spot places. Project benefits to the local Concern that the project benefits to the local people are not community. known. Detour, by-pass, Lay-bys and access roads Concern that the roles of the District Council & the Concern that the duration for road rehabilitation project and District/Community role in the community at project implementation level are not known. the cost of rehabilitation are not known. project - 30 - Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road 9. POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS Rehabilitation of the Lusaka-Chirundu road will adversely affect the environment and the communities in the immediate surroundings of the construction site. Many of these impacts will arise not only at the construction site but also at quarries, borrow pits and materials storage areas serving the project. In addition, adverse environmental and socio-cultural impacts will occur during construction as a result of air and soil pollution from asphalt plants, dust, noise from construction equipment and blasting; fuel and oil spills, trash and garbage; and the presence of non-resident labour forces. 9.1. Impacts on Land and Soil 9.1.1. Construction Phase In this phase dust raised from gravel access roads by haulage trucks while transporting laterite, stone aggregate, cement, lime, petroleum products and other chemicals may change the soil structure. This impact is considered insignificant. Soil contamination will be caused by leakages from the asphalt plant operations, poor handling of petroleum products such as oil and fuel spillage during dispensing as well as improper disposal of used oils, hydraulic fluids, toxic and empty oil containers. Within the construction phase some activities involving site installation, stock piles preparation, quarrying, construction of detours, access roads, plant park sites and drainage excavation will cause soil destabilisation. Soil compaction by plant machinery and vehicles movement will lead to reduced groundwater yields. 9.1.2. Operational Phase Abandoned excess laterite and stone aggregate littered around stock pile areas after construction is completed change the soil structure in the surrounding areas. Similarly devegetated areas resulting from post excavation and grading works including drainage channels enhance soil erosion on discharge areas. 9.2. Impacts on Vegetation 9.2.1. Construction Phase The vegetation to be affected most is that which is confined to the road reserve and where gravel pits will be established. Plant taxa most likely to be affected are those found in the five vegetation types outlined Section 5.1 above. The ecological value of the inundated forests and woodlands to the riverine ecosystem cannot be ignored in that such vegetation stands contain several niches for diversity of animal species. Should the design of the road rehabilitation confine the extent of land clearing to the limits of the road -31 - Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road reserve, then this will not affect vegetation in the outlying areas. However, trees within the road reserve should be preserved for ecological and aesthetic reasons Dust raised from gravel access roads by haulage trucks during the transportation of laterite, stone aggregate, cement, lime, petroleum products and other chemicals including emissions from plant machinery and vehicles hamper normal growth of roadside vegetation. Similarly Poor disposal of toxic waste and petroleum products hampers normal growth of vegetation. Loss of vegetation in this phase is caused by activities related to clearing of sites for installation of works, clearing of the quarry site, preparation of stock pile area, construction of detours, access roads and park sites and the demand for fuelwood by labour force. 9.2.2. Operational Phase Laterite dust and littered stone aggregate from the excess construction material left after road works will hinder normal vegetation growth around the stockpile areas. Lusaka-Chirundu road is famous for timber trading. Therefore over the life of the road, an indirect impact could be an increase in illegal felling and sale of trees for timber, fuel wood and charcoal along this road caused by improved accessibility. 9.3. Impacts on Wildlife and Wildlife Habitats 9.3.1. Construction Phase The impacts on wildlife along the Lusaka-Chirundu road are considered insignificant since the road does not pass through a National Park. 9.3.2. Operational Phase Impacts on wildlife are considered insignificant, as the road does not pass through a National Park. 9.4. Impacts on Water Quality 9.4.1. Construction Phase During construction phase, the bridges, side drains, mitre drains and culverts will require cleaning, de-silting, reshaping and repair. Some of the drains and culverts might be prone to soil erosion, which will result in siltation of nearby watercourses. Also impacts on water quality may be caused by contaminated run-off of petroleum product spillages, leakages from storage areas and heavy vehicles, improper disposal of used oils and from hydraulic fluids which enters the nearby surface water sources. Similarly, easily eroded destabilised soils may be washed into surface water sources and cause siltation and sedimentation which will reduce the water quality. Activities that will give rise -32 - Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road to this impact include construction of detours, access roads, drainage channels, excavation and grading works. During construction phase water will be needed for various purposes such as for watering down the dust. Abstraction of water in large quantities from local sources may lead to water shortage to the local community. This impact is considered significant. In some section of the road, labour force will put up temporary camps and will require sanitation facility such as pit latrines. Construction of sub-standard pit latrines for campsite labour force will contaminate groundwater due to seepage to the groundwater. 9.4.2. Operational Phase Excess construction material left after construction works may be washed into the water sources and lead to sedimentation of water sources and lowering of the water quality. Erosion of bare areas resulting from excavation and grading works and construction of drainage channels may increase runoff which will lead to sedimentation and increased turbidity in surface water as well as reduced groundwater infiltration. Further hazardous materials spilled from haulage vehicles and washed into water sources will result in water pollution. 9.5. Impacts on Air Quality 9.5.1. Construction Phase During construction phase large amounts of soil will be excavated and transported. The machinery used for excavation will generate dust, which can be dispersed by the wind affecting a zone of up to 1 00m around the excavation. Emissions to the air in form of exhaust fumes and dust from vehicles and machines including operations from the asphalt plant may cause nuisance to the closest surroundings. Dust raised from gravel access roads by haulage trucks during transportation of materials will also pollute the air of the immediate local environment. 9.5.2. Operational Phase Impact on air quality in the operational phase is likely to come from increased vehicular traffic flows which proportionately discharge emissions to the air. Also loose soils on cleared areas may be blown off during strong winds and raise dust particulate matter, which may affect the quality of the air. -33 - Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road 9.6. Impacts of Noise 9.6.1. Construction Phase During construction phase heavy machinery will be used for the excavation of soil. The machines are noisy and will cause a certain degree of nuisance to the surrounding environment. The noise levels of machines and vehicles vary widely and depend on the type of noise generated and level of activity. A front end loader has for instance a power level of lOOdB(A) while a truck will have a power level of 85 dB(A). In the worst case a combined power level of 115 dB(A) will be in place during construction which will result in the 50 dB(A) contour being located at a maximum 250m from the construction site. However since the equipment will never work at exactly the same location the 50 dB(A) contour will be confined to the construction site and within the road reserve area. Some common impacts of noise nuisance include annoyance, sleep disturbance and interference with communication. Acceptable levels of noise are regarded to be 40 dB(A) during the night and 50 dB(A) during the day. Since construction will take place during the day only the 50 dB(A) level is of importance. 9.6.2. Operational Phase During operational phase the source of noise is expected to come from increased traffic and heavy vehicles using the rehabilitated road. 9.7. Impacts on Landscape and Aesthetics 9.7.1. Construction Phase Generation of dust during quarrying, equipment movement including land clearing for stockpiles as well as reshaping during detour, access roads and park site construction distorts the natural landscape and may degrade areas of scenic beauty. Further extensive excavations and dumping of stripped top soils in scenic area spoils the beauty of the areas. 9.7.2. Operational Phase Abandoned structures, which are left near areas of scenic after construction works, excess construction materials of laterite, stone aggregate and concrete slabs left in areas of scenic beauty reduces the quality scenery. 9.8. Impacts on Land-use and Surrounding Environment 9.8.1. Construction Phase The land-use along the road is characterised by residential, industrial, agricultural activity and forests areas. Since there are no plans to widen or upgrade the road, major impacts are not anticipated to the surrounding -34 - Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road environment. The only source of impact expected is generation of dust by vehicles using detours and access roads. However, this activity will be confined to the road reserve areas and therefore the impact can be minimised through a programme, which ensures dust control such as regular watering down the dust roads. 9.8.2. Operational Phase Increased traffic will entail a proportionate increase in exhaust fumes and will have an impact to the immediate surrounding environment. 9.9. Impacts on Socio-economic Environment 9.9.1. Construction Phase During this phase skilled and unskilled labour will be required. Project areas are characterised by high level of unemployment and low level of skills and employment opportunities will therefore increase the positive benefits for the local people who are in dire need of income for sustenance. Furthermore, indirect opportunities for employment will arise from the provision of services to the construction teams, such as sale of food and beverages. In this sense the construction of road may have a positive impact on the employment situation in the nearby communities. This impact is considered to be positive. 9.9.2. Operational Phase Socio-economic benefits provided by road rehabilitation project will include all-weather road reliability, reduced transportation costs, increased access to markets for local produce and products, better access to health care and other social services. The National/ Regional Economy Road transport is the dominant form of transport in land locked Zambia. It accounts for the majority of passenger and freight transport (excluding pedestrian transport) and provides the only access to many communities. From a national standpoint maintaining and improving this road is important in terms of communication between Zambia and its neighbours in Southern Africa. From a regional perspective the road is one of the most important route- connecting Central and Southern Provinces and a gateway to the Copperbelt Province. Thus, an improved road will have a significant positive impact on the economic activities in the region. -35 - Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road 9.10. Impacts on Cultural and Historic Sites 9.10.1.Construction Phase Within the Lusaka-Chirundu road lies the Chirundu National Fossil Forest Monument. The site is protected under the National Heritage Conservation Commission Act. The monument is located within the road reserve area. The impacts likely to affect the site are due to dust generation from haulage trucks and vehicles using detour and access roads. The dust will settle on the site and is likely to disfigure its outlook. Other activities that may also lead to this impact include location of stockpile. In addition construction of detours, access roads and campsites can destroy the site and may lead to loss of cultural heritage. 9.10.2.Operational Phase No additional negative impacts on cultural values are foreseen during operational phase. 9.11. Impacts on Human Settlements 9.11.1.Construction Phase Since there are no plans to widen or upgrade the road, there will be no demolition, relocation or resettlement. Moreover construction work will be confined to the road reserve area. The potential impact is considered insignificant. 9.11.2.Operational Phase No direct correlation was determined between migration and improved road. No additional negative impacts on human settlements are foreseen during operational phase. 9.12. Impacts of Quarries and Borrow Pits 9.12.1.Construction Phase During construction phase, a number of quarries and borrow pits along the route will be opened up. Potential impacts include vegetation clearance and landscape scars resulting from the absence of re-vegetation programmes and poor excavation techniques. Extraction of construction materials from quarries and borrow pits could generate excessive noise caused by blasting, movement of machinery and labourers and thus impact on the nearby communities. Also increased air pollution due to diesel fumes and dust generation resulting from the presence of construction machinery and site clearing activities. Quarries and borrow pits impact on the visual and aesthetic view. The excavated areas become prone to soil erosion during rain season and can contaminate nearby surface water. -36 - Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road 9.12.2.Operational Phase Quarries and borrow pits left abandoned after construction works could be a potential hazard to ecology and nearby communities. Transmission of diseases, such as malaria and their vector can occur in stagnant water collected in abandoned borrow pits. Malaria that is transmitted by the anopheles mosquito and diarrhoea are both water-related diseases. Thus the potential impact from poor extraction techniques and lack of re-vegetation programmes is considered significant. Further if the quarries and borrow pits are sited nearby communities the pits could become habitats for dangerous creatures such as snakes, which can easily attack unsuspecting children playing in these abandoned quarries and borrow pits. 9.13. Impacts of Road Traffic 9.13.1.Construction Phase Construction traffic could negatively impact on undisturbed areas adjacent to the proposed route. The construction process could impede momentum of the existing traffic flow and may lead to the use of use improvised detours by other motorists, which may compromise with safety of pedestrians if not properly planned. 9.13.2.Operational Phase The traffic intensity on the road is likely to increase once the rehabilitation is complete and the road become operational. The additional flow may cause an increased number of accidents on the road. This additional flow could be as a result of people going for holiday to Siavonga pleasure resort or traffic connecting to neighbouring countries in Southern Africa. This increase in traffic may cause an increase in the number of accidents. The types of accidents include those involving vehicles, bicycles and pedestrians. However, improved sight lines and replacement of road furniture will reduce some accidents. Overall, the potential impact of an increase in accidents is considered significant and negative. 9.14. Impacts of Work Accidents 9.14.1.Construction Phase During the construction phase heavy machinery will be employed. Heavy machines make a lot of noise, cause carbon dioxide emissions and generate dust and may cause accidents among operators if not handled properly. This is likely to have negative impact on health of the workers. To limit the risk of accidents, safety procedures will be put in place and enforced by the foreman to ensure that vehicles and machinery only drive in designated places by authorised personnel. -37 - Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road 9.14.2.Operational Phase As the road rehabilitation project would have completed there will be no workers on site and there will be no more impact from this phase. 9.15. Impacts of Construction Camps 9.15.1.Construction Phase Construction of camps will require clearance of vegetation and this will result in loss of vegetation along the route. In addition waste will be produced at the camps including sewage and petroleum product waste. The potential impacts are significant and negative. During construction phase, the construction teams will interact with the nearby communities and can cause social upheaval and transmit diseases (STDs, H1V/AIDS) to the communities living along the route. However since the road has been in existence for a number of years, it is likely that the community has been exposed to most social change. The impact is therefore considered moderate and negative. 9.15.2.Operational Phase At the end of the rehabilitation project, construction camps will either be demolished or handed over to the nearby communities and therefore the potential impact in this phase is considered insignificant. -38 - Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road 10. EVALUATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS Any road project affects the environment and community through which it passes. The objective of this section is to predict and to assess these potential impacts of road rehabilitation to modem standard highway and to recommend mitigating measures to be incorporated into the project design. The assessment of the issues has been conducted according to a synthesis of criteria required by the integrated environmental management procedure defined as follows: 10.1. Nature of Impact This is an appraisal of the type of effect the proposed activity would have on the affected environmental component. Its description should include what is being affected and in what way. 10.2. Direct Impact An impact that appears immediately as a result of an activity of the project. For example, the loss of forest habitat is a direct impact of logging. 10.3. Indirect Impact An impact that is related to the project but that arises from an activity of the project at a secondary level. For example, building a new road may cause indirect impacts on the local economy of a village by increasing accessibility to other markets. 10.4. Spatial Extent The physical and spatial size of the impact. It is a description of whether the impact would occur on a scale described as follows: * Site, the impact could affect the whole or measurable portion of the site. Whether it is limited to the immediate area of the proposed project; * Local, the impact could affect the extended area adjacent to the site perhaps a neighbourhood or small town. Whether it would affect environs up to 15km outside the immediate environment; * Regional, that impact could affect the area including the outlying areas of the city, the transport routes and the adjoining towns. * National, the impact could be as far reaching international boundaries. 10.5. Duration The lifetime of the impact; this is measured in the context of the life-time of the proposed development. -39 - Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road * Short term, the impact will either disappear with mitigation or will be mitigated through natural process in a span shorter than the construction phase. * Medium term, the impact will last for the period of the construction phase, thereafter it will be entirely negated. 3 Long term, the impact will continue or last for the entire operational of the development, but will be mitigated by direct human action or by natural processes thereafter. * Permanent, the only class of impact which will be non-transitory. Mitigation either by man or natural process will not occur in such a way or in such a time span that the impact can be considered transient. 10.6. Intensity A description of whether or not the intensity (magnitude) of the impact would be high, medium, low or negligible (no impact). An attempt will be made to quantify the impacts on components of the affected environment will be described as follows: Is the impact destructive, or benign? Does it destroy the impacted environment, alter its functioning, or slightly alter it? These are rated as follows: * Low, where the impact will not have significant influence on the environment, and this will not be required to be significantly accommodated in the project design or implementation; the impact alters the affected environment in such a way that natural processes of functions are not affected in any significant way. * Moderate, where it could have an adverse influence on the environment which would require modification of the project design or alternative implementation schedules; The affected environment is altered, however, function and process continue, albeit in a modified way. * High, where it could have significant influence on the environment but cannot be mitigated or be accommodated by the project environment by introducing alternative mitigation measures such as realignment at a particular stretch or adoption of different design measures. Function or process of the environment is disturbed to the extent where it temporarily or permanently ceases. This will be a relative evaluation within the context of all the activities and the other impacts within the framework of the project. Note that some impacts have a high intensity and a short duration with no permanent audio effects. -40 - Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road 10.7. Probability This describes the likelihood of the impacts actually occurring. The impact may occur for any length of time during the life cycle of the activity, and not at any given time. The classes are rated as follows: * Unlikely, the probability of the impact occurring is very low, due to either the circumstances, design or experience. * Possible, the impact could possibly happen, and mitigation planning should be undertaken. * Probable, it is most likely that the impact will occur at some or other stage of the development. Plans must be drawn up before the undertaking of the activity. * Definite, the impact will take place regardless of any prevention plans, and only mitigatory actions or contingency plans can be relied on to contain the effect. 10.8. Determination of Significance Significance is determined through a synthesis of impact characteristics or combination of effects. Significance is an indication of the importance of the impact in terms of physical extent, intensity and time scale, and therefore indicates the level of mitigation required. The classes are rated as follows: * Negligible, the impact is not substantial and does not require any mitigatory action. * Low, the impact is of little importance, but may require limited mitigation. * Moderate, the impact is of importance and therefore considered to have mitigation. Mitigation is required to reduce the negative impacts to acceptable levels or positive impacts maximised. * High, the impact is of great importance. Failure to mitigate, with the objective of reducing the impact to acceptable levels, could render the entire development option or entire project proposal unacceptable. Mitigation is therefore essential. Positive impacts should be enhanced as a priority. From the baseline information assembled in the previous chapter coupled with the information gained during the consultation stage, the expected environmental impacts can be categorised into positive and negative impacts. In addition, it is important to consider the duration of the impact and at what phase of the project it occurs, i.e. impacts during the rehabilitation phase or impacts over the life of the road (operational phase) and whether the impacts -41 - Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road are direct (i.e. removal of vegetation) or indirect (increased deforestation as a result of the improved road). The direct impacts would be experienced mainly during the rehabilitation process, and include effects on the physical environment, health and safety of the residents along the road and the construction workers during the rehabilitation phase. The indirect impacts are primarily socio-economic and extend beyond the project implementation. The indirect impacts include changes in economic activities and long-term changes, such as increased land degradation due to increased settlement and development along the road. Unlike the direct impacts, which occur in the immediate environment, the indirect impacts would be felt in the adjacent regions. -42 - m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m - m Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road Table 10.1: Table of Evaluated Impacts: Phase Impact Type of Spatial Duration Intensity Probability Determination Impact Extent of Significance Impacts on Soil Design None n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a Change in soil texture due to accumulation of Direct Site Medium Low Unlikely Negligible foreign dust particles falling from haulage trucks. term Soil contamination due to improper storage of Medium materials, fuels and poor waste oil disposal Direct Site term Moderate Probable Moderate Construction methods. Exposed soil is prone to erosion by water or wind. Direct Site Medium Moderate Probable Moderate term Stripping and stockpiling of topsoil could lead to Direct Site Medium Moderate Probable Moderate erosion and degradation of soil quality. term Soil compaction could result following Direct Site Medium Moderate Probable Moderate construction activities. term Soil erosion near culverts and drainage channels Indirect Local Long tern Moderate Possible Moderate Operational where water velocity could increase. Soil contamination by waste and spillages of road Indirect Local Long term Moderate Possible Moderate users and un-maintained vehicles. Impacts on Vegetation Design None n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a Construction Retardation of vegetation growth due to Medium contamination from dust particles and gas Direct Local term Low Unlikely Moderate emissions. Loss of vegetation due to site clearing which will Medium lead to loss of habitat and displacement of fauna Direct Local term Moderate Probable High species, especially avifauna. - 43 - Envirmental Im-atatem" - the Lsa-Chirun.ad Table of Evaluated Impacts: Phase Impact Type of Spatial Duration Intensity Probability Determination Impact Extent of Significance Impacts on Vegetation (Cont'd) Operational Increased access as a result of the road Indirect Site Long term Low Possible Moderate improvement could lead to increased deforestation on the road. . Impacts on Wildlife and Wildlife Habitat Design None n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a Construction Disturbance to birds and animals and loss of Direct Site Long term Moderate Possible Moderate habitat. Operational Wildlife loss due to accidental killings caused by Indirect Site Long term Moderate Possible Moderate speeding as a result of improved road. Disruption to wildlife routes due to quarries and borrow pits left in wildlife areas without Direct Local Long term Moderate Possible Moderate rehabilitation. Noise disturbance to wildlife due to increased Indirect Site Long term Moderate Possible Moderate traffic. Impacts on Water Quality Design None n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a Construction Siltation of water courses due to soil erosion of Indirect Local Long term Moderate Probable Moderate nearby drains and culverts. Water shortage to the local community due to over Direct Local Medium High Possible High exploitation by the project activities. term Ground water contamination due to construction Indirect Site Long term Moderate Probable Moderate of sub-standard campsite pit latrines for workers. Operational Sedimentation and increased turbidity in surface water caused by erosion of bare areas and runoffs Indirect Local Long term Moderate Possible Moderate resulting from excavation and grading works and drainage channels left after construction works. - 44 - - m - m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road Table of Evaluated Impacts: Phase [ P Impact | Typeof |ISpatial Duration Intensity Probability Determination Phase____ l _ Impact T Extent Dulalio of Significance Impacts on Air Quality Design None n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a Air pollution caused by diesel fumes and dust from excavators, bull dozers, graders and as well Direct Local Short term Moderate Probable Moderate Construction as site clearing will affect human, vegetation and also disturb habitats for birds and insects. Unpleasant odours due to un-maintained toilets Direct Site Short term Moderate Probable Moderate and poor waste management. Operational Excessive diesel fumes due to un-maintained Indirect Site Long term Moderate Possible Moderate equipment. Impacts on Noise Design None n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a Construction Noise and vibration caused by construction Direct Site Short term Moderate Probable Moderate machinery, equipment and drilling. Operational Noise from increased traffic. Indirect Site Long term Low Possible Low Impacts on Landscape and Aesthetics Visual impact of the road rehabilitation could be Design substantial if designs do not consider the slope of n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a the surrounding environment. Construction Disfigurement of the natural landscape and Direct Site Moderate Moderate Definite Moderate aesthetic view due to construction works. Abandoned construction structures, excess Operational construction materials of laterite, stone aggregate Direct Site Moderate Low Probable Moderate and concrete slabs left in areas of scenic beauty reduces the quality of scenery. - 45 - Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road Table of Evaluated Impacts: Phase | Impact | Type of Spatial Duration Intensity Probability Determination l I Impact Extent of Significance Impacts on Land-use and surrounding environment Design The proposed road might influence migration and settlement patterns if labour requirements are not n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a planned in advance. Construction of temporary detours will disturb the environment within the immediate and Direct Local Short term Moderate Possible Moderate Construction surrounding environment. If labour is not recruited from local areas people who reside far may start to settle near the road Indirect Local Short term Moderate Probable Moderate project.. Operational Exhaust fumes to the surrounding environment Indirect Site Long term Low Possible Low due to increased traffic. Impacts on Socio-economic Environment Design Temporary marriages, casual sex relationships and Construction more chances of transmission of sexually diseases Indirect Local Short term Moderate Probable Moderate due to interaction of project workers with local communities. Operational Increased road accidents due to increased traffic Indirect Site Long term Moderate Possible Moderate and speeding on black spots areas. Impacts of Cultural and Historic Sites Design Poorly developed road design could impact n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a negatively on heritage sites. Dust may disfigure the appearance of the site Indirect Site Short term Moderate Probable Moderate Construction Construction of detour next to the site may lead to loss of the heritage site. The Chirundu Fossil Direct Site Long term Moderate Probable Moderate Forest Monument is within the road reserve area. Operational None n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a - 46 - Env_ntal I taten_the LiChirui ad m m m m m - Table of Evaluated Impacts: Phase Impact Typeof Spatial Duration Intensity Probability Determination Impact Extent of Signiflcance Impacts on Human Settlements Design None n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a Construction No negative impacts on human settlements are foreseen since construction works will be confined n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a to the road reserve. Operational None n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a Impacts of Quarries and Borrow Pits Design Quarries and borrow pit location may negatively Direct Site Medium Moderate Probable Moderate impact on important ecological units. termr Construction Excessive noise from blasting, machinery may Direct Local Medium Moderate Definite Moderate disturb nearby conununities. term Operational Un-rehabilitated borrow pits could pose potential Indirect Local Long term Moderate Possible Moderate hazard to ecological units and residents. Impacts of Road Traffic Failure to use established routes might result in Design surveyors' vehicles negatively impacting on the Direct Local Short term Low Possible Moderate environment. Construction Construction traffic could impact on undisturbed Indirect Local Medium Moderate Probable Moderate areas adjacent to the proposed route. term Excessive dust from construction could disturb Direct Site Short term Low Probable Moderate nearby communities. Operational Increased accidents due to increased traffic flow. Indirect Site Long tern Moderate Possible Low Impacts of Work Accidents Design Advanced planning of safety requirements T n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a Construction Lack of safety and health regulations could impact Direct Site Medium High Low Moderate negatively on construction wor . l l Operational None n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a - 47 - EnviTonmental I ttatem7 the Lusaka-ChiruRad Table of Evaluated Impacts: Phase Impact Type of Spatial Duration Intensity Probability Determination Impact Extent of Significance Impacts of Construction Camps Design Advanced planning of construction camp siting. n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a Loss of vegetation at construction site. Direct Site Short term Moderate Probable Low Waste generation. Indirect Site Short term Low Probable Moderate Construction Interaction of construction workers with the nearby communities may lead to transmission of Indirect Site Short term Moderate Probable Moderate sexually transmitted diseases. Operational None n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a -48 - Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road 11. MITIGATION MEASURES This section proposes mitigation measures for identified potential impacts as discussed in earlier chapters. Mitigation measures are actions that are intended to avoid, alleviate or reduce environmental impacts on the environment. Mitigation measures form a basis on which an Environmental Management Plan has been formulated. The mitigation measures are set forth to maximise positive impacts and minimise negative impacts as a result of the proposed development. Table of Mitigation Measures Phase Impact Mitigation Measure Impacts on Land and Soil * Petroleum products dispensing Soil contamination due to points shall have drip pans; improper storage of Imaterials, fuels and poor Storage of potential pollutants such waste oil disposal as fuel, oil and chemicals should be methods. done on sealed surfaces to prevent soil contamination; * Collection and recycling of used oil & lubricants; Petroleum storage tanks shall have bund walls around and shall be Construction high enough to contain any Phase spillage. Limitation of earth moving to dry periods; Protection of susceptible soil Exposed soil is prone to surface with mulch; erosion by water or wind. . Protection of drainage channels by stone pitching; . Installation of sedimentation basins or planting of erodible surfaces as soon ass possible. Stripping and stockpiling * Exposed soil should be avoided by of topsoil could lead to selective soil stripping; erosion and degradation of . Areas requiring less clearing shall SOIl quality. be preferred for stock piles. Clearing shall be limited to the site approved by the local authorities. Soil compaction could * Only heavy equipment with result following pneumatic tyres shall be used on construction activities. access roads. * Soil erosion should be prevented Operational Soil erosion near culverts especially near culverts by Phase and drainage channels construction of correctly designed where water velocity could culverts; increase. . Regular maintenance of culverts & drainage channels; * ECZ Regulation of waste disposal; -49 - Environmental Impact Statement for the Lusaka-Chirundu Road I~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Table of Mitigation Measures Phase I Impact Mitigation Measure Impacts on Soil (Cont'd) Soil contamination by waste . Law enf