43448-014: Bagmati River Basin Improvement …...Initial Environmental Examination Project No.: 43448-014 April 2019 Nepal: Bagmati River Basin Improvement Project Additional Financing

Initial Environmental Examination

Project No.: 43448-014

April 2019

Nepal: Bagmati River Basin Improvement Project

� Additional Financing (1 of 2)

Prepared by the Ministry of Urban Development, Government of Nepal for the Asian Development

Bank.

The Initial Environmental Examination Report is a document of the borrower. The views

expressed herein do not necessarily represent those of ADB's Board of Directors, Management,

or staff, and may be preliminary in nature.

In preparing any country program or strategy, financing any project, or by making any designation

of or reference to a territory or geographic area in this document, the Asian Development Bank

does not intend to make any judgments as to the legal or other status of any territory or area.

Initial Environmental Examination Report, April 2019 ii

CURRENCY EQUIVALENTS

(as of 3 April 2019)

Currency unit � Nepalese rupee/s (NRe/NRs) NRe 1.00 = $0.009045

$1.00 = NRe110.5525

Abbreviations

ADB � Asian Development Bank AEP � Annual Exceedance Probability

BRF � Bagmati River Festival

BRBIP � Bagmati River Basin Improvement Project BOD � Biochemical Oxygen Demand COD � Chemical Oxygen Demand DHM � Department of Hydrology and Meteorology

DO � Dissolved Oxygen DOI � Department of Irrigation

DFO � District Forest Officer

DSCWM � Department of Soil Conservation and Watershed

Management EA � Executing Agency

EARF � Environmental Assessment and Review Framework EHS � Environmental Health & Safety EIA � Environmental Impact Assessment

EMP � Environmental Management Plan EPA � Environment Protection Act EPR � Environment Protection Rules GDP � Gross Domestic Product

GIS � Geographical Information System

GRM � Grievance Redress Mechanism HFL � Highest flood level

HPCIDBC � High Powered Commission for Integrated

Development for Bagmati Civilization IEE � Initial Environmental Examination IFC � International Finance Corporation

IWRM � Integrated Water Resources Management KUKL � Kathmandu Upatyaka Khampani Limited

KUSMS � Kathmandu University School of Medical Sciences

KVDA � Kathmandu Valley Development Authority MoEF � Ministry of Environment & Forests

MPPW � Ministry of Planning and Public Works MOFSC � Ministry of Forest and Soil Conservation

NAMS � National Academy of Medical Sciences

Initial Environmental Examination Report, April 2019 iii

NEA � Nepal Electricity Authority NGO � Non-Governmental Organisation

NSET � National Society for Earthquake Technology

NRCT � Nepal River Conservation Trust

NAAQS � National Ambient Air Quality Standards

OCHA � United Nations Office for Coordination of Humanitarian affairs

PMU � Project Management Unit

PIU � Project Implementation Unit

PMCSC � Project Management Construction and Supervision Consultant

PPE � Personal Protective Equipment

RSPM � Respiratory Suspended Particulate Matter RBO � River Basin Organisation REA � Rapid Environmental Assessment SPS � Safeguard Policy Statement, 2009

TA � Technical Assistance NSET � National Society for Earthquake Technology

NRCT � Nepal River Conservation Trust

WECS � Water and Energy Commission Secretariat WHO � World Health Organisation

WWTP � Waste Water Treatment Plant

Notes

(i) The fiscal year (FY) of the Government of Nepal ends on 15 July.

(ii) In this report, "$" refers to US dollars

Initial Environmental Examination Report, April 2019 6

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

1.1. Introduction and Project Background

1. Bagmati River runs through the Kathmandu Valley in Nepal. It is considered as Holy River by both Hindus and Buddhist. Various Ghats, cremation Ghats, temple of great cultural and religious value are located along the bank of Bagmati River. Other than the religious importance the river is lifeline of the city of Kathmandu as it meets the water supply need of the city and irrigation water requirement of the entire Kathmandu valley. Quality of the Bagmati river water is deteriorated badly over the years due to disposal of sewage and solid waste. Further planning of water supply system, river/bank protection system, bridges development, irrigation water supply system is developed independently on the river without proper coordination and synchronization which has led to minimal flow of the water in river especially during dry season.

2. ADB approved the Bagmati River Basin Improvement Project on 31 October 2013 (current project)1 to support the government and the civil society initiatives to improve water management and the river environment in the upper BRB.

3. The Government of Nepal with the support of Asian Bank Development (ADB) has initiated the Bagmati River Basin Improvement Project (BRBIP) in 2013 to protect the Bagmati River. The project is launched with ambit of enhancing the water resources and water quality of the river, accelerating the economic growth of the country and living standard of the people. The additional financing is required to scale-up the current project including consolidation of water management institutions, expansion of riverbank beautification works, riverine community mobilization and the design, build and operation of a wastewater treatment plant (WWTP). The additional financing is also required to meet the cost overruns to the current project with which performance is on track. As per ADB Safeguard Policy Statement, 2009 (SPS), the additional financing is categorized as category B in environment as none of the anticipated impacts due to the project are of irreversible, diverse or unprecedented in nature.

4. Components of additional financing includes (i) landscaping activities and beautification works of Bagmati River in different stretches (Uttar Gaya, Gokarna, Guheshwari, Thapathali to Balkhu), (ii) Construction of wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) at Tukucha and (iii) Restoration and reconstruction of the archaeological (Cultural heritage) monuments along Thapathali to Balkhu.

1.2 Policy, Legal and Administrative Framework

5. The Government of Nepal has a well-established environmental legal framework. Various laws and policies are available for protection of the environment, ecology and socio-economy. Most important environmental acts/rules are Environment Protection Act (EPA) of 1997 and the Environment Protection Rules (EPR) also of 1997 and with Amendments in 2007. Applicable environmental legislations of Government of Nepal to the project are listed below in Table 1.

1 The current project is financed by an Asian Development Fund loan of $25.5 million equivalent (Loan 3057-NEP,

�� n Development Fund grant of $4.5 million (Grant 0367-NEP), along with $0.5 million (approximately co-financing from the Multi-donor trust fund under the Water Financing Partnership Facility), and was declared effective in February 2014.


Table 1: Aplicable Environmental Legislations of the Government of Nepal

S. No. Environmental Safeguard

Applicability Agency

Acts/Laws/Rules 1 Environmental Protection

Act, 1997, GON Environment protection Rules, 1997

Applicable due to project activities in Pashupati Heritage area (Landscaping activity around Guheshwari temple area located in Pashupati Nath Temple heritage area)

Ministry of Environment & Forests

2 Soil and Watershed Conservation Act, 1982

Applicable The project site lies within the Bagmati River Basin area.


3 Ancient Monument Protection Act, 2013 (1956 A.D.) Basic guidelines for the conservation and reconstruction of earthquake damaged heritage 2072 (2015)

Applicable Large no. of archaeological monuments within 100 m of RoW of river. Pashupati Nath temple is UNESCO World Heritage Site. Permission should be taken from archaeological department prior to carrying out project activities in vicinity of these monuments and heritage site (Landscaping activity around Guheshwari temple area located in Pashupati Nath Temple heritage area)

Department of Archaeology

4 Aquatic Animals Protection Act, 1961

Applicable. No permission as such is required. The project has direct interface with the Bagmati River which supports aquatic life as well. At present aquatic life is zero in project area. Measures are incorporated to support the aquatic life once project is implemented to support the aquatic life in line with the intent of this notification.

Local Authority (Chief District Officer of District)

5 Labour Rules (1993) Applicable Contractor has to comply with the requirement primarily.

Labour Department

6 Solid Waste (Management and Resource Mobilization) Act 2044, (1986) & Solid Waste Management Rules 2070, (2013)

Applicable. No permission as such is required. However, waste is to be managed as per the provisions of this Act and Rules.

Ministry of Environment, & Forests

Policies and Guidelines 7 National Environmental

Impact Assessment Guidelines, 1993, GON

Applicable. No permission as such is required. However, contractor or project authorities to comply with the provisions of



S. No. Environmental Safeguard

Applicability Agency

these guidelines line sourcing of borrow areas.

8 Occupational Safety and health guidelines

Applicable for DoLIDAR (Department of Local Infrastructure Development and Agriculture Roads) Project but should be referred in this project also to maintain health and safety of workers/staff/public

OSH Committee, Ministry of Federal Affairs and Local Development

9 Nepal Environmental Policy and Action Plan (NEPAP I and II), 1993/1998

Applicable The project has an interface if carrying out development in close association with the natural resources

Ministry of Environment, & Forests

10 Wetland Policy, 2003, GON

Applicable As the project is about improvement and management of the River Bagmati.

Ministry of Forest and Soil Conservation

11 Water Induced Disaster Management Policy, 2003, GON.

Applicable, Measures being taken to prevent flood and manage the flow of river by taking improvement measures like construction of stone gabion wall, Ghats, weirs etc.

Department of Water Induced Disaster Prevention

12 Integrated Water Resources Management Policy

Under consideration (not yet applicable)

Water and Energy Commission Secretariat

GON = Government of Nepal, OSH = Occupational Safety and Health.

1.3 Study Area and Period for Primary Baseline Study

6. Study area for this environmental impact assessment (EIA) is considered as 100-meter (m) radius on either side of the Bagmati Riverbank. This 100-m zone will be the area which will be most influenced due to the proposed developments. This area can also be referred as direct project influence area. Further presence of the eco-sensitive zone along the project corridor till the distance of 10 kilometers (km) has also been studied. Primary environmental baseline data generation of the proposed project area has been carried out during April to May 2018.

1.4 Baseline Conditions

7. All the project sites are within the Bagmati River Corridor. Land use of river stretches considered for study falls under the peri urban and urban category. There are Ghats, plantation, footpath, temples, archaeological monuments, roads and habitations majorly within the 100-m corridor. Various archaeological sites like more than 100-year old temples/buildings etc. fall between the Thapathali and Balkhu stretch. Major habitations in project area includes Bhumthali, Gokarneshwar, Kumairgal, Gaushala, Kupondole, Thapathali, Bhadrakali, Gusingal, Bainsighat, Rajtirtha, Pachali, Teku, Sanchal, Kuleshwar and Balkhu. Water bodies in the project area are the Bagmati, Bishnumati, Chandramati, Tukucha drain and Dhobakhola rivers. Educational institutes in project area Sanskriti school, Sahayogi Multiple College, Paragon Public School, Vishwa niketan school, Advance college of engineering and management. Hospitals in the project


area are Gokarna Public Health care, Shanti Sewa Griwa Hospital, Medanta Ortho care & Neuro care centre and Paropkar Maternity and Women Hospital. Religious forest includes Gokarna forest (religious forest), Mrigasthali forest (religious forest) and Shahid Smarak Park. List of archaeological monuments and Ghats in project area are given in Table 2. Pashupatinath Temple ��

within core zone of Pashupatinath Temple as specified by the Archaeological Department.


Table 2: List of ArchaeologicalMonuments and Ghats in Project Area

Location Archaeological sites; cultural

heritage sites; Temples & Religious Site

Ghats Fest/Festivals

Utter Gaya � Uttar Gaya temple (Uttara Bahini temple) and Kanti Bhairab Temple

� Hanuman temple

� Uttar Gaya Ghat � Nahan on various days like amavasya, purnima, okhia ��

Day

Gokarneshwor Mahadev Temple

� Gupti Ganesh Temple

� Gokarneshwar Temple

� Gokarna Ghat

� � ��

(June-July)

� Teej (Aug-Sep)

� Akchhaya tritya (April-May)

� Balachautrdesi (Nov-Dec)

� Mahashivaratri (Feb-March)

Guheshwari Temple * � Guheshwari temple

� Kirateshwar temple

� Small temples near Kirateshwar temple

� Pashupatinath temple (UNESCO site)

� Gaurighat

� Guheshwari ghat

� � ��

(June-July)

� Teej (Aug-Sep)




Thapathali to Balkhu � Hanumanthan Temple

� Gurudwara Guru Nanak Satsang

� Teen Deval Mahadev Temple

� Kuleshwar Shiva Temple

� Nawajeevan church

� Kalmochan Mahadev Temple

� Teku Dhoban Ghat

� Puret Ghat

� Bhagawatshwar Ghat

� Kalmochan Ghat Baghmati Ghat

� � ��

(June-July)

� Teej (Aug-Sep)


Location Archaeological sites; cultural heritage sites; Temples &

Religious Site


� Narayan temple

� Ram temple

� image of Ganesh

� Tripureshwor Shiva Mahadev Temple

� Shivalaya, Tripureswor

� Purat Ghat Shiva Mandir-4 shrines (Sattals)

� Shivalaya, Pachalighat

� Gopinath Mandir, Thapathali

� Gopal Mandir, Baghmati Thapathali

� Jange Hiranya Hema Narayan

� Narmadeshwar Shivalinga

� Jagannath Temple, Teku

� Bambikateswar Mahadeva, Pachalighat

� Panchalinga Mahadeva, Pachalighat

� Lakshmeshwar temple

� Lakshmi narayan temple

� Radha Krishna temple

� Kuleshwor Ganesthan temple

� Kalimata temple

� Kedarnath temple

8. Bagmati river floods almost every year. Major severe floods in river occurred in 1993, 2002 and 2004. Major river of the project area is the Bagmati River which is 7th order stream and other tributaries flowing in river within project area includes: Tokha, Budhanikantha, Sundarijal, Bishnumati, Tukucha, Dhobi Khola, Manohara, Hanumante, Balku, Godavari, Kodaku, Nakhu, Lele and Naldu.


9. Climate in the Bagmati basin varies from sub-tropical in the valley and foot slopes through warm temperate at the mid-elevation to cold temperate in the higher mountains. The mean annual temperature in subtropical region is 20oC�30oC whereas average summer temperate climatic zone has the temperature range from 28oC to 30oC and the average winter temperate climatic zone has temperature 10oC. The mean relative humidity in Kathmandu from 1981 to 2010 is 75%. Humidity is maximum in July, August and September and lowest in January. Rainfall has been recorded at about 1,400 millimetres (55.1 in) for the Kathmandu valley, and averages 1,407 millimetres (55.4 inches) for the city of Kathmandu with annual average precipitation of 1,500 mm to 2,000 mm according to the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology.

10. As per the National Society for Earthquake Technology (NSET) Nepal, Kathmandu Valley lies in Zone 4 and may receive earthquakes of intensity MMIX and above. Several large and devastating earthquakes have occurred in the past, the more recent being in 1833 (Richter magnitude 7), 1934 (Richter magnitude 8.4), 1960, 1988 and 2015.

11. Soil of Bagmati basin is fertile and the texture varies from sand and boulders at Gokarna to clay, sand and fine gravel at Balkhu. Soil of the area is slightly acidic and has pH of 6.88 to 6.9. Organic carbon and organic matter content are high in the soils. Water quality tests of the Bagmati River and the tributaries is being carried out by the Department of Environment on regular basis. As per the analysis of Bagmati River, turbidity in all the locations is higher than the standards except in Sundarijal. Total dissolved solids (TDS) at all the locations is within NDWQS standard limits. Dissolved oxygen (DO) level varies in different stretches. In upstream, DO levels are more than specified limits of NDWQS however in downstream of Gokarna, DO levels decrease drastically. DO levels are within the limits in monsoon season. River quality of Bishnumati and Dhobikhola river is poor, Turbidity at Teku is very high. DO level is also zero. Biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) and chemical oxygen demand (COD) are also very high not meeting NDWQS standards. Fecal coliform was also found to be high.

12. Stage of groundwater development in the area is very high and it is estimated that with ��

time. Groundwater quality data is referred from the existing studies and as per study groundwater is not potable and parameters like fecal coliform and turbidity are higher than prescribed standards. Ambient air quality monitoring is being carried out by the Department of Environment. As per the study, ambient air quality is not good especially during dry season. Concentration of TSP, PM10 and PM2.5 are higher than the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) in most of the monitored locations. Noise level study was carried out during baseline study and noise levels during monitoring were found within the specified World Health Organization (WHO) limits.

13. Thus, there is no very significant vegetation along the river. Flora in the project area comprise of the riverbank side and road side plantation majorly. A waste water treatment plant (WWTP) is proposed to be located at the land along the Bagmati Riverbank adjacent to Tukucha drain. There are 50-60 trees within this site area. Major forests along the Bagmati River are Gokarna forest and Mrigasthali forest. Some of the man-made established parks are UN Park and Gokarna Shaheed Park. Shivapuri Nagarjuna National Park is at approximately 3 km from Uttar Gaya Project site in North direction. Other eco-sensitive zones within 10 km includes Nagarjuna Forest reserve (5.0 km, NW), Godavari forest area (9.5 km, S), Nagarkot forest (9.5 km, E) and Suryabinayak forest.

14. Population density of Kathmandu District as per 2011 census is 1,744,240, out of which male population is 913,001 and female population is 831,239. In the period 2001-2011, the population growth rate of Nepal was 1.35 % per year. At District level, Kathmandu had the highest


population growth rate (4.78%) and at zone level, the annual population growth rate of Bagmati zone is 2.45% which is again highest. Household size of the study area varies from 3.84 to 4.25. Entire Kathmandu and Gokarna municipal areas are being provided with water supply network. But due to insufficient supply of water, various households have their own wells for tapping the water to meet water requirement. There are various schools and colleges within Kathmandu and Gokarna municipal areas. Literacy rate of the Kathmandu District is more than 86%. Healthcare in Kathmandu is the most developed in Nepal, and the city and surrounding valley is home to some of the best hospitals and clinics in the country.

1.5 Public Consultation and Disclosure

15. Stakeholder consultations were aimed at obtaining inputs about both environmental and social issues. Identified stakeholders includes local bodies, local people, Forest Department, Temple Trusts and Project implementation and execution agency. Consultations were done in form of discussions with the stakeholders to receive their inputs/suggestions on the ongoing BRBIP and the proposed additional financing. After consultation, it was found that the stakeholders are in favor of the project and believe that there will be minimal negative impact and will have positive impacts on the environment once completed. Stakeholders are concerned about air pollution and solid waste management and slow pace working of contractor. The nongovernment organizations (NGOs) believe that institutional capacity and infrastructure capacity for managing solid waste is weak. It requires specific attention. Additional solid waste disposal sites are to be developed as there is huge problem of illegal waste dumping in Bagmati River and banks area. As per archaeological department, restoration and repair will not cause any structural or aesthetic impact on heritage structures of the Pashupatinath Temple area but this should be carried out with their concurrence and suggestion, however permission is not required to undertake these works. Temple authorities wish to have solar lighting system installed under the project in their temple premises. The Ministry of Environment & Forests (MoEF) suggested to obtain environmental clearance from the ministry for working in heritage area, however clearance is not required for any other component. As per the High Powered Committee for Integrated Development of the Bagmati Civilization (HPCIDBC) project management unit (PMU), the project can be successful only if the public will be made aware about proper waste management and its impact on Bagmati River through campaigning. The Department of Environment (DoE) suggested to undertake air quality monitoring during construction phase and DFO opined that river is biologically dead already and no permission is required from them for the proposed project

16. ��

mitigation measures and environmental management plant. Key provision integrated are related to waste handling and its disposal tracking, provision of solar lighting, approvals from archaeological department and MOEF, creating environmental awareness with emphasis on solid waste management among people residing along the Baghmati River, provision of dust suppression, and safety aspects.

1.6 Environment Impact Assessment and Mitigation Measures

17. The project is considered overall as a watershed management project, as the components will benefit the entire watershed. The project is aiming at the long-term sustainable improvement of the riverine environment. The project is expected to contribute in improving river water quality, tourism, archaeological monuments, minimizing riverbank erosion, aesthetics and air quality. It is anticipated that the project will have impact majorly during the construction phase and limited anticipated impacts during operation phase. Impacts are anticipated majorly on water quality, air


quality, aesthetics, terrestrial flora, noise levels, religious and cultural activities and tourism. All the impacts anticipated during construction phase are short term and temporary but may be significant if proper mitigation measures are not taken during implementation. The impacts will reduce drastically with the mitigation measures leaving low residual impact.

18. Site for landscaping works near Guheshwari Temple falls within core zone of Pashupatinath Temple heritage site area, as specified by the Department of Archaeology. The proposed landscaping work is more of maintenance and beautification oriented. It will have no impact on heritage structure or aesthetic and is fully reversible to original conditions. The construction stage impacts are similar to landscaping activity in other location and will be short terms and site specific. The mitigation measures proposed will mitigate the minor anticipate impacts.

1.7 Environment Management Plan

19. Detailed environmental management plan (EMP) is prepared for the project, considering the key requirements of the Government of Nepal, ADB Guidelines and IFC General environment, health and safety (EHS) guidelines and EHS guidelines for civil work construction and water and sanitation. An EMP has been framed considering the mitigation measures which have been proposed while assessment of the impact for each of the affected valued environment components. The EMP provides an implementation schedule of proposed mitigation measures and institutional framework responsible for implementation of mitigation measures. It is compendium of the environment management plan, institutional framework, grievance redress mechanism (GRM), monitoring and feedback mechanism, environmental monitoring plan (EMoP) and environment management budget. Environment Action Plans are also prepared for management of labor camps, occupational health and safety of workers and waste to be generated from project. The contractor will prepare the site specific EMP based on the �� EMP for each activity involved and based on finalised designes of WWTP and get it approved from the project management construction and supervision consultant (PMCSC) for its implementation. This shall be done prior to start of construction.

20. Environment monitoring is essential component for assessing effectiveness of the environment management. Key indicators considered for environmental monitoring during construction phase includes air quality, noise levels, soil & water quality, compensatory plantation, occupational health and safety, solid waste construction vehicle condition, drinking water, community issues, sanitation, labor camps, heavy lifting machinery condition and fuel storage area and key indicators considered during operation phase includes cultural and heritage resources condition in project area, compensatory plantation, water & soil quality, aquatic ecology and solid waste.

21. Environmental and social management plan will be implemented by the environment and safety management cell of the contractor, project steering committee, executing agency and HPCIDBC. For implementation of the proposed EMP during construction, it is suggested to ��

EHS policy is essentially required to be prepared by contractor for the project and it should be approved by the PMCSC and the PMU and should be communicated to the workforce through displaying posters/bill boards/posters/glow boards and campaigning around the work site. Grievance redress system will be established at the site for the project. This includes provision of a box at each project area and the box will be labelled as grievance redressal box. Grievances can be dropped by aggrieved into this box. Also, a registered for grievance should be maintained at the site where aggrieved can register its complaint along with his details like name, contact


number and can take the reference complaint number. Grievance redress box or register will be reviewed every week and first response to the grievance to the aggrieved should be given within 10-15 days of grievance submitted. Public should be informed about the mechanism through appropriate media. For capacity building for implementation of EMP it is recommended to train staff of the contractor, PMCSC and executing agency on implementation of EMP, usage of personal protective equipment (PPE), first aid and usage of firefighting equipment. Environment safeguard documents like EMP, environment action plan, environmental standards and environment safety policy should be kept at site for reference. Proper records for usage of PPE, accidents, near-miss, grievances, audits and monitoring should be maintained at site and should be submitted to HPCIDBC every 6 months as environment and safety compliance report.

22. As part of the feedback mechanism, the PMCSC and the executing agency shall monitor project compliance based on monitoring reports, audit and inspection reports with respect to the EMP, EMoP and applicable national and international laws, rules and regulations. During construction phase contractor will report to the executing agency and the PMCSC shall monitor the contractor performance and report to executing agency. During operation phase executing agency will be solely responsible for operation, maintenance, monitoring and supervision. In case, any deviation from the contract requirements with respect to proposed EMP is observed, the same shall be corrected within a fortnight through contractor and PMC and records maintained for the same. The executing agency will also verify the facts reports through periodic site visits

23. Environment budget of NRs18.4 million is proposed for environmental management during construction phase including recurring cost of 1 year and NRs 3.28 million during operation phase per year. Environment management budget is given in Table 3.

Table 3: Environment Management Budget

S. No. Item No. Indicative Capital Cost (NRs)

Indicative Recurring Cost/Yr (NRs)

Construction Phase 1. Compensatory Afforestation

(assuming approx. 60 trees may be cut so compensatory plantation will be 1,500 trees @ rate of 1,000 NRsper tree and 500NRs maintenance per year)

500,000 300,000

2. Bio-toilets (assuming 4 labor camps/construction site and 4 toilets at each site)

1,000,000 240,000

3. Waste Collection, Segregation, Disposal & Management (4 sites) and provision of organic waste convertors

2,600,000 1,000,000

4. Temporary sheds for material storage, paved areas and rest areas for workers (4 sites)

400,000 40,000

5. Labour accommodation and the basic facilities (4 sites)

1,000,000 1,000,000

6. PPE Cost, maintenance and repair

1,500,000 300,000


7. Environmental Monitoring (lumpsum)

1,000,000 1,000,000

8. Transportation of Muck for disposal/construction debris

Part of construction costs

9. Trainings 12,75,000 Subtotal: Construction Phase

(A) 11,025,000 3,280,000 Operation Stage

10. Waste Collection, Segregation, Treatment, Disposal & Management

- 2,400,000

Sub Total-Operation Phase (B) - 2,400,000 Total ( A+B) 11,025,000 5,680,000 Contingency @10% 1,102,500 568,000 Total Budget NRs18,375,500 or say NRs1.84 crore


(iii) Guheshwari Temple Area: Ghats, Sattals (ritual shelters) improvement, Footpath construction and landscape maintaining;

(iv) Area between Thapathali to Teku: (a) Restoration/Reconstruction of the archeologically important old heritages sites (23 temples and monuments) on the right bank of the river with the aim of creating a heritage walk area along the monuments, (b) Ghats improvement, (c) landscape improvement at both the banks, (d) riverbank improvement works including management of large municipal solid waste for about 2.4 km, (e) Construction of 17.3 million liters per day (MLD) capacity WWTP largely underground at the confluence of Tukucha and Bagmati Rivers.

5. The location of BRBIP current project and the additional financing are shown at Figure 1.1 in pink and yellow color, respectively.

(Legends: Pink Color Area : BRBIP activity area, Yellow Color Area : Additional Financing activity Area)

Figure 1.1 : Location Map of BRBIP Phase I & II Project Components

6. Benefits of the additional financing: The additional financing is expected to result in the following benefits once completed.

(i) Landscaping: Sensitized communities for respecting the river environment, avoid disposal of solid waste to river and open defecation on riverbank, creation of new amenities and recreational areas for local communities, prevention of encroachment into the riparian land along the river banks, improved land values along the river corridor, improved aesthetic and Ghats areas.

(ii) River Stone Walls with forefront protection: Stabilization of river banks, Protection against flooding, safeguarding of green zones against river bank erosion, improves aesthetic value with replacement of existing gabion walls

(iii) Sewage Treatment and Solid Waste Management: Improve water quality of the river

(iv) Restoration of Cultural Properties: Protection of archaeological and cultural heritage of the country and improving aesthetic and tourism attraction of the area.


13. The IEE report is presented in eight chapters, which includes this introduction and chapters on description of project activities, legislative and institutional framework, description of project components, Description of baseline environment, anticipated environmental impacts and mitigation measures, EMP, public consultation and disclosure, conclusions and recommendations.

Figure 1.2 : Environmental Study Area Map for BRBIP-II


S. No.

Environmental Safeguard

Purpose Applicability Agency

2. Forest Act, 1993 (amendment, 2007), Forests Rules 1995 Amended till date,

This Act requires decision makers to take account of all forest values, including environmental services and biodiversity, not just the production of timber and other commodities. It includes several provisions to ensure development, conservation, management, and sustainable use of forest resources based on appropriate planning These rules elaborate legal measures for the conservation of forests and wildlife. Prior Permission is required for cutting of any tree from Department of Forest. Compensatory tree plantation is required to be done on 1:25 ratio for each of the tree cut of more than 10 cm size including the provision of 5-year maintenance as compensatory afforestation

Not Applicable No tree cutting is involved of the forest land. However, permission will be required for cutting of tree if involved from respective land owners. Tree cutting may be required for construction of WWTP adjacent from the Tukucha Drain.

Ministry of Environment & Forests or respective land owners for tree cutting as the case be.

3. National Park and Wildlife Conservation Act, 1973,

For conservation of ecologically valuable areas and indigenous wildlife. The Act prohibits trespassing in park areas, prohibits wildlife hunting, construction works in the park area, damage to plant and animal, construction of huts and houses in park area without permission of authorized persons. It lists 26 species of mammals, 9 species of birds, and 3 species of reptile as protected wildlife.

Not Applicable None of the project component is planned within the notified national park or wildlife area


4. Soil and Watershed Conservation Act, 1982

The Soil and Watershed Conservation Act empowers the government to declare any area as a protected watershed to limit degradation of land by floods, water-logging, salinity in irrigated areas and acceleration of siltation in storage reservoirs, and to properly manage the watersheds of Nepal. The Act of 1982 and its regulations of 1985 together provide the legal basis for managing watersheds. The Act also outlines the essential parameters necessary for proper watershed management (including both rivers and lakes).

Applicable but no specific permission is required. The project site lies within the Bagmati River Basin area. The project activity as such does not attract specific measures as project activity is related to riverine environment improvement.


5. The Water Resources, Act 1993, GON

The Water Resources Act contains provisions to minimize environmental impacts, soil erosion, floods and landslides. The Act empowers government to frame standards while utilizing water resources and to frame rules on environment related matters such as controlling water pollution. The Water Resources Rules, 1993 require

Not Applicable The project does not involve usage of water resources, but it is aimed at improving the water resources status of the River Bagmati.

Water & Energy Commission


S. No.



that hydro-electric project developer analyses the environmental impacts of the proposed Hydro-electric project and identify environmental control and safety measures along with other necessary arrangements necessary for resettlement of project affected people. . The Irrigation Rules, 1989, also prohibits activities, which pollute the canal or irrigation channel.

6. Ancient Monument Protection Act, 2013 (1956 A.D.) Basic guidelines for the conservation and reconstruction of earthquake damaged heritage 2072 (2015)

For preservation and restoration of the ancient monuments, articles and sites

Applicable. Large no. of archaeologically important monuments exists within 100 m of banks of the of river. Pashupati Nath temple a UNESCO World Heritage Site also exists on the bank of the river. . Concurrence/ Permission should be taken from archaeological department prior to carrying out project activities in the vicinity of these monuments and heritage site.

Department of Archaeology

7. Aquatic Animals Protection Act, 1961

Act recognizes the value of wetlands and aquatic animals. Under the Act, any party is punishable for introducing poisonous or explosive materials into a water source or destroying any dam, bridge or water system with the intent of catching or killing ��

as a lake, pond, ditch, pool or reservoir that is on land used by a person who has been paying land tax to the government. Although the Act has been in effect for quite some time there is no designated agency to administer it.

Applicable. No permission as such is required. The project has direct interface with the Bagmati River which supports aquatic life as well. At present aquatic life is zero in project area. Measures are incorporated to support the aquatic life once project is implemented to support the aquatic life in line with the intent of this notification.

Local Authority (Chief District Officer of District)


S. No.



8. Labour Rules (1993)

The labour rules set out the regulations to be followed in Nepal, with respect to general terms for employment, working hours, remuneration and welfare arrangements, health, sanitation and safety.

Applicable Contractor is to primarily comply with its requirements.

Labour Department

9. Land Acquisition Act 2034, (1977) Land Act, 2021, (1964)

This Act empowers the government to acquire land for public purposes, by providing compensation for the private land and properties, as determined by the Compensation Fixation Committee. The act pertains to provision of compensation to the land owner in case of acquisition. According to the Act, a landowner may not be compensated for more than he/she is entitled to hold the land. The Land Act also specifies the compensation entitlements of registered tenants on land sold by the owner or acquired for development purposes.

Not Applicable Development will be taken up only on Government land.

District Administration Office & District Land Revenue Office

10.Vehicle and Transport Management Act 2049, (1993)

Regulate vehicular exhaust emission according to the standard

Applicable for all project and construction vehicles

Transport management Office & Committee

11.Solid Waste (Management and Resource Mobilization) Act 2044, (1986) & Solid Waste Management Rules 2070, (2013)

Ensure solid waste management through the collection, transportation, recycling, disposal, and the classification of hazardous wastes

Applicable for the management of Solid waste. No permission as such is required.

Ministry of Environment, & Forests (MoEF)

Policies & Guidelines 12.National

Environmental Impact Assessment Guidelines, 1993, GON

These guidelines provide guidance to project proponent on integrating environmental mitigation measures, particularly on the management of quarries, borrow pits, stockpiling of materials and spoil disposal, operation of the worker camps, earthworks and slope stabilization, location of stone crushing plants, etc.

Applicable . To be complied by contractor primarily.


13.Occupational Safety and health guidelines

Basic principles of the guidelines are working safely on construction sites and for ways for Contractors and managers to manage the safety and health on site

Applicable to maintain health and safety of workers/staff/public

OSH Committee, Ministry of Federal Affairs and Local Development


S. No.



14.Nepal Environmental Policy and Action Plan (NEPAP I and II), 1993/1998

NEPAP seeks to: (i) Efficiently and sustainably manage natural and physical resources; (ii) balance development efforts and environmental conservation; (iii) Safeguard national heritage; (iv) Mitigate adverse environmental impacts on development projects and human actions, and (v) integrate environment and development through appropriate institutions, adequate legislation and economic incentives. The NEPAP addresses the preservation of endemic and endangered species and their habitats; the promotion of private and public institutions for biological resources inventory and conservation; and the strengthening of the capacity of the Department of Nature Parks and Wildlife Conservation (DNOWC)

Applicable The project has an interface if carrying out development in close association with the natural resources


15.Wetland Policy, 2003, GON

This policy has been formulated for planned conservation, maintenance and ��

providing support to economic, social and cultural development of local communities by improving their living conditions through wise use of wetlands. ��

Nepal is a signatory to the Ramsar Convention5. The major objective of the policy is to involve local people in the ��

��

use of wetland resources

Applicable As the project is about improvement and management of the River Bagmati

Ministry of Forest and Soil Conservation

16.Water Induced Disaster Management Policy, 2003, GON.

The GON adopted the Water Induced Disaster Management Policy with the objectives of: (i) minimizing the loss of public and property related to water induced disaster; (ii) conserving watershed and aquatic ecosystem for the sustainable use of water related infrastructures, (iii) controlling water induced disaster and management of flood affected areas, and (iv) clarifying the role of government and non-government organizations involved in river management activities. The policy has identified five strategic areas for its implementation: (a) emergency protection measures, (b) abatement of water induced disaster, (c) natural resource conservation, (d) utilization of river banks

Applicable, Measures being taken to prevent flood and manage the flow of river by taking improvement measures like construction of stone gabion wall, Ghats, weirs etc.

Department of Water Induced Disaster Prevention


S. No Institution Responsibilities Government of Nepal, MOE has been entrusted with the tasks to: (i) develop policies, plan and implement projects for conservation, regulation and utilization of energy; (ii) conduct survey study of energy and its utilization; (iii) construct, operate and maintain multi-purpose electricity project; and (iv) and other matters related to energy and electricity

5. Water and Energy Commission Secretariat (WECS)

WECS was established in 1981 with the primary responsibility to assist Nepal Government, the Ministry of Water Resources and other related agencies in the formulation of policies and planning of projects in the water and energy resources sector.

6. Ministry of Physical Planning and Works (MPPW)

MPPW is the main ministry for the overall planning, implementing, coordinating and monitoring development of road networks, improvement of housing and urban environment developments and increasing access to water supply and sanitation facilities. It was established in 2000 as a part of re-organization of the government institutions of Nepal. MPPW implements its plans and policies through its many departments

7. High Powered Commission for Integrated Development of Bagmati Civilization (HPCIDBC)

HPCIDBC was established in 1995 as the Bagmati Area Sewerage Construction and Rehabilitation Project (BASCRP) with the mandate to improve the quality of the river flowing through Pashupatinath Temple area. This involved construction of wastewater interceptors along both sides of the Bagmati River upstream of Guheshwari WWTP to divert waste water and treat it at Guheshwari WWTP developed and operated by HPCIDBC. To date, HPCIDBC has already constructed interceptors from Gokarna to Guheshwari and is now extending the interceptors downstream of Pashupatinath temple from Tilganga to Minbhavan. HPCIDBC is also undertaking greenbelt works which involves construction and undertaking of river training, retention wall, and greenbelt and corridor roads

8. Kathmandu Upatyaka Khanepani Limited (KUKL)

KUKL is a public limited company established under the Company Act (2006) using the public private partnership model. It is responsible for operation and management of water supply and sanitation services in the service area within the valley. KUKL currently provide water services to all the five municipalities.

9. Kathmandu Valley Development Authority (KVDA)

KVDA is an autonomous body established for the purpose of formulating and implementing physical development plans in Kathmandu Valley and thereby make essential services and facilities available to the public. KVDA is provided with an authority to divide the plan area into different land use and lay down conditions for physical development of the plan area. They also have mandate to formulate and implement necessary projects for proper development and maintenance of any religious, cultural and historical heritage. Another key task of KVDA is to prescribe conditions in respect to construction and other activities to be undertaken in forests, rivers, and streams, Ghats and aquatic areas for conservation of nature and environment in the plan area


Table 3.1 : Summary of Projects components of BRBIP Additional Financing S.

No. Location Geographical

coordinates Project Subcomponents Design Features

1. Uttar Gaya Start point (upstream)- 27.734598° N & 85.396180° E

Uttar Gaya Temple: 27.735278° N & 85.397234° E

End Point (downstream)- 27.736842° N & 85.396229° E

Landscaping activities � Construction of new Ghats3 and

stone paving of new Ghats

� Renovation of existing Ghats (it involves stone cladding to existing concrete walls and steps to river and improvement of lower slab)

� Construction of stone masonry and concrete walls to support the pavements

� Construction of new pavement (foot paths)

� Construction of brick wall along the pavement

� Reconstruction of old existing school building

� Construction of new school building

� Construction of new toilet block, providing and fixing plastic l overhead water storage tank, Construction of underground water tank and septic tank

� Renovation of existing shed

� Construction of 4 nos of new sheds

� Removal of old picnic Sattal & construction of new picnic Sattal

� Construction of weir

� Removal of old cremation area and construction of 2 nos new cremation areas

� Plantation works

� Installation of Solar Power Lighting system (including electricity storage batteries), Supply and Placing Rubbish Bins

Enclosed as Appendix 3.1

3 Ghats are concrete steps leading up to river water level on river bank. Generally located next to a temple for performing religious rituals.


S. No.

Location Geographical coordinates

Project Subcomponents Design Features

2. Gokarneshwar temple

Start point (upstream)- 27.739524° N & 85.390040° E

Gokarneshwar Temple: 27.739421° N & 85.387724° E


Landscaping activities � Construction of new Ghats and

stone paving of new Ghats

� Renovation of existing Ghats (stone cladding to existing concrete walls/improvement of stone cladding and steps to river)

� Reconstruction of existing stone gabion wall from lower bank of the Chandramati river

� Construction of stone and concrete wall on both banks of Chandramati river

� Construction of new pavement on lower existing Ghats of Bagmati river and along the new ghat areas

� Improvement of pavement of upper ghat of Bagmati River

� Paving of kachha (earthen) areas (Chautara proposed � raised platform)

� Development of parking zone

� Removal of 4 old sheds and construction of 4 nos new sheds

� Construction of 2 nos cremation areas

� Removal of old toilet and construction of 2 new toilet blocks (Providing and fixing plastic overhead water storage tank, Construction of underground water tank and septic tank and shelter)

� Plantation of about 53 trees in 2 identified areas.

� Provision and Installation of Solar Power Lighting system (including electricity storage batteries)

� Renovation of existing bridge (roof & beautification)

� Replacement of 10-15 electricity poles with new poles



S. No.



3. Guheshwari temple


Guheshwari Temple: 27.712538° N & 85.351538° E


Landscaping activities � Construction of new ghat

� Construction of new pavement on upper bank

� Renovation of existing pavement on lower bank

� Plantation of trees about 69 and additional tree (targeted about 575 on available areas around this area).

� Paving of kacha (earthen) area near Guheshwari temple

� Provision and Installation of Seat, Solar Power Lighting system (including electricity storage batteries), Supply and Placing Rubbish Bins


4. Thapathali to Balkhu


End Point (downstream)- 27.684984° N & 85.299993°E

Landscaping activities � Landscaping of entire stretch

from Thapthali to Balkhu on left bank Landscaping of area from Thapthali to Teku Dovan on right bank

� Removal of old stone wall and construction of new Ghats

� Repair and improvement of existing Ghats and reconstruction of the old steps of existing Ghats and old flagstone pavements

� Painting of old buildings

� Construction of new toilet block at select locations with complete system of waste handling and water supply.

� New brick wall along the new landscape areas

� Plantation (proposed to plant 550 trees in this stretch)

� Provision and Installation of Seats, Solar Power Lighting systems (including batteries), Supply and Placing Rubbish



S. No.



Bins, Supply and Fixing Gates, Revolving Gate

� ��

Area)

� Removal of old sheds and construction of new shed areas

� Disposal of large domestic sewage dumped on right bank between Tekku Devon to Balkhu to municipal land fill site.

� Removal of Existing Masonry Wall, Dismantling of Triangular Metal Pipe Structure, Repair, render & paint existing arched wall and capping, reconstruct brickwork where required

WWTP construction � Construction of 17.3 MLD

Wastewater Treatment Plant on Tuckucha Drain

� The WWTPa is proposed to be located at land parcel of about 5,500 square meters in size (40 m x 140 m size) adjacent to Tuckucha Drain near the confluence point to Bagmati River, based on SBR (Sequencing Batch Reactor) technology with flow rate of 0.35 cum/sec. provision of 2 nos sludge digester is also made as part of design.

� Treatment plant will be largely underground

� The treatment plant area will be landscaped with a park on top of the structurally engineered cover on the tank and the land scaping and construction will be in a manner in keeping with the overall religious heritage scheme theme of the Heritage Walk vicinity

� Treatment plant will have sludge treatment (digestion) facility on the other bank of river. The sludge will be pumped to sludge treatment facility through a


S. No.



sludge transfer pipeline to be laid on the Bagmati river bed.

Restoration and reconstruction of Archaeological (Cultural Heritage) Monuments from Thapathali to Balku � Various structure (old structures

>100 year old) including temples, ghats, Dharamshala (shelters), shrine, sculptures exists between Thapathali to Teku Dovan considered as archaeologically and culturally important monuments (but not notified as archeologically protected monuments) which will be restored to its original conditions. Initially 23 structured will be renovated.

a HPCIDBC has built interceptor sewer on both end of the bank to collect all city sewers and take it to WWTPs. One WWTP is only operational at present next to BRBIP office complex. One more WWTP is under construction at this site. An additional WWTP is proposed at this site and Manora Toban. Takucha WWTP will be additional WWTP in this stretch of the river. The sewer from upstream of Gureswori temple and Pashupati Nath Temple area will flow to the WWTP next to BRBIP office. Rest will go to Sundari Ghat WWTP on right bank. Manora Toban WWTP will treat water of left bank sewage. Takucha WWTP will treat sewage carried by Tackucha River only.


Figure 3.1 : Combine Location Map of Proposed Components of the Phase


Figure 3.2 : Location Map of Development Area Near Uttar Gaya Temple

Figure 3.3 : Location Map of Gokarna Development Area


Figure 3.4 : Location Map of Development Area Near Guheshwari Temple

Figure 3.5 : Location map of Development Works Proposed Along Thapathali to

Balkhu


comprise of 2 numbers of SBR tank (40.6 m diameter and 7.8 m height) and post equalization tank with aerator (20.5 m diameter and 7.8 m side height), 2 numbers of sludge digester and bar screen and grit removal, filters. Schematic diagram of WWTP is given in Figure 3.8. Perspective view of the WWTP is given in Figure 3.9. Max. The WWTP will constructed on almost 2/3 height below the ground and 1/3 height above the ground. highest flood level (HFL) in the area is 1,280.30 m above mean sea level (amsl) and the slab level of WWTP will be kept above HFL is approx. 1,283.05 m amsl.

Figure 3.7 : Location Map of Proposed WWTP


Figure 3.8 : Schematic Diagram of the WWTP


Figure 3.9 : Perspective View of WWTP

28. The sludge from WWTP will be treated at sludge manipulation facility to be set up on the other bank of the river. The sludge will be pumped through a pipeline to be laid on river bed. The layout of sludge management facility is shown at Figure 3.10. The digested sludge will be used as manure to the extent feasible. The sludge thickening will happen at sludge digester from Dry Solid 5% to 22%. The resulting press water and any other waste water (supernatant from the digesters, domestic sewage, etc.) will be diverted to the WWTP. Transfer will happen throuph colleter being install for cables and transfer pipes. Electricity will be generated at slidge digestion facility. The generated electricity will be used partly for raising the temperature sludge to 35°C which is required mesophilic digestion of the sludge. The remaining generated electricity will be used pumps, mixers, dewatering. Cable for energy transmission will also be laid in the communication (pipe) collector between the two riverbanks. The digested sludge will be used as manure. Since WWTP will be constructed on a design�build�operate (DBO) concept. The DBO contractor will come out with its own design on the line proposed. The design has to be made on monitoered input sewage characteristics. The WWTP will have enough sewage holding capacity to manage with continued sewage inflow in the WWTP breakdown scenario.


Figure 3.10 : Prospective view of WWTP Sludge Digester Facility


2. Restoration and Reconstruction of Archaeological /Cultural Heritage Monuments

29. On the north bank of Bagmati River from Thapathali to Teku dovan, 53 archeologically and culturally important structures are identified for improvement. Out of these, 23 structures are selected for priority improvement under the additional financing. These structures are more than 100 years old but not declared as archeologically protected. There are 19 buildings owned by the community and partially renovated recently. Some of these building in near Kalmochan Ghat and Panchanali are of permanent structure. Other private buildings are temporary residence, shed and shops. Old building structures are mostly of Shah regime except three building structures which were built in Rana regime using construction material as lime surkhi pointing and cornice at floor level. Old building structures of Shah regime are in mud mortar, with exposed brick wall. Most of the Sattals4 along the riverbank are usually occupied by the priests and their assistants responsible for rituals, festivals and up keeping of temples and its surroundings. Most of these Sattals have open space in ground floor as a public resting place. These old structures are either totally collapsed or partially damaged. Some of totally collapsed structure which were mostly two storeys with attic roof had been rebuilt as one storey building by the occupier which had lost the originality of traditional architecture. These old structures which are partially damaged still have heavily carved wooden pillars and windows in dilapidated condition. There are 14 temples along this bank, out of which 4 are partially damaged and 1 is totally collapsed. The stone paved walkway along the riverbank are in dilapidated condition and require urgent maintenance. It is proposed to improve the selected 23 archaeological buildings in the stretch for improvement of aesthetics and cultural and heritage value of this area and buildings. Restoration and reconstruction works will involve removal of some structures and construction of new structures and repair of some of the structures. Photographs of few of these monuments are given in Figure 3.11 below. The location of some of the various monuments along the stretch is given in Figure 3.12. List of the Ghats and the major monuments located along the stretch is given at Table 3.2. Extract of the detailed study undertaken on reconstruction and restoration of the archaeological monuments for selected 23 monuments for reconstruction. Along the stretch is given in Appendix 3.5

Teku Dovan Pachali Area

Kalmochan Area Puret Ghat

Figure 3.11 : Photographs of Archaeological Monuments

4 Sattal = rest house


Pashupati Nath Temple core zone area. Mrigasthali hills abuts the project area in South direction. Harshdeep Prakasteshwar temple is also approx. 45 m from the river bank in North direction.

35. Thapathali to Balkhu Area: In this stretch work of improvement is proposed at lower bank from downstream of Thapathali bridge to Balkhu bridge and on upper bank from Thapathali bridge to Bishnumati River confluence point. Various structure including temples, ghats, Dharamshala, shrine, sculptures etc exists between Thapathali to Teku dovan will be restored and rehabilitated. This stretch is not declared as notified archaeological zone by GoN as yet. Major ghats/temples of archaeological importance from Thapathali to Teku Dovan are listed in Table 3.2 above.

36. Tukucha and Bishnumati River drains into the Bagmati River. Four bridges exist along this stretch, i.e. Thapathali bridge, Teku bridges (2 nos) and Balkhu bridge. Other structures along this stretch include toilet block. A new bridge is proposed to be constructed along this stretch just downstream of Bishnumati river confluence. It is proposed to construct WWTP adjacent to Tukucha Drain. There are 50-60 trees existing at the proposed site and some of the trees may be required to cut.

37. The domestic waste dumped in this stretch will be cleared and sent to secure land fill site maintain by Municipal corporation.

Gokarna Temple Area and Ghat

Uttar Gaya Temple and Ghats


Guheshwari Temple Area and Ghats

Thapathali to Balkhu Stretch


50. The proposed subproject activities are site specific and subset of BRBIP. The subcomponents of the subproject are considered essential to meet the objectives of BRBIP and are selected on the basis of the cultural and heritage importance of the area. The selection considerations includes condition of the ghats /river banks/structures, siltation in river stretch and pollution of the river. The construction methodology, material use, and other design options are aligned with surrounding environment and aesthetic. The construction technology or design for the additional financing being similar to the current project, not many alternatives are available. Therefore, alter��

��

1. Without Project Scenario

51. The Bagmati River water quality is deteriorated and will continue to be polluted until all untreated sewage is stopped draining to river and people stop dumpinging municipal solid waste to riverbanks. Many Ghats and temple area are damages and requires urgent reconstruction. River siltation is on rise resulting in reduced water carrying capacity with passage of time. In without project scenario, above problem will continue to multiply. The chances of flooding during monsoon due to reducing carrying capacity of the river will increase. The river is polluted to the extent that its self-cleansing power has been lost and if same state is continued with waste dumping for years then river not be able to rejuvenate on its own. Bagmati river has high religious and economic importance which will continue to effect if river is not restored or rejuvenated.

2. With Project Scenario

52. The proposed project additional financing will enhance the overall riverine environment. The project aims to improve the river water flow and water availability along the Pashupatinath temple area. The proposedproject additional financing will also rehabilitate the existing ghats, improve pavements and river banks which will not only stop further deterioration of the ghats and erosion of bank areas but also improve overall aesthetic and use of these areas. The installation of WWTP for interception and treatment of sewage from Tukucha drains will stop discharge of untreated sewage to river which will contribute in rejuvenation of the river. Similarly, the proposed management of solid waste spread along the river banks in the project area will also prevent pollution of the river. Restoration and reconstruction of the archaeological structures and improvement of ghats, landscaping works ��

53. There are also other ongoing and upcoming projects of the Government of Nepal for Bagmati Basin Improvement. These projects in conjunction with BRBIP will facilitate in restoration and rejuvenation of the river.

54. The short-term impact on aesthetics, soil quality, air quality and noise levels during construction stage is very minimal compared to the gain to be derived from this project implementation.

55. Considering both the scenarios with project scenario is considered the preferred option.


Gokarna parking Gokarna ritual area platform

view of the Gokarna Ghat from right bank

view of waste disposal in Bagmati river


view of the construction activities and labor rest area in ongoing construction area



view of river down Stream of Gokarna temple


view of domestic waste disposal near Takucha drain



Chandravati river with muck disposed by religious visitors

Figure 3.15 . Additional Site Photographs


Table 4.1 : Environmental Sensitivity in Project Influence Area (100 m corridor)

Location Land use Habitation Water bodies/

Wetlands

Drains

Archaeological sites; cultural heritage sites;

Temples & Religious Site

Schools & other

educational

institutes

Hospitals Religious forest/community forest/forest/park


Utter Gaya Peri-urban � Bhumthali Yes, Bagmati

River

No � Uttar Gaya temple (Uttara Bahini temple) & Kanti Bhairab Temple

� Hanuman temple

� Sanskriti School (Gurukul)

No Gokarna religious forest

� Uttar Gaya Ghat

� Nahan on various days like amavasya, purnima, okhia usi, ��

Day

Gokarneshwor Mahadev Temple

Peri-urban � Gokarneshwar

� Bhumthali

Yes Bagmati River & Chandramati river

Drain

� Gupti Ganesh Temple


� Sahayogi Multiple College

� Gokarna Public Health care

Gokarna religious forest

� Gokarna Ghat

� ��Day (June-July)

� Teej (Aug-Sep)






Wetlands

Drains



Schools & other

educational

institutes



Guheshwari Temple*

Urban � Kumarigal

� Gaurighat

Yes Bagmati

River

No � Guheshwari temple

� Kirateshwar temple

� Small temples near Kirateshwar temple

� Pashupatinath temple (UNESCO site)

No No Mrigasthali religious

forests

� Gaurighat

� Guheshwari ghat

� ��day (June-July)

� Teej (Aug-Sep)




Thapathali to Balkhu

Urban � Kupondole

� Thapathali

� Bhadrakali

� Gusingal

� Bainsighat

Yes Bagmati River,

Tukucha Drain,

Dhobakhola river

and Bishnuma

ti River

No � Hanumanthan Temple



� Vishwa niketan school � Advan

ce college of engineering and

� Medanta Ortho care & Neuro care Center

� Paropkar Maternity and Women Hospital

� Shahid smarak park


� Puret Ghat

� Bhagawatsh

� ��day (June-July)

� Teej (Aug-Sep)



Wetlands

Drains



Schools & other

educational

institutes



� Rajtirtha

� Pachali

� Teku

� Sanchal

� Kuleshwar

� Balkhu




� Narayan temple

� Ram temple

� image of Ganesh






management

war Ghat




Wetlands

Drains



Schools & other

educational

institutes










� Lakshminarayan temple

� RadhaKrishna temple



Wetlands

Drains



Schools & other

educational

institutes




� Kalimata temple


* Areas within core zone of the UNESCO Protected Pashupatinath Temple area


Figure 4.1 : Gokarna Temple Area Map


Figure 4.2 : Gaurighat Guheshwari 100 m Radius Map


Figure 4.3 : Thapathali 100m Radius Map

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turbidity

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pashupatinath_Temple

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pashupatinath_Temple

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahabharat_Range

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sivalik_Hills

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Terai

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dheng


58. The Bagmati River Basin, based on morphology, land-use etc., can be divided into different sub-basins viz. Upper Bagmati, Upper Middle Bagmati, Lower Middle (Terai) Bagmati and the Lower Bagmati (Terai) sub-basin. The total area of the Basin within Nepalese territory is about 3,638 km2.

Source R.K.Prakash et al. Application of Water Quality Indices and Dissolved Oxygen as Indicators for River Water Classification and Urban Impact Assessment

Figure 4.5 : Longitudinal Profile of Bagmati River of Year 1992-2009

59. Hydrology and Flow of Bagmati River: The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (DHM) monitors the monthly flow of the river at various locations. Gauge is located Gaurighat station within this project area. Flow data at Gaurighat is available for year 1991 to 2006 and the summary is given in Table 4.2. The maximum average monthly flow of 22.30 m3/s was observed in August 2002 whereas the minimum average monthly flow of 0.05 m3/s was observed in April 1995. Mean monthly flows of the river during dry season are 0.45 m3/s, 0.38 m3/s, 0.45 m3/s and 0.74 m3/s in February, March, April and May, respectively. Mean monthly flows of river during wet season are 7.35 m3/s, 11.12 m3/s and 6.91 m3/s in July, August and September, respectively.

60. The highest maximum flow of 108 m3/s was observed in 2002 and the lowest maximum flow of 21.6 m3/s was observed in 1992. Further, the highest minimum flow of 0.69 m3/s was observed in 2003 whereas the lowest minimum flow of 0.03 m3/s was observed in 1995. As per the observation, highest flood level within 100 years is observed to be 1,304 m amsl.

Table 4.2 : Average Monthly Discharges at Gaurighat (1991 to 2006)

Year Average Monthly Discharge (m3/s) Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

1991 0.6 0.16 0.18 0.25 0.44 0.8 3.4 6.42 6.9 1.95 0.94 0.71 1992 0.48 0.25 0.11 0.19 0.33 0.73 2.45 6.05 6.19 2.34 1.31 0.83 1993 0.41 0.47 0.35 0.58 0.89 1.64 4.97 8.43 4.16 1.93 0.82 0.38 1994 0.32 0.19 0.08 0.1 0.29 2.16 6.68 10.6 8.09 1.48 0.44 0.22 1995 0.08 0.07 0.06 0.05 0.62 4.73 8.39 7.06 4.01 2.18 1.14 0.52 1996 0.47 0.23 0.21 0.18 0.18 1.53 4.83 11.10 5.91 3.02 1.15 0.59


Year Average Monthly Discharge (m3/s) Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

1997 0.40 0.29 0.22 0.56 0.36 1.06 8.51 10.90 4.05 1.79 0.85 0.84 1998 0.38 0.30 0.54 0.6 0.9 1.14 8.14 11.80 5.25 2.35 1.00 0.47 1999 0.35 0.32 0.29 0.31 0.43 2.08 7.54 11.0 6.58 4.83 1.40 0.55 2000 0.27 0.22 0.18 0.27 1.24 2.64 7.47 11.70 6.17 2.19 0.87 0.7 2001 0.65 1.55 0.37 0.31 0.6 1.91 7.04 16.10 10.50 5.19 2.2 0.98 2002 0.76 0.59 0.88 0.93 1.99 2.01 17.0 22.3 9.33 2.72 0.87 0.3 2003 1.41 1.56 1.51 1.39 1.16 2.13 13.3 16.9 17.1 4.98 1.77 0.97 2004 0.72 0.37 0.54 0.68 1.07 1.25 9.15 12.0 7.43 3.68 1.18 0.55 2005 0.44 0.24 0.2 0.16 0.16 0.7 1.25 9.15 12.0 7.43 3.68 0.21 2006 0.09 0.54 0.39 0.62 1.13 1.88 5.73 6.88 5.37 2.23 0.58 0.25 Mean 0.49 0.45 0.38 0.45 0.74 1.77 7.35 11.12 6.91 2.78 1.07 0.57 Min 0.08 0.07 0.06 0.05 0.16 0.70 2.45 6.05 3.45 1.48 0.44 0.21 Max 1.41 1.56 1.51 1.39 1.99 4.73 17.00 22.30 17.10 5.19 2.2 0.98

Source: DHM6

61. Flooding in the River Bagmati: Bagmati river floods almost every year. Major floods occurred in 1993, 2002 and 2004. An extreme flood also occurred in the valley in 1954. Huge flash floods hit the valley on 27-28 July 1954. Heavy rainfall of 173 mm on 27th and 99 mm on 28th July 1954 were recorded in meteorological station situated at Indian Embassy, Kathmandu. A major flood disaster also occurred in Bagmati river basin on 19-21 July 1993 which was caused by intensive rainfall in the central region of Nepal. 540 mm of 24-hour rainfall with intensity as high as 65 mm/hr was recorded which was the highest ever recorded in the history of Nepal.

2. Topography and Physiography

62. Study area considered is 100 m distance from each bank of the Bagmati River. Bagmati River flows through the Kathmandu Valley. Elevation of Kathmandu City is approximately 1,400 metres (4,600 feet) above sea level in the bowl-shaped Kathmandu Valley of Central Nepal. Length of the Bagmati River within the Kathmandu Valley area is 25 km approx. Elevation of the Bagmati River bed within the Kathmandu valley varies from 1,050 to 1,350 m amsl. Figure showing longitudinal profile of the river is given in Figure 4.6.

6 Referred from BRPBIP Phase I EIA Report

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Foot_(unit)

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Above_sea_level


Source: Climate Change Impact on River Dynamics of the Bagmati Basin, Kathmandu Nepal, Dec 2010

Figure 4.6 : Longitudinal Profile of Bagmati River of Year 1992-2009

3. Drainage

63. The Bagmati River and its tributaries drains the Kathmandu Valley. The tributaries of rivers Bagmati includes Tokha, Budhanikantha, Sundarijal, Bishnumati, Tukucha, Dhobi Khola, Manohara, Hanumante, Balku, Godavari, Kodaku, Nakhu, Lele and Naldu. As per stream classification by Geological Society of America, Bagmati river falls under 7th order7 stream formed by confluence of various tributaries. The order and length of its various tributaries are given below which are generally of 5 and 6 the order stream. Drainage map of the Bagmati River Basin is given in Figure 4.7. The run-off from the project area will flow directly to Bagmati River.

� Hanumante River is a 6th order drainage stretches for 18.30 Km � 6th order Godawori Khola with channel length 16.08 Km � Manahara River (5th order and 25.24 Km) � Dhobi Khola (5th order and 17.82 Km) � Tukucha (2nd order and 5.91 Km) � Bishnumati River (6th order and 16.35 Km) � Balkhu Khola (6th order and 16.44 Km) � Chhaimale Khola (5th order and 10.04 Km) � Nakhu Khola (5th order and 25.59 Km) � Kodhkhu Khola (5th order and 15.13 Km)

7 Geological Society of America defines the classification of stream in order terms ( ranging from 1 to 12 orders)

depending upon the size of the stream. The sizes range from a first-order stream ( smallest size) to the largest, a 12th order stream



Figure 4.7 : Drainage Map of Bagmati Basin

4. Land Use

64. River-side lands are very important for maintaining river ecosystem as well the aesthetic value of rivers and their surroundings. Land use of the study area ( 100 m either side of the river) is either peri-urban or urban. Utter Gaya, Gokarneshwar Mahadev Temple area falls under peri-urban area whereas Guheshwari temple area, Pashupatinath temple area and Thapathali to Balkhu falls under urban area ( refer Figure 4.1 to 4.3) . The key land use features within 100 m corridor of Bagmati river is religious structures (Ghats, temples), habitation, roads and footpaths, archaeological monuments, historical monuments, religious and social plantation. The land use map of Bagmati River upper basin area, wherein Kathmandu Valley/project area is located, is shown at Figure 4.8. Most of this basin area is forested beyond the city area.


Source Water science 31 (2017) 93-108

Figure 4.8 : Land Use Map of Bagmati Basin

5. Meteorology

65. Climate in the Bagmati basin varies from sub-tropical in the valley and foot slopes through warm temperate at the mid-elevation to cold temperate in the higher mountains.

66. Temperature: Mean monthly maximum and minimum temperature data of Kathmandu during 2001 to 2010 are given in Table 4.3 and 4.4. The highest mean monthly temperature of 29.6oC is observed in June while the lowest mean monthly temperature of 2.9oC is observed in January.

Table 4.3 : Monthly Maximum Temperature at Kathmandu

Year Maximum Temperature (0C) 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 Mean

Jan 20.7 19.0 19.2 18.2 17.9 22.3 19.1 19.4 22.5 22.3 20.1 Feb 24.6 22.7 20.7 22.0 22.0 25.2 19.1 21.3 25.8 23.2 22.7 Mar 26.7 25.2 24.5 27.3 25.8 26.3 24.7 26.0 27.5 29.2 26.3 Apr 29.6 27.1 28.6 27.7 28.6 27.8 29.1 29.3 31.4 31.9 29.1 May 28.2 27.3 29.7 28.6 29.4 28.4 29.8 29.0 29.1 30.3 29.0 Jun 28.6 29.3 28.8 28.8 30.5 29.5 29.6 29.3 30.6 31.1 29.6 July 28.9 28.5 28.7 27.7 29.1 29.5 28.4 29.3 29.8 29.5 28.9 Aug 29.0 29.0 29.1 29.1 29.0 29.6 29.2 29.5 29.1 29.2 29.2 Sep 28.5 28.1 28.5 28.1 29.5 28.3 28.1 29.4 29.4 28.6 28.7 Oct 27.7 26.7 27.6 26.0 26.4 27.2 28.0 28.4 27.4 28.0 27.3 Nov 25.2 23.8 23.6 22.7 23.3 23.8 24.7 25.3 24.0 24.8 24.1 Dec 20.6 19.8 19.6 20.6 21.0 20.2 20.9 22.2 20.5 20.8 20.6

Source: Department of Hydrology and Meteorology8

8 Referred from BRPBIP Phase I EIA Report


Table 4.4 : Monthly Minimum Temperature at Kathmandu

Year Minimum Temperature (0C) 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 Mean

Jan 2.1 2.7 2.0 3.1 4.3 2.0 2.9 3.0 3.7 3.1 2.9 Feb 4.8 5.4 5.4 5.2 5.9 9.1 6.5 3.3 5.9 4.8 5.6 Mar 7.4 9.3 9.0 10.7 10.1 8.6 9.3 9.5 8.2 10.9 9.3 Apr 11.2 12.8 13.3 13.2 11.6 12.4 13.8 12.5 13.3 139 12.8 May 16.4 16.7 14.5 16.5 14.9 17.3 16.8 15.4 16.0 16.8 16.1 Jun 19.2 19.6 19.1 19.1 19.2 19.4 19.5 19.6 18.9 19.5 193 July 20.1 20.2 20.3 20.2 20.6 20.9 20.6 20.3 20.7 20.6 20.5 Aug 19.9 19.8 20.5 20.6 20.6 20.3 20.5 20.1 20.5 20.6 20.3 Sep 18.5 18.2 19.4 19.3 19.5 18.9 19.2 18.7 18.6 19.2 19.0 Oct 14.3 13.5 14.8 13.1 14.0 13.7 15.3 13.5 14.4 14.9 14.2 Nov 8.5 8.4 9.3 7.5 8.4 9.2 8.9 8.7 7.8 9.9 8.7 Dec 3.7 4.0 4.4 4.5 3.5 5.1 3.8 6.0 5.3 2.9 4.3

Source: Department of Hydrology and Meteorology9

67. Relative Humidity: The mean relative humidity in Kathmandu from 1981 to 2010 is recorded as 75%. Humidity is maximum in July, August and September and lowest in January.

68. Rainfall: Rainfall has been recorded at about 1,400 millimetres (55.1 in) for the Kathmandu valley, and about 1,407 millimetres (55.4 in) for the city of Kathmandu with annual average precipitation of 2,900 mm. Rainfall data from Sundarijal meteorology station of DHM is given in Table 4.5. Graphical presentation of monthly rainfall data at Kathmandu is given in Figure 4.9.

Table 4.5 : Monthly Rainfall at Sundarijal

Year Monthly Rainfall (mm) Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Annual

1994 35.4 24.1 21.6 28.2 262.0 619.3 875.7 878.8 676.2 0.0 19.8 0.0 3441.1 1995 19.6 47.2 42.0 9.6 102.6 326.4 815.0 588.0 357.0 41.0 60.8 0.0 2409.2 1996 73.6 9.2 14.8 51.0 67.6 492.8 680.4 897.8 480.2 64.4 0.0 0.0 2831.8 1997 28.0 8.2 27.4 125.6 113.0 329.0 1176.0 752.8 227.0 34.8 47.0 64.4 2933.2 1998 1.8 0.0 97.0 133.4 308.8 440.2 808.0 852.0 203.6 22.4 0.0 0.0 2867.2 1999 6.2 2.2 0.2 19.5 219.2 455.6 822.8 695.8 381.4 194.6 0.0 0.0 2797.5 2000 0.3 2.4 20.4 87.4 343.0 514.1 734.9 706.6 361.7 2.8 0.0 2.0 2775.6 2001 7.0 1.5 12.1 26.8 183.3 420.1 597.9 636.9 124.6 18.0 0.0 0.2 2028.4 2002 37.3 38.1 111.4 90.6 271.2 133.8 536.6 512.4 128.7 47.3 0.4 0.2 1908.0 2003 49.9 64.5 61.7 14.5 29.1 68.8 584.1 549.6 329.8 0.0 0.0 20.4 1772.4 2004 48.9 0.3 31.4 30.3 233.0 101.8 392.2 287.9 183.8 44.9 30.4 0.0 1384.9 2005 93.8 14.6 15.3 11.8 21.7 49.7 190.1 208.6 137.5 146.6 0.0 0.0 889.7 2006 0.0 0.0 37.4 112.6 410.3 257.1 295.8 424.8 181.1 11.2 0.0 22.2 1752.5 2007 0.0 104.7 54.5 154.2 114.7 245.5 428.4 571.5 406.8 30.2 0.0 0.0 2110.5 2008 1.8 0.0 104.8 25.8 111.8 234.9 294.9 321.8 286.2 41.4 0.0 13.2 1436.6 2009 0.0 0.0 17.4 0.0 290.0 92.4 684.9 426.4 326.9 37.3 0.0 0.0 1875.3 2010 0.0 24.7 28.4 79.2 157.5 306.4 407.4 782.2 128.1 52.9 0.0 0.0 1966.8 Mean 23.7 20.1 41.0 58.9 190.5 299.3 607.4 593.8 289.4 46.5 9.3 7.2 2187.1

Source10: DHM

9 Reference taken from BRPBIP Phase I EIA Report 10 Reference taken from BRPBIP Phase I EIA Report



Figure 4.10 : Geology Map of Kathmandu Valley 71. Tectonic Settings : As per the National Society for Earthquake Technology (NSET) Nepal, Kathmandu Valley lies in Zone 4 which correspond to earthquake intensity of MMI11

11 The Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale defines the intensity of an earthquake on a scale of I to IX. I denotes the

not felt category while IX denotes extreme damage category where a structure can damage from foundations


scale of IX and above means height risk category. Earthquake risk map of Nepal is given in Figure 4.10. According to OCHA (United Nations Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs), the Kathmandu region falls in degree IX to XII, means exposure of earthquake is very high. Several large and devastating earthquakes have occurred in the past, which includes earthquake in 1833 (Richter magnitude 7), 1934 (Richter magnitude 8.4), 1960 and 1988. Recent earthquake occurred in 2015 April which caused huge losses in country including Kathmandu valley. The building and structures in such areas, are required to be designed considering the highest earthquake intensity level of the area.

Source: NSET

Figure 4.11 : Seismic Hazard Map of Nepal

7. Soil Quality

72. There are four types of soils found in Kathmandu Valley namely: Recent alluvial soil, residual soil, colluviums soil and alluvial fan deposit. Soil in project area is recent alluvial type. Recent alluvial soil comprises of clay, sand and fine gravel. Soil of the Kathmandu valley is very fertile but due to urbanization, erosion and pollution the fertility level is reduced. Soil profile contains layers of sand, clay, sand and fine gravels, and boulders. The soil profile varies with the river descends down the valley and the same for this subproject area along the river section is given in Table 4.6.

Table 4.6 : Soil Profile along River Bagmati

S. No. Location Soil Profile 1. Gokarna Sand and boulders 2. Gaurighat Sand and boulders 3. Sinamangal Clay, sand and fine gravel 4. Thapathali Clay, sand and fine gravel 5. Teku Clay, sand and fine gravel 6. Balkhu Clay, sand and fine gravel

73. The soil quality data for Kathmandu valley is given at Table 4.7.

level. The another scale of Earthquake measurement is The Richter scale which measures the magnitude of earthquake by measuring seismic waves.


Table 4.7 : Soil Quality of Kathmandu Valley

Characteristics Surface Soil Sub soil Bulk Density 1.52 1.54

organic matter % 3.29 2.54

Organic Carbon 1.94 1.496 Saturated Hydraulic

Conductivity K (mm/hr)

28.35 27.88

Clay 11.35 13.34 Silt 36.89 35.76

Sand 51.77 50.896 EC (micro

seimen/cm) 0.338 0.485

pH 6.88 6.9

(Source : BRBIP � I study in 2014)

8. Surface Water Resources and Quality

74. Bagmati River and its tributaries rivers Chandramati, Tukucha and river Bishnumati. River Dhobakhola River flows downstream of Thapathali bridge. Apart from this, there are few drains which makes way into the River Bagmati. KAPRIMO12 ( Kathmandu Participatory River Monitoring) has carried out the water quality study of the entire Bagmati river basin and has classified the rivers into different classes as per the quality of the water. Bagmati basin river water quality map prepared by KAPRIMO is given in Figure 4.13. As per the study, all the rivers within the Kathmandu valley falls under class IV & V which indicates the poor quality of water.

75. Surface water quality data for some of these water bodies have been collected from Empowered Bagmati Civilization Integrated Development Committee and analysis is given in Table 4.8, 4.9, 4.10 & 4.11.

12 A Government of Netherland supported project for the monitoring of river Bagmati water quality.


Source: KAPRIMO

Figure 4.12 : River Quality Map (Red-poorest quality and blue-best quality) as per KAPRIMO

Table 4.8 : Surface Water Quality in Project Area-River Bagmati (Feb 2017-Aug 2017)

Turbidity (NTU)

DO mg/l BOD5 mg/l

COD mg/l

Gokarna Feb 2017 45 6.0 25 14 Mar 2017 38 6.0 10 30 April 2017 52 6.1 15 37 June 2017 300 4.8 52 115 July 2017 284 5.2 25 64 Aug 2017 302 6.4 10 38 Guheshwari Feb 2017 56 7.3 28 6.4 Mar 2017 54 4.2 16 45 April 2017 97 1.2 42 96 June 2017 200 2.0 64 110 July 2017 160 5.0 24 52 Aug 2017 164 5.5 16 40 Aryaghat

Month

Parameters


Turbidity (NTU)

DO mg/l BOD5 mg/l

COD mg/l

Feb 2017 43 5.4 31 18 Mar 2017 68 3.7 20 58 April 2017 82 4.2 16 48

June 2017 160 1.2 35 61

July 2017 122 4.4 18 40 Aug 2017 228 4.2 12 48 Tilganga Feb 2017 71 4.2 63 22 Mar 2017 120 2.1 48 145 April 2017 220 0 99 212 June 2017 115 0.4 50 81 July 2017 164 2.1 32 66 Aug 2017 355 3.1 24 78 Sinamangal Feb 2017 210 2.8 208 120 Mar 2017 103 1.4 54 138 April 2017 168 0 110 230

June 2017 128 0 52 92

July 2017 142 2.6 35 73 Aug 2017 300 2.8 38 92 NDWQS Desirable limits, 2016

5(10) >5 <30 <250

(Source: Empowered Bagmati Civilization Integrated Development Committee; http://bagmati.gov.np, Oct, 2018)

Table 4.9 : Surface Water Quality in Project Area-River Bagmati (Oct 2017 to Feb

2018)

Turbidity

(NTU)

DO mg/l BOD5 mg/l

COD mg/l

TSS

TDS pH

Conductivity

Fecal coliform CFU/100

ml

Sundarijal Oct 2017 2 7.58 - 20 ND NA 7.03 24 NA Nov 2017 32 7.52 6.4 18 32 79 NA NA 42.00 Jan 2018 1 7.75 4 7 12 46 NA NA 32x102 Feb 2018 4 9 4 5 6 32 NA NA 27x101

Gokarna

Oct 2017 10 7.22 - 28 26 NA 7.33 60 NA

Nov 2017 78 7.21 12.0 34 45 123 NA NA 22x103

Jan 2018 281 5.2 23 43 18 92 NA NA 40x105

Feb 2018 303 6.3 22 48 22 80 NA NA 20x104

Guheswori

Oct 2017 40 2.4 - 74 68 NA 6.96 140 NA

Nov 2017 34 3.30 22 64 12 136 NA NA 20x103

Jan 2018 171 5 13 76 22 170 NA NA 88x106

Feb 2018 270 2.3 60 152 122 278 NA NA 20x105

Aryaghat

Month

Parameters

Month

Parameters


Turbidity

(NTU)

DO mg/l BOD5 mg/l

COD mg/l

TSS

TDS pH

Conductivity


ml

Oct 2017 72 2.21 - 93 92 NA 7.23 146

Nov 2017 31 2.32 28 72 22 130 NA NA 42x104

Jan 2018 140 3.33 21 78 66 205 NA NA 72x105

Feb 2018 174 2 28 71 98 322 NA NA 85x103

Thapathali

Nov 2017 178 ND 228 350 222 312 NA NA 27x105

Jan 2018 281 nil 237 416 668 584 NA NA 23x107

Feb 2018 356 0 466 723 750 476 NA NA 80x106

Sundarighat

Nov 2017 266 ND 190 366 352 256 NA NA 56x106

Jan 2018 250 nil 243 370 422 680 NA NA 118x108

Feb 2018 312 0 394 457 366 744 NA NA 104x106

NDWQS Desirable limits, 2016

5(10) >5 <30 <250 - <1000 - - 0


76. Observations for Bagmati River Water Quality:

(i) The monitored results and trend Cleary show that water quality is much better at Sundarijal which is located before the Kathmandu city limits compared to other monitoring locations within city limits where water quality is deteriorated due to reduced water flow and sewage and other waste disposal to river

(ii) As per NDWQS, 2008, the Turbidity in all the locations is higher than the standards except in Sundarijal where Turbidity was measured 2 NTU in Oct 2017 and 4 NTU in Feb 2018.

(iii) Dissolve oxygen at Sundarijal and Gokarna is more than prescribed standard of 5 mg/l whereas the DO level is lesser than the prescribed standards at most of the other monitoring stations during leans period of April to June every year. Similar trend is observed for BOD5 which is an indicator of pollution level and is higher than prescribed standards of <30 mg/l at all the stations excluding Sundarijal and Gokarna.

(iv) Fecal coliform at all the locations are not meeting the NDWQS standards. (v) The river water quality further deteriorates with the pollution load carried by its

tributaries passing through Kathmandu city and laden with city sewage. The water quality level of two of its tributaries Bishnumati and Dhobikhola is given at Table 4.10 and 4.11 respectively for reference purposes.

Table 4.10 : Surface Water Quality in Project Area-River Bishnumati (Feb 2017 to Feb 2018)

Turbidity

(NTU) DO mg/l

BOD5 mg/l

COD mg/l


ml

Teku Feb 2017 800 Nil 436 780 -

Month

Parameters

Month

Parameters


Turbidity

(NTU) DO mg/l

BOD5 mg/l

COD mg/l


ml

March 2017

608 Nil 693 972 -

April 2017 438 Nil 354 526 - June 2017 366 Nil 492 700 - July 2017 354 Nil 126 300 - Sept 2017 502 Nil 88 200 - Nov 2017 556 Nil 373 604 70x107 Jan 2018 525 Nil 565 677 46x108 Feb 2018 506 Nil 573 1044 40x108 NDWQS Desirable limits, 2016

5(10) >5 <30 <250 0


Table 4.11 : Surface Water Quality in Project Area-River Dhobikhola (Feb 2017 to Feb

2018)

Turbidity

(NTU) DO mg/l

BOD5 mg/l

COD mg/l


ml

Buddhanagar Feb 2017 550 Nil 450 634 - March 2017 460 Nil 560 981 - April 2017 502 Nil 400 510 - June 2017 480 Nil 486 880 - July 2017 500 Nil 118 300 - Sept 2017 475 Nil 126 254 - Nov 2017 330 Nil 412 735 42x106 Jan 2018 577 Nil 489 625 42x109 Feb 2018 492 Nil 599 932 65x108 Dhobikhola Bagmati Confluence Feb 2017 590 Nil 401 740 March 2017 650 Nil 560 981 - April 2017 465 Nil 400 510 - June 2017 400 Nil 345 786 - July 2017 464 Nil 98 225 - Sept 2017 400 0.6 90 182 - Nov 2017 268 Nil 334 670 76x105 Jan 2018 426 Nil 486 594 62x107 Feb 2018 338 Nil 417 666 83x107 NDWQS Desirable limits, 2016

5(10) >5 <30 <250 0


9. Hydrogeology and Ground Quality

77. In the valley, there are three general hydrogeologic layers in descending order as shallow aquifer, aquitard and deep aquifer. Estimated thickness of shallow aquifer varies from 0 to 85 m, clay aquitard from less than 5 m to more than 200 m and that of deep aquifer from

Month

Parameters

Month

Parameters

http://bagmati.gov.np/


25 to 285 m.13 The shallow aquifer is thicker towards the northern part of the groundwater basin while the deep is towards the central and southern part. Total volumes of shallow and deep aquifers are estimated at 7,260 million cubic meters (MCM) and 568,13 MCM respectively. The ground water extraction is on increasing trend every year varying from 3.75 MCM in 1982 to 25.52 MCM in 2009 which is much higher than the recharge rate. As per an estimate, the entire ground water resources will be depleted in next 100 years if the same extraction rate is continued. With the increasing ground water extraction, the Static Water Level (SWL) is also decreasing fast. The SWL with depletion trend over years is given in Table 4.12. With the decline in water level, discharge capacity of the wells has decreased substantially. Discharge level of ground water potential is reduced by about 50% from 35.77 l/s in 1985 to 16.67 l/s in 1999 at Gokarna Water Filed. Similar trend is observed in other water filed in Kathmandu valley. Which is an indicator that valley cannot depend on ground water resources for water supply.

Table 4.12 : Static Ground Water Level and depletion Trend

Location Year SWL Year SWL Depletion-m

Gokarna Water Field (WF)

1999 16.41 2008 23.91 7.5

Gokarna WF 2000 16.60 2008 20.18 3.58 Dhobi Khola WF 1999 28.90 2008 30.73 1.83 Dhobi Khola WF 2001 3.89 2008 5.27 1.38 Manohara-Bhaktapur/Bode WF

1991 37.68 2006 42.0 4.32

Manohara-Bhaktapur/Bode WF

2001 93.33 2008 98.87 5.54

Source:, ��

prospects for sustainable management, 2012 by V.P. Pandey, S. Shreshtha & F. Kazamaa

78. The ground Water quality is considered good except turbidity and can be used for

drinking purposes after simple treatment. The ground water quality of Kathmandu

Valley monitored in 2011 is given in Table 4.13. As per annual report published by the

Environment and Public Health Organization (ENPHO) on post-earthquake groundwater

quality monitored between June 2015 to August 2015, the parameters turbidity,Iron, total

coliforms and E. coli were not found within the National Drinking Water Quality Standards

(NDWQS), in post-earthquake scenario. However, the parameters like total hardness, pH,

calcium and chloride contents, heavy metals like copper, chromium, lead and arsenic were

found within the drinkable limits.

13 �� !" #� #$% &$'$� ( )� *�+�,��" -.%/0��1�' % 2� '$ *�'$,��0 ��33 !4 5 6 3/7, �' �!��,28&" 8/�& 90 �8 &

and prospects for sustainable management, 2012.


Table 4.13 : Ground Water Quality Data of Kathmandu

Groundwater

Source

Temp ºC

pH Conductivity

(µS/cm)

Turbidity

(NTU)

Hardness

(mg/l)

Chloride

(mg/l)

Alkalinity

(mg/l)

Iron (mg/

l)

Arsenic

(mg/l)

Fluoride

(mg/l)

Total Coliform/100 ml of

water

Shallow well

18.6 7.1 874.5 45.9 230.7 81.8 366 1.47 0.004 0.43 267.2

Tube well 17.9 7.0 576.8 54.8 218.8 61.1 258 1.90 0.003 0.27 129.1

Deep tube well

20.3 7.0 704.2 33.2 251.2 59.0 302 1.80 0.009 0.74 148.1

WHO Guidelines

NA 6.5-8.5

500 5 500 250 NA 0.3 0.01 1.5 0

NDWQS - 6.5-8.5

1500 5 (10) 500 250 NA 0.3 (3)

0.2 0.5 -1.5*

0 in 95% samples

Source: Ground water quality in the Kathmandu valley of Nepal, Environmental Monitoring and Assessment · July 2011

10. Air Quality

79. The Department of Environment monitors the ambient air quality of Kathmandu City through network of monitoring stations. Department currently monitors only the particulate matters. The recent data for two monitoring station located in close vicinity is given at Table 4.14. According to the results PM10 level in the city is found high and exceeds the permissible limits of 120 µg/m3 which is an indicator of high dust level in the city which needs specific attention during construction period of proposed sub project component. Department of Environment also undertaken certain monitoring as part of study for preparation of Air Quality Management Action Plan last year. The Ambient Air quality monitoring results of this study for Ratnapark and Kathmandu City is given at Table 4.15 and 4.16 respectively. According to these results also particulate levels is found higher than the prescribed standards for almost all the locations.

Table 4.14 : Ambient Air Quality Data of Kathmandu City (2018)

Location Date PM10 (µg/m3) ( 24 hr average) PM2.5 (µg/m3) ( 24 hr Average) Min Max Mean 98

Percentile

Min Max Mean 98 Percentil

e

Pulchowk Lalitpur

30/04/2018 to

16/05/2018

35.3

135.8

78.5 130.3 21.9

48.0 32.8 47.1

Ratnapark

01/02/2018 to

28/03/2018

95.3

265.7

147.3

248.8 35.7

104.2

69.2 99.1

National Ambient Air Quality Standards

120 Not defined yet


Source: Department of Environment

Table 4.15 : Ambient Air Quality Data of Ratnapark (Jan to Jun, 2017)

Parameters 1-hour Avg

µg/m3

8-hour Avg

µg/m3

24 hours Avg

µg/m3

Annual Avg

µg/m3

NAAQS Nepal 24

hours Avg

WHO standards

24 hours Avg

Annual Avg

Total Suspended Particulate

76 535 346 526 230 - -

PM 2.5 25.3 27 47 38 50 75 35

PM10 38 198 133 180 120 150 70

Source : Department of Environment-Study on Air Quality Management Action Plan for Kathmandu Valley, 2017.

Table 4.16 : Ambient Air Quality Data of Kathmandu Valley (May, 2017)

TSP 24 hours Avg

(µg/m3)

PM10 24 hours Avg

(µg/m3)

PM2.5 24 hours Avg

(µg/m3) Bhaktapur DS 321 178 11 Godawari Harb 115 72 21 Gaththaghar 467 278 95 Budhanilakantha 518 336 1 Thamel 1289 696 147 Lagankhel 838 362 195 Chabahil 4749 2928 134 Mid Baneshwor 737 315 226 Sanepa 1232 545 115 Kalanki 1340 620 190

Source : Department of Environment-Study on Air Quality Management Action Plan for Kathmandu Valley, 2017.

11. Noise Levels

80. ��

Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu Nepal by Mohan K. Bhattarai and B.K Sapkota, ��

May 2018 which are given at Table 4.17 and 4.18 respectively. The monitored results are compared with WHO standards in absence of National ambient Noise Level Standards. The results indicate that Ambient noise levels is within the prescribed WHO guidelines at all the locations. No traffic noise data is available. However comparatively, traffic congestion and traffic noise is observed during field visits between Thapathali to Balku stretch.

Table 4.17 : Ambient Noise Quality Analysis, 2014

S.No. Sampling Site Leq dB(A) 1. Gothatar A 2 km from Thapathali 51.5 2. Imadol A 4 km from Thapathali 52.3 3. Balkumari 2km from Thapathali 73.2 4. Nayabasti 3 km from Thapathali 66.3 5. Gothatar B 2 km from Thapathali 51.2 6. Khumaltar 4 km from Tahpathali 50.8


Table 4.19 : Floral Species Around the Project Area

S. No. Species Habit 1. Agave americana L Shrub 2. Agave cantula Roxb. Shrub 3. Albezia sp. Tree 4. Alnus nepalensis D. Don Tree 5. Araucaria sp Tree 6. Betula alnoides Tree 7. Bougainvillea sp. Shrubs 8. Buddleia asiatica Tree 9. Buddleia paniculata Tree 10. Callistemon curis Tree 11. Caryota sp. Tree 12. Casuarina equisetifolia Tree 13. Cassia fistula Tree 14. Cedrus deodara Tree 15. Celtis australis Tree 16. Cinnamomum camphora Tree 17. Citrus sp. Tree 18. Cryptomeria japonica Tree 19. Cupressus torulosa Tree 20. Cycas revolute Shrub 21. Dalbegia sissoo Tree 22. Ebretia accuminata Tree 23. Elaeocarpus sphaericus Tree 24. Engelhardia spicata Tree 25. Erythrina crista galli Tree 26. Eucalyptus sp Tree 27. Euphorbia pulcherrima 28. Ficus auriculata Tree 29. Ficus bengalensis Tree 30. Ficus bennjamina Tree 31. Ficus drupacea Tree 32. Ficus elastic Tree 33. Ficus racemosa Tree 34. Ficus religiosa Tree 35. Ginkgo biloba Tree 36. Grevillea robusta Tree 37. Grewia asiatica Tree 38. Hibiscus mutabilis Shrub 39. Jacranda mimoifolia Tree 40. Juniperus indica Bertol Tree 41. Lagerstromia indica Tree 42. Ligustrum lucidum Aiton Tree 43. Litsea monopetala Tree 44. Magnolia grandiflora Tree 45. Mangifera indica Tree 46. Melia azedaracb Tree 47. Michelia champaca Tree 48. Morus sp Tree 49. Murraya paniculata Shrub 50. Nerium indicum Shrub 51. Nyctanthus arbour-tristis Tree 52. Osmanthus fragrans Tree 53. Phoenix sp Tree 54. Phyllanthus emblica Tree 55. Pinus roxburghii Tree


S. No. Species Habit 56. Pinus sp Tree 57. Poplus sp. Tree 58. Prunus cerasoides Tree 59. Prunus domestica Tree 60. Psidium guajava Tree 61. Punica granatum Shrub 62. Pyrus pashia Tree 63. Pyrus communis Tree 64. Salix babylonica Tree 65. Salix tetrasperma Tree 66. Sambucus Canadensis Shrub 67. Sambucus bookerii Shrub 68. Sapindis mukorossi Tree 69. Schefflera venulosa Shrubs 70. Small bamboos -- 71. Syzygium jambos Tree 72. Thrinax sp 73. Thuja sp. Tree 74. Yucca aloifolia 75. Zizyphus incurve Shrub

84. Apart from this there are various weeds in the study area which includes Acorus, Artemisia, Canna, Cassia nairobensis, Cestrum elegans, Cestrum sp, Colocasia, Daturas, Duranta, Eichhornea, Hedychium, Jasminium, Justicia, Lantana, Lycinum, Malvaviscus, Musa paradisiacal, Parthenium etc.

85. Since the project area is majorly peri-urban and urban, no wildlife was observed in the study area except at Mrisasthali hills and Gokarneshwar forest

86. Flora of Gokarneshwar religious Forest: Gokarna forest is sub-tropical forest type with dense and bushy vegetation. Gokarna forest consists of mixed broad leaved forest. As per study15 trees of 52 species exists in Gokarna Forest. Major species founded in Neolitsea cuipala, Schima wallichii, Ficus benghalensis, Acer oblongum, Ficus subincisa, Eurya acuminata, Dodecadenia grandiflora etc.

87. Flora and Fauna in Mrigasthali Religious Forest Area16: Mrigasthali religious forest jurisdiction lies to the Pashupati Area Development Committee. A part of the Mrigasthali forest is established as Mrigasthali deer farm in 2005 with 4.75 ha of area. The forest is both natural and plantation. The species selected to support deer farming are Tanki, Nimaro, Koiralo, Epil, Napier, Lapsi. But the survivability of the planted species was very low due to browsing habit of deer, and damage from monkeys. Majorly plant species found in Mrigasthali religious forest are Badare Jamun, Chilaune, Paiyu, Lapsi, Kaulo, Khari and Rudraksha. Animal species found in the project area are Ratuwa, Krishnasar, Chital and Monkeys. Birds found in the area are Kingfisher, Kaliz, Eagle, and Parrot. Major infrastructures present in the forest are Temple, Sheds, Ponds, salt licks for the animals, officer and workers shed. The Pashupati Area Development Committee is implementing the management of the deer farm.

88. The forest area contributes to the raising of livestock as the local communities collects specially fodder round the year. After the protection of the forest as the deer farming, the area has been conserved for the deer species which creates a good habitat of monkey along with nesting of various species of birds. Therefore, the deer species such as Spotted deer, Ratuwa,

15 Assessment of carbon stock in Gokarna forest, Kathmandu, Nepal, Sagar Dhakal*, Sanu Raja Maharjan1 , Prakash C Aryal, Department of Environmental Science, GoldenGate International College, Kathmandu, Nepal 16 Source: Urban Preurban forestry, 2008,


Figure 4.13 : River Quality Map (Red-poorest quality and blue-best quality)

Table 4.20 : Socio-economy of Kathmandu District

S. No. Parameter Description 1. Total Population 1744240 2. Male Population 913001 3. Female Population 831239 4. Population Growth Rate 4.78% 5. Population <15 years 414441 6. Population 15-25 years 435968 7. Population >65 years 70357 8. Literacy Rate 86.3 9. Sex ratio 109.8 10. Dominant caste Brahminhill-23.51% 11. Other Caste 76.49%. 12. Nos. of households 436344 13. Human Development index 0.634 14. Human Poverty index 22.5

96. Project area lies in the Kathmandu and Gokarna municipal areas. Data on the ownership of the houses is given in Table 4.21. Household size of the study area varies from 3.84 to 4.25. Data on household size is given in Table 4.22.

Table 4.21 : Households by ownership of house/housing unit in use

S. No.

Municipality Total Households

Ownership of Houses/Housing units Owned Rented Institutional Others

1. Gokarneswor 1,768 992 716 14 46 2. Kathmandu

Metropolitan City

254,292 82,336 166,610 3,052 2,294


Table 4.22 : Households, Population and Average Household Size

S. No.

Municipality Total Households

Population Average Household Size

Sex Ratio Total Male Female

1. Gokarneswor 1,768 7,508 3,777 3,731 4.25 101.23

2. Kathmandu Metropolitan City

254,292 975,453 511,841 463,612 3.84 110.40

2. Drinking Water Facility

97. Entire Kathmandu and Gokarna municipal areas have city water supply network. But due to insufficient supply of water, various households have their own wells for tapping the ground water to meet their daily water requirement. Details of drinking water facility in households are given in Table 4.23.

Table 4.23 : Drinking Water Source in Study Area

Municipality

Total household

Main source of drinking water Tap/piped water

Tubewell / handpump

Covered well/kuwa

Uncovered well/kuwa

Spout water

River /stream

Others

Not Stated

Gokarneswor

1,768 1,522 114 41 37 25 0 22 7

Kathmandu

Metropolitan City

254,292 163,339

18,574 10,890 1,341 4,830

52 53,275

1991

3. Electrification

98. Majority of the households in the municipal limits are electrified. Data on electrification of the area is given in Table 4.24.

Table 4.24 : Electrification Status in Study Area

Municipality Total household

Fuel usually used for lighting Electricity Kerosene Bio

gas Solar Others Not

Stated Gokarneswor 1,768 1,731 18 9 1 0 9 Kathmandu Metropolitan

City

254,292 249,949 747 1,066 105 282 2143

4. Education

99. There are various schools and colleges within Kathmandu and Gokarna municipal areas. Literacy rate of the Kathmandu district is more than 86%. Some of the major school and colleges in area are Durbar High School, Tri Chandra College and modern school. The second largest university of Nepal, i.e. Kathmandu University is located in Kathmandu.


5. Health and Medical facilities

100. Healthcare in Kathmandu is the most developed in Nepal, and the city and surrounding valley is home to some of the best hospitals and clinics in the country. Notable hospitals include Bir Hospital, Nepal Mediciti hospital, Tribhuwan University Institute of Medicine (Teaching Hospital), Patan Hospital, Kathmandu Model Hospital, Scheer Memorial Hospital, Om Hospital, Norvic Hospital, Grande International Hospital, Nobel Hospital, Nepal medical college and teaching hospital. The city is supported by specialist hospitals/clinics such as Shahid Shukra Tropical Hospital, Shahid Gangalal Foundation, Kathmandu Veterinary Hospital, Nepal Eye Hospital, Kanti Children's Hospital, Nepal International Clinic (Travel and Mountain Medicine Center), Neuro Center, Spinal Rehabilitation center and Bhaktapur Cancer Hospital.

6. Transportation

101. In view of the hilly terrain, transportation in Kathmandu are depended on road and air. Kathmandu is connected by the Tribhuvan Highway to the south, Prithvi Highway to the west and Araniko Highway to the north. The BP Highway, connecting Kathmandu to the eastern part of Nepal is under construction. The main international airport serving Kathmandu and Nepal is the Tribhuvan International Airport, about 3 kilometres from sub project area .

7. Solid Waste Management

102. Project area falls under Kathmandu and Gokarna municipal areas. In both Kathmandu and Gokarna area, door to door waste collection is practised. There are temporary waste storage centres at various locations in the municipal areas. Total waste generation of Kathmandu city is 750 MT/day. 7-% of collected waste is organic. Waste from the city is supposed to be transported to Sisdole landfill site. However, in reality substantial domestic waste is dumped in the river. Municipal corporations have started work of cleaning Bagmati river. No solid waste dumping is allowed in the river and that is being supervised by municipal authorities. Also, every Saturday, waste cleaning and awareness program is taken up by municipal authority and volunteers to pick waste from Bagmati river area.

8. Economic Development

103. ��

industry 15% and services (including tourism) the remaining 50%. GDP growth was 3.5% in 2011 and the economy grew by an annual average of 3.4% during the past five years which was led by growth in the service sector by 6% annually, whilst growth in the agriculture sector was only 2.6%. Per capita income was $642 in 2011 and has grown annually by 10.5% during the past five years. In 2011 the Human Development Index (HDI) of Nepal was 0.458, placing it at 157th position in the world.

9. Religion

104. Major religion in country is Hinduism followed by Buddhism. Other religions include Islam, Kirant and Christianity.

10. Culture and Heritage

105. Culture of Nepal is rich and unique in world. Kathmandu is the only city in World with maximum UNESCO listed heritage sites. Befitting a city that's a melange of religions, Kathmandu's two most striking World Heritage sites represent different faiths: Hinduism and Buddhism.


106. Pashupatinath Temple is the holiest Hindu Shrine in Nepal and the oldest-known temple to Shiva in the country, though most visitors don't come just to see a temple. Pashupatinath Temple is located on the banks of the Bagmati River, which flows into the holy Ganges River in India. Many cremation Ghats are also located along the river in Pashupatinath temple area. Other than Pashupatinath temple other important cultural sites include Bodanath Stupa, Changu Narayan Temple, Darbar Squares (Bhaktapur, Patan & Katmandu), Swambhunath Stupa, Kalmochan, Pachali, Teku Dhoban etc. Other than this there are several temples and monuments more than 100-year-old and are archaeological sites. Project area falls within the Kathmandu city. Detail of the ghats, temples and archaeological sites in the project area is given in Table 4.1 above.

11. Fest and Festivals

107. Most of the Nepalese festivals are religious. Important festivals of Nepal are Dashain/Dushhera, Mohani, Diwali/Tihar, Saraswati Pooja, Inder Jatra, Rakshabandhan, Bhai Doj, Janmashtmi, Kali Puja, Gai Jatra, Nag Panchami, Teej, Chhath, Kartik Poornima, Maghe Sankranti, Ganesh Chaturthi, Maha Shivratri and Chhechu. Other festivals include Nepal Sambat, Buddha Purnima and Maha Shivaratri. Major festivals celebrated within the temples and project area are listed in Table 4.1.

108. Bagmati River Festival: For conservation of Bagmati River, NRCT had initiated campaign called Bagmati River Festival (BRF) in 2001, its a two and half month festival launched every year on June 5th to mark World Environment day. The festival comprises of several events including clean-up campaign, tree plantation program, heritage walk, rafting for public, essay and photography competition at school levels, Bagmati eco-challenge, training on waste management to several groups of women living along the Bagmati river bank, school students kayak race, technical workshop on Bagmati river, sharing scientific findings of river, Bagmati conservation campaigns and rallies, anti-plastic campaigns, women for Bagmati cycle rally, exhibition of environment models , live music concerts, Bagmati friendship float, etc. This festival gives an opportunity to interplay science, sports, conservation education, recreation, music, religion and social activities to produce synergy in conservation and gives a unique opportunity to interact among peoples of different areas and profession.

109. Every year new programs are added, like in BRF, 2017, it was aimed to celebrate and conserve the sacred Bagmati River, to raise awareness about the degraded condition of the river and its tributaries within Kathmandu Valley, to notify change makers and locals of the conservation needs of rivers, and to pressure government authorities to revive the Bagmati to its original state. The festival was jointly organized by Nepal River Conservation Trust (NRCT), ��

organizations in Nepal.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Teej

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chhath

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kartik_Poornima

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maghe_Sankranti

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maghe_Sankranti

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ganesh_Chaturthi

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivratri

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chhechu

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buddha_Purnima


Table 5.1 : Project Activities and Identification of Impacts

Project activities Location Environmentally valued sites (religious

buildings/archaeological sites/ religious Ghats/religious plantation area

(religious forests)

Eco-sensitive

areas

Festivals Social sensitive sites/are

as (schools/hospitals/park)

Likely Impacts Remarks

Construction Phase Landscaping and Beautification of River Banks: � Construction and

reconstruction of ghats/footpaths

� Restoration/reconstruction of school building/toilet blocks/septic tank & soak pits/sheds/creation areas

� Plantation works � Miscellaneous works like

provision of dustbins/solar light/benches etc

Uttar Gaya

� Shree Sundar Devi Temple

� Saat Tale Temple

� Uttar Gaya temple (Uttara Bahini temple) & Kanti Bhairab Temple

� Hanuman temple

� Gokarna religious plantation (religious forest)

� Uttar Gaya Ghat

None � Nahan on

various days like

amavasya &

purnima (two

days in month), okhia

usi (March), ��

day

� Sanskriti School (Gurukul)

� Dust generation � Increase in noise

levels in surrounding areas

� Aesthetics disturbance

� Inaccessibility/restricted accessibility of ghats for religious and recreational purpose

� Soil erosion/siltation of water body if improper segregation of water and construction area

� Disposal of excess muck generated from landscaping and construction debris

All the impacts identified are site specific, short term (specific to construction period), reversible and manageable

Gokarneshwar � Gupti Ganesh Temple


� Gokarna religious plantation-(religious forest)

� Gokarna Ghat

None � ��day

(June-July)

� Teej (Aug-Sep)

� Sahayogi Multiple College




(religious forests)

Eco-sensitive

areas






� Mahashivaratri (Feb-

March)

Guheshwari � Guheshwari temple

� Mrigasthali religious plantation (religious forest)

� Gaurighat

� Guheshwari ghat

(All activities located within UNSECO Protected Heritage area)

None � ��day

(June-July)

� Teej (Aug-Sep)


� Balachautrdesi

None




(religious forests)

Eco-sensitive

areas




(Nov-Dec)

� Mahashivaratri (Feb-

March)

Thapathali to Balkhu

� Hanumanthan Temple






� Narayan temple

� Ram temple

� image of Ganesh

None � ��day

(June-July)

� Teej (Aug-Sep)

� Medanta Ortho care & Neuro care centre

� Vishwa niketan school � Advan

ce college of engineering and management

� Paropkar Materni




(religious forests)

Eco-sensitive

areas














ty and Women Hospital

� Shahid smarak park




(religious forests)

Eco-sensitive

areas






� Lakshminarayan temple

� RadhaKrishna temple


� Kalimata temple



� Puret Ghat

� Bhagawatshwar Ghat


Construction of WWTP � Construction of

underground WWTP building and tanks (2/3

Tukucha � Kalmochan Temple None None � Vishwa niketan school

� Disposal of solid waste littered along the river bank and

All the impacts discussed are site specific, short term




(religious forests)

Eco-sensitive

areas




of height will be underground)

� Installation of WWTP systems

� Landscaping on top and around WWTP building

� Setting up of Sludge digester facility on other bank of river and pumping of sludge to this facility from WWTP.

proposed WWTP site and likely to be generated

� Dust generation � Increase in noise

levels in surrounding areas

� Possibility of inundation of site during flood

� Soil erosion/sediment transport/siltation of river

� Site clearance & cutting of trees

� Leakage from sludge transfer pipe and contamination of river water

(specific to construction period), reversible and manageable except tree cutting. Compensatory afforestation should be carried out to compensate the impact Solid waste disposal at designated site and in controlled manner Covering of pipe,

Reconstruction and Restoration of Archaeological Monuments � Removal of certain

parts of buildings which has been renovated without ensuring

Thapathali to Teku

� Hanumanthan Temple



None � ��day

(June-July)

� Medanta Ortho care & Neuro care

centre

� Inaccessibility/restricted accessibility of visitors to the cultural heritage buildings to be restored/rehabilitated

All the impacts discussed are site specific, short term (specific to construction period),

Documents

43448-014: Bagmati River Basin Improvement …...Initial Environmental Examination Project No.: 43448-014 April 2019 Nepal: Bagmati River Basin Improvement Project Additional Financing