Kathmandu Valley Water Distribution, Sewerage, and Urban - Asian ...

Technical Assistance Consultant’s Report 

Project Number: 34304 

December 2006 

NEPAL: Kathmandu Valley Water Distribution, 

Sewerage, and Urban Development Project 

(Financed by: Technical Assistance Special Fund, Government of 

Denmark and the Cooperation Fund for the Water Sector) 

Prepared by: 

GHD Pty Ltd., Australia in assn with Integrated Consultants Nepal (ICON) Pvt. Lt. Nepal 

For the Ministry of Physical Planning and Works 

This consultant’s report does not necessarily reflect the views of ADB or the Government concerned, and 

ADB and the Government cannot be held liable for its contents. (For project preparatory technical 

assistance: All the views expressed herein may not be incorporated into the proposed project’s design.

TA 4893-NEP 

Project Feasibility Study 

APPENDIX 9 

INITIAL ENVIRONMENTAL EXAMINATION

TA 4893 –NEP: Kathmandu Valley Water Supply & Wastewater System Improvement 


Executive Summary 

Purpose of the IEE, ADB Policy, GON Acts and Rules 

1 The purpose of this Initial Environmental Assessment (IEE) is to examine the 

proposed infrastructure components for the years 2012 to 2016 to ensure that they will not 

damage the environment and to provide guidance for their planning, construction and 

operation. In the environmental assessment, potential environmental impacts are identified, 

their significance adjudged, and strategies devised to avoid these impacts or reduce them to 

an acceptable level. 

2 The Project has been classified by ADB as environmental assessment Category B. 

The impacts of providing infrastructure in the Project area have been assessed and the 

Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) Report and Environmental Management Plan 

produced. Studies were conducted according to ADB‟s Safeguard Policy Statement 2009 

(which came into effect on 20 January 2010) and the Government of Nepal‟s Environmental 

Protection Rules (1997) and Amendment of 20 August 2007. 

3 The Government of Nepal‟s legislation and ADB policy require that the environmental 

impacts of development projects are identified and assessed as part of the planning and 

design process, and that action is taken to reduce those impacts to acceptable levels. This 

is done through the environmental assessment process, which has become an integral part 

of lending operations and project development and implementation worldwide. 

4 ADB‟s Environment Policy is to consider environmental issues in all aspects of the 

Bank‟s operations. ADB requires environmental assessment of all project loans, program 

loans, sector loans, sector development program loans, financial intermediation loans and 

private sector investment operations. 

5 The nature of the assessment required for a project depends on the significance of 

its environmental impacts, which are related to the type and location of the project, the 

sensitivity, scale, nature and magnitude of its potential impacts, and the availability of costeffective 

mitigation measures. Projects screened for their expected environmental impacts 

are assigned to one of the following categories: 

Category A: Projects that could have significant environmental impacts. An 

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is required. 

Category B: Projects that could have some adverse environmental impacts, but of 

less significance than those for Category A. An Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) 

is required to determine whether significant impacts warranting an EIA are likely. If an 

EIA is not needed, the IEE is regarded as the final environmental assessment report. A 

Category B project may be classified as B-sensitive if it involves environmentally 

sensitive activities. Such projects require IEEs, but have the same requirements for 

disclosure and Environmental Management Plans as Category A. 

Category C: Projects that are unlikely to have adverse environmental impacts. No 

EIA or IEE is required, although environmental implications are reviewed. 

Category FI: Projects that involve investments of ADB funds to, or through, financial 

intermediaries. 

6 The Bank has classed this project as Category B and following normal procedures for 

project loans, an IEE was conducted. The project comprises water supply and wastewater 

infrastructure improvements. The initial screening assessments of the subprojects (water 

and wastewater) are outlined in the Rapid Environmental Assessments (REAs). 

7 However, the Government of Nepal (according to EPR 1997) requires that all water 

supply projects supplying drinking water to a population of more than 100,000, and the 

Appendix 9 - IEE Page I



connection of new sources; and waste management activities to be undertaken with the 

objective of providing services to a population of more than 10,000 require an EIA. 

8 The proposed project (Kathmandu Valley Water Supply and Wastewater System 

Improvement) is de-facto a part of the Melamchi Water Supply Project (MWSP). It includes 

sections of the Bulk Distribution System (BDS), Distribution Network Improvement (DNI) and 

Wastewater System Improvement (WSI) works included in the original MWSP. The MWSP 

was subjected to an EIA in 2000 and was approved by the then Ministry of Environment and 

Population, Government of Nepal and ADB. The proposed investments do not include any 

new infrastructure that requires a separate environmental examination. The environmental 

assessment, mitigation prescriptions and monitoring plan given in the EIA Report of 2000 

are still valid. It is therefore not necessary to undertake a new EIA for this project. 

9 The Kathmandu Valley Water Supply and Wastewater System Improvement is a 

project to improve water supply and wastewater infrastructure. Improvements in water 

supply and sanitation are urgently needed in the Kathmandu Valley because it is currently 

suffering from chronic water shortages and inefficient service delivery and lack of properly 

functioning sewerage systems. 

10 This Project is designed to raise the quality of the infrastructure and services of 

selected areas of the Kathmandu Valley, thereby increasing the Quality of Life of the people. 

11 The Kathmandu Valley has gone through a phase of rapid and unplanned 

urbanization and industrialization without adequate infrastructural development. It is 

currently suffering from chronic water shortages and inefficient service delivery. To improve 

the present conditions of water supply and wastewater services in Kathmandu Valley, GON, 

with the assistance of ADB, has embarked on a two-pronged improvement strategy that 

includes capital investments for infrastructure development, i.e. supply augmentation and 

system improvement and institutional reforms. 

12 The Kathmandu Valley is the most densely populated region in Nepal where the 

population has been increasing rapidly. This is largely in Kathmandu, which is the centre of 

administration, commercial, social and economic activities. During the last three decades, 

the growth in population has been significantly driven by in-migration. The in-migration is 

largely due to better employment and business opportunities, better educational and medical 

facilities, but also countrywide insurgency and security concerns of recent years. 

13 The rapid un-planned urbanization of the Kathmandu Valley has brought negative 

impacts to its overall development. Water became scarce as demand exceeded supply. 

Lack of operational wastewater system facilities converted the holy Bagmati River into a 

highly polluted watercourse. Congested and crowded roads brought hardship to travellers 

and road junctions became garbage dumping sites. Despite these negative impacts, the 

urbanization of the Valley continued at a similar rate for the past 10 years. According to 

urban planners, from urban basic service management and disaster relief management 

aspects, the Kathmandu Valley only has a carrying capacity of 5 million people. 

14 The existing wastewater treatment plants will be rehabilitated and upgraded and the 

sewerage network improved and expanded. Removal of septage will be done and treated in 

sludge drying beds at the wastewater treatment plants. 

15 The improved water supply system proposed under the project (2012 – 2016) will 

serve a total population of 722,053 (470,000 directly and 252,053 indirectly) in an area of 

1,700 ha with a minimum supply of 2hrs per day. 

Appendix 9 - IEE Page II



16 Detailed design will begin in January 2011 with construction scheduled to commence 

in February 2012 to be completed in 5 years by the end of 2016. The water supply and 

wastewater system improvement works consist of the following: 

(a) Water supply distribution, and 

(b) Wastewater collection, treatment and disposal. 

Environmental Impacts, Mitigation and Monitoring 

17 The environmental impacts due to the laying of pipes for the distribution of drinking 

water and the sewerage system are similar. Environmental impacts on the physical, 

biological, and socio-economic and cultural environments during the pre-construction, 

construction and operation and maintenance phases have been considered in detail with the 

mitigating measures. 

18 Potential environmental measures that shall be taken by KUKL/PID before the 

Project commences are: 

Training and awareness programs in health and sanitation, occupational health 

and safety measures (OHS), community health and safety and usage of water 

and its importance (water cost, savings, reuse, recycle, water pollution etc.) to the 

general public; and 

Technical training of supervision staff on plumbing, chlorination, water testing, 

pump maintenance and repair, treatment plant operation and electrical works for 

water supply and sewerage projects. 

19 The ADB safeguard policy statement (SPS), covering both environmental and social 

safeguards, requires stakeholder consultations. Also, Rule 7 of EPR 1997 (Nepal) states: 

“Provided that, whilst preparing the report of EIA, the proponent shall organize a public 

hearing about the proposal at the area of VDC or Municipality where the proposal is to be 

implemented and collect opinions and suggestions”. Several meetings, workshops, and 

focus group discussions were held with stakeholders, mainly technical persons to keep them 

informed of the Technical Assistance work and to get feedback so as to include them in 

project design, as appropriate. The details of the consultations are given in the 

Supplementary Report: TA Consultations. PID will also make copies of the IEE report and 

any other project reports for interested people available in the Nepali language. 

20 The Grievance Redress Mechanism as proposed in the Resettlement Plan is also 

relevant here. A Safeguards Unit (SU) is to be established within the Project Implementation 

Directorate (PID) and be headed by a Senior Environmental Engineer with adequate support 

staff. The SU will be responsible to address the issues and problems raised by the local 

communities regarding the loss of assets, water and sanitation etc. during the 

implementation of the project. The SU shall require the Resettlement / Social Development 

and Environment Specialist of the Design and Supervision Consultant (DSC) to assist in the 

handling of grievances and the community level stakeholders should be encouraged to help 

in the handling of grievances at the project work sites. 

21 EMP Consultants, as proposed in the Environmental Management Plan of the 

Kathmandu Valley Water Supply and Sanitation (Subproject-2) by PMU/KUKL (April 2009) to 

assist KVWSMB/KUKL for effectively carrying out the Environmental Management Plan 

during the construction of the Project, would not be necessary. It is suggested that 

Loan 1820-NEP MWSP Subproject-2 Design and Supervision Consultant (DSC) employ a 

full time environmental engineer/specialist to carry out the EMP. The EMP will be 

implemented for a period of 5 years. Most of the activities have been scheduled on a 

continuous basis. 

Appendix 9 - IEE Page III



22 Anticipated environmental impacts and mitigation measures have been proposed. A 

detailed self-explanatory environmental monitoring program has been proposed listing the 

environmental impact, its mitigating measures; the parameters to be monitored (including 

location, measurement and frequency) and the cost. The program will evaluate: (i) the 

extent and severity of the adverse environmental impacts as compared to what was 

predicted, (ii) how effective the mitigating measures were and compliance with the 

regulations, and (iii) the overall effectiveness of the EMP. The cost of all mitigation 

measures during the construction phase will be borne by the contractors with cost items 

included in the contract tender documents. 

23 KUKL/PID/DSC will develop detailed plans for mitigating and monitoring 

environmental impacts likely during civil work implementation. These plans will be 

incorporated into the civil work contracts. During civil work implementation, the costs will be 

assessed based on actual requirements. Before operation, KUKL/PID will develop detailed 

work plans for environmental management and monitoring during operation based on the 

EMP. These work plans will be submitted to the concerned persons. 

24 Costs for the general operation phase trainings of KUKL staff will be borne by the 

Project as a whole. The training requirements and costs will be determined by the CBP 

Team (Capacity Building and Private Public Partnership Support Team) which will be 

implemented before construction starts in 2012. Specialist training costs, such as related to 

wastewater treatment plants constructed on a turn-key basis which include design, 

construction and operation, will be included in the contract of the contractors. 

25 A domestic Community Awareness and Participation Consultant (CAPC) firm will be 

hired to facilitate community awareness and participation programs over the 5 year loan 

period. The cost for the public awareness specialist, support team, and IEC (Information, 

Education and Communication) materials has been estimated as $600,000. 

26 An independent Third Party Monitoring environmental consultant will be hired anually 

for the duration of the Project as part of the Benefit Monitoring and Evaluation Consultant 

package to monitor whether the EMP of the Project has been effectively implemented. The 

cost for the environmental monitoring for 5 years has been estimated at $10,000. 

27 All the costs related to cutting of trees (if there are any), their transportation to a 

approved location and works related to environmental mitigation shall be borne by the 

project itself. The new water supply pipeline to the reservoirs at Balaju WTP in the Nagarjun 

National Park will follow the existing track/footpath so as to avoid the cutting of trees. If 

during the detailed design, it is found that tree cutting is unavoidable, it is mandatory to plant 

25 saplings for every tree cut and maintain them for 5 years. The cost for the cutting and 

nurturing of 1 tree for 5 years has been estimated as $600. 

28 Overall, the impacts of the Project will be very positive, befitting the environment and 

the people. Some negative impacts are anticipated during implementation but in specific 

areas and for short duration (dust, noise, traffic problems, access to buildings etc.). It is 

expected that the adverse environmental impacts of the planned water supply and sewerage 

project for the Kathmandu Valley will in general not be significant and can be easily and 

reasonably cheaply mitigated and prevented through adequate mitigation measures and 

regular monitoring during the design, construction and operation phases. 

29 If the Project is properly implemented and environmental issues are duly considered, 

there will be a significant improvement in the health of the environment and people due to 

the proposed water supply and wastewater improvements and thereby an increase of the 

quality of life. The quality of the river waters in the Valley will also improve, when the 

wastewater is treated. 

Appendix 9 - IEE Page IV

Table of Contents 



Executive Summary I 

A. INTRODUCTION .............................................................................................................................................. 1 

B. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT ............................................................................................................... 6 

C. DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT ................................................................................................. 20 

D. ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES ............................. 38 

E. ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES WITH AND WITHOUT PROJECT SITUATIONS .......................... 65 

F. INFORMATION DISCLOSURE, CONSULTATION, AND PARTICIPATION ...................................... 67 

G. GRIEVANCE AND REDRESS MECHANISM............................................................................................. 71 

H. ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT PLAN (EMP) ...................................................................................... 73 

I. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS ........................................................................................ 106 

Appendix 9 - IEE Page v



List of Tables 

Table 1: Water Supply System Subproject Components ............................................................................ 15 

Table 2: Wastewater System Improvement Subprojects ............................................................................ 18 

Table 3: Details of Existing WWTPs ........................................................................................................... 19 

Table 4: Wastewater Treatment (by 2025) ................................................................................................. 19 

Table 5: Household profile in Kathmandu Valley ........................................................................................ 26 

Table 6: Household in non-farm economic activities in Kathmandu Valley ................................................ 27 

Table 7: Kathmandu Valley development indicators ................................................................................... 27 

Table 8: Slums and squatter settlements in Kathmandu Valley ................................................................. 28 

Table 9: Land use and land cover in the Bagmati River basin ................................................................... 29 

Table 10: Sources of drinking water ........................................................................................................... 30 

Table 11: Population receiving drinking water ............................................................................................ 30 

Table 12: Total number of schools by grades and levels ........................................................................... 31 

Table 13: Comparison of emission inventories in 1993, 2001, 2005 .......................................................... 35 

Table 14: Water quality of different water sources, Kathmandu Valley ...................................................... 36 

Table 15: Estimation of wastewater generation in Kathmandu Valley, 2001 .............................................. 38 

Table 16: Summary of mitigation measures for Water Supply Components .............................................. 41 

Table 17: Summary of mitigation measures for Wastewater System Improvements ................................. 48 

Table 18: Potential OHS (occupational health and safety) impacts and mitigation measures during pipe 

laying (water and sewers) ........................................................................................................... 60 

Table 19: Residual negative impacts .......................................................................................................... 64 

Table 20: Summary of household water use surveys in Kathmandu Valley ............................................... 69 

Table 21: Meetings, workshops, consultations and focus group discussions held..................................... 70 

Table 22: Monitoring Requirements (Water Supply) ................................................................................... 74 

Table 23: Monitoring Requirements (Wastewater) ..................................................................................... 84 

Table 24: Institutional/organizational responsibilities in environmental monitoring .................................... 98 

Table 25: Annual Environmental Costs ..................................................................................................... 102 

List of Figures 

Figure 1: Proposed Project Water Supply Components ............................................................................. 14 

Figure 2: Proposed Project Wastewater Components ................................................................................ 16 

Figure 3: Location map of Kathmandu ........................................................................................................ 21 

Figure 4: Longitudinal profile of the Bagmati River Basin ........................................................................... 23 

Figure 5: Grievance Redress Mechanism ................................................................................................... 72 

Figure 6: Monitoring system for Loan 1820-NEP Subproject-2: Kathmandu Valley Water Supply and 

Sanitation Project (KVWSSP) ................................................................................................... 104 

Figure 7: EMP implementation schedule .................................................................................................. 105 

Annexes 

Annex 1: Rapid Environmental Assessment (REA) 

Annex 2: National Drinking Water Quality Standard 2062 BS 

Annex 3: Tolerance limits for wastewater to be discharged into inland surface waters 

from combined wastewater treatment plant (generic standards) 

Annex 4: Acts and regulations in Nepal 

Annex 5: Schematic layout of Kodku, Sallaghari and Dhobighat wastewater treatment plants 

Annex 6: National ambient air quality standards for Nepal 

Annex 7: Recommended noise exposure limits for the work environment 

Annex 8: Recommended standards for vibration from construction sites 

Annex 9: Terms of Reference of DSC Environment Specialist 

Annex 10: UNESCO consultations 

Annex 11: Balaju reservoir and Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park 

Annex 12: Schedules 1 and 4 of the Ancient Monuments Preservation Rules 2046 (1989) 

Annex 13: Heritage Sites: Kathmandu Darbar Square and Patan Darbar Square, respectively 

Annex 14: PID Safeguards Unit TORs of Specialists 

Appendix 9 - IEE Page vi



List of Abbreviations and Acronyms 

ADB – Asian Development Bank 

asl 

BAP 

– 

_ 

above sea level 

Bagmati Action Plan 

BDS – Bulk Distribution System 

CBP Team – Capacity Building and Public-Private Partnership Support 

Team 

CDS 

CIAMP 

CIRT 

CITES 

CAPC 

CSOs 

DDC 

DWEC 

_ 

_ 

_ 

_ 

_ 

_ 

_ 

Continuous Deflective Separators 

Capital Investment and Asset Management Program 

Community Issues Resolution Team 

Convention of International Trade in Endangered Species 

Community Awareness and Participation Consultants 

Combined Sewage Overflows 

District Development Committee 

District Wage Evaluation Committee 

DNI – Distribution Network Improvement 

DSC – Design and Supervision Consultant 

EA 

EIA 

EIRT 

EMEP 

EMP 

ENPHO 

EPA 

EPR 

FSDED 

GoN 

HH 

– 

_ 

_ 

_ 

_ 

– 

_ 

_ 

_ 

– 

_ 

Executing Agency 

Environmental Impact Assessment 

Environmental Issues Resolution Team 

Environmental Mitigation Management Plan 

Environmental Management Plan 

Environmental and Public Health Organisation 

Environment Protection Act 

Environment Protection Rules 

Feasibility Study and Detail Engineering Design 

Government of Nepal 

Household 

HPCIDBC – High Powered Committee for Integrated Development for 

Bagmati Civilization 

HWUSRUKV 

IEC 

lpcd 

LPG 

– 

_ 

– 

_ 

Household Water Use Survey and Research in Urban 

Kathmandu Valley 

Information, Education and Communication 

litres per capita per day 

Liquefied Petroleum gas 

ICIMOD – International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development 

IDA 

IEE 

INGO 

– 

_ 

_ 

International Development Assistance 

Initial Environmental Examination 

International Non-governmental Organization 

IUCN – International Union for Conservation of Nature 

JICA – Japanese International Cooperation Agency 

JBIC – Japanese Bank for International Cooperation 

KUKL – Kathmandu Upatyaka Khanepani Limited 

KVTDC – Kathmandu Town Development Committee 

KVWSMB 

LICSU 

MD 

– 

– 

_ 

Kathmandu Valley Water Supply Management Board 

Low Income Consumer Support Unit 

Managing Director 

MLD – mega litres per day (1 mega litre = 1000m 3 ) 

MPPW – Ministry of Planning and Physical Works 

MOE 

MOEST 

– 

_ 

Ministry of Environment 

Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology 

Appendix 9 - IEE Page vii



MWSDB _ Melamchi Water Supply Development Board 

MWSP – Melamchi Water Supply Project 

NEWAH _ Nepal Water for Health 

NGO 

NTFP 

NWSC 

OHS 

PD 

PAF 

PID 

PPE 

PPP 

PPTA 

REA 

RBTS 

RoW 

RP 

RRP 

– 

_ 

– 

_ 

_ 

_ 

– 

_ 

_ 

– 

_ 

– 

_ 

_ 

_ 

Non-government Organization 

Non-timber Forest Product 

Nepal Water Supply Corporation 

Occupational Health and Safety 

Project Director 

Project Affected Family 

Project Implementation Directorate 

Personal Protective Equipment 

Public Private Partnership 

Project Preparatory Technical Assistance 

Rapid Environmental Assessment 

Reed Bed Treatment System 

Right of Way 

Resettlement Plan 

Report and Recommendation of the President 

RWSSFDB – Rural Water Supply & Sanitation Fund Development Board 

SAPI – Special Assistance for Project Implementation 

SDP 

SPAF 

SPS 

SWC 

SWNCC 

TA 

UDLE 

UN 

UNEP 

VDC 

– 

_ 

_ 

_ 

_ 

– 

_ 

– 

– 

_ 

Kathmandu Valley Water Services Sector Development 

Program 

Severely Project Affected Family 

Safeguards Policy Statement 

Social Welfare Council 

Social Welfare National Coordination Council 

Technical Assistance 

Urban Development Through Local Efforts 

United Nations 

United Nations Environment Program 

Village Development Committee 

WSI – Wastewater System Improvement 

WSS – Water Supply and Sanitation 

WSTFC 

WUO 

– 

- 

Water Supply Tariff Fixation Commission 

Water Utility Operator 

Appendix 9 - IEE Page viii

A. INTRODUCTION 



INITIAL ENVIRONMENTAL EXAMINATION 

1. Purpose of the Report 

1 The Government of Nepal (GON) requested a Project Preparatory Technical 

Assistance (PPTA) from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for “Kathmandu Valley Water 

Supply and Wastewater System Improvement” (TA 4893-NEP). The TA‟s purpose was to 

prepare a project feasibility study for developing a Capital Investment and Asset 

Management Plan, detailed design documents for improving water supply distribution in a 

selected area and for preparing an ensuing loan in the ADB financing pipeline in 2011. 

2 The main urban concentration within the Valley consists of the two twin cities of 

Kathmandu and Lalitpur followed by Bhaktapur, Madhaypur and Kirtipur. The project will 

focus on investment in the physical infrastructure. Suggestions will also be provided, where 

appropriate, for reinforcing the capacity building and institutional strengthening program of 

the utility operator, Kathmandu Upatayaka Khanepani Limited (KUKL) and state authorities 

being undertaken under the SDP (Kathmandu Valley Water Services Sector Development) 

Project Loan 2059-NEP. 

3 The Capital Investment and Asset Management Program (CIAMP) is prepared with 

the 2025 ultimate objectives of: 

Optimizing the existing water supply and increasing the availability of potable water 

supply until all registered Kathmandu Upatyaka Khanepani Limited (KUKL) customers 

have equitable and regular access, as per KUKL‟s license conditions and with the aim of 

access to water 24 hours per day to all consumers eventually; 

Facilitating the distribution of water from the existing raw water intakes, tubewells and 

water treatment plants, and the water treatment plant to be constructed under the 

Melamchi Water Supply Project (MWSP); and 

Promoting appropriate wastewater services, including septic tanks and other forms of onsite 

sanitation, as appropriate, for all registered KUKL customers, including the provision 

of sewerage services. 

4 The purpose of this Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) is to examine the 

proposed infrastructure components for the years 2012 to 2016 to ensure that they will not 

damage the environment and to provide guidance for their planning, construction and 

operation. In the environmental assessment, potential environmental impacts are identified, 

their significance assessed, and strategies devised to avoid these impacts or reduce them to 

an acceptable level. 

5 These strategies (called “mitigation measures”) are then carried forward into the 

Environmental Management Plan (EMP). The EMP assigns responsibilities, timescales, and 

performance indicators/standards for each mitigation measure – to make sure that they are 

implemented and not ignored. An environmental monitoring plan is also added. This 

nominates protocols and responsibilities for checking the operation of the project, to a range 

of relevant and agreed performance indicators. 

2. Basis and extent of the IEE study 

6 The Government of Nepal‟s legislation and ADB policy require that the environmental 

impacts of development projects are identified and assessed as part of the planning and 

design processes, and that action is taken to reduce those impacts to acceptable levels. 

This is done through the environmental assessment process, which has become an integral 

part of lending operations and project development and implementation worldwide. 

Appendix 9 - IEE Page 1

a. ADB Policy 



7 ADB‟s Environment Policy is to consider environmental issues in all aspects of the 

Bank‟s operations. ADB requires environmental assessment of all project loans, program 

loans, sector loans, sector development program loans, financial intermediation loans and 

private sector investment operations. 

8 The nature of the assessment required for a project depends on the significance of 

its environmental impacts, which are related to the type and location of the project, the 

sensitivity, scale, nature and magnitude of its potential impacts, and the availability of costeffective 

mitigation measures. Projects screened for their expected environmental impacts 

are assigned to one of the following categories: 

Category A: Projects that could have significant environmental impacts. An 

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is required. 

Category B: Projects that could have some adverse environmental impacts, but of 

less significance than those for Category A. An Initial Environmental Examination 

(IEE) is required to determine whether significant impacts warranting an EIA are 

likely. If an EIA is not needed, the IEE is regarded as the final environmental 

assessment report. A Category B project may be classified as B-sensitive if it 

involves environmentally sensitive activities. Such projects require IEEs, but have 

the same requirements for disclosure and Environmental Management Plans as 

Category A. 

Category C: Projects that are unlikely to have adverse environmental impacts. No 

EIA or IEE is required, although environmental implications are reviewed. 

Category FI: Projects that involve investments of ADB funds to, or through, financial 

intermediaries. 

9 The Project comprises water supply and wastewater infrastructure improvements. An 

initial Rapid Environmental Assessment (REA) (Annex 1) was undertaken and the Project 

classified by ADB as Category B and following normal procedures for project loans, an IEE 

was conducted. 

10 The impacts of providing infrastructure in the areas have been assessed and the 

Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) Reports and Environmental Monitoring Plans 

produced. Studies were conducted according to ADB‟s Safeguard Policy Statement 2009 

(which came into effect on 20 January 2010) and GON‟s Environmental Protection Rules 

(1997) and Amendment of 20 August 2007. 

b. National Act and Rules 

11 The requirement for Environmental Assessment in Nepal is established by the 

National Environment Protection Act (1997), and the procedures are defined in the 

Environment Protection Rules (1997) and its amendment of 20 August 2007. 

12 The Government of Nepal (according to EPR 1997) requires that all water supply 

projects supplying drinking water to a population of more than 100,000, and the connection 

of new sources; and waste management activities to be undertaken with the objective of 

providing services to a population of more than 10,000 require an EIA.. 

13 The proposed project (Kathmandu Valley Water Supply and Wastewater System 

Improvement) is de-facto a part of the Melamchi Water Supply Project (MWSP). It includes 

sections of the Bulk Distribution System (BDS), Distribution Network Improvement (DNI) and 

Wastewater System Improvement (WSI) works included in the original MWSP. The MWSP 

was subjected to an EIA in 2000 and was approved by the then Ministry of Environment and 




Population, Government of Nepal and ADB. The proposed investments do not include any 

new infrastructure that requires a separate environmental examination. The environmental 

assessment, mitigation prescriptions and monitoring plan given in the EIA Report of 2000 

are still valid. It is therefore not necessary to undertake a new EIA for this project. 

14 The Nepal Drinking Water Quality Standards and Guidelines (including standard 

limits, guidelines for the required frequency for water quality monitoring and the process/ 

schedule for taking the standards in active use in the country) were established in 2006. 

The Table of standards for drinking water and wastewater effluents are attached in Annex 2 

and 3, respectively. 

15 The legal provisions for environmental protection in Nepal are given in different acts 

and regulations in Annex 4. Nepal is also a signatory to many international agreements and 

conventions related to environmental conservation such as: 

(i) Plant Protection Agreement for Asia and the Pacific Region, 1956 

(ii) Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and ` 

Flora (CITES, 1973) 

(iii) Convention Concerning the Protection of World Cultural and Natural Heritage 

(World Heritage Convention), 1972 

(iv) International Tropical Timber Agreement, 1983 

(v) Convention on Biological Diversity, 1992 

c. Policies and Legal Framework of KUKL 

16 The Government of Nepal remains fully committed to the provision of safe drinking 

water and sanitation services for all of its citizens which are considered as a fundamental 

human need and a basic human right. The Government is committed to providing improved 

water supply and sanitation services of medium and higher levels that are commensurate to 

affordability of the townships. In the 1990s, political liberalisation and a focus on 

decentralisation saw important new sector actors emerge, namely community groups, local 

government and the private sector – including non-governmental organisations. However, 

the ever-growing urban population and increasing water demand has been placing a strain 

on the existing urban water supply and sanitation services. There have been a number of 

efforts to streamline planning and investment in the sector. Some of the major efforts are 

examined below. 

17 National Drinking Water Quality Standards (2006) provide details of the water 

quality standards to be applied to all new urban systems and complement the Environment 

Protection Act (1997) which requires an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) or Initial 

Environmental Examination (IEE) of all new projects and pollution control for all water 

resources. 

18 National Urban Policy (2007) highlights the historical imbalances and haphazard 

nature of urban development in Nepal. It views urban centres as catalysts for economic 

development linked to north-south and east-west access corridors and flags poor sanitation, 

environmental degradation and lack of services by the urban poor as requiring urgent 

attention. The Urban Policy proposes building the capacity of municipalities to plan and 

manage integrated local development activities including the preparation of urban master 

plans to be moderated by central and regional authorities. Private sector involvement and 

investment in infrastructure development is specifically sought. 

19 National Urban Water Supply and Sanitation Sector Policy (2009) was recently 

formulated to provide the overall policy support and guidance towards achieving equity in 

service delivery by ensuring that the financially marginalized households within the system 




areas are mainstreamed as valid customers of service through design and implementation of 

financial incentives where so required. 

20 GoN’s Local Self Governance Act (1999) provides the legal basis for the devolution 

of responsibilities and authorities for social, economic, institutional, and physical 

infrastructure development, including water and sanitation systems to the local government. 

While periodic district plans have been formulated in 52 districts, a decade long political 

conflict, including the absence of locally elected officials for most of this period, have 

frustrated implementation plans. 

21 The Government‟s 3 Year Interim Plan (2007- 2010) provides the most recent 

guidance on urban sector priorities highlighting, in particular, the need to address the effects 

of rapid urbanisation on service levels, water quality and scheme maintenance. It proposes 

the full integration of sewerage, on-site sanitation and solid waste management in all urban 

schemes and specifically endorses cost recovery from consumers. Local authorities are 

responsible for overseeing project implementation but with private sector organisations 

playing increasing roles. 

22 The Nepal Water Supply Corporation Act (2 nd Amendment) (2007), Water 

Supply Management Board Act (2006) and Water Supply Tariff Fixation Commission 

Act (2006) facilitate the improved management of Kathmandu Valley‟s water and sanitation 

services. These establish the legal basis for private sector management of schemes and 

independent fee setting and regulation and are applicable to all urban schemes. 

23 Nepal‟s procedures for environmental assessment of development projects are 

described in the Environment Protection Act (EPA), 1997 and the Environment Protection 

Rules (EPR), 1997 and Amendment of 20 August 2007. Projects that need EIA and IEE are 

listed in the EPR. In accordance with the EPR, the responsibility for undertaking an IEE for 

this proposed project lies with the Kathmandu Upatyaka Khanepani Limited (KUKL) / Project 

Implementation Directorate (PID) as the Proponent, on behalf of the Kathmandu Valley 

Water Supply Management Board (KVWSMB). Public involvement, including notification of 

stakeholders, dissemination of information and consultation is a requirement, particularly 

during the review and approval of the IEE report. 

24 The process for carrying out this IEE in Nepal is as follows: 

(i) The responsibility for undertaking and getting an IEE approved lies with the 

Kathmandu Upatyaka Khanepani Limited (KUKL) / Project Implementation 

Directorate (PID) (the Proponent) for the Ministry of Physical Planning and Works 

(MPPW) (the Executing Agency). 

(ii) The environmental assessments are carried out by consultants hired by 

KUKL/PID. (IEEs are approved by the respective Ministries. All EIAs are 

approved by the Ministry of Environment MOE). 

(iii) Public involvement, including notification of stakeholders, dissemination of 

information and consultation is a requirement, particularly during the review and 

approval of the IEE report. 

(iv) KUKL/PID prepares the TOR as described in the format of Schedule 3 of EPR, 

1997 and submits it to MPPW. 

(v) MPPW processes the TOR, reviews it and if not satisfied, returns it with 

comments for improvements. 

(vi) If satisfied, the Ministry approves it and informs the consultant through 

KUKL/PID. 

(vii) KUKL/PID will arrange for the study to be conducted by a consultant as soon as 

the TOR is approved by the Ministry. 




(viii) The IEE report will be prepared in the format as described in Schedule 5, EPR, 

1997 and in accordance with the ADB environmental guidelines. 

(ix) Rule 7 stipulates that a notice has to be published in Nepali in a national daily 

newspaper and also affixed in the concerned VDC or Municipality, DDC Office, 

schools, concerned individuals and institutions, hospitals and health offices, 

requesting them to give written comments and suggestions within 15 days 

regarding the likely impacts of implementing of the proposal on the environment. 

A deed of public enquiry has also to be prepared and included in the IEE report. 

(x) The IEE report should be submitted to MPPW through KUKL/PID. KUKL/PID will 

review the report and then forward it to MPPW for decision making. Both 

KUKL/PID and MPPW can send the document back to the consultant for 

revisions, if required. When approved, MPPW will inform the municipal 

authorities through KUKL/PID. 

(xi) In accordance with the provision of EPA and EPR 1997, KUKL/PID should 

implement the proposed Project only after the approval of the IEE report, which 

will be monitored and evaluated by MPPW through KUKL/PID. 

25 In this PPTA the requirements of ADB and GON have been combined and this report 

is based on the structure given by ADB. 

d. Objectives and Scope of the Environmental Study 

26 The objectives of the IEE: 

avoid costs and delays in project implementation due to unanticipated environmental 

problems; 

allow project proponents, designers, implementing agencies and funding agencies to 

address environmental issues in a timely and cost effective fashion during the 

feasibility stage; reduce the need for project conditionalities - because appropriate 

steps can be taken in advance or incorporated into the project design; 

provide an opportunity for public involvement in the planning stage of the project; 

facilitate early agreement on contentious issues; 

assist in the scoping process of Environmental Impact Assessment, if necessary; 

economise in the human resource and budget allocation for any subsequent 

Environmental Impact Assessment; 

determine if an Environmental Impact Assessment is necessary. 

27 IEE is a tool for incorporating environmental concerns at the project level and is 

carried out as a part of the feasibility study. The objective is to: 

provide information about the general environmental settings of the project are as 

baseline data; 

provide information on potential impacts of the project and the characteristic of the 

impacts, magnitude, distribution, affected groups and duration; 

provide information on potential mitigation measures to minimise the impact including 

mitigation costs; 

assess the best alternative project with most benefits and least costs in terms of 

financial, social and environmental aspects; 

provide basic information for formulating management and monitoring plans. 

28 This IEE is for the Kathmandu Valley Water Supply and Wastewater System 

Improvement proposed for the years 2012 to 2016 discusses the environmental impacts and 

mitigation measures relating to the location, design, construction and operation of all 

physical works under the Project. 




e. Approach and Methodology 

29 The background data for the IEE has been collected from ADB reports, literature, 

internet and documents, consultations, interviews of other organisations working in the area 

and the socio-economic survey carried out by TA4893-NEP for the Kalopul DNI Pilot Area, 

as well as through field visits, focus group discussions, and existing water quality survey 

reports collected from other organisations. 

30 The IEE was done by following the regulations of the Government of Nepal and the 

ADB environmental policy and guidelines. 

B. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT 

1. Existing Water Supply and Sewerage Infrastructure 

a. Water Supply 

31 The Kathmandu Valley water distribution network system is a very complex and ad- 

hoc water network system developed over more than 100 years. The present service area 

being served by the KUKL system in the Kathmandu Valley comprises the municipal areas 

of Kathmandu, Lalitpur, Bhaktapur, Thimi, Kirtipur and parts of adjoining Village 

Development Committees (VDCs) primarily around Kathmandu, Lalitpur and Bhaktapur. 

32 The water distribution system has been installed and expanded at various times from 

the days of the Rana regime in the country over a hundred years ago when the Bir Dhara 

and Tri Bhim Dhara Systems were developed. Subsequently, the system was upgraded and 

expanded in the 1960‟s with the assistance of the Indian Cooperation Mission. More 

comprehensive development and expansion of the system, especially in Kathmandu and 

Lalitpur, took place when the World Bank provided assistance to a series of IDA projects 

during the 1970‟s and the „80s through the Water Supply and Sewerage Development 

Board. The Board was subsequently converted into a utility corporation initially called the 

Water Supply and Sewerage Corporation and later the Nepal Water Supply Corporation 

(NWSC). In February 2008, the water sector assets in the Kathmandu Valley were 

transferred for operation to a government owned company called the Kathmandu Upatyaka 

Khanepani Limited (KUKL). 

33 From the 1980‟s till now, a number of investments with the assistance from the World 

Bank, Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and other donor agencies resulted 

in a more comprehensive water distribution system trying to provide services to the ever 

growing population of the Kathmandu Valley. Apart from external support, internally 

generated resources have also been utilized to cater to the growing demand - often in a 

piece meal manner. 

34 At present the water supply system has 30 surface sources and more than 50 

operational tubewells located in different parts of the Valley. The sources feed into 21 water 

treatment plants with a combined treatment capacity of 85 MLD and 42 service reservoirs 

with a combined storage capacity of approximately 40,800m 3 . Water is distributed to about 

2 million consumers through about 1,250 km of pipe lines, 170,000 private connections and 

1196 public stand posts. The system is being managed by 10 branch offices of KUKL with 

six of them for the Kathmandu Metropolitan City area and adjoining VDCs, one for Lalitpur 

and adjoining VDCs, one for Bhaktapur and adjoining VDCs, one for Kirtipur and adjoining 

VDCs and one for Madhyapur Thimi and adjoining VDCs. 

35 Deep tubewells are the main means of extracting groundwater for use in the water 

supply system. Out of 73 existing deep tube-wells only 54 are in operation at present. Most 




of the tubewells‟ electro-mechanical parts are in a bad condition with most flow meters 

missing or broken. The tubewells used to be operated only in the dry season in order to 

supplement reducing surface water sources, but, due to demand exceeding supply, they are 

now also used in the wet season. Total dry season rated production is 40.6 MLD with a 

reduced wet season production of 2.2 MLD. 

36 The present population of the Valley water supply service area is estimated as 2.7 

million with a water demand of 195 MLD. The total water production in the wet and dry 

seasons is about 140 and 100 MLD, respectively. The resultant water supply is constrained 

and intermittent. People in most of the areas get hardly one hour supply in every fourth day. 

37 There are many problems in the distribution system besides deficiency in water. 

These include aging pipes, high percentage of leakage and wastage, illegal and spaghetti 

connections; badly laid pipe lines, supply contamination, etc. There are also problems with 

production. The ground water is depleting due to over extraction and surface water 

catchments are becoming degraded. 

Water tariff structure 

38 The tariff structure had not been changed since 2004 until December 2009 despite 

the Water Supply Tariff Fixation Commission‟s (WSTFC) new tariff structure which was to be 

executed from January 2009. The tariff structure has increased the rate by 10% for 

households using minimum 10m 3 and 30% for households or industrial companies using 

27m 3 or more. In the case of non-metered consumers, the tariff rate has been increased by 

20% for supplying through ½ inch connection and increased by 30% for supplying through 

more than ½ inch connection. The tariff has increased by 16.7% for any additional m 3 for 

using ½ inch pipe connection and by 30% for all other categories. Water tariff has been 

increased to allow the government to award the tunnel construction contract for the 

Melamchi Water Supply Project, as tariff rise was a precondition for funding of the project by 

the Asian Development Bank. 

Water quality 

39 The most recent water quality assessment carried out by ENPHO (Environmental 

and Public Health Organization) published in the May 2009 highlighted the nature and 

problem of water quality in surface and groundwater sources currently being employed by 

KUKL. The most common and significant water quality problem in the existing surface water 

sources is bacteriological contamination, i.e. the presence of E. Coli in nearly all the surface 

water sources. This is mainly due to increased human activities in and around the water 

source intake areas. It was observed during the PPTA asset condition field surveys that 

most of the intake areas are devoid of any protection and open to public activities. 

Therefore, where it is feasible, the intakes should be moved to more secluded areas with 

less possibilities of contamination by human and livestock activities. Generally, the water 

diversion and abstraction areas should be fully fenced to prohibit un-authorized human 

access and activities. These protection works have been included under Loan 1820-MWSP 

Subproject-2. 

40 For groundwater sources in the Valley, ammonia and iron are the major problems. 

Of the 50 odd operational wells tested, water from 27 wells had ammonia levels above the 

recommended level of 1.5 mg/l. The highest recorded value for ammonia in a tubewell was 

109 mg/l and several were in the range of 80 mg/l. Wells in the Manohara well field had 

ammonia in the range of 4–15 mg/l. Tubewells under the Tripureshwor branch in Kuleshwor, 

Kalanki, Lagan, Tahachal, etc. had ammonia levels above 50 mg/l. Similarly, iron has been 

encountered in nearly all wells, with 48 wells having iron above the permissible limit of 




0.3 mg/l. The highest content of iron was observed in Koteshwor with 24.32 mg/l and there 

are a number of wells with iron concentration in the range of 10 mg/l. 

41 A couple of wells also indicated the presence of arsenic. It has been strongly 

recommended that these wells be regularly tested under KUKL‟s regular operational 

activities and possibly abandoned for drinking water purposes. ENPHO also tested the 

water samples for the presence of pesticides. Some of the wells in Bansbari and one in 

Jagati exhibited the presence of pesticides, such as, heptachlor and aldrin, which could be 

due to the use of pesticides in nearby agricultural fields. 

Unaccounted for Water (UFW) 

42 The cost of production and distribution of water is increasing annually. Although 

leakage has reduced in recent years to curb the financial burden; the loss is still estimated to 

be over 40%. The percentage leakage of water supply remains one of the main losses of 

revenue. 

b. Sewerage 

43 The oldest sewers in the core area of Kathmandu, Lalitpur and Bhaktapur were built 

during the Malla period for conveyance of surface drainage and domestic sewage. The 

outfalls were located in open fields and were used for irrigation purposes. The drains were 

made of brick and were rectangular in section (Binnie & Partners, 1973). 

44 The sewerage system of the core area was further developed during 1898 – 1950 by 

the Rana dynasty. The main sewers were made of bricks of circular section varying from 

600 mm diameter to 1500 x 1050 mm oval section. All the lateral sewers constructed before 

1960 were mainly for storm water drainage as water flush toilets were not introduced in the 

Valley until after 1960 (ITECO, 2003). 

45 In the International Development Assistance (IDA) projects undertaken during the 

first (1976 – 1983), second (1980 – 1985) and third (1980 – 1988) phases, a total of 30km 

sanitary sewers were laid and partially operated, two wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) 

were constructed at Balkumari (now known as Kodku) and Sundarighat (now known as 

Dhobighat). The Nepal Water Supply and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) also constructed 

main sewer. NWSC constructed about 35km of trunk sewers from 1983 to 1990. The 

municipalities also initiated public-private partnership (PPP) programmes with local 

communities to accelerate the construction of stormwater drainage. 

46 ITECO (2003) notes that in the 1970s, the Bagmati River water quality, aquatic life, 

ecosystem and surrounding environment was “generally satisfactory”. Aquatic life (fish, 

insects etc.) biological activities (food chains) were “well functioning due to the undisturbed 

river ecosystem”. At that time people used the river for bathing, ritual and other purposes. 

Since then, the environmental quality of the Valley has severely degraded rapidly. 

47 KUKL was established in February 2008 as part of the major institutional reforms in 

the Kathmandu Valley water supply and sewerage sector. Its license states that by February 

2014, all existing wastewater treatment plants are to be functional. It must also divert 

wastewater to wastewater treatment plants and run each plant to at least 90% of its 

hydraulic capacity. 

48 An additional KUKL licence condition is that by the beginning of the fifth year after the 

commissioning of the Melamchi Water Supply Project, wastewater services in the form of 

sewers or on-site sanitation should be made accessible to 90% of the population in the 

service area. 




49 KUKL is not currently responsible for the operation and maintenance of the 

Guheshwori Sewage Treatment Plant. This is under the control of the High Powered 

Committee for Integrated Development of the Bagmati Civilization (HPCIDBC). 

50 The wastewater service area is smaller than the KUKL water service area as it only 

includes the Municipalities of Kathmandu, Lalitpur, Bhaktapur, Madhyapur-Thimi and 

Kirtipur. The water service area covers a number of VDCs outside of the Municipalities. 

Wastewater services will logically be required in all urban areas regardless of whether an 

area is a Municipality or a VDC. There is strong correlation between this study area and 

zones adopted in the Bagmati Action Plan. The adopted 2009 population for the urban 

wastewater area is as 2.635 million. This is inclusive of the permanent and other population 

categories. 

51 Bagmati Action Plan: The High Powered Committee for Integrated Development of 

Bagmati Civilization (HPCIDBC) with the support of Nepal Trust for Nature Conservation 

(NTNC) and UN-Habitat prepared the Bagmati Action Plan (BAP). The Government of 

Nepal adopted and ratified BAP in August 2009. BAP is based on five Zones of the 

Kathmandu Valley, essentially following the surface water from upstream to downstream: 

Natural conservation core Zone; Rural Zone; Peri-urban Zone; Urban Zone; and 

Downstream Zone. Actions in each zone cover a wide range of activities to meet the 

specific objectives of each zone. A budget at 2009 prices has been set aside for each 

activity. BAP is intended as an adoptive document and as new information is available the 

intention is to update and adopt the plan. 

52 Wastewater related actions in Zones 1 and 2 include encouraging appropriate on-site 

and decentralized wastewater facilities like EcoSan, biogas and constructed wetland 

technologies. The PPTA prepared a Conceptual Wastewater Master Plan taking BAP into 

account. The BAP Zones 3 and 4 are especially relevant to the CIAMP. In Zone 3, 

wastewater actions focus on decentralized wastewater technologies. In Zone 4, the plan 

focuses on reviving the conventional sewerage system. The BAP recommended actions 

include: 

Rehabilitation of Kodku WWTP to cater for wastewater from the core area of Lalitpur, 

and Baneshwor based on the Feasibility Study and Detail Engineering Design 

(FSDED) (2003) 

Rehabilitation of Hanumanghat WWTP converting it into a wetland to minimize the 

operating cost 

Construction of additional WWTP at Guhyeswari 

Construction of Septage Treatment Plant at existing Guhyeswari WWTP site 

Development of Sallaghari WWTP 

Rehabilitation and expansion of Dhobighat WWTP based on FSDED (2003) 

Constructed Wetland Treatment Plant to serve surrounding settlement at UN-Park 

and WEPCO area (Kopundole) as demonstration sites 

Promotion of on-site sanitation with household and community level septic tank with 

implementation of faecal sludge management 

Promotion of DEWATS in institutions 

53 The key problems and their causes of the wastewater system are complicated and 

interrelated. Reasons for the poor condition of wastewater services are summarized below. 




i. Limited water for self cleansing: A key contributing reason for blocked 

sewers is inadequate flushing water to maintain self cleansing in the sewers and in 

some sections related to the hydraulic design assumptions inherent in the original 

sewer designs. This is directly related to insufficient quantities of water available to 

customers. – i.e. water scarcity. This issue is made worse by the poor solid waste 

systems which increase debris in the sewers. To separate and remove the solid 

waste from the sewers, Continuous Deflective Separators (CDS) will be provided to 

mitigate the problem. 

ii. Planning inadequacies and lack of commitment to meet plans: A number 

of Master Plans 1 have been prepared but none of them have been implemented 

because of low prioritization. Additionally, there are no plans of the actual sewerage 

networks. 

iii. Combined System: As was common practice, the sewerage was initially 

designed as a combined system to cater for domestic wastewater as well as 

stormwater. While there has been considerably more separate sewerage systems 

installed, connections of liquid wastes occurs in an ad-hoc manner to any drainage 

conduit – regardless of whether it is for foul sewage or storm water. Combined 

systems result in large variations in dry and wet weather flows and sewers need to be 

appropriately designed and managed for this large variation in flow. This is 

exacerbated by the poor solid waste collection in the Valley and numerous un-made 

roads from which sand and gravel are washed into the sewers. 

iv. Budget Allocation: 50% of KUKL water bills are intended as a wastewater 

service charge but only 20% of this intended amount is spent on sewerage network 

operation. It is widely recognized that wastewater collection and treatment, typically 

costs up to 50% more than a water supply system. With such a low budget allocation 

for wastewater management the system continues to deteriorate. 

v. Treatment Plants: Most wastewater from the urban areas is discharged 

partially (septic-tanks) or un-treated into the Valley water courses. Although five 

treatment plants have been established in the Valley none of them are operating 

properly. The perception is that the preferred system of waste stabilization ponds is 

not now favoured because of increased land cost, and advanced systems are not 

being constructed because of high capital and operational costs plus lack of technical 

expertise. The total present designed treatment capacity is far less than that required 

to serve the existing urban population within the Kathmandu Valley. 

1 Master Plan for Water Supply and Sewerage - Greater Kathmandu and Bhaktapur by Binnie and Partners (1973); Mott-MacDonald 

Program in association with Stanley International and Proctor and Redfern International Limited, 1984; Greater Kathmandu Drainage 

Master Plan Studies, by SMEC in association with CEMAT Consultants (P) Ltd, 1990; Halcrow Fox for Kathmandu Valley Urban 

Development Plan and Programs in association with Pak Poy and CEMAT, 1991; CES Consulting Engineers Urban Water Supply and 

Sanitation Rehabilitation For Kathmandu Valley Sewer System Rehabilitation and Extension Final Design Report in association with 

SILT Consultants and Multi Disciplinary Consultants and GOPA Consultants, 1993; Stanley, EAST & Mott MacDonald (1994) Bagmati 

Basin Water Management Strategy & Investment Program. January 1994; Bagmati Area Development Conceptual Master Plan, 1997, 

prepared by High Powered Committee for Implementation and Monitoring of Bagmati Sewerage Construction / Rehabilitation Project; 

Bagmati Area Sewerage Construction / Rehabilitation Project, 1998 later updated by the BASP; Detailed Engineering Design and Cost 

Estimate of Sewer Lines along Bagmati River (between Tilganga to Shankhamul and Teku Dobhan to Chovar), 1998 by Consolidated 

Management Services (CMS);Wastewater Management Plan Assessment by Metcalf and Eddy, January 2000;Feasibility Study and 

Detailed Engineering Design to Update Master Plan For Bagmati Area Sewerage Project (FSDED) prepared by ITECO, 2003;Special 

Assistance for Project Implementation (SAPI Phase II); by Japanese Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC), February 2004;Thimi 

Master Plan prepared by CIUD, 2007; andBagmati Action Plant (NTNC& & BCIDC, 2009). 




vi. Industrial wastewater pollution: Existing standards for industrial wastewater 

discharge are not being monitored or maintained. The Ministry of Environment is 

mandated to monitor industrial discharges. 

vii. Lack of wastewater connections: Although there is a legal requirement to 

connect wastewater pipes from a property to a sewer if the public sewer is within 

30m, few property owners are willing to do this. 

viii. Lack of coordination: Apart from KUKL/Sewerage Operation Department, 

various other agencies, such as municipalities and HPCIDBC are working on the 

sewerage sector in the Valley. They are not, however, properly coordinated. 

Sewerage tariff 

54 A sewerage tariff is charged as a 50% surcharge to the water bill wherever the 

sewerage system is available. However, tentative estimate of sewerage system coverage is 

only about 70% of the water supply system within the 5 municipal areas. 

55 The proportionate operating expenditure of sewerage and water supply was 

approximately 1:14 in the year 2008. Similarly, proportionate income of sewerage and water 

bill is approximately 1:5. However, in the budget for the fiscal year July 2009, sewerage 

expenditure is proposed to be increased by 500%; the actual financial statement of which is 

yet to be finalized and disclosed by KUKL. 

2. Type, and Need of the Subprojects 

56 The Kathmandu Valley Water Supply and Wastewater System Improvement is a 

project to improve water supply and wastewater infrastructure. Improvements in water 

supply and sanitation are urgently needed in the Kathmandu Valley because it is currently 

suffering from chronic water shortages and inefficient service delivery and lack of properly 

functioning sewerage systems. 

57 This project has been designed to raise the quality of the infrastructure and services 

of selected areas of the Kathmandu Valley, thereby increasing the Quality of Life of the 

people. 

58 Kathmandu Valley has gone through a phase of rapid and unplanned urbanization 

and industrialization without adequate infra-structural development. It is currently suffering 

from chronic water shortages and inefficient service delivery. To improve the present 

conditions of the water supply and wastewater services in the Kathmandu Valley, GON, with 

the assistance of ADB, has embarked on a two-pronged improvement strategy that includes 

capital investments for infrastructure development, i.e. supply augmentation and system 

improvement and institutional reforms. 

59 The Kathmandu Valley is the most densely populated region in Nepal where the 

population has been increasing rapidly. This is largely in Kathmandu, which is the centre of 

administration, commercial, social and economic activities. During the last three decades, 

the growth in population has been significantly driven by in-migration. The in-migration is 

largely due to better employment and business opportunities, better educational and medical 

facilities, but also countrywide insurgency and security concerns of recent years. 

60 The rapid un-planned urbanization of the Kathmandu Valley has brought negative 

impacts to its overall development. Water became scarce as demand exceeded supply. 

Lack of operational wastewater system facilities converted the holy Bagmati River into a 

highly polluted watercourse. Congested and crowded roads brought hardship to travellers 




and road junctions became garbage dumping sites. Despite these negative impacts, the 

urbanization of the Valley continued at a similar rate to the past 10 years. According to 

urban planners, from urban basic service management and disaster relief management 

aspects, the Kathmandu Valley only has a carrying capacity of 5 million people. 

61 The existing wastewater treatment plants will be rehabilitated and upgraded and the 

sewerage network improved and expanded. Removal of septage will be done and treated in 

sludge drying beds at the wastewater treatment plants. 

62 Detailed design will begin in January 2011 with construction scheduled to commence 

in February 2012 to be completed in 5 years by the end of 2016. 

63 Implementation of the Melamchi Water Supply Project (MWSP) Environmental 

Management Plan (EMP): The EIA of MWSP was approved by MOE in 2000 and the EMP 

prepared and approved in 2001. ADB and the Government of Nepal, recognized that it was 

necessary to change the scope of project implementation arrangement by splitting MWSP 

into the following two distinct Subprojects; (i) the Melamchi River Water Diversion Subproject 

(Subproject -1) covering all project activities in the Melamchi Valley including construction of 

a Water Diversion Tunnel and Water Treatment Plant at Sundarijal; and (ii) Kathmandu 

Valley Water Supply and Sanitation Subproject (Subproject -2) which comprises: 

a) Construction of a bulk distribution system (BDS) to transfer treated water from the 

MWSP water treatment plant at Sunariajal to service reservoirs strategically located 

in the Kathmandu Valley; 

b) Rehabilitation and improvement of distribution networks at primary, secondary, and 

tertiary levels including house connections plus the rehabilitation and improvement of 

existing water supply system intakes, transmission mains, water treatment plants and 

service reservoirs; 

c) Improvements of the wastewater system in a phased manner; and 

d) Development of a shallow groundwater well field at Manohara within the Kathmandu 

Valley to extract, treat, and distribute about 15 MLD and 25 MLD of water in the dry 

and wet season, respectively. 

64 KUKL, which legally commenced operation in February 2008, established a Project 

Management Unit to undertake implementation of MWSP Subproject-2 headed by the 

General Manager. Unfortunately, the General Manager was too overwhelmed by daily 

operational activities to be able to provide adequate attention to implementing a large 

investment project. The Government and ADB consequently agreed in April 2009 to 

restructure the Project Management Unit into a Project Implementation Directorate (PID) to 

manage and implement ADB assisted projects. The PID is designed to include a 

Safeguards Unit to monitor and evaluate all social and environmental aspects. A separate 

EMP (EMP2) for the Kathmandu Valley Water Supply and Sanitation Subproject 

(Subproject-2) was prepared and endorsed by ADB and KVWSMB in April 2009. 

65 To date (April 2010), the Safeguards Unit within PID has not been established. 

However, the EMP2 has been provided to the civil work Contractors engaged in 7 ongoing 

contract packages. Contracts were signed with the Contractors at different times between 

November 2009 and January 2010. So far only 2 contractors have submitted the EMEPs 

(Environmental Management Execution Plan). The interim Supervision Consultants 

engaged under Loan 1820 has advised the Contractors to submit monthly environmental 

monitoring reports; but none have been received by the PID. 




3. Description of the Project 

66 The purpose of the proposed project is to improve the water supply and wastewater 

system service delivery to ensure compliance of KUKL‟s operating licence. The project 

aims: 

(a) To ensure the availability of water supply; 

(b) To ensure water quality in the distribution system; 

(c) To ensure water quality at each water treatment facility; 

(d) Operation of wastewater treatment plants; and 

(e) Wastewater services. 

67 These service standards are based on the assumption that the Capacity Building and 

Public-Private Partnership Support Team (CBP Team) under Loan 2059-NEP would be in 

place within 18 months of the starting date. 

68 The Project consists of contract packages for the following. 

1) Water supply and BDS System (BDS); water supply reservoirs; water supply 

distribution network improvement (DNI), 

2) Wastewater system improvements (WSI), and 

3) Procurement of equipment, vehicles and materials. 

1) Water Supply System 

69 Figure 1 indicates the scope of the water supply components. Table 1 shows the 

nature and size of the various components of the proposed subprojects to be constructed. 

Some details may change (e.g. pipe diameters and lengths and locations) during the 

detailed design phase as this study has been done to determine the overall feasibility and 

costs. 

70 Water supply and BDS system (BDS): This component has been divided into 3 

separate packages consisting of the supply and complete laying of different diameters pipes 

including surface reinstatement works. The ductile iron (DI) pipes consist of pipes of 

diameters 800 to 1500mm (4.76 km feeder mains), 600 to 1400mm (14.21 km ring mains) 

and 800 to 1200mm (14.11 km transversal mains) and will be laid in trenches within the 

Right of Way (RoW) alongside the main roads in different areas of the Kathmandu Metro, 

such as, Naxal, Gyaneshwar, Dilli Bazaar, Bagh Bazaar, Anamnagar, Ramshah Path, 

Tripureswor, Lagan, Thapathali, Baneshwor, Maitidevi, Ghattekuls, Singha Darbar, 

Koupondol, Chakupat, Chyasal, Mangal Bazaar, Sundhara, Tangal, Lagankhel, Pulchowk, 

Gabahal etc. 

71 Water supply reservoirs: Five service reservoirs for service storage of treated 

water prior to distribution will be constructed at Mahankal Chaur II (30,000m 3 ), Arubari 

(8,000m 3 ), Bansbari (10,000m 3 ), Balaju (Construction of a 4,000 m 3 reservoir on new 

acquired land in Balaju and an additional 8,000 m 3 reservoir will be constructed after 

dismantling the existing reservoir) and Khumaltar (8,000m 3 ) on previously acquired land 

(owned by KVWSMB). 

72 Water supply distribution network improvement (DNI): New distribution pipes to 

supply treated water to customers in Kathmandu and Lalitpur will replace the existing pipes 

and expand the network into new areas which will be laid in trenches along public roads. 




For the Kathmandu Metro Zone, which is the main supply area of water from Melamchi, an 

approximate estimation of distribution system pipe network details with types, sizes and 

lengths are given below. 

73 All pipes 150 mm diameter and above shall be ductile iron (DI). The distribution 

pipelines for Kathmandu Metro for the 9 sub-zones will range from pipe sizes 75 to 140 mm 

and be uPVC (Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride) or PE (Polyethylene). The total estimated 

pipe length of such pipes is about 384 km. Larger diameter pipes of sizes 150 – 600 mm, 

acting as feeder mains and distribution mains will be DI, the total length being about 33 km. 

74 The improved water supply system under the project will serve a total population of 

722,053 (470,000 directly and 252,053 indirectly) in an area of 1,700 ha. Table 1 shows the 

components of the scheme that have been assessed in this IEE. 

75 The system covers most of the core areas of Kathmandu Metro, either directly or 

indirectly. All the potential distribution mains located at Narayan Gopal Chowk, Balaju, 

Gaushala, Ekantakuna and Pulchowk will be connected with the corresponding transversal 

and service mains (distribution mains). 

76 There are 9 sub-zone service areas for DNI (Figure 1) under the project. However, 

20 other sub-zone service areas will have indirect benefits from the improvement works due 

to the bulk distribution system feeding into the existing distribution network. This includes 

the water scarce areas in the west of Kathmandu through interconnection with the existing 

400 mm diameter service main from the Balaju Service Reservoir, which would be used to 

boost the supply in Chhauni, Dallu and the Chhetrapati areas. 

Figure 1: Proposed Project Water Supply Components 


Table 1: Water Supply System Subproject Components 

Infrastructure Function Description Location 

a. Service reservoirs 

b. Feeder mains 

c. Ring main 

d. Transversal main 

e. Distribution pipes 

Temporary storage 

of treated water 

prior to distribution 

Transfer water from 

the ring main to the 

service reservoirs at 

Bansbari, Balaju 

and Khumaltar 

Transfer water 

along the Ring 

Road to Kathmandu 

Metropolis 

Transfer water from 

the ring mains to 

the supply zones or 

the main distribution 

service area 

Distribute treated 

water to customers, 

replacing existing 

pipes and 

expanding the 

network into new 

areas 

Construction of 5 reservoirs (2 nos. 

8,000 m 3 , 1 no.10,000 m 3 , 1 

no.12,000 m 3 , 1 no. 30,000 m 3 ) 

4.78 km of 800 to 1500 mm dia. DI 

pipe 

14.21 km of 600 to 1200 mm dia. 

DI pipe 

14.11 km of 800 to 1000 mm dia. 

DI pipe 

1.All pipes 150mm diameter or 

above will be DI; distribution pipes 

will range from 75 to 140mm 

diameter and will be of UPVC or 

PE of about 2,257 km 

2. Pipes 150-600mm diameter 

acting as trunk mains and 

distribution mains will be of DI of 

about 291km 



1. Construction of Mahankal Chaur II 30,000m 3 capacity service reservoir near Arubari 

on previously acquired land 

2.Construction of 8,000m 3 capacity service reservoir on previously acquired land in 

Arubari 

3. Construction of 10,000 m 3 capacity service reservoir on previously acquired land in 

Bansbari 

4. Construction of a 4,000 m 3 reservoir on new acquired land in Balaju and an 

additional 8,000 m 3 reservoir will be constructed after dismantling the existing reservoir 

5.Construction of 8,000m 3 capacity service reservoir on previously acquired land to 

serve sub-zone A-8.5 at Khumaltar 

Supply and complete laying including surface improvement works in trenches in the 

Right of Way (RoW) alongside main roads: 

1. Narayan Gopal Chowk Ring Main to Bansbari 

2. Ring Main to Balaju reservoir (feeder main goes through forest land) 

3. Ring Main to Khumaltar reservoir 



1) Chabahil to Narayan Gopal Chowk and Narayan Gopal Chowk to Balaju, 

2) Chabahil to Gaushala and Tinkune to Ekantakuna 



1. Gaushala to Baneshwar 

2. Thapathali to Tinkune 

3. Thapathali to Ekantakuna 

4. Balaju to Lainchaur 

5. Lainchaur to Thapathali 


alongside public roads in: 

1. Sub-zone A-3.1 (169.78ha., 17,485 pop. 2015) 






7. Sub-zone A-7 (209.84ha., 58,227 pop. 2015) 




2) Wastewater System 



77 Figure 2 indicates the scope of the wastewater components. Table 2 shows the 

nature and size of the various components of the proposed subprojects to be constructed. 

Some details may change (e.g. pipe diameters and lengths and locations) during the 

detailed design phase as this study has been done to determine the overall feasibility and 

costs. 

78 The DSC under loan 1820-NEP will initiate the process of cleaning and rehabilitating 

all existing blocked sewers using high pressure jetting equipment or other methods and 

recording asset information and condition assessments. From this information a Sewerage 

Network Development Plan will be prepared. 

79 The sewerage network will be developed by connecting un-sewered areas to the 

system and new collectors and trunk sewers will be constructed. New sewers will be 

designed predominantly for dry weather flow so as to reduce costs. Septic tanks will be 

decommissioned under the sewerage network development packages of the Project. The 

cost of connection and removal of the septic tanks etc. will be part of the civil works 

contract. The EMP will ensure sterilization and hygienic safe disposal of the contaminated 

materials. There will need to be close coordination / cooperation from the property owner 

since this work will be done on private land. 

80 Storm water regulators and weirs will be provided to ensure maximum solid and 

organic loads continue to the interceptor sewers for treatment. A pilot study will be 

conducted using Combined Sewage Overflows (CSOs) and Continuous Deflective 

Separation (CDS) devices to ascertain their suitability for wet weather overflows to surface 

streams. 

Figure 2: Proposed Project Wastewater Components 




81 HPCIDBC will be responsible for constructing interceptor sewers alongside the 

valley rivers under the Bagmati Action Plan. Preliminary designs of the interceptors (up to 

1500mm diameters) along all the rivers of the Valley have been completed. 

82 All treatment plants (Tables 2 and 3) will be designed for an ultimate minimum 50/50 

effluent (50mg/l BOD5 and 50 mg/l SS. However, the initial stages of the Dhobighat WWTP 

will be to a lower standard (provisionally set at 130 mg/l BOD5) so as to reduce costs of 

treatment. Since the Dhobighat WWTP is at the lower end of the Kathmandu Valley, the 

effluent will undergo self-purification downstream. All effluents from the other treatment 

plants upstream of Dhobighat WWTP will be treated to meet the BOD5 standard of 50 mg/l. 

Later after 2016, the effluent BOD from the Dhobighat WWTP will also meet the 50 mg/l 

standard. Table 4 gives the wastewater treatment by the year 2025. 

83 The wastewater component has been divided into 5 separate packages. Four 

existing wastewater treatment plants (Hanumanghat, Sallaghari, Kodku and Dhobighat) will 

be rehabilitated/upgraded/reconstructed. The works will consist of cleaning, sludge 

removal, repair works, upgrading of treatment processes to cater for increased population, 

and establishment of environmental buffer zones. Septage treatment facilities will be 

incorporated in the upgrading of the Kodku, Sallaghari and Dhobighat WWTPs. The south 

and north collectors of Bhaktapur will be cleaned and rehabilitated or reconstructed. Sewer 

lines from suitable catchments will be diverted by gravity to the Dhobighat WWTP. 

84 It is proposed to rehabilitate Hanumanghat WWTP at Bhaktapur. The rehabilitation 

includes de-sludging of existing ponds, fencing and some civil works. The upgrading of the 

existing WWTP stabilization ponds at Kodku (Patan), Sallaghari (Bhaktapur) and Dhobighat 

(Kathmandu) will use activated sludge processes (e.g. oxidation ditches, or tower bio-filters 

supported by UASB (upflow anaerobic sludge blanket reactors). The Loan 1820-NEP 

Design and Supervision Consultant will carry out the process design of these plants. The 

preliminary / schematic layout plans of Kodku, Sallaghari and Dhobighat WWTPs are 

attached (Annex 5). Sludge drying beds have been provided. 


Table 2: Wastewater System Improvement Subprojects 



Infrastructure Function Description Location 

Wastewater 

Wastewater treatment plants improvements/upgrading 

a. Wastewater treatment 

plants 

Treatment of domestic 

wastewater. 

Rehabilitation of existing sewerage system 

a. Rehabilitation/reconstruction 

of collectors 

Rehabilitate and develop 

gravity sewerage 

catchment 

Rehabilitation of existing sewerage system 

a. Sewerage system Cleaning and increasing 

flow 

Sewerage network development 

a. Sewer backlog works 

Connection to unsewered 

properties in sewered 

areas 

Rehabilitation/reconstruction: Cleaning, sludge removal and other 

repair works, treatment processes to be upgraded to suit increased 

population, establishment of buffer zones; septage treatment plant 

to be incorporated in the upgrading of Kodku WWTP (capacity 

150,000 persons); septage treatment plant to be incorporated in the 

upgrading of Dhobighat WWTP (capacity 40,000 p.e.) within existing 

site including buffer zone; septage treatment plant to be incorporated 

in the upgrading of Sallaghari WWTP (capacity 150,000 p.e.); 

rehabilitation of Hanumanghat WWTP (capacity 2,000 p.e.) 

1.Cleaning, removal of sludge and other repair works of north 

(rehabilitation) and south (re-construction) collectors 

2. Diversion of sewer lines from suitable catchment by gravity to 

Dhobighat WWTP 

1. Hanumanghat WWTP 

2. Sallaghari WWTP 

3. Kodku WWTP 

4. Dhobighat WWTP 

1. Bhaktapur 

2. Dhobighat 

Rehabilitation of sewer lines and manholes Areas with sewers 

Unsewered areas will be connected to the system as planned in 

certain areas 

b. Collection system Increase sewage collection Expansion of existing collection system for 240,000 pop. based on 

surveys and development plans prepared under Loan 1820 

c. New collectors 

(KVWSWSIP) and 

trunk sewers (BAP) 

d. Pilot chambers CSO 

CDS filter 

Increase sewerage service Sewerage network plan to be developed under Loan 1820 

Removal of solids from 

wastewater/stormwater 

Locations to be determined after surveys 



Design and Supervision Consultant (DSC) will specify sites Piloting 'combined sewer overflow' (CSO) 

chambers and 'continuous deflective 

separation' (CDS) devices 




Table 3: Details of Existing WWTPs 

S.No. Infrastructure Kodku WWTP Sallaghari WWTP Dhobighat 

WWTP 

1 Major structures -Inlet 

-Grit Chamber 

-Bar Screen 

-Parshal Flume 

-Distribution 

Chamber 

-2 primary ponds 

-1 secondary pond 

-1 Tertiary pond 

-Disinfection Unit 

-Outlet 

-Guard House 

-Inlet 

-Grit Chamber 

-Bar Screen 



Chamber 

-1 primary pond 

-2 secondary ponds 

-1 tertiary pond 

-Sludge Polder 

-Laboratory 

-Pump house 

-Guard House 

-Inlet 

-Grit Chamber 

-Bar Screen 



Chamber 

-2 primary 

ponds 

-1 secondary 

pond 

-1 Tertiary 

pond 

-Outlet 

-Guard House 

Table 4: Wastewater Treatment (by 2025) 

SNo. Infrastructure Kodku WWTP Sallaghari 

WWTP 

Hanumanghat 

WWTP 

-Inlet 


Chamber 

-2 primary ponds 

-2 secondary 

ponds 

-Outlet 

-Guard House 

Dhobighat WWTP Hanumanghat WWTP 

Operated by KUKL KUKL KUKL KUKL 

1 Reported existing 

capacity (established 

year/type) 

2 Proposed Nominal 

capacity (for 2025) 

1.1 MLD (1982, 

Waste 

stabilization 

pond), 6.5ha 

150,000 persons 

(~17 MLD) 

3 Aeration reactors 3 nos. 130 x 37m 

each 

4 Clarifiers 3 nos. 20m 

diameter 

2 MLD (1983, 

aerated 

lagoon), 

3.4ha 

150,000 

persons 

(~17 MLD) 

4 nos. 112 x 

32m 

4 nos. 18m 

diameter 

5 Sludge drying bed 10 nos. 40 x 4.5m 2nos. 105 x 

30m 

6 Septage treatment 

plant 

2 nos. 50 x 50m 1 no. 50 x 

50m 

7 Inlet 40 x 15m 40 x 15m 

15.4 MLD (1982 

waste stabilization 

pond), 30.5ha 

1,000,000 persons 

(~120 MLD) 

20 nos. 130 x 37m 

20 nos. 28m 

diameter 

60 nos. 40 x 16m 

1 no. 100 x 50m 

8 Utility building 40 x 15m 40 x 15m 40 x 15m 

9 Control room 20 x 20m 20 x 20m 20 x 20m 

10 Workshop building Included in Utility 

Building 

Included in 

Utility Building 

20 x 20m 

0.5 MLD (1975, aerated 

lagoon), 0.3ha 

capacity 150000 equivalent 

persons 

Possibility of expansion and 

upgrading is very minimum. 

So only desludging of the 

existing ponds, cleaning of 

connection pipes, fencing and 

some other civil works 

11 Interceptors HPCIDBC has been assigned to deal with Interceptors along all the rivers of the Valley. 

Preliminary sizing has been done (preliminary design of interceptors up to 1500mm has 

been done by this Project) 

12 Proposed 

improvements 

Existing system 

will be upgraded 

to the activated 

sludge process 

Existing 

system will be 

upgraded to 

the activated 

sludge 

process 

Existing system will 

be upgraded to the 

activated sludge 

process 

3) Procurement of Equipment, Vehicles and Materials 

Will be rehabilitated and 

existing process will be 

continued. 

85 Procurement consists of the purchases of spare pipes and fittings for repairs, a small 

trench excavator, sewer cleaning equipment and vehicles (for field visits). 




C. DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT 


86 Geographically, the Kathmandu Valley (Figure 3) lies between latitudes 27º35‟ to 

27º48‟N and longitudes 85º12‟ to 85º33‟E. The altitude of the district ranges between 1372- 

2732m above mean sea level. The major rivers flowing in the district are the Bagmati River, 

Bishnumati River and Manohara River. The length of Bagmati River within Kathmandu 

Valley is 28 km. The Bishnumati, Manohara, Dhobikhola, Nagmati and Balkhu rivers are the 

main tributaries of the Bagmati River. The Bagmati River is important not only from the view 

point of consumption of water but also from the religious point of view. One of the most 

famous temples of the Hindus (the Pashupati Nath Temple) is located on the banks of the 

Bagmati River. 

87 Bhaktapur one of the adjoining cities of Kathmandu is located between latitudes 27º 

37‟ to 27º44‟N and longitudes 85º 02‟ to 85º 32‟E. It is bounded by Kavrepalanchowk in the 

east, Kathmandu and Lalitpur in the west, Kathmandu in the north and Kavrepalanchowk 

and Lalitpur in the south. The average elevation ranges from 1372 to 2166 m above mean 

sea level. Rivers and streams are the predominant water resource in the Bhaktapur district. 

The main river in the district is the Hanumanate and Manohara rivers. The Bagmati River 

as such does not flow through Bhaktapur but the Manohara and Hanumante both are the 

major tributaries of the Bagmati River. 

88 Lalitpur is another adjoining city of Kathmandu and is located between latitudes 

27º22 to 28º50‟N and longitudes 85º14‟ to 85º26‟E. It is bounded by Kavrepalanchowk in 

the east; Makwanpur in the west and south; Bhaktapur and Kathmandu in the north. The 

Bagmati River flows as the boundary between Lalitpur and Kathmandu. The major tributary 

of the Bagmati River in the Lalitpur district is the Nakkhu Khola. 

89 The Kathmandu Valley is accessible by major roads to different parts of the country 

and to India in the South and Tibet in the North. Kathmandu has an airport that caters for 

national and international airlines to many parts of the country and abroad. 

Physical Resources 

Topography 

90 The Kathmandu Valley is about 1300 meter above mean sea level with an area of 

about 340sq.km. The Valley has a bowl-like structure surrounded by high hills and the 

altitudes from the Valley floor vary between 500 to 1400 m. It lies between the Himalayas in 

the north and the Mahabharat range in the south. The prominent boundary features of the 

Valley are Phulchowki Hill (3,132m) in the southwest, Shivapuri (2713m) in the north, Chapa 

Devi (2,400m) in the southwest and Nagarjun (2,100m) in the west. The major rivers flowing 

in the district are the Bagmati River, Bishnumati River and Manohara River. 

Geology and soils 

91 The Kathmandu Valley is a synclinal tectonic basin consisting of fluvio-lacustrine 

deposits from the Pleistocene age resting on top of Precambrian metamorphic bedrock. In 

Kathmandu Municipality the Gokarna and Kalimati formations are predominant, Gokarna to 

the northeast and Kalimati to the southwest. Bhaktapur city is located on a hill that is part of 

the Kalimati formation. In Latitpur Municipality the Kalimati and Chapagaun formations are 

predominant. The Gokarna formation typically consists of light to brownish-grey; fine 

laminated and poorly graded silty sand with intercalation of clay of variable thickness. 

Shallow SP sandy soils, which are highly prone to liquefaction even under small to 

moderate intensity earthquakes (MMI = VII-VIII), are often found within the Gokarna 

formation. 




Figure 3: Location map of Kathmandu 

92 The Kalimati formation is grey-to-dark silty clay and clayey silt. Organic clay, fine 

sand beds and peat layers are commonly found. SM silty-sand soil layers intercalated with 

silt or clay layers are often found from 5 to 15 metres down. Such layers are prone to 

liquefaction under moderate to high intensity earthquakes (MMI = VIII-IX). 

93 The Kalimati formation surrounds the Jawalakhel and Lagankhel hills which are 

located on the Chapagau formation. At Jawalakhel Chowk, a soil investigation conducted by 

JICA under The Study on Earthquake Disaster Mitigation in Kathmandu Valley, 2000-2001 

found a non-liquefiable soil profile of good strength capacity. Most of the soils with moderate 

to high liquefaction potential are to be found along riverbanks, in the so-called recent flood 

plains. Generally, apart from soils located at the foot of mountains, those soils in the 

Kathmandu Valley located above 1,300 m are expected to be either non-liquefiable or to 

have a low liquefaction potential. 


Climate 



94 Nepal, in a year, receives about 1,500mm of rainfall in a good monsoon regime 

(DHM Records). Rainfall is concentrated, and more than 75% of the annual rainfall occurs 

during the monsoon months beginning June through September. The months between 

October to May are dry and any rainfall is sporadic. In the winter, rainfall is caused by the 

weather system originating in the Mediterranean region. The winter rain reaches Nepal and 

cause significant precipitation in western Nepal. 

95 The climatic condition of the Bagmati watershed is quite variable because of the 

intricate topography. Temperature generally decreases with elevation. It is low in winter. 

With the advent of spring, the temperature increases. Climatically, the Bagmati watershed 

region can be classified into the following three regions: 

a) Tropical climate of the southern Terai, Bhabar, Chure (Shiwalik), and the Inner 

Terai which has a mild and dry winter. 

b) Warm temperate climate of the Mahabharat region above the elevation of 2000 

m with warm summers and cool winters. 

c) Cool temperate climate of the high Mahabharata region above the altitude of 

3000 m with cool summers and cold winters. Snow falls in the winter months 

and persists on the high slopes throughout the winter. 

96 Rainfall occurs between the months of June through September due to the 

southeast monsoon. The humid monsoon air stream blowing from the Bay of Bengal is 

forced to rise as it meets the Himalayas. As a result, heavy rainfall occurs on some 

sections of the southern Himalayan slopes. Rainfall is also high along the Chure range. 

Regions close to the Indian border receive about 1,500mm rain in a year, while at the 

foothills of Chure the annual rainfall reaches 2,000mm. On the northern side of the Chure 

the rainfall diminishes again. In the lee-ward side, rainfall is reduced due to rain shadow 

effects. Orographic effect is pronounced and governs the rainfall pattern. 

Water Resources 

Surface water 

97 Nepal is characterized by sources of many small to large size rivers, which flow from 

north to south. There are over 6,000 rivers in Nepal and their total length exceeds more 

than 45,000 km. Out of the total numbers of rivers 1,000 are more than 10km long and 100 

are more than 160km long. The surface water available is estimated to be around 224.7 

billion cubic meters per annum. In terms of flow rate, it is around 7,125 cusecs. Nepal 

receives an yearly average precipitation of more than 1,500mm. 

98 The Bagmati River forms a medium sized river basin with a catchment area of 3700 

km 2 at the Nepal India Border. It extends between latitudes 20 0 42' to 27 0 50'N and 

longitudes 85 0 02' to 85 0 58'E. It originates from the Shivapuri hills in the Mahabharat range 

of mountains and flows down south into the Terai plains before crossing the Indo-Nepal 

border. Along its course the river passes through eight districts, namely, Bhaktapur, 

Kathmandu, Lalitpur, Kavrepalanchowk, Makwanpur, Sindhuli, Rautahat and Sarlahi. The 

major tributaries of the Bagmati River are Manohara, Bishnumati, Kulekhani, Kokhajor, 

Marin, Chandi, Jhanjh and Manusmara. The Kathmandu Valley comprises of 15% of the of 

the basin area in Nepal. The basin as a whole can be divided into three parts; 

the upper Bagmati basin comprising of the Kathmandu Valley plus the upper part 

of the Nakhkhu Khola and Dakshinkali area, 

the Middle Bagmati basin comprising of the remainder of the basin in the hills 

including the Kulekhani Khola; and 




the lower Bagmati basin comprising of the basin in the Terai, plus some 

tributaries which originate in the Shiwaliks. 

99 The major tributaries of the Bagmati River are Nakkhu, Kulekhani, Kokhajor, Marin 

and Chandi River. The longitudinal profile of the Bagmati basin is shown in Figure 4 and 

gives the location and details of the study area. 

Figure 4: Longitudinal profile of the Bagmati River Basin 

Source: Preparation of Water – Induced Hazard Maps of Bagmati River Basin, 2005, 

DWIDP/SILT/ERMC/TECHDA 

100 The major tributaries of the Bagmati River inside the Kathmandu Valley are 

Bishnumati, Balkhu, Tukucha, Dhobi Khola, Manohara, Kodku and Nakhu Khola. These 

tributaries are highly polluted. The municipal wastes and industrial effluents are directly 

discharged into these rivers that have made the water unusable for human and ecological 

needs along most of the course. In addition, the Kathmandu Valley is facing a severe 

shortage of water due to the rapid urbanization. The annual groundwater use for domestic 

and industrial purposes in the Valley is almost two times the annual rechargeable 

groundwater available. The Bagmati River has a high religious value. It also adds to the 

aesthetics of the Valley as it passes through, along with its tributaries, the major three cities 

of the Valley. 

Surface water quality 

101 The BOD5 level in different stretches of the Bagmati River at different seasons 

provides a clear indication of high level of pollution at all seasons of the year (BOD5 levels 

range from 1.7 to 239.4 mg/l in the pre-monsoon, 2.1 to 84.7 mg/l in the monsoon and 2.3 to 

119.4 mg/l in the post-monsoon seasons. The main reason for the deteriorating water 

quality of the Valley Rivers is discharge of untreated sewage in the urban areas of 

Kathmandu, although solid waste dumping along the river is also a contributing factor. 

Groundwater 

102 The groundwater aquifers of the Kathmandu Valley have been divided into 3 

districts: Northern (157 km 2 with 59 km 2 recharge area), Central (114 km 2 with about 6 km 2 

recharge area) and Southern (55 km 2 with about 21 km 2 recharge area) (Dixit and Upadhya, 

2005). The heavy extraction of groundwater to meet the domestic as well as commercial 

demands is alarming with the depletion of the groundwater level. There is haphazard 

extraction of water from both shallow and deep aquifers in Kathmandu Valley at present. 




According to the hydrogeological conditions of the Kathmandu Valley and the recharge rate 

of the basin, only 15 MLD of groundwater can be safely extracted in a day (JICA, 1990). 

This rate is being exceeded by more than 70% through NWSC tubewells alone. Due to the 

increase of built-up areas, groundwater recharge is reduced with the rerouting of the natural 

drainage. The unsustained extraction of groundwater causes land subsidence which is 

already evident in many cities in Asia (e.g. Bangkok). 

103 It is estimated that the groundwater of Kathmandu Valley is decreasing at an 

average rate of 2.5 metres per year. However, it differs according to the places as the 

geological structure within the Kathmandu Valley is diverse. If groundwater is being 

continuously extracted it will be sufficient for the next 90 years only (http://guthi.net). 

104 Many households have installed rower pumps to extract groundwater from the 

shallow aquifer when NWSC could not meet their demands but the bacteriological quality of 

the water is of concern and has to be looked into. Due to the necessity of stopping 

groundwater mining, there is an urgent need in formulating legislation, rules and regulations 

on the extraction of groundwater in the Kathmandu Valley. 

Groundwater quality 

105 Of the 57 deep tubewells tested, many wells exceeded the Nepal Standards for 

color, turbidity, ammonia, iron and manganese. Two of the wells exceeded the arsenic 

standard. In some wells ammonia concentration was found to be extremely high (50 fold 

above the threshold value of 1.5 mg/l). Twenty of the 57 wells showed bacterial 

contamination (ENPHO, 2009) 

Ecological Resources 

National Parks 

106 The Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park is the only National Park near to the 

Kathmandu Valley. Shivapuri is the second highest peak among the hills surrounding the 

Kathmandu Valley. It is 2,732m high with numerous sharp ridges radiating to all sides. 

Situated towards the north of the Kathmandu Valley, due to its strategic location and 

convenience, Shivapuri was proclaimed as a watershed area supplying more than a million 

litters of natural spring water to the city. After Shivapuri experienced several problems 

concerning soil erosion as a result of deforestation, over-grazing, cultivation on steep slopes 

etc.; reducing the quality and quantity of the water, the Government of Nepal initiated a 

program to protect Shivapuri and its adjoining areas as a watershed and wildlife reserve in 

1975. In 2002 Shivapuri Watershed and Wildlife Reserve was officially given a National 

Park status. In 2009, Nagarjun was annexed to the Shivapuri National Park and renamed 

the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. 

107 A new water supply service reservoir adjacent to the existing water treatment plant 

(WTP) at Balaju is proposed to be constructed on land acquired under Loan 1820-NEP 

(MWSP). The new reservoir will replace the existing reservoir (80 years old) which is 

dilapidated. To minimize the adverse impacts, the new feeder main (150m length, 800mm 

diameter) will be constructed to the new proposed reservoir following the existing track and 

pipeline corridor serving the WTP so as to avoid the cutting of trees. However, the existing 

pipeline corridor now lies within the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park whose boundary was 

recently extended, which is a legally protected area. If it is unavoidable to cut trees the 

exact number will be determined during detailed design to be done by the Project DSC. 


Forests 



108 The Valley has 20,945 ha of forests, which constitutes 32.7% of the total area of the 

Valley. The natural vegetation, except in a few conservation areas, has been under intense 

pressure. The area under natural forest cover, excluding shrubs, is 9,580 ha (45.7% of the 

total forest land), of which only about 22% has good forest cover with more than 50% of 

crown coverage. Mature hardwood forests are now confined to parks and sacred areas 

such as Nagarjun (Raniban), Gokarna, Shivapuri National Park, and Bajrabarahi forest. 

Shrubland occupies nearly 34% of the total forest area. 

109 The forests in the Valley are not in good condition. Most of the forests in the Valley 

are in the regenerating stage. The crown coverage of Rhododendron and Quercus is more 

than 70% and the crown coverage of Pinus roxburghii, and Schima-Castonopsis is less than 

40%. About 1,312 plant species belonging to 162 vascular families are found in the Valley, 

representing 26% of the total of plants recorded in Nepal. About seven species of 

gymnosperms, 170 species of ferns, and 97 species of orchids are found in the Valley. 

About 256 species of birds have been reported from the Phulchowki area and many birds 

are found in Nagarjun, Shivapuri, Tuadaha, Tokha, and Bajrabarahi. Many migratory birds 

are found at Taudaha pond. About 33 bird species have disappeared from the Valley due to 

habitat destruction. Some patches of forest exist in Bajrabarahi, Hattiban, Balkumari, Karya 

Binayak, Mhaipi, Pashupatinath, Raniban, and Bansbari. These are mostly of eucalyptus, 

Protea sp, Jacaranda sp, and camphor. Green belts are found in some city areas. Populus 

sp and Eucalyptus sp are mostly found along the Ring Road. 

110 The Nagarjun National Park (15 sq.km) was annexed in 2009 to the Shivapuri 

National Park (144 sq.km) and called the Shivapri Nagarjun National Park. The intension 

was “to provide extended habitat for the wildlife population and as a representation of intact 

mid-hill forest ecosystems whose representation is comparatively low in the protected area 

system. The Shivapuri Nagajun National Park is one of the primary sources of freshwater 

for the Kathmandu Valley, providing about 40% of the drinking water to the Valley” 

(Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation, 2009). 

111 The existing dilapidated Balaju water supply service reservoir is located within the 

Nagarjun Park which will be dismantled and a 8,000 m 3 reservoir built at the same location. 

There is an existing motorable access road which is in good condition and suitable for use 

by the project to the reservoir. The forest area will not be affected by the Project. 

Flora 

112 Since Shivapuri lies in the transition zone between a subtropical and temperate 

climate, the vegetation consists of a variety of natural forest types, depending on altitude 

and aspects. Most of the areas below 1800 m are covered with Schima castanopsis forest 

in which pines (Pinus roxburghii) appear on the southern dry ridges, with utis (Alnus 

nepalensis) along the streams. A forest of oak species such as Quercus semicarpifolia and 

Quercus lamelosa mixed with rhododendron and a variety of orchids flourish on the northern 

slopes. There are more than 2,122 species of flora and 16 of them are endemic flowering 

plants in the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. A variety of medicinal herbs are found at 

higher altitudes. 129 species of mushrooms have been so far identified and catalogued 

from the Shivapuri National Park. 

Fauna 

113 The Shivapuri National Park is a home to 311 species of birds, 21 species of 

mammals and more than 102 species of butterflies, some endemic and rare. This is, out of 




the total of 800 species of birds, 130 species of mammals (of which 11 are threatened 

species) and 600 species of butterflies found in Nepal, thus making the National Park a 

paradise for flora and fauna. The threatened wildlife found are: Wild boar (Sus scrofa), 

Barking deer (Muntiacus muntijak), Rhesus monkey (Macaca mulata), Porcupine (Hystrix 

indica), Goral (Naemorhedus goral), Himalayan black bear (Ursus thibetanus), Leopard 

(Panthera pardus), Pangolin (Manis spp.), Cloded leopard (Pardofelis nebulosa), Leopard 

cat (Primailurus bengalensis) and Jungle cat (Felischaus) 

Socio-economics 

Social and Household Profile 

114 Social Classification. According to the Census 2001, majority of the people living 

in the Valley are Hindus (76%) followed by Buddhist (21%). The percentage of other 

religions living in the Valley is minimal. The households are divided into different ethnic 

groups such as Newars, Brahmins, Chettris, Tamangs, and Magars. Newars are the 

prominent inhabitants followed by Brahmins, Chettris, Tamangs, and Magars. These ethnic 

groups are not at the same level of socio-economic development. In the Kathmandu Valley, 

Newars are termed as an advanced indigenous people group. This group comprise about 

41% of the Valley population. Besides Newars, Brahmins (18%), and Chhetris (15%) are 

the major ethnic groups. Similarly, Tamangs constitute about 6% and Magars hold 3% of 

the total population of the Valley. 

115 Age. The age group between 15 to 44 years (economically active) constitute about 

56% of the project‟s district population. The other main age group are between 5 to 14 

years. Only about 5% of the population are 60 years and above. There are no significant 

differences in the percentage of agewise distribution in KUKL service areas. 

116 Table 5 summarizes the distribution of gender and households and the literacy rate 

of the five main districts in the Valley. 

Metro/Sub-metro/ 

Municipality & VDCs 

covered 

Kathmandu Metro & 

VDCs 

Kirtipur Municipality 

&VDCs 

Bhaktapur Municipality 

& VDCs 

Madhyapur Thimi 

Municipality 

Lalitpur Sub- Metro & 

VDCs 

Source: Compiled from Census 2001, CBS 

Employment 

Table 5: Household profile in Kathmandu Valley 

Population Total 

Male Female Total 

HHs 

Average 

size of 

HHs 

Literacy 

rate 

470,433 416,301 836,734 197,280 4.5 82.6 

34,158 31,359 65,517 14,646 4.5 73.7 

59,312 58,012 117,324 20,703 5.7 69.2 

24,747 23,004 47,751 9,551 5.0 72.7 

116,829 111,003 227,832 47,823 4.8 80.9 

117 The economy of the Kathmandu Valley is based on trade, commerce and 

manufacturing industries like carpets, and garments. Other economic sectors are 

agriculture, education, transport and hotels and restaurants. Tourism is also a key 




component of the Valley‟s economy. However, in the rural areas, the economy is still based 

on agriculture. 

118 Kathmandu Valley has developed as a centre of trade links with India and Tibet 

(China). According to the Economic Survey 2008/09, in the fiscal year 2007/08, Nepal 

exported 65% of its goods to India and 35% to third countries like USA, U.K, Italy, Germany, 

Canada and Japan. The main export commodities are readymade garments, woollen 

carpets, and woollen and pashmina goods, handicrafts of which most of them are 

manufactured in the Kathmandu Valley. The majority of goods imported from third countries 

are also handled through the Kathmandu Valley. The Kathmandu Valley is the entry point 

for the majority of tourists. In 2008/09, a total of 409,100 tourists (excluding Indians) arrived 

in Nepal, of which, more than 90% enter through the Kathmandu international airport. 

119 About 53% of the total population aged 10 years and above in the Valley are 

economically active (Census 2001). The majority of the population of the Kathmandu Valley 

are engaged in agriculture and forestry (36%). The other major industries are 

manufacturing (17%), commerce (16%), construction (4%), and 

transportation/communication (3%). 

120 Table 6 summarizes the economic activities in the urban areas of the Kathmandu 

Valley. About 34% of the households are engaged in small-scale non–farm activities. The 

Lalitpur Municipality has the highest percentage (50%), whereas the Kirtipur Municipality 

has the lowest (13%). Among the households engaged in non-farm activities, nearly 45% of 

the households are engaged in trade and business followed by services (32%) and 

manufacturing (9%). Nearly 50% of the households of Kirtipur and Kathmandu are engaged 

in trade and business. 

Table 6: Household in non-farm economic activities in Kathmandu Valley 

Municipalities % of HHs 

engaged in 

non-farm 

activities 

Manufacturing Trade/ 

Business 

Type of activities 

Transport Services Others 

Lalitpur 50.18 13.25 33.22 4.29 42.37 6.86 

Bhaktapur 40.83 13.24 38.55 4.26 26.54 17.40 

Madhyapur 

Thimi 

35.02 11.39 41.88 4.48 23.26 18.98 

Kathmandu 31.57 6.86 49.49 3.49 30.26 9.90 

Kirtipur 13.34 9.72 51.42 2.84 22.83 13.19 

Total 34.43 9.02 44.66 3.76 32.41 10.14 

Source: Population census 2001 (selected urban tables), CBS 2003 

121 According to the 2001 Census and Nepal Human Development Report 2004, the 

poverty status of the Kathmandu Valley is lower than the national level. Table 7 indicates 

that the human development index in the Kathmandu Valley is much better than the national 

level. 

Table 7: Kathmandu Valley development indicators 

Districts Human Development 

Index (HDI) 

Human Poverty Index 

(HPI) 

Gender-related Development 

Index (GDI) 

All Nepal 0.471 39.6 0.452 

Kathmandu 0.652 25.8 0.635 

Lalitpur 0.588 25.0 0.569 

Bhaktapur 0.595 29.9 0.578 

Source: Census 2001, Nepal Human Development report by UNDP 2004 




Slums and Squatter Settlements 

122 The rapid population growth has created a number of slums and squatters 

settlements in the Kathmandu Valley. Table 8 summarizes the findings of a survey 

conducted by LICSU, KUKL during 2008. There were 39 squatter settlements and 137 

slums in the Kathmandu Valley on which 40,237 population live in 8,846 households. Of 

these, 22% had no access to piped water supply and none had adequate sanitation. 

Table 8: Slums and squatter settlements in Kathmandu Valley 

Type of Residence No. of 

Households 

(HHs) 

Slums 

Total 

Population 

Average 

Household 

size 

% of HHs 

without piped 

water supply 

Bhaktapur Municipality 754 3274 4.34 32 

Madhyapur Thimi 

Municipality 

382 1981 

5.19 85 

Lalitpur Sub - Metropolitan 391 1,866 4.77 62 

Kathmandu Metropolitan 3,784 16,575 4.38 58 

Kirtipur Municipality 1,674 7,767 4.64 64 

Squatters 

Kathmandu Metropolitan 1,861 8,774 4.71 95 

Total 8,846 40,237 4.5 21.98 

Source: Mapping of Slums, Squatters and Stand Posts in Kathmandu Valley updated by LICSU, KUKL, June 

2008, AVIYAAN Consulting (P) Ltd. 

123 Due to the constraints in supply, KUKL is unable to supply the required quantity 

water to these un-regulated settlements. To help manage the water supply and sanitation 

problem in these areas, the Government established the Low Income Consumer Support 

Unit (LICSU) in KUKL in 2008. The basic objective of LICSU is to serve drinking water to 

the urban poor. It has started to construct water tanks, standposts and rehabilitate broken 

standposts. In 2008, it was found that 395 (38%) public standposts were not working in the 

Valley. However, KUKL has managed to distribute drinking water to these settlements 

through its own water tankers. 

124 Because, KUKL is unable to provide adequate drinking water and sanitation services 

to the increasing slum and squatter settlements the participation of NGOs and the private 

sector has been encouraged for operation and management. The Government has adopted 

a policy of handing over completed schemes to the user groups for operation and 

management. For this, user groups are required to share at least 20% of the total cost of 

the scheme. As a result, there is a significant number of Water Users Groups in the 

Kathmandu Valley who are involved in operation and management of drinking water 

systems and sanitation in different places. 

Economic Development and Prospects for Growth 

125 In comparison to the rest of Nepal, the Kathmandu Valley possesses basic facilities 

like water supply, sanitation, electricity, bottled gas, telecommunications, roads, education, 

security, and transportation. The Valley is also the centre for several major industries such 

as textile, food & beverage, non-metallic mineral products, publishing and printing. Such 

facilities and opportunities are a huge attraction to the rural poor resulting in high migration 




rates into the Valley; hence the rapid population growth and demand for urban services, 

especially water supply, within the Valley. 

126 The Valley‟s annual industrial output is estimated to be NRs.14.6 billion ($190 

million), which is nearly 9.4% of the total national industrial output. The industrial sector 

employment is about 37,500 in the Kathmandu Valley, which is 22.1% to the national 

employment figure in the industrial sector. Similarly, indirect employment in the industrial 

sector is about 38,900, which is about 21.9% of the national figure. 

127 Being a capital city and commercial centre for the country, Kathmandu and its 

surrounding Valley is developing and urbanizing fast in comparison to the rest of Nepal. 

The Kathmandu Valley is the most important urbanized area in Nepal. New products and 

services are first introduced in the Valley, giving the inhabitants access to modern 

equipment and technology. An indication of confidence in economic growth is the high 

demand for new housing real estate and the number of new vehicles on the roads, which is 

rising rapidly. In addition, there are plans for major transportation improvements such as 

the Kathmandu outer ring road and the new link road to India via the Terai. 

Land Use 

128 The land use and land cover statistics (Table 9) derived from the 1992 topographical 

sheet exhibits that almost 50% of the Bagmati watershed is occupied by forests. High relief 

areas of the Midlands and the Mahabharat Range are characterised mainly by deciduous 

and coniferous forests; while hardwood and mixed hardwood forests characterises the 

Shiwaliks and low lying areas of the Midlands and the Mahabharat Range. Next to the 

forests are cultivated lands, which cover about 37% of the total area. The agricultural 

activities are confined mainly in the river valleys and the gentle slopes of the hilly region. 

Built up areas occupy an insignificant portion, less than 1%, of the total area. Metropolitan 

city of Kathmandu, sub-metropolitan city of Lalitpur, and municipal cities of Bhaktapur, 

Madhyapur Thimi, and Kirtipur are the major built up areas in the watershed. 

Table 9: Land use and land cover in the Bagmati River basin 

Land use/land cover Area (ha) Percent 

Forest 186340 49.6 

Cultivation 141986 37.8 

Sand 18118 4.8 

Bush 13367 3.6 

Grass 5241 1.4 

Channel 4441 1.2 

Built-up area 2378 0.6 

Barren land 1264 0.3 

Orchard 785 0.2 

Scattered tree 551 0.1 

Nursery 360 0.1 

Pond or lake 141 0.0 

Others 628 0.2 

Source: Preparation of Water – Induced Hazard Maps of Bagmati River Basin, 2005, 

DWIDP/SILT/ERMC/TECHDA 

Infrastructure 

Transportation 

129 Long-distance bus services from Kathmandu provide services to the people 

throughout the country. Private transport includes buses, microbuses, vans, cars, jeeps, and 




three wheelers, operated by petroleum, liquid petroleum gas (LPG), and batteries. The total 

length of roads in Kathmandu, Lalitpur and Bhaktapur is 813, 337 and 181 km, respectively, 

i.e. a total of 1,331 km of roads within the Kathmandu Valley (Department of Roads, 2004). 

130 The Tribhuvan International Airport is just 30 minutes away from the centre of town. 

There are numerous daily flights from Kathmandu to international destinations as well as 

regular flights to many areas of the country. Many international airlines fly to the Kathmandu 

international airport. 

Drinking Water Supply 

131 Not all households and people in the Valley receive safe drinking water. The 

dependency of households for drinking water on a variety of sources can be seen from 

Table 10. 

132 Based on the 2005 data of the Department of Drinking Water and Sewerage, the 

population and percentage of the population receiving water by districts and also for the 

Kathmandu Valley are shown in Table 11. It is seen that less than 75% of the population 

receives drinking water supplies. 

Table 10: Sources of drinking water 

Kathmandu Lalitpur Bhaktapur Kathmandu Valley 

HH % HH % HH % HH % 

Tap 197,851 84.1 57,237 83.0 30,755 73.5 285,843 82.6 

Well 14,714 6.3 6,745 9.8 4,4843 11.6 26,302 7.6 

Tubewell 13,478 5.7 825 1.2 2,977 7.1 17,280 5.0 

Spouts 6,082 2.6 3,099 4.5 2,632 6.3 11,813 3.4 

River/stream 195 0.1 113 0.2 29 0.1 337 0.1 

Others 1,616 0.7 477 0.7 277 0.7 2,370 0.7 

Not stated 1,581 0.6 425 0.6 339 0.8 2,145 0.6 

Total 235,317 100 68,921 100 41,852 100 346,090 100 

Key: HH = Household; Source: NWSC 2005 

Table 11: Population receiving drinking water 

Districts Estimated Population 2005 Population 

benefitting 2005 

Kathmandu 1,246,110 947,630 76.05 

Lalitpur 366,010 286,250 78.21 

Bhaktapur 244,130 152,270 62.37 

Source: NWSC 2005 

Total 1,856,250 1,386,150 74.67 

Surface Drainage, Sanitation & Sewerage 

Percentage 

benefitting 2005 

133 Stormwater drainage system functions in the Valley through side drains but do not 

function well. The increased use of plastic bags has also further worsened the problem as 

drains are frequently clogged by the bags. 


Electricity 



134 Not all households in the Valley have electricity. The proportion of households 

having electricity in Kathmandu, Lalitpur and Bhaktapur are 96.81, 87.64 and 96.41%, 

respectively and is based on data from the Nepal Human Development Report 2001 (UNDP 

2002). The overall proportion of households connected to electricity is approximately 95%. 

Educational Establishments 

135 The Kathmandu Valley has long been the considered the centre for higher education 

in Nepal. In 2007, there were 6,106 high school level and 474 higher secondary, college 

and university level education institutions. The number of students enrolled during the 

period at high school level and higher education level were 573,779 and 156,828 

respectively (ICIMOD, MOE, UNEP 2007). 

136 Education has been progressing continuously, specifically in the Kathmandu Valley 

and, as a result, educational institutions, levels of education, and fields of study have been 

increasing. Table 12 shows the number of schools by levels for the three districts. 

Table 12: Total number of schools by grades and levels 

Primary Lower 

Secondary 

Secondary Higher 

Secondary 

Kathmandu 920 671 514 148 

Lalitpur 277 147 108 47 

Bhaktapur 243 137 85 9 

Total in the 

Valley 

1,440 955 707 204 

Source: Compiled from NIDI 2006; ICIMOD, MOE, UNEP 2007 

137 Tribhuvan University, the national university, has five institutes (Engineering; 

Agriculture and Animal Sciences; Medicine; Forestry Science; and Science and 

Technology) and four faculties (Law, Management, Education, and Humanities and Social 

Sciences) which offer almost all the popular disciplines at different academic levels, 

including Master‟s and Doctoral levels. 

138 There are three medical and more than 12 engineering colleges offering up to 

master‟s level education. The Council for Technical Education and Vocational Training is 

another regulatory body monitoring the curriculums for technical and vocational training as 

well as diploma courses in different subjects to produce skilled manpower. 

Health Facilities 

139 Kathmandu is a centre for all types of health services (general medicine, surgery, 

heart care, orthopaedic care, kidney care, dental care, children‟s care, eye care, mental 

care, neurology etc.). The number of health facilities owned by the Government or provided 

by NGOs/INGOs and the private sector is relatively better in Kathmandu than in other 

districts. More health institutions are available in Kathmandu than in Lalitpur and Bhaktapur 

districts. However, the population served by the number of health institutions in Kathmandu 

is less (1:9,574) than in Bhaktapur (1:5,637) or Lalitpur (1:4,119). It shows that the number 

of health institutions is low in comparison to the size of the population in Kathmandu. 


Communications 



140 There are 3,991 post offices including the general post office, regional postal 

directorates, district post offices, area post offices, and additional post offices. A number of 

private postal care companies provide a wide range of postal services (ICIMOD, MOE, 

WNEP, 2007). 

141 The telecommunication system in the Kathmandu Valley is excellent. The Nepal 

Telecommunications‟ Authority, as of 2005/06 has issued basic telephone service licenses 

to two agencies, cellular mobile service licenses to two agencies, and internet (including 

email) licenses to 38 agencies (more than 50,000 customers) (ICIMOD, MOE, UNEP, 

2007). 

. 

Economic Characteristics 

Industries 

142 Kathmandu Valley has many traditional cottage industries (textile weaving 

(handlooms), brick and tiles, pottery, handicrafts (e.g. idol making), precious ornaments, 

traditional food processing and preservation (such as rice milling, beaten rice, oil milling, 

sweetmeats, and traditional dairy products), wooden furniture and carving, bamboo crafts, 

traditional textile printing and dyeing, traditional art and paintings, copper and brass metal 

utensils, herbal medicines, forges, and cordwaining (leather crafts)). 

143 Three industrial districts, namely, Balaju Industrial District, Patan Industrial Estate, 

and Bhaktapur Industrial Estate exist in the Kathmandu Valley. Public sector brick factories, 

leather tanning, and shoe manufacturing are also established. Food and beverages, plastic 

products, construction materials, carpets, and readymade garment industries have 

flourished. However, the number of industries and employment provided by them has 

decreased drastically within the last decade. Industries are also concentrated along the 

Kathmandu-Bhaktapur and Kalanki-Thankot roads. Most of the polluting industries such as 

textile dyeing, tanning, and distilling have been closed or transferred to places outside the 

Valley. 

144 Of the remaining industries, the main polluting industries in the Valley are only small 

scale, and these include brick kilns; wool dyeing and carpet washing; textile dyeing; pottery; 

polyurethane and rubber foam; beaten rice; dairy products; metal casting; metal craft 

industries and gold plating; and alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. 

145 With the increase in industrial pollution and rising awareness of the general public 

about the adverse impact of industrial pollution, complaints augmented and measures were 

taken to address the issue. The Industrial Promotion Board formulated an industrial location 

policy. There have been revisions to the policy and the latest location policy for industries 

specifies the following: 

• The types of industry (List A) that can be established in municipal areas of the 

Valley 

• Types of industry (List B) that are not allowed in the Valley 

• All types of industry that have pollution prevention and safety measures can be 

established inside any designated industrial district (ICIMOD, MOE, UNEP, 2007) 

Agricultural development 

146 Rice is the main crop of in the rural areas Kathmandu and Bhaktapur, whereas 

maize is the prominent cereal crop of Lalitpur. The other cereal crops in the project districts 




are millet, wheat and barley. Other agricultural produce such as lentil, soya bean, pea, 

black gram are the main pulses grown, as well as pulses, potato and oil seeds. 

147 Livestock rearing is the second most important activity. Most of the households in 

the rural areas rear animals for income, food or draft power. Goats represent the highest 

number in Kathmandu Valley followed by cattle and buffaloes; the produce of which has a 

ready market in the local city area. 

148 Population increase in the Kathmandu Valley is bringing considerable changes in the 

cropping system. Rapid urbanization and the introduction of new agriculture technology 

have encouraged the Valley‟s farmers to change their cropping patterns from traditional (low 

value crops) to new crops (high value crops). Land under cultivation of green leafy 

vegetables is increasing rapidly in the urban and semi-urban areas. 

149 The increased growth in the population and haphazard housing construction in 

agricultural lands has resulted in the rapid decline of agricultural land. If this trend of decline 

in agriculture land in the Kathmandu Valley continues in the future, it is expected that there 

will be no agriculture land left in the Valley in the future. According to the District Agricultural 

Office, Kathmandu, agricultural land in Kathmandu has reduced from 64% in the year 2041 

to 41% in 2066 BS. 

(http://www.gorkhapatra.org.np/rising.detail.php?article_id=28619&cat_id=27). 

Development organisations 

150 The Social Services‟ National Coordination Council regulates and supervises NGOs, 

whereas the Social Welfare National Coordination Council (SWNCC) handles most of the 

funding agencies. According to the Social Welfare Council (SWC), there are altogether 

7,004 NGOs registered with SWC operational in the Kathmandu Valley. Kathmandu has 

5,969, Lalitpur 856, and Bhaktapur 179 NGOs. According to SWC, there are 157 

international non-government organisations (INGOs) across the country: of these almost all 

have head offices in the Kathmandu Valley and more than 80% are working in the Valley 

(ICIMOD, MOE, UNEP 2007). 

151 There are also various NGOs/INGOs working in the water and sanitation sector in 

the Valley. These organizations have focused mostly in slums and squatter settlements and 

rural areas of the Kathmandu Valley. They have constructed water tanks of 5m 3 capacity 

and a number of latrines/toilets with drains in these communities. The major NGOs/INGOs 

working in the water and sanitation sectors are: 

Lumanti Support Group for Shelter 

NGO Forum for Urban Water and Sanitation 

Centre for Integrated Urban Development 

Environment and Public Health Organization (ENPHO) 

Nepal Water for Health (NEWAH) 

Action Aid, 

Water Aid, 

Plan International 

UDLE (Urban Development through Local Efforts) 

Red Cross 


Cultural heritage 



152 The Kathmandu Valley is known for its ancient art, culture, craftsmanship, and 

numerous monuments of historic and archaeological importance and has been described by 

UNESCO as a “living heritage site”. There are many temples, palaces, monasteries, and 

stupas that are centuries‟ old. UNESCO has classified 7 sites as World Heritage Sites. 

There are more than 360 „vihars‟, „chaityas‟, and monasteries and many important religious 

and cultural sites on the river banks. The Patan Darbar Square and the Kathmandu Darbar 

Square, two of the World Heritage Sites fall within the project area. 

Major Environmental Problems 

153 The environmental issues of the Kathmandu Valley are: 

Air quality, traffic management and noise pollution: Increasing vehicles numbers in 

Kathmandu Valley (274,000, based on the records of 2004/2005) has increased the air 

pollution load in the Kathmandu Valley. 38% of the air pollution has been contributed by 

vehicular movement; industrial emissions are also contributing substantially (KVEO, 2007). 

154 The Kathmandu Valley is particularly vulnerable to air pollution because of its bowlshaped 

topography which restricts air movement. The situation is worse during the winter 

when temperature inversion during the night and early morning traps a layer of cool air 

under a layer of warmer air, trapping pollutants close to ground level for extended periods. 

Besides the topography, the relatively high elevation of the Valley also results in increased 

vehicular emissions. 

155 Vehicular emissions have become the main source of air pollution in Kathmandu 

Valley. An inventory of emission sources by the then Ministry of Population and 

Environment (MoPE) indicated that exhaust fumes had increased more than four times in 

the eight years between 1993 and 2001. According to a more recent inventory, vehicular 

emissions are responsible for 38% of the total PM10 emitted in Kathmandu Valley, compared 

to 18% from the agricultural sector and 11% from brick kilns (Gautam 2006; Table 13). 

Increase in emissions is mainly due to the increase in the number of automobiles, as well as 

poor transport management and poor vehicle maintenance. 

156 Recently, a study on traffic noise and its mental health problems in Kathmandu 

Valley was carried out. The mean noise levels in Kathmandu city were found to be 79 

decibels (dB) and 112 dB, which were higher than the noise levels of major cities in India. 

The rate of increase of noise level in Kathmandu City was found to be 1 dB per year. 

157 The permissible level for road traffic noise is 70 dB. An earlier study listed NAC, 

Kupondol Height, Thapathali, Sahidgate, Koteshwor, Gwarko, Gongabu and Gyaneshwor 

as hazardous areas where noise levels were found to be beyond 80 dB. However, the 

present study indicated that noise levels in Kathmandu were found to be beyond the 

permissible values. 

158 Three different types of noise areas were identified in the Kathmandu Valley: 

Noise levels below 70 dB are listed as low noisy areas 

Levels between 70 dB and 80 dB were listed as moderate noisy areas which 

include Hotel Shangrila, Gairidhara, Galkhupakha, Gausala, Satdobato, 

Balkhu, Swoyambhu, Pulchwok and Maitidevi. 


Mobile Sources 



Hazardous sites in Kathmandu City are: Putalisadak, New Baneshwore, 

Kalanki, Narayan Gopal Chowk, Tripureshwor, Kalimati and Koteshwore 

where noise levels were found beyond 80 dB. 

Table 13: Comparison of emission inventories in 1993, 2001, 2005 

Sources TSP (tons/yr) PM10 (tons/yr) 

1993 2001 2005 1993 2001 2005 

Vehicle exhausts 570 1971 NA 570 3,259 4,708 

Road dust re-suspension 1,530 7,008 12,239 400 1,822 3,182 

Sub-total 2,100 8,979 12,239 970 5,081 7,890 

Stationary Sources 

Industrial/commercial fuel 582 NA NA 292 NA NA 

Domestic fuel combustion 2,328 NA 630 1,166 NA 347 

Brick kilns 5,180 6,676 1,850 1,295 1,688 1,437 

Himal Cement 6,000 3,612 0 800 455 0 

Stone crushers NA NA 1,720 NA NA 372 

Industrial boilers NA 28 28 NA 15 15 

Fugitive Emissions 

Refuse burning 385 687 172 190 339 172 

Agricultural sector NA NA NA NA NA 2,337 

Cremation NA NA NA NA NA 79 

Total 16,575 19,982 * 

16,797 4,712 7,580 12,649 

* in original report 19,884 

Key: TSP = total suspended particles; NA = not available; 

Source: Shah and Nagpal 1997; Gautam 2006; MOE 2005. 

(http://www.nepalnews.com.np/contents/englishweekly/sundaypost/2003/mar/mar16/2ndpage.htm) 

159 A survey showed that mental health problems occurred in the people tested (95% 

from hazardous areas, 88% from moderate noisy areas and 62% from low noisy areas). 

160 Settlement patterns: Kathmandu Valley is developing haphazardly with the 

tremendous increase in population. It was estimated that, there will nearly 4.0 million 

people within the Valley by 2025 compared to nearly only 1.3 million in 2001. The Valley‟s 

fertile lands are being fragmented and residential houses are being constructed in an 

unabated manner. This kind of growth has created problems on transportation, electricity 

supply, acute scarcity of drinking water, river pollution resulting in human health hazards. 

161 Water resources: An extensive deterioration in river water quality and in quantity in 

urban areas due to excessive pollution loads has already taken place. Increasing demands 

for drinking water has placed a heavy strain on insufficient supplies and has created water 

scarcity. Almost all major rivers have been tapped at source for drinking water supplies. 

The current water supply is only about 140 MLD during the rainy season, 100 MLD during 

dry season of the estimated daily demand of 190 MLD. In the dry season, 60-70% of the 

water supply comes from groundwater. 

162 Waste management: The five municipalities generate daily approximately 435 tons 

of solid waste, of which more than 70% comes from the Kathmandu Metropolitan City. The 

final disposal sites are always controversial and opposed by the local people; and most of 

the time the solid wastes have been disposed at the river banks and in open areas. The 




current location of disposal is located at Sisdol-25 km west from Kathmandu; however this 

landfill site was designated for three years which has been already completed. A new 

municipal waste disposal site has now been identified and is in the process of being 

developed. 

163 The Solid Waste Management National Policy (1996) of the then His Majesty‟s 

Government (HMG) mentions that there are no proper statistics about the nature, volume, 

collection, transportation and final disposal of different types of solid wastes generated in 

city areas. The policy has one of its objectives to privatize solid waste management. 

164 The daily solid waste generation is assumed to be 0.25 kg/p/d. Studies have 

revealed that the composition of solid waste in Kathmandu is mainly organic (58 to 66%) 

with 5% plastics. The use of plastic bags has increased over the years and since it is nonbiodegradable, 

its use should be discouraged or even banned. 

165 A major issue is the huge amounts of accumulated solid waste in the Kathmandu 

Valley from time to time due to the demands of the people nearby the landfill site who 

obstruct the trucks carrying the solid waste. Another major issue is the dumping of 

hazardous and infectious wastes of hospitals and nursing homes together with domestic 

solid wastes. 

166 Most of the plastics and reusable materials like bottles, metals etc. are daily picked 

up by scavengers who are helping the municipality by reducing the waste volume. Tourism 

is Nepal‟s topmost industry and if it is to thrive, solid waste management should be tackled 

well in all the municipalities and be given top priority. 

167 Natural Disasters Preparedness: Earthquakes and landslides are identified as the 

two most prominent potential natural disasters in the Kathmandu Valley. The Valley is 

located in a seismic zone; lack of public awareness about earthquakes, lack of adequate 

planning, and lack of coordination are the main factors that impact negatively on disaster 

preparedness. Excavation of slopes, deposition of loads on slopes, deforestation, irrigation, 

and mining, and water leakage are the main human activities causing landslides. 

168 Water quality: Bacteriological water quality deterioration during transmission is a 

problem in almost all urban areas due to the ingress of polluted water into the pipes 

(intermittent supply), leakage, absence of chlorination and absence of monitoring of water 

quality. Almost all available reports on drinking water quality of Kathmandu reveal the same- 

-- that most of the urban water supply is bacteriologically contaminated (Table 14). The 

chemical quality of most of the water is within WHO guidelines. 

Table 14: Water quality of different water sources, Kathmandu Valley 

Parameters Water Sources WHO 

PTW PUTW Well SS GV 

pH 6.5-8.2 6.5-7.5 7.5 7.5 6.5-8.5 

Temp ( o C) 13-18 12-15 15-18 15-18 25 

Iron (mg/l) ND-0.2 0.2 0.2 0.3 0.3=3.0 

Chlorine (mg/l) ND ND ND ND 0.2 

Chloride (mg/l) 10-30 22-45 22-45 23-45 250 

N-NH4 (mg/l) ND-0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.04-0.4 

PO4 – P (mg/l) 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.4-5.0 

Coliform bacteria (source) +/- + + + - 

Coliform bacteria (consumption) + - 

E.coli cfu/100 ml 

Source: Pradhan et al. 2005 

10-131 3-20 48-200 58 0 

Note: PTW = Private tap water, PUTW = public tap water, SS = stone spout, WHO GV = WHO guideline value 




169 Most of the people of Kathmandu do not trust the quality of the water provided by 

NWSC/KUKL and so boil the water before drinking. A small calculation shows that each 

household spends 30% more on top of the water tariff monthly for boiling and pumping. This 

cost excludes the cost of the storage reservoir and the overhead tank. This is a positive sign 

that the people are willing to pay more for a reliable and safe supply of water. 

170 Health and Sanitation: Individual septic tanks and soakpit systems and some pour 

flush latrines and pit latrines do exist in urban areas (the pollution of groundwater due to the 

leachate does exist but has not yet been quantified) but most of the effluent reaches the 

municipal drains and ultimately reaches rivers or agricultural lands. People without toilets 

defecate in open fields and banks of rivers. Public latrines hardly exist in urban towns and if 

they do, they are so poorly maintained. 

171 The Bagmati River is the main river system with its tributaries that drains the 

Kathmandu Valley. The visible pollution of the Bagmati and its tributaries within the city 

reaches due to discharge of untreated domestic sewage, dumping of solid wastes, washing 

of vehicles, sand quarrying and discharge of untreated industrial and hospital wastes is 

severe. It is interesting to note that the Bagmati River is considered to be a very holy river 

where bathing in it rids away your sins and it is also on its river banks where a Hindu is 

cremated and the ashes thrown into the river. But now the river is so polluted that you may 

wash away your “ritual pollution” and walk away with physical pollution. 

172 Sanitary conditions within the Kathmandu Valley are hazardous (HFA, 1991). A 

visual tour of the Valley is sufficient to conclude that rivers, drains and streams are highly 

polluted with sewage and industrial wastes. The use of septic tanks, pit or pour-flush latrines 

are in use. Bhaktapur and Greater Kathmandu have sewerage systems and sewage 

treatment plants. But the treatment plants in Greater Kathmandu are non-functional. Many 

sewers overflow as there is no regular cleaning and maintenance. This report adopts the 

findings of UN-Habitat (2009) that overall, 30% of houses have a septic system. UN-Habitat 

estimated that there are 77,000 septic systems in the Valley. Only 35% have a soak-pit 

associated with a septic tank. The remaining tanks presumably discharge septic tank 

effluent direct to surface flows. 

173 Storm water drains that were constructed more than 60 years ago in the core areas 

are being used as combined sewers. Sanitary sewers have been added to some areas of 

Greater Kathmandu and there are about 96,000 sewer connections (KUKL Annual Report, 

2008). The rest discharge the effluent ultimately to the holy Bagmati River. 

174 Not all households in the Valley districts have toilet facilities. The households with 

toilets account for 81% in Lalitpur district, 90% in Bhaktapur district, and 92% in Kathmandu 

district (CBS 2001). Most of the households‟ toilets do not have septic tanks and they are 

directly connected to the sewerage lines that also discharge into the nearby river. For the 

households having septic tanks, a municipal service is available for emptying the septic 

tanks on a demand basis. But even the municipal authority allows the septage being 

pumped up from the septic tanks to be dumped on the banks of nearby rivers. The Ministry 

of Environment is mandated to regulate unauthorised dumping. Domestic wastewater 

makes up approximately 93% of the total wastewater generation by the cities, and the 

remaining seven per cent is industrial wastewater. Table 15 shows the wastewater 

generated in different municipalities. 

175 The existing sewage treatment plants are not functioning, except for the Guheswari 

treatment plant (There are 5 plants in the Kathmandu Valley out of which 4 are nonfunctioning). 

The newly expanded residential areas are usually devoid of sewers. In a few 

cases, however, sewage is channelled through hume pipe lines connecting to nearby rivers. 

Due to the direct discharge of sewage and wastewater into the rivers without treatment, all 




the rivers in the Valley have been turned into open sewers. It is estimated that about 50,000 

kg of BOD5 per day is produced in the Valley. An average of 20,846 kg BOD/day has been 

recorded for the Bagmati River at the outlet, constituting 42% of the total BOD load 

produced (CEMAT 2000). 

Table 15: Estimation of wastewater generation in Kathmandu Valley, 2001 

Municipality Population (2001) Million litres/day 

Bhaktapur 72,543 3.7 

Kathmandu 671,846 34.3 

Kirtipur 40,835 2.1 

Lalitpur 162,991 8.3 

Madhyapur Thimi 47,751 2.4 

Total 995,996 50.8 

Source: CBS 2001, NWSC 2001 

D. ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES 

176 The environmental impacts due to the laying of pipes for the distribution of drinking 

water and the sewerage system are similar and so they are discussed together in this 

section. The Rapid Environmental Assessments for water supply and wastewater 

improvement are given in Annex 1. 

177 Environmental impacts on the physical, biological, and socio-economic and cultural 

environments during the pre-construction, construction and operation and maintenance 

phases are discussed here in detail with the mitigating measures. 

178 The summary of the anticipated environmental impacts and the mitigation measures 

are given in Tables 16 and 17. 

1. Pre-construction Phase 

a. Environmental impacts due to project design 

179 One of the most important aspect before construction is the identification of the likely 

adverse impacts and their mitigation measures before the commencement of construction 

works. 

180 Identification of erosion prone areas prior to construction is important as they cause 

soil erosion, sedimentation and slope instability. To mitigate these adverse impacts, it is 

necessary to incorporate adequate drainage plans, identify measures and sites for handling 

excessive spoil materials and stabilize unstable areas. The designs and specifications 

should consider minimum vegetation clearance. Wastewater sludge reduction measures 

using the latest available appropriate technologies should be used in the design and 

feasible disposal sites identified. 

181 During the preparation phase, the land areas required by the project should be 

demarcated/pegged; RP (Resettlement Plan) prepared and compensation disbursed. 

Temporary areas required for the project should be identified. This is one of the most critical 

aspect for the success of the project as if not done properly social tensions could rise and 

the project obstructed. The affected people should be informed and satisfied and 

misunderstandings cleared. 




182 Haphazard construction of camps for workers without basic amenities could result in 

social stress and the degradation of the local environment. Therefore it is very important 

that workforce camps with sanitary amenities at designated areas should be established. 

183 An employment policy should be prepared so that the local people may not be 

deprived of the opportunities, thereby raising tensions and dissatisfaction. The local people, 

specially SPAF, PAF and women above the age of 14 should be employed and given first 

preference. Wages should be settled based on DWEC (District Wage Evaluation 

Committee) with the list of employees. 

184 Obtain letters of approval and agreements for (i) temporary acquisition of land and 

properties for use by contractors, (ii) construction in UNESCO recognised heritage sites, 

such as, Darbar Squares of Patan and Hanumandhoka from the Department of 

Archaeology, (iii) digging of roads from the Department of Roads, Lalitpur Sub-Metropolis 

and Kathmandu Metropolis and (iv) construction and cutting of trees (if required) in Balaju 

from the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. Approval for sludge management (collection, 

treatment, and disposal) would be from MOE. 

185 Baseline photographs of the construction areas and water quality of streams and 

rivers that would be impacted would help the project in identifying/justifying/verifying the 

adverse impacts due to construction activities (e.g. cracks in houses, restoration of 

temporary sites to the original, water quality deterioration etc.). 

186 Detailed traffic plans should be prepared to help in mitigating traffic congestions and 

menaces to pedestrians and businesses. 

187 Prepare training in Nepali (or local languages) with notes and sketches on 

Community Health and Safety and Occupational Health and Site Safety. 

188 Prepare a Sludge Management and Disposal Plan and provide a buffer zone, taking 

into consideration the existing land availability. 

2. Construction Phase 

a. Environmental impacts due to project construction 

i. Physical Environment 

Soil erosion, and slope stability due to excavation 

189 Impacts likely to occur from the improvement and construction of water distribution 

and sewerage systems will include trench excavations and topsoil stripping which may 

induce soil erosion, and slope instability. Haphazard disposal of spoil materials may create 

erosion problems, disturbances to the existing drainage lines, and changes in the existing 

land use practices. Mitigating measures to be used are: the separate stockpiling of topsoil in 

a safe yard for further use; spoil disposal at designated and stabilized sites; compaction of 

the backfill of excavated areas including replacement of topsoil; avoiding work during the 

rainy season as much as possible; mulching to stabilize exposed areas; use of 

bioengineering techniques (e.g. re-vegetating areas promptly); providing channels and 

ditches for post-construction flows; lining of steep channels and slopes (e.g. use of jute 

matting); preventing off-site sediment transport using settlement ponds, and silt fences. 

190 Impacts of surface water discharges to the local drainage from trench excavation 

can be mitigated by the use of settling tanks before discharging the water to waterways. 




191 Excavation and laying of pipelines at river crossings could have adverse impacts on 

the river water quality and the aquatic ecosystem. Mitigation measures to be used are: 

construction to be done in the dry season only; use of river diversions with bundings; prior 

notification to temple officials of construction activities; and pile driving and foundations at 

pipe bridge sites to be bunded off from the river. 

192 Deep excavations can intercept and interfere with the localized groundwater thereby 

affecting flows from irrigation canals, and springs and wells causing water shortages. 

Mitigation measures to be used are: local wells and springs and irrigation canals to be 

bunded from temporary spoil dumps; local wells and spring fed spouts or kuwas to be 

monitored particularly downhill of excavations plus temporary supply provided if flow is 

affected; permeable base and side backfill required at deep excavated sites or an alternate 

source of drinking water provided at the existing location. 

Change in river hydrology and morphology 

193 The construction, rehabilitation and operation of the water distribution networks and 

sewerage system could have impacts on the river hydrology and morphology due to 

quarrying from river beds for sand and gravel particularly during the dry season. Water 

pollution problems could occur because of the dumping of spoil materials into the river, 

excavation of boulders from the river channel, direct disposal of liquid wastes, and leakage 

of oil and lubricants. Quarrying/mining activities in river/streams for extraction of 

construction materials shall not be done so as to change the river cross sections and 

longitudinal profiles and should be done from approved sources. 

Water and land pollution 

194 Dumping of wastes, discharge of wastewater effluents from toilets into the river can 

pollute the river water making it unhealthy for downstream users. Mitigation measures to be 

used are: avoiding construction of labour camps facilities within the drainage area; providing 

designated areas with collection of bins for wastes; providing toilet facilities and prohibiting 

open defecation; and prohibiting washing of vehicles next to rivers and streams. 

195 Pollution of land and water could also be mitigated by the proper storage of 

construction aggregates, hazardous toxic materials and lubricating oils in safe areas 

(warehouses), used tyres, exhausted batteries; and the proper segregation and disposal of 

chemical containers, packaging materials, plastic bags etc. Provide training to the workforce 

on the safe handling of toxic materials and OHS measures during construction could help in 

mitigating many of the adverse impacts mentioned above. 

Pollution due to air, noise and vibrations 

196 Earth excavation, construction materials and stockpiling, aggregate crushing, drilling, 

quarrying and plying of vehicles will produce dust (TSP, PM10), hydrocarbons (CO, CO2, 

CH4), SO2, NOX, H2S, etc., noise and vibrations. Plying of trucks on non-metallic roads will 

produce huge amounts of dust thereby deteriorating the air quality and increase noise levels 

to above 90 dBA affecting health. Annex 6 gives the national ambient air quality standards 

for Nepal. 




Table 16: Summary of mitigation measures for Water Supply Components 

Project Stage Project Activity Potential Environmental Impacts Proposed Mitigation Measures 

Pre-Project 

Activity (Project 

Design) 

Preparation for 

construction 

Incorporation of critical 

areas in project design 

1. Soil erosion and slope instability Incorporate measures and sites for handling excessive spoil 

materials 

Incorporation of drainage plan in final design 

Training preparation 2.Health and safety of community 

and workers 

Location of pipes 3. Interference with other utilities 

Estimation of sludge 

volume (wastewater) 

and provision for their 

disposal 

Incorporation of 

bypassing 

arrangements 

Location of water and 

sewage pipes in same 

trench 

Design of sludge 

drying beds 

Preparation of 

Project Site 

Pegging of the land 

area (permanent and 

temporary) required by 

the project 

Prepare RP 

Prepare training in Nepali (or local languages) with notes and 

sketches on Community Health and Safety and Potential 


Place water pipes and sewers away from existing utilities during 

design and 

Provide budget for restoration/replacement of damaged utilities 

4. Sludge waste problem Incorporation of sludge reduction measures in design and identify 

feasible disposal sites 

5. Overflow of sewage causing 

health hazards 

6. Contamination of water supply 

causing health hazards and disease 

outbreaks due to sewage infiltration 

7.Risk of ground water pollution 

due to seepage; nuisance due to 

smell 

1. Illegal occupation/encroachment 

of property 

Provide bypassing arrangements to control overflow since 

sewerage network will be in built-up areas; detailed design to 

minimize overflow and flooding 

Water pipes and sewers should be placed in different trenches 

opposite to each other (if on the same side, have enough space to 

avoid seepage with the water pipe above the sewer; close 

coordination between water and sewerage system designers 

Institutional 

Responsibility 

DSC/KUKL/PID 

DSC/KUKL/PID 

Appendix 9 - IEE Page 41 

Cost 

(Rs) 

DSC cost 

DSC cost 

DSC/KUKL/PID DSC cost 




Proper design to avoid any possibility of ground water pollution by DSC/KUKL/PID DSC cost 

providing a clay liner or a geomembrane liner at the bed bottom and 

proper drainage to avoid flooding; provide a buffer zone around the 

treatment plant 

Delineate project land and prepare the list of project affected people 

and resources 

Prepare RAP 

Notify the people 

Provide compensation 

Implement RP 

Maintain records of trees and other properties likely to be affected 

KVWSMB/KUKL/ 

Contractor/DSC 

Not 

available 

(KVWSMB 

cost)


Construction 

Phase: Physical 

Environment 

Identify the temporary 

areas required by the 

project and locate them 

with proper marking 

Consult relevant 

persons and submit 

applications to get 

approvals 

Submit such 

agreement and permits 

to DSC for official 

information 

Construct workforce 

camp 

Make employment 

policy for local and 

affected people as per 

EMP 

Baseline photographs 

of project area 

(including buildings 

and temporary sites) 

and river water quality 



2. May result in social tensions Prepare the details of contractor‟s temporary land use and other 

private properties and discuss with owners 

Submit to DSC 

Follow RP for temporary acquisition 

3. May result in social conflict and 

legal obstructions resulting in delay 

of work; 

4. Haphazard camps resulting in 

social stress and degradation of 

local environment 

5. Local people may be deprived of 

opportunities, minors may be 

employed 

6. False claims from people; water 

quality changes due to construction 

Obtain Letters of Approval and agreement for (i) temporary 

acquisition of land and properties, (iii) disruption of water supply, 

and irrigation canals, (iv) get required permits (e.g. cutting trees 

from the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, construction works in 

Heritage Sites of Patan and Darbar Square from the Department of 

Archaeology) 

Ensure consultation with the Department of National Parks and 

Wildlife Conservation for construction works in Balaju Reservoir and 

get required clearances 

Transfer land and treatment plant in KVWSMB‟s name 

Establish workforce camps with sanitary amenities at designated 

sites only 

Employ local people (not under age 14) especially SPAF, PAF and 

women in jobs 

Settle wage rate based on DWEC and provide the list of employees 

to DSC 

Take photographs of buildings and temporary sites before 

construction for verifications; measure water quality of rivers and 

streams before construction 

Institutional 


KVWSMB/KUKL 

DSC/Contractor 

KVWSMBKUKL 

/PID 

Contractors/DSC 

Contractors/ 

DSC 


Cost 

(Rs) 

None 

None 

Contractor 

cost 

Contractor 

cost 

KUKL/DSC DSC cost 

Prepare traffic plans 7. Traffic congestion and public Prepare traffic plans to prevent traffic jams and annoyances to the 

annoyance 

public. 

Construction Activity 

Disposal of excess 1a. Soil erosion, and slope instability 1a. Separate stockpiling of topsoil for further use; spoil disposal Contractors/DSC 

materials in designated due to topsoil stripping and at designated and stabilized sites; excavated areas‟ backfill to be 

area 

excavation for trenches 

compacted and include replacement of topsoil; adopt cut and fill 

Apply Bio-engineering 

approach; avoid work during the rainy season as much as possible; 

for controlling of 

mulching to stabilize exposed areas; use bioengineering techniques 

erosion 

(e.g. re-vegetating areas promptly); provide channels and ditches 

for post-construction flows; lining of steep channels and slopes (e.g. 

use of jute matting); prevent off-site sediment transport using 

settlement ponds, silt fences. 


Contractor 

cost


Quarrying from river 

bed 

Dumping of waste in 

the river 

Construction of toilets 

in the camps 

Storing of materials in 

the project area 

Handling of toxic 

materials 

Dumping of excess 

materials 

1b. Surface water discharges to 

local drainage from trench 

construction. 

1c. Runoff from construction areas 

including stockpiled materials. 

1d. Excavation and laying of 

pipeline at river crossings could 

impact the river water quality and 

ecosystem. 

1e. Interception and interference 

with localized groundwater flows 

due to deep excavations. 

2. Change in River Hydrology and 

Morphology 



1b. Use of settling basins at reservoir sites; use of straw for filtering 

of small discharges; routine inspection and monitoring of larger 

discharges to water courses. Excavation dewatering to use 

settlement tanks. 

1c. Use of temporary bunds; use of catchment basins. Soil / sand 

stockpiles to be graded to prevent erosion. 

1d. Construction to be done in the dry season only; use of river 

diversions with bundings; prior notification of construction activities, 

schedule and affected areas including anticipated effects in river 

sections 

1e. Local wells, springs and irrigation canals to be bunded from 

temporary spoil dumps; local wells and spring fed spouts or kuwas 

to be monitored particularly downhill of reservoir excavations plus 

temporary supply provided if flow is affected; permeable base and 

side backfill required at deeply excavated reservoir sites or an 

alternate source of drinking water provided at the existing location. 

Quarrying/mining activities in river/streams for extraction of 

construction materials shall not be done so as to change the river 

cross sections and longitudinal profiles. 

3. Water and land pollution Provide designated areas with collection bins for wastes. 

Provide toilet facilities and prohibit open defecation. 

Prohibit washing of vehicles next to rivers and streams. 

Proper storage of construction aggregates, hazardous and toxic 

materials, lubricating oils and used batteries in safe areas and the 

proper segregation and disposal of chemical containers, packaging 

materials, plastic bags etc. 

Provide training to workforce on safe handling of toxic materials and 

OHS measures during construction. 

Institutional 


Contractors / 

DSC 

Contractors / 

DSC 


Cost 

(Rs) 

Contractor 

cost 

Contractor 

cost


Construction 

Phase: 

Biological 

Environment 

Quarrying operations 

Movement of vehicles 

Operation of crusher 

Earthworks 

Stockpiling of 

construction waste and 

construction materials 



Operation of 

construction 

machineries and 

equipment 

Horn honking 


Vegetation clearance 

for construction of 

project structures 

Fuel wood and NTFPs 

collection by workforce 

and vegetation 

clearance for 

construction activities. 



4. Air Quality deterioration Dust suppression on roads or at open sites by sprinkling water as 

required at regular intervals. 

Cover earth stockpiles using plastic sheets or cement jute bags. 

Routine monitoring of dust (TSP) to meet air quality standards 

(Annex 6). 

Limit vehicle speed. 

See that vehicles comply with the National Vehicle Mass Emission 

Standards, 2056 BS. 

Regular maintenance of vehicles. 

Provide proper ventilation in confined working areas. 

5. Noise and vibration Monitoring of noise levels regularly at site to meet the noise 

standards (Annex 7) 

Fit mufflers in vehicles to control noise. 

Limit the speed s of vehicles. 

Ban the use of power horns in vehicles. 

Regular maintenance of equipment. 

Prohibit the operation of crushing plants and construction vehicles 

between 7 PM to 6 AM in residential areas. 

Compensate the damages caused by vibration if caused by 


1. Vegetation clearance Cut only trees that are marked and have been okayed by the 

Department of Forestry. 

Institutional Cost 

Responsibility (Rs) 

Contractors/DSC Contractor 

cost 



Contractor 

cost 

Contractor 

cost 

2.Loss of vegetation species Prohibit the use of fuelwood and timber collection. 


Prohibit illegal collection of NTFPs and trade. 

Provide LPG/kerosene to workforce. 

Stockpile the felled trees and take permission from concerned 

authority for its use 

Plant and rear tree saplings at the rate of 25 saplings for each felled 

tree. 

Compensate all private trees and community forests affected. 

cost 

3. Damages to fisheries and aquatic 

ecology of riverbeds and habitats. 

Dry season construction only and use of river diversions and 

bunding off of work sections. 


cost 



Construction 

Phase: Socio- 

Economic 

Environment 


Compensation and 

Rehabilitation as per 

RP 

Reinstatement of 

damaged community 

services and 

infrastructures. 

Influx of outside 

workforce, money and 

unwanted activities. 

Project Activities 

relating to health and 

safety issues at work 

areas 

1. Temporary land and housing 

acquisition and compensation to 

affected people 

2. Reinstatement of community 

services and infrastructures 

3. Increase in crime and community 

stress 

4. Health and hygiene 

(unsafe working conditions, 

accidents, fire hazard, transmission 

of communicable diseases etc.) 



Institutional 


Avoid involuntary displacement. 

KVWSMB/KUKL/ 

Compensation resettlement according to agreed Entitlements Policy Contractor 

/DSC/Grievance 

and RP. 

Redress 

Arrangement of “redress grievance committee” 

Committee 

Temporary sites should be restored to natural or stable conditions 

as per agreement with land owner. 

Exposed areas of temporary sites planted with endemic vegetation. 

Proponent report in writing that temporary areas have been vacated 

and restored to pre-project conditions before acceptance of the 

works. 

Provide employment opportunity to the affected people. 

Provide all possible assistance to the displaced people until they 

are settled 

Provide disturbance and rehabilitation costs. 

Protect traditional rights of locals. 

Compensate for any loss of crops, trees and other natural 

resources. 

Photographs of the damaged structures should be taken and 

compared to the baseline photographs taken before construction. 

Establish technical committee to assess compensation for damages 

caused by vibration. 

Compensate or reinstate/relocate community assets that are KVWSMB/KUKL/ 

disturbed such as irrigation canals, electricity poles, telephone lines, Contractor/DSC 

drinking water pipes, sewerage lines, roads, etc. to the satisfaction 

of the people. 

Prohibit gambling and alcohol consumption in contractors‟ camp 

sites. 

Instruct the outside workforce to respect the local cultures, 

traditions, rights etc. 

Provide security in contractors‟ camps. 

Provide regular health checkups, proper sanitation and hygiene, 

health care, and control of epidemic diseases to the workforce. 

Launch awareness programs concerning human trafficking and the 

possibility of spread of STDs and HIV/AIDS using brochures, 

posters, and signboards. 

Make available first aid kits, ambulance and fire extinguishers in 

camp sites. 

KVWSMB/KUKL/ 

Contractor 

Contractors/DSC/ 

KVWSMB/KUKL 


Cost 

(Rs) 

KVWSMB 

Contractor 

cost 

Contractor 

cost 

Contractor 

cost 

KVWSMB 

cost 

KVWSMB 

cost 

DSC cost 

KVWSMB 

cost 

Contractor 

cost 

Contractor 

cost


Dislocation of 

archaeological 

artifacts, if any 

Traffic management at 

construction sites 

5a. Loss of Archaeological and 

cultural sites 

5b. Finding of any archaeological 

artifact during excavation works. 

6. Traffic Congestion 

(temporary disruption to local 

access due to open trenches, 

excavation across roads or road 

closures due to construction). 



Make available protection gears to all construction workers and 

compensate for the loss of life or any type of injuries. 

Provide insurance to the workers and training in OHS and 

Community Health and Safety. 

Provide alternate potable water supply during maintenance works 

and notify the public in advance. 

a. Protect archaeological and cultural sites, use manual digging and 

avoid heavy equipment during the digging of trenches for the laying 

of pipes 

b. Inform the Chief District Officer who has to report the findings in 

writing to the Department of Archaeology within 35 days, according 

to the Ancient Monuments Protection Act, 1956 and Rules, 1989. 

Institutional 



KVWSMB/KUKL 

Develop a traffic plan to minimize traffic flow interference from Contractors/DSC 


Advance local public notification of construction activities, schedule, 

routing, and affected areas including road closures. 

Erect alternative routing signage in Nepali and English languages. 

Use of steel plates or other temporary materials across trench 

facilities in key areas such as pedestrian access and sidewalks and 

parking areas. 

Arrange for night-time construction for activities in congested/ heavy 

day-time traffic areas. 

Arrange for onsite “grievance handling” through use of liaison 

officers. 

Undertake trench closure and facilitate surface rehabilitation or 

paving as quickly as feasible. 


Cost 

(Rs) 

KVWSMB 

cost 

Contractor 

cost


Operational 

Phase 

Ensure adequate 

supply of potable water 

to all households in 

KUKL service area of 


Adverse impacts on surface water 

due to suspended solids, residual 

chlorine and other contaminants. 



Adequate treatment (including chlorination) of water before 

distribution. 

Water quality monitoring to be done (according to DWSS 

Guidelines) regularly and residual chlorine to be checked daily at 

taps. 

Regular inspection of pipes for leakage and maintenance; 

implement a leak detection and repair program. 

Pipe flushing Soil erosion Discharge the flush water into the municipal storm water drain; 

minimize erosion from erosion prone areas. 




areas 








camp sites. 







Institutional 


KVWSMB / 

KUKL 

KVWSMB / 

KUKL 

KVWSMB / 

KUKL 


Cost 

(Rs) 

KUKL cost 

KUKL cost 

KUKL cost



Table 17: Summary of mitigation measures for Wastewater System Improvements 

Project stage Project Activity Potential Environmental Impacts Proposed mitigation measures 

Pre-Project 

Activity (Project 

Design) 

Incorporation of critical 

areas in project design 

1. Soil erosion and slope instability Incorporate measures and sites for handling excessive spoil 

materials 

Incorporation of drainage plan in final design 

Training preparation 2.Health and safety of community 

and workers 

Operations and Maintenance (O&M) 

Location of pipes 3. Interference with other utilities 

Estimation of sludge 

volume (wastewater) 

and provision for their 

disposal 

Incorporation of 

bypassing 

arrangements 

Location of water and 

sewage pipes in same 

trench 

Design of sludge drying 

beds 

Selection of the most 

efficient Continuous 

Deflective Separator 

CDS) 

Institutional 


DSC/KUKL/PID 

Prepare training in Nepali (or local languages) with notes and DSC/KUKL/PID 

sketches on Community Health and Safety and Potential 


DSC/KUKL/PID 

Prepare training in Nepali with notes and sketches 

Place water pipes and sewers away from existing utilities during 

design and 

Provide budget for restoration/replacement of damaged utilities 

4. Sludge waste problem Incorporation of sludge reduction measures in design and identify 


5. Overflow of sewage causing 

health hazards 

6. Contamination of water supply 

causing health hazards and disease 

outbreaks due to sewage infiltration 

7.Risk of ground water pollution 

due to seepage; nuisance due to 

smell 

Provide bypassing arrangements to control overflow since 

sewerage network will be in built-up areas; detailed design to 

minimize overflow and flooding 

Water pipes and sewers should be placed in different trenches 

opposite to each other (if on the same side, have enough space to 

avoid seepage with the water pipe above the sewer; close 

coordination between water and sewerage system designers 


Cost 

(Rs) 

DSC cost 

DSC cost 

DSC cost 





Proper design to avoid any possibility of ground water pollution by DSC/KUKL/PID DSC cost 

providing a clay liner or a geomembrane liner at the bed bottom and 

proper drainage to avoid flooding; provide a buffer zone around the 

treatment plant; formulate a Sludge Management Plan (acceptance 

of collected septage as additional loading (quantity and quality) of 

the septage to be considered in design parameters) 

8.Inefficient CDS will increase solid Test several CDS available from different manufacturers and test 

waste in sewers, thereby decreasing them to select the most efficient for removing solid waste from 

efficiency of WWTP 

sewage 

DSC/KUKL/PID DSC cost


Preparation for 

construction 

Preparation of 

Project Site 

Pegging of the land 

area (permanent and 

temporary) required by 

the project 

Prepare RP 

Identify the temporary 

areas required by the 

project and locate them 

with proper marking 

Consult relevant 

persons and submit 

applications to get 

approvals 

Submit such 

agreement and permits 

to DSC for official 

information 

Construct workforce 

camp 

Make employment 

policy for local and 

affected people as per 

EMP 

1. Illegal occupation/encroachment 

of property 



Delineate project land and prepare the list of project affected people 

and resources 

Prepare RAP 



Implement RP 

Maintain records of trees and other properties likely to be affected 

2. May result in social tensions Prepare the details of contractor‟s temporary land use and other 

private properties and discuss with owners 

Submit to DSC 

Follow RP for temporary acquisition 

3. May result in social conflict and 

legal obstructions resulting in delay 

of work; 

4. Haphazard camps resulting in 

social stress and degradation of 

local environment 

5. Local people may be deprived of 

opportunities, minors may be 

employed 

Baseline photographs 6. False claims from people; water 

of project area quality changes due to construction 

(including buildings and 

temporary sites) and 

river water quality 

Prepare traffic plans 7. Traffic congestion and public 

annoyance 

Obtain Letters of Approval and agreement for (i) temporary 

acquisition of land and properties, (iii) disruption of water supply, 

and irrigation canals, (iv) get required permits (e.g. cutting trees 

from the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, construction works in 

Heritage Sites of Patan and Darbar Square from the Department of 

Archaeology) 

Ensure consultation with the Department of National Parks and 

Wildlife Conservation for construction works in Balaju Reservoir and 

get required clearances 

Transfer land and treatment plant in KVWSMB‟s name 

Establish workforce camps with sanitary amenities at designated 

sites only 

Employ local people (not under age 14) especially SPAF, PAF and 

women in jobs 

Settle wage rate based on DWEC and provide the list of employees 

to DSC 

Take photographs of buildings and temporary sites before 

construction for verifications; measure water quality of rivers and 

streams before construction 

Prepare traffic plans to prevent traffic jams and annoyances to the 

public. 

Institutional 


KVWSMB/KUKL/ 


KVWSMB/KUKL 

DSC/Contractor 

KVWSMBKUKL 

/PID 


Contractors/ 

DSC 


Cost 

(Rs) 

Not 

available 

(KVWSMB 

cost) 

None 

None 

Contractor 

cost 

Contractor 

cost 


KUKL/DSC DSC cost


Construction 

Phase: Physical 

Environment 


Adopt cut and fill 

principle during 

earthworks 

Disposal of excess 

materials in designated 

area 

Apply Bio-engineering 

for controlling of 

erosion 

Quarrying from river 

bed 

1a. Soil erosion, and slope instability 

due to topsoil stripping and 

excavation for trenches 

1b. Surface water discharges to 

local drainage from trench 

construction. 

1c. Runoff from construction areas 

including stockpiled materials. 

1d. Excavation and laying of 

pipeline at river crossings could 

impact the river water quality and 

ecosystem. 

1e. Interception and interference 

with localized groundwater flows 

due to deep excavations. 

2. Change in River Hydrology and 

Morphology 



1a. Separate stockpiling of topsoil for further use; spoil disposal 

at designated and stabilized sites; excavated areas‟ backfill to be 

compacted and include replacement of topsoil; adopt cut and fill 

approach; avoid work during the rainy season as much as possible; 

mulching to stabilize exposed areas; use bioengineering techniques 

(e.g. re-vegetating areas promptly); provide channels and ditches 

for post-construction flows; lining of steep channels and slopes (e.g. 

use of jute matting); prevent off-site sediment transport using 

settlement ponds, silt fences. 

1b. Use of settling basins at reservoir sites; use of straw for filtering 

of small discharges; routine inspection and monitoring of larger 

discharges to water courses. Excavation dewatering to use 

settlement tanks. 

1c. Use of temporary bunds; use of catchment basins. Soil / sand 

stockpiles to be graded to prevent erosion. 

1d. Construction to be done in the dry season only; use of river 

diversions with bundings; prior notification of construction activities, 

schedule and affected areas including anticipated effects in river 

sections 

1e. Local wells, springs and irrigation canals to be bunded from 

temporary spoil dumps; local wells and spring fed spouts or kuwas 

to be monitored particularly downhill of reservoir excavations plus 

temporary supply provided if flow is affected; permeable base and 

side backfill required at deeply excavated reservoir sites or an 

alternate source of drinking water provided at the existing location. 

Quarrying/mining activities in river/streams for extraction of 

construction materials shall not be done so as to change the river 

cross sections and longitudinal profiles. 

Institutional 




Cost 

(Rs) 

Contractor 

cost 


cost


Dumping of waste in 

the river 

Construction of toilets 

in the camps 

Storing of materials in 

the project area 

Handling of toxic 

materials 

Dumping of excess 

materials 

Quarrying operations 



Earthworks 

Stockpiling of 

construction waste and 

construction materials 



Operation of 

construction 

machineries and 

equipment 

Horn honking 



3. Water and land pollution Provide designated areas with collection bins for wastes. 

Provide toilet facilities and prohibit open defecation. 

Prohibit washing of vehicles next to rivers and streams. 

Proper storage of construction aggregates, hazardous and toxic 

materials, lubricating oils and used batteries in safe areas and the 

proper segregation and disposal of chemical containers, packaging 

materials, plastic bags etc. 

Provide training to workforce on safe handling of toxic materials and 

OHS measures during construction. 




cost 

4. Air Quality deterioration Dust suppression on roads or at open sites by sprinkling water as Contractors/DSC Contractor 

required at regular intervals. 

cost 

Cover earth stockpiles using plastic sheets or cement jute bags. 

Routine monitoring of dust (TSP) to meet air quality standards 

(Annex 6). 


See that vehicles comply with the National Vehicle Mass Emission 


Regular maintenance of vehicles. 

Provide proper ventilation in confined working areas. 

5. Noise and vibration Monitoring of noise levels regularly at site to meet the noise 

standards (Annex 7) 

Fit mufflers in vehicles to control noise. 

Limit the speed s of vehicles. 

Ban the use of power horns in vehicles. 

Regular maintenance of equipment. 

Prohibit the operation of crushing plants and construction vehicles 

between 7 PM to 6 AM in residential areas. 

Compensate the damages caused by vibration if caused by 



Contractor 

cost 



Construction 

Phase: 

Biological 

Environment 

Construction 

Phase: Socio- 

Economic 

Environment 


Vegetation clearance 

for construction of 

project structures 

Fuel wood and NTFPs 

collection by workforce 

and vegetation 

clearance for 




Rehabilitation as per 

RP 



1. Vegetation clearance Cut only trees that are marked and have been okayed by the 

Department of Forestry. 

Institutional 




Cost 

(Rs) 

Contractor 

cost 

2.Loss of vegetation species Prohibit the use of fuelwood and timber collection. 


Prohibit illegal collection of NTFPs and trade. 

Provide LPG/kerosene to workforce. 

Stockpile the felled trees and take permission from concerned 

authority for its use 

Plant and rear tree saplings at the rate of 25 saplings for each felled 

tree. 

Compensate all private trees and community forests affected. 

cost 

3. Damages to fisheries and aquatic 

ecology of riverbeds and habitats. 

1. Temporary land and housing 

acquisition and compensation to 


Dry season construction only and use of river diversions and 

bunding off of work sections. 


cost 

Avoid involuntary displacement. 

KVWSMB/KUKL/ 

Compensation resettlement according to agreed Entitlements Policy Contractor 

/DSC/Grievance 

and RP. 

Redress 

Arrangement of “redress grievance committee” 

Committee 

Temporary sites should be restored to natural or stable conditions 

as per agreement with land owner. 

Exposed areas of temporary sites planted with endemic vegetation. 

Proponent report in writing that temporary areas have been vacated 

and restored to pre-project conditions before acceptance of the 

works. 

Provide employment opportunity to the affected people. 

Provide all possible assistance to the displaced people until they 

are settled 

Provide disturbance and rehabilitation costs. 

Protect traditional rights of locals. 

Compensate for any loss of crops, trees and other natural 

resources. 

Photographs of the damaged structures should be taken and 

compared to the baseline photographs taken before construction. 

Establish technical committee to assess compensation for damages 

caused by vibration. 

KVWSMB 

Contractor 

cost 

Contractor 

cost 

Contractor 

cost 

KVWSMB 

cost 

KVWSMB 

cost 

DSC cost


Reinstatement of 

damaged community 

services and 

infrastructures. 

Influx of outside 

workforce, money and 

unwanted activities. 




areas 

2. Reinstatement of community 

services and infrastructures 

3. Increase in crime and community 

stress 





Dislocation of 5a. Loss of Archaeological and 

archaeological artifacts, cultural sites 

if any 

5b. Finding of any archaeological 

artifact during excavation works. 



Institutional 


Compensate or reinstate/relocate community assets that are KVWSMB/KUKL/ 

disturbed such as irrigation canals, electricity poles, telephone lines, Contractor/DSC 

drinking water pipes, sewerage lines, roads, etc. to the satisfaction 

of the people. 

Prohibit gambling and alcohol consumption in contractors‟ camp 

sites. 

Instruct the outside workforce to respect the local cultures, 

traditions, rights etc. 

Provide security in contractors‟ camps. 



Launch awareness programs concerning human trafficking and the 

possibility of spread of STDs and HIV/AIDS using brochures, 

posters, and signboards. 




camp sites. 



Provide insurance to the workers and training in OHS. 



a. Protect archaeological and cultural sites, use manual digging and 

avoid heavy equipment during the digging of trenches for the laying 

of pipes 

b. Inform the Chief District Officer who has to report the findings in 

writing to the Department of Archaeology within 35 days, according 

to the Ancient Monuments Protection Act, 1956 and Rules, 1989. 

KVWSMB/KUKL/ 

Contractor 


KVWSMB/KUKL 


KVWSMB/KUKL 


Cost 

(Rs) 

KVWSMB 

cost 

Contractor 

cost 

Contractor 

cost 

KVWSMB 

cost


Operational 

Phase 

Traffic management at 

construction sites 

Release of 

inadequately treated 

wastewater to river 

Overflow flooding 

Discharge of industrial 

wastes 

Sewer cleaning 

6. Traffic Congestion 

(temporary disruption to local 

access due to open trenches, 

excavation across roads or road 

closures due to construction). 

Downstream pollution, health and 

environmental risks. 

Hazards to public health and the 

environment due to overflow 

flooding and groundwater pollution. 

Health and safety hazards to 

workers from exposure to toxic 

gaseous and hazardous industrial 

wastes 

Health and safety of sewer cleaning 

staff at risk of communicable 

diseases 

Environmental impacts due to 

improper sludge disposal and health 

and safety hazards to workers from 

pathogens in sewage and sludge. 



Institutional 


Develop a traffic plan to minimize traffic flow interference from Contractors/DSC 


Advance local public notification of construction activities, schedule, 

routing, and affected areas including road closures. 

Erect alternative routing signage in Nepali and English languages. 

Use of steel plates or other temporary materials across trench 

facilities in key areas such as pedestrian access and sidewalks and 

parking areas. 

Arrange for night-time construction for activities in congested/ heavy 

day-time traffic areas. 

Arrange for onsite “grievance handling” through use of liaison 

officers. 

Undertake trench closure and facilitate surface rehabilitation or 

paving as quickly as feasible. 


Cost 

(Rs) 

Contractor 

cost 

Treat wastewater to meet the effluent standards (50mg/l BOD5 or KUKL/KVWSMB KUKL cost 

less before releasing it to receiving waters; regular monitoring the 

quality of the treated wastewater and that of the receiving water 

upstream and downstream from the outfall. 

Careful design and operation of wastewater system; provide standby 

generators for pumping stations. 

To ensure proper O&M, training of operators to be provided for 

regular inspection, cleaning and maintenance of plant and sewers. 

Train workers in OHS hazards and provide PPE; monitor illegal 

discharge of industrial wastes to the system and enforce strict 

regulations in coordination with the Ministry of Environment 

KUKL/KVWSMB KUKL cost 

KUKL/MOE KUKL cost 

KUKL to ensure operation and maintenance staff of sewerage 

system are fully aware of the hazards in running the system by 

training of operation and maintenance staff in hygiene procedures 

to avoid infection from wastewater and sludge handling and health 

and safety procedures against exposure to hazardous gases; 

workers to be inoculated against infectious diseases and kept under 

medical supervision; emergency procedures to be developed by 

KUKL; protective clothing to sewer cleaning workers. 

KUKL/KVWSMB KUKL cost


Wastewater sludge and 

septage disposal 

Sewer line system 

Communicable disease hazards to 

workers- septic tank cleaners, sewer 

system maintenance workers and 

treatment plant workers; nuisance to 

neighbouring areas due to 

transportation of septage; odour, 

insects and rodents; flooding of 

sludge drying beds during rainy 

season and bed clogging 

Hazards due to blockage of sewer 

lines causing overflows and 

nuisance to people and serious 

health and sanitation problems; 

contamination of soil and 

groundwater 



Dispose sludge at designated areas; impervious clay liners or geofabrics 

to be used on the bottom of the sludge bed treatment plants 

to protect surface and groundwater pollution; implement OHS plan; 

proper (covered) transportation systems to be provided for septage; 

regular O&M (and lime spreading on the drying bed; provide proper 

drainage and regular maintenance 

Workers / operators likely to be working in sewers and confined 

spaces to be provided safety equipment / gas detectors with 

awareness and safety training. Explosive gases generated in the 

sewage treatment process (e.g. methane / carbon monoxide) to be 

collected and either flared or used for power generation. Fire 

extinguishers and training to be provided. Workers who come in 

contact with raw or partially treated sewage and sludge to be 

provided with protective wear (e.g. gum boots, gloves and face 

masks). 

Provision of sufficient O&M staff and equipment for cleaning; 

system to register public complaints (Grievance Redress 

Mechanism) and urgent clearance of system blockages. 



KUKL/KVWSMB KUKL cost 

KUKL / 

KVWSMB 

KUKL cost 




197 Mitigating measures to be employed are: Dust suppression on roads or at open 

sites by sprinkling water as required at regular intervals; covering earth stockpiles using 

plastic sheets or cement jute bags; routine monitoring of dust (TSP, PM10), sound and 

vibrations at regular intervals; limiting vehicle speeds and banning power horns; seeing that 

vehicles comply with the National Vehicle Mass Emission Standards, 2056 BS; fitting of 

mufflers in vehicles to control noise; regular maintenance of vehicles; regular maintenance 

of vehicles; prohibiting the operation of crushing plants and construction vehicles between 7 

PM to 6 AM in residential areas; compensating the damages caused by vibrations to 

buildings and providing proper ventilation in confined working areas. Annex 8 gives the 

recommended standards for vibration from construction sites. 

198 Adverse impacts could be caused due to inadequate buffer zones around pumping 

and treatment plants to alleviate noise and other possible nuisances, and protect facilities. 

Adequate alleviation measures (including developing buffer zones around the treatment 

plants) should be included in the project designs. Noise should be monitored as per 

Annex 7. 

ii. Biological Environment 

199 Although most of the construction and improvement works will take place in urban 

areas, there will be only some impacts on the ecological resources (loss of trees and 

vegetation, loss of wildlife and endangered species, disruption of protected areas, damages 

to fisheries and riverbed aquatic ecology) that could be impacted due to: vegetation 

clearance and loss of species due to construction of project structures; fuel wood and nontimber 

forest products (NTFP) collection by workforce and vegetation clearance for 

construction activities; and construction activities at pipeline crossings over riverbeds. 

200 Mitigation measures are: Cut only trees that are marked and have been agreed by 

the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park/ Department of Forestry for removal and plant and 

rear tree saplings at the rate of 25 saplings for each felled tree; prohibit the use of fuel-wood 

and timber collection; prohibit hunting, the illegal collection and trade of NTFPs; provide 

LPG/kerosene to the workforce; stockpile the felled trees and take permission from 

concerned authorities for their use; compensate all private trees and community forests 

affected. To save the fisheries and riverbed aquatic ecology, work should be done in the dry 

season only and river diversions and bunding-off of sections carried out. 

iii. Socio-Economic and Cultural Environment 

201 As per the approved EIA of 2000 for the Melamchi Water Supply Project, 

approximately 1,100 workers were estimated to be employed every day for the construction 

and improvement of the Water Supply Networks. About 60% of the workers required for the 

project were estimated to be available locally, and at least 30% of the workers should be 

local. Women should be given preference for employment as far as feasible and practical 

and ensure that at least 15% of the unskilled workforce shall be women (Norplan, 2002). 

Compensation and rehabilitation as per the Resettlement Plan (RP) 

202 Contractor‟s temporary land use and housing acquisition and compensation to 

affected people is one of the most important impacts of any construction project if its 

progress is not to be hampered. The mitigation measures are: avoid involuntary 

displacement; compensation resettlement according to agreed Entitlements Policy and RP; 

make arrangements for a “grievance redress committee” to look into the grievances; 

restore temporary sites to their natural or stable conditions as per agreements with the land 




owners; plant exposed areas of temporary sites with endemic vegetation; make sure that 

the proponent reports in writing that temporary areas have been vacated and restored to 

pre-project conditions before acceptance of the works; provide employment opportunities to 

the affected people; provide all possible assistance to the displaced people until they are 

settled; provide disturbance and rehabilitation costs; protect the traditional rights of the local 

people; compensate for any loss of crops, trees and other natural resources and establish a 

technical committee to assess the compensation for damages caused by vibrations of 

construction equipment and vehicles (photographs of the damaged structures should be 

taken and compared to the baseline photographs taken before construction). 

Reinstatement of damaged community services and infrastructure 

203 Construction activities could have adverse impacts on community services and 

infrastructure. Any adverse impacts to community assets that could be disturbed by 

construction activities, such as, temples, bridges and irrigation channels, electricity poles, 

telephone lines, drinking water pipes, sewerage lines, roads, etc. will be mitigated, 

compensated, reinstated or relocated to the satisfaction of the community. When 

excavating trenches for the installation of new sewers or water supply pipes in heritage sites 

(e.g. Patan and Kathmandu Darbar Squares) manual labour shall be employed and the use 

of mechanical equipment avoided. 

Influx of outside workforce, money and unwanted activities 

204 Alcohol abuse, gambling, prostitution and other social disharmony are likely to arise 

in the construction site. There will be an influx of workers from outside to the project site 

with their immediate family members, increasing crime and stress. This will create unwanted 

congestion and exert pressure on the limited local resources. The mitigation measures to be 

carried out are: prohibit gambling and alcohol consumption in construction camp sites; 

instruct the outside workforce to respect the local cultures, traditions, rights etc.; and provide 

security in camps. 

Health and safety 

205 There could be adverse impacts on the health and hygiene of the workers due to 

unsafe working conditions, accidents, fire hazards, transmission of communicable diseases 

etc. to mitigate these adverse impacts, provide regular health checkups, proper sanitation 

and hygiene, health care, and control of epidemic diseases to the workforce; launch 

awareness programs concerning human trafficking and the possibility of spread of STDs 

and HIV/AIDS using brochures, posters, and signboards; make available first aid kits, 

ambulance and fire extinguishers in camp sites; make available personal protection 

equipment (PPE) to all construction workers and compensate for the loss of life or any type 

of injuries; and provide insurance to the workers. Health and safety training for all site 

personnel is very important. Another significant impact is the effect on people and 

communities if water supplies are closed down for extended periods during works on the 

pipe networks. If water supply is unavailable to the people for a long time, there could be 

health risks. If water supply has to be stopped, advance notice to the affected people should 

be given and alternative provisions of potable water arranged. 

i. Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) 

206 The potential occupational health and safety impacts/hazards and mitigation 

measures for the laying of drinking water pipes and sewers in trenches are given in Table 

18. Before construction begins the contractor will inform and provide training to its workers 

on the potential occupational health and safety impacts/hazards and mitigation measures to 

be used during construction. The training must be done in Nepali (or local language of the 

workers) with handouts distributed and information posters. As most of the workers would 




be uneducated, pictorial presentations should be used during the training depicting the 

hazards and the mitigation measures. 

ii. Community Health and Safety 

207 In addition to the construction workforce, the contractor should be aware of the 

adverse health and safety impacts of the construction works on communities along the 

construction areas. The impacts and mitigation measures are included in Tables 16 and 17. 

Anticipated Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures and are summarized below: 

1. Poor drinking water quality supplied and polluted drinking water sources. 

2. Pollution of air on agricultural land, vegetation, houses and humans due to dust and 

vehicular emissions. 

3. Wastewater pollution on land, humans, receiving waters and the environment. 

4. Limited water quantity supplied. 

5. Nuisance due to traffic noise and vibrations. 

6. Nuisance from odours from wastewater treatment plant and sludge drying beds. 

7. Land pollution due to flooding of sludge drying beds. 

8. Traffic accidents and traffic jams. 

9. Possibility of the spread of communicable diseases among the community due to 

poor sanitation and living conditions, sexual transmission and vector-borne 

infections in construction labour camps. 

10. Possibility of the spread of vector-borne diseases due to stagnant water pools 

(creating mosquito breeding habitats) during construction. 

11. Spread of food borne diseases due to street side hawkers (selling unsanitary food) 

along the construction sites. 

12. Inconvenience to the public and businesses due to road diversions. 

13. Possibility of accidents to the people of the community due to trench excavations. 

Dislocation of archaeological artifacts 

208 Kathmandu Valley has a rich and varied cultural heritage including many temples, 

stupas and shrines. The archaeological and cultural sites should be protected and in case of 

relocation, the local communities must be consulted. There is a risk that any work involving 

ground excavation could uncover and damage archaeological and historical remains. If 

there are any chance finds, work has to be stopped immediately and the Chief District 

Officer contacted immediately and the findings reported in writing to the Department of 

Archaeology within 35 days, according to the Ancient Monuments Protection Act, 1956 and 

Rules, 1989. 

209 The Ancient Monuments Preservation Rules 2046 (1989) mentions: 

”4.1.1 Pursuant to Sub- section (5) of Section 3 of the Act, any person or Association willing 

to install telephone and electricity, to dig the land for drinking water and sewerage, to 

construct and repair the road, to shoot a film, cinema, to celebrate festival and fare, to 

dance or to park vehicles or to place the poster and photograph, shall have to submit an 

application to the Department, for its approval in format as prescribed in Schedule- 1 (Annex 

12). 

4.3.2 If the Local Officer found any information of finding of any archaeological object in his 

working District he shall have to fill the description of such object in the form as prescribed 

in Schedule-4 (Annex 12) within 35 days from the date of finding of such object, and, if 

possible, the photograph of such project also shall have to be sent to the Chief Archaeology 

Officer”. 




210 Two areas fall under the UNESCO Heritage sites (Kathmandu Durbar Square, sub-zone 

A 3.3 and Patan Durbar Square, sub-zone A 8.2) where distribution networks and wastewater 

improvements are planned. Prior permission will have to be taken from the Department of 

Archaeology as stated in The Ancient Monuments Preservation Rules 2046 (1989) Section 

4.1.1 above. 

Traffic management 

211 Traffic congestion and temporary disruption to local access due to open trenches, 

excavation across roads or road closures due to construction could have impacts on 

pedestrians, vehicles and businesses. To mitigate this, Traffic Management Plans should be 

developed for areas along the construction works which are of utmost importance to 

minimize traffic flow interference from construction activities. Advance local public 

notifications of construction activities, schedules, routings, and affected areas including road 

closures via VDCs should be made. Erect signage in Nepali and English languages. Use 

steel plates or other temporary materials across trench facilities in key areas such as 

footpaths or livestock routes; arrange for pedestrian access and sidewalks and parking 

areas; and arrange for night-time construction for activities in congested/ heavy day-time 

traffic areas. Arrange for onsite “grievance handling”. Undertake trench closure and facilitate 

rehabilitation as quickly as feasible. Coordinate with the Kathmandu Metropolitan Traffic 

Police Division, the authority in charge of traffic management. Obtain permission from the 

Department of Roads for digging in the main urban roads and from the municipalities 

(Lalitpur Sub-Metropolis and Kathmandu Metropolis) for digging in inner urban roads. 

3. Operational Phase 

a. Water Supply System 

212 Health problems could occur due to inadequate supply of potable water to the 

people. Adequate treatment of water (including chlorination) should be done before 

distribution. Water quality monitoring (according to the National Drinking Water Quality 

Standards 2006) should be done regularly and residual chlorine checked daily at taps. 

Regular inspection of pipes for leakage and maintenance should be done. 

213 Flushing of drinking water pipes could have adverse impacts on surface water due to 

suspended solids, residual chlorine and other contaminants. To minimize the impacts, 

discharge the flush water into the municipal storm water drain and minimize erosion of 

erosion-prone areas. 

214 The potential impacts of the proposed water supply and sewerage project are 

summarised in Tables 16 and 17, respectively. The major concerns are the potential 

impacts of sewerage management, since there is little experience in proper wastewater 

management in Nepal. This project should become a model for well designed, implemented 

and operated sewerage schemes. 




Table 18: Potential OHS (occupational health and safety) impacts and mitigation measures during pipe laying (water and sewers) 

SNo. Potential Adverse Impact Mitigation Measures 

1 Delivery and unloading of pipes and fittings: pipes may move/roll 

or be tampered with by others. 

- Provide secure stockpile for pipes and fittings; unload and stock pipes strictly in accordance the manufacturers‟ 

recommendations and minimize height of pallets/stockpile; use correct manual handling techniques and mechanical 

aids where possible; carry pipes close to the ground while moving and control lifted weights. 

2 Injury to a member of the public during pipe delivery. - Provide fencing and/or barricades as per site risk assessment. Apply signage and pedestrian control. 

- Devise and implement system for site inspection and security. 

- Ensure security and equipment necessary to minimise vandalism. 

3 Traffic can cause personal injury to the public, 

contractors and employees; and vehicle accidents. 

4 Slips, trips and falls, strains and sprains; manual handling injuries 

such as back damage. 

5 Existing underground services can cause explosion, 

electrocution, and damage services. 

6 Excavation by plant and equipment will create noise, falling 

objects, damage to existing surfaces, material spillage and 

injuries by moving parts. 

- Traffic control plan to be developed and areas kept clean and clear of obstacles. 

- Conduct site inspection to ensure access/space is adequate for the task activities. 

- Inform site in-charge before you dig/excavate; check relevant authority (e.g. power, water, telephone) records for 

existing location of services. 

- If in doubt use the experienced service of people in the locality. When using hand prodders to locate pipes, they 

must never be driven into the ground by hammers or other implements. 

- Confirm location of services by “Pot holing” techniques. 

- Operations of plant by licensed personnel. Use personal protective equipment (PPE) – hardhat, high visibility vest, 

hearing protection etc. 

- Maintain a safety working area around the moving plant. 

- Protect surfaces from plant movements. Ensure plant noise control. Maintain clean-up equipment on site. 

- Maintain (specified) spillage control equipment. 

- Employ observers where appropriate. 

7 Falling objects during storage of materials during excavation. - No materials to be placed or stacked near the edge of any excavation. 

- No load to be placed or moved near the edge of the excavation where it is likely to cause collapse of side of work. 

No load handling/movement across excavation. No rollable objects stored uphill from excavation. 

8 Overhead and underground power cables can cause 

electrocution during excavation. 

- Determine location of underground services. If underground power cables are located in the vicinity, exercise 

extreme care while excavating. Consider any restriction on kinds of tools and equipment that may be required and 

comply with the requirements. 

9 Sloping ground can cause the falling of rolling objects. - Maintain good house keeping (remove debris, trip hazards, site tidiness). 

- Select locations to minimise potential for movement. Stack materials at level below excavation. 

- Secure/retain potential falling/rolling objects. 

10 Trench collapse and falling objects. - Support / bench / batter excavation. 

- Keep safe distance from edge of trench. Materials not to be placed or stacked near the edge of trench. 

- No load to be placed or moved near the edge of trench where it is likely to cause collapse of the trench. 

- All trenches to have safety barricades when left open for a period of time. 

- Provide submersible pump to dewater trenches where ground is water-charged. 

- Use personal protective equipment. No load/personnel movement across trench. 




11 Falling into trenches. - Install a shoring system. Where possible backfill trenches. 

- Erect 1.8 metre (min) security fence if open excavation is to be left unattended, or cover open excavation with steel 

plating if left unattended. 

- No personnel movement across trench. 

12 Other risks associated with confined spaces such 

as gases etc. 

13 Trip hazard; dust – eye injury; environmental damage due to 

storage of fill. 

14 Manual handling (shovelling) can cause Strains and sprains; 

injuries such as back damage. 

- Where trench/conduit is considered to be a confined space, use experienced trained personnel. 

- No smoking and use of mobile phone use, and avoid sparking. 

- Secure fill stockpile. Provide a dedicated area for fill. 

- Watering of material. 

- Provide necessary environmental protection measures. 

- Cover fill when unattended or unable to be watered. 

- Manual handling awareness. 

- Adequate rest periods allowed, job rotation, minimise repetitious twisting and shovelling. 

15 Contaminated soil can cause impact on health of persons. - Use protective clothes/shoes/gloves. 

16 Defective materials can cause injuries. - Visual inspection of materials by experienced persons. 

17 Storage of hazardous materials can cause injuries and illnesses. - Handling and storage to be done carefully under guidance. 

18 Earth mounds can cause engulfment and dust can cause eye 

injuries. 

- Control operation of mobile plant by competent person. 

- Watering of material. 

- Control slopes. 

- Delineate earth mounds. 

- Warning signage. 

- Cover when unattended or unable to be watered. 

19 Pipes may move/roll or be tampered with by others causing injury - Provide secure stockpile area for pipes and fittings. 

- Unload and stack pipes strictly in accordance with the manufacturers‟ recommendations. 

- Minimise height of pallets / stockpile. 

- Secure pipes to prevent movement irrespective of slope of surface, secure pipes to prevent movement e.g. sand 

bags. 

- Place against fixed objects which will prevent the movement of pipes. Orientate/select position to minimise potential 

for movement e.g. place pipes normal to slope of ground. 

- Place pipes in secure compound if site left unattended. 

- Minimise waiting time for pipes on site prior to laying. Identify high risk locations in advance, e.g. sloping or soft 

ground. 

- Ensure availability of sand/gravel bags/pegs/timber or other materials for retaining or securing pipes. 

20 Accessing trenches/conduits can cause collapse of trench and 

falling objects; and electrocution if using power tools in water 

environments. 

- Use shoring system. 

- String only sufficient pipes for day‟s work. 

- Return all pipes not laid at end of day to secure stockpile areas. 

21 Personal injury due to working plant and equipment. - Use only maintained equipment fitted with yellow flashing lights and reversing alarms. 

- Maintain a safe distance from working plant. 

- Wear PPE including high visibility clothing and hard hat etc. 

- Perimeter fencing 

- Place trained personnel on the look-out. 

- Have a first aid kit at the site. 


22 Injuries due to lifting pipes and swinging loads. - Correct manual handling techniques. 

- Use mechanical aids where possible. 

- Maintain control of loads when lifting and moving. 

- Carry pipes close to ground while moving if mechanical aid is used. 

23 Delivery pipe/joint failure may cause body injuries during 

pressure testing of pipes. 

24 Injury due to failure of existing pipeline under pressure when 

cutting existing pipelines. 

25 Injury from high water pressure. 

Burns during welding. 

Electrocution during house connection services. 

26 Public hazards due to inadequate compaction; construction 

refuse; inadequate re-surfacing during site restoration. 

High hydraulic/pneumatic pressures during site restoration can 

cause injury due to pipe blowouts of plugs. 

27 Inadequate training, consultation, planning and improvisation can 

cause task specific injuries due to inexperience, inadequate 

consultation or failure to provide appropriate equipment. 



- Use only competent person to perform the task. 

- Adequately secure connecting pipes (safety pins for lever couplings). 

- To prevent joint or pipe section failure, fix brackets close enough together to prevent excessive movement. 

- Don‟t exceed pipe operating pressure, ensure pipe is of correct diameter. 

- Ensure pipe is not damaged. 

- Ensure adequate support where a change in direction or reducer occurs. 

- Pressure for air testing must not exceed 32kPa. 

- Use PPE. 

- Ensure adjacent stop valves are operational/closed. 

- Secure adjacent valves against movement. Relieve pressure in system. 

- Use PPE. 

- Relieve pressure in system. 

- Care with torch and PPE. 

- Earth straps and insulating gloves to be used as services are used for household earthing. 

- Always ensure pipes are cleaned back to bare metal prior to fitting the bridging straps to ensure a direct electrical 

contact between the pipes and the strap. 

- Compaction to specified standard; clear site of debris and refuse; re-surface without leaving gaps or uneven 

surfaces and erect fence around hazardous areas until they are safe and restored. 

- Ensure plugs and compressors are installed and secured against movement; release air before removing plugs and 

clear area of pipe ends being tested. 

- All personnel on-site to be trained and kept aware, should be suitably qualified and competent supervision to be 

provided on-site. 

28 Misuse of equipment/fire hazards can cause fire/explosions. - Care to be taken when refuelling machinery with petrol to ensure engines aren‟t running and there are no naked 

flames in the vicinity; oxy-acetylene and gas equipment must be used strictly in accordance with the manufacturers 

safe operating procedures. 

- All personnel working on the site are to be trained in the correct operation of the tools and equipment they are 

using. 

- All tools and equipment are to be serviceable and in safe condition. 

- All electrical tools are to be fitted with current test tags. 

- Fire extinguishers are to be located on site. 

- No work during high fire danger unless dry vegetation is cleared and/or watered down prior to carrying out hot work. 

- Avoid driving or parking motor vehicles on long dry grass as the heat generated by the exhaust could start a fire. 


29 Exposure to ultra violet light, glare can cause skin cancer, 

sunburn, eye damage 

30 Weather conditions (e.g. hot, cold, wet, flooding/inundation, 

electrical storms, high winds) can cause dehydration and 

dizziness. 



- Use of protective clothing, sunscreen, flap on hard hat and proper sunglasses. 

- Supply adequate drinking water in work area. 

- Provide protection from UV rays. Use of PPE. 

31 Slippery surfaces can cause slips and falls. - Non-slip safety footwear to be worn on all worksites. 

- Extreme care when working in wet and slippery areas. 

- Personnel should never run on worksite. 

32 Untidy site can cause slips and falls. - Keep worksite clean and tidy at all times. 

33 Materials stored may be dislodged and fall onto people 

or property particularly when site is unattended. 

- Materials to be stored in a safe manner. 

34 Public safety make be at risk due to pipes or drums accidentally 

rolling onto the roadway causing 

an accident or may be rolled by unauthorised persons particularly 

when site is unattended causing injury to persons. 

- All materials to be secured by blocks or wedges, sandbags or other means. 

- All pipes not laid during the course of a day are to be returned to the stockpile and secured appropriately. 

35 Public safety may be at risk due to improper storage of plant. Store/park plant and equipment off site and in a secure area. 

36 Nuisance due to excavated soil. Deterioration of air quality due 

to dust. 

37 Soil erosion, silt runoff and settling of street surfaces. Water 

could get polluted; land values degraded and be a nuisance to 

pedestrians. Street surfaces would settle, bringing about ponding 

of water. 

Safe disposal and re-use of excavated soil. Remove waste soil as soon as it is excavated. Sprinkling of water to avoid 

dust. 

Precautionary measures should be taken during construction. Proper backfilling of excavated trenches should be done 

and construction activities should be, as far as possible, avoided during the rainy season. Temporary diversions and 

sign boards for pedestrians to be provided. 

38 Workers and the public are at risk from accidents on site - Prepare and implement a site health and safety plan that includes measures to: 

o exclude the public from all construction sites 

o ensure that workers use protective equipment 

o provide health and safety training for personnel 

o follow documented procedures for site activities 

o keep accident reports and records 

- As far as possible, the local people (who know the local conditions) should be hired. 

39 Local residents and sites of social/cultural importance may be 

disturbed by noise, dust and impeded access 

- Carry out the work as quickly as possible to minimise disturbances. 

- Consult residents; inform them of work in advance. 

40 Pollution of water distributed can cause health hazards. - Locate distribution pipes away from drains to avoid infiltration of drain water. 




215 Hazards to public health due to overflow flooding, and groundwater pollution due to 

failure of the sewerage system could have adverse impacts to human health and the 

environment. The system will have to be carefully designed and operated. The project 

design should include stand-by generators for pumping stations. 

216 Health and safety hazards to workers could occur from toxic gases and hazardous 

materials which maybe contained in sewage flow and exposure to pathogens in sewage and 

sludge. The workers should be trained in the management of OHS hazards and provided 

with PPE. 

217 Discharge of hazardous materials and illegal disposal of industrial waste discharges 

into sewers, could damage the wastewater system and be dangerous to workers. Monitor 

that the existing industries do not illegally discharge their effluents into the sewer system. 

Regulations should be developed and enforced by the Ministry of Environment (to control 

illegal waste discharges into the sewers). 

Residual Impacts 

218 No matter what mitigating measures are used, some residual negative impacts will 

remain throughout the life of the project as given in Table 19. 

Table 19: Residual negative impacts 

SNo. Impacts Residual Impacts 

1 Due to relocation of 

squatters from existing 

property of KVWSMB 

2 Due to soil erosion, and soil 

and water quality 

deterioration 

1. Hurt sentiments at leaving land occupied for many years. 

2. Have to start anew and get established again in a new 

environment. 

3. 100% of soil erosion, and soil and water quality cannot be 

mitigated. 

3 Due to air pollution 4. Some dust and vehicular emissions will escape and have 

minimum impacts on agricultural land, vegetation and the 

people. 

4 On the biological ecosystem 5. Unwanted activities (e.g. hunting, fishing etc.) can still occur 

beyond control. 

5 On social life 6. Unwanted activities (e.g. drinking, illicit activities in temporary 

camps etc.) can still occur beyond control. 

6 Due to noise pollution 7. Some unavoidable noise disturbance during peak construction 

periods. 

7 Due to incomplete treatment 

of wastewater 

8 Due to odours from the 

wastewater treatment plant 

and sludge drying beds 

9 Due to incomplete water 

treatment and shutoff of the 

water supply system 

8. Fluctuations of loading rates in the wastewater treatment plant 

could reduce its efficiency as designed thereby reducing the 

effluent quality. 

9. Load shedding which is very frequent in Nepal and the 

unavailability of fuel for the standby generators (due to 

frequent bandhs) would also decrease the efficiency of 

treatment. 

10. Buffer zones around the wastewater treatment plant and 

sludge drying beds will not mitigate odours 100%. Some odour 

will still prevail around. 

11. Nepal is dependent on alum and bleaching powder from India 

for the treatment of water and frequent transportation bandhs 

could exhaust the chemical stocks. So it is important that 

ample chemicals should be kept in stock for emergencies. 




Potential Environmental Enhancement Measures 

219 Potential environmental measures that shall be taken by KUKL before the project 

commences are: 

Training and awareness programs in health and sanitation, occupational health 

and safety measures (OHS), community health and safety and usage of water 

and its importance (water cost, savings, reuse, recycle, water pollution etc.) to 

the general public; and 

Technical training of supervision staff on plumbing, chlorination, water testing, 

pump maintenance and repair, treatment plant operation and electrical works for 

water supply and sewerage projects. 

220 Sufficient human resources should be trained in maintaining the water and sewerage 

systems and treatment plants. The efficiency of the treatment plants should be well 

recorded by regularly monitoring the water and wastewater characteristics. 

221 There are many environmental youth clubs in the Kathmandu Valley. They should be 

mobilized to monitor the environment in the areas near wastewater effluent outfalls and 

report problems to KUKL. 

222 KUKL, with the help of academic institutes, should finance research on the feasibility 

of using of sludge for agriculture and in brick-making, as practiced in other countries, which 

would reduce the environmental problems. 

223 Every wastewater treatment plant should have a basic laboratory for the analysis of 

wastewater and a dedicated, trained and qualified laboratory technician. 

Trans-boundary and Cumulative Impacts 

224 There will be no environmental trans-boundary and cumulative impacts e.g. air 

pollution, abstraction of water, loss of habitat or pollution of international waterways. 

Environmental and socio-economic impacts have already been mentioned earlier. Concrete 

sewer pipes can be manufactured locally which will be a boost to the local construction 

industries. 

225 The project will help in the development of the employment opportunities and 

enhance the local labour skills in pipe laying for future works in Nepal. 

E. ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES WITH AND WITHOUT PROJECT SITUATIONS 

1. Without the Project / Zero Option 

226 The rapid urbanization and population growth have brought uncontrollable 

deterioration of the environment of the Kathmandu Valley. The untreated domestic 

wastewater is on the increase polluting surface waters and groundwater. The drinking water 

quality and quantity have also decreased bringing adverse impacts to human health, 

physical and chemical environment (BOD and TSS increasing above the threshold levels), 

and the biological environment and the ecosystem (aquatic life). Aquatic life in the rivers of 

the Kathmandu Valley has almost disappeared and the holy rivers have become “unholy” 

and literally open sewers. The water quality downstream has also been affected thereby 

decreasing the Quality of Life. The adverse impacts on the social and cultural environment 

will be: increase in water borne diseases; unusable river water for irrigation and other 




purposes; loss in aesthetics (due to smell etc.), cultural values and deterioration of cultural 

sites (ghats, temples and shrines). 

227 Tariffs are very low in the Valley and there is little scope for increasing the tariff until 

the water supply is regular, sufficient and safe for drinking. As the tariff is low and the 

availability of supply is low the revenue is very low due to low consumption of water. The 

consumers presently bear high costs to purify the water consumed since alternative water 

sources for domestic use are often polluted. Consumers also bear high costs for ground 

water pumping and rely on tankers due to little or no supply of water. The inequity of supply 

affects the poor severely who need to spend considerable time fetching and carrying water, 

using shallow tubewell, polluted streams or relying on public stand posts. 

228 Without adequate quantity and quality of drinking water and the treatment of the 

wastewater, lives of the people of the Kathmandu Valley and its environment would get 

worse. The Kathmandu Valley is deteriorating in terms of social life, health hazards, income 

poverty and environmental consequences. If all the negative consequences are valued in 

terms of the economic value this will be a huge economic loss to the nation. 

2. With project 

229 With the project, the people of the Kathmandu Valley will have a minimum 2 hours of 

potable water every day and the wastewater treated. Untreated wastewater will no more 

flow into the holy rivers thereby making the rivers clean and improved. There is also the 

possibility of using the treated wastewater for agriculture and reuse. There will be a 

dramatic decrease in diseases and improvement in the health of the people (thereby, the 

Quality of Life) and the ecosystems. Tourism, one of the main industries, will flourish 

because of the environmentally friendly Valley. 

230 Three options on wastewater treatment have been assessed, namely a) disposal of 

domestic and industrial waste water directly downstream of Chovar Gorge through a trunk 

sewer; b) release of partially treated waste water containing 130mg/L of BOD5 to Bagmati and 

its tributary Rivers in Kathmandu with the impacts; and c) release of fully treated wastewater 

containing 50 mg/L of BOD5 to the Bagmati River and its tributaries in Kathmandu. 

231 The wastewater collection networks feeding the existing 4 KUKL wastewater 

treatment plants will be cleaned, rehabilitated and extended, where practical, to include 

recent urban areas. The treatment technologies of the plants will be upgraded in order to 

cater for the larger population that has developed since originally constructed. 

232 Different wastewater treatment technologies were compared in relation to land 

availability and population to be catered for. In consideration of available skilled human 

resources and power provision, oxidation ditches or tower bio-filters were considered 

suitable. These treatment processes can be designed in conjunction with a number of other 

process units (e.g. UASBs) to complement the main process and to meet the effluent 

standards required. 

233 The water supply pipes have been routed along the roads in such a way so as to 

avoid agricultural land as much as possible. Minimum use of machinery and maximum use 

of human labour will be used for construction. The construction schedule has been planned 

to avoid the rainy season as much as possible. 

234 Different pipe materials for the distribution of water were considered and compared. 

To minimize pressure head loss in pipelines uPVC or HDPE pipes have been selected for 

house connections and ductile iron for larger diameter pipes. 




235 However, quantifying environmental and health benefits is difficult because of the 

need for data to establish the magnitude of the impacts of the improvements and to 

separate out the effects of an improved sewerage system from other factors such as 

personal hygiene habits, housing standards, water quality, health department campaigns, 

etc. 

236 Compared to the zero-option (no project at all) the proposed options will bring a 

positive environmental change and improve the public health of the project area population 

by bringing safe water to consumers and improving the wastewater management system in 

the Valley. 

F. INFORMATION DISCLOSURE, CONSULTATION, AND PARTICIPATION 

237 The ADB safeguard policy statement (SPS), covering both environmental and social 

safeguards, requires stakeholder consultations. Also Rule 7 of EPR 1997 (Nepal) states: 

“Provided that, whilst preparing the report of EIA, the proponent shall organize a public 

hearing about the proposal at the area of VDC or Municipality where the proposal is to be 

implemented and collect opinions and suggestions”. 

238 Public consultation is the process of exchanging information with those persons and 

organisations with a legitimate interest in a project and/or who are likely to be affected by 

the project (stakeholders). It is a two-way process that informs and involves the community 

in developing a project, and informs the proponent about issues and concerns, which can 

then be addressed in project design. Information disclosure involves stakeholders in 

monitoring the development and implementation of a project and fosters openness in 

decision-making by presenting documents and other project materials for public scrutiny. 

239 Consultation and disclosure involves consultation with stakeholders at an early stage 

of EA preparation, and throughout project implementation. As a minimum, stakeholders 

should be consulted regarding the scope of the environmental study before work has 

commenced in earnest, and should then be informed about the likely impacts of the 

subproject and proposed mitigation once the draft IEE or EIA report is under preparation. 

The report should record the views of stakeholders and indicate how these have been taken 

into account in project development. 

240 Information is disclosed through public consultation and more formally by making 

documents and other materials available in a form and at a location in which they can be 

easily accessed by stakeholders. This normally involves making draft reports available (in 

the local language) at public locations in the community and providing a mechanism for the 

receipt of comments and making documents available more widely. All safeguards 

documents must be endorsed by the Executing Agency and ADB encourages governments 

to upload all documents onto their own website. For Category A and B-sensitive projects, 

SEIAs and SIEEs are made available to the public through the depository library system, 

and are placed on the ADB website no later than 120 days prior to the Board 

considerations. The full EIA and IEE (B-sensitive) is also made available to interested 

parties upon request. For other category B projects, the environmental analysis is posted on 

the ADB website as part of the RRP. The full IEE reports are also made available to the 

interested parties upon request. 

241 Public consultation and involvement should be given highest priority in the 

implementation of mitigation measures. Public consultation should take place and on the 

basis of decision of the consultation meeting, implementation of mitigation measures should 

be prioritized and should be carried out with the involvement of the local people. 




242 Public consultations were held in the entire process of EIA study of MWSP. These 

processes have taken place for BDS (Bulk Distribution System), DNI (Distribution Network 

Improvement) and WSI (Wastewater System Improvement) for the Kathmandu Valley and 

the results are documented. 

243 Monitoring is one of the components of EMP. Monitoring of physical, biological and 

socio-economic parameters of the environment of the project site should be carried out. The 

outcomes of the monitoring activities should be maintained in a database. The results of 

monitoring should also be disclosed in the form of demonstration, charts, figures, graphs, 

and samples, etc., to the local people, school students and other interested stakeholders. In 

the process of compliance monitoring of the project construction, local people and 

construction workers should be consulted. 

244 Several consultations were held in the Kathmandu Valley in different wards with 

different heterogeneous groups. The project objectives were explained and people were 

requested to give their opinions and suggestions. 

245 The Project Affected People of Kathmandu Valley have been informed from time to 

time about the construction of reservoirs, water transmission lines, the water treatment plant 

and land acquisition together with the project‟s resettlement, rehabilitation and 

compensation modalities. MWSP had formed a NGO committee comprising of donors, 

MWSDB, and NGOs, which held monthly meetings in Kathmandu. 

246 Similarly, the MWSP staff attend regular discussion forums organized by NGOs;(e.g. 

Sunday Forum of WAFED, discussion forum held by NGO for Urban Water and Sanitation, 

Nepal Vasa Misha Khala, Society of Business and Professional Women, Society of Public 

Health Engineers-Nepal, Nepal Engineering Council, Nepal Engineering Association, 

Melamchi Concern Group, FM radio programme etc.). 

247 In addition, MWSP disseminated project information through different media (print 

and electronic media, press release, interaction forums, and newsletters both in Nepali and 

English languages) and prepared a Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) in 2001. During the 

preparation process of RAP numerous consultations were made at different levels of society 

(including local stakeholders, experts, government officials). 

248 A number of household surveys and community consultations have been undertaken 

in the Kathmandu Valley as part of the preparation and design of the Melamchi Water 

Supply Project to determine water sector priorities and needs of the public in general and 

specific communities. Table 20 provides a summary the findings. 




Table 20: Summary of household water use surveys in Kathmandu Valley 

A. Household water use survey (December 2003) 

Sample Size 300 households in urban areas 

86% of the population satisfied with the quality of water supplied by KUKL 

94% were not satisfied with the quantity of water supplied 

78% were discharging wastewater into municipal drain directly 

15% discharged their wastewater into a septic tank 

9% discharged septic tank effluent into municipal drains 

B. TA. 6219 –REG: Survey of Water Demand in the DNI Demonstration Area, 

University of Tokyo, February 2008 

Survey done during May 2005 (dry), July – August 2005 (wet) and March 2006 (winter). 

Sample 

Sizes 

Min Bhawan (Demo-Scheme area) = 422 HHs 

Anam Nagar & Chabahhil (Control groups) (256+259) = 515 HHs 

General Comment: Low quality service of KUKL (low pressure, intermittent and irregular 

supply, haphazard meter reading etc.). Due to the low pressure of water, people use electric 

pump for sucking water from main. The following are the extent of water sucking from the 

pump in different sample area: 

Study area Dry season Wet season Winter season 

Min Bhawan 74.2 % 50.4 % 67.2 % 

Anam Nagar 69.2 % 68.5 % 71.6 % 

Chabahhil 26.3 % 20.3 % 32.3 % 

17.6% HHs had insufficient water from KUKL or just enough for drinking and cooking purposes 

in the wet season, which jumped to 86.2% in the dry season. 

80.3% and 12.4% HHs were satisfied with the quantity of water of KUKL during wet and dry 

season respectively. 

60% of the HHs were satisfied with its quality of water throughout the year 

249 A baseline survey has recently been completed by the University of Tokyo, as part of 

TA4893-NEP supported by PPIAF, which studied the KUKL services to customers in the 

Kathmandu Valley to provide guidance on present water use and future demands. 

250 The Implementing Agency (PID) will extend and expand the consultation and 

disclosure process during the detailed design stage and the implementation (construction) 

of the project. To hear and document the views and concerns and suggestions of the 

affected people, stakeholders and the public so that these can be incorporated in the 

subproject design as and where appropriate. 

251 Several meetings, workshops, and focus group discussions (Table 21) were held 

with stakeholders, mainly technical persons to keep them abreast of the TA and to get 

feedback so as to include them in the CIAMP. The details of the consultations are given in 

the Supplementary Report: TA Consultations. PID will also make copies of the IEE report 

and any other project reports for interested people available in the Nepali language. 




Table 21: Meetings, workshops, consultations and focus group discussions held 

SNo. Date Topic 

1 8 July 2009 Inception consultative workshop 

2 17 July 2009 Focus Group Discussion on wastewater management in 


3 23 July 2009 Focus Group Discussion on population projections and water 

demand 

4 14 August 2009 Focus Group Discussion on asset condition survey and water 

supply zoning 

5 30 August 2009 Steering Committee meeting 

6 16 September 2009 Focus Group Discussion on conceptual wastewater master 

plan options 

7 22 October 2009 Focus Group Discussion on selected DNI pilot area 

8 29 October 2009 Focus group discussion on draft CIAMP 

9 5 November 2009 Meeting on CIAMP 

10 13 January 2010 Presentation and discussion meeting on PPTA progress, draft 

CIAMP and interim feasibility reports 

11 13 January 2010 Focus group discussion on wastewater 

12 1 March, 5 March 2010 

17 March 2010 

a. Consultations with UNESCO staff Mr. Tap Raj Panta and 

Ms. Nipuna Shrestha 

b. Consultation with Mr. Bhim Prasad Nepal, Chief, National 

Archives, Department of Archaeology 

13 8 March 2010 Consultation with Assistant Warden, Mr. Manoj Kumar Shah, 

Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park 

14 21 April 2010 KUKL Consultative Workshop on the Project Loan Feasibility 

Study 

15 13 May 2010 Consultative Workshop on the Project Loan Feasibility Study 

16 17 May 2010 Consultation with Mr. Amit Pradhan, Communication Officer, 

IUCN, Nepal 

252 In addition, the TA 4893-NEP Resettlement Team undertook a survey of 219 

households (including squatters and encroachers, businesses and shops) in the Distribution 

Network Improvement (DNI) pilot area to obtain further information on community water 

sector needs. Results of the survey are included in the Resettlement Plan. 

253 Consultations (Annex 10) have been made with the UNESCO office in Kathmandu 

who advised the Project to “...make necessary coordination with the Department of 

Archaeology throughout the initial planning to implementation stages. The Ancient 

Monument Preservation Act for the Protected Monument Zones would be the basis for the 

safeguard activities within the Protected Monument Zones (Annex 12)”. 

254 Mr. Bhim Prasad Nepal, the Chief of the National Archives, the Department of 

Archaeology, who was involved in the drafting of the Ancient Monuments Preservation 

Rules 2049 (1989), considered that an Archaeological Impact Assessment (AIA) would not 

be necessary for the Project since all works would be done in the existing public roads. 

However, an application should be made by KUKL/PID to the Department of Archaeology 

with detailed drawings of the proposed work according to the prescribed format (Annex 12) 

for obtaining permission to proceed. 




255 Consultations were held with Mr. Manoj Kumar Shah, Assistant Warden, Shivapuri 

Nagarjun National Park for the rehabilitation of the existing 80 year old reservoir, laying of 

800 mm pipe, Mr Shah mentioned that the procedure would be for KUKL/PID to write to the 

Warden of the Park with the detailed drawings for permission. The warden will send his 

comments to the Department of National Parks and Wildlife and KUKL/PID will have to 

follow it up with the Department who will issue the permit. 

256 Consultation was held with Mr. Amit Pradhan, Communication Officer, IUCN, Nepal 

and he advised that the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation is the 

authority to give permissions for construction works within the national parks. 

G. GRIEVANCE AND REDRESS MECHANISM 

257 The Grievance Redress Mechanism as proposed in the Resettlement Plan is also 

relevant here. The Safeguards Unit of PID will be responsible to address the issues and 

problems raised by the local communities regarding the loss of assets, water and sanitation 

etc. during the implementation of the project. The PID Safeguards Unit shall ask the 

Resettlement / Social Development and Environment Specialist of the Design and 

Supervision Consultant (DSC) to assist in the handling of grievances and the community 

level stakeholders should be encouraged to help in the handling of grievances at the project 

sites. 

Grievance resolution procedure 

258 As shown in the Grievance Redress Mechanism (Figure 5) the affected person / 

community will submit grievances / complaints to the Local Consultative Group (LCG). The 

LCG will try to solve the grievance at the project level. If the grievance cannot be solved at 

the project level, LCG will submit it to the Safeguards Unit/PID. The Safeguards Unit/PID 

with the assistance of the Resettlement, and Environment Specialist will help in resolving 

the grievance. If the grievances cannot be solved by the Safeguards Unit/PID, it will be 

referred to the Managing Director of PID. If the grievance cannot be resolved by the 

Managing Director, it will be referred to the KUKL Board of Directors. The proposed 

grievance redress procedure will be as follows: 

Collect grievances/complaints from the affected persons/community. 

LCG will resolve the grievances at the project level and if it cannot, it will be referred 

to PID for resolution; 

The Safeguards Unit/PID and DSC will make field visits to verify the grievances. 

The grievances will be assessed and if required solutions will be recommended. If 

the grievances are not resolved, they will be referred to PD, PID; 

If the grievances still cannot be resolved, PD/PID will refer them to the Board of 

Directors, KUKL. 

259 A Local Consultative Group will be formed representing the whole subproject area. 

The LCG will be represented by persons from the Kathmandu Metropolis, the KUKL branch 

office, PID, women‟s groups, local water user‟s committee/group, etc. The LCG‟s role will be 

very crucial during the planning and implementation of project activities. The group will look 

into the following matters: 

During planning and management 

260 The LCG will be consulted during construction works and informed about the 

modality of project implementation. Their views will be considered in every stage of project 

implementation. 




During implementation 

261 LCG will: 

observe/monitor the works carried out by the contractor;. 

participate in the workshops/consultations organized by PID before and during 

project implementation; and. 

participate in grievance resolution procedures. 

Technical Division 

Figure 5: Grievance Redress Mechanism 

KUKL 

Board of Directors 

Project Implementation 

Directorate (PID 

Safeguards Unit 

Resettlement/Social, 

Environment 

Specialists, Legal 

Officer 

Grievances/Complaints 

Local Consultative Group 

AFFECTED PERSONS/ 

COMMUNITIES 

Design Supervision Consultant 

(Social/Resettlement 

Environment Specialist) 

Redress grievances 




H. ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT PLAN (EMP) 

262 The basic objectives of the EMP are to: 

to ensure that all mitigation measures and monitoring requirements will 

actually be carried out at different stages of project implementation and 

operation - pre-construction, construction and operation and maintenance; 

recommend a plan of action and a means of testing the plan to meet existing 

and projected environmental problems; 

establish the roles and responsibilities of all parties involved in the project‟s 

environmental management; 

describe mitigation measures that shall be implemented to avoid or mitigate 

adverse environmental impacts and maximizing the positive ones; 

ensure implementation of recommended actions aimed at environmental 

management and its enhancement; and 

ensure that the environment and its surrounding areas are protected and 

developed to meet the needs of the local people, other stakeholders and 

safeguard the interests of the common people. 

263 A Safeguards Unit within the Project Implementation Directorate (PID) should be 

established and be headed by a Senior Environmental Engineer with adequate support 

staff. 

264 EMP Consultants as proposed in the Environmental Management Plan of the 

Kathmandu Valley Water Supply and Sanitation (Subproject-2) by PMU/KUKL (April 2009) 

to assist KVWSMB/KUKL for effectively carrying out the Environmental Management Plan 

during the construction of the Project would not be necessary. It is suggested that the 

Loan 1820-NEP Subproject-2 Design and Supervision Consultant (DSC) employ a full time 

environmental engineer/specialist to carry out the EMP. The TOR of the Environment 

Specialist is annexed (Annex 9). 

1. Mitigation and monitoring 

265 Anticipated environmental impacts and mitigation measures have been dealt in 

detail in Section D and Tables 16 and 17. 

266 A detailed self-explanatory environmental monitoring program is presented in 

Tables 22 and 23. The Table lists the environmental impact, its mitigating measures; the 

parameters to be monitored (including location, measurement and frequency) and the cost. 

The program will evaluate: (i) the extent and severity of the adverse environmental impacts 

as compared to what was predicted, (ii) how effective the mitigating measures were and 

compliance with the regulations and the (iii) overall effectiveness of the EMP. 

267 The environmental monitoring of the Kathmandu Valley Water Supply and 

Wastewater System Improvement Project includes field supervision and reporting of project 

activities prior to and during the project construction and operation in order to ensure that 

the works are being carried out in accordance to the approved design and that the 

environmental mitigation measures are fully implemented in accordance with the EMP. To 

help timely identification of the actions needed for correction, a system of monitoring (Figure 

6) has been proposed involving i) front line monitoring ii) monitoring by the government line 

agencies or independent monitors and iii) auditing through the involvement of government 

agencies, donor agencies and independent auditors. The following monitoring mechanism 

has been proposed (EMP, April 2009, PMU/KUKL): 


Impacts / Project 

Activities 

Table 22: Monitoring Requirements (Water Supply) 



Monitoring Plan 

Environmental Impact Mitigating Measures Parameters to be monitored Location Measurements Responsibility Frequency Cost 

Design Phase 

1. Soil erosion and slope 

instability 

Incorporate drainage 

system in final design 

Review if, detailed drainage 

systems with plans have been 

designed 

Incorporation of measures Review if measures to stabilize 

to stabilize unstable areas unstable areas have been 

incorporated in the design 

Incorporate suitable 

measures and sites for 

handling excessive spoil 

materials 

2. Vegetation clearance Develop design which 

requires minimum 

vegetation clearance 

3. Design for sludge 

disposal 

Incorporation of sludge 

reduction measures in 

design and identify 


3. Health and safety of Prepare training in Nepali 

community and workers (or local languages) with 

notes and sketches on 

Community Health and 

Safety and Potential 

Occupational Health and 

Safety 

Pre-Construction Activities 

1. Delineating of Project 

area 

2. Acquisition 

Compensation 

Resettlement 

Delineate project land 

and prepare the list of 

project affected people 

(squatters) and resources 

Prepare RP 



Implement RP 

Review if provisions for proper 

disposal of excess materials 

have in incorporated in the 

design 

Review suggested sites 

Review if minimal clearance of 

vegetation with alternatives has 

been considered. 

Review if designs for sludge 

management have been made 

and the suggested disposal 

sites. 

Review information for errors 

and quality 

Review records of loss of private 

properties, affected people and 

resources and cost implications 

Number of SPAF and PAF 

Compensation payment 

Resettlement and rehabilitation - 

based on RP 

4. Approval of Prepare the details of Details of acquisition needs 

Approval from DSC 

Design document, 

Technical specifications 









None DSC/KUKL/PID and experts 

as required 

Twice (once after first 

draft and once before 

final approval) 


None 

DSC/KUKL/PID and experts 

as required 


as required 


as required 


as required 

Notes and sketches None DSC/KUKL/PID and experts 

as required 

All the project sites Area of land, number of 

affected people , houses 

and resources and total 

costs 

All the 5 reservoir sites See if all payments and 

arrangements have been 

made to the satisfaction of 

the squatters. 

DSC cost 

Twice (once after first DSC cost 






Once before final 

approval 

DSC cost 







KVWSMB/KUKL/PID Once Not available 

KVWSMB/KUKL/PID As required Not available 

Project Office/Site Office See if contracts have been KVWSMB/KUKL/PID Once None


Activities 





temporary site contractor‟s temporary 

land use and other private 

properties and discuss 

with owners 

Submit to DSC 

Follow RP for temporary 

acquisition 

5. Permits and Approval Consult with the 

people/VDCs/and other 

committees and obtain 

required permits and 

approval and Agreement 

for (i) temporary 

acquisition of land and 

properties (ii) disruption of 

water supply, (iv) working 

in uninhabitated Forest 

Department Land, 

national parks and 

heritage sites, and (v) 

6. Pegging of project 

area 

7. Public consultation 

and awareness 

programs 

cutting trees 

Pegging of all 

constructions site and 

labor camp 

Maintain records of trees 

and other properties likely 

to be affected 

Make the stakeholders 

feel they are part of the 

project and it belongs to 

them. 

8. Workforce camps Establish workforce 

camps with sanitary 

amenities at designated 

sites only 

Compensation based on RP 

Letters of Approval, Permits and 

submitted to DSC for information 

/action 

Correct pegging according to 

design 

Records of vegetation and other 

properties maintained 

Arrange meetings, workshops 

and group discussions to 

disseminate project final plans 

and activities 

Project Office/Site Office 

signed with the land owners 

to their satisfaction 

Whether approvals have 

been received from 

authorities 

Project site Demarcation done 

Project sites No. of meetings, awareness 

programs held 

Ensure workforce camps are Project site Visual inspections of 

established within designed area 

wastewater disposal, solid 

with sanitary facilities and first 

waste management, noise 

aid facilities 

and air pollution, health of 

workforce, potable drinking 

water, kerosene availability 

KUKL/PID/DSC/Contractors 

Contractors and DSC 

KUKL/PID/DSC 


Once 

None 

Once Contractor cost 

As required 

throughout the Project 

duration 

PID cost 

($ 600,000) 

Contractors and DSC Monthly Contractor‟s cost


Activities 





9. Job opportunity Employ local people (not 

under age 14) especially 

SPAF, PAF and women in 

jobs 

Settle wage rate based on 

DWEC and provide the list 

of employees to DSC 

Construction Phase: Physical Environment 

1.Change in Hydrology 

and Morphology of 

streams and rivers 


stabilization 

Quarrying/mining activities 

in river/streams for 

extraction of construction 

materials shall not be 

done so as to change the 

river cross sections and 

longitudinal profiles. 

Ensure that irrigation 

canals are not blocked 

due to construction 

activities. Ensure that 

existing flows of stone 

spouts are not disturbed 


activities. 

1a. Separate stockpiling 

of topsoil for further use; 

spoil disposal at 

designated and stabilized 

sites; excavated areas‟ 

backfill to be compacted 

and include replacement 

of topsoil; adopt cut and 

fill approach; avoid work 

during the rainy season as 

much as possible; 

mulching to stabilize 

exposed areas; use 

bioengineering techniques 

(e.g. re-vegetating areas 

promptly); provide 

channels and ditches for 

post-construction flows; 

Number of SPAF, PAF, local 

persons employed, number of 

under-aged people employed. 

Whether the wage rate is at par 

with DWEC 

Cross sections of river before 

construction and during 

construction upstream (at the 

quarry site, upstream and 

downstream) and river 

discharge 

Visual inspection, discussion 

with locals, discharge 

measurements before and 

during construction 

Cut and fill balance 

Drainages systems 

Stockpiling of top soil for its reuse 

Bio-engineering measures 

Management of excessive spoil 

materials 

Project site List of employees (SPAF, 

PAF, local people), age of 

employees, wages 

Kathmandu, Bhaktapur 

and Lalitpur along the 

construction lengths 

Project Site 

Cross-section of river, 

discharge 

Discharges before and 


Visual inspections and the 

local people‟s views if 

excavation and other site 

works have caused soil 

erosion; proper stockpiling 

of excavated soils have 

been done or not; whether 

spoils have been disposed 

in approved areas or not 

and whether the contractor 

has taken mitigation 

measures or not.. 

Contractor and DSC During construction 

every month 

DSC/Contractors 


During construction 

every month 


Regularly 


(Daily/ Weekly) 

None 

Contractor‟s 

costs 

Contractor cost


Activities 





lining of steep channels 

and slopes (e.g. use of 

jute matting); prevent offsite 

sediment transport 

using settlement ponds, 

silt fences. 

1b. Use of settling basins 

at reservoir sites; use of 

straw for filtering of small 

discharges; routine 

inspection and monitoring 

of larger discharges to 

water courses. 

1c. Use of temporary 

bunds; use of catchment 

basins below steep 

reservoir sites. 

1d. Construction to be 

done in the dry season 

only; use of river 

diversions with bundings; 

pile driving and 

foundations at pipe bridge 

sites to be bunded off 

from river. 

1e. Local wells and 

springs to be bunded from 

temporary spoil dumps; 

local wells and spring fed 

spouts or kuwas to be 

monitored particularly 

downhill of reservoir 

excavations plus 

temporary supply 

provided if flow is 

affected; permeable base 

and side backfill required 

at deeply excavated 

reservoir sites or an 

alternate source of 

drinking water provided at 

the existing location. 



Activities 





3. Water pollution 

Avoid camping facilities 

within the drainage area. 

Provide designated areas 

with collection bins for 

wastes. 

Provide toilet facilities and 

prohibit open defecation in 

open areas. 

Storage of construction 

aggregates, hazardous, 

and toxic materials in safe 

areas and proper disposal 

of chemical containers, 

packaging materials, 

plastic bags etc. 

Prohibit washing of 

vehicles next to rivers and 

streams. 

Provide training to 

workforce on safe 

handling of toxic materials 

and OHS measures 

during construction. 

Water quality and health status 

of workers before and during 

construction. 

Streams and rivers of 

project site 

Baseline water quality of 

receiving water (complete 

physical, chemical and 

bacteriological tests). 

Health of workers in camp. 

KUKL/PID/Contractor/ DSC 

Once in a month 

Contractor‟s cost 



Activities 





4. Effect in Air Quality Dust suppression on 

roads or at open sites by 

sprinkling water as 

required at regular 

intervals. 

Cover earth stockpiles 

using plastic sheets or 

cement jute bags. 

Routine monitoring of dust 

(TSP). 


See that vehicles comply 

with the National Vehicle 

Mass Emission 


Regular maintenance of 

vehicles. 

Provide proper ventilation 

in confined working areas. 

5. Noise Level and 

vibration 

Monitoring of noise levels 

regularly at site. 

Fit mufflers in vehicles to 

control noise. 

Limit the speed s of 

vehicles. 

Ban the use of power 

horns in vehicles. 


equipment. 

Prohibit the operation of 

crushing plants and 

construction vehicles 

between 7 PM to 6 AM. 

Compensate the damages 

caused by vibrations. 

6. Solid Waste Problem Store all materials, toxic, 

non-toxic and hazardous 

materials in safe place 

(warehouse). 

Air quality analysis 

Implementation of dust control 

procedures 

Vehicle maintenance records; 

renewal of “green stickers”. 

Baseline noise level 

Adoption of noise level control 

measures as specified 

Photographs of buildings before 

construction; photographs of 

cracks during construction 

Production and management of 

solid waste 

Project location 



Project Site 

Project Site 

Project Site 

PM10, SPM 

Visual inspection if water is 

sprinkled or not. 

Check maintenance records 

and “green stickers”. 

Sound level (dBA); 

feedback from nearby 

residents. 

Contractor/ DSC 




KUKL/Contractor/ DSC 

KUKL/PID Contractor /DSC 

During construction/ 

every week 

During Construction/ 

every day 

Before construction 

and during 

construction(half 

yearly) 

Every week 

Before and During 

Construction 

Project site Check amount of solid KUKL/Contractor/ DSC During the 

waste generated and if solid 

waste management is 

carried out efficiently. 

construction period 


Contractor cost 


PID cost 

Contractor cost


Activities 





Collect, segregate and 

dispose waste at 

designated areas 

Construction Phase: Biological Environment 

1. Vegetation Clearance 

Construction Phase: Socio-economy 

1. Compensation to 


Prohibit the use of 

fuelwood and timber 

collection. 

Prohibit illegal collection 

of NTFPs and trade. 

Provide LPG/kerosene to 

workforce. 

Stockpile the felled trees 

and take permission from 

concerned authority for its 

use 

Plant and rear tree 

saplings at the rate of 25 

saplings for each felled 

tree. 

Avoid involuntary 

displacement. Provide 

employment opportunity 

to the affected people. 

Provide all possible 

assistance to the 

displaced people until 

they are settled. Provide 

disturbance and 

rehabilitation costs. 

Resettlement according to 

agreed Entitlements 

Policy and RP. 

Arrangement of a 

“grievance redress 

committee”. Protect 

Cutting of only the specified and 

marked trees; use of timber and 

wood; availability of 

LPG/kerosene; trade on NTFPs; 

plantation @ 25 tree saplings 

per cut tree 


Rehabilitation measures as 

specified implemented or not. 

Employment of affected people. 

Project Site 

Project Site 

Project Site 

Check records of trees cut 

and planted; whether 

LPG/kerosene is available 

in camp sites. 


Check records of payments 

KVWSMB/KUKL / 

and discuss with affected 

PID/Contractor 

people. 

/DSC/Grievance redress 

committee 

Verify record of 

employment. 

Regularly None except for 

the cost of 

planting saplings 

and to be 

nurtured for 5 

years (@$ 600 

per tree) 

As required 

KVWSMB cost 



Activities 





2. Reinstatement of 

damaged infrastructures 

and services 

3. Crime and community 

stress 

traditional rights of locals. 

Compensate for any loss 

of crops, trees and other 

natural resources. 

Establish technical 

committee to assess 

compensation for 

damages caused by 

vibration. 

Temporary sites should 

be restored to natural or 

Construction sites utilized. 

stable conditions as per 

agreement with land 

owner. Exposed areas of 

temporary sites planted 

with endemic vegetation. 

Proponent report in writing 

that temporary areas have 

been vacated and 

restored to pre-project 

conditions before 

acceptance of the works. 

Compensate or 

Reinstatement of damaged 

reinstate/relocate infrastructures 

community assets that are 

disturbed such as 

irrigation canals, electricity 

poles, telephone lines, 

drinking water pipes, 

sewerage lines, roads, 

etc. to the satisfaction of 

the people. 

Prohibit gambling and 

alcohol consumption in 

camp sites. 

Instruct the outside 

workforce to respect the 

local cultures, traditions, 

rights etc. 

Provide security in camps. 

Situation of social disharmony 

Awareness program 

Project site 

Visual inspection of 

restored sites and reaction 

of the local 

people/landowner as to 

whether satisfactorily done 

or not. 

Project Site Field observation to visually 

assess if disturbed 

community assets are 

reinstated. 

Project Location Crime records and causes; 

camp issues; enforcement 

of remedies; security 

situation in camps. 

KVWSMB/KUKL / 

PID/Contractor /DSC 

KUKL/ PID/Contractor 

/DSC/ 

End of 

construction/leasehold 

Once construction in 

the area is over. 

Contractor /DSC Once a month None 



4 Health and hygiene Provide regular health The use of safety equipment by Project Site Health records; records of Contractor/ KUKL/ Every week Contractor cost 



Activities 





5. Archaeological and 

cultural heritage sites 

checkups, proper workforce 

sanitation and hygiene, 

training in community 

health and safety, OHS 

The provision of health 

measures and training 

measures, health care, Awareness program 

and control of epidemic 

Signs and posters 

diseases to the workforce. 

Launch awareness 

programs concerning 

human trafficking and the 

possibility of spread of 

STDs and HIV/AIDS using 

brochures, posters, and 

signboards. 

Make available first aid 

kits, ambulance and fire 

extinguishers in camp 

sites. 

a. Protect archaeological 

and cultural heritage sites 

In case of relocation, 

consult local community 

b. inform the Chief District 

Officer who has to report 

the findings in writing to 

the Department of 

Archaeology within 35 

days, according to the 

Ancient Monuments 

Protection Act, 1956 and 

Rules, 1989. 

c. Use manual labour for 

digging trenches and 

avoid heavy equipment 

6. Demolition Remove all unnecessary 

structures and reinstate 

the area to its original 

condition 

7. Traffic Management Develop a traffic plan to 

minimize traffic flow 

interference from 


Advance local public 

Compensation for health 

Protection of cultural heritage 

sites 

Involvement of local people 

Removal of temporary facilities 

Reinstall to original condition 

Working schedules and traffic 

plans. Information about 

construction schedule to the 

local people 

outbreak of diseases; 

maintenance of health 

clinic; health complaints; 

number of awareness 

programs launched; 

number of persons trained. 

KVWSMB/DSC 

Project site Field observation of Contractor/SE/ 

archaeological and cultural 

sites and number of chance 

finds to proper authorities. 

KVWSMB/KUKL/DSC 

Project site Visual field observation and 

feedback from the locals. 

Project site Visual observation of traffic; 

complaints from travelers 

and locals; existence of 

signage and effectiveness 

Every month Contractor cost 

Contractor/ KUKL/PID/DSC Once after completion 

of construction 


Contractor/DSC Every week Contractor cost 



Activities 





Operation Phase 

Quality and quantity of 

drinking water supplies 

Pipe flushing 

notification of construction 

activities, schedule, 

routing, and affected 

areas including road 

closures via VDCs. 

Erect signage in Nepali 

and English languages. 

Use of steel plates or 

other temporary across 

trench facilities in key 

areas such as foot trails or 

livestock routes; arrange 

for pedestrian access and 

sidewalks and parking 

areas. 

Arrange for night-time 

construction for activities 

in congested/ heavy daytime 

traffic areas. 

Undertake trench closure 

and facitilate rehabilitation 

as quickly as feasible. 

Treatment (including 

chlorination) of water 

before distribution. Quality of potable water supplied 

Water quality checks to be 

done regularly and 

residual chlorine to be 

checked daily at taps. 

Regular inspection of 

pipes for leakage and 

maintenance; implement a 

leak detection and repair 

program. 

Discharge flush water into 

municipal storm water 

drain; minimize erosion of 

erosion-prone areas. 

Health and safety Provide trainings to 

workers on OHS 

That flush water is discharged 

into the storm water drain and 

does not cause erosion. 

Reservoirs, Distribution 

Network, and public 

standposts 

At flushing points along 

the pipelines 

of speed control and 

diversion measures. 

Residual chlorine, turbidity, 

colour, odour, pH 

Visual observation 


KUKL 

KUKL 

Daily. 

As and when required 

KUKL cost 

KUKL cost 

Number of trainings given Plant sites Quizzes and interviews KUKL Once a month KuKL cost


Activities 

Table 23: Monitoring Requirements (Wastewater) 





Design Phase 


instability 

Incorporate drainage 

system in final design 

Review if detailed drainage 

systems with plans have been 

designed 

Incorporation of measures Review if measures to stabilize 

to stabilize unstable areas unstable areas have been 

incorporated in the design 

Incorporate suitable 

measures and sites for 

handling excessive spoil 

materials 

2. Vegetation clearance Develop design which 

requires minimum 

vegetation clearance 

3. Design for sludge 

disposal 

Health and safety of 

community and workers 

Solid waste increases 

debris in sewers 

Incorporation of sludge 

reduction measures in 

design and identify 

feasible disposal sites; 

prepare sludge 

management plan; 

formulate a Sludge 

Management Plan 

(acceptance of collected 

septage as additional 

loading (quantity and 

quality) of the septage to 

be considered in design 

parameters) 

Prepare training in Nepali 

(or local languages) with 

notes and sketches on 

Community Health and 

Safety and Potential 

Occupational Health and 

Safety 

Provide and test the 

efficiency of the imported 

Continuous Deflective 

Separators (CDS) 

Review if provisions for proper 

disposal of excess materials 

have in incorporated in the 

design 

Review suggested sites 

Review if minimal clearance of 

vegetation with alternatives has 

been considered. 

Review if designs for sludge 

management have been made 

and the suggested disposal 

sites. 

Design parameters for extra 

loading from septage 

Review information for errors 

and quality 

Influent and effluent 

characteristics of the CDS 












as required 


as required 


as required 


as required 





None 

Design considerations 


as required 


as required 

Notes and sketches None DSC/KUKL/PID and experts 

as required 

Before the inlet to the 

WWTP 

Visual inspection DSC/KUKL/PID and experts 

as required 

DSC cost 







Once before final 

approval 










DSC cost 

DSC cost 

DSC cost 

Once a week KUKL cost


Activities 





Treatment plant efficiency Provide O&M manuals in 

Nepali with sketches 

Pre-Construction Activities 

1. Delineating of Project 

area 

2. Acquisition 

Compensation 

Resettlement 

4. Approval of 

temporary site 

Delineate project land 

and prepare the list of 

project affected people 

(squatters) and resources 

Prepare RP 



Implement RP 

5. Permits and Approval Consult with the 

people/VDCs/and other 

committees and obtain 

required permits and 

approval and Agreement 

for (i) temporary 

acquisition of land and 

properties (ii) disruption of 

water supply, (iv) working 

in uninhabitated Forest 

Department Land, 

national parks and 

heritage sites, and (v) 

cutting trees 

6. Pegging of project 

area 

7. Public consultation 

Provision of O&M manuals Treatment Plants Inspection DSC/KUKL/PID Twice (once after first 



Review records of loss of private 

properties, affected people and 

resources and cost implications 

Number of SPAF and PAF 

Compensation payment 

Resettlement and rehabilitation - 

based on RP 

Prepare the details of Details of acquisition needs 

contractor‟s temporary Approval from DSC 

land use and other private 

Compensation based on RP 

properties and discuss 

with owners 

Submit to DSC 

Follow RP for temporary 

acquisition 

Pegging of all 

constructions site and 

labor camp 

Maintain records of trees 

and other properties likely 

to be affected 

Make the stakeholders 

feel they are part of the 

Letters of Approval, Permits and 

submitted to DSC for information 

/action 

Correct pegging according to 

design 

Records of vegetation and other 

properties maintained 

Arrange meetings, workshops 

and group discussions to 

All the project sites Area of land, number of 

affected people , houses 

and resources and total 

costs 

All the 5 reservoir sites See if all payments and 

arrangements have been 

made to the satisfaction of 

the squatters. 


DSC Cost 

KVWSMB/KUKL/PID Once Not available 

KVWSMB/KUKL/PID As required Not available 

Project Office/Site Office See if contracts have been 

signed with the land owners 

to their satisfaction 

KVWSMB/KUKL/PID Once None 

Project Office/Site Office 

Whether approvals have 

been received from 

authorities 

KUKL/PID/DSC/Contractors 

Project site Demarcation done Contractors and DSC Once Contractor cost 

Project sites No. of meetings, awareness 

programs held 

Once 

KUKL/PID/DSC As required 

throughout the Project 

None 

PID cost 

($ 600,000)


Activities 





and awareness 

programs 

project and it belongs to 

them. 

8. Workforce camps Establish workforce 

camps with sanitary 

amenities at designated 

sites only 

disseminate project final plans 

and activities 

9. Job opportunity Employ local people (not Number of SPAF, PAF, local 

under age 14) especially persons employed, number of 

SPAF, PAF and women in under-aged people employed. 

jobs 

Whether the wage rate is at par 

Settle wage rate based on with DWEC 

DWEC and provide the list 

of employees to DSC 

Construction Phase: Physical Environment 

1.Change in Hydrology 

and Morphology of 

streams and rivers 


stabilization 

Quarrying/mining activities 

in river/streams for 

extraction of construction 

materials shall not be 

done so as to change the 

river cross sections and 

longitudinal profiles. 

Ensure that irrigation 

canals are not blocked 


activities. Ensure that 

existing flows of stone 

spouts are not disturbed 


activities. 

Ensure workforce camps are Project site Visual inspections of 

established within designed area 

wastewater disposal, solid 

with sanitary facilities and first 

waste management, noise 

aid facilities 

and air pollution, health of 

workforce, potable drinking 

water, kerosene availability 

Cross sections of river before 

construction and during 

construction upstream (at the 

quarry site, upstream and 

downstream) and river 

discharge 

Visual inspection, discussion 

with locals, discharge 

measurements before and 


1a. Separate stockpiling Cut and fill balance 

of topsoil for further use; Drainages systems 

spoil disposal at 

Stockpiling of top soil for its re- 

designated and stabilized 

use 

sites; excavated areas‟ 

backfill to be compacted Bio-engineering measures 

and include replacement Management of excessive spoil 

of topsoil; adopt cut and materials 

fill approach; avoid work 

during the rainy season as 

much as possible; 

mulching to stabilize 

Project site List of employees (SPAF, 

PAF, local people), age of 

employees, wages 

Kathmandu, Bhaktapur 

and Lalitpur along the 

construction lengths 

Project Site 

Cross-section of river, 

discharge 

Discharges before and 


Visual inspections and the 

local people‟s views if 

excavation and other site 

works have caused soil 

erosion; proper stockpiling 

of excavated soils have 

been done or not; whether 

spoils have been disposed 

in approved areas or not 

and whether the contractor 

has taken mitigation 


duration 

Contractors and DSC Monthly Contractor‟s cost 

Contractor and DSC During construction 

every month 

DSC/Contractors 



every month 

Regularly 


(Daily/ Weekly) 

None 

Contractor‟s 

costs 

Contractor cost


Activities 





exposed areas; use 

bioengineering techniques 

(e.g. re-vegetating areas 

promptly); provide 

channels and ditches for 

post-construction flows; 

lining of steep channels 

and slopes (e.g. use of 

jute matting); prevent offsite 

sediment transport 

using settlement ponds, 

silt fences. 

1b. Use of settling basins 

at reservoir sites; use of 

straw for filtering of small 

discharges; routine 

inspection and monitoring 

of larger discharges to 

water courses. 

1c. Use of temporary 

bunds; use of catchment 

basins below steep 

reservoir sites. 

1d. Construction to be 

done in the dry season 

only; use of river 

diversions with bundings; 

pile driving and 

foundations at pipe bridge 

sites to be bunded off 

from river. 

1e. Local wells and 

springs to be bunded from 

temporary spoil dumps; 

local wells and spring fed 

spouts or kuwas to be 

monitored particularly 

downhill of reservoir 

excavations plus 

temporary supply 

provided if flow is 

affected; permeable base 

and side backfill required 

at deeply excavated 

reservoir sites or an 

alternate source of 

measures or not.. 



Activities 





drinking water provided at 

the existing location. 

3. Water pollution Avoid camping facilities Water quality and health status 

within the drainage area. of workers before and during 

Provide designated areas construction. 

with collection bins for 

wastes. 

Provide toilet facilities and 

prohibit open defecation in 

open areas. 

Storage of construction 

aggregates, hazardous, 

and toxic materials in safe 

areas and proper disposal 

of chemical containers, 

packaging materials, 

plastic bags etc. 

Prohibit washing of 

vehicles next to rivers and 

streams. 

Provide training to 

workforce on safe 

handling of toxic materials 

and OHS measures 

during construction. 

Streams and rivers of 

project site 

Baseline water quality of 

receiving water (complete 

physical, chemical and 

bacteriological tests). 

Health of workers in camp. 

KUKL/PID/Contractor/ DSC 

Once in a month 




Activities 





4. Effect in Air Quality Dust suppression on 

roads or at open sites by 

sprinkling water as 

required at regular 

intervals. 

Cover earth stockpiles 

using plastic sheets or 

cement jute bags. 

Routine monitoring of dust 

(TSP). 


See that vehicles comply 

with the National Vehicle 

Mass Emission 



vehicles. 

Provide proper ventilation 

in confined working areas. 

5. Noise Level and 

vibration 

Air quality analysis 

Implementation of dust control 

procedures 

Vehicle maintenance records; 

renewal of “green stickers”. 

Monitoring of noise levels Baseline noise level 

regularly at site. 

Fit mufflers in vehicles to 

control noise. 

Limit the speed s of 

vehicles. 

Ban the use of power 

horns in vehicles. 


equipment. 

Prohibit the operation of 

crushing plants and 

construction vehicles 

between 7 PM to 6 AM. 

Compensate the damages 

caused by vibrations. 

6. Solid Waste Problem Store all materials, toxic, 

non-toxic and hazardous 

materials in safe place 

(warehouse). 

Collect, segregate and 

dispose waste at 

designated areas 

Adoption of noise level control 

measures as specified 

Photographs of buildings before 

construction; photographs of 

cracks during construction 

Production and management of 

solid waste 




Project Site 

Project Site 

Project Site 

PM10, SPM 

Visual inspection if water is 

sprinkled or not. 

Check maintenance records 

and “green stickers”. 

Sound level (dBA); 

feedback from nearby 

residents. 





KUKL/Contractor/ DSC 

KUKL/PID Contractor /DSC 

During construction/ 

every week 

During Construction/ 

every day 

Before construction 

and during 

construction(half 

yearly) 

Every week 

Before and During 

Construction 

Project site Check amount of solid KUKL/Contractor/ DSC During the 

waste generated and if solid 

waste management is 

carried out efficiently. 

construction period 




PID cost 

Contractor cost


Activities 





Construction Phase: Biological Environment 

1. Vegetation Clearance 

Construction Phase: Socio-economy 

1. Compensation to 


Prohibit the use of 

fuelwood and timber 

collection. 

Prohibit illegal collection 

of NTFPs and trade. 

Provide LPG/kerosene to 

workforce. 

Stockpile the felled trees 

and take permission from 

concerned authority for its 

use 

Plant and rear tree 

saplings at the rate of 25 

saplings for each felled 

tree. 

Cutting of only the specified and 

marked trees; use of timber and 

wood; availability of 

LPG/kerosene; trade on NTFPs; 

plantation @ 25 tree saplings 

per cut tree 

Avoid involuntary Compensation and 

displacement. Provide Rehabilitation measures as 

employment opportunity specified implemented or not. 

to the affected people. 

Provide all possible Employment of affected people. 

assistance to the 

displaced people until 

they are settled. Provide 

disturbance and 

rehabilitation costs. 

Resettlement according to 

agreed Entitlements 

Policy and RP. 

Arrangement of a 

“grievance redress 

committee”. Protect 

traditional rights of locals. 

Compensate for any loss 

of crops, trees and other 

natural resources. 

Establish technical 

committee to assess 

compensation for 

damages caused by 

vibration. 

Construction sites utilized. 

Temporary sites should 

be restored to natural or 

Project Site 

Project Site 

Project Site 

Project site 

Check records of trees cut 

and planted; whether 

LPG/kerosene is available 

in camp sites. 


Check records of payments KVWSMB/KUKL / 

and discuss with affected PID/Contractor 

people. 

/DSC/Grievance redress 

committee 

Verify record of 

employment. 

Visual inspection of 

restored sites and reaction 

KVWSMB/KUKL / 

PID/Contractor /DSC 

Regularly None except for 

the cost of 

planting saplings 


nurtured for 5 

years (@$ 600 

per tree) 

As required 

End of 

construction/leasehold 

KVWSMB cost 




Activities 





2. Reinstatement of 

damaged infrastructures 

and services 

3. Crime and community 

stress 

stable conditions as per 

agreement with land 

owner. Exposed areas of 

temporary sites planted 

with endemic vegetation. 

Proponent report in writing 

that temporary areas have 

been vacated and 

restored to pre-project 

conditions before 

acceptance of the works. 

Compensate or 

Reinstatement of damaged 

reinstate/relocate infrastructures 

community assets that are 

disturbed such as 

irrigation canals, electricity 

poles, telephone lines, 

drinking water pipes, 

sewerage lines, roads, 

etc. to the satisfaction of 

the people. 

Prohibit gambling and 

alcohol consumption in 

camp sites. 

Instruct the outside 

workforce to respect the 

local cultures, traditions, 

rights etc. 

Provide security in camps 

Situation of social disharmony 


4 Health and hygiene Provide regular health The use of safety equipment by 

checkups, proper workforce 

sanitation and hygiene, The provision of health 

training in community measures and training 

health and safety, OHS 


measures, health care, 

and control of epidemic Signs and posters 

diseases to the workforce. Compensation for health 

Launch awareness 

programs concerning 

human trafficking and the 

possibility of spread of 

STDs and HIV/AIDS using 

brochures, posters, and 

signboards. 

Make available first aid 

of the local 

people/landowner as to 

whether satisfactorily done 

or not. 

Project Site Field observation to visually 

assess if disturbed 

community assets are 

reinstated. 

Project Location Crime records and causes; 

camp issues; enforcement 

of remedies; security 

situation in camps. 

Project Site Health records; records of 

outbreak of diseases; 

maintenance of health 

clinic; health complaints; 

number of awareness 

programs launched; 

number of persons trained. 

KUKL/ PID/Contractor /DSC/ 

Once construction in 

the area is over. 

Contractor /DSC Once a month None 

Contractor/ KUKL/ 

KVWSMB/DSC 


Every week Contractor cost 



Activities 





5. Archaeological and 

cultural heritage sites 

kits, ambulance and fire 

extinguishers in camp 

sites. 

a. Protect archaeological 

and cultural heritage sites 

In case of relocation, 

consult local community 

b. inform the Chief District 

Officer who has to report 

the findings in writing to 

the Department of 

Archaeology within 35 

days, according to the 

Ancient Monuments 

Protection Act, 1956 and 

Rules, 1989. 

c. Use manual labour for 

digging trenches and 

avoid heavy equipment 

6. Demolition Remove all unnecessary 

structures and reinstate 

the area to its original 

condition 

Protection of cultural heritage 

sites 

Involvement of local people 

Removal of temporary facilities 

Reinstall to original condition 

7. Traffic Management Develop a traffic plan to Working schedules and traffic 

minimize traffic flow plans. Information about 

interference from construction schedule to the 


Advance local public 

notification of construction 

activities, schedule, 

routing, and affected 

areas including road 

closures via VDCs. 

Erect signage in Nepali 

and English languages. 

Use of steel plates or 

other temporary across 

trench facilities in key 

areas such as foot trails or 

livestock routes; arrange 

for pedestrian access and 

sidewalks and parking 

areas. 

Arrange for night-time 

local people 

Project site Field observation of Contractor/SE/ 

archaeological and cultural 

sites and number of chance 

finds to proper authorities. 

KVWSMB/KUKL/DSC 

Project site Visual field observation and 

feedback from the locals. 

Project site Visual observation of traffic; 

complaints from travelers 

and locals; existence of 

signage and effectiveness 

of speed control and 

diversion measures. 

Every month Contractor cost 

Contractor/ KUKL/PID/DSC Once after completion 

of construction 


Contractor/DSC Every week Contractor cost 



Activities 





Operation Phase 

construction for activities 

in congested/ heavy daytime 

traffic areas. 

Undertake trench closure 

and facitilate rehabilitation 

as quickly as feasible. 

Discharge of industrial Train workers in OHS 

wastes to WW treatment hazards and provide PPE; Observation 

System 

monitor illegal discharge 

of industrial wastes to the 

system and enforce strict 

regulations in coordination 

with the Ministry of 

Environment. 

Sludge disposal 

Wastewater release 

Overflow flooding 

Dispose sludge at Monitor groundwater and water 

designated areas; quality of nearby streams; 

impervious clay liners or odour. 

geo-fabrics to be used on 

the bottom of the sludge 

bed; implement OHS plan; 

proper (covered) 

transportation systems to 

be provided for septage; 

regular O&M (and lime 

spreading on the drying 

beds; provide 

a buffer zone around the 

sludge drying bed; provide 

proper drainage to avoid 

flooding 

Treat wastewater to meet Quality of treated waste water 

the effluent standards that will be released to River 

before releasing it to 

natural surface sources; 

regular monitoring the 

quality of the treated 

wastewater and that of the 

receiving water. 

Careful design and 

operation of wastewater 

system; provide standby 

generators for 

Standby generators in operating 

conditions with sufficient fuel. 

Nearby Industries 

Project sites 

At the site and 

downstream of waste 

water release 

Visual observation 

KUKL/MOE 

Visual observation (e,g. 

smell, aesthetics); DO, KUKL 

COD, pH of nearby streams 

and wells. 

Influent BOD/COD, pH; 

effluent BOD/COD, pH 

Treatment plants Visual observation 

Once a month 

Once a month 

KUKL Regularly during 

operation 

KUKL Once a month 

KUKL cost 

KUKL cost 

KUKL cost 

KUKL cost 



Activities 





Sewer cleaning 

Sewer line system 

operation 

pumping stations. 

To ensure proper O&M, 

training of operators to 

be provided for regular 

inspection, cleaning and 

maintenance of plant 

and sewers. 

Trainings conducted 

KUKL to ensure 

operation and 

maintenance staff of Trainings provided 

sewerage system are 

fully aware of the 

hazards in running the 

system by training of 

operation and 

maintenance staff in 

hygiene procedures to 

avoid infection from 

wastewater and sludge 

handling and health and 

safety procedures 

against exposure to 

hazardous gases; Medical records of workers 

workers to be inoculated 

against infectious 

diseases and kept under 

medical supervision; 

emergency procedures 

to be developed by 

KUKL; protective 

clothing to sewer Visual observation whether 

cleaning workers. protective clothings are used 

Workers / operators 

likely to be working in 

sewers and confined 

spaces to be provided 

safety equipment / gas 

detectors with 

awareness and safety 

training. Explosive 

gases generated in the 

sewage treatment 

process (e.g. methane / 

Availability of safety equipment 

and protective clothing and 

provision of safety training 

Along sewer cleaning 

points (manholes) 

View training records 

Visual Observation 

Treatment plants Visual observation and 

checks; review of 

complaints and actions 

taken 

Once a year 


KUKL 

Once a month 

KUKL cost 

KUKL Once a month KUKL cost


Activities 





carbon monoxide) to be 

collected and either 

flared or used for power 

generation. Fire 

extinguishers and 

training to be provided. 

Workers who come in 

contact with raw or 

partially treated sewage 

and sludge to be 

provided with protective 

wear (e.g. gum boots, 

gloves and face masks). 

Provision of sufficient 

O&M staff and 

equipment for cleaning; 

system to register public 

complaints (Grievance 

Redress Mechanism) 

and urgent clearance of 

system blockages. 

Health and safety Provide trainings to 

workers on OHS 

O&M Staff availability; and 

existence of Grievance Redress 

Mechanism 

Number of trainings given Plant sites Quizzes and interviews KUKL Once a month KuKL cost 




KVWSMB and KUKL have been established. The Safeguards Unit of the Project should 

report the Environmental Monitoring results of project implementation to KVWSMB and 

KUKL through PID. 

Monthly progress reports on EMP implementation should be submitted to PID, and ADB. 

The Senior Environmental Engineer of the Safeguards Unit should oversee the 

environmental monitoring activities undertaken by DSC. 

PID should be routinely informed on the status of the EMP implementation. 

The DSC Environmental Engineer/Specialist should carry out monitoring of the EMP 

components and parameters as specified in the EMP TOR which should be made 

available to DSC, and produce a monitoring report, which should be included in the 

monthly progress report. 

DSC should prepare a monthly EMP monitoring report and should submit to KVWSMB 

and PID/KUKL, and 

The Construction Contractor is responsible for implementing the approved 

Environmental Mitigation Execution Plan; and prepare a monthly progress report and 

submit it to KVWSMB and PID/KUKL through DSC. 

268 Construction and operation phase monitoring of the mitigating measures will mainly 

consider the following impacts due to: 

269 Construction Phase: Soil erosion, sedimentation and slope stabilization; spoil-tip 

protection and management; stock taking of species of urban vegetation during vegetation 

clearance along pipeline alignments and re-plantation; change in hydrology and morphology 

of streams and rivers; water, air and noise (vibration) pollution; solid waste; land intake and 

compensation; reinstatement of damaged structures and services; crime and community 

stress; health, safety and sanitation of the work force and camps; archaeological and 

cultural sites and chance finds; and traffic management. 

270 Operation Phase: Discharge of industrial wastes to wastewater treatment systems; 

wastewater treatment operations; sludge disposal; quality of drinking water supplies; pipe 

flushing and wastewater release to receiving waters. 

271 Some of the baseline monitoring surveys (to be done by DSC) that are required 

before the construction starts so as to compare them to that during and after the 

construction works are: 

Monitoring of Air Quality and Noise Level of the Project: Monitoring of air quality and 

noise levels (including vibrations) should be conducted before and during the rehabilitation 

and construction of water supply pipes and sewers and documented in the monthly EMP 

progress reports. 

Water Quality Analysis of the Bagmati, Manohara and other rivers at different 

locations: The project construction activities add to the pollution of the rivers. Water quality 

at different locations should be analyzed according to the Nepal Drinking Water Quality 

Standards and Guidelines in order to examine the physical, chemical and biological quality 

of the water on a weekly and monthly basis and should be documented in the monthly EMP 

progress report. 

Monitoring of springs, spouts and other water sources of the Kathmandu Valley: 

Kathmandu Valley has several, water spouts, springs, drinking water supply and wells at 

various places being used daily by the urban people. Some of them have already dried up 

because of the severe encroachments and some of them are still functioning and serving 

the local people as sources of water. During rehabilitation and installation of new pipelines, 

the existing spouts and other water sources may be disturbed. In order to examine the 




continuity of the flow of the spouts and springs of Kathmandu Valley during the dry season, 

they should be monitored and information included in the monthly progress report. 

a. Environmental Procedures and Institutions 

272 The Ministry of Environment (MOE) is in charge of environmental control and 

management for all sector agencies. The Ministry of Physical Planning and Works (MPPW) 

has the overall responsibility for environmental monitoring of all water supply and sewerage 

projects. In case of an EIA, it has to be finally approved by MOE. In case of an Initial 

Environmental Examination (IEE), the final approval lies with MPPW. 

273 There is a provision for 75 Environmental Inspectors (one for each district) in the 

Environmental Protection Act (1997). However, there are at present only 4 Environmental 

Inspectors in the Ministry, who, due to lack of resources and equipment have not been able 

to monitor the adverse impacts of projects on the environment. An organisation and 

management Task Force has been formed to look into the creation of a Department of 

Environment and the report of the Task Force is awaited. After the report is submitted, it will 

have to be endorsed by the Cabinet before it becomes effective. Only then will the 75 

Environmental Inspectors be hired and the Department of Environment established with 

laboratory equipment etc. (Personal Communication, Mr. Tandukar, Chief Administrator, 

MOE, 28 February 2010). 

274 Some clearances are required to be taken before the Project commences: 

In the forest regulations, if the project “will result in clear cutting of national forest” or 

“falls within protected area”. The Forest Act, 1993 Article 68 mentions that in order 

to implement any project with “priority status” and “with no other alternatives than to 

use the forest”, “only in such situation and conditioned that there will not be any 

adverse environmental effect by implementing such schemes”, the Government of 

Nepal may give permission to use some part of forest (organized forest/conserved 

forest/community forest/lease hold forest) to implement such projects. The Ministry 

of Forests and Soil Conservation (2009) also requires that all the costs related to the 

clearing off the forest, its transportation to the approved location and works related 

to environmental mitigation shall be borne by the project itself. It is mandatory to 

plant 25 saplings for every tree cut and maintain/nurture them for 5 years. If the 

proponent cannot nurture the saplings, the proponent will provide the total cost 

involved to the National Parks and Wildlife who shall rear/nurture the saplings for 5 

years. The clearance is sought from the Department of National Parks and Wildlife. 

The new water supply pipeline to the reservoirs in the Nagarjun Park will follow the 

existing track/footpath so as to avoid the cutting of trees. If during the detailed 

design, it is found that tree cutting is unavoidable, then the above procedures will be 

followed, 

The existing 3,600 m 3 Balaju reservoir (Annex 11), 80years old with cracked walls 

and a settled roof) is to be demolished and a new one constructed under Loan 1820 

which lies within the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. Clearances to construct the 

reservoir and the laying of feeder and service water pipes will have to be sought 

from the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation through the 

Warden of the Park. 

The Ancient Monuments Preservation Rules 2046 (1989) mentions: 

”4.1.1 Pursuant to Sub- section (5) of Section 3 of the Act, any person or Association 

willing to install telephone and electricity, to dig the land for drinking water and 

sewerage, to construct and repair the road, to shoot a film, cinema, to celebrate 




festival and fare, to dance or to park vehicles or to place the poster and photograph, 

shall have to submit an application to the Department, for its approval in format as 

prescribed in Schedule- 1 (Annex 12). 

Two areas fall under the UNESCO Heritage sites (Kathmandu Durbar Square, subzone 

A 3.3 and Patan Durbar Square, sub-zone A 8.2) where water distribution 

networks and wastewater improvements are planned (Annex 13). Prior permission 

will have to be taken by PID (as early as possible so that there is no delay of 

construction works) as stated in The Ancient Monuments Preservation Rules 2046 

(1989) Section 4.1.1, as stated above. 

275 Table 24 defines the roles of different organisations and groups in environmental 

monitoring: 

Table 24: Institutional/organizational responsibilities in environmental monitoring 

SNo. Organization Roles and Responsibilities 

1 

Ministry of 

Environment 

2 Donor 

Agencies 

Pre-construction phase Construction phase Operation phase 

review and approve 

EIA reports and 

approve all mitigation 

measures. 

review monthly 

monitoring reports. 

review IEE Reports, 

review final project 

design and tender 

documents, 

instruct IEE 

implementation from the 

donor‟s point of view at 

the construction stages, 

review environmental 

monitoring report to: (i) 

examine whether all 

mitigation measures are 

implemented (ii) 

effectiveness of these 

measures (iii) 

compliance condition 

and environmental 

covenants and (iv) 

conduct independent 

auditing. 

review monitoring report 

to examine: (i) whether or 

not all recommended 

measures have been 

implemented, (ii) 

effectiveness of these 

measures, (iii) 

implementation of 

compliances, and (iv) 

employment of an 

independent third party 

monitoring consultant 

once a year. 

project 

auditing after 

two years of 

operation. 


SNo. Organization 



Roles and Responsibilities 

3 Ministry of 

Physical 

Planning and 

Works (MPPW) 

4 Kathmandu 

Valley Water 

Supply 

Management 

Board 

(KVWSMB)/ 

Kathmandu 

Upatyaka 

Khanepani 

Limited (KUKL) 

and Projection 

Implementation 

Directorate 

(PID) 

5 Design and 

Supervision 

Consultant 

(DSC) 


review IEE document 

and submit to donors; 

approve IEE report, 

review design and 

tender documents in 

order to examine 

whether or not 

mitigation prescriptions 

are included, and 

instruct KUKL. 

appoint PID, 

review final design 

and tender documents 

and forward them to 

MPPW, 

instruct PMU to 

update RAP and get it 

approved, 

establish „Safeguards 

Unit/Utility Management 

Coordination Subcommittee 

/appoint 

Design and Supervision 

Consultant (DSC) 

obtain all necessary 

permissions and 

permits, notify, carryout 

land acquisition, and 

select contractor, 

award and review 

EMEP document 

prepared by the 

contractor and approve 

it. 

incorporate all 

provisions of EMP in the 

final design, 

incorporate all 

mitigation measures in 

the tender documents, 

assist in site 

inspection during land 

intake, and 

baseline monitoring of 

air and water quality, 

noise level and 

vibrations and overall 

environmental status of 

the project area. 

review EMP Report (i) to 

ensure EMP 

implementation (ii) 

effectiveness of the 

implementation measures 

(iii) compliance, and (iv) 

monitoring of construction 

twice a year. 

conduct frontline 

monitoring on (i) mitigation 

implementation (ii) 

effectiveness (iii) 

enhancement programs 

(iv) appoint monitoring 

team (v) ensure public 

participation (vi) RAP 

implementation (vii) 

environmental compliance 

and (viii) prepare quality 

monitoring report to submit 

to MPPW/MOE. 

approval of construction 

works, 

monitoring of the 

contractor‟s performance 

on EMP implementation/ 

mitigation 

effectiveness/impact 

monitoring, 

labour employment as 

per regulations, 

instruct contractor for 

corrective actions, 

impose fine/or null 

payment in case of noncompliance, 

and 

prepare monthly 

monitoring 

report/participate in 

inspection. 

periodic monitoring of air 

review biannual 

monitoring 

reports, and 

annual site 

inspection. 

ensure 

smooth 

operation of 

water supply 

and sewerage 

systems 






6 Construction 

Contractor 

7 Beneficiary 

Community 


quality, water quality and 

noise and vibration levels 

at the project area, 

monitoring of impacts on 

physical, biological and 

socio-economic 

components of the 

environment in the project 

area, 

conducting trainings and 

Community Awareness 

and periodic meetings with 

stakeholders, and 

submit monthly and 

biannual progress reports, 

including monitoring 

results and mitigation 

activities. 

prepare EMEP for 

contracts, 

select temporary land 

use sites, and 

assist the supervising 

engineer in joint site 

inspection of 

KVWSMB/KUKL for 

approval. 

get permission to start 

work from DSC, 

ensure that all 

prescriptions of EMP are 

included in the work 

activities, 

ensure employment 

opportunities for the locals 

and maintain records of 

employment, and submit 

to the Supervising 

Engineer, 

carry out corrective 

measures as 

recommended by DSC, 

participate in monitoring 

and inspection, 

prepare an operational 

manual to submit to DSC, 

provide training to the 

monitoring personnel, and 

submit monthly reports 

on EMP compliance to 

DSC. 

ensure that hazard 

dumping of all wastes is 

controlled. 

ensure public 

participation during project 

construction and 

operation. 

assist other stakeholders 

in environmental 

management and related 

activities. 

implement 

activities to 

support 

maintenance of 

the water and 

wastewater 

systems. 






9 Ministry of 

Health and 

Population 

(MOHP) 


b. Mechanisms for Feedback and Adjustment 

keep records 

on water and 

hygiene related 

diseases. 

water quality 

surveillance. 

276 The feedback mechanism of the reporting should be conducted as under the tiered 

monitoring system as described in Figure 6 (EMP, 2009, PMU/KUKL). Depending upon the 

results of monitoring, necessary adjustments will be made to the overall implementation of 

the EMP. 

277 The effectiveness of mitigation measures and monitoring plans will be evaluated 

through a feedback reporting system. Adjustments in the EMP will be made if necessary. If 

EMP modification is requested by the contractors and/or KUKL, the proposals will be 

reviewed in detail. If the modifications are approved in principle, specific modifications will 

be submitted by the contractors to DSC for further review and revisions made if necessary. 

278 The responsible institutions/individuals/stakeholders etc. will be responsible with the 

help of qualified staff and monitoring equipment for monitoring the performance of the 

mitigation measures and the environmental impacts of the Project. Complaints will be 

immediately looked into through the grievance redress mechanism mentioned earlier. The 

data generated from the project components by the Environmental Specialist of DSC will 

help in developing environmental and socio-economic indicators to be used in the 

measurement of the project impacts which will be shared with KUKL and concerned bodies 

monthly. 

c. Reporting Procedures 

279 The reporting system should be based on site supervision to see whether mitigation 

measures are carried out according to the Monitoring Plan. The Construction Contractor 

should develop an Environmental Mitigation Execution Plan (EMEP) based on the EMP. 

The EMEP should be approved by PID/KUKL and DSC. DSC is responsible for checking 

the monthly progress reports submitted by the Contractor and field verified whether or not 

the Contractor has complied with the approved conditions as stated in the EMEP. 

280 DSC should then prepare a environmental monitoring report based on the monthly 

report submitted by the Contractor and submit to PID/KUKL for review. PID/KUKL should 

forward the monitoring report to DSC for review by its Environmental Specialist. The report 

is developed based on field inspection, investigation, consultation and information given in 

the monitoring report. 10 copies of the reports should be submitted to PID/KUKL every 

month, which should be distributed to the responsible agencies for review. The 

Environmental Specialist of DSC should then review the comments and suggestions from 

the various authorities and act accordingly. 

281 Monthly progress reports, including bi-annual and annual reports on the 

implementation of EMP should be produced on a regular basis. The monthly progress report 

should contain information on the works carried out and the results of all monitoring and 

investigation works performed during that particular month. The report should also include 

cases of compliance and non-compliance and the corresponding further mitigation 




measures to be adopted to correct the non-compliances and also include the outcome of 

the monitoring, important issues identified and the measures to be undertaken to ameliorate 

them. 

d. Procurement plan and cost estimates 

282 Costs of all mitigation measures during the construction phase will be included in the 

tender and contract documents and will be borne by the contractors. 

283 The Safeguards Unit to be established will consist of an Environment Specialist, a 

Social Specialist and a Legal Specialist. The Environment Specialist will head the 

Safeguards Unit. The TORs of the Specialists are attached in Annex 14. 

284 Costs for the operation phase trainings of KUKL staff will be borne by the Project as 

a whole. The training requirements and costs will be determined by the CBP Team 

(Capacity Building and Private Public Partnership Support Team) which will be implemented 

before construction starts in 2012. The training costs will be included in the contract of the 

contractors. 

285 A domestic Community Awareness and Participation Consultant (CAPC) firm will be 

hired to facilitate community awareness and participation programs over the 5 year loan 

period. The cost for the public awareness specialist, support team, and IEC (Information, 

Education and Communication) materials has been estimated as $600,000. 

286 An independent Third Party Monitoring environmental consultant will be hired once a 

year for the duration of the Project as part of the Benefit Monitoring and Evaluation 

Consultant package to monitor whether the EMP of the Project has been effectively 

implemented. The cost for the environmental monitoring has been estimated at $10,000. 

287 All the costs related to cutting of trees (if there are any), their transportation to a 

approved location and works related to environmental mitigation shall be borne by the 

project itself. The new water supply pipeline to the reservoirs at Balaju WTP in the 

Nagarjun National Park will follow the existing track/footpath so as to avoid the cutting of 

trees. If during the detailed design, it is found that tree cutting is unavoidable, it is 

mandatory to plant 25 saplings for every tree cut and maintain them for 5 years. The cost 

for the cutting and nurturing of 1 tree for 5 years has been estimated as $600. 

288 A lumpsum amount of $10,000 has been allocated if an Archaeological Impact 

Assessment has to be conducted. 

289 The annual and total environmental cost for 5 years is given in Table 25. 

Table 25: Annual Environmental Costs 

No. Item Cost per 

year (US$) 

Total Cost 

(US$) 

1 Cost of public awareness campaign and IEC 120,000 600,000 

2 Monitoring EMP of project by a third party environmental consultant 2,000 10,000 

3 Conducting an Archaeological Impact Assessment (if required) Lumpsum 10,000 

4 Safeguards Unit 

a. Environmental Specialist @$ 1,071 per month 12,852 64,260 

b. Social Safeguard Specialist @ $ 930 per month 11,160 55,800 

c. Legal Specialist @ $ 930 per month 11,160 55,800 

Total Cost 157,172 795,860 


e. Work Plan 



290 The EMP implementation schedule is given in Figure 7 for a period of 5 years. Most 

of the activities have been scheduled on a continuous basis. 

291 Under the General Manager of KUKL, there is a Technical Division (headed by a 

Deputy Technical Manager). Under the Technical Division, there are 10 Branch Offices in 

the Valley headed by a Deputy Manager each. Before operation, KUKL/PID/DSC, with the 

help of the Safeguards Unit and the Technical Division of KUKL will develop detailed work 

plans for implementing mitigation measures and monitoring plans based on the EMP. These 

plans will be incorporated into the project contracts which will then be submitted to the 

relevant Branch Offices to help in supervising the works. 

292 Before construction, KUKL/PID will develop detailed responsibilities and 

requirements for contractors and will provide detailed cost estimates of mitigation measures 

and environmental monitoring in the construction contracts. KUKL/PID will also detail the 

responsibilities of their environmental management offices and prepare their work 

schedules. 

293 Before operation, KUKL/PID will develop detailed work plans for environmental 

management and monitoring during operation based on the EMP. These work plans will be 

submitted to the concerned persons to help them supervise implementation. 




Figure 6: Monitoring system for Loan 1820-NEP Subproject-2: Kathmandu Valley 

Water Supply and Sanitation Project (KVWSSP) 

Policy at 

Strategic Level 

KVWSSP 

Implementation 

Level 

Design and 

Supervision 

of 

Construction 

Construction 

contractors 

Source: EMP 2009, PMU/KUKL (modified) 

1. Kathmandu Valley Water Supply 

Management Board and KUKL 

2. Joint Review Mission of donor 

agencies 

3. Project Implementation Directorate 

(PID) 

4. Safeguards Unit/(Social and 

Environmental Monitoring) Domestic 

Panel of Experts, if required by ADB 

5. Environmental Specialist of DSC to 

implement, monitor construction 

activities and prepare the EMP 

monitoring report according to the EMP 

TOR 

6. Contractor‟s Environmental Engineer to 

fill out the form provided by DSC daily 

and weekly and prepare the 

environmental compliance report 


Figure 7: EMP implementation schedule 






I. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 

294 Overall, the impacts of the Project will be very positive, befitting the environment and 

the people. Some negative impacts are anticipated during implementation but in specific 

areas and for short duration (dust, noise, traffic problems, access to buildings etc.). It is 

expected that the adverse environmental impacts of the planned water supply and 

sewerage project for the Kathmandu Valley will in general not be significant and can be 

easily and reasonably cheaply mitigated and prevented through mitigation measures and 

regular monitoring during the design, construction and operation phases. 

295 If the Project is properly implemented and environmental issues are duly considered, 

there will be a significant improvement in the health of the environment and people due to 

the water supply and wastewater improvements due to the proposed Project and thereby an 

increase of the quality of life. The quality of the river waters in the Valley will also improve, 

when the wastewater is treated. 




Literature Reviewed 

ADB (2009), Safeguards Policy Statement, Asian Development Bank, Manila 

ADB, ICIMOD (2006), Environment Assessment of Nepal. Emerging Issue and Challenges. 

Ancient Monuments Preservation Rules 2046 (1989), Department of Archaeology, GON 

Aviyaan Consulting (P) Ltd, (2008), Mapping of Slums, Squatters and Standposts in 


Binnie and Partners (1973), Master Plan for the Water Supply and Sewerage of Greater 

Kathmandu and Bhaktapur, WHO, UNDP Project, Nepal 

CBS (2001), Statistical Year Book of Nepal 2001, Central Bureau of Statistics 

Climatological Records of Nepal 1991-1994, Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, 

Kathmandu, Nepal, May 1997 

CEMAT (2000), Report on Surface Water Quality Monitoring Works of Kathmandu Valley, 

Urban Water Supply Reforms in the Kathmandu Valley Project 

Environmental Protection Act 1997 and Environmental Protection Rules 1997 (and 

amendment 20 Aug 2007), Ministry of Environment. 

Dixit, Ajay and Upadhya, Madhukar, Jan 2005, Augmenting groundwater in Kathmandu 

Valley: Challenges and possibilities, Nepal Water Conservation Foundation 

DWIDP/SILT/ERMC/TECHDA (2005), Preparation of Water-Induced Hazard Maps of 

Bagmati River Basin 

EMP, April 2009, PMU/KUKL 

ENPHO (2009), Test of Raw Water at KUKL Sources within the Kathmandu Valley, Final 

Report, ENPHO, May 2009 

Forest Act, 1993, GON 

Gautam, C (2006), Action Plan for Air Quality Management in Kathmandu Valley, MOEST 

HFA (1991), Kathmandu Valley Urban Development Plans and Programmes, Government 

of Nepal, Department of Housing and Urban Development, Halcrow Fox and Associates 

ICIMOD (2007), Nepal Biodiversity Resource Book 

(http://www.gorkhapatra.org.np/rising.detail.php?article_id=28619&cat_id=27). 

http://guthi.net 

http://www.nepalnews.com.np/contents/englishweekly/sundaypost/2003/mar/mar16/2ndpage.htm) 

Hunter Water Corporation (2006), Potential OHS Impacts and Mitigation Measures During 

Pipe Laying 

ICIMOD, MOEST, UNEP (2007), Kathmandu Valley Environmental Outlook 

ITECO (2003), Feasibility Study and Detailed Engineering Design to Update Master Plan for 

Bagmati Area Sewerage Project 




JICA (1990), Groundwater Management Project in the Kathmandu Valley, Final Report 

MOE (2006), A Guide to Streamlining of Environmental Impact Assessment Approval 

Process, Regulating and Monitoring Capacity Building for Environmental Impact 

Assessment (EIA) of Hydropower Project in Nepal. 

KUKL Annual Report 2008 

MOEST (1997), Environment Protection Act and Rules 1997 

MOEST (2005), Ambient Air Quality of Kathmandu Valley 2003-2004 

Nepal Environmental Policy and Action Plan 1993 

National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act, 1973 (2029 B.S.), GON 

National Trust for Nature Conservation Act 1982 (2039 B.S) 

Nepal National Water Quality Standard and National Water Supply Standard Guidelines 

(2006). (in Nepali language) 

NORPLAN (2002), The Adit Access Roads Contract MDS/AAR001, MWSDB, Vol. 2 

NWSC (2001), Annual Report 2001, Nepal Water Supply Corporation 

Pradhan, B., Gruendlinger, R., Fuerhapper, I, Pradhan, P., Pradhanang, S., (2005), 

Knowledge of Water Quality and Water-borne Diseases in Kathmandu Valley. In Munawar, 

M (ed.), Aquatic Ecosystem Health and Management; Special Issue of the Great Himalayas: 

Ecology, Health and Management, 8(3): 277-284 

Shah J., Nagpal, T (eds.) (1997), Urban Air Quality Management Strategies in Asia: 

Kathmandu Valley Report, World Bank Technical Paper No. 378 

Shrestha, Rajman, 2006, Urbanization and changes in cropping pattern in Kathmandu 

Valley, Journal of Science and Technology, Vo. 7 

Solid Waste Management National Policy, 1996 

US EPA, 1974, Information on levels of environmental noise requisite to protect public 

health and welafare with an adequate margin of safety, Publication No. 550/9-74-004, 

Washington DC, March 1974 

Vibration regulation law 64 of 1976, Japan (www.env.goijp/en/laws/air/vibration/index.html 

Working policy on construction and operation of development projects in protected areas 

(2065 B.S), Ministry of Forests and Soil Conservation, GON 

www.dnpwc.gov.np (Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation, Nepal) 

www.osha.gov/pls/oshaweb/owadisp.show_document?p_table=STANDARD&p_id=10625 




Rapid Environmental Assessment (REA) Checklist 

Instructions: 

Annex 1: Rapid Environmental Assessment (REA) 

This checklist is to be prepared to support the environmental classification of a project. It is to 

be attached to the environmental categorization form that is to be prepared and submitted to 

the Chief Compliance Officer of the Regional and Sustainable Development Department. 

This checklist is to be completed with the assistance of an Environment Specialist in a 

Regional Department. 

This checklist focuses on environmental issues and concerns. To ensure that social dimensions 

are adequately considered, refer also to ADB checklists and handbooks on (i) involuntary 

resettlement, (ii) indigenous peoples planning, (iii) poverty reduction, (iv) participation, and (v) 

gender and development. 

Answer the questions assuming the “without mitigation” case. The purpose is to identify 

potential impacts. Use the “remarks” section to discuss any anticipated mitigation measures. 

Country/Project Title: 

Sector Division: 

SCREENING QUESTIONS Yes No REMARKS 

A. PROJECT SITING 

IS THE PROJECT AREA… 

Densely populated? In many areas of the Kathmandu Valley, the average 

urban density exceeds 40,000 to 45,000 persons per 

km 2 and at the core of Kathmandu the density exceeds 

80,000 per km 2 . Although Kathmandu Valley only 

covers 0.43% of the total area of Nepal, it has about 

7% of the total population. 

Heavy with development activities? 

Mostly in established residential areas. 

Adjacent to or within any environmentally 

sensitive areas? 

Cultural heritage site 

Protected Area 

Wetland 

Mangrove 

Estuarine 

Buffer zone of protected area 

Special area for protecting biodiversity 

Bay 


 

The Kathmandu Valley has a number of historic 

cities. Sensitive cultural sites may be located 

adjacent to the roadway where works will take 

place. 

There are no environmentally sensitive areas 

within the project area. The project will occur 

primarily within the Kathmandu Valley urban 

boundaries. 

 

 

 

 

 

WATER SUPPLY 

NEP: Kathmandu Valley Water Supply and Wastewater System 

Improvement 

SAUD




B. POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS 

Will the Project cause… 

pollution of raw water supply from upstream 

wastewater discharge from communities, 

industries, agriculture, and soil erosion runoff? 

 

impairment of historical/cultural 

monuments/areas and loss/damage to these 

sites? 

hazard of land subsidence caused by excessive 

ground water pumping? 

social conflicts arising from displacement of 

communities ? 

conflicts in abstraction of raw water for water supply 

with other beneficial water uses for surface and ground 

waters? 

unsatisfactory raw water supply (e.g. excessive 

pathogens or mineral constituents)? 

delivery of unsafe water to distribution system? 

The intakes are located in isolated intact 

watersheds. Additional water treatment is 

included under the ongoing ADB Melamchi 

Project (Loan 1820). The distributed water is to 

comply with the National Drinking Water Quality 

Standards as per the approved EMP for the 

Project. 

The project will ensure the following: (i) 

consultations with any government agency or 

NGOs (including UNESCO) with responsibility 

(and jurisdiction) over cultural/archaeological 

sites, (ii) permissions received from the same, 

(iii) construction guidelines in EMP; (iv) chance 

finds requirements. Potential adverse impacts 

during construction will be addressed through 

EMPs. All mitigation requirements will be 

included in the contract documents. Any 

regulations during construction will be included 

and monitored through the EMP. 

To avoid 

exploitation, 

ground subsidence and over 

KVWSMB is undertaking a 

Groundwater Management and Regulation 

 

Policy Preparation study (ADB SDP Loan 2059) 

that will establish processes to regulate and 

control or prohibit the extraction and use of 

groundwater within the Kathmandu Valley. The 

ADB Melamchi Project (Loan 1820) will replace / 

install flow & water depth instrumentation on all 

ground water tubewells for extraction monitoring. 

No displacements required. Lands for service 

reservoirs were previously acquired under the 

ongoing ADB Melamchi Project (Loan 1820) and 

monitored through implementation of approved 

RP. Temporary impacts to businesses may occur 

during construction and are to be addressed 

through specific measures, including 

compensation, in the EMP. Any IR impacts 

identified will be addressed through the 

 

resettlement planning process. 

Conflicts in abstraction addressed through the 

ongoing ADB Melamchi Project (Loan 1820) RP. 

The approved RP provides allowances for water 

mill and irrigation users affected by the project, 

as well as the Social Uplift Program (SUP) 

targeted at affected communities. The ongoing 

Project is closely monitored by ADB and any 

conflicts are managed through corrective actions 

in coordination with the Government. 

Addressed through the ongoing ADB Melamchi 

Project (Loan 1820). Any distributed water to 

comply with the National Drinking Water Quality 

Standards as per the approved EMP for the 

Project. 

Water will be treated under the ongoing ADB 

Melamchi Project (Loan 1820) which will 

construct WTPs and water quality improvement 

works including supply and replacement of 

laboratory equipment. 





inadequate protection of intake works or wells, 

leading to pollution of water supply? 

The ongoing Melamchi Project (Loan 1820) 

includes fencing and other protection works of 

water intakes to prevent pollution of water 

supply. 

over pumping of ground water, leading to 

salinization and ground subsidence? 

Salination due to salt bearing strata is not a 

problem in the Kathmandu Valley. To avoid 

ground subsidence and over exploitation, 

KVWSMB is undertaking a Groundwater 

excessive algal growth in storage reservoir? 

Management and Regulation Policy Preparation 

study (ADB SDP Loan 2059) that will establish 

processes to regulate and control or prohibit the 

extraction and use of groundwater within the 

Kathmandu Valley. The ADB Melamchi Project 

(Loan 1820) will replace / install flow & water 

depth instrumentation on all ground water tubewells 

for extraction monitoring. 

Storage reservoirs are only for treated water. 

The water is chlorinated and the reservoirs 

covered to prevent algal growth 

increase in production of sewage beyond 

capabilities of community facilities? 

The project will improve the existing wastewater 

collection and treatment systems by 

rehabilitating existing treatment plants and 

expanding the sewerage network, as well as 

providing a septage treatment facility. All 

inadequate disposal of sludge from water 

treatment plants? 

 

wastewater to meet Government standards for 

treatment. 

Disposal of sludge to be done at designated sites 

as per the approved EMP of the ongoing ADB 

Melamchi Project (Loan 1820). 

inadequate buffer zone around pumping and 

treatment plants to alleviate noise and other 

Noise impacts to be monitored as per the 

approved EMP of ongoing ADB Melamchi 

possible nuisances and protect facilities? 

Project(Loan 1820). 

impairments associated with transmission lines 

and access roads? 

Good construction practices 

transmission line impairments 

to mitigate 


specified in the EMP. A section-wise approach 

will also limit impairments to traffic and 

health hazards arising from inadequate design of 

facilities for receiving, storing, and handling of 

chlorine and other hazardous chemicals. 

 

businesses during construction. 

Handling of hazardous materials associated with 

treatment facilities addressed in the approved 

EMP of ongoing ADB Melamchi Project (Loan 

1820). 

health and safety hazards to workers from the 

management of chlorine used for disinfection 

and other contaminants? 

 

dislocation or involuntary resettlement of people 

social conflicts between construction workers 

from other areas and community workers? 

noise and dust from construction activities? 

increased road traffic due to interference of 

construction activities? 

continuing soil erosion/silt runoff from 

construction operations? 

No IR impacts envisioned. Lands for service 

reservoirs were previously acquired under the 

ongoing ADB Melamchi Project (Loan 1820) and 

monitored through implementation of the 

approved RP. Temporary impacts to businesses 

may occur during construction and are to be 

addressed through specific measures, including 

compensation, in the EMP. Any IR impacts 

identified will be addressed through the 

 

resettlement planning process. 

The contractor will be encouraged to hire local 

workers from the local labor force. 

Good construction practices to mitigate noise 

and dust and to be specified in the EMP. 

Traffic management plan to form part of the 

EMP. 

Good construction practices to mitigate soil 

erosion and silt runoff and to be specified in the 

EMP. 





delivery of unsafe water due to poor O&M 

treatment processes (especially mud 

Any distributed water to comply with the National 

Drinking Water Quality Standards and addressed 

accumulations in filters) and inadequate 

chlorination due to lack of adequate monitoring 

of chlorine residuals in distribution systems? 

in the approved EMP of the ongoing ADB 

Melamchi Project (Loan 1820). 

delivery of water to distribution system, which is 

corrosive due to inadequate attention to feeding 

of corrective chemicals? 

 

accidental leakage of chlorine gas? 

excessive abstraction of water affecting 

downstream water users? 

competing uses of water? 

increased sewage flow due to increased water 

supply 

increased volume of sullage (wastewater from 

cooking and washing) and sludge from wastewater 

treatment plant 

The ongoing MWSP subproject 1 design 

includes provision of gas detectors, alarms, 

automatic water sprinklers, PPE, showers for 

staff and training in case of accidental leakage of 

chlorine gas. Under MWSP subproject 2 

Calcium hypochlorite (Bleaching powder) is used 

for disinfection of water. 


 

 

Conflicts in abstraction addressed through the 

ongoing ADB Melamchi Project (Loan 1820) RP 

Addressed in ongoing Loan 1820. The approved 

RP for Loan 1820 provides allowances for water 

mills and irrigation users affected by the project, 

as well as the Social Uplift Program (SUP) 

targeted at affected communities. The ongoing 

Project is closely monitored by ADB and any 

conflicts are managed through corrective actions 

in discussion with the Government. 

The project will improve the existing wastewater 

collection and treatment systems to meet 

increased sewage flows by rehabilitating existing 

 

treatment plants and expanding the sewerage 

network, as well as providing septage treatment 

facility. All wastewater effluents to meet 

Government treatment standards. Sludge 

disposal to be addressed in EMP.



Rapid Environmental Assessment (REA) Checklist 

Instructions: 

This checklist is to be prepared to support the environmental classification of a project. It is to 

be attached to the environmental categorization form that is to be prepared and submitted to 

the Chief Compliance Officer of the Regional and Sustainable Development Department. 

This checklist is to be completed with the assistance of an Environment Specialist in a 

Regional Department. 

This checklist focuses on environmental issues and concerns. To ensure that social 

dimensions are adequately considered, refer also to ADB checklists and handbooks on (i) 

involuntary resettlement, (ii) indigenous peoples planning, (iii) poverty reduction, (iv) 

participation, and (v) gender and development. 

Answer the questions assuming the “without mitigation” case. The purpose is to identify 

potential impacts. Use the “remarks” section to discuss any anticipated mitigation measures. 

Country/Project Title: 

Sector Division: 

A. PROJECT SITING 

Is the project area 


Densely populated? √ Rehabilitation of sewerage network will be 

in urban areas. Extension of interceptors 

will be in non-populated areas. 

Heavy with development activities? √ In established residential areas 

Adjacent to or within any environmentally sensitive areas? √ None in project area 

Cultural heritage site √ Precautions to be indicated in the EMP 

Protected area √ 

Wetland √ 

Mangrove √ 

Estuarine √ 

Buffer zone of protected area √ 

Special area for protecting biodiversity √ 

Wastewater, page 2 

Bay 

√ 

B. POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS 

Will the project cause… 

impairment of historical/cultural monuments/areas and 

loss/damage to these sites? 

WASTEWATER 

IMPROVEMENTS 

Kathmandu Valley Water Supply and Wastewater System Improvement 

TA-4893-NEP 

SAUD 

√ Precautions to be indicated in the EMP 





interference with other utilities and blocking of access to 

buildings; nuisance to neighboring areas due to noise, 

smell, and influx of insects, rodents, etc.? 


dislocation or involuntary resettlement of people √ Only agricultural land to be acquired. 

impairment of downstream water quality due to 

inadequate sewage treatment or release of untreated 

sewage? 

overflows and flooding of neighboring properties with raw 

sewage? 

environmental pollution due to inadequate sludge disposal or 

industrial waste discharges illegally disposed in sewers? 

√ Wastewater treatment included in Project. 

Will need to be expanded in future. 


√ Sludge treatment and disposal to be 

included in design of project 

noise and vibration due to blasting and other civil works? √ Precautions to be indicated in the EMP 

discharge of hazardous materials into sewers, resulting 

in damage to sewer system and danger to workers? 

inadequate buffer zone around pumping and treatment 

plants to alleviate noise and other possible nuisances, 

and protect facilities? 

social conflicts between construction workers from other 

areas and community workers? 

road blocking and temporary flooding due to land 

excavation during the rainy season? 

√ Appropriate regulations to be enforced. 

√ Adequate alleviation measures to be 

included in project designs. 

√ Contracts to include social clauses 

√ Precautions to be indicated in the EMP. 

Excavation during monsoon to be limited. 

noise and dust from construction activities? √ Precautions to be indicated in the EMP 

traffic disturbances due to construction material transport 

and wastes? 

√ Traffic management and precautions to be 

in EMP 

temporary silt runoff due to construction? √ Precautions to be indicated in the EMP 

hazards to public health due to overflow flooding, and 

groundwater pollution due to failure of sewerage system? 

deterioration of water quality due to inadequate sludge 

disposal or direct discharge of untreated sewage water? 

contamination of surface and ground waters due to 

sludge disposal on land? 

health and safety hazards to workers from toxic gases 

and hazardous materials which maybe contained in 

sewage flow and exposure to pathogens in sewage and 

sludge? 

√ Project design to include stand-by 

generators for pumping stations 

√ Precautions to be taken as part of project 

design 

√ Appropriate regulations to be enforced. 





Annex 2: National Drinking Water Quality Standards (2062 B.S.) 

Type Parameter Unit 

Maximum 

Concentration 

Limits 

Turbidity NTU 5 (10) 

Physical 

Chemical 

Micro 

Biological 

pH - 6.5-8.5* 

Color TCU 5 (15) 

Taste & Odor - 

Total Dissolved 

Solids 

Mg/L 1000 

Electrical Conductivity μs/cm 1500 

Iron Mg/L 0.3 (3) 

Manganese Mg/L 0.2 

Arsenic Mg/L 0.05 

Cadmium Mg/L 0.003 

Chromium Mg/L 0.05 

Cyanide Mg/L 0.07 

Should not be 

objectionable 

Fluoride Mg/L 0.5 - 1.5 * 

Lead Mg/L 0.01 

Ammonia Mg/L 1.5 

Chloride Mg/L 250 

Sulphate Mg/L 250 

Nitrate Mg/L 50 

Copper Mg/L 1 

Calcium Mg/L 200 

Zinc 3 

Mercury 0.001 

Aluminum 0.2 

Residual Chlorine Mg/L 0.1 - 0.2 * 

E. coli MPN/100 ml 0 

Total Coliform MPN/100 ml 0 (95 % in Sample) 

* These values suggest minimum & maximum limit. 

( ) The value inside bracket is valid if there is no alternative. 

Remarks 

Only for 

system using 

chlorine. 




Annex 3: Tolerance limits for wastewater to be discharged into inland surface waters 

from combined wastewater treatment plant (generic standards) 

Characteristics Tolerance Limit 

Total Suspended solids, mg/L, Max 50 

Particle size of total suspended Shall pass 850-micron 

particles 

Sieve. 

pH 5.5 to 9.0 

Shall not exceed 40 degree 

C in any section of the 

stream within 15 meters 

down-stream from the 

Temperature 

effluent outlet. 

Biochemical oxygen demand 

(BOD) for 5 days at 20 degree C, 

mg/L, Max 50 

Oils and grease, mg/L, Max 10 

Phenolic compounds, mg/L, Max 1 

Cyanides (as CN), mg/L, Max 0.2 

Sulphides (as S), mg/L, Max 2 

Radioactive materials: 

a. Alpha emitters, c/ml, Max 7-Oct 

b. Beta emitters, c/ml, Max 8-Oct 

Insecticides Absent 

Total residual chlorine, mg/L 1 

Fluorides (as F), mg/L, Max 2 

Arsenic (as As), mg/L, Max 0.2 

Cadmium (as, Cd), mg/L, Max 2 

Hexavalent chromium (as Cr), 

mg/L, Max 0.1 

Copper (as Cu), mg/L, Max 3 

Lead (as Pb), mg/L, Max 0.1 

Mercury (as Hg), mg/L, Max 0.01 

Nickel (as Ni), mg/L, Max 3 

Selenium (as Se), mg/L, Max 0.05 

Zinc (as Zn), mg/L, Max 5 

Ammonical nitrogen, mg/L, Max 50 

Chemical Oxygen Demand, mg/L, 

Max 250 

Silver, mg/L, Max 0.1 


Acts 



Annex 4: Environment Related Acts and Regulations in Nepal 

1) Ancient Monuments Protection Act, 1956 

2) Civil Aviation Act, 1958 

3) Aquatic Animals Protection Act, 1960 

4) Plant Protection Act, 1964 

5) National Parks & Wild Life Conservation Act, 1987 

6) Public Road Act, 1974 

7) Trust Corporation Act, 1976 

8) Tourism Act, 1978 

9) King Mahendra Nature Conservation Trust Act, 1982 

10) Soil & Watershed Conservation Act, 1982 

11) Nepal Petroleum Act, 1983 

12) Nepal Electricity Authority Act, 1984 

13) Mines & Mineral Act, 1985 

14) Pashupati Area Development Trust Act, 1987 

15) Solid Waste (Management & Resource Mobilization) Act, 1987 

16) Town Development Act, 1988 

17) Kathmandu Valley Development Authority Act, 1988 

18) Nepal Water Supply Corporation Act, 1989 

19) The Constitution of the Kingdom of Nepal, 1990 

20) Pesticides Act, 1991 

21) Village Development Committee Act, 1991 

22) District Development Committee Act, 1991 

23) Municipality Act, 1991 

24) Water Resources Act, 1992 

25) Forest Act, 1992 

26) Electricity Act, 1992 

27) Motor Vehicle & Transportation Management Act, 1992 

28) Labour Act, 1992 

29) Industrial Enterprises Act, 1992 

30) Nepal Tourism Board Act, 1996 

31) Environment Protection Act, 1996 

Rules 

1) National Parks & Wild Life Conservation Rules, 1973 

2) Plant Protection Rules, 1974 

3) Wild Life Reserve Rules, 1977 

4) Himalayan National Park Rules, 1979 

5) Mountaineering Rules, 1979 

6) King Mahendra Nature Conservation Trust Rules, 1984 

7) Petroleum Rules, 1984 

8) Khaptad National Park Rules, 1987 

9) Ancient Monuments Protection Rules, 1989 

10) Solid Waste (Management & Resource Mobilization) Rules, 1989 

11) Water Resources Rules, 1993 

12) Pesticides Rules, 1993 

13) Labour Rules, 1993 

14) Electricity Rules, 1993 

15) Forest Rules, 1994 

16) Buffer Zone Management Rules, 1995 

17) Royal Bardiya National Park Rules, 1996 

18) Conservation Area Management Rules, 1996 

19) Vehicle & Transportation Management Rules, 1997 

20) Environment Protection Rules, 1997 




Annex 5: Schematic Plans for Kodku, Sallaghari and Dhobighat WWTPs 


Appendix 9 - IEEPage 119 


Project Feasibility Study






Annex 6: National Ambient Air Quality Standards for Nepal 

Parameters Units Averaging 

Time 

TSP (Total 

Suspended 

Particulates) μg/m 3 

PM10 

Sulphur 

Dioxide 

Nitrogen 

Dioxide 

Carbon 

Monoxide 

Lead 

Benzene 

μg/m 3 

μg/m 3 

μg/m 3 

μg/m 3 

μg/m 3 

μg/m 3 

Concentration 

in Ambient 

Air, maximum 

Annual - 

Test Methods 

24-hours* 230 High Volume Sampling 

Annual - 

24-hours* 120 Low Volume Sampling 

Diffusive sampling based on 

Annual 50 weekly averages 

To be determined before 

24-hours** 70 2005. 




24-hours** 80 2005. 


8 hours** 10,000 2005. 

15 minute 100,000 Indicative samplers *** 

Atomic Absorption 

Spectrometry, analysis of 

Annual 0.5 PM10 samples**** 

24-hours - 



24-hours - 

*Note: 24 hourly values shall be met 95% of the time in a year. 18 days per 

calendar year the standard may be exceeded but not on two consecutive days 

**Note: 24 hourly standards for NO2 and SO2 and 8 hours standard for CO are not 

to be controlled before MOPE has recommended appropriate test methodologies. 

This will be done before 2005 

***Note: Control by spot sampling at roadside locations: Minimum one sample per 

week taken over 15 minutes during peak traffic hours, i.e. in the period 8am - 10am 

or 3pm - 6pm on a workday. This test method will be re-evaluated by 2005 

****Note: If representativeness can be proven, yearly averages can be calculated 

from PM10 samples from selected weekdays from each month of the year. 




Annex 7: Recommended noise exposure limits for the work environment (adopted 

from Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 

S.No 

. 

Noise 

Exposure 

(dBA) 

Permissible exposure 

(Hours and Minutes) 

1. 85 16 hrs. 

2. 87 12 hrs. –18 min. 

3. 90 8 hrs. 

4. 93 5 hrs – 18 min. 

5. 96 3 hrs.-30 min. 

6. 99 2 hrs. – 18 min. 

7. 102 1 hr. – 30 min. 

8. 105 1 hr. 

9. 108 40 min. 

10. 111 26 min. 

11. 114 17 min. 

12. 115 15 min. 

13. 118 10 min. 

14. 121 6.6 min. 

15. 124 4 min. 

16. 127 3 min. 

17. 130 1 min. 

Source: Marsh, 1991 

Recommended Average Equivalent Sound Levels for Protecting the Public Health 

and Welfare 

S.No 

. 

Land Use Measure To Protect Against Activity 

Interference and Hearing Loss 

Effects 

1. Residential 

including farm 

residences 

Leq (24) 55 

2. Commercial Leq (24) 70 

3. Hospitals Leq (24) 55 

4. Industrial Leq (24) 70 

5. Educational Leq (24) 55 

6. Recreational Leq (24) 70 

Areas 

7. Farmland and 

general 

unpopulated 

land 

Leq (24) 70 

(dBA) 

Source: U.S Environmental Protection Agency, 1974 

Note: Leq (24) = Equivalent Sound Level in decibels for 24 hours. 




Annex 8: Recommended Standards for Vibration from Construction Sites 

Type of Restriction Area Classified 

Standard Value I & II 85 dBA 

Work Prohibited Time I 7.00 P.M. - 7.00 

A.M. 

II 10.00 P.M. - 6.00 

A.M. 

Maximum Working Duration I 10.00 hrs. per Day 

II 14 hrs. per Day 

Maximum Consecutive Working I & II 6 Days 

Days 

Working Prohibited Days I & II Saturdays & 

Holidays 

Source: Vibration Regulation Law 64 of 1976, Japan 

Notes: 1. Area I, stands for areas to which one of the following descriptions applies: 

Areas where maintenance of quiet is particularly needed to preserve the residential 

environment. 

Areas which require maintenance of quiet since they are need for residential purposes. 

Areas need for commercial and industrial as well as residential propose which are in 

need of measures to prevent vibration pollution since a considerable number of houses 

are located. 

The neighbourhood of schools, hospitals and the like. 

Area II stands for areas where there is a need to preserve the living environment of in 

habitants and other than Area I. 

2. Vibration level shall be measured at the boundary line of the specified 

construction work site. 

Recommended Limits for Road Traffic Vibration 

Area Day Night 

Applicable areas 

time time 

I 65 dB 60 dB Areas where maintenance of quiet is particularly 

needed to preserve a good living environment and 

where quiet is called for us as they are used for 

residential purpose. 

II 70 dB 65 dB Areas need for commercial and industrial as well 

as residential purposes where there is a need to 

preserve the living environment of local 

inhabitants and areas mainly serving industrial 

proposes which are in need of measures to 

prevent the living environment of local residents 

from deteriorating. 

Source: Vibration Regulation Law 64 of 1976, Japan 

Note: Vibration level shall be measured at the boundary line of the road. 


A. SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES 



Annex 9: Terms of Reference 

DSC Environment Specialist 

1. The specific objectives of the Environment Specialist‟s services are to: 

Ensure that all mitigation measures and monitoring requirements outlined in 

the Environmental Management Plan are carried out for different stages 

(detail design / pre-construction, construction and post-construction phases). 

Ensure that the environment of the sites and the zones of influence are 

protected and developed to meet the needs of the local people, the 

stakeholders and safeguard national interests. 

Undertake implementation activities as outlined under the Scope of Work. 

B. SCOPE OF WORK 

1. General 

2. The overall role of the EMP Environment Specialist is to implement EMPs and report 

directly to PID/KUKL on the level of compliance. The EMP Environment Specialist will be 

familiar with the IEE reference documents and the Project and its environmental and social 

requirements in order to review the IEE and EMP prepared for the Project. 

3. The Environment Specialist will monitor the contractual activities and see that the 

mitigation plan is executed in an environmentally sound manner to ensure that the 

suggested mitigation measures as outlined in the EMP are satisfactorily implemented. The 

Environment Specialist shall have the full responsibility for the professional quality of the 

supervision with respect to progress, quality of materials and works, and mitigation 

measures used. 

4. The EMP Environment Specialist will supplement the regular supervision by 

PID/KUKL staff and a Third Party Monitoring . 

5. The Environment Specialist will be responsible for planning and monitoring of 

mitigation measures to be carried out. A thorough participatory design process, with 

collaborating institutions (local governments, NGOs, line agencies, etc.), and local 

communities is of prime importance to the acceptance (feeling of ownership) by the local 

affected people and sustainability of the mitigation measures. 

2. Tasks 

6. The key tasks of the Environment Specialist shall include, but not be limited to: 

Task 1: Design / Pre-construction Phase 

Conduct initial site visits and meetings with the PID staff and contractor (when 

engaged). The purpose of this meeting would be to brief on any key findings, 

correct any factual inaccuracies, raise any remaining issues and questions, and 

discuss possible corrective actions, if considered necessary. 

The site visit shall: 

- Cover the right-of-way (ROW). 




- Visit contract work sites and associated infrastructure upgrades. 

- Visit representative heritage and ecological areas. 

- Meet with representative NGO‟s, and community and/or municipal leaders. 

- Meet with other parties responsible for compliance monitoring and review relevant 

monitoring records. 

Review and suggest for the continuous betterment of the EMP activities. 

Suggest additional items (not mentioned in the reports), after field visits, that have to 

be mitigated and monitored i.e. identify discrepancies and omissions. 

Assist the Community Awareness and Participation Consultant (CAPC) in preparing 

public awareness campaigns. 

Monitor EMP activities. 

In coordination with the contractors prepare a schedule of EMP monitoring activities, 

including the mobilization of human resources and time frame. 

Prepare field monitoring checklists for each contract package. 

Produce an overall estimate of the costs involved for mitigation measures with 

designs, drawings, estimates and bill of quantities (only for civil and bio-engineering 

works) and get it approved by PID/KUKL. 

Task 2: Activities During the Construction Phase of the Project 

Produce periodic reports to confirm: 

- That construction activities for the Project are being conducted in all respects in 

compliance with the EMP; and 

- That the contents of the IEE are those made public by MPPW or, where such 

contents have been amended, that such amendments have been followed in the 

field. 

The Environment Specialist is to prepare questionnaires, list of records required to 

be made available, prioritized interview lists, and prioritized field observation 

inspection requirements submitted to PID/KUKL, MPPW and ADB for information. 

Visits to Project work sites include: 

- Compiling reports, liaising and conferring with other parties responsible for 

environmental compliance monitoring, with the affected populations, and with 

NGOs. 

- Lead regular site meetings with PID/KUKL, Environment Specialists, Contractors 

etc. and prepare the minutes from such meetings (based on a standardized 

format). 

Monitor the contractors‟ environmental/social compliance, and make sure that all 

mitigation activities are implemented properly as stipulated in the contract 

specifications. 

Prepare a monitoring program suitable to determine the impacts and implement it to 

the satisfaction of PID/KUKL. 

Environment protection clauses are included in the contract documents. The EMP 

Environment Specialist will monitor the Contractor‟s implementation of such 

environment protection clauses, will issue field instructions as necessary, and will 

monitor the implementation of such field instructions: 




- Monitoring of the Construction Contractors‟ performance on meeting 

provisions of the Contract Documents and the EMP. 

- Monitoring of the effectiveness of the mitigation measures. 

- Instructing the Contractors on needed actions and corrective measures to 

comply with the EMP. 

- Assisting the CAPC and PID/KUKL in maintaining good relationships with 

people‟s consultative groups. 

- Participating in the site monitoring carried out by PID/KUKL, the public, etc. 

- Preparing monthly monitoring reports with a list of compliance and noncompliance 

works with recommendations. 

- Assisting in verifying the claims for compensation received from the public, 

arising from Project activities. 

Prepare an EMP compliance assessment report with a list of compliance and noncompliance 

works with recommendations. The report shall assess the compliance of 

the different actors with their obligations under the EMP and comment on the 

Contractor‟s quarterly reports relating to environmental, biophysical, socioeconomic, 

socio-cultural, health, safety or similar issues. The Environment Specialist and 

Contractors should identify any new issues that emerge as work progresses and 

implement the mitigations measures. Drafts of the reports shall be submitted to ADB 

through PID/KUKL within 5 working days The report will be finalized at the direction 

of PID/KUKL. 

There could be possible adverse impacts that may arise with the expected influx of 

people to the Kathmandu Valley Project sites as they either accompany construction 

workers or seek to provide goods and services to them. This may have a significant 

potential negative implication on the physical and social environment of the 

Kathmandu Valley. The Environment Specialist assess the issue and develop a plan 

on how it should be handled and its implementation closely monitored by PID/KUKL. 

Advice PID/KUKL on suitable procedures and locations for the safe disposal of 

surplus excavated spoil and/or any biologically contaminated material. Check the 

contractors licences / agreements and compliance for disposal of waste materials. 

Review existing information, carry out field survey and prepare separate reports on: 

- Impact of disposal of spoil and sludge on the environment (soil and water quality). 

- Impacts of the Project on Bio-diversity (flora and fauna). 

Task 3: Other Tasks 

7. In certain instances, the PID/KUKL may (i) request further information from the 

Environment Specialist at any time concerning any report produced, and (ii) seek further 

advice with respect to other matters that may arise in connection with the Project. If any 

requests should occur, the Environment Specialist will be provided with a scope of work on 

which to base a budget. The budget must be approved by PID/KUKL prior to proceeding 

with providing the requested incremental information or advice. 

8. The training program delivered under this contract by the Environment Specialist is 

to be specifically focused on mitigation and monitoring carried out to improve the 

environment. It is envisaged that the training program will be carried out early in the contract 

period primarily for the benefit of the PID/KUKL staff, contractors and community. 

9. The training program shall include but not be limited to the subjects of: 




Nepal‟s environmental regulations and ADB‟s environmental guidelines, policies and 

auditing requirements, including “Safeguards Policy Statement” (SPS), 2009; 

Monitoring and reporting; 

Preparation of monitoring checklists; 

Project management and administration; and 

Environmental management. 

10. To make environmental management transparent as well as receptive, regular 

reporting of the EMP monitoring (contract package-wise) will be made on the PID/KUKL 

website. 

11. The Environment Specialist shall prepare monthly monitoring reports (with dated 

photographs) of the components. The report will include the activities carried out in detail 

and actions taken against the non-compliance of EMP during the reporting period. Quarterly 

reports will also have to be prepared, summarizing the activities and an annual report. The 

Monthly Report will be submitted within 7 days of the end of each month. The Quarterly and 

Annual Reports will be an accumulation of the information in the Monthly reports and will be 

submitted within 15 days. 

12. Besides regular reporting, the Environment Specialist shall inform and consult with 

the designated representative of PID/KUKL without delay in case of major events 

threatening the successful and timely completion of the works. The Environment Specialist 

shall participate in monthly progress/coordination meetings with PID and make a short 

presentation on progress, problems, remedial actions proposed, and any other matters that 

should be considered in the meeting. 

13. The Environment Specialist will also provide timely component information for 

project use in the MIS format established by the PID. Submittals and reports will be 

generally submitted in both hard copy and electronic media. 

C. ENVIRONMENT SPECIALIST REQUIREMENTS 

Qualifications 

14. The Environment Specialist shall have experience in bio-physical, socio-economic, 

socio-cultural, health and safety auditing of urban infrastructure projects. Familiarity with 

Nepal‟s environmental regulations and ADBs‟ environmental guidelines, policies and 

auditing requirements is essential. 

15. The expected minimum qualifications of the Environment Specialist are: 

Basic Bachelor‟s degree in the appropriate field. An advanced degree (Master‟s) is 

desirable. 

A minimum of 10 years professional relevant work experience including 

environmental auditing, environmental regulations, and/or environmental compliance 

of construction projects. Experience should include being responsible for the 

completion of work, project organization and management duties. The candidate 

should have experience of monitoring or implementation of environmental, socioeconomic, 

and other related mitigation measures. 

Ability to prepare concise records and reports in English and Nepali. 

Advanced skills in effective communication, including public and agency 

communication. 

Summary of Tasks 




16. His/her tasks to be performed shall be, but not be limited to: 

Work as part of the DSC Team 

Report to PID/KUKL and other component managers as per the requirements 

through DSC. 

Plan, coordinate and administer all EMP activities. 

Produce and circulate periodic progress reports. 

Collect information from all the staff and other sources and disseminate it among 

staff and PID/KUKL. 

Organize regular meetings. 

Proactively carry out activities described in the scope of work as far as relevant. 

Anticipate the likely environmental impacts of carrying out various subprojects and 

proactively plan to take necessary action so that implementation is not delayed. 

Assist during the detailed Design Phase. 

During the Construction Phase, monitor compliance of the environmental 

management plan or any other environmental issues. 

Provide training programs involved in the project implementation. Training will include 

environmental considerations during construction and operation. 

Duration of Services 

17. The Environment Specialist will require a commitment till the Project completion date 

(about 5 years). Extension or reduction of the term will be determined by the construction 

schedule and can be adjusted or terminated by PID/KUKL. The performance of the 

Environment Specialist will be evaluated by PID/KUKL. 


Annex 10: UNESCO consultations 


















Annex 11: Balaju reservoir and Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park 

Source: Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation, GON, 2010 

Source: Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation, 2009 




Annex 12: Schedules 1 and 4 of the Ancient Monuments Preservation Rules 2046 

(1989) 

Schedule-1 

(Relating to Sub- rule 4.1.1) 

Department of Archaeology 

…………………………………. 

I am / We are going to carry out the following construction work in …………… 

monuments conserved zone, located in …………………of……………..District, ……..Zone, 

within the Following time period. Therefore, I/ We have field this application for obtaining the 

approval of the Department. I am / We are ready to bear any punishment, as per the 

prevailing laws, if construction work is made other than written in this application. 

Description of the construction work, which is going to be carried out within the 

monuments conserved areas and tentative time period to complete the construction: - 

…………………………………………………………………… 

Of the applicant, 

Name and Surname – 

Signature – 

Date – 

Permanent Address–- 

TemporaryAddress– 


Zone: 

District: 

Schedule-4 

(Relating to Sub-rule 4.3.1) 

The Description of Archaeological Object Form-2 



SNo. Archaeological Object Archaeological Object Found Remarks 

Name Material 

Composition 

Oldness 

(probable 

year) 

Measurements 

(length, width, 

thickness etc.) 

VDC/Municipality Ward 

no. 

The Local Officer: 

Date: 

Modified by the Ancient Monument Conservation (First Amendment) Rules, 2049 (1992): 

Village Tole Description of 

area 




Annex 13: Heritage Sites: Kathmandu Darbar Square and Patan Darbar Square, respectively 


Background 



Annex 14: PID SAFEGUARDS UNIT 

TOR of Specialists 

PID requires an Environment Specialist, a Social Safeguard Specialist and a Legal Specialist for 

the Safeguards Unit to be established for a period of two years (extendable). 

Qualifications 

18. The Specialists shall have experience in construction projects. Familiarity with Nepal‟s 

environmental regulations and ADB‟s environmental guidelines, policies and auditing 

requirements is essential. 

19. The expected minimum qualifications of the Specialists are: 

Tasks 

Basic Bachelor‟s degree in the appropriate field. An advanced degree (Master‟s) is 

desirable. 

A minimum of 5 years professional relevant work experience including environmental 

auditing, environmental regulations, and/or environmental compliance of construction 

projects. Experience should include being responsible for the completion of work, project 

organization and management duties. The candidate should have experience of 

monitoring or implementation of projects. 

Ability to prepare concise records and reports in English and Nepali. 

Advanced skills in effective communication, including public and agency communication. 

Environment Specialist 

The Environment Specialist should have experience relating to the implementation of 

Environment Management Plans and Environmental Monitoring. The Environmental Specialist‟s 

services will include, but will not necessarily be limited to, the following: 

(i) review the Environment Management Plan Implementation and all monitoring reports 

and issues raised therein and any environmental problems (physical, biological and 

social) encountered or identified during the course of construction. Coordinate with other 

team members, especially with the social expert, in working out recommendations to 

resolve issues; 

(ii) ensure that the Environmental Management Plan (EMP) continues to provide an 

adequate basis for assessing the effectiveness and timelines of mitigation and 

monitoring measures throughout the construction period; 

(iii) assess whether appropriate measures have been taken, as prescribed in the IEE and 

EMP; 

(iv) ensure that specific mitigation and monitoring measures related to all construction 

activities are being undertaken in a timely and adequate manner, and that the feedback 

mechanisms that will allow monitoring results to influence environmental management 

are functioning properly; 




(v) assess the effectiveness of the public consultation process together with the Social 

Development Specialist; and 

(vi) assess the effectiveness of all other mitigation measures, including measures required 

that may have been unforeseen during the IEE preparation. 

a. 

Social Safeguard Specialist 

The Social Safeguard Specialist, should have experience in the resettlement plan 

implementation and social mitigation measures as per the requirements. The Social Safeguard 

Specialist‟s service will include, but not necessarily limited to, the following: 

(i) review implementation of environment enhancement programs as well as their 

monitoring results and work closely with other unit members in recommending measures 

for resolving issues identified; 

(ii) ensure that construction works are progressing to the satisfaction of the affected 

communities and provide solutions to grievances according to the Grievance Redress 

Mechanism; 

(iii) review whether the availability and accessibility of health and safety facilities provided by 

the contractors for Project personnel is adequate; and 

(iv) any unforeseen social impacts arising from the direct or indirect impacts of the Project 

are adequately addressed. 

Legal Specialist 

The Legal Specialist should have experience in consensus building among a large number of 

stakeholders with differing interests in the Projects. His/her services will include, but not 

necessarily limited to, the following: 

(i) review issues raised by the Project communities and visit sites for first hand information 

and consultation with the affected persons on any issues raised to arrive at a reasonable 

solution; 

(ii) advice on potential conflict areas and disputes, possibly early, before a “molehill 

becomes a mountain”; 

(iii) recommend procedures and measures for resolution of disputes or issues related to 

Project implementation or operation and; 

(iv) suggest measures for the amicable settlement of grievances and disputes.

Kathmandu Valley Water Distribution, Sewerage, and Urban - Asian ...

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