ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT FOR THE PROPOSED ... · This is a South African Power Pool (SAPP) initiative. A previous Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) was conducted (June

ENVIRO DYNAMICS CC

JANUARY 2014

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT FOR THE PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION OF A 330 KV TRANSMISSION LINE FROM THE ZAMBEZI SUBSTATION TO THE WENELA/SESHEKE BORDER

Proposed 330 kV Transmission Line Zambezi Substation to the Wenela/Sesheke Border

Scoping Report

January 2014

COPYRIGHT © ENVIRO DYNAMICS, 2014. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

PROJECT NAME Proposed 330 kV Transmission Line From Zambezi Substation to

the Wenela/Sesheke Border

STAGE OF REPORT Draft Scoping Report for Public Review

CLIENT NamPower (Pty) Ltd

Enquiries: Mr Horst Mutschler

Tel: (061) 205-2261

E-Mail: [email protected]

LEAD CONSULTANT Enviro Dynamics CC

Enquiries: Sheldon Husselmann

Tel: (061) 223-336

E-Mail: [email protected]

DATE OF RELEASE 14 January 2014

CONTRIBUTORS TO THIS

REPORT

Sheldon Husselmann, Eddy Kuliwoye

Internal Reviewer: Stephanie van Zyl

mailto:[email protected]

mailto:[email protected]


Scoping Report

January 2014

DECLARATION

I hereby declare that I:

have knowledge of and experience in conducting assessments, including

knowledge of the Environmental Management Act (7 of 2007), its

regulations and guidelines that have relevance to the proposed activity;

have performed the work relating to the application in an objective

manner, regardless of whether or not the views and findings were

favourable to the applicant;

have complied with the Act, and its regulations, guidelines and other

applicable laws.

I also declare that there is, to my knowledge, no information in my possession that

reasonably has or may have the potential of influencing –

any decision to be taken with respect to the application in terms of the Act

and its regulations; or

the objectivity of this report, plan or document prepared in terms of the Act

and its regulations.

Stephanie van Zyl

Environmental Assessment Practitioner (EAP)

Proposed 330 kV Power Line Zambezi Substation to the Wenela/Sesheke Border

Scoping Report

January 2014

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

INTRODUCTION

NamPower has built a 350 kV transmission link, known as the Caprivi Link Interconnector,

between the Zambezi Region and the power network in central Namibia. This link

provides a connection between the Namibian and Zambian/Zimbabwean electricity

networks. The ZIZABONA parties (ZESA, ZESCO, BPC and NamPower) have agreed to

cooperate in the development of transmission infrastructure for this link. This is a South

African Power Pool (SAPP) initiative.

A previous Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) was conducted (June to September

2011) for a proposed 330 kV transmission line route from a location near Ngoma (a

settlement located near the Namibia-Botswana border) to the Zambezi Substation. This

route was intended to link the Caprivi Link Interconnector to the Zambian/Zimbabwean

electricity networks via Botswana. The proposed 330 kV transmission line route from the

Wenela/Sesheke Border to Zambezi Substation will replace this previous route.

Stakeholders involved in that EIA process have been informed of this change.

NamPower has appointed Enviro Dynamics CC to conduct an EIA and compile a

Specific Environmental Management Plan (EMP) for the proposed transmission line

route.

The terms of reference for this EIA are as follows:

Assessment of the proposed route;

Compilation of a site specific EMP; and

Compilation of a scoping report.

Specialist studies were conducted at a scoping level, which was sufficient to address

the impacts identified. The following studies were conducted:

Archaeology – J. Kinahan;

Birds – M. and A. Scott; and

Vegetation – B. Strohbach.

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PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The proposed 330 kV transmission line route will run from the Namibia-Zambia border

approximately 3 km north east of Katima Mulilo, for approximately 3 km, parallel to an

existing 220 kV transmission line, to the Zambezi substation located approximately 3 km

due east of Katima Mulilo (Figure 1).

STRUCTURAL REQUIREMENTS

The structures to be used on the proposed line will either be a guyed or a self-

supporting structure, or a combination of both. The servitude was initially 80 m wide,

but after consultations with the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry (MAWF) it was

reduced to 66 m. Only 12 m width will be totally clear of tall vegetation. The footprints

around the pylons will be totally cleared of vegetation for access purposes during

maintenance. However, the EIA team assessed a corridor of at least 300 m wide (150 m

on either side of the proposed centre line).

Figure 1: Proposed route for the 330 kV transmission line

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LEGAL AND BASELINE ENVIRONMENT

A thorough review of relevant legal instruments has been conducted. The most

pertinent legal provisions are those from the Forestry Act concerning the removal and

transport of protected plant species.

A concise description of the baseline conditions of the receiving environment has been

provided, informed by specialists’ scoping studies where relevant. Key sensitivities and

potential impacts for relevant aspects of both the socio-economic and biophysical

environment have been highlighted. These most significant sensitivities relate to birds,

vegetation and land use.

ISSUES IDENTITIFIED SO FAR

THEME ISSUE

BIRDS The collision of birds with the power lines.

VEGETATION Loss of valuable resources owing to bulldozing of vegetation.

Aggressive encroachment owing to bulldozing of vegetation and injudicious

application of herbicides.

LAND USE The land that the proposed route traverses has been allocated for large scale

agriculture by the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry.

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

Public participation was carried out in accordance with the EIA Regulations. Various

stakeholders at national, regional and local level were identified and their input

solicited. Particular effort was exerted to involve stakeholders at a local level – those

living in and around the project area. Key representatives from the communities along

the previous proposed route were informed of the change in proposed route for this

SAPP project.

Based on the comments received throughout the public consultation process the main

issues that the stakeholders were concerned about were the clearing of vegetation

and potential land use conflicts.

IMPACT ASSESSMENT

The issues identified in the environmental baseline and during the public participation

process are assessed using a range of assessment criteria. The application of these

criteria uses a balanced consideration of duration, extent, and intensity/magnitude,

modified by probability, cumulative effects, and confidence in order to determine

significance. Mitigation measures are outlined for each impact.

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RECOMMEDATIONS AND CONCLUSIONS

The key impacts and their mitigation measures are summarised below:

Vegetation impacts: The impact significance rating for the clearing of

vegetation in the project area is medium, owing the moderately disturbed

nature of the area and relatively low vegetation species diversity (only 2 of the

expected 4 high value timber species were observed on site). In order to

minimise the loss of valuable resources, it is recommended, when clearing the

proposed route, that all trees should be felled using appropriate mechanical

devices. High value timber should be removed to a sawmill, while other timber

should be left alongside the clearing for the local population to utilise. Bulldozing

(during construction) and the injudicious application of herbicides (during

construction and operation) may result in the aggressive encroachment by

certain species. Herbicides, if applied, should only be done through the use of

foliar spray and not via soil or aerial application.

Loss of arable land: The potential loss of land represent a small percentage of a

typical large scale farm and hence the pre-mitigation impact significance rating

is low to medium. The utilisation of an alternate pylon design and consequent

reduction in the land loss reduces the impact significance to low. The use of self-

supporting pylon structures will allow for a reduction in the total servitude width.

Impacts on birds: Disturbance of breeding birds and bird mortalities due to

collisions with power lines pose a threat to biodiversity and thus have been

assigned a medium pre-mitigation impact significance rating and the following is

therefore recommended to mitigate these impacts:

o Before construction starts, inspect proposed transmission line route for any

signs of nests and avoid the disturbance of breeding birds. Where

possible, avoid the unnecessary destruction of nesting habitat (i.e. large

trees or shrubs); and

o The proposed transmission line should be proactively marked with an

appropriate design of bird flight diverter, in order to increase the visibility

of the line. Markers should be fixed to the conductors before being

erected and remain affixed until transmission line is decommissioned.

o Monitoring of the proposed transmission line should be conducted

according to the bird specialist’s recommendations.

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It is concluded that most of the impacts identified during this Environmental Assessment

can be addressed through the recommended mitigation and management actions for

both the construction and operation phases of this project. Should the

recommendations included in this report and both the Generic and Specific EMP be

implemented, the significance of the impacts can be reduced to reasonably

acceptable standards and durations.

It is therefore recommended that the project receive Environmental Clearance,

provided that the recommendations above, Generic EMP and the Specific EMP be

implemented.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ................................................................................................................... 4

LIST OF FIGURES AND TABLES ..................................................................................................... 11

LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS .............................................................................................................. 12

LIST OF APPENDICES .................................................................................................................... 14

1 INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................... 15

1.1 BACKGROUND ............................................................................................................. 15

1.2 TERMS OF REFERENCE .................................................................................................. 16

1.3 ADDITIONAL STUDIES .................................................................................................... 17

2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION ....................................................................................................... 18

2.1 NEED FOR THE PROJECT .............................................................................................. 18

2.2 THE PROPOSED TRANSMISSION LINE ROUTE .............................................................. 18

2.3 STRUCTURAL REQUIREMENTS ....................................................................................... 18

2.4 CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES ......................................................................................... 20

2.5 WASTE MATERIALS ........................................................................................................ 20

2.6 EMPLOYMENT CREATION ............................................................................................ 21

3 RELEVANT POLICIES AND LEGISLATION ............................................................................. 22

4 RECEIVING ENVIRONMENT ................................................................................................. 25

4.1 CLIMATE ......................................................................................................................... 25

4.2 FLORA ............................................................................................................................ 26

4.3 BIRDS .............................................................................................................................. 28

4.3.1 HABITAT................................................................................................................... 28

4.3.2 PROTECTED LAND STATUS .................................................................................... 29

4.3.3 BIRD DIVERSITY ....................................................................................................... 29

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4.3.4 RED DATA BIRD SPECIES ....................................................................................... 29

4.3.5 BIRD SPECIES AT RISK ............................................................................................. 30

4.3.6 SPECIES INVOLVED IN NEST-INDUCED FAULTS.................................................... 31

4.3.7 SENSITIVE/BREEDING TIMES FOR POWER LINE-SENSITIVE BIRD SPECIES ........... 31

4.4 SOCIO-ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT ........................................................................... 33

4.4.1 RELEVANT POPULATION CHARACTERISTICS ....................................................... 33

4.4.2 UNREGULATED BORDER MOVEMENT .................................................................. 33

4.4.3 LAND USE ............................................................................................................... 33

5 PUBLIC CONSULTATION ....................................................................................................... 35

6 IMPACT ASSESSMENT ........................................................................................................... 37

6.1 METHODOLOGY EMPLOYED FOR THE IMPACT ASSESSMENT .................................. 37

6.2 ASSESSMENT OF IMPACTS ............................................................................................ 40

6.3 DISCUSSION ................................................................................................................... 44

7 RECOMMENDATIONS AND CONCLUSIONS ..................................................................... 48

8 REFERENCES .......................................................................................................................... 50

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LIST OF FIGURES AND TABLES

Figure 1: Proposed route for the 330 kV transmission line ................................................. 5

Figure 2: The Caprivi Link Interconnector route, linking Namibia to the

Zambian/Zimbabwean electricity networks ..................................................... 15

Figure 3: An example of the proposed 330 kV structure ................................................ 18

Figure 4: Proposed route for the 330 kV transmission line ............................................... 19

Figure 5: Servitude details for the proposed transmission line ........................................ 20

Figure 6: Baikiaea plurijuga – Pterocarpus angolensis bushlands as seen, along the

B6 main road SW of Katima Mulilo. .................................................................... 27

Figure 7: Location of sites likely to attract birds as well as potential flight paths (yellow

arrows) .................................................................................................................... 28

Figure 8: Land uses within the project area ...................................................................... 34

Figure 9: Meeting held at the ExCo chamber at the Zambezi Regional Council

offices in Katima Mulilo ........................................................................................ 36

Figure 10: Screening process to determine key issues ...................................................... 38

Table 1: Vegetation features, sensitivities and possible impacts of project on flora. ... 27

Table 2: Sensitivities relating to birds ..................................................................................... 32

Table 3: Sensitivities relating to socio-economic conditions ............................................. 34

Table 4: Definitions of each of the criteria used to determine the significance of

impacts .................................................................................................................. 39

Table 5: Definitions of the various significance ratings ...................................................... 40

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LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS

AIDS Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome

BID Background Information Document

BPC Botswana Power Corporation

CE Critically Endangered

CV Curriculum Vitae

DEA Directorate of Environmental Affairs

E Endangered

ECB Electricity Control Board

EIA Environmental Impact Assessment

EMP Environmental Management Plan

GT Globally Threatened

HIV Human Immunodeficiency Virus

HVDC High Voltage Direct Current

I&APs Interested and Affected Parties

IBA Important Bird Area

KAZA TFCA Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area

kV Kilovolts

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MAWF Ministry of Agriculture Water and Forestry

NORED Northern Regional Electricity Distribution Company

NT Near Threatened

SAPP Southern African Power Pool

V Vulnerable

ZESA Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority

ZESCO Zambia Electricity Supply Corporation

ZIZABONA Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana and Namibia

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LIST OF APPENDICES

Appendix A CV

Appendix B1 Generic EMP

Appendix B2 Specific EMP

Appendix C Archaeology Field Survey Report

Appendix D Bird Impact Report

Appendix E Vegetation Impact Report

Appendix F Stakeholders List

Appendix G Background Information Document

Appendix H Newspaper Notices

Appendix I Meeting Minutes

Appendix J Issues and Responses Trail

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1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND

NamPower has built a 350 kV High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) transmission link,

known as the Caprivi Link Interconnector, between the north-eastern Zambezi Region

and the power network in central Namibia (Figure 2). The Caprivi Link Interconnector

provides a connection between the Namibian and Zambian/Zimbabwean electricity

networks. The aforementioned networks along with the national power grid in

Botswana comprise the South African Power Pool (SAPP). The ZIZABONA parties (ZESA,

ZESCO, BPC and NamPower) have agreed to cooperate in the development of

transmission infrastructure for this link.

A previous Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) was conducted (June to September

2011) for a proposed 330 kV transmission line route from a location near Ngoma (a

settlement located near the Namibia-Botswana border) to the Zambezi Substation (see

Figure 4 below). This route was intended to link the Caprivi Link Interconnector to the

Zambian/Zimbabwean electricity networks via Botswana. The proposed 330 kV

transmission line route from the Wenela/Sesheke Border to Zambezi Substation will

replace this previous route. The replacement is due to a decision made by the

Executive Committee of the SAPP to change the point of supply from Botswana to

Zambia.

Figure 2: The Caprivi Link Interconnector route, linking Namibia to the

Zambian/Zimbabwean electricity networks

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The representatives from those communities situated along the previous route (from

Ngoma to Zambezi Substation) were invited to a meeting in Katima Mulilo during which

it was explained that the previous transmission line route (from Ngoma to Zambezi

Substation) was being replaced by the proposed route (Zambezi Substation to

Wenela/Sesheke Border).

NamPower has appointed Enviro Dynamics CC to conduct an EIA for the proposed

transmission line route in accordance with the Environmental Management Act of 2007

and its Regulations (2012). Enviro Dynamics will only be responsible for the assessing the

proposed route within Namibia. The project partners in Zambia will be responsible

ensuring compliance with their legislative requirements.

This Scoping Report is the culmination of the first phase of an EIA process. During this

scoping phase, information was gathered concerning any potential impacts whether

positive or negative in nature and their relative significance was determined. This

document provides information regarding whether further in-depth investigation (i.e. a

full EIA) is required or not. If all issues/impacts can be addressed without further

investigation, this document will be submitted to the Directorate of Environmental

Affairs (DEA) along with the Environmental Management Plan (EMP). It is the opinion of

the Lead Consultant that sufficient information is available to address all impacts that

have been identified thus far with a high level of confidence. Thus this Scoping Report

will be submitted for immediate consideration for Environmental Clearance, without the

need for further investigations. Sheldon Husselmann is the Trainee Environmental

Assessment Practitioner who conducted the assessment under the supervision of

Stephanie van Zyl who is a qualified and recognised Environmental Assessment

Practitioner (see Appendix A for CV).

1.2 TERMS OF REFERENCE

The Terms of Reference for the proposed project is based on the requirements set out

by the Environmental Management Act (2007) and its Regulations (February 2012). The

process covered the following steps, which are reported on in this document as follows:

Provide a detailed description of the proposed activity (Chapter 2);

Identify all legislation, policies and guidelines that have reference to the

proposed project (Chapter 3);

Identify existing environmental (both ecological and socio-economic) conditions

of the receiving environment in order to determine environmental sensitivities

(Chapter 4);

Inform Interested and Affected Parties (I&APs) and relevant authorities of the

details of the proposed development and provide them with a reasonable

opportunity to participate during the process (Chapter 5);

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Consider the potential environmental impacts of the development, and assess

the significance of the identified impacts (Chapter 6).

Outline management and mitigation measures in a Specific EMP (Appendix B2)

to minimise and/or mitigate potentially negative impacts, which cannot be

avoided.

1.3 ADDITIONAL STUDIES

The following specialist studies were conducted at a scoping level. Sufficient

information was/is available for the impacts identified to date within the respective

specialists’ field of study to warrant scoping level investigations:

Archaeology (see Appendix C) – J. Kinahan;

Birds (see Appendix D) – M. and A. Scott; and

Vegetation (see Appendix E) – B. Strohbach

The following section provides a detailed description of the proposed project and its

components.

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2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The need for and locality of the proposed new transmission line is provided in this

chapter as well as the technical specifications of the infrastructure to be constructed.

This chapter highlights aspects of this project, which are likely to interact significantly

with the socio-ecological environment.

2.1 NEED FOR THE PROJECT

The Caprivi Link Interconnector provides a link between the Namibian and

Zambian/Zimbabwean electricity networks to ensure reliable power transfer capability

between the east and west of the South African Power Pool (SAPP). Namibia is at

present a net importer of electricity and establishing a link with the

Zambian/Zimbabwean electricity networks diversifies Namibia’s potential source of

supply. One of the main reasons for establishing the link was to ensure reliable power

supply to the Eastern Zambezi, which is now connected to the Namibian electricity grid.

2.2 THE PROPOSED TRANSMISSION LINE ROUTE

The proposed route is illustrated in Figure 4 below. The new 330 kV transmission line

route will run from the Namibia-Zambia border approximately 3 km north east of Katima

Mulilo, for approximately 3 km, parallel to an existing 220 kV transmission line, to the

Zambezi substation located approximately 3 km due

east of Katima Mulilo.

2.3 STRUCTURAL REQUIREMENTS

The structures to be used on the proposed line will either

be a guyed or a self-supporting structure, or a

combination of both. An example is illustrated in Figure

3.

The servitude was initially 80 m wide, but after

consultation with MAWF was reduced to 66 m. Only 12 m

width will be totally cleared of tall vegetation (Figure 5).

The footprints around the pylons will be totally cleared of

vegetation for access purposes during maintenance.

However, the EIA team assessed a corridor of at least 300

m wide (150 m on either side of the proposed centre line)

to allow for the manoeuvring of the route if any

additional issues are identified during the line survey. Figure 3: An example of the

proposed 330 kV structure

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Figure 4: Proposed route for the 330 kV transmission line

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For safety and technical reasons, no permanent structures are allowed within the

servitude. Grazing and cultivation of fields with associated farming activities may be

accommodated within this area, except for the 12 m strip, which is needed during

construction.

2.4 CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES

All the components for power line construction (concrete, pylons, conductors, and

insulators, etc.) will be transported to site by road on low-bed trailers. The main access

road to the line is the B8 from Katima Mulilo. There are some district roads in the vicinity

of Katima Mulilo, which may be used to access the proposed route. From here

materials will be transported along the line via the existing single track gravel road

servicing the existing transmission line. No significant impacts associated with traffic

interruption are expected on these roads. Even though the traffic will increase, this will

be for a short period. However, standard traffic management needs to be addressed

within the EMP.

When erecting the steel structures, they will either be erected by using a crane to place

the pre-assembled tower onto the concrete foundation or by building up the tower

from its concrete foundation section by section. The conductors will be strung using

heavy-duty mechanical winches.

Concrete for the pylon foundations will be mixed and poured on site or at a batching

plant in close proximity. Hence, all the concrete constituents (crushed stone, cement,

water and sand) will be transported to the area.

Most often, construction camps accommodating construction labour force are located

close to the work area.

2.5 WASTE MATERIALS

Besides some left-over concrete and various other residual building material, normal

domestic waste such as plastic bags, tins, bottles, paper, and packaging waste will also

be generated. Waste generation is an obvious impact of any project and needs to be

managed in an appropriate manner in order to minimise the project’s ecological

Total 66 m

servitude to be

clear of

settlement.

33 m

servitude on

either side

of the line.

12m to be

cleared of

vegetation

Figure 5: Servitude details for the proposed transmission line

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footprint. Waste management is addressed in the Generic EMP (Appendix B1) for this

project.

2.6 EMPLOYMENT CREATION

Employment opportunities on this project are limited. The construction of transmission

lines is a specialised operation, which will be managed by a local or foreign contractor

who will bring specialist foreign and Namibian staff from areas outside the project area.

The only activities for which the contractors may use local unskilled labour is for the

debushing of the site (debushing will be done mostly with machines, but may be

supplemented with manual labour) and for the digging of the foundations.

The maintenance of the new transmission line is likely to be done by existing NamPower

staff, therefore, no employment creation is expected during operation. If an

agreement can be reached between NamPower and the local authorities, the

maintenance of the cleared portion of the servitude could serve as an employment

opportunity.

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3 RELEVANT POLICIES AND LEGISLATION

The pursuit of sustainability is guided by a sound legislative and policy framework. This section provides a review of

applicable and relevant legislation, policies and guidelines, both international and national. This review serves to inform

the developer of the requirements and expectations, as laid out in terms of these instruments, to be fulfilled before the

proposed project may commence. The findings of the above mentioned review are summarised below.

THEME LEGISLATION

INSTRUMENT

RELEVANT PROVISIONS RELEVANCE TO PROJECT

The

Constitution

Namibian

Constitution First

Amendment Act 34

of 1998

“The State shall actively promote and maintain the welfare of the

people by adopting policies that are aimed at maintaining

ecosystems, essential ecological processes and the biological diversity

of Namibia. It further promotes the sustainable utilisation of living

natural resources basis for the benefit of all Namibians, both present

and future.” (Article 95(I)).

Ecological sustainability should

inform and guide these projects.

Environmental Environmental

Management Act

(EMA) 7 of 2007

Requires that projects with significant environmental impact are

subject to an environmental assessment process (Section 27).

Requires for adequate public participation during the

environmental assessment process for interested and affected

parties to voice their opinions about a project (Section 2(b-c)).

According to Section 5(4) a person may not discard waste as

defined in Section 5(1)(b) in any way other than at a disposal site

declared by the Minister of Environment and Tourism or in a

manner prescribed by the Minister.

Details principles which are to guide all EIAs.

The EMA and its regulations should

inform and guide this EIA process.

EIA Regulations GN

57/2007 (GG 3812)

Details requirements for public consultation within a given

environmental assessment process (GN No 30 S21).

Details the requirements for what should be included in a Scoping

Report (GN No 30 S8) an EIA report (GN No 30 S15).

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THEME LEGISLATION

INSTRUMENT


Vegetation Forestry Act 12 of

2001

Nature

Conservation

Ordinance 4 of

1975

Tree species and any vegetation within 100m from a watercourse

may not be removed without a permit (S22(1)).

Prohibits the removal of and transport of various protected plant

species.

The clearing of vegetation is

prohibited (subject to a permit)

100m either side of a river. Certain

tree species occurring in the area

are protected under this Act and

require a permit from the

Directorate of Forestry for removal.

Health and

Safety

Labour Act 11 of

2007

Empowers the minister responsible for labour to publish

regulations pertaining to health and safety of labourers (S135).

Details requirements regarding minimum wage and working

conditions (S39-47).

All contractors involved in the

construction of the services

infrastructure for this project are

require to comply with this Act and

its regulations. Health and Safety

Regulations GN

156/1997 (GG 1617)

Details various requirements regarding health and safety of labourers.

Public Health Act 36

of 1919

Section 119 states that “no person shall cause a nuisance or shall suffer

to exist on any land or premises owned or occupied by him or of

which he is in charge any nuisance or other condition liable to be

injurious or dangerous to health.”

Potential nuisances (e.g. dust

generation) should be considered

during the construction phase and

avoided.

Energy Electricity Act No.4

of 2007

The Electricity Control Board (ECB) with regards to achieving its

objectives must make recommendations to the Minister

regarding the issue and renewing of licences (S 3(2)(a)).

A licence needs to be obtained from the ECB for the transmission

of electricity (S 17(1)(c)).

The Minister or ECB may request that an EIA accompany

applications for licences (S 21(2)(a)(i)).

Restoration of land and rehabilitation measures may be

stipulated as a condition of a licence (S 24(2)(b)).

NamPower should adhere to

the recommendations made

by the ECB.

NamPower requires a licence

for the transmission of

electricity.

NamPower should adhere to

any restoration or

rehabilitation measures

stipulated in the conditions of

approval laid out by the ECB.

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THEME LEGISLATION

INSTRUMENT


Water Water Act 54 of

1956

The Water Resources Management Act 24 of 2004 is presently without

regulations; therefore the Water Act No 54 of 1956 is still in force:

Prohibits the pollution of underground and surface water bodies

(S23(1)).

Liability of clean-up costs after closure/ abandonment of an

activity (S23(2)).

Protection from surface and underground water pollution

The protection of ground and

surface water resources should be

a priority. The main threats will

most likely be concrete and

hydrocarbon spills during

construction. This will be

addressed in the EMP.

The key legal provisions from those listed in the table above include those from the Forestry Act pertaining to the removal

of and transport of protected plant species the other provisions will be addressed in the EMP where applicable. A permit

needs to be obtained from the Directorate of Forestry before the proposed route is cleared of vegetation. The names of

these species are listed below in Section 4.2.

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4 RECEIVING ENVIRONMENT

This chapter provides an overview of the baseline social and ecological

environmental conditions, with which the proposed project will interact. This

information has been sourced from the specialist investigations, observations made

during a site visit and existing literature from previous research conducted in the

area.

4.1 CLIMATE

The long term averages for rainfall and temperature provide a relatively robust

understanding of climatic conditions and these are mostly a function of latitude. The

project area receives in excess of 600 mm annually, has average maximum

temperatures between 32 and 35°C (Mendelsohn, et al., 2009) and average

minimum temperatures between 2 and 4°C. The area receives summer rainfall

(October to April). Rainfall is highly variable and is often received in intense bursts

characteristic of convectional rainfall.

An understanding of climatic conditions, in particular rainfall, is important in

determining the risk of flooding and erosion, which for this project is mostly of

concern during the construction phase.

No significant climate related sensitivities have been identified. However, a

description of the prevailing long-term weather conditions is beneficial in that it

provides a broader understanding of the wider project environment.

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4.2 FLORA

Besides fulfilling many ecological functions, the vegetation in the study area can be

considered as a highly valuable resource for people. 88% of all houses are built with

wood, 78% of homes are thatched with grasses or reeds and 96% of all households

use firewood for cooking (Mendelsohn & Roberts, 1997).

Ben Strohbach carried out a field survey in the project area to determine the impact

on vegetation as a result of the transmission line. His findings are presented below in

summary form.

Strohbach used the vegetation units provided in Mendelsohn and Roberts (1997) as

a baseline, which was ground-truthed during the field survey. The unit identified for

the project area does not align exactly with what was observed during fieldwork,

although they provide a good indication of the types of vegetation occurring along

the proposed transmission line route. The project area is moderately disturbed, with

a dense shrub layer, evidence of frequent fires. The area displays relatively low levels

of vegetation species diversity, with only a few protected species present.

Table 1 below provides a brief description of the Baikiaea plurijuga – Pterocarpus

angolensis bushlands surveyed during fieldwork for this study. This table also

highlights vegetation sensitivities and impacts, which may result from this project.

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Table 1: Vegetation features, sensitivities and possible impacts of project on flora.

ENVIRONMENTAL

FEATURE

DESCRIPTION SENSITIVITY POTENTIAL IMPACTS

The Baikiaea

plurijuga –

Pterocarpus

angolensis

bushlands:

Characterised by Acacia fleckii, Acrotome

inflata, Baikiaea plurijuga, Baphia

massaiensis subsp. obovata var. obovata,

Bauhinia petersiana subsp. macrantha,

Dactyloctenium giganteum, Digitaria

seriata, Eragrostis jeffreysii, Guibourtia

coleosperma, Jacquemontia tamnifolia,

Rhus tenuinervis, Schinziophyton rautanenii,

Sesbania sp. and Strychnos pungens. These

are constantly accompanied by: Acacia

erioloba, Burkea africana, Combretum

collinum, Grewia retinervis, Hibiscus sp.,

Ochna pulchra, Pogonarthria fleckii,

Terminalia sericea and Vernonia poskeana.

Occur on the deep sandy soils along the

transmission line route. A large number of

timber tree species are expected to occur,

including Pterocarpus angolensis,

Guibourtia coleosperma, Baikiaea plurijuga

and Burkea africana. However, only two of

these prominent timber species were

observed during field observations.

Low number of

valuable trees

species that are

protected, therefore

area surveyed within

this unit has a

moderate sensitivity

rating.

Loss of trees and

associated

resources.

Formation of

extensive bare

patches, recolonized

slowly with annual

grasses

Extensive coppicing

of Combretum

collinum and

Bauhinia petersiana.

Encroachment by

Dichrostachys

cinerea shrubs and

Clerodendron

uncinatum).

Figure 6: Baikiaea plurijuga –

Pterocarpus angolensis

bushlands as seen, along the

B6 main road SW of Katima

Mulilo.

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4.3 BIRDS

The bird specialists on the project team have produced a detailed report on bird

habitat and power line sensitive species occurring in the study area (Appendix D).

What follows is a summary of their findings.

4.3.1 HABITAT

The Broad-leaved Tree-and-Shrub Savannah of the study area grows mainly on deep

Kalahari Sandsveld, the plant life being dominated by several species of large trees that

can form a moderately thick canopy.

Significant landscape features within the wider project area include several large river

systems with their associated floodplains, including the Zambezi River, which is closest to

the project area (Figure 4). Other features include the summer rainfall, frequent and

widespread fires, and grazing pressure from wildlife and livestock.

Sites of particular relevance to the project area include an agricultural plot with centre

pivot irrigation system, a disused fish farm, a municipal waste disposal and sewage

treatment facility (both located south-east of the proposed line) and rice fields north-

east of Katima Mulilo near the Zambezi River (see Figure 7).

Figure 7: Location of sites likely to attract birds as well as potential flight paths (yellow arrows)

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Given the location of the environmental features and sites outlined above, the whole

project area is regarded as sensitive in terms of potentially negative interactions

between birds and the proposed power line. Potential flight paths between these

areas are suggested in Figure 7.

4.3.2 PROTECTED LAND STATUS

An indication of the biodiversity value of an area is the protected status of that area.

By implication the protected land status is also an indication of potential biodiversity

risks. The location of 3 national parks (one of which is a transfrontier conservation area –

KAZA TFCA) adjacent to the wider project area indicates a relatively high conservation

status. The Eastern Caprivi Wetlands are classified as an Important Bird Area (IBA)

covering the entire area east of the Kwando River (Barnes, 1998). The wider project

area also includes several communal conservancies and community forests.

4.3.3 BIRD DIVERSITY

East Caprivi as a whole and its wetlands in particular, holds one of the richest diversities

of bird species in Namibia. A total of 417 bird species have been recorded in the study

area, representing 62% of the total number of species found in the country (Appendix

D).

According to Simmons et al. (1998), the most important features of the East Caprivi

Wetlands are the swampy areas and floodplains, which are important breeding habitat

for a large variety of wetland birds. The wider project area is also rich in raptor species,

while various other open-country species also occur.

4.3.4 RED DATA BIRD SPECIES

Of the 417 species recorded in the study area, 28 (7%) are threatened in Namibia

(Simmons & Brown in press); in addition, 17 (4%) are Globally Threatened (BirdLife

International 2013; Appendix 1 of Scott & Scott, 2011), including one species not yet on

the Namibian Red List.

Seven percent (30) of all the bird species found in the study area are endemic or near-

endemic, which means that these species are restricted in their distribution throughout

southern Africa (Appendix D).

Twenty-nine percent (122) of the 417 bird species recorded, are migrant for at least

some period of their life and 31% (131) are nomadic at some period during their life

(Appendix D). Movements like these in an unfamiliar habitat would increase the risk of

collisions.

It is important to note that shorter and longer-distance bird movements between any of

the wetland and other habitats listed above are possible and highly probable. This

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would be the case throughout the area for most if not all of the species. Given the

reality of climate change the environmental conditions may change dramatically,

especially under flooding, thereby increasing the risk of negative interactions with

power lines.

4.3.5 BIRD SPECIES AT RISK

Several hundreds of bird fatalities pertaining to collisions with power lines have been

recorded, however only 2 have been recorded in the study area. This lack of recorded

data is due to constraints, associated with the bushy environment, placed on the ability

of those conducting monitoring visits within the area. The incidents on record include

the following two, both on the 350 kV HVDC line in Caprivi (Figure 9):

Bateleur (juvenile): August 2012 near Kongola (17.967392S 22.5505167E)

Wattled Crane: December 2012 near the Kwando River (17.806126S 23.184278E)

The guy wires on the V-structure power lines have been linked to several fatalities.

Potential causes of bird-power line interactions, according to recent research, may

include restricted vision when flying, particularly in species which tilt their heads down

(Martin, 2007; 2011).

Owing to the high number of species found in the area only those species, the focus in

terms of assessment and mitigation will be on those species of high biological

significance.

According to Scott & Scott (2013) (see Appendix D) 34 Red-listed bird species could

potentially be affected by the proposed development, however only the 19 listed

below are considered higher risk:

Twelve Red Data raptor species are potentially at high risk in the study area.

Although generally fairly sedentary, they are also nomadic and/or migrant at

times, which renders them prone to collisions with overhead lines:

o Bateleur (E; GT: NT; breeding recorded)

o Tawny Eagle (E; breeding recorded)

o African Marsh-Harrier (E)

o Martial Eagle (E; GT: NT)

o Booted Eagle (E)

o African Fish-Eagle (V)

o Lappet-faced Vulture (V; GT: V)

o White-headed Vulture (V; GT: V)

o White-backed Vulture (NT; GT: NT; breeding recorded)

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o Pallid Harrier (NT; GT: NT)

o Hooded Vulture (GT: E)

o Secretarybird (GT: NT)

Five Red Data aquatic/semi-aquatic bird species are also regarded as being at

risk, largely due to their nomadic and/or migrant habits that render them prone

to collisions with overhead lines, namely:

o Wattled Crane (CE; GT: V)

o Rufous-bellied Heron (E)

o Saddle-billed Stork (E)

o Lesser Flamingo (V; GT: NT)

o Great White Pelican (V)

Two Red-listed terrestrial species considered at risk from the proposed

development are:

o Marabou Stork (E), a scavenger species attracted in large numbers to

refuse disposal sites and

o Southern Ground Hornbill (E; GT: V), sensitive to collisions with stay wires,

and disturbance/habitat destruction.

Fifteen other Red-listed species also occur within the wider project area. These are

regarded as lower risk. However, this does not mean that there is no risk. These species

are: These species are: Pel's Fishing-Owl (CE), Blue Crane (CE; GT: V), Yellow-billed

Oxpecker (E), Rock Pratincole (E), African Finfoot (E), Slaty Egret (E); Great Crested

Grebe (E), African Skimmer (V; GT: NT), Peregrine Falcon (NT), Black-winged Pratincole

(NT; GT: NT), Grey Crowned Crane (NT; GT: V), Red-footed Falcon (GT: NT) and Lesser

Kestrel (NT); and (in the adjoining area) Eurasian Bittern (CE), Caspian Tern (V).

4.3.6 SPECIES INVOLVED IN NEST-INDUCED FAULTS

Other important bird/power line interactions to note are those, which could result in

nest-induced faults on electrical systems. These include the Pied Crow and Red-billed

Buffalo-Weaver.

4.3.7 SENSITIVE/BREEDING TIMES FOR POWER LINE-SENSITIVE BIRD SPECIES

Although the ideal would be to earmark any months that are relatively less sensitive in

terms of the breeding season for construction activities. However, this is not practically

feasible given that this period in covers the full range of bird activities.

The sensitivities related to birds that occur in the area are listed in Table 2.

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Table 2: Sensitivities relating to birds

ENVIRONMENTAL

FEATURE

DESCRIPTION SENSITIVITY POTENTIAL

IMPACTS

34 red data listed

bird species.

Aquatic and semi-aquatic,

terrestrial species and

raptors have been

identified as high risk

species.

Resident birds may collide with

the power lines or their habitat

may be destructed, or they may

be disturbed during construction.

Migrant or nomadic birds may

collide with the power lines during

the day or at night.

Risk of collisions,

disturbance and

habitat

destruction.

Sensitive bird

habitats

The entire project area is a

sensitive habitat.

Relatively high concentrations of

birds that are sensitive to power

lines are likely to occur in or

frequent the area.

Collisions with

power lines.

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4.4 SOCIO-ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT

4.4.1 RELEVANT POPULATION CHARACTERISTICS

The source of the information below has largely been taken from the Social Impact

Assessment conducted by Urban Dynamics for the EIA conducted on the previous

transmission line route in 2011.

There is a very low population growth rate (0.2% for the years 1991-2001) in the Katima

Mulilo Rural Constituency and the life expectancy for both men and women are very

low – 39 and 36 years of age respectively. This is largely attributed to the high level of

HIV/AIDS in the Zambezi Region. The town of Katima Mulilo has had the highest

recorded HIV prevalence rate in the country for many years.

Livelihood indicators reveal that on average households of the region are significantly

poorer than the national average. The Zambezi Region currently has the third lowest

mean household income in the country. The level of unemployment has been

remarkably low for the region for a long time (only 17% by 2001) but has significantly

increased in recent years (37.6% in 2008).

An archaeological site inspection was conducted for the project area and it was

established that the area to be affected by the power line construction does not

contain any archaeological sites or any remains that would be protected under the

provisions of the National Heritage Act (see Appendix C).

4.4.2 UNREGULATED BORDER MOVEMENT

To a large extent, there is no definite boundary separating Zambia between the

Zambezi and Kwando rivers. This has given rise to unregulated movement between

Zambia and Namibia. It is common knowledge that fuel, among other commodities,

moves illegally between these territories. This sort of movement was observed near the

existing transmission line service road during a field visit.

4.4.3 LAND USE

The land uses surrounding the project area include large scale agriculture and

conservation (see Figure 8 below). The Ministry of Agriculture Water and Forestry

(MAWF) has allocated land, traversed by the proposed route, for large scale agriculture

under the banner of Green Scheme. Most of these projects rely on centre-pivot

irrigation methods. Only a small area on the southern end of the land traversed by the

proposed route has been allocated for conservation (Zambezi Forest) under the

management of the MAWF’s Directorate of Forestry.

The sensitivities relating to the socio-economic environment are contained in Table 3

below.

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Table 3: Sensitivities relating to socio-economic conditions

SOCIAL

FEATURE

DESCRIPTION SENSITIVITY POTENTIAL

IMPACTS

Health impacts High HIV/Aids prevalence in the

region. Influx of migrant workers

during construction phase.

Potential increase in HIV/AIDS

infection rate owing to risky

sexual behaviour during

construction phase in the

event of an influx of migrant

labour.

Increased

HIV/AIDS during

construction.

Unemployment Low mean annual household

income of (N$25,304.00) just more

than half the national average),

with a 37.6% unemployment rate.

The local community are in

need of employment

opportunities

Limited job

opportunities

(mostly unskilled)

Security The movement between Namibia

and Zambia near the project area

is largely unregulated, with some

illegal activity taking place.

Building materials left

unattended may be stolen.

Financial loss

and potential

project delays

Land use The proposed transmission line

route traverses land allocated for

agriculture.

The proposed development

may conflict with the current

land use of the area

Loss of arable

land

Figure 8: Land uses within the project area

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5 PUBLIC CONSULTATION

Public Consultation forms an important component of the Environmental Assessment

process. It is defined in the EIA Regulations (2012), as a “process in which potential

interested and affected parties are given an opportunity to comment on, or raise issues

relevant to, specific matters” (S1). Section 21 of the Regulations details steps to be

taken during a given public consultation process and these have been used in guiding

this process.

Communication with stakeholders about this proposed development was facilitated

through the following means:

The following is a list of key stakeholders that were identified for this project. Their

contact details were added to a stakeholders list (Appendix F):

o Representatives from various national government ministries (including

Ministry of Environment and Tourism and MAWF);

o Representatives from the Regional and Constituency Councils;

o Representatives from relevant state-owned enterprises (Roads Authority

and NORED);

o Representatives from the local community (including traditional

authorities); and

A Background Information Document (BID) was compiled that contained

essential information about the project (Appendix G). The BID was forwarded to

all stakeholders.

Notices were placed in the press, briefly explaining the development and its

locality, inviting the public to register as stakeholders (Appendix H). This same

notice stated that the proposed route (Zambezi Substation to Wenela/Sesheke

Border) replaces the previous 330 kV transmission line route (from Ngoma to

Zambezi Substation).

All stakeholders within close proximity of affected area as well as key community

representatives (e.g. traditional authorities) from the areas impacted by the

route proposed in 2011, were invited to attend a meeting held in Katima Mulilo (9

September 2013).

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The meeting held in Katima Mulilo, was well attended (Figure 9). A description of the

project was presented and opportunity given for those present to give their comments

and concerns. The representatives from those communities situated along the previous

route (from Ngoma to Zambezi Substation) were informed that the previous transmission

line route was being replaced by the proposed route (Zambezi Substation to

Wenela/Sesheke Border).Those present actively engaged once the floor was open for

discussion. The minutes for this meeting are available for review (see Appendix I).

Based on the comments received throughout the public consultation process the main

issues that the stakeholders were concerned about were the clearing of vegetation

and potential land use conflicts. These comments have been recorded in an Issues

and Responses Trail (Appendix J). These issues as well as those identified in Chapter 4

are addressed in the following chapter.

Figure 9: Meeting held at the ExCo chamber at the Zambezi Regional

Council offices in Katima Mulilo

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6 IMPACT ASSESSMENT

6.1 METHODOLOGY EMPLOYED FOR THE IMPACT ASSESSMENT

The EIA Regulations require “a description of the significance of any significant effects,

including cumulative effects, that may occur as a result of the undertaking of the

activity”. In order to determine significance each of the potential impacts identified

have been subjected to the following questions displayed graphically (steps 1 and 2 -

Figure 10) and in tabular form (Table 4) below. These questions form the methodology

for assessing the significance of the effects or impacts identified through this EIA

process:

1. The first step is to screen out (set aside) all impacts which do not fall within the

scope of this project and responsibility of NamPower;

2. The next step is to determine whether sufficient information exists to assess the

potential impacts of those that remain. If insufficient information is available to

assess (with a high degree of confidence) and recommend mitigation measures

to address a given impact further investigation will be required. However, if

sufficient information is available to assess (with a high degree of confidence)

and recommend mitigation measures to address a given impact no further

investigation will be required and the impact will be addressed in the EMP;

3. To fully understand the significance of each of the potential impacts, it is

necessary to subject each to a range of assessment criteria. The application of

these criteria, in determining the significance of potential impacts, uses a

balanced combination of duration, extent, and intensity/magnitude, modified

by probability, cumulative effects, and confidence. The definitions of each of

the criteria are contained in Table 4; and

Finally based on the answers obtained after applying steps 1-3 a decision can be made

regarding the significance of the impact based on three categories – low, medium or

high (Table 5).

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Figure 10: Screening process to determine key issues

Does the issue fall within the scope of the project and the

responsibility of NamPower?

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Table 4: Definitions of each of the criteria used to determine the significance of impacts

DESCRIPTION

NATURE Reviews the type of effect that the proposed activity will have on the relevant

component of the environment and includes “what will be affected and how?”

EXTENT Geographic area. Indicates whether the impact will be within a limited area

(on site where construction is to take place); local (limited to within 15km of the

area); regional (limited to ~100km radius); national (limited to the coastline of

Namibia); or international (extending beyond Namibia’s boarders).

DURATION Whether the impact will be temporary (during construction only), short term (1-5

years), medium term (5-10 years), long term (longer than 10 years, but will cease

after operation) or permanent.

INTENSITY Establishes whether the magnitude of the impact is destructive or innocuous

and whether or not it exceeds set standards, and is described as none (no

impact); low (where natural/ social environmental functions and processes are

negligibly affected); medium (where the environment continues to function but

in a noticeably modified manner); or high (where environmental functions and

processes are altered such that they temporarily or permanently cease and/or

exceed legal standards/requirements).

PROBABILITY Considers the likelihood of the impact occurring and is described as uncertain,

improbable (low likelihood), probable (distinct possibility), highly probable (most

likely) or definite (impact will occur regardless of prevention measures).

SIGNIFICANCE Significance is given before and after mitigation. Low if the impact will not have

an influence on the decision or require to be significantly accommodated in

the project design, Medium if the impact could have an influence on the

environment which will require modification of the project design or alternative

mitigation (the route can be used, but with deviations or mitigation) High where

it could have a “no-go” implication regardless of any possible mitigation (an

alternative route should be used).

STATUS OF THE IMPACT A statement of whether the impact is positive (a benefit), negative (a cost), or

neutral. Indicate in each case who is likely to benefit and who is likely to bear

the costs of each impact.

DEGREE OF

CONFIDENCE IN

PREDICTIONS

Is based on the availability of specialist knowledge and other information.

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SIGNIFICANCE RATING CRITERIA

LOW Where the impact will have a negligible influence on the environment and no

modifications or mitigations are necessary for the given development

description. This would be allocated to impacts of any severity/ magnitude, if

at a local scale/ extent and of temporary duration/time.

MEDIUM Where the impact could have an influence on the environment, which will

require modification of the development design and/or alternative mitigation.

This would be allocated to impacts of medium intensity/magnitude, locally to

regionally, and in the short term.

HIGH Where the impact could have a significant influence on the environment and,

in the event of a negative impact the activity(ies) causing it, should not be

permitted (i.e. there could be a ‘no-go’ implication for the development,

regardless of any possible mitigation). This would be allocated to impacts of

high magnitude, locally for longer than a month, and/or of high magnitude

regionally and beyond.

6.2 ASSESSMENT OF IMPACTS

All impacts included in the table below fall within the scope of this project and

responsibility of NamPower. By subjecting each of the potential impacts to the criteria

stipulated above, it is possible to establish the significance of each. Impacts

concerning birds and vegetation have been addressed in greater detail, in

Appendices D and E respectively, owing to the nature of these environmental

sensitivities.

A brief description of the mitigation measures is mentioned in the table below but

detailed descriptions of management actions are contained in the Generic and

Specific EMP (Appendix B1 and B2 respectively).

Impacts with a “high” significance rating (which includes those requiring additional

investigation) are discussed at the end of this section.

The process of assessing the significance of each of the possible impacts is contained in

the table below.

Table 5: Definitions of the various significance ratings

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POTENTIAL

IMPACT

STATUS/ NATURE EXTENT DURATION INTENSITY PROBABILITY DEGREE OF

CONFIDENCE

SIGNIFICANCE

PRE-

MITIGATION

MITIGATION/

ENHANCEMENT

POST-

MITIGATION

CONSTRUCTION PHASE

Loss of trees

and

associated

resources.

Destruction of timber

species along the

entire power line

route during

construction.

Site

specific

Permanent Medium Definite High Medium Fell (rather than

bulldoze) all trees in

collaboration with the

Directorate of

Forestry. Remove

high value timber to

sawmill and other

wood is to be left

along the clearing for

the local population

to utilise.

Low

Loss of soil

fertility and

productivity

and

increased

wind erosion.

Clearing of

vegetation will result

in loss of soil fertility

and productivity, as

well as increased

wind erosion

Site

specific

Long-term Medium Highly

probable

High Low Clearing of

vegetation should be

restricted to actual

area only.

Low

Degradation

of land and

consequent

encroachme

nt by certain

plant species

Bulldozing of the

cutline and injudicious

application of

herbicides will expose

soils and make it

possible for

aggressively

encroaching species

to easily establish.

Site

specific

and

local


probable

High High Fell large trees using

chain-saws or other

appropriate device

Limit bulldozing to

absolute minimum

Treat stumps with

herbicide

Low

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POTENTIAL

IMPACT


CONFIDENCE

SIGNIFICANCE

PRE-

MITIGATION

MITIGATION/

ENHANCEMENT

POST-

MITIGATION

Disturbance

to birds and

habitat

modification/

destruction.

Red-listed species are

disturbed in their

feeding/ roosting/

breeding areas –

even though the

habitat has been

man-modified. This

may result in a loss in

biodiversity.

Local Permanent Medium Probable High Medium Before construction

starts, inspect

proposed power line

route for any signs of

nests in large trees or

on the existing power

line, and avoid the

disturbance of

breeding birds.

Where possible, avoid

the unnecessary

destruction of nesting

habitat (i.e. large

trees or shrubs).

Low

Mortality of

birds due to

collisions with

power line.

Loss of Birds (whose

species are Red-

listed) due to collisions

with power line. This

may result in a loss in

biodiversity.

Local Permanent Medium Probable High Medium Proactively mark the

entire line with an

appropriate design of

bird flight diverter, in

order to increase the

visibility of the line.

Markers should be

fixed to the

conductors before

being erected and

remain affixed

permanently.

Low

Increased

HIV/ AIDS

infection rate.

The potential increase

in risky sexual

behaviour associated

with non-local

contract construction

Local Long-term High Probable Medium High Recruit as many

construction

workers from the

local population.

Offer HIV/AIDS

Medium

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POTENTIAL

IMPACT


CONFIDENCE

SIGNIFICANCE

PRE-

MITIGATION

MITIGATION/

ENHANCEMENT

POST-

MITIGATION

labours may increase

the local HIV/AIDS

infection rate.

training and

awareness as part

of workers’

induction training.

Limited job

opportunities.

Temporary creation of

unskilled jobs during

construction of

project components

and services

infrastructure.

Local Temporary Medium Highly

probable

High Low

Positive

Appoint locals to do

the unskilled labour

such as bush clearing

etc.

Medium

Positive

Loss of arable

land.

The proposed

transmission line route

will reduce the

available land,

allocated for future

state-funded

agricultural projects.

Site

specific

Permanent Medium Definite High Low to

Medium

Utilise self-supporting

pylon structure as

opposed to the

guyed V-structure.

This will allow for a

reduction in the

servitude width.

Low

OPERATION PHASE

Degradation

of land and

consequent

encroachme

nt by certain

plant species

The injudicious

application of

herbicides will expose

soils (in areas not

targeted) and make

it possible for

aggressively

encroaching species

to easily establish.

Site-

specific


probable

High High Mow the cutline

(regularly) annually, or

apply foliar spray

herbicide every 5

years.

Low

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6.3 DISCUSSION

Having screened all potential impacts and having subjected those applicable to the

criteria outlined in Table 4 the following should be noted regarding the key impacts and

their corresponding mitigation measures:

Vegetation impacts: The sensitivity rating, and consequently the intensity and

pre-mitigation impact significance ratings as well, for the vegetation in the

project area is medium, owing the moderately disturbed nature of the area and

relatively low vegetation species diversity (only 2 of the expected 4 high value

timber species were observed on site). In order to minimise the loss of existing

valuable resources, it is recommended, when clearing the proposed route, that

all trees should be felled (as opposed to bulldozed) using appropriate

mechanical devices (e.g. chainsaw). High value timber should be removed to a

sawmill, while other timber should be left alongside the clearing for the local

population to utilise.

Bulldozing (during construction) and the injudicious application of herbicides

(during construction and operation) may result in the degradation of land. This is

particularly the case with injudicious herbicide application which will affect non-

target species. The degradation of land will lead to the aggressive

encroachment by Dichrostachys cinerea shrubs and Rotheca uncinata. This

impact is therefore assigned a high significance rating. Herbicides, if applied,

should only be done through the use of foliar spray and not via soil or aerial

application, which will reduce the severity of this impact to low.

At present extensive areas (in the order of thousands of hectares) of forest, to the

west of the proposed transmission line route, has been earmarked for large scale

intensive agriculture (both state funded and private initiatives). The vegetation

loss associated with the proposed route is relatively small compared to that of

the proposed agricultural activities and hence constitutes a negligible

contribution to cumulative impacts.

Loss of arable land: The potential losses represent a small percentage of a

typical large scale farm (i.e. 1% of a 2000 ha farm for example) and hence the

pre-mitigation impact significance rating is low to medium. The utilisation of an

alternate pylon design and consequent reduction in the land losses reduces the

impact significance to low. The land that the proposed route traverses has been

earmarked by the MAWF for agriculture. The 80 m servitude over a distance of 3

km represents a minimum loss of approximately 24 ha. This loss would increase

around the V-structures owing to the outward extension of the guy wires, which

also pose a threat to harvester vehicles. In order to minimise the loss of arable

land it is recommended that self-supporting pylon structures be utilised as

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opposed to guyed V-structures. The servitude could reasonably be reduced by

14 m, which represents a minimum gain of 4.2 ha of arable land and a reduced

risk of collision by harvester vehicles.

Impacts on birds: Both bird impacts listed in the table above have been

assigned a medium pre-mitigation impact significance rating. The reason for this

is because eastern parts of the Zambezi Region boasts one of the richest

diversities of bird species in Namibia. In addition, a significant percentage of the

417 species observed within the area are either threatened (locally and/or

globally) and endemic ore near-endemic. Disturbance of breeding birds and

bird mortalities due to collisions with power lines pose a threat to biodiversity, and

hence to the ecosystem balance. Even though recorded bird mortalities

associated with power lines in the wider project area are relatively low, the

cumulative impact of negative interactions over the life span of the proposed

line is an important consideration.

The following is therefore recommended to reduce the impact significance to a

more acceptable level:

o Before construction starts, inspect proposed power line route for any

signs of nests in large trees or on the existing power line, and avoid the

disturbance of breeding birds. Where possible, avoid the unnecessary

destruction of nesting habitat (i.e. large trees or shrubs); and

o The proposed power line should be proactively marked with an



erected and remain affixed until power line is decommissioned.

The following monitoring initiatives are to be conducted by NamPower in

collaboration with and with the support of other partners.

o It is essential that the entire line is monitored in an acceptable way for

any signs of bird mortalities resulting from the construction and operation

of the line; ideally, dedicated monitoring surveys should be carried out

once a month for the first year after completion of the line; thereafter

monitoring should be continued at least every quarter and at least up to

five years after construction.

o All mortalities should be recorded and reported to the NamPower SHEW

Section for follow up.

o The effectiveness of mitigation measures should also be monitored; if

mortalities are still recorded in areas where mitigation has been fitted,

existing devices may need to be replaced, or alternative means of

mitigation may need to be investigated.

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o It is also proposed that a dedicated monitoring survey be undertaken on

the existing transmission lines near the Zambezi substation (for example

within a 10km radius of the substation); the existence of one line parallel

to the route of the proposed power line provides an ideal opportunity for

comparative pre- and post-construction monitoring. The details of the

survey should be based on the following principles:

The line patrols/monitoring visits should be dedicated to the bird

survey work only;

It is likely that the detection of bird carcasses will be very low in

these habitats and densities of human settlement, therefore over-

reliance on detecting carcasses may not provide a full

understanding of impacts. The surveys should therefore cover both

the gathering of data on bird collisions (i.e. carcass remains), as

well as observations of live bird species (presence, abundance and

movement) and their behaviour at the key focal sites in the area,

such as agricultural lands, the river and floodplains, refuse disposal

sites and sewage works;

The monitoring project should be designed and supervised by a

qualified ornithologist in order to ensure that suitable returns are

achieved from the resources invested. This supervision should

include the necessary training for the relevant persons; and

The surveys should be undertaken at least once-monthly, and on a

continuous basis for at least three years prior to revisiting the

ornithologist's recommendations.

Potential increase in HIV/AIDS infection local/regional: The impact HIV/AIDS has

had (and though reduced still has) on the Namibian population is significant.

HIV/AIDS poses a significant threat to livelihoods, health and social structures.

Even though the size and scale of this project is relatively small and hence the

potential for increased infections is relatively small each life is regarded as

infinitely valuable and thus constitutes an impact of high significance. The

mitigation measures prescribed can aid in reducing the potential significance of

this impact, however the effectiveness of these measures is uncertain and

difficult measure and as such the impact significance will remain medium.

The proposed route (the preferred alternative) runs through uninhabited and

moderately disturbed (in terms of vegetation) land and as such the shortest distance (a

straight line) was deemed the most cost effective and hence the best alternative. The

“no-go” alternative was hence the only alternative considered and owing to the need

for the proposed project and the nature of the impacts identified (sufficiently

understood and hence adequately addressable) the preferred alternative is still the

best alternative.

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All these key impacts will be addressed in the Specific EMP (Appendix B2)

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7 RECOMMENDATIONS AND CONCLUSIONS

The negative impacts with a high or medium significance rating have been identified.

Mitigation measures have been devised and discussed above (Section 6) to address

these so as to ensure that this project is rolled out in the most sustainable way possible.

All impacts discussed above will be addressed in the Generic and Specific EMP

(Appendix B1 and B2). The key impacts and their mitigation measures are summarised

below:

Vegetation impacts:

o When clearing the proposed route, all trees should be felled using

appropriate mechanical devices.

o High value timber should be removed to a sawmill, while other timber

should be left alongside the clearing for the local population to utilise.

o Bulldozing (during construction) and the injudicious application of

herbicides (during construction and operation) is strongly discouraged.

Herbicides, if applied, should only be done through the use of foliar spray

and not via soil or aerial application.

Loss of arable land: In order to reduce the servitude width and hence the loss of

arable land it is recommended to utilise self-supporting pylon structures as

opposed to guyed V-structures.

Impacts on birds:

o Before construction starts, inspect proposed power line route for any signs

of nests in large trees or on the existing power line, and avoid the

disturbance of breeding birds. Where possible, avoid the unnecessary

destruction of nesting habitat (i.e. large trees or shrubs); and

o The proposed power line should be proactively marked with an



erected and remain affixed until power line is decommissioned.

o Monitoring should be carried out as per the bird specialist’s instruction

(see Section 6.3 above).

It is concluded that most of the impacts identified during this Environmental Assessment

can be addressed through the recommended mitigation and management actions for

both the construction and operation phases of this project. Should the

recommendations included in this report and both the Generic and Specific EMP be

implemented, the significance of the impacts can be reduced to reasonably

acceptable standards and durations.

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It is therefore recommended that proposed 330 kV transmission line receive

Environmental Clearance, provided that the recommendations above and the EMPs

are implemented.

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8 REFERENCES

Enviro Dynamics, 2012. Route Evaluation and Environmental Impact Report for the the

Proposed 330 kV Transmission Line From Ngoma to Katima Mulilo, Windhoek:

Unpublished Report.

Mendelsohn, J., Jarvis, A., Roberts, C. & Robertson, T., 2009. Atlas of Namibia. 3rd ed.

Cape Town: Sunbird Publishers.

Mendelsohn, J. & Roberts, C., 1997. An Environmental Profile and Atlas of Caprivi.

Windhoek: Directorate of Environmental Affairs.

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT FOR THE PROPOSED ... · This is a South African Power Pool (SAPP) initiative. A previous Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) was conducted (June

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