Padma Multipurpose Bridge Project

ConstructionMedium negative impacts encountered due to development of allproject sites over temporary wetlands (floodplains) and fish pondsOperation & Maintenance Long-lasting impact because of interruption of fish migration (loss ofyear classes) and medium negative impacts are expected due toinduced development activitiesCharlandCharland contains a unique ecosystem within the Project area and harbor significant population,flora as well as fauna. A recently formed and vegetated Charland, but non inhabitated, is locateddirectly below the main bridge alignment.Assessment of ImpactsPre- constructionConstructionOperation & MaintenanceNo impactMedium negative impact due the construction activities along themain bridge alignment requires dredging of the existing char, whichis recently formed and non inhabitated. Since the formation anderosion of Charland in Padma is a continuous process, the impacton the inhabitated char is expected to be medium. Further somenewly emerged Charland will be used for reclamation of dredgedmaterial and development of a construction yard near Mawa.Positive impact by provision of protected sanctuary in the char area(to be part of project).Air QualityAmbient air quality in the project area is affected by ferry operations. Air pollution may occurthrough the use of vehicles and equipments, cleaning of materials, coating of constructionmaterials, dust from stone/brick crushing etc. Severe air pollution may lead to health hazard.Assessment of impactsPre- constructionConstructionOperation &MaintenanceMobilization of equipment and vehicles at the resettlement sites haslow negative impact. Development of green areas and otherplantation activities in the resettlement sites will have positiveimpact on the air quality.Medium negative impact due to mobilization and operation ofvehicles and equipment, asphalt and concrete plants, andconstruction yards. Local air quality will be deteriorated from theemission of vehicles, construction equipments, dusts generatedfrom construction activities, crushing of stones/rocks, etc.Medium negative impact during O/M of approach roads and bridge.Widening of NH8 and road network also has medium negativeimpact.Water QualityPhysical and chemical quality of the river water and other surface water bodies is the crucial forsustenance of aquatic habitat. Groundwater is the major source of drinking and irrigation in theproject area.Assessment of impactsPre- constructionLow negative impact during construction of resettlement sitesConstructionMedium negative impacts on surface water quality due to (i)dredging activities, (ii) construction of main bridge and otherstructures over water bodies (and ii) construction activities nearriver. Further, accidental spillage of fuels, lubricants,chemicals/solvents and construction waste will contaminate bothOperation &Maintenancesurface and ground waters.No significant impact. However there could be medium to high levelrisks due to accidental spillage of fuels, lubricants,chemicals/solvents.WasteConstruction debris and solid/liquid wastes generated from construction yards and sites willdeteriorate the environment in their immediate surroundings of disposal.Assessment of ImpactsPre- constructionConstructionNo significant impactMedium negative impacts encountered during disposal of wastes at4-10