Republic of Albania Ministry of Public Works and Transport ...

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E4224v2

Republic of Albania

Ministry of Public Works and Transport

Water Project Implementation Unit

Albania Water Sector Investment Project PHRD Grant No TF093096-AL

Consultant Services for Preparation of the Environmental Impact Assessment and Environmental

Management Plan

Environmental Impact Assessment Report

Draft for consultation May 2013

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SUMMARY

SUMMARY ...................................................................................................................................................... 2

LIST OF FIGURES ......................................................................................................................................... 5

1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ....................................................................................................................... 8

Policy, legislation and administrative framework ............................................................................................. 8

Objectives and summary description of the proposed project ........................................................................... 8

Impacts of Project Component 1 - Priority Water Supply Investments......................................................... 9

Socio-economic environment .................................................................................................................... 9

Summary of the Main Environmental impacts ........................................................................................ 10

Analysis of project alternatives ................................................................................................................ 14

Conclusions of the draft EIA report in respect to water supply component ............................................ 14

Project Component 2: Wastewater Investments .............................................................................................. 15

Description of the Project Area................................................................................................................ 16

Expected Impacts of the Wastewater Component ................................................................................... 16

Analysis of alternatives and their impact on the environment ................................................................. 17

Conclusions of the EIA in respect to wastewater component .................................................................. 17

2 POLICY, LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK ............................................................ 18

2.1 The legal and institutional framework .................................................................................................. 18

2.1.1 General legislation on the Environment .................................................................................... 18

2.1.2 Legislation on Water Management ............................................................................................ 19

2.1.3 Legislation on Environmental Impact assessment and Environmental Permitting ................... 20

2.1.4 INSTITUTIONAL ASPECTS FOR WATER PROTECTION AND ADMINISTRATION .... 21

2.1.5 World Bank EIA Requirements and applicable OPs. ................................................................ 22

3 OBJECTIVES AND SUMMARY DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED PROJECT ......................... 25

3.1 Previous World Bank projects .............................................................................................................. 25

3.2 The Present Project ............................................................................................................................... 25

3.3 Studies funded under the present project .............................................................................................. 26

3.4 The proposed infrastructures................................................................................................................. 27

3.4.1 Project Component 1 - Priority Water Supply Investments....................................................... 27

3.4.2 Project Component 2 - Wastewater Investments ....................................................................... 27

4 PROJECT COMPONENT 1- PRIORITY WATER SUPPLY INVESTMENTS (WELLFIELDS,

PIPELINE, BULK RESERVOIRS)................................................................................................................. 29

4.1 Description of Project Component 1- Priority water supply ................................................................ 29

4.1.1 The Fushe Milot Wellfield ......................................................................................................... 29

4.1.2 The Pumping Station.................................................................................................................. 30

4.1.3 The Main Transmission Pipeline ............................................................................................... 32

4.1.4 The Bulk reservoirs .................................................................................................................... 32

4.2 The socio-economic context ................................................................................................................. 34

4.2.1 Water demand in the Durres region ........................................................................................... 35

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4.2.2 Water Demand in the Rural Area............................................................................................... 37

4.2.3 Social impact of the project ....................................................................................................... 38

5 RISK ANALYSIS AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS .................................................................... 40

5.1 Water resources ..................................................................................................................................... 40

5.1.1 Hydrology .................................................................................................................................. 40

5.1.2 Aquifer and Groundwater .......................................................................................................... 44

5.1.3 The expected impacts during the construction phase ................................................................ 51

5.1.4 The expected impacts during the project’s life .......................................................................... 51

5.1.5 The investigations considered as necessary before project implementation ............................. 52

5.2 Geological and soil system ................................................................................................................... 52

5.2.1 Geology and lithology................................................................................................................ 52

5.2.2 Soil pollution and solid wastes .................................................................................................. 53


5.2.4 The expected impacts during the project’s groundwater extraction phase ................................ 54

5.3 Natural habitats ..................................................................................................................................... 54

5.3.1 The investigations considered necessary before project implementation .................................. 56



5.4 Air quality ............................................................................................................................................. 60

5.4.1 Sources of atmospheric pollution and their potential impact on the project area. ..................... 60

5.4.2 The investigations considered as necessary before project implementation ............................. 61



5.5 Climate change...................................................................................................................................... 62

5.5.1 Rainfall ....................................................................................................................................... 62

5.5.2 Sea Level Rise and Coastal Erosion .......................................................................................... 64

5.5.3 The investigations considered as necessary before project implementation. ............................ 65



5.6 Physical cultural resources .................................................................................................................... 67

5.6.1 Archaeological areas and historical buildings ........................................................................... 67

5.6.2 General Pre-Construction Impacts and Mitigation Measures .................................................... 67

5.6.3 General Construction Impacts and Mitigation Measures ........................................................... 68

5.6.4 Assumptions and Limitations .................................................................................................... 68

5.6.5 Conclusions, Recommendations and Residual Impacts ............................................................. 68


5.7 Cumulative and Long Term Impacts .................................................................................................... 69

5.8 Analysis of alternatives and their impact on the environment .............................................................. 69

5.8.1 No-project option ....................................................................................................................... 69

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5.8.2 Alternative sources of water supply ........................................................................................... 70

5.9 Alternatives for the routing of the pipeline and the location of pumping stations. .............................. 73

5.10 Conclusions of the EIA ......................................................................................................................... 78

5.10.1 Impacts ....................................................................................................................................... 78

5.10.2 Triggering of World Bank’s OPs ............................................................................................... 79

6 PROJECT COMPONENT 2- WASTEWATER INVESTMENTS ......................................................... 83

6.1 The need for the project ........................................................................................................................ 84

6.2 Description of the Wastewater component ........................................................................................... 84

6.3 Description of the works ....................................................................................................................... 85

6.4 Description of the Project area .............................................................................................................. 86

6.5 Topography ........................................................................................................................................... 88

6.6 Hydrology and Drainage ....................................................................................................................... 89

6.7 Risk analysis and environmental impacts ............................................................................................. 90

6.7.1 Water resources .......................................................................................................................... 90

6.7.2 Geological and soil system ........................................................................................................ 90

6.7.3 Natural habitats .......................................................................................................................... 91

6.7.4 Air quality .................................................................................................................................. 91

6.7.5 Physical cultural resources ......................................................................................................... 91

6.7.6 Socio-economic environment .................................................................................................... 91

6.8 Analysis of alternatives and their impact on the environment .............................................................. 91

6.8.1 No project Option ...................................................................................................................... 91

6.8.2 Alternatives for the routing of the mains and the location of pumping stations. ....................... 92

6.9 Conclusions of the EIA ......................................................................................................................... 92

6.10 Triggering of World Bank’s OPs .......................................................................................................... 92

7 Public disclosure ...................................................................................................................................... 94

8 Environmental Mitigation Plan ................................................................................................................ 94

9 Environmental Monitoring Plan .............................................................................................................. 94

ANNEX 1 – DESCRIPTION OF HYDROLOGY IN THE PROJECT AREA ............................................. 95

ANNEX 2 DATA SOURCES ....................................................................................................................... 103

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LIST OF FIGURES

FIGURE 1 MAP OF DURRES SUPPLY ZONES & PROJECT AREA ................................................ 11

FIGURE 2 PROPOSED NEW WELLFIELD ............................................................................................ 31

FIGURE 3- ROUTE OF PROPOSED MAIN TRANSMISSION PIPELINE FROM NEW PUMPING

STATION TO DURRES ............................................................................................................................... 33

FIGURE 4- ROUTE OF PROPOSED MAIN TRANSMISSION PIPELINE FROM WELLSFIELD

TO PUMPING STATION ............................................................................................................................. 34

FIGURE 5 PROJECTED DEVELOPMENTS OF DURRES TO 2027 ................................................... 35

FIGURE 6- PROJECTED WATER DEFICIT FOR DURRES CITY ..................................................... 36

FIGURE 7 FUSHE KUQE BASIN ............................................................................................................... 41

FIGURE 8 RIVER MATI AND ISHMI BASINS ....................................................................................... 42

FIGURE 9 Hydrogeological Regions of Fushe Kuqe Basin ....................................................................... 50

FIGURE 10 IMPORTANT BIRD AREAS (PATOKU LAGOON AND LALZI BAY) ......................... 56

FIGURE 11 PROTECTED AREAS IN PROJECT AREA ....................................................................... 58

FIGURE 12 EXISTING ROADS IN THE ISHMI HILLS AT PIPLEINE CROSSING ........................ 59

FIGURE 13 - VARIATION OF PREDICTIONS IN CLIMATE CHANGE MODELS-RAINFALL

2020-2039 ........................................................................................................................................................ 63

FIGURE 14 VARIATION OF PREDICTIONS IN CLIMATE CHANGE MODELS-RAINFALL

2040-2059 ........................................................................................................................................................ 63

FIGURE 15 SEA LEVEL RISE PROJECTIONS IN THE MEDITERRENEAN SEA ......................... 65

FIGURE 16 WATER SUPPLY ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED BY IC CONSULENTEN ............. 72

FIGURE 17 - VARIANT 1 - ROUTES OF PIPELINE AND LOCATION OF PUMP STATION ....... 74

FIGURE 18 VARIANT 2 - ROUTES OF PIPELINE AND LOCATION OF PUMP STATION ......... 75

FIGURE 19 – MAP OF PROJECT AREA FOR COMPONENT 2 (WASTEWATER

INVESTMENTS) ........................................................................................................................................... 84

FIGURE 20 – SATELLITE IMAGE OF PROJECT AREA FOR COMPONENT 2 (WASTEWATER

INVESTMENTS) ........................................................................................................................................... 85

FIGURE 21 -CLOSE UP OF THE AREA WHERE THE MAINS WILL RUN ALONG THE BEACH

.......................................................................................................................................................................... 87

FIGURE 22 -SATELLITE IMAGE OF THE SITE OF SUB-COMPONENT 2 ..................................... 88

FIGURE 23 RIVER MATI AND ISHMI BASINS .................................................................................... 96

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ACRONYMS

AAS Albanian Archeological Service

AIEC Average Incremental Economic Cost

ALL Albanian Lek

BP Bank Policy

CV Curriculum Vitae

DDWW Durres District Water Works

DN Diameter Nominal

DTEM Digital Terrain Elevation Model

DWSRP Durres Water Supply Rehabilitation Project

DWU Durres Water Utility

EC European Commission

EIB European Investment Bank

EOI Expression of Interest

EU European Union

EUR Euro

FIDIC International Federation of Consulting Engineers

GCM Global Circulation Model

GDEM Geo-referenced Digital Elevation Model

GDWSS General Directorate of Water Supply and Sewerage

GEF Global Environment Facility

GIS Geographical Information System

GPS Global Positioning System

GRP Glass Fiber Reinforced Pipes

IDA International Development Association

km2 Square kilometers

LRMC Long Run Marginal Cost

m3/sec Cubic meters per second

Mamsl Meters above mean sea level

Masl Meters above sea level

Mbgl Meters below ground level

METI Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry

MPWT Ministry of Public Works and Telecommunications

MWWP

NAC

Municipal Water and Wastewater Project

National Archaeological Council NASA National Aeronautics and Space Administration

NGO Non Governmental Organization

NPV Net Present Value

NRW Non-Revenue Water

O&M Operation and Maintenance

OP Operational Procedures

PAD Project Appraisal Document

PAP Project Affected Persons

PID Project Information Document

PDO Project Development Objectives

PFS Pre-Feasibility Study

PIU Project Implementation Unit

PV Present Value

QA Quality Assessment

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QC Quality Control

RAP Resettlement Action Plan

REA Regional Environmental Agency

RFP Request for Proposals

RTA Rapid Technical Assessment

SLR Sea Level Rise

TDS Total Dissolved Solids

TOR Terms of Reference

UTM Universal Trans Mercator

WGS World Geodetic System

WRA Water Regulatory Agency

WRM Water Resources Management

WSIP Water Supply Investment Project

WSS Water Supply System

WSURP Water Supply Urban Rehabilitation Project

% Percent

◦C Degrees Celsius

g/l Micrograms per liter

Mg/l Milligrams per liter

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1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

This Environmental Impact Assessment Report has been prepared on behalf of the Ministry of Public Works

and Transport (MPWT) as foreseen in the TOR. It presents the state of the environment in the condition ex-

ante the implementation of the project, and the expected impacts of the project on the environment - in terms

of impact on soil, water, air, vegetation, natural habitats - as well as the social consequences of these same

impacts. It also compares the different project alternatives.

Policy, legislation and administrative framework

The National Law of Albania sets out the rules and modalities for carrying out an EIA. The present report

follows the guidelines of World Bank Operational Policy (OP) 4.01 and Albanian legislation. The other OPs

which have been taken into account are: OP 4.04 Natural Habitats; OP 4.11 Physical Cultural Resources; OP

4.12 Involuntary Resettlement; OP 4.37 Dams; OP 4.36 Forests; OP 7.50 Projects in International Waters;

OP 7.60 Projects in Disputed Areas. Details of legislation and applicable procedures above are provided in

Section 2 of the report.

Objectives and summary description of the proposed project

The Project Development Objectives (PDO) are:

(i) to improve the quality of water services in the Durres Utility Service Area;

(ii) to improve access to wastewater services and transmission of wastewater to treatment in critical parts

of the Service Area; and

(iii) to improve operational and financial performance of Durres Water Utility.

As the second largest city of Albania, with a population that swells to twice its 200,000 residents during the

summer months, Durres was the Government’s priority location for piloting its institutional and policy

reform agenda, coupled with critical investment financing.

The project will be implemented by a Project Management Unit (PMU) established at the Ministry of Public

Works and Transport (MPWT). The following project components are assessed in the present study:

Component 1 - Priority Water Supply Investments. This component consists of:

The development of a new wellfield

At initial phase of the project, two wellfield alternatives have been considered. These two

alternatives are the existing Fushe Kuqe wellfield area and Fushe Milot wellfield area (See Figure 1).

Hydrogeological studies performed during the project show that the existing Fushe Kuqe wellfield

may have already reached its maximum yield, and therefore cannot provide additional amounts of

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water. Additional groundwater extraction at this location will likely cause a decrease in groundwater

level that would lead to seawater intrusion into the groundwater system. On the other hand, Fushe

Milot wellfield is found to be the feasible and is the preferred option. Discussion of alternatives is

presented in Section 5.9 of this Report. The location of proposed Fushe-Milot wellfield is shown in

Figure 1. The proposed wellfield, which would be rehabilitated, will consist of five extraction wells

as well as one monitoring well. Two of the new production wells will be adjacent to the existing

wells that are no longer operational (due to closure of industrial facility they served), while the others

will be located up to 50 meters from two other existing wells (due to land ownership issues or

physical constraints). More details on this is to be found in section 4.1 of this Report.

A pump station

As it is given in Figure 1, two alternative pipe routings were proposed by COWI for transmission

main, with two variants. Variant 2, which is located adjacent to the existing polder pump station –

Hydrovore - is chosen as the pump station area. A discussion of these alternatives is provided in

section 5.9 of this Report.

A transmission main (pipeline)

The proposed route for the transmission main alternatives are shown in Figure 1. In terms of route

selection methodology, mainly existing roads are selected as pipeline route in order to minimize

environmental impacts. In this respect, the pipeline route follows almost entirely existing roads,

leading from the well field to Durres, with a branch off at Porto Romano. A discussion of route

alternatives is provided in section 5.9 of this Report.

Bulk water reservoirs

Bulk water reservoirs are planned to supply the villages along Fushe Kruje main pipeline route and

Fushe Kuqe main pipeline route.

Component 2: Wastewater Investments

This component will finance priority wastewater investments in Durres aimed at enhancing the existing

sewerage network’s capacity to handle the increased water supply in an environmentally and socially

sustainable manner, including upgrading of critical parts of the sewerage network and provision of high-

pressure sewer cleaning equipment.

Impacts of Project Component 1 - Priority Water Supply Investments

Socio-economic environment

The project responds to the urgent need to satisfy water demand in Durres and also improves access to

potable water for the villages along the Fushe Kuqe main pipeline route. A separate study of the social

impact of the project has been prepared by DRN-ACER entitled “Durres Water pipeline Resettlement

Action Plan and Social Assessment” – with the draft final analysis produced in January 2012. In addition to

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this study, a specific study is performed for resettlement and land acquisition requirement of the Project. In

that respect a study report named “Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) and Resettlement Policy Framework

(RPF)” was prepared by Government of Albania and cleared by the World Bank in January 2013, in

compliance with the Albanian Law on Land Acquisition and the World Bank’s OP 4.1.2. The RAP reveals

that the only affected parties from land acquisition, for the construction of the new Water Pipeline, are the

private land owners. A total of 28 land owners are identified in locations where a small portion of their land

will need to be expropriated according to the Albanian legislation in force. Land acquisition affects 34 plots

in four administrative units, in total 3487m2: (i.) Milot Commune – 6 land owners; (ii) Fushe Kuqe

Commune – 3 land owners; (iii) Ishem Commune – 18 land owners; (iv) Sukth Municipality – 1 land owner.

The estimated total cost of land compensation for the proposed project is calculated to the amount of

4,246,330.00 ALL (approximately US$ 40,442) for a total of land surface of 3487m2. Details of socio-

economic impacts are available in separate studies, as indicated above.

Summary of the Main Environmental impacts

This section outlines only the main impacts of the proposed Project. More comprehensive analysis is

presented in sections 5 and 6 of this Report.

Water resources

Potential impact of the project is expected on groundwater resources. There are specific risks associated with

water extraction from any aquifer, which may produce impacts that need to be prevented, or limited, through

mitigation measures, and adequately monitored.

The major potential risks over groundwater sources are as follows:

Overexploitation of the groundwater resource can cause a decrease in groundwater level, and a risk

of seawater intrusion. In the area of Fushe Kuqe plain, the phenomenon of seawater intrusion is

already an evident risk. The proposed location of the wellfield in Fushe Milot is further east of the

Adriatic coast and is likely to be of a lower risk of sea water intrusion. Over exploitation of the well-

field could lower the water table and adversely affect the production rate of the existing wells used to

locally irrigate some agricultural land downstream from the Project area, and/or could damage the

local vegetation and eco-systems. This situation could further have negative impact on water quality

in the local rivers and wells, cause changes in local aquatic ecosystems and have other negative

effects. It is worth noting that the proposed project aims to rehabilitate an existing wellfield (Fushe

Milot) to its original production level, following closure of the existing production wells in early

1990. During its prior operation, no observable phenomenon, such as those described above, were

detected. As a further measure, however, and in order to safeguard the aquifer, periodic monitoring

of water quality and impacts, if any, of extraction on areas surrounding the production wells during

construction and operation of the Fushe Milot Wellfield has been included in the project design and

EMP. If water extraction is managed carefully and responsibly, any potential negative effects can be

mitigated and/or completely avoided.

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FIGURE 1 MAP OF DURRES SUPPLY ZONES & PROJECT AREA

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The old, closed mines and landfills situated at the zone of contribution (up-gradient) of

rehabilitated wellfield in the catchment area of Mati River, which is the main recharge

source of Fushe Milot alluvial aquifer, poses the risk of contaminating the aquifer. Site visits

were carried out to the landfills and confirmed to be closed under an EU-financed hotspot

closure program. Furthermore, according to a specific hydrogeological study performed in

the scope of the Project, the quality monitoring data testify that the groundwater quality has

not suffered significant changes since the start of water extraction in the Fushe Kuqe and

Fushe Milot alluvial aquifer, in early 1960s. Several sample water quality tests carried out

by the Albanian Geological Survey and Institute of Public Health confirm that all water

quality parameters within the Fushe Milot wellfield area are within acceptable limits.

Soils and Geo-hazards

Main project impact on soils is expected during pipeline construction. Land preparations for

construction corridor, trenching, pipeline installation and re-instatement activities are main impact

sources. Permanent above ground facilities are also causes of soil loss. In order to minimize these

impacts, the existing roads will be used as pipeline routes. In addition to mitigation, surface soil

(vegetable soil) will be separately stored and not mixed with excavated materials. Additionally,

effective reinstatement techniques including erosion control will be used. These mitigations will be

addressed in the EMP.

During the operation of the project, subsidence (that is, of sinkholes developing as a consequence of

the alteration of the level and pressure of the underground water table) is the only risk in terms of

geo-hazard. Existing well sites show that such impact is not observed in the project area. Therefore,

the potential subsidence problem is not expected in the rehabilitated wellfield area. However, the

risk should be monitored. In this respect, especially in the initial years of exploitation of the

rehabilitated wellfield, careful monitoring of potential impacts shall be undertaken; details are

provided in the EMP report.

Natural habitats

Major units of the project including underground wells, pumping station and bulk reservoirs are

located on public lands surrounded with agricultural fields and rural developments, none of which

are classified as natural habitats or protected areas. The transmission main is routed alongside

existing paved roads or between the roads and the agricultural fields. There are two protected areas

located in the project area of the transmission main. These areas are “Rruskull” in Durres and

“Patok-Fushekuge-Ishem” in Kurbin. These areas, at the time of classification, were comprised of

marshes and agricultural fields, and both areas have the same protection category of IV. The

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existing level of protection has been enacted in 1960s, and various developments have taken place

since that time. The land, as observed during project preparation in 2012 and 2013, is heavily

modified by human impact in what can now be described as a peri-urban area. The section of the

transmission main that traverses Patok-Fushekuge-Ishem protection area is of an approximate

distance of 9,000 meters. In this section, a local road in agricultural fields is selected as a

transmission route. Therefore, there will be no direct impact to the marshes during the construction.

Additionally, the hydrogeological study shows that the aquifer used as water source has no

connection to marshes. According to environmental legislation of Albania, there is no limitation for

transmission main construction in the agricultural fields.

Air quality and noise

A temporary impact on air quality is expected during construction period of the project. Dust and

exhaust emissions are the major impact sources for air quality in this period. These emissions are

originated by movement of vehicles along construction corridor, soil stripping, trench excavation,

back-filling and reinstatement during the construction. No impact on air quality is expected during

operational phase. Impact on noise will be temporary during construction activities. Site

preparedness and construction of the pipeline will include the following noise-generating activities:

Route passage preparation; soil stripping; trenching; pipe stringing, welding and laying; and

backfilling. Generally, these activities involve the use of a mobile plant along the spread. During the

operation phase there will only be a minor impact (noise) for some point sources, namely the

pumping station and pumps of wells. Noise impacts are related to point sources such as electricity

cabs, pumps site, wellfields and they will be limited to the proximity of these sites.

Climate change

Although the present knowledge about climate change is not such as to allow for precise predictions

at the local scale and over the medium term time horizon, climate change should be factored in the

present evaluation since it may affect adversely the quantity and quality of water resources. In

practical terms, this can be done by factoring climate change in a hydrological model for the

management of the well field, coupled with adequate monitoring of levels and quality of

underground water table. This will allow prediction of the sensitivity of the well field to the effects

of climate change, and early warning to decision makers so that extraction can be adapted if need be

in order to prevent negative effects (seawater intrusion, concentration of pollutants).

Physical cultural resources

The Project is unlikely to have an impact on Physical cultural resources, as no known cultural

resources are impacted upon by the pipeline, the pumping station and reservoirs. Nevertheless, a

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protocol has been developed as part of the EMP report to set out the procedure to be followed in

case of findings during the construction phase.

Cumulative impacts

The risks of excessive lowering of the underground water table using inadequate or inappropriate

operating practices; resulting seawater intrusion; and pollution of the underground water table from

upstream industrial facilities, if these activities are re-started at certain point in future – could have a

cumulative effect. However, application of relevant mitigation measures in respect to water

extraction, and due diligence in respect to currently closed industrial facilities will prevent this

situation from occurring.

The impact of climate change is liable to further exacerbate these risks, through an intensification of

extreme events and periodical fall in the recharging of the underground water table. The existing

body of knowledge in this respect is rather limited, and more research of climate change related

impacts is necessary in future years.

Analysis of project alternatives

Several alternative options were reviewed: “no project”; two wellfield locations; two transmission

main routes; and two locations for the pumping station. In addition, consideration was given to the

impact of a water demand management program, such as the universal metering program under the

proposed project. However, even with a substantial reduction of waste and losses, a water demand

management program could not sufficiently reduce losses to the point that the deficit of 30,000

m3/day could be alleviated. Details of this are shown in section 5.8 and 5.9 of this Report. Taking

into account the above considerations, the final selection has been to use Fushe Milot Wellfield, the

western transmission route and Hydrovore location for the pumping station.

Conclusions of the draft EIA report in respect to water supply component

Impacts

The project will have a definite beneficial impact on the socio economic conditions in Durres and in

the villages of communes Thumana, Fushe Kuqe, Ishem, Manza, Katund i Ri, Xhafzotaj, Sukth,

Rashbull. However, the project might have a limited negative impact on the rural populations if

their wells should be affected; this risk shall be offset by appropriate monitoring and management

of the wellfield.

The main risks of the project regarding i) excessive use of the water aquifer, ii) intrusion of

seawater; and iii) pollution from the infiltration of surface waters, are minimized by selection of a

suitable site as a result of a detailed hydrogeological study. Additionally, an effective monitoring

15

program has been suggested for the management of groundwater table and water quality. Durres

Water Utility will be supported under the project in designing and implementing a water demand

management program that will include universal metering to better control and monitor water use

and reduce wastage and theft, as well as a Performance Improvement Plan to monitor and reduce

technical and managerial non-revenue water losses.

The project’s impact on soils is expected to be minor. The risk of subsidence, cannot be ruled out

entirely, even though the experience of similar projects in the area has not produced such effects.

Based on past experience with the wellfield, however, the risk of subsidence is considered very

minor. No evidence has arisen in the course of preparing this report that suggests any incidence of

subsidence during the 30 year period of prior operation. Therefore, if it were to occur it would most

likely be localized and limited and occur during the initial production phase for which the

contractor would be responsible for undertaking remedies. Appropriate monitoring at the beginning

of the exploitation of the new wellfield is recommended and has been provisioned under the

construction contract.

The project will have negligible impacts on air quality, noise, and natural habitats.

The project will have a minor impact in terms of involuntary resettlement. This issue is dealt with in

the Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) and Resettlement Policy Framework (RPF), which provide

additional information.

Project Component 2: Wastewater Investments

This component will finance priority wastewater investments in Durres aimed at enhancing the

existing sewerage network’s capacity to handle the increased water supply in an environmentally

and socially sustainable manner, including upgrading of critical parts of the sewerage network and

provision of high-powered sewer cleaning equipment.

The works consist of the rehabilitation of an existing sewage system in the prime tourism area of

Durres (which is declared a wastewater priority of the Durres Water Utility), and connection of the

said network with the existing, recently completed Wastewater Treatment Plant, which is capable

of receiving the complete load from this development. This project component will replace the

existing decrepit wastewater network built in 1970s, which is in a very bad state of repair, where

two out of six pumping stations do not function, and some of the manholes are damaged and

without covers.

The new wastewater network (primary, secondary and tertiary) that will replace the existing one,

will serve an area approximately 6 km long and 600 m wide, which is currently home to

16

approximately 15 thousand residents. The improvement in wastewater collection and treatment,

over and above replacing the old network will also cater for the tourism facilities which have been

developed in the area (Hotels, high rise apartment blocks) and the resulting influx of tourists during

the peak summer season (June-July-August) which brings additional load of up to 95,000

capita/day.

Description of the Project Area

The project area for subcomponent 2 (wastewater network) is a built up area facing the beach,

where the network runs along existing roads, replacing the old dilapidated one. Only for a tract of

3km does the new piping run along the upper limit of the beach (alongside the main road), which is

used for recreational purposes and retains no features as a natural habitat. From the northern limit of

the area being serviced, the route runs along existing roads and through a suburb (light service

industry, residential) to reach the existing Wastewater Treatment Plant. The location of various

investments related to wastewater component are shown in FIGURE 19 – MAP OF PROJECT AREA

FOR COMPONENT 2 (WASTEWATER INVESTMENTS) in section 6.2 -“Description of the Wastewater

component “of this report.

Expected Impacts of the Wastewater Component

The project has no anticipated adverse impacts on natural habitats or forests, as none exist on site.

Regarding water resources, the project will have beneficial impacts only, as its implementation will

considerably reduce the amount of untreated wastewater polluting the surface and underground

water resources.

The project will have no negative impact on soils. The project will produce very limited air

pollution during the construction phase, due to the use of machinery for excavation and vehicles

servicing the site. This will take place within residential and commercial areas; however pollution

levels will remain within acceptable limits as for extraordinary maintenance works. Air pollution

levels will be abated by applying the mitigation measures as a part of good construction practice.

No negative impact on air quality is expected during the project’s operational phase.

The project will produce noise during the construction phase, due to the use of machinery for

excavation and vehicles servicing the site. This will take place within residential and commercial

areas; however noise levels will remain within acceptable limits as for extraordinary maintenance

works. Noise levels will be abated by applying appropriate prescriptions in the BOQ, as detailed in

the EMP report. No negative impact on noise is expected during the project’s operational phase.

Physical cultural resources

17

As the wastewater mains will be running along existing roads, without requiring the excavation of

new areas or affecting existing buildings, no impact with Physical cultural resources is foreseen in

either the construction or the exploitation phase.

Socio-economic environment

The Project brings about an improvement in quality of life, public health, and in the general quality

of the environment, and improves the area’s value as a tourism attraction. Disruption of the

recreational use of the beach will be limited during the construction phase only.

Positive impacts of the Project

The project will produce beneficial impacts on water resources (abating pollution), air (elimination

odors from leakage and uncovered manholes), on international waters (by reducing wastewater

pollution into the Adriatic Sea) on quality of life and public health, and on the economy by

enhancing the value as a tourism attraction, of the area being serviced

Analysis of alternatives and their impact on the environment

The “no project-option” would mean leaving wastewater system in a decrepit state; leakage of

wastewater would continue, and untreated wastewater would seep into the soil and the water table,

and ultimately the Adriatic Sea. There would be no advantages of any kind in this option.

There are no practical alternatives to replacing the network within this built-up environment.

Conclusions of the EIA in respect to wastewater component

There shall be no negative environmental impacts from the implementation of this project

component. The very limited negative impacts in the construction phase are not different from those

of any large-scale maintenance operation. No negative impacts are to be expected in the operational

phase, provided that ordinary maintenance of the network and the pumping stations is exercised.

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2 POLICY, LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK

The Republic of Albania has adopted a body of environmental laws and regulations which cover the

issues of environmental protection and management, water management including groundwater

extraction, public participation in environmentally-related matters, wastewater disposal,

management of surface waters and marine environment. Albania has made considerable progress

towards its objective of aligning to EU legislation, in view of Albania’s goal of joining the

European Union.

Albania is also a signatory to several international agreements on the environment, with which the

project shall comply. These developments resulted in a complex set of rules and regulations that are

applicable to the present Project.

This section of the Report briefly presents the relevant legislation and norms which have been

considered during Project preparation.

2.1 The legal and institutional framework Approved in 1998, the Albanian Constitution establishes the general framework for the protection

of environment, and endorses the principles of sustainable development and sustainable

management of natural resources, as well as the public’s right to freedom of information on the

environment.

2.1.1 General legislation on the Environment

The main legislation is consisting of:

Fundamental Law on Environmental Protection with related laws and by-laws;

Legislation on Water Management

Legislation on EIA and Environmental Permit

Legislation dealing with the public information and consultation

Fundamental Law on Environmental Protection and Related Legislation

The fundamental law on the environment is Law No. 10431 of 9.6.2011, “On Environmental

Protection”, which has the purpose of aligning the Albanian environmental laws with EU

environmental legislation, and in particular with the Directive 2004/35/KE of the European

Parliament and Council, dated 21 April 2004 on environmental liability, prevention and

rehabilitation of damage on environment. The Law has come into force in January 2013. The Law

elevates the obligation for environmental protection to a higher level from the laws related to this

field enacted in period 1993-2002. The Law specifies protection and improvement of environment,

prevention or reduction of risk for human health, prevention of human life risks, improvement of

life quality, and provisions of means for Albania’s sustainable development. The Law is giving

references to water resource protection, water quality norms and standards, air and soil protection

etc. It also deal with goals and principles of EIA, EIA relation to technical designs and declares the

National Environmental Agency (NEA) as the competent authority for definition of conditions

related to environmental permits. This Law is also underlining the obligation of any state or private

entity to invite public and other interested parties to participate at activities related to environmental

protection.

Other relevant pieces of legislation:

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Law No. 10463, of 22.9.2011, “On Integrated Management of Wastes”, which gives rules and

framework for environmental protection caused from waste contamination.

Law No. 8897, of 16.5.2002 “On Protection of Air from Pollution”, which details measures for

prevention from air pollution.

Law No. 8905, of 2002, “On Protection of Marine Environment from Pollution and Damage”,

which incorporates into the Albanian national legislation the obligations that result from her joining

the Convention for the Protection of Mediterranean Sea and its Protocols.

Law No. 8364, of 2.7.1998 “On Hazardous Substances and Waste”, which refers to pollution

control in respect to hazardous substances generation and solid and wastewater management.

Law No. 9587, of 20.7.2006, “On Biodiversity Protection”, which provides for the protection of

animal and plant species, and contributes towards the approximation of national environmental law

to EU norms.

Law No. 9868, of 4.2.2008, “Amendments to Regulations of the Law on Protected Areas, No

8906, dated in 6.6.2002”, that amends previous laws and by-laws regarding protected areas, in

compliance with IUCN categories and structure of protected areas. Among others it prescribes the

integration of buffer zones in the peripheral parts of protected areas, gives the land-use in any

subcategory of protected areas as well as defines the prohibited activities in any sub-zones of

protected areas.

2.1.2 Legislation on Water Management

The basic Law on water management is Law No. 111 of 15.11.2012, on “Integrated Management

of Water Resources”, which focusses on protection of water sources, distribution and efficient

administration of water and defines the institutional framework for administration and management

of waters for community benefits and socio-economical interest of the country. This Law is referred

to in the Law on Environmental Protection of 2011, and the Law Environmental Permit (No. 10448

of 2011), in part related to environmental permit procedures for water extraction and discharge

related projects. The Law describes the hygienic-sanitary areas for protection of water resources

defined for water production, which are considered as Protected Areas, provides spatial structure of

such areas (composed of First Protected Area, Closed Protected Area and Remote Protected Area),

including lists of prohibited activities for each of them. The Law defines the Water Basin Agency

as the responsible institution for monitoring of surface and groundwater bodies to be used for

drinking water supply.

Law No. 8102, of 28.3.2008, on “Regulatory Framework for Water Supply, Removal and

Treatment of Waste Waters”, specifies the establishment of a regulatory framework and an

independent regulatory entity for water supply and removal or treatment of polluted waters. The

Law specifies the functions, competences, procedures and standards, under which the Regulatory

Entity will operate.

Law No. 9115, of 27.4.2003, on “Environmental Treatment of Polluted Waters” addresses the

treatment of polluted industrial and urban waters. The Law establishes a separate license system on

requirements, terms and conditions for construction sites of plants and installations for water

purification operations. The purpose of this Law is to protect the environment and human health

from the negative impact of polluted waters by setting rules for environmental treatment of such

waters and defining binding obligations upon subjects who discharge polluted waters in the

environment. In this regard, and following the provisions of this Law, the Council of Ministers

approved the Decision (DCM) No. 177, of 31.3.2005, on “Permitted norms for liquid discharges

20

and criteria for environmental zoning of rivers or sea waters”, which defines measurable and

controlled discharges coming from the water treatment plant.

Water resources were also regulated by Law No. 8093, of 21.3.1996, “Law on Water Resources”,

which established the National Water Council (NWC) and its Technical Secretariat. The Law

regulates the conservation, development and utilization of water reserves and its distribution. It

establishes a separate system of permits, authorizations and concession for different purposes of

water use.

Water supply and wastewater management were further regulated by Law No. 8102 on “Some

Changes and Additions to the Law No. 8093 on Water Resources”, which aims at ensuring a

safe and reliable drinking water supply and wastewater treatment. The Law establishes the national

Water Supply and Sanitation Regulatory Commission under the auspices of the Ministry of

Territorial Adjustment and Tourism.

Several Decision of Council of Ministers (DCM), where also relevant for this Project. These are: DCM No. 35, dated 18.1.2006, “On Approval of the Regulation for Works on Pipeline Systems and Removal of Wastewaters”. It described technical condition for wastewater pipelines, and conditioning norms for discharges of used water in approximation with EU legislation. DCM No. 145, dated 26.2.1998, “On Approval of Hygienic-Sanitary Regulation for Evaluation of Drinking Water Quality, Design, Construction and Supervision of Drinking Water Supply Systems”. This DCM, among others, provides the spatial dimensions of protective sanitary areas.

2.1.3 Legislation on Environmental Impact assessment and Environmental Permitting

Economic activities that could have a significant impact on the environment or are connected to use

of natural resources are permitted only after conducting an Environmental Impact Assessment

(EIA).

The latest Law regarding EIA is Law No. 10440, of 7.7. 2011 on “Environmental Impact

Assessment”. The Law has come in force in early 2013. This Law specifies general procedures for

EIA, the authorities which formalize and approve procedures and defines two types of EIA, namely

“profound” and “preliminary”. The classification of EIA categories in respect to various

investments are given in the annexes to the Law (Annex 1 for the profound EIA and Annex 2 for

the preliminary EIA). The Law defines the requirements for the issuance of the environmental

permit for EIA categories. It also refers to NEA, which is according to the Law No. 10431 of 2011

designated as a competent authority for definition of conditions for the environmental permit. The

Law gives the rules regarding the process of public information during EIA preparation process. In

accordance with types of investment (groundwater extraction), the Project related to Durres Water

Supply is belonging to group for which the clauses referring to profound EIA should apply.

Law No. 10448, of 14.7.2011, on “Environmental Permits”, gives the rules and new procedures

related to the EIA process, categorization and permits. This Law categorizes the types of

environmental permits, the competent authority for verification of each type of license, consultation

procedures etc. The Law describes the general principles that conditions basic obligations of the

subjects that apply for environmental permits and in respect to profound EIA specify that the

documentation should be presented to the National Center of Licensing (NCL) after consultation

with National Environmental Agency. The Law also specifies required documentation needed to be

delivered to NCL for requesting the environmental permit.

21

DCM No. 13, of 4.1.2013, on “Approval of the Rules, Responsibilities and Deadlines for

Development of EIA Procedures”, details the procedures, clarifies the documentation needed for

environmental permit requests, defines consultation and information procedures etc. In accordance

with this DCM, the time required to get the Environmental Permit for Profound EIA Reports is up

to 2 months from date of submission of relevant documentation.

Public Consultation

Albania has signed the Aarhus Convention in 1999 and ratified it in 2001. From this period

onwards, public consultation remains an important part of any new development actions. In the

Article 17 of the Law No. 10440 of 2011, the EIA preparation process is conditioned upon public

hearing process. The Law specifies how and when the public hearing and consultation should be

organized and how these should be reflected in the EIA Report. Furthermore, DCM No. 994, of

2008, on “Public Opinion on Environmental Decision Making”, deals with rules of public

participation on decisions for environmental permit of activities that impact the environment.

2.1.4 INSTITUTIONAL ASPECTS FOR WATER PROTECTION AND ADMINISTRATION

During the period 1995-2005, water resources management activities were extremely complex due

to a number of sectors, ministries and agencies involved. This complexity is underlined in

respective provisions of the Water Resource Law, which defined the composition of National Water

Council (NWC) as a body responsible for determining the main lines of policy and for making

major decisions related to it.

Main Authorities on Water Administration

The main authorities responsible for water resources management are the National Water Council

(NWC); The Ministry of Environment, Forests and Water Administration; the Technical Secretariat;

and the River Basin Agencies (RBAs) which operate on a regional level. Recently the Technical

Secretariat has been re-organized and a new General Directorate on Water Administration

established that will take over the functions of the Technical Secretariat and will supervise work of

the RBA’s. The Water Regulatory Authority functions under the National Water Regulatory

Commission, as an independent body with the exclusive right to set tariffs and license operators in

the water sector.

River Basin Agencies

The territory of Albania is divided into six River Basins (Semani, Drini/Buna, Vjosa, Ishem/Erzen,

Shkumbini, and Mati). For each of these basins the Law on Water Resources established the River

Basin Council and the River Basin Agency. The River Basin Councils’ responsibilities are (i)

rational protection, development, and operation of water resources within the boundaries of its

basin; (ii) fair distribution of water within the boundaries of its basin, according to the purposes for

water use and effective administration; and (iii) protection of water resources against pollution,

misuse, and overuse. The River Basin Councils are headed by the Prefect and have between 9 and

19 members selected from ministries, representatives of businesses, and consumer representatives.

They are supported by the River Basin Agencies (RBAs) that function as a technical secretariat to

RBCs.

The River Basin Agencies are responsible for implementation of the Law on Water Resources,

decisions made “their” RBC and for management of water resources within its basin areas. They

undertake the technical evaluation of applications for water abstraction and recommend them to

22

RBC for approval. They also support the respective municipalities in solving problems related to

the water resources.

The Durres water Supply Project Area falls within the administrative territory of two River Basin

Councils/Agencies, (i) RBC Mati, with offices in Lezha and RBC Ishem/Erzen, with offices in

Tirana. The respective RBCs gather in Lezha and Tirana.

2.1.5 World Bank EIA Requirements and applicable OPs.

The World Bank’s safeguard policies are designed to avoid, mitigate, or minimize adverse

environmental and social impacts of projects supported by the World Bank (WB). WB promotes the

implementation of systems that meet the above purposes and at the same time ensures that

development resources are used transparently and efficiently to achieve desired outcomes. In

addition to Safeguard Operational Policy (OP) for Environmental Assessment (OP 4.01), several

other policies have been taken into account during preparation of the Project, and in particular:

- OP 4.04 Natural Habitats

- OP 4.11 Physical Cultural Resources;

- OP 4.12 Involuntary Resettlement

- OP 4.37 Dams

- OP 4.36 Forests

- OP 7.50 Projects in International Waters

- OP 7.60 Projects in Disputed Areas

The Bank requires preparation of the environmental assessments (EA) of projects proposed for

Bank financing, to help ensure that they are environmentally sound and sustainable. While

preparing EA, the authors should take into account that:

EA takes into account the natural environment (air, water, and land); human health and safety;

social aspects (involuntary resettlement, indigenous peoples, and physical cultural resources); and

transboundary and global environmental aspects.

EA considers natural and social aspects in an integrated way. It also takes into account the

variations in project and country conditions; the findings of country environmental studies;

national environmental action plans; the country's overall policy framework, national legislation,

and institutional capabilities related to the environment and social aspects; and obligations of the

country, pertaining to project activities, under relevant international environmental treaties and

agreements.

EA Instruments

Depending on the project (dimension, scope of the project and impacts), a variety of instruments

can be used to answer the Bank's EA requirement:

- environmental impact assessment (EIA),

- regional or sectoral EA,

- environmental audit,

- hazard or risk assessment,

- Environmental management plan (EMP).

Environmental Screening

The Bank undertakes environmental screening of each proposed project to determine the

appropriate extent and type of EA. The Bank classifies the proposed project into one of four

23

categories, depending on the type, location, sensitivity, and scale of the project and the nature and

magnitude of its potential environmental impacts.

The four categories are:

a. Category A: A proposed project is classified as Category A if it is likely to have significant

adverse environmental impacts that are sensitive, diverse, or unprecedented. These impacts may

affect an area broader than the sites or facilities subject to physical works.

b. Category B: A proposed project is classified as Category B if its potential adverse environmental

impacts on human populations or environmentally important areas - including wetlands, forests,

grasslands, and other natural habitats - are less adverse than those of Category A projects.

c. Category C: A proposed project is classified as Category C if it is likely to have minimal or no

adverse environmental impacts. Beyond screening, no further EA action is required for a Category

C project.

d. Category FI: A proposed project is classified as Category FI if it involves investment of Bank

funds through a financial intermediary, in subprojects that may result in adverse environmental

impacts.

It has been determined that the present Project falls in the second group of projects and belongs to

environmental Category B. This type of project could have adverse impact on human health and

environmental components (air, water, soil, flora, fauna and landscape), but in the present case its

likely effects are site-specific, not major and not irreversible. Where existing, the negative effects

could be effectively offset and mitigated by application of the environmental mitigation activities,

as specified in EMP.

2.1.6 Conclusion

In the above sections of this chapter the main legislative framework is analyzed in terms of

international and national, as well as the institutional administrative structure of the water

management system and the World Bank procedures for environmental assessment. In broad terms

Albanian legislation and regulations are consistent with World Bank procedures. The Albanian

regulations for projects classified as requiring a profound assessment (Annex 1 of Law No. 10440

on Environmental Impact Assessment) require preparation of: (a) an Environmental Impact

Assessment (not a technical summary of the EIA) drafted with respect to the project type; (b) a

technical description of the project or activity; (c) a report containing information on public

awareness and consultation carried out in preparing for the proposed project; and (d) invoices for

services rendered in preparing the environmental assessment documentation. All of these

requirements are in line with World Bank OP 4.01 procedures for a project classified as Category B

with the additional requirement of preparing an Environmental Management Plan (EMP). An

Environmental Mitigation and Monitoring Plan has been prepared for this Project and is included to

this report under Sections 6.10.2-3 Specific measures stipulated in the EMP note where they are

compliant with national legislation or regulations, such as establishment of protections zones

around the production wells, by defining the protection area and method used to ensure protection.

In other instances where national laws or regulations are silent or do not indicate specific measures

for environmental mitigation or management, these actions or measures are set out in the EMP.

This includes, for example, water sampling/testing measures, preparing a groundwater basin

management plan, including chance find procedures in tender documents with respect to protection

of cultural heritage, among other such measures.

The consultants are satisfied that the project being the subject of the present EIA study complies,

through its technical design and its implementation procedures will comply with the applicable

24

body of law, provided that the mitigation and monitoring measures that are recommended in the

EMP Report will be fully applied.

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3 OBJECTIVES AND SUMMARY DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED PROJECT

3.1 Previous World Bank projects

The World Bank is actively supporting the Government of Albania’s efforts to improve

environment and health conditions in Durres and surrounding area.

Of particular importance in this respect are:

Two emergency repair projects,;

i. the Durres Water Supply Rehabilitation Project (DWSRP), approved in May 1994 (total

cost US$17.6 million, of which US$11.6 million was financed by IDA and US$5.5 million

by the Government); and

ii. The Albania Water Supply Urgent Rehabilitation Project (WSURP), approved in February

2000 (total cost US$14.6 million of which US$10 million was financed by IDA).

Following on from the above a third World Bank financed project was the MWWP (US$15

million), which focused on building capacity for managing water and wastewater services. Part

of this project included an Independent Performance Reviewer Audit of the Operator (BWI).

Finally, the World Bank, on behalf of the Global Environment Facility (GEF) financed the US$

4.87 million Integrated Water and Ecosystems Management Project that attempted to provide

low-cost nutrient removal for Durres sewerage and wastewater and which also complemented

the European Investment Bank (EIB) initiative -financing of conventional wastewater treatment

plants in Durres, Lezha, and Saranda.

In spite of the past projects water supply and wastewater services still remain woefully deficient in

the Durres region.

3.2 The Present Project

The GoA has received grant financing from the Japanese Policy and Human Resources

Development (PHRD) Fund, administered by the World Bank (WB) toward the preparation of the

proposed Albania Water Sector Investment Project (WSIP).

The WSIP is being implemented by the Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MPWT) through

the Water Project Implementation Unit (PIU) of the General Directorate of Water and Sanitation

Services (GDWSS).

26

Rapid urbanization has been underway for some time in Albania, due in part to the inability of rural

residents to sustain themselves in agricultural activities and the opportunities for new jobs in larger

cities. This has caused serious demand pressure for services in Durres City, including water supply

and sanitation, that the Project is designed to address. Currently, there is very little evidence that

rural population moves to urban areas just to access water from networks. Reliable water service is

now a problem which is widespread and is not confined to rural areas. A major part of the Project is

expected to ensure additional quantities of water for water supply of Durres residents (who are now

facing a deficit of about 30,000 m3/day) by rehabilitating the Fushe Milot Wellfield and

construction of the related transmission main, which will, together with comprehensive demand

management program of Durres Water Utility, provide better communal services in the area of

potable water. The Project is also aiming to address the wastewater situation by extending the

existing wastewater network and replacing some of its old, dilapidated parts with new higher

capacity mains, which will be connected to the newly completed Durres Wastewater Treatment Plan

that is now being commissioned. The new Durres WWTP is capable of accepting the wastewater

that will be produced in the area that is served by the Project, after linking the Project-related

investments to the existing wastewater system. The Project is also helping to implement the

universal water metering program, thus reducing water waste and help in adequate billing and

enforcement of water tariffs. In respect to rural areas, the Project will support activities aiming to

dismantle rooftop water tanks combined with installation of elevated water reservoirs serving

settlement areas that do not receive pressurized water, since inefficient and leaky rooftop water

tanks are considered one of the major sources of water loses.

3.3 Studies funded under the present project

The COWI Feasibility, Validation and Detailed Design

The PHRD grant was funding the “Validation and Finalization of the Feasibility Study and

Preparation of Preliminary and Detailed Design for Bulk Water Supply Line to Durres Region”

developed by COWI. This study has so produced an Inception report (August 2011), a “preliminary

Design Report” (October 8th

2011), and a “Final Draft Design Report/ main Report of November

19th

2011, and revised Validation and Finalization of Feasibility Study and Preparation of

Preliminary and Detailed Design (January 2013).

The Barry & Partners study

27

The European Union has funded (on Project Europe Aid/127584/C/WKS/AL) a full technical study

of the Project’s Wastewater Component for Durres, which has produced the technical tender

documents in June 2010.

The Social assessment and Resettlement Plan

The PHRD grant is also funding the “Durres water pipeline resettlement action plan and social

assessment”, which was produced by DRN- ACER in January, 2012. In addition to this study, a

Resettlement Action Plan (Rap) and Resettlement Policy Framework (RPF) has been prepared by

DRN in January, 2013.

As part of the preparation of the proposed Water Sector Investment Project for Durres, to be co-

financed by the World Bank, the Government wishes to carry out an Environmental Impact

Assessment (EIA) to assess the potential environmental impacts of the project, and develop an

environmental management plan to ensure implementation of the project consistent with applicable

World Bank and GoA environmental safeguards policies. The present EIA report follows an

Inception Report and a Data Collection Report.

3.4 The proposed infrastructures

3.4.1 Project Component 1 - Priority Water Supply Investments

Following detailed studies and consideration of alternatives, the proposed WSIP Project includes

(detailed description is provided in section 4.1.1 of this Report):

Rehabilitation of the Fushe Milot Wellfield, consisting of six new production wells, one of

which would be used for back-up and monitoring;

A pump station, to be located adjacent to the existing polder pumps station at Hydrovore

Patok;

A transmission main (pipeline), whose route will follow almost entirely existing roads,

leading from the Wellfield to Durres, with a branch off at Porto Romano, with a total length of

an estimated 63 km;

Bulk reservoirs and their feeder lines, to supply the villages along Fushe Kuqe main

(approximately 7 reservoirs).

3.4.2 Project Component 2 - Wastewater Investments

The investments consist of the rehabilitation of an existing and decrepit sewage system in the prime

tourism area of Durres, and in the connection of the said network to the newly built Wastewater

Treatment Plant capable of handling the increased load. The area to be served by the wastewater

network (primary, secondary and tertiary), being the main tourism area of Durres and facing the

beach, is about 6 km x 600 m of extension, is now home to 15 000 residents; however, as a

28

considerable capacity of tourism facilities has been developed in the area (Hotels, high rise

apartment blocks) which cater for tourists and during the peak summer season (June-July-August)

bring the population number up to 95,000. The primary network comprises 6,313m of 315 to

1000mm main collector gravity sewer and 2,481m of 280 to 710mm sewer rising mains together

with the refurbishment of four existing pumping stations and the construction of four new pumping

stations. The link to the newly constructed Durres Waste Water Treatment Plant, which has been

commissioned and is fully operational, runs for 4km from the seafront, along the motorway

connecting Durres to Tirana, and then to the north across a suburban area. A detailed description of

the infrastructure is provided in section 6.2 ” Description of the Wastewater component” of this

Report.

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4 PROJECT COMPONENT 1- PRIORITY WATER SUPPLY INVESTMENTS (WELLFIELDS, PIPELINE, BULK RESERVOIRS)

4.1 Description of Project Component 1- Priority water supply

4.1.1 The Fushe Milot Wellfield

Fushe Milot Wellfield is an existing wellfield area, originally developed in 1960’s when the first

two wells have been constructed, and further expanded with another two wells in 1980’s. The

combined capacity of these wells during peak-time production was 500 l/s, and they were used to

supply the industrial facilities in the nearby small town. Wells were constructed using the then-

standard methods, with top section being executed using reinforced concrete rings diameters of

around 1500mm, and were equipped with horizontal pumps. However, during late 1980’s the

industrial facilities gradually declined and were eventually shut down in 1990, with resulting wells

being shut-down or abandoned. The civil engineering structures protecting the wells are now in

various stages of repair (from moderately to severely dilapidated) and show lack of maintenance

during the last decade. Some of the facilities have been occupied and are now used for housing.

The proposed rehabilitation of the existing Wellfield area would be comprised of construction of a

total of six wells (5 intended for continuous operation, and one for emergency stand-by, water level

monitoring and water quality testing). Total extraction capacity of the installed pumps in 6 wells

will be 630 l/s, but considering that one well is intended for emergency back-up only, the maximum

extraction at any one time would be up to 500 l/s. The wells will be drilled to an average depth of

60 meters, will be equipped with a gravel filter and 400 mm (outer well diameter will be 660 mm)

well casings/screens and supplied with submersible pumps. The piping within the wells will be of

galvanized mild steel, and all wells will be closed with an appropriate well head.

The filters will have a length of 40 meters and plain casing for a length of 30 meters. First 30 m

from surface will also be protected with second concrete casing for potential surface water intrusion

to the well.

Construction of wells and execution of safety protection zones for each well location will require

minimum of 100m2 of land, to be protected by a wire fence with a height of 2.5 meters, and an

30

operator room (12 m2). In addition, the safety protection zones will be established to fully comply

with the Albanian legislation, which will be finalized in the detailed designs, based on actual

situation on the field. The wells will be fitted with submersible pumps with a rating of 62 l/s.

Additional observation wells will be drilled, to monitor water quality and aquifer behavior including

water table height during operation. For continuous monitoring of water table height, all wells will

be equipped with height measurement devices with data loggers.

Implementation of a water monitoring program is an essential part of the Environmental Mitigation

and Monitoring measures, to offset and control the potential impacts of the Project on water

resources, as described in section 5.1.4 “The expected impacts during the project’s life” of the

present Report.

4.1.2 The Pumping Station

The main pumping station serves the purpose of channeling the water in the main transmission

pipeline that delivers it to Durres. It will consist of two reinforced concrete collection tanks (300

cubic meters each), main pump house with 8 pumps each capable of pumping 104,5 l/s (six for

normal operation and two on standby), a surge vessel, and necessary electrical works to provide

power from the existing power sub-station at the pump in Fushe Kuqe. The overall land required for

this facility is 5000 m2 while the constructed surface will be of 380 m

2.

31

FIGURE 2 PROPOSED NEW WELLFIELD

Title of Document: General Civil Specification Date: May, 2013

Document Issue: 001A Page No.: 32

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4.1.3 The Main Transmission Pipeline

The transmission main will link the pumping station to Durres, running for an estimated 63 km

along the coast, following the route which is shown in Figure 3. This route mainly follows the

existing paved roads, except in one section where it follows “dirt-track” or “forest roads”, so as to

minimize disturbances to the environment and to society, abate expropriation costs and facilitate

servicing. The impact of this route on natural ecosystems is discussed in section 5.3 of the present

Report. The pipeline will be built in a shallow trench (1,8 m deep and 1,5m wide), and will include

four main water crossings, at the Drainage Channel (Druma), on the Ishmi River, on the Turrini

Channel and on the Ezreni River, plus another 13 minor crossings of drainage and irrigation

channels. At its arrival in Durres, the pipeline will be connected to existing reservoirs (2 in Durres

and one in Porto Romano) and to branch-off pipes.

4.1.4 The Bulk reservoirs

Seven Bulk Reservoirs shall be built to serve the rural population, four of which will be located

along the Fushe Milot – Fushe Kruja transmission main (at Fushe-Preze, Karpen, Metalla and

Bodiak) and three along the Fushe Kuqe transmission main (at Shkafane, Lalez, and Rrushkull).

The larger reservoirs (500 m3) are to be made with two chambers, while the smaller ones (volume

<100 m3) with a single chamber. The reservoirs will be built as rectangular reinforced concrete

structures without plastering or coating. A connection for the existing reservoir Mamminas along

the Fushe Kruja main will also be constructed by the Project.



33

FIGURE 3- ROUTE OF PROPOSED MAIN TRANSMISSION PIPELINE FROM NEW PUMPING STATION

TO DURRES



34

FIGURE 4- ROUTE OF PROPOSED MAIN TRANSMISSION PIPELINE FROM WELLSFIELD TO

PUMPING STATION

4.2 The socio-economic context

As mentioned in previous works of consultants involved in the analyses of Durres region and the

surroundings, this region has been identified as the Europe’s fastest growing region in terms of

demographic increase. This area has also been rated as one of the fastest growing areas in economic

terms with growth’s forecasts over 65% in the next twenty years (ref.: EC/Landell Mills SIDTDR

project) 1

.

Within this region, the city of Durres has grown rapidly. Durres city and the Keneta's illegal

settlements in 2008, were counted a population of approx. 170,000 and in addition rural areas

surrounding the Industrial area of Porto Romano had approx. 30,000. The large Durres city area is

1 Regional Development Framework for the Tirana-Durres Region 2008-2027 – Action Plan, December 2007



35

expected to progress to nearly 300,000 by 20272. The maps below present the development pattern

of Durres region from 1900 to 2007 and its projections to 20273.

FIGURE 5 PROJECTED DEVELOPMENTS OF DURRES TO 2027

4.2.1 Water demand in the Durres region

The Durres region (Districts of Fushe Kuqe, Fushe Kruje, and Kavaja) has grown rapidly (see the

above tables in chapters 6.9.1 and 6.9.2). Since the mid-1990s, massive new suburbs have been

developed, where most of the buildings are still illegal without planning permission. Consequently

these new settlements have no official water system connection; many of them have illegal

connections of electricity and/or water and very low percentage of buildings have waste water

connections.

In this context the property issues are very complex and often not documented with official

registration, in some cases dwellings have been built on someone else’s land and it’s very difficult

to understand and define property rights. Furthermore many areas in the city centers have been

intensively redeveloped with apartment blocks of up to twelve floors replacing buildings only two

2 Rapid Environmental Assessment for the Industrial and Energetic Park's at Porto Romano, Durres, Albania, 25

th

May 2008 and Regional Development Framework for the Tirana-Durres Region 2008-2027 – Action Plan,

December 2007. 3 Rapid Environmental Assessment for the Industrial and Energetic Park's at Porto Romano, Durres, Albania, 25

th

May 2008 and Regional Development Framework for the Tirana-Durres Region 2008-2027 – Action Plan,

December 2007.



36

floors high. The development has affected both residential zones, industrial areas, holiday homes

and services areas. A large industrial area (about 20 km length) has been developed along-side the

eastern end of the highway which joins Tirana and Durres.

A strip of holiday homes of nearly similar length has sprung up along the south coastal area of

Durres. About a dozen private universities have been opened. Tourism influx considerably

increases water demand especially during the peak summer season (June-July-August). These

developments have jointly caused considerable increase in water demand in the last decade. The

assessment of water demand includes all the main consumption sources:

Domestic use;

Institutional and small industries;

Industries;

Tourism sector;

Pipe and network losses.

The Inception Report of COWI4 provides water demand projections as follows:

2010: The total water demand for Durres and rural area along Fushe Kuqe main during a peak

summer day (weekend) is 87,539m3/day (1,013 l/s). Comparing this to the production of

65,664m3/d (760 l/s) and a calculated consumption along the main of 27,159m3/d (314.385 l/s)

gives a deficit of 21,875m3/d (253.19 l/s) for the town. This is clearly reflected in the fact that only

once per day there is enough water to feed the major supply lines and fill the house storage tanks.

The calculated deficit per capita is around 70 l/c/d or 47 % of the actual demand.

FIGURE 6- PROJECTED WATER DEFICIT FOR DURRES CITY

4 4 Validation and Finalisation of Feasibility Study and Preparation of Preliminary and Detailed Design for Bulk

Water Supply Line to Durres Region – Inception Report COWI 29th

August 2011.

0

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

1400

1600

2010 2020 2030

Lite

rs p

er

seco

nd

Year Demand Production Durres city deficict



37

2020: If present supply levels remain unchanged, by 2020 the deficit will be doubled. The total

water demand for Durres and rural area along Fushe Kuqe main during a peak summer day

(weekend) will be 110,262 m3/day (1,275 l/s).

Comparing this to the production of 65,664m3/d (760 l/s) and a calculated consumption along the

main of 34,261 m3/d (396.55 l/s) gives a deficit of 44,578 m3/d (515.96 l/s) for the town. The

calculated deficit per capita in 2020 will then reach 110 l/d or 73 % of the present demand.

2030: The situation will be severely aggravated unless production is increased. The total water

demand for Durres and rural area along Fushe Kuqe main during a peak summer day (weekend)

will be 119,304.76m3/day (1,380.84 l/s). Comparing this to the production of 65,664 m3/d (760 l/s)

and a calculated consumption along the main of 37,609.13 m3/d (435.29l/s) gives a deficit of

53,640 m3/d (620.84 l/s) for the town. The per capita deficit in 2030 is estimated at around 120 l/d

or 82 % of the present demand.

4.2.2 Water Demand in the Rural Area

The Socio-Economic survey5 has highlighted indications that the services provided for the rural

area are not satisfied for the population according to the standards of life. Main findings are

presented below:

The respondents declared that they generally have access to basic services, 97% to electricity and

only about 77.4% have access to water. The results of the survey show that communities have not

proper access also to the sewerage system, while resulting that only 60% of them have access to

regular system.

When analyzing the access to water as per project implementation sites, it is observed that rural

areas have less access to water supply, especially the Communes of Fushe Kuqe and Thumane,

where respectively 4% and 2.2% of their communities have access to water. It is noted that access

problems are related much more to reliable supply of water than to actual household connections.

Between urban areas, the community in the municipality of Mamurras has less access to water

which is of comparable level to rural areas, respectively 2.2%. While, community of Durres

municipality has more access to water and is followed by the municipality of Sukth and Manza,

respectively 25.4%, 19.2% and about 16%.

Communities of the surveyed areas have as the primary source of water the piped into their

houses/apartments (60.2%), but this is slightly higher share from those community members who

5 DRN- ACER . “Final Analytical Report of January 19th 2012.



38

receive water through the wells in their yard (18.6%). The percentage of private well usage shows

the lack of water supply in the respective areas, and lack of access to the pipelines especially in the

rural areas. In addition, 14% of the respondents declared that they have access to water supply

system, but access water through piped into yard or plot.

Private wells in the yard of the households are more frequently being reported in Manza

Municipality in 26.2% of cases (17 HH use private wells out of 45 surveyed in the area), in Durres

Municipality in 20% of cases. The communities who have access to water piped into houses are the

Municipality of Durres and Sukth. However, there is evidence that in Ishem commune majority of

respondents access water through piped into the yard or plot, showing for poor water infrastructure

in their houses, which is an indicators or poverty, lack of resources to install water pipe into the

house, or poor pressure of the water supply system to reach their reservoirs. In Manez there are 6

households access water only through the spring in the village.

The results of the SA survey show that Water is used more for drinking (99%), hygiene (95%),

cooking (89%) and less for irrigation (27%). However, 37.3% of the respondents consider the

water quality as below average (somehow, bad and very bad) and 62.7% above average (good 46%

and very good 17%).

Respondents were asked on average how much do they currently pay for their monthly provision of

water supply and how much they will pay in case of provision of a better water supply service.

………. The households would pay slightly more money in case they would be provided with more

water and better service (appropriate pressure, etc)

4.2.3 Social impact of the project

The main pipeline transmission route and the location of all project components have been

designated in such a way as to minimize the need for expropriation and resettlement.

Expropriation of land for the rehabilitation of the existing wellfield at Fushe Milot and in some

locations along the main pipeline transmission route has been assessed in depth by the consultancy

group DRN- ACER. A separate report regarding social impact assessment of project “Durres Water

pipeline Resettlement action plan and Social Assessment” has been prepared. In addition to this

study, a specific study is performed for resettlement and land acquisition requirement of project. In

that respect a study report named as “Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) and Resettlement Policy

Framework (RPF)” was prepared in January, 2013, in compliance with the Albanian Law on Land

Acquisition and the World Bank’s OP 4.1.2.



39

The RAP’s main findings are among others:

To minimize resettlement impacts for establishment of the water pipeline it was reassured by the

project design, that the densely populated private lands are avoided as much as possible. This is

confirmed through RAP field observations, revealing that the planned water pipeline in most of

its length passes along the right-of-way the existing urban and rural roads and traverse in some

cases pastures and valleys property of public domain (commune lands). However, the inevitable

private land affected results for 34 agriculture plots owned by 28 land-owners in total.

RAP reveals that the only affected parties from land acquisition, for the construction of the new

Water Pipeline, are the private land owners. A total of 28 land owners are identified to be

expropriated according to the Albanian legislation in force. Land acquisition affects 34 plots in

four administrative units, in total 3487m2:

i. Milot Commune – 6 land owners

ii. Fushe Kuqe Commune – 3 land owners

iii. Ishem Commune – 18 land owners

iv. Sukth Municipality – 1 land owners

Land needed for the new water pipeline is registered as “agricultural land” in the four

administrative units. Field observations and data collected through RAP census-survey show

that, most of land owners use the land as pasture and for cultivating agriculture products. There

are no dwellings or any other structure or trees in the identified plots to be expropriated.

The estimated total cost of land compensation for the proposed project is calculated to the

amount of 4,246,330.00 ALL (Approximately US$ 40,442) for a total of land surface of

3487m2.

Additional information in relation to socio-economic impact is available in RAP and RPF

documents.



40

5 RISK ANALYSIS AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS

5.1 Water resources The description of water resources (groundwater, surface water), pollution and seawater intrusion

threats, recharge and flow of the aquifer are presented in the following sections. More detailed

description of these aspects is provided in Annex 1 to the present report.

In order to define the potential environmental impacts with the transmission main and the wellfield

area, the main and hydro-geological and hydrological characteristics have been analyzed. A

summary of this analysis study is given in Section 5.1.1. As shown in Figure 7, the area of existing

wellfield covers the Fushe Kuqe Plain, whose total surface amounts to about 45 km2 and belongs to

the Southern part of the Mati River basin. To the North, the area is bordered by the Mati River. To

the East, this plain is borders with a mountain ridge with peaks that reach up to 600 - 800 m.a.s.l.

The Southern West border are the Adriatik villages; whereas to the West the Fushe Kuqe Plain

borders on the Adriatic Sea and towards the South East is confined to Fushe Kruja Plain. The Plain

consists of a flat terrain gently sloping towards the sea, with elevations ranging < from 0 - 8 m.a.s.l.

The wellfield to be rehabilitated by the Project is located in the Fushe Milot Area, north-east from

the existing Fushe Kuqe Wellfield.

5.1.1 Hydrology

Rivers and channels

The Fushe Kuqe plain is a former marshland, which has been reclaimed and features an open

drainage system on its surface, with a final pumping station (hydrovore) that discharges the drained

water into the Adriatic Sea. As shown in Figure 8, main hydrological feature of the Fushe Kuqe

Plain is the Mati River, which forms the area's natural northern border. The Mati River’s catchment

area is 2441 km², the main tributary of it is Fani River, that flows from the north eastern mining

district of Rubik and Rreshenin the Lezhe County to its confluence with the Mati River near the

town of Milot while Mati itself flows from the south East Diber County to its confluence with Fani

and then to the west meandering through the flat plain area with an average gradient of around 0.5 -

0.6 m/km, to its estuary into the Adriatic Sea, near the city of Lezhe.



41

FIGURE 7 FUSHE KUQE BASIN

16

Figure 5: Hydrogeologic map of Mati River delta (northern sector of Tirana-Ishmi depression).

From the Hydrogeological Map of Albania, scale 1:200.000.

Fushe Kuqe Basin

Legend

Gravelly aquifer; Hydroizohpieze, m amsl

Very abundant

Gravelly clayey aquifer; Main direction of

Local resources groundwater movement

Karstified limestone;

Non homogenously Isoline of TDS, gr/l

abundant aquifer

Mainly clay and flysch; Bottom depth of

Without groundwater gravelly aquifer, m

4

50

0.5

Studied area Lezha Basin

Existing Fushe Kuqe

wellfield

Proposed Fushe Miloti

wellfield



42

In the upper reaches of Mati River, two hydroelectric power plants and associated dams were

constructed in the past (1952-1970). Therefore, the natural regime of the Mati River has been

completely changed, but this happened before development of Fishe Milot Wellfield in 1960’s; the

Fani River, on the contrary, has maintained its natural regime.

Downstream of its confluence with Fani in the plain, the flow of Mati River can be considered as a

sum of the continuous discharge from the hydropower plants and flow of Fani River. The discharge

from the hydropower plants varies between 10m3/s and 15m3/s with peak flows of more than

50m3/s. 6

FIGURE 8 RIVER MATI AND ISHMI BASINS

The Fani River exhibits a very variable discharge ranging from a mean minimum monthly flow of

about 10m3/s in August to a mean maximum monthly discharge of about 71m3/s in January with an

annual average of around 45 m3/s.

6 The Institute of Hydrometeorology of Albania).



43

Records between 1951 and 1985 indicate that the Mati had a mean annual discharge of 103m³/s, of

which 60m³/s e from the Mati itself and 42m³/s from the Fani. The resulting specific discharge was

about 40 l/s.km² and the runoff coefficient 0.75.

The river’s annual discharge volume is 3,250 million m³ , specific discharge is 40 l/s.km², with a

ratio of 10 between the wettest month (December) and the driest month ( August); the storage

capacity of Ulza reservoir hydropower plants is 240 million m³ (about 15% of annual flow of the

Mati).

In the southern part of the plain the Rivers Zeza and Gjole cut through the plain and then flow into

the Ishem River. In the River Terkuza , flows of between 0 to 14 m3/sec are reported (the source

river of the Gjole River is the River Tirane, this flows along the northern outskirts of Tirana and

joins the River Tërkuzë, near Preze, to form the Gjole). The River Droja flows across the center of

the plain and then into the sea at the town of Adriatik (flow data unavailable).

Surface water quality and pollution loads

The quality of water was investigated in several studies which concur in indicating the presence of

heavy metals in the waters of the Mati river basin. Chemical analysis of samples taken from the

Mati before 1990 when the polluting industries were in operation showed a high content of metallic

ions (iron, manganese and copper), The impacts on irrigated agriculture and human health are not

fully assessed and the implications for marine coastal waters are also not clear 7

The most recent (2010) tests of chemical pollution of the Mati and Shkumbini rivers, found

concentrations of Chrome, Nickel, Zinc, Cadmium, Copper and Arsenic exceed the maximum

acceptable values. These appear to be based on residual deposits in the river basin sediment, rather

than the water itself. Relatively high concentration of Cu in sediments of river Mati reflect both the

natural background value of heavy metals minerals from geological characteristic of rocks in the

area, and the pollution from dumps of solid wastes of mines and former metallurgical plants.

Especially important contributors of this type of pollution are the dumps in Fani river banks (as in

Repsi, Rresheni and Rubiku) and numerous mining works in Sparci and Kader Sparci slopes, from

which acid waters drain, including also the natural leaching of surface outcrops of mineralized

zones. It was estimated that the Fani River transports each year 1 ton Cu, 1.5 ton Zn, 27 ton Fe and

800 ton S. Remediation measures including closing of a hot spot dump site related to these

materials has been carried out with the support of the European Commission. Furthermore, over 6

water quality testing samples have been taken in the four existing wells by the Geological Survey

7 The Institute of Hydrometeorology of Albania



44

Institute during the period 2009-2013 in the Fushe Milot wellfield area and all results showed water

quality across a broad array of standard indicators to be within acceptable limits.

5.1.2 Aquifer and Groundwater

Hydro geological characteristics

The Fushe Kuqe Plain is a multilayered artesian aquifer system formed by alluvial deposits with

permeable layers of gravel and sandy gravel. According to the existing hydro geological studies,

clay and silt deposits seem to cover progressively these permeable deposits, which outcrop along

the Mati River in the Northern part of the Plain in a South- Western direction. Only in the area

along the Mati River where are outcrops of gravelly deposits, the aquifer system can be found

partially unconfined. In the Northern part of the Fushe Kuqe Plain, along the Mati River where the

proposed Fushe Milot Wellfield is located, the aquifer is considered as continuous, whereas towards

the South, there are two intermediate clay layers characterized by a variable thickness of 10 till 20

m and enable the generation of three aquifer horizons.

First and second aquifers are separated by a clay layer with a variable thickness of 15 to 30 m. The

upper aquifer is partly unconfined in the recharge area, and partly in confined conditions at Ishmi

River section. On the other hand, second aquifer is mainly in confined condition, which gives

advantage for protection from surface contamination. In the Fushe Kruja area the groundwater flow

direction has been established as being predominantly south-east to north-west, while in the south

part of aquifer, from Fushe Kuqe area, the flow is from the north-east to the south-west. A

piezometric map of the upper aquifer, based on measurements made by the Hydro geological

Institute in 1983, confirms Lotti’s (1993) observation that in the Fushe Kruje area the direction of

groundwater flow was predominantly south-east to north-west and in the Fushe Kuqe area it was

north-east to south-west. In the northern part of Fushe Kuqe plain, this map suggests that the major

source of recharge is close to where the River Mati flows into the plain. The static level of

underground waters varies from 2.5 m above the surface in Fushe Kuqe village to 2.25 m below the

surface in the south in Fushe Milot.

Anthropogenic influences on the aquifer system

The Fushe Kuqe Plain is mainly extracted by two wellfields located in the Fushe Kuqe and in the

Fushe Milot area. Increase in the extraction of groundwater has increased over the years, and now

reached a limit where significant increase in extraction may produce the risk of seawater intrusion,

especially in Fushe Kuqe region. However, the Project will not contribute to this situation, as



45

planned extraction rates for Fushe Milot Wellfield will be maintained to originally extracted

amounts in that Wellfield, which is 500 l/s.

This is because piezometric levels have been altered over the years by effect of such extraction,

such that the flow of the aquifer has been modified: it is possible to estimate the total fall in

groundwater levels in Fushe Kuqe as being between 3.5 and 5 m over the period 1963 to 2001.

The groundwater resource is also extracted by both deep and shallow private wells. In the Fushe

Kuqe Plain there are 115 drilled wells; these wells are used by local inhabitants to ensure the water

supply of small communities. Most of these wells only reach the first aquifer layer, but some of

them, drilled for exploration purpose only, have reached the third aquifer layers.

Groundwater flow balance and potential resource

The recharge of the aquifer system mainly seems to occur in the Northern part of the Plain by

infiltration from the Mati River’s surface waters through its banks , and in the Eastern part

partially by groundwater inflow from the lateral outcrops of limestone rocks bordering the Plain,

plus inflow from precipitations.

In the north, the smaller contribution from Mati River is partially offset by inflows from the sea and

groundwater infiltrations from the north. These are no excess flow to sea or to rivers (1285 l/s in

Lotti’s balance). In fact the opposite occurs: the groundwater depression in the north, created by the

wellfield in Fushe Kuqe, is responsible for inflows from the sea.

Groundwater Recharge

As is already known, the main recharge source for the groundwater of the Fushe Kuqe plain is Mati

River, which riverbed gravel deposits has direct connection with the gravelly aquifer layers. The

recharge can be estimated via the calculation of the natural groundwater flow in an aquifer section

perpendicular to the flow direction.

The calculation is done applying Darcy’s law :

Q = KxMxLxI

In which:

K – is the average coefficient of permeability of the aquifer in the area, in m2/day;

M – is the thickness of the aquifer along the section of calculation in m;

L – is the total width of the aquifer section perpendicular to the groundwater flow in m ;

I – is the average gradient of the groundwater flow.



46

The total natural groundwater flow in a section with orientation NW-ES, which is located parallel to

and in immediate vicinity to the piezoizohipse elevation 4.0m amsl (plate 1) can therefore be

estimated as follows:

Q = 180m/day * 60m * 6000m * 0.003 = 194.400m3/day = 2250l/s

Groundwater Discharge

The groundwater discharge occurs mainly by extraction via wells through pumping or free

flowing artesian discharge, and through groundwater flow to the Adriatic Sea.

From Fushe Kuqe well field (7 wells for Durres water supply) 900 l/s

From Milot (2 wells) 30 l/s

From Laçi plain (2 wells) 40 l/s

From Fushe Kuqe plain (4 wells for Fushe Kuqe Commune water supply) 90 l/s

Free flowing wells and private wells (about 250) 150 /s

Total 1210 l/s

Groundwater drainage to Adriatic Sea

Fushe Kuqe groundwater system has two gravelly aquifer layers. Most of the groundwater is

extracted from the first aquifer layer while the groundwater of the second aquifer practically is

totally drained into the Adriatic Sea.

An indirect estimation of the groundwater drainage to the Adriatic Sea can be done as the difference

of the total groundwater flow and the groundwater extraction:

2250 - 1210 = 1040 l/s

The calculated value should be verified by updating the hydropizometric contour map for the first

aquifer layer and the compilation of such a map for the second one. Based on the existing data, it is

difficult to calculate the water quantity drained in the Sea separately by each aquifer layer.

Groundwater Balance

Using the above computed figures, the groundwater balance of the Fushe Kuqe Hydrogeological

system can be summarized as below:

Recharge, l/s Drainage l/s

Recharge from Mati River 2250



47

Extraction from pumping wells,

and private wells 1210

Groundwater drainage into the sea 1040

Total 2250 l/s 2250 l/s

Groundwater quality

The chemical groundwater composition has been identified by analyses in the framework of

different studies. Generally, these analyses indicated low groundwater mineralization as well as a

chemical composition and bacteriological conditions in compliance with the requirements of

potable water.

In terms of groundwater quality and hydraulic properties, Fushe Kuqe basin is divided into four

regions. The identification of the regions is based on the hydraulic properties of the aquifer and on

hydro-chemical characteristics of groundwater. These regions are shown in Figure 9.

Region 1 includes the southern portion of Fushe Kuqe basin, from Goreja village in the north, to the

southern border of the study area (See Figure 9). This is the area with lower values of hydraulic

parameters and mostly with bad quality groundwater. The average parameters of this area are as

follow:

Coefficient of filtration, K 50-170 m/d

Coefficient of transmissibility, T <1000 to 4000 m2/d

Specific capacity of wells, q < 10 to 30 l/s/m

Groundwater chemical type HCO3-Mg-Ca, HCO3-Cl-Na

Total dissolved solids 0.5 to more than 1000 mg/l

Total hardness 10 to 30 °German

Cl concentration 50 to more than 300 mg/l

From the Region 1 good quality groundwater for the water supply could not be provided. It could

even be stated that the mineralized water of Region 1 could deteriorate the water quality of Durres

Fushe Kuqe well field, if the groundwater extraction should be increased in the future.



48

Region 2 includes the area located west to Fushe Kuqe well field which includes the Patok seashore

area. This is the intermediate zone between Fushe Kuqe well field and Adriatic Sea. This zone at

most has good hydraulic parameters and good quality groundwater. The average parameters of this

area are as follow:

Coefficient of filtration, K 50-170 m/d

Coefficient of transmissibility, T <1000 to 4000 m2/d

Specific capacity of wells, q < 10 to 30 l/s/m

Groundwater chemical type HCO3-Mg-Ca, HCO3-Cl-Na

Total dissolved solids 0.5 to more then 1000 mg/l


Cl concentration 50 to more then 300 mg/l

Only small diameter wells for private water supply with capacity no bigger than 1 l/s could be

drilled in this region; the extraction of water for irrigation is strong. In Region 2, it is not

recommended to drill water supply wells due to the reason of piesometric depression that might

cause seawater intrusion. Therefore, this area should be kept under serious monitoring.

Region 3 includes the central-north part of Fushe Kuqe basin; this is the transit area for

groundwater flowing from recharge area to the discharge one, which is Adriatic Sea. In the western

part of this area are located the extraction wells for Durres water supply. The average parameters of

this area are as follow:

Coefficient of filtration, K about 150 to 2700 m/d

Coefficient of transmissibility, T about 4000 to 7000 m2/d

Specific capacity of wells, q about 20 to 50 l/s/m

Groundwater chemical type HCO3-Ca-Mg; HCO3-Mg-Na

Total dissolved solids about 200 to 300 mg/l


Cl concentration about 10 to 20 mg/l

As seen in the hydrogeological map around the Fushe Kuqe well field is created a piesometric

depression with maximal drawdown about 4.0 to 4.5 m. If for future water needs we will rely on the

drilling of extraction wells in Region 3, by no means the existing piesometric depression can be

increased both as surface, as well as depth. This can compromise the groundwater quality. This is

the reason that the groundwater extraction from Region 3 cannot be increased; in this area should

not be drilled other big quantity large diameter wells. Only small diameter wells, for private water

supply wells, each well capacity no bigger than 1 l/s could be drilled.



49



50

FIGURE 9 Hydrogeological Regions of Fushe Kuqe Basin

Region 4 includes the north-most portion of Fushe Kuqe basin; this area is located south to Mati

River along the riverbed from Gurrez village in west to Fushe Milot in the east. This area is about 6

km in length and about 1.1km, in width. In this area the first extraction wells has been drilled in

between 1961-1962 for the water supply of chemical industry of Lac i town. The existing wellfield



51

consists of 7 wells, the capacity of which is about 70 l/s each. The project will construct 2 new

wells next to 2 existing wells that are no longer operational, and drill 4 additional wells within 50

meters of the existing wells. The depth of the wells is mostly about 30 to 60 m. The average

parameters of this area are as follows:

Coefficient of filtration, K about 200 to 350 m/d

Coefficient of transmissibility, T about 5000 to 8000 m2/d

Specific capacity of wells, q about 25 to 75 l/s/m

Groundwater chemical type HCO3-Ca-Mg

Total dissolved solids about 150 to 200 mg/l


Cl concentration about 10 mg/l

This area has the better hydraulic conditions; because the hydraulic parameters are very high, the

area is near the river and the future wells could be recharged through the induced infiltration. As the

new wells (proposed Fushe Milot wellfield) should be recharged by the induced infiltration, the

drawdown should be relatively small. This way the influence of the new wells in the extraction

wells of Fushe Kuqe basin should be minimal.

5.1.3 The expected impacts during the construction phase

The surface water system is not expected to suffer any notable impact during the construction

phase. On the other hand, during the drilling of the new wells, special attention is required if these

should be reaching the deep water table.

This is because of the risk that the new wells will cause water to flow from the semi-confined and

partially confined upper water table, into the deeper water table; such flows may be affected by

pollution from fertilizers and other pollutants affecting the aquifer where it runs nearest to the

surface.

For this reason, technical measures (described in the further sections of this report) will need to be

taken, so as to avoid that, by drilling the wells, communications are established between the

different levels of the water table.

5.1.4 The expected impacts during the project’s life

The analysis of the impacts were performed on water resources management, conservation,

overexploitation of groundwater resources, quality and control of water pollution. Special attention

was given to the aspects connected to environmental sustainability of the aquifer exploitation.



52

By using groundwater numerical flow models (Strazimiri 1995 and COWI 2011) it has been

possible to analyze the possible futures scenarios. The models were used to make predictive

analysis, but there are several limitations. The results of the models also identified several risks

linked to changes in the state of the environment, although these are much less relevant to the

situation on the ground, since the Fushe Milot Wellfield Area is already widely and heavily

subjected to anthropogenic pressure. In respect to cumulative impact on groundwater sources, the

rehabilitated Fushe Milot Wellfield site has been identified in line with numerical flow model. The

model also shows that Fushe Milot Wellfield area has no impact on Fushe Kuqe Basin in terms of

saline water intrusion.

5.1.5 The investigations considered as necessary before project implementation

A new groundwater model for Fushe Kuqe Basin should be set up and calibrated against current

piezometric data. The model should be based on the more sophisticated MODFLOW and SEAWAT

code. Construction of a mathematical model in order to provide a reliable groundwater balance, and

understanding of piezometric trends for different groundwater exploitation scenarios, especially for

the areas where future piezometric levels will be near or below sea-level (See Strazimiri et al 1995).

5.2 Geological and soil system

In evaluating the geological and soil component, the consultants have examined and synthesized all

the geological characteristics of the study area , such that it was possible to assess the relationship

and the impact of the infrastructures being planned with the in the wellfield area and along the

route of the planned main pipeline.

Therefore an overall picture has been drawn, based on the lithology the morphology and the

exogenous phenomena, forming the baseline from which the consultant has then focused more

specifically on the interaction between the proposed infrastructure and the surrounding geological

environment. Such information has then allowed us to identify the sectors which are most

vulnerable from the point of view of morphologic stability and /or exposed to hydro geological risks

and to identify the mitigation measures to be undertaken.

5.2.1 Geology and lithology

In general terms, the areas affected by the well fields and the transmission line forms part of the

deposition of the upper cretaceous, the Tortonian, the lower Pliocene and the quaternary. Deposits



53

of the upper cretaceous are present in the eastern part and limited spreads appear in the north-

eastern part of zone too. These deposits are dolomites combined with carbonate dolomites and

bioclasctic dolomites in thick layers. The thickness of the upper cretaceous deposition in the zone

varies from 250 m till 350 m. The Tortonian deposition spreads in the east of the zone. In the east, it

contacts with the upper cretaceous carbonates and in the west with the quaternary deposits.

Regarding lithology, they represent layers composed of siltstone, clays and sandstone. The lower

Pliocene is spread on the surface of the eastern part of the zone and under the quaternary deposits.

As to lithology, it represents combined layers of clays and sandstone. The quaternary deposits are

spread on the surface in the whole flat area.

The alluvial quaternary deposits consist of gravel, sandy gravel, and sand and to a small extent of

medium clays. The water bearing horizon is composed of gravel, sandy gravel and sands. They are

formed by a solid fluvial material sedimentation brought by Main River. The clays of medium grain

size, have a distribution in surface and cover the biggest part of the aquifer, they are placed above

the gravel layer which spreads in all the basin elongation. The clays are at shape of layers between

the gravels, their thickness ranges from 15 -30m.

5.2.2 Soil pollution and solid wastes

There was prior industrial activity and a solid waste disposal site near to the Fushe Kuqe wellfield

area. The possible risk is posed by mines and related industrial waste sites located at northern

section of the aquifer basin, in the former mining centers of Laci, Repsi, Rreshen and Kurbnesh.

The industrial activity ceased in 1990 and an EU-financed activity has enabled closure of the hot

spot with mine waste in an appropriate manner. Therefore, the proposed site is not under the risk of

direct groundwater pollution.


Consideration of the different route variants for the main transmission pipeline in relation to the

geological and hydro geological characteristics of the area has resulted in the following

observations regarding the project’s potential impacts on soils.

Slope stability

At the time of trench excavation, special attention needs to be paid to the following main

lithological and geomorphologic conditions:

intersection of morph types of rapid evolution (cones, ground debris);

intersection or pass close to forms of geomorphologic potential or actual disruption;



54

Conditions of stability of the side walls of the excavation.

The construction of the main transmission pipeline may cause impact on morphological and

hydrological conditions. These problems occur mainly in the hilly tract of the pipeline where there

is a presence of numerous active and inactive landslides, typical of the clay land surface. These

areas may be subject to soil erosion and landslides already under way in an ex-ante situation. In

particular, between the towns of Safetaj, Bize and Reka Koder, along the link road where the

pipeline will pass, there, are clay deposits that give rise to forms of erosion (badlands) in evolution.

5.2.4 The expected impacts during the project’s groundwater extraction phase

Risk of land subsidence

Land subsidence is a possible consequence of wellfield impact on subsurface water, caused by the

compaction of compressible sediments in and around areas of extensive groundwater pumping.

Land subsidence attributable to the compaction of aquifer systems is an often overlooked hazard

and an environmental consequence of groundwater withdrawal.

The alluvial plain of Fushe Kuqe is especially vulnerable because surface-water supplies are limited

and groundwater in unconsolidated aquifer is extensively relied upon for agriculture and other

purposes, with unregulated extraction rates. The coastal regions also are commonly affected

because they are often underlain by unconsolidated, compressible coastal plain and shallow marine

sediments. Some of potential hazards and environmental consequences include damage to

engineered structures (such as buildings, roadways, pipelines, aqueducts, sewerages, and well

casings), earth fissures, enhanced coastal and riverine flooding, loss of saltwater- and freshwater-

marsh ecosystems, and reactivation of surface faults creating new potential pathways for surface

runoff to contaminate aquifers.

The risks related to localized land subsidence as an outcome of the operation of the Project related

facilities could materialize. However, this is very unlikely to occur given that the wellfield is being

rehabilitated to its prior production level and no such prior occurances have been observed.

However, to mitigate against this risk, the project will support development of the groundwater

model and diligent development and implementation of groundwater monitoring and changes of

Durres water Supply operating policies, as the case may be.

5.3 Natural habitats



55

The Fushe Milot Wellfield is located in the hinterland of the natural reserve of Bregu i Matit, in a

rural area which has low ecological value and is not under any regime of protection. This area is

now heavily modified by agricultural and rural development, although in the orto-photograph's

maps of the project area it is still possible to see and read the ancient riverbeds which existed all

around the broad plain before the reclamation interventions (an example is the area surrounding

Patok).

The natural reserve of Bregu i Matit extends in the south of the Project to the mouth of Ishem River.

The route of the Project's pipeline will cross over the River through a pipe over it, producing no

relevant impact. From here the pipeline enters the Durres district crossing through a small

agricultural plain area which was drained several decades ago, and has a low ecological value.

Then the pipeline enters the hilly area of Ishmi, where the water pipeline follows rural roads that are

in very poor condition. The first section of the route passes near an open marine pine forest which is

developed on the lower northern slopes of the hills (North-East). Apart from this limited area, the

remaining forests are characterized by various Mediterranean scrub species and by a widespread

oak forest.

Descending along the southern slopes again of the hills, the pipeline enters a flat agricultural area.

Currently most of the area is occupied by farmland. Further along the route the first biotopes

encountered are those of Lalzi Bay, a Bay of sand with naturalistic value, because it constitutes the

source of sand which is deployed in the form of dunes accumulated through the wind action from

early embryonic dunes to those which are consolidated as mature ones. There are no erosion events

along the coast and at present it seems to be in balance with the supplied sediment of local rivers.

The pinewood forest is however threatened by two entrepreneurial initiatives in touristic sector

(residences/villas) and Golf courses.

After passing a drainage channel from the reclaimed area the pipeline continues on existing roads,

without affecting a coastal wetland characterized by a beautiful brackish lagoon of shallow water

which is a breeding and wintering site for many birds species (recent censuses of waterfowl have

identified this area as Important Bird Areas IBA: over 10,000 birds). Passing the drainage channel,

the pipeline’s route then follows existing agricultural ditches until it reaches the urban and

industrial area of Durres, crossing rural areas and gardens of private houses.



56

Based on above information, it can be stated that the Project related facilities will have no direct

negative impact on protected or important natural habitats, since these are not present along the

route of pipeline, nor at the Wellfield Area.

FIGURE 10 IMPORTANT BIRD AREAS (PATOKU LAGOON AND LALZI BAY)

5.3.1 The investigations considered necessary before project implementation

The project will not affect directly any areas of high ecological value; further, the route of the

pipeline runs almost entirely alongside the existing roads, and on a few tracts, through areas of

intensive cultivation. For these reasons, there is no reason to conduct further, in-depth studies for

the fauna, flora, and biodiversity aspects of the proposed project impact. In respect to potential

impact on aquatic coastal habitat, the information presented in the hydrology report shows that this

is unlikely to occur as a result of Project development, since there will be no additional water

abstractions above already approved quantities. However, definite answer on this could be

provided only after additional comprehensive survey and monitoring activities in the River Basin,

which would last several years and are considered beyond scope of this Report and this Project.



57


The work to position the pipeline – especially at the building site itself- may produce some slight,

temporary, and localized forms of environmental impacts, which are reversible and temporary in

nature (these are related to noise, dust, traffic disturbance, temporary storage of material,

disturbance to local wildlife). Project implementation will not produce any significant conversion

of natural habitats, and the mitigation measures in respect to localized impacts could be fully

mitigated by applying site-specific measures specified in EMP and code of good construction

practice.


The Project has no relevant negative impact on natural habitats and on land use; it integrates with

the existing national and regional development plans, and is not in conflict with the conservation of

natural habitats, neither in the area nor with the natural ecosystems.

The facilities to be constructed under the Project will not cause the conversion or degradation of

any natural habitats, nor will it negatively affect ecologically important species.

On the other hand, mitigation measures associated with the project could be an opportunity to

enhance the value of natural habitats, through mitigation measures which may support ecological

balance and reduce pressures on the eco system. The extraction of water from the deep underground

aquifer, if managed carefully and responsibly, will not affect the levels of the upper water table, thus

preventing any impact on natural habitats.

The route of the pipeline runs alongside the existing secondary roads for most of its extension, and

only a very minor part of the route affects agricultural or marginal areas, where the ex-ante

conditions may easily be restored once the main has been placed. The width and the depth of the

trenches to be excavated are small enough (less than 2 m wide and up to 3 m deep) that the absence

of negative impacts can be ensured by applying code of good construction practice. On the other

hand, such earth-moving works may improve, albeit only locally and marginally, the condition of

the local roads, which are presently in very poor state.



58

FIGURE 11 PROTECTED AREAS IN PROJECT AREA



59

As regards OP 4.36 Forest, the project will not produce any significant degradation or conversion of

critical forest areas and critical forest habitats. The route along the existing forest roads is selected

as transmission main route at places where the pipeline is to cross the hills. However, the impact on

forest areas is not expected, as the civil work related disturbance will be only along the existing

forest roads and affect strip which is less than 2 meters wide. Any potential negative impact is

therefore easily mitigated by application of good engineering practice. The forest crossing section

of transmission main is given in Figure 12.

FIGURE 12 EXISTING ROADS IN THE ISHMI HILLS AT PIPLEINE CROSSING

The project is not contradicting any international treaty or agreement concerning the environment.

Mitigating measures (which are detailed hereinafter), that include planting of vegetation will be

done using autochthonous trees suited for this bioclimatic region, in harmony with the site’s

potential vegetation as functional to the specific fito-sociological component , with the nature of



60

soils, with the depth of the water table, of altitude and of exposure to sunlight, and also in harmony

with the neighboring habitats.

The project does not imply any gathering or commercialization of wood products. It does not

interfere with the vegetation biomass and with the potential productivity; nor does it have any effect

on the mechanization of forestry operations.

5.4 Air quality

5.4.1 Sources of atmospheric pollution and their potential impact on the project area.

Sources of air pollution in the project area are related with the urban/industrial areas of the Durres

city. The other major pollution source is the “Durres hot spot”. The Durres hotspot sites are former

industrial facilities where hazardous waste is causing unacceptable human exposure requiring

urgent risk reduction measures. One hotspot is the chemical waste storage located approximately 10

km north to the center of Durres City at the southeast foot of the Bishti Palles Cape. In this hotspot

there are three storage buildings overloaded with chemicals like carbon disulfide, methanol,

dimethyl amine, HCH residue etc. The second hotspot is the chromate plant, the chromate dumpsite

and the lindane at the former Durres chemical plant located about 6.5 north to the center of the city

of Durres and less than 1 km south of Porto Romano. The site is located on the Durres Plain, at the

foot of Durres Hills. The chromate waste was dumped between the former chemical plant and the

drainage channels in a layer approximately 1.5-2 m high. Two highly polluted areas represent the

Industrial area of Durres located about 3 km east to the city center, and the poultry farm located

about 5 km northeast to the city center. While most of the former industrial establishments currently

are not functioning the poultry farm is normally working. No specific studies of the transport of

pollutants by the atmosphere and rainfalls into the water have been made in Albania. Thus the

amount of chemical pollution, falling out into the surface waters through atmospheric settling is

unknown.

Car ownership has increased at least three times since 1990, traffic congestion has made movement

painfully slow and the resulting air pollution at key junctions is serious enough to damage health.

Further, the Durres landfill produces toxic fumes from the fires which are lit, and judged to produce

highly cancerogenic emissions (polyaromatic hydrocarbons, dioxin, etc.)8

8 “Rapid Environmental assessment for the Industrial and Energetic Parks at Porto Romano, Durres, Albania”

Landel Mills, May 2008



61

5.4.2 The investigations considered as necessary before project implementation

While on the one hand atmospheric pollution certainly is a concern in the project area, especially

because of industrial pollution and the burning of waste, the project is expected to have an

insignificant impact on worsening this situation, as detailed in the paragraphs which follow.

Therefore, while it is definitely recommended that a major effort be deployed to address the issues

of solid waste collection and disposal and to solve the complex and pressing issue of environmental

hotspots and toxic pollution, this falls outside the scope of this Project. Consequently, it is

considered unnecessary to conduct further investigations of air quality for the specific purpose of

the present Project.


Air quality during the construction of the will be locally affected by traffic and excavations.

The Albanian norm refers to the norms for emission to the air (VKM No. 435, date 12.09.2002) and

the norms for urban air quality (VKM No. 803, date 04.12.2003) respectively9.

Construction work like construction of reservoirs, tanks, pipelines, water plant, and wells can cause

pollution loads partly exceeding the norms limits, due to the earth moving machines and trucks.

However, air circulation towards and from the sea can be expected to affect air quality in a positive

way, such that the pollutant source could have only a point source effect.

No data on noise levels are available for the area. There are no significant point sources of noise

emissions. Vehicular traffic and associated noise emissions are associated mainly with the local

road connecting Tirana and Durres areas, and the traffic connected.

The construction works will generate noise from the earth moving machines, but only for a very

limited period of time, and further this will take place in sparsely populated areas (with the

exception of work taking place in Durres itself).


The quality of air at the location of the pumping station will not be affected in a significant way by

the functioning of the plants, of the pumps and of the complementary gears.

During the exercise phase, that is to say during the running of the plant, impact on air quality due to

the movements of machinery will be negligible.

9 “Rapid Environmental assessment for the Industrial and Energetic Parks at Porto Romano, Durres, Albania”

Landel Mills, May 2008



62

Noise caused by functioning of the plant is related to point sources such as electricity cabs, pumps

site, wellfields. The effects of these sources will be limited to a restricted area close to these sites.

The project is designed mainly in rural areas with wide cultivations, grassy fields, small villages

and scattered houses.

It is therefore concluded that the project’s operational phase will have no relevant impact on air

quality and noise.

5.5 Climate change

According to a recent World Bank study, Albania ranks amongst the most affected by climate

change among the ECA countries and the most vulnerable to its impacts10

.

The previous studies on the present project and on the water sector in Durres– including those of IC

Consulenten, and COWI) have not taken into account the impact of climate change. Although

predictions on climate change have a low degree of confidence, and high degrees of variable values,

they can be taken into account in planning the present project, so that adequate mitigating measures

against the risks from climate change can be built into the project’s design.

5.5.1 Rainfall

Projections for future scenarios, based on Global Circulation Models predict that rainfall will

diminish considerably (World Bank Climate Change Knowledge Portal)11

. The magnitude and

timeframe of this phenomenon is such that it is likely to have a relevant impact on the present

project.

Over the 2020-2039 period, GCMs predictions for Albania are of a variation in rainfall which the

models estimate with different levels, (but of 15 different GCMs, only 2 predict an increase in

rainfall, the remaining 13 concurring in predicting a decrease, with a peak of 32mm loss in the

month of October for one model, and 8 models showing peak losses of 20 plus mm in different

months).

10

Adapting to climate change in Europe and Central Asia, World Bank, June 2009 11

http://sdwebx.worldbank.org/climateportal/index.cfm?page=country_future_climate&ThisRegion=Europe&ThisCc

ode=ALB



63

FIGURE 13 - VARIATION OF PREDICTIONS IN CLIMATE CHANGE MODELS-RAINFALL 2020-2039

Another 10 years down the line, and the projections show peak losses of 25 mm rather than 20mm-

the situation has got worse by 25%.

FIGURE 14 VARIATION OF PREDICTIONS IN CLIMATE CHANGE MODELS-RAINFALL 2040-2059

Such decrease is most significant when compared with average rainfall in the 1990-2007 period and

concurs with UN predictions of an average loss of 30% of rainfall in the Mediterranean region over

the same period.

Unfortunately, although climate change predictions are far from being an exact science; so far the

predicted phenomena have, if anything being taking place at a faster pace than predicted.

A decrease in rainfall will exacerbate competition between different demands for water, and at the

same time reduce the recharging of the underground aquifer.

It will also mean an increase in water pollution, as the pollutants will be less diluted.



64

At the same time, an increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events will mean

faster water runoff – and consequently, a smaller percentage of the rainfall will be finding its way

into the aquifer. The CGMs return a prediction of drought affecting up to 3 million people in

Albania.

All of the above factors conjure in making the water supply systems more vulnerable, and increase

the urgency to develop a whole group of climate-resilient solutions related to sustainable use of

water resources. However, the activities related to climate change, although very important, are

considered outside the scope of this Project, and would need to tackled using concentrated efforts of

GoA and wide international community.

5.5.2 Sea Level Rise and Coastal Erosion

Among the effects of climate change, Sea Level Rise (SLR) is perhaps the most difficult to

quantify, as witness the fact that estimates vary considerably in the CGM-based predictions.

This is well represented in the figure below, projecting SLR in the Mediterranean under different

scenarios. According to these projections, Albania would be affected, but in less severe way than

other countries.



65

FIGURE 15 SEA LEVEL RISE PROJECTIONS IN THE MEDITERRENEAN SEA

To sum up, projections of SLR regarding Albania at the 2050 horizon vary between 13 cm and 50

cm. Just as worrying as SLR is the severe coastal erosion which affects the coastline in the Durres

region. This phenomenon can be observed in several places on the Adriatic coast in Albania with

the most visible effects near Shëngjin and Golem beaches.

5.5.3 The investigations to be carried out during project implementation.

Given the nature of the possible climate change impacts on this project (essentially affecting the

recharge of the aquifer) these should be taken into consideration for monitoring and mitigating

purposes, as it would not be possible to obtain operational indications prior to project

implementation.



66


The impacts of Climate Change on the project will take place in the medium and long term;

therefore they will not affect its construction phase.


Climate change is expected to have an impact on the project’s life, and at the same time, the project

itself will have an impact on how the region will be able to cope with climate change, through the

necessary adaptations. Adequate mitigating measures and monitoring will be required, as described

in the relevant sections of the EMP report. These are essentially the same ones which are foreseen

for the purpose of managing Water resources and cumulative impacts, the difference being that

climate change will be factored into the hydrological model and medium-long term projections will

be produced, on the basis of realistically foreseeable climate trends.

Variations in rainfall

These variations (decrease) will affect the water balance in the region, with resources becoming

increasingly scarce, and increasing competition over their use.

Higher loads of pollutants will impact on the quality of surface waters, and could threaten the

underground aquifers on which the Durres water supply relies.

The decrease in rainfall and the change in the intensity and frequency of rainfall will negatively

affect the recharge of the underground aquifers.

On the other hand, the new wellfield and pipeline can be a precious instrument for the management

of what safe water will be available in the region- but it may be necessary to review its utilization in

terms of balancing its distribution between different stakeholders in the region, rather than

dedicating 100% of the resource to the sole use of the Durres urban population.

SLR and Coastal erosion

Both of these phenomena are likely to increase the risk of saline intrusion, which would have a

direct impact in terms of limiting the amount of water that can be safely pumped from the

wellfields. The main pipeline, running along the coastline and in several spots along sand dunes,

may be directly affected, in the long term, by coastal erosion and sea level rise.



67

5.6 Physical cultural resources

5.6.1 Archaeological areas and historical buildings

Founded as Epidamnos, circa 627 BC by the Greek, Durres is one of the oldest cities in Europe. It

was part of the ancient region of Illyria and its region was called Epidamnia. Over the centuries,

the city changed hands several times, as the military powers in the region prized it for it military

and commercial importance- and it was dominated by the Illyrians, the Romans, the Byzantines, the

Republic of Venice, and the Serbians.

The most important archeological site in Durres is the Amphitheatre (2nd century AD), located in

the center of the city, it is one of the largest amphitheaters in the Balkan Peninsula, once having a

capacity of 20,000 people.

An unknown quantity of archeological remains has been destroyed during the excavations for new

constructions, with the first case of construction being halted to safeguard archeological remains

dating from September 2010 with the find of a Byzantine tomb in Durres.12

Experts believe that Byzantine tombs are a frequent find in the region, especially in the proximity of

Durres and Porto Romano.13

As in the present state of knowledge it is not possible to predict with

certainty whether the project shall have an impact on Physical Cultural resources, the following

precautions will be taken.

5.6.2 General Pre-Construction Impacts and Mitigation Measures

During the preliminary phases of construction, in sensitive areas such as the Porto Romano, it is

proposed that a suitably qualified archaeologist will monitor soil stripping, or ground preparation

works. Based on the Albanian Law No. 9048, of 2003 on Cultural Heritage, Article 47, and

Contractor prior starting the works on site should receive a written approval letter from the National

Archaeological Council (NAC) which shall conduct the superficial survey on the site. In addition,

the Contractor should sign a pre-contract agreement with the NAC.

Archeological finds of importance might necessitate amending the design. In the event of discovery

of archaeological finds or remains, the relevant authority should be notified immediately. The area

will in that case be subsequently investigated and fenced off, thus preventing further development

to take place in that area until the site is explored and conserved, as necessary.

12

“Medieval archives” September 23rd

2010 13

Skender Bushi,, personal comment, September 2010

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epidamnos

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_cities_by_time_of_continuous_habitation

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Europe

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Illyria

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balkan



68

5.6.3 General Construction Impacts and Mitigation Measures

All construction work will be confined to the minimum possible. In cases where archaeological

sites could be compromised by construction activity, these will be protected by substantial fencing

to prevent inadvertent or negligent damage to the archaeology.

Construction compounds will be placed in areas free from known archaeological sites or

archaeologically sensitive areas.

If archaeological or religious artifacts are discovered then the Albanian Archaeological Service

(AAS) of the Albanian Ministry of Culture, Tourism, Youth and Sports should be immediately

informed. A team of field specialists of AAS & Durres Archaeological Service should then visit the

site in order to identify the relicts.

5.6.4 Assumptions and Limitations

It is assumed that the archaeological resource baseline is incomplete. For instance, archaeological

remains can remain undetected beneath buildings, superficial geological deposits, woodland and

permanent pasture. It is assumed that the presence of archaeological remains is quite unlikely as the

biggest part of the survey area was a marsh unfavorable for any human activities. However, some

attention needs to be given at Porto Romano area where the potential presence of findings is higher.

In such cases, chance find provisions that are standard in World Bank-financed contracts should be

sufficient to ensure a protocol is in place in the event that any cultural heritage elements are

detected during the course of implementation. Furthermore, the obligations of the Albanian Law on

Cultural Heritage must be followed in all these cases and it should be part of the contractual duties.

With regard to temporary construction sites and access routes on brown-field sites it is assumed that

disturbance would be limited to the top 300mm – 500mm of the soil profile and that there would be

no impact on any archaeological remains.

5.6.5 Conclusions, Recommendations and Residual Impacts

The new transmission main will pass near some potential sites containing archaeological remains..

During the works for the construction of the pipelines, constant collaboration will take place with

specialized archaeologists of AAS in order to minimize potential damage to the sites and

monuments. Where findings should occur, consultations will be furthered with the Albanian

Archaeological Service and relevant authorities in order to elaborate further the required mitigation

measures. The obligations of the Albanian Law on Cultural Heritage will be followed in all these

cases and it should be part of the contractual obligations of future contractors. No visual

interference is foreseen with historical buildings, since the main will be running underground.



69


Any impacts will be limited to the construction phase.

5.7 Cumulative and Long Term Impacts

A reduction of rainfall and consequently in the recharging of the underground aquifer , such as may

be caused by climate change, could in the long term adversely affect the infiltration of water in the

ground. This may result not only from an overall reduction in rainfall quantities, but also from a

change in their character, by which precipitations would become shorter and more intense, thus

reducing the soil’s capability of absorbing them. This would result in turn in an increase of the

pollution load. The following could have long term impacts, and be further exacerbated by the

effects of climate change.

1. Excessive lowering of the groundwater water table;

2. Seawater intrusion;

3. Groundwater Pollution.

However, these impacts would not be sudden, and can be prevented through:

Adequate monitoring of the state of the aquifer (levels, pressure, quality)

Management of the quantity of water to be extracted, in combination with an advanced

computer model.

In respect to cumulative impacts, the activities under the Project could contribute to reduction of

water table due to simultaneous overexploitation of existing wellfields; deterioration of Mati River

water quality; deterioration of aquatic ecosystems that benefit from discharge of Milot aquifer into

the Adriatic etc. However, present state of knowledge is not such that definite answers on these

questions could be provided and suggest that they be addressed as a part of the currently ongoing

World Bank activities in relation to establishment of River Basin Management Plans.

5.8 Analysis of alternatives and their impact on the environment

5.8.1 No-project option

This option would leave the population of Durres with a severe water shortage (currently estimated

at 400 l/s14

). People would resort to using unsafe water sources, and this would affect especially the

most vulnerable social groups. In this scenario, urban consumption of already polluted surface

water would increase and the same water would then be discharged as highly polluted wastewater

into the Adriatic Sea. The pressure related to lack of urban water supply will only increase, creating

14

Nicolin Braho, pers. Comm. 2011



70

the situation which is unacceptable for the local and central government. Clearly, this situation

cannot continue.

The existing wastewater amounts will continue to be discharged into the Adriatic as untreated

waste, which will have negative impacts on sea quality around Durres. On the other hand, the Fushe

Milot aquifer, which the project plans to use would remain as unused reserve/resource, which can

be utilized if other developments should materialize in Durres area.

Under this alternative, the issue of lack of safe and reliable water provision to Durres would most

likely be solved through construction of the Arapaj Dam - a facility which may be required when

the additional water supply provided under the present Project will no longer suffice (however, this

is not expected for the next 20 or more years, provided that Project is implemented as planned,

including the comprehensive water demand management activities. The Dam would certainly have

a considerable negative environmental impact, with its construction and commissioning time lasting

over a decade – all of which would have further negative impacts on Durres, which would continue

to deteriorate.

Therefore, the “No Project” alternative does not seem to offer advantages in terms of environmental

impact, provided that the present Project will be implemented together with the Environmental

Mitigation measures as being recommended.

5.8.2 Alternative sources of water supply

Alternative sources of water supply have been the subject of an in-depth study by the Austrian Firm

IC Consulenten, from January to August 2008. These consultants examined the existing water

supply infrastructure, demographic data, projected water demand, and water quality; they analyzed

existing wellfields, water reservoirs, water courses and aquifers; they fed the results into a computer

model, and finally came up with 7 alternative solutions (3 wellfields and 4 surface reservoirs)15

which they then proceeded to compare in terms of advantages and disadvantages.

These alternatives, (See Figure 16) were namely:

Wellfields: Kushe Milleo, Vidhas, Kalush;

Surface Reservoirs: Bovilla (existing), Tujani (dam to be built), Skorona (dam to be built) – the

existing reservoir at Maskuria was judged as not offering any additional capacity.

15

IC Consulenten had dismissed, early in their study, the option of developing a desalinization plant, on the grounds of

comparative costs.



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Comparison among these alternatives indicated that the Fushe – Milot alternative was the most

economical one among those which could yield a sufficient quantity of water to respond to

projected demand (the Kalusha wellfield being able to yield only 200 l/s and the enhancement of

the Bovilla reservoir 500 l/s; all other alternatives being considerably more costly).

Also, the Fushe Milot alternative offered the fastest implementation (4-5 years) of all options, with

surface reservoirs requiring 8-9 years to become operational.

IC Consulenten did not go into a comparative analysis of environmental impacts, except to state

that surface reservoirs would have a more severe impact.

The considerations we have developed in sections 5.1”Water resources” and 5.5 “Climate change”

of the present report confirm that while the Fushe Milot option is the only viable one known at

present, it needs to be carefully monitored, using a new model which must be more sophisticated.

Simulations of climate change effects need also to be factored in the management of the wellfield,

by inclusion of appropriate algorithms in the computer model to be used.



72

FIGURE 16 WATER SUPPLY ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED BY IC CONSULENTEN



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5.9 Alternatives for the routing of the pipeline and the location of pumping stations.

The designers, COWI, have considered four technical alternatives, with different solutions

regarding the route of the main transmission pipeline and of the location of the pumping station.

Two possible locations for the pump station were considered:

a) Adjacent to the existing pump station of Fushe Kuqe which has the advantages that:

The existing power supply sub-station can be used

No additional operations staff is necessary

One control unit for the complete supply of Durres would be sufficient

However, this location would require addition 8 km transmission main from the wellfield to the

pump station and 7 km transmission main to Durres which increases the construction and

pumping cost. This solution is called subsequently VARIANT 1

b) Adjacent to the existing polder pump station (Hydrovore). This solution has lower construction

and operating cost, but the existing power substation at Hydrovore would require upgrading and

an extension of the 35 kV power line from the existing substation would be necessary. Also, the

staff cost with an additional group of operating personnel will increase.

Two alternative routes for the main transmission line were also studied and compared:

Western Route

This involves the western route which crosses the Ishmi hill range at a maximum altitude of 175 m

and passes along the coast in existing roads to Durres. This route was principally favored by Lotti

and RODECO in their studies.

Eastern Route

The longer eastern route passes on the eastern side of the Ishmi hill range along the main road until

it joins the route of the Fushe Krujë transmission main for a section of 6 km. After that the western

route will be laid along the railway track Tirana-Durres because the construction situation in Vora

does not allow other routes. After Sukth the pipe will follow the route of the Tirana-Durres

Highway until Keneta from where it branches of to Durres town.



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FIGURE 17 - VARIANT 1 - ROUTES OF PIPELINE AND LOCATION OF PUMP STATION



75

FIGURE 18 VARIANT 2 - ROUTES OF PIPELINE AND LOCATION OF PUMP STATION



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The Variant solutions are described in the table that follows

TABLE 1 SUMMARY OF INVESTMENT ALTERNATIVES16

Variant 1

Alternative east Alternative west

5.9.1. The new pump station will be built

close to existing pump station, a new well

field (9 wells, 62 l/s per, total 558 l/s) will be

developed south of the existing wellfield and

one additional well will be built in Fushe

Kuqe (62) l/s. The water will be pumped to

Durres via the eastern route.

5.9.2 The new pump station will be built close to

existing pump station, a new well field (9 wells,

62 l/s per, total 558 l/s) will be developed south

of the existing wellfield and one additional well

will be built in Fushe Kuqe (62) l/s. The water

will be pumped to Durres via the western route.

Variant 2

Alternative east Alternative west

5.9.3 The new pump station will be built

close to existing polder pump station

(hydrovore); a new well field (5 production

wells + 1 stand-by well, 126 l/s per, total 630

l/s) will be developed south of the existing

wellfield. The water will be pumped to

Durres via the eastern route.

5.9.4 The new pump station will be built close to

existing polder pump station (Hydrovore); a new

well field (5 production wells + 1 stand-by well,

126 l/s per, total 630 l/s) will be rehabilitated in

the existing Fushe Milot wellfield. The water

will be pumped to Durres via the western route.

COWI’s reports further state:

“The Consultant has undertaken a review of the alternatives to the existing transmission main and

decided on the Western Route which crosses the Ishmi hill and ranges from a maximum altitude of

175 m passing along the coast in existing roads to Durres. It will be laid along the Tirana-Durres

railway track because the construction situation in Vora does not allow other routes. After Sukth

the pipe will follow the route of the Tirana-Durres Highway until Keneta from where it branches of

to Durres town. The new main should be connected to the reservoir 2 (2x 2000 m3) and reservoir 1

(3600 m3). Because the elevation of these reservoirs (57m ground elevation) is not sufficient to

reach the town quarters Spitalla and Porto Romano a branch is foreseen to supply the exiting

(however presently defunct) reservoir in Porto Romano which would require rehabilitation. Given

the advantages of other nature that are described in the COWI reports, this choice is the correct

one. The table below gives a detailed comparison in terms of the advantages and disadvantages for

each of the two alternatives.

16

COWI Inception report, August 2011



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TABLE 2 COMPARISON OF VARIANTS with main considerations

Var. 1 Western

Route

Var. 2 Western

Route

Var. 1 Eastern

Route

Var. 2 Eastern

Route

Economic Higher Staff

Cost.

Minimum Capital

Cost.

Lowest AIEC.

Higher Staff Cost.

Lowest Energy

Cost.

Highest Capital

Cost, Highest

AIEC.

Lower Staff Cost.

Highest Energy

Cost.

Lower Staff Cost

Technical Break Pressure

Tank. Required

Pipe To Be

Drained Easier

Due To Higher

Gradients.

Longer

Construction

Time.

Pipe Is At

Maximum

Capacity.

Pipe Laying

More Difficult,

Partly In

Presence Of

Groundwater

Break Pressure

Tank. Required

Pipe To Be

Drained Easier

Due To Higher

Gradients.

Shortest Pipe

Route.

Longer

Construction

Pipe.

Better Control of

Pipe Route.

More Difficult

Foundation of

Pipe Station.

Pipe Has Extra

Capacity For

Higher Flows.

Pipe Laying More

Difficult, Partly In

Presence Of

Groundwater.

Highest

Pressures.

Better Access for

Maintenance.

Longest Pipe

Route.

Shortest

Construction

Time.

Pipe Is At

Maximum

Capacity.

Better Access

for

Maintenance.

Shortest

Construction

Time.

More Difficult

Foundation of

Pipe Station.

Pipe Has Extra

Capacity For

Higher Flows.



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It should be noted that in terms of land acquisition/expropriation for the pump station, all solutions

are identical because the pipe routing remains in public land and the only land requirements are

for the sites of the pump station and the new wellfield. From the details obtained so far, the Western

route, Variant 2 has a slightly higher environmental impact and poses more difficult construction,

but it has operational advantages, especially the lower risk of water theft plays a great role here.

This, together with the significantly lower investment and AIEC would make it the preferable option

for the project.”

Our team has carefully analyzed the assessment of COWI, and concurs entirely with their findings.

Therefore the chosen alternative is in our opinion, correct and implementable.

5.10 Conclusions of the EIA

5.10.1 Impacts

The project will have a definite beneficial impact on the socio economic conditions in Durres and in

the villages of communes Thumana, Fushe Kuqe, Ishem, Manza, Katund i Ri, Xhafzotaj, Sukth,

Rashbull. The project might have a negative impact on the rural populations if their wells should be

affected, an eventuality which should be offset by appropriate monitoring and management of the

wellfield.

Probable risks of the project under EIA Process are negatively affecting water resources by the

excessive lowering of the water tables, intrusion of seawater and pollution from the infiltration of

surface waters. Appropriate measures and monitoring are presented in the EMP report.

Var. 1

Western Route

Var. 2 Western

Route

Var. 1 Eastern

Route

Var. 2

Eastern Route

Environmenta

l/Social

Less Disruption

from

Construction

Work Due To

More Remote,

Less Populated

Area.

Pipe Passes

Forest Area,

Impact During

Construction.

Less Disruption

from Construction

Work Due To

More Remote,

Less Populated

Area.

Less Settlement

Along Pipe Route,

Less Risk Of

Water Theft.

Routing Along

Already

Developed Areas

Hence Less

Overall

Environmental

Impact.

High Risk of

Water Theft.

Routing Along

Already

Developed

Areas Hence

Less Overall

Environmental

Impact.

High Risk of

Water Theft.



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The project’s impact on soils is expected to be minor, save for the risk of localized subsistence,

which cannot be ruled out, even though the experience of similar projects in the area has not

produced such effects. Should this risk materialize, it is expected to affect only reduced and a very

localized areas, and be dealt with as and when it arises. Appropriate monitoring at the beginning of

the exploitation of the new wellfield is recommended.

The project will have negligible impacts on air quality, and natural habitats.

The project is not expected to have an impact on physical cultural resources, but a remote

possibility of such impact exists and a protocol to address this possibility is recommended in the

EMP report.

The project will have a minor impact in terms of involuntary resettlement.

5.10.2 Triggering of World Bank’s OPs

The EIA and EMP studies follow the indications and guidelines of the Operational Policy for the

Environmental Assessment procedure (OP 4.01).

The project which is assessed has environmental and social purposes and effects. It aims to develop

and improve the present water supply system to enhance water quality for the urban and rural

system and reduce water loses along the route.

The consultants are satisfied that the technical solutions have been chosen to achieve efficiently the

desired outcomes and to avoid, mitigate, or minimize adverse environmental and social impacts of

the whole project.

The selected technical solutions and the scenario seek to outline a low impact network water

supply, considering also the natural features of the territory.

The project has taken in to account the features of the water components to achieve solutions for

water conservation, reduction of water loses, protection of quality parameters, better allocation of

water resources along the project region.

The project has included analysis of salinity problems to find solutions for preventing intrusion of

seawater which may occur during exploitation if inappropriate management is applied.

The project has included analysis of salinity's problems for find out solutions for preventing

intrusion of seawater which may occur during excavation (such as management practices to control

water pollution, building of the pipelines network along the roadways (i.e. adjacent to the rural and

forest roads) and building of new boreholes in safer areas).



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With regards to Natural Resources, Forests and Physical Cultural Resources, the project will not

cause relevant adverse impacts in the construction phase neither in the operational phase.

The chosen technical solution aims to preserve local ecosystems and also to minimize the

overexploitation of groundwater resources, giving priority to the provision of adequate water and

sanitation services for the urban and rural population of the Durres region.

The pipeline will be constructed along the existing roads and in the rural areas affected by the

project there is the intensive agricultural (wheat) production and isolated houses. Only in the urban

area of Durres the project may slightly interfere with residential areas or cultural resources. The

project does not impact any of the high value ecosystems.

Landscape will not be directly affected by the project. There will be no visual impacts because the

pipeline will be built almost entirely below the ground level, and the only visible structures will be

the pump station, well heads, and bulk reservoirs. Only during the excavations it may be possible to

uncover some unknown archaeological elements. Any action in this respect will be defined in

agreement with the Albanian Archaeological Service.

From the socio-economic point of view, the present study, as well as the “DRN-ACER Durres

Water pipeline Resettlement action plan and Social Assessment” have concluded that, while the

present project does not warrant it in itself by its minimal impacts, carrying out a major cleanup of

soil and water resources in the rural areas is a high priority and urgent action, as pollution levels are

inacceptable.

The assessment report and therefore the project have considered the cross-sect oral impacts as the

project activities (above all during the construction phase).

Finally, the Environmental Impact Assessment analysis of the project has led to definition of

actions and solutions which allow to protect, manage and respect as much as possible natural

ecosystem, forestry resources, physical resources, groundwater and surface water components.

The EMP plan will define monitoring measures to control and prevent likely impacts and also

mitigations and compensations actions to reduce as much as possible what impact cannot not be

avoided, and to prevent severe impact on the water resources as would result from inappropriate

management.

The World Bank’s Operational Policies used for defining and assessing the magnitude of the

project’s impacts and to outline the mitigation actions are:



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- OP 4.04 Natural Habitats; TRIGGERED: The pipeline main follows mostly existing roads, and

consists of a shallow trench and manholes. Valuable natural habitats are at sufficient distance such

that disturbance during construction will be not existing or negligible and that there shall be no

disturbance at all during the exploitation phase. However, the Pipeline route crosses forest area at

Ishimi Hill area with an approximate distance of 9,000 meters, comprised of marches and

agricultural fields with a protection category of IV, according to Albanian Legislation. In this

section, the transmission main follows mostly existing roads, and consists of a shallow trench and

manholes. Forests are at sufficient distance such that disturbance during construction will be

absolutely minimal (please refer to section 5.3 “Natural habitats”) and that there shall be no

disturbance at all during operation phase. The reservoirs will be placed in built up areas, and the

pumping station is adjacent to the site of the pre-existing hydrovore, such that it shall not produce a

disturbance of present (ex-ante) conditions. Pre-construction mitigation has taken place by

designing the route of the pipeline transmission way in such a way as to minimize impact on natural

ecosystems, namely by following existing roads for almost the entire length of the pipeline. In

addition, the EMP identifies additional measures for the construction phase to mitigate remaining

impacts on natural habitats.

- OP 4.11 Physical Cultural Resources; NOT TRIGGERED at the state of present knowledge.

Monitoring and mitigation measures have been identified in the EMP to manage chance finds

during the construction phase.

- OP 4.12 Involuntary Resettlement; TRIGGERED: To minimize resettlement effects for

establishment of the water pipeline it was reassured by the project design, that the densely

populated private lands are avoided as much as possible. This is confirmed through Resettlement

Action Plan (RAP) study, showing that the planned water pipeline in most of its length passes

along the right-of-way the existing urban and rural roads and traverse in some cases pastures and

valleys property of public domain (commune lands). However, the inevitable private land affected

is comprised of 34 agriculture plots owned by 28 land owners in total, amounting to 3,487 m2. RAP

reveals that the only affected parties from land acquisition, for the construction of the new Water

Pipeline, are the private land owners. A total of 28 land owners are identified to be expropriated

according to the Albanian legislation in force.

- OP 4.37 Dams; NOT TRIGGERED: The project does not involve any works similar to a dam, nor

does it affect any existing dams in any way.



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- OP 4.36 Forests; NOT TRIGGERED: The project does not involve cutting down or using the

forest for productive purposes.

- OP 7.50 Projects in International Waters; NOT TRIGGERED: The project does not have any

relevant negative impact on International waters related to the Water Supply Component. Water is

being extracted from an aquifer located within the boundaries of Albania without relationship to

countries contiguous to Albania.

- OP 7.60 Projects in Disputed Areas; NOT TRIGGERED: There are no disputed areas in the

project area.



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6 PROJECT COMPONENT 2- WASTEWATER INVESTMENTS

The project’s Component 2: Wastewater Investments is designed to finance priority wastewater

investments aimed at enhancing the existing sewerage network’s capacity to handle the increased

water supply in an environmentally and socially sustainable manner, including upgrading of critical

parts of the sewerage network and provision of high-powered sewer cleaning equipment.

This project falls within the framework of the EU’s set of interventions in support of water

management in Albania, which are summarized in the table below.

These interventions, in turn, fall within a comprehensive water strategy, comprehensively described

in IC Consulenten’s “Water and Wastewater Management Plan” of November 2011.

That document provides a clear strategic framework for the water sector, within which the EU’s

support to the Water sector in Albania is to be developed.



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6.1 The need for the project

The existing wastewater network in parts of Durres is in very poor condition, resulting in leakage of

wastewater and overflow of wastewater during heavy rains.

The project intervention area is at present served by an existing concrete pipe gravity main

collector, and by six lift pumping stations (of which two are presently not functioning). This system

was constructed in the mid-1970.

6.2 Description of the Wastewater component

This project component is designed to rehabilitate the wastewater system in downtown Durres

(between Ura e Dajlanit to Perroi i Agait) and to connect the wastewater network with the new

Wastewater Treatment Plant, constructed in the Kenetes Zone (to the north of the Durres – Tirana

state highway SH2) in an area that was once a salt marsh but is now under development as a low-

rise service industry and residential suburb.

FIGURE 19 – MAP OF PROJECT AREA FOR COMPONENT 2 (WASTEWATER INVESTMENTS)



85

FIGURE 20 – SATELLITE IMAGE OF PROJECT AREA FOR COMPONENT 2 (WASTEWATER

INVESTMENTS)

6.3 Description of the works

The wastewater component is divided in two lots:

LOT 2A:

The sewage system to be constructed covers main, secondary and tertiary wastewater collection

network made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipes of outside diameters ranging from a

maximum of 1000 mm to a minimum of 280mm, together with the refurbishment of four existing

pumping stations and the construction of four new pumping stations.



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The sewerage system, running from Ura e Dajlanit (the entrance to Durres) to Perroi i Agait. This

includes the installation of a primary, secondary and tertiary network of sewers in the Plazh (beach)

area of Durres between Ura e Dajlanit and Perroi i Agait.

The primary network comprises 6,313m of 315 to 1000mm main collector gravity sewer and

2,481m of 280 to 710mm sewer rising mains together with the refurbishment of four existing

pumping stations and the construction of four new pumping stations. The gravity sections of the

main collector incorporate HDPE manholes.

Except for a 3km section along the beach, installation of pipe work is generally in public roads in

close proximity to buildings, including high-rise up to 12 floors, of unknown construction quality.

Refurbishment of existing pumping stations involves civil and building works. New pumping

station and penstock structures are of reinforced concrete construction. At all existing and new

pumping stations mechanical and electrical works are required for the supply and installation of

pumps, pipe work and control equipment.

The secondary and tertiary network comprises DN315 HDPE SN8 corrugated twin-wall pipes.

Installation is confined to side roads and tracks in the area between Ura e Dajlanit and Plepa. Many

of the roads are unpaved and are flooded during heavy rain events.

Lot 2B: Discharge to Durres WWTP (Waste Water Treatment Plant)

This consists of the installation of 710 /800 mm HDPE rising main from EPS6 to the WWTP,

generally in unpaved roads or tracks running adjacent to or across open drainage channels,

including a 800m section along the banks of the Durres main drainage channel and a 800m section

alongside channel K16 prior to entering the WWTP. In addition to crossing nine tertiary drainage

channels there are a number of major crossings along the rising main alignment, namely the Durres

main drainage channel, two secondary channels (one covered and one open), the new dual carriage

way (from the Shkozet / Rrogozhine intersection on SH2) and a twin 2250mm concrete pipe

conduit beneath the road.

6.4 Description of the Project area

The project’s subcomponent of renewed wastewater primary, secondary and tertiary collection

(lot 2A) is cited in the Plazh (beach) area of Durres City, and runs from the Ura e Dajlanit flyover to

Perroi i Agait over a distance of approximately 8 km in a NNW-SSE direction. In the cross section,

i.e. the WSW- ENE direction, the site is limited on its western side by the high water mark on the



87

beach , while inland (ENE) it is bounded by the railway line and, from the roundabout to Perroi i

Agait, by state highway SH4.

FIGURE 21 -CLOSE UP OF THE AREA WHERE THE MAINS WILL RUN ALONG THE BEACH

At its widest point the site is approximately 600m wide. Access throughout the site is provided by

Rruga e Plazhit and SH4, both of which are dual-carriageway roads, the former with parallel

parking lanes on each side and the latter with a service road on the seaward side. The area has

undergone, and is still undergoing, considerable development for tourism purposes, with the

construction of hotels and apartment buildings over ten stories high. As a consequence of the influx

of tourists, the area’s resident population of 15,000 grows to as much as an estimated 95,000 during

the peak summer season, from 15th

June to 31st August.

17

17

“Lot 2: Sewerage System in Perroi i Agait – Ura e Dajlanit and Discharge to Durres WWTP”- Volume 3.1 –

Particular Specification - Barry & partners consulting Engineers, Ireland, June 2010



88

FIGURE 22 -SATELLITE IMAGE OF THE SITE OF SUB-COMPONENT 2

The project’s subcomponent (Lot 2B) linking the rehabilitated network to the Waste Water

Plant is sited to the north of the state highway SH2 which links Durres with Tirana, in the Kenetes

area. Once a salt marsh, this area is now built up with low rise buildings used for suburban

residence and service industry.

The area is crossed by a new dual-carriageway road running from the Shkozet / Rrogozhine

intersection on SH2 to Rruga Hysen Kertusha. There is a grid of narrow and mostly unpaved

internal roads running along existing drainage channels.

6.5 Topography

The site of the subcomponent 2A (renewed wastewater primary, secondary and tertiary

collection system) is predominantly flat with only very slight undulations along Rruga e Plazhit

and the SH4 carriageway. Much of the ground behind the beach has been raised, by approximately

1.0m, with a mixture of materials including clayey excavated material from the foundations and



89

basements of buildings, river gravel, quarry waste, construction debris and industrial and domestic

refuse. Where the ground has not been raised there is a possibility for it to flood during rainy

weather and not drain away.

The area linked to Lot 2B is flat and is generally slightly above or below mean sea level. Roads

have generally been raised up to 1.0m above surrounding ground level with a mixture of materials

(river gravel, quarry waste, construction debris and industrial and domestic refuse). The lower

ground, especially where it has been disturbed by building activities or road construction, has a

tendency to flood during rains.

6.6 Hydrology and Drainage

Site of 2A (renewed wastewater primary, secondary and tertiary collection system :

The only natural water course is Perroi i Agait, which defines the southern boundary of the site.

There is also a large man-made channel, the Shën Vlash drain, which drains higher ground from

before discharging into the Adriatic Sea. The water level in this channel rises during heavy rains by

approximately 2m.

A man-made drainage channel traverses the site longitudinally between Rruga e Plazhit and the

railway line from the vicinity of Shkozet railway station to the flyover at Ura e Dajlanit. Some

sections of the channel are covered and at Ura e Dajlanit it is piped in a DN1500 conduit. Due to a

lack of maintenance and an accumulation of refuse the drain is not free-flowing. In the summer

months it is stagnant.

The underground water table in this area has been found to be at only 0,8 m below the natural

ground level (Grusmar Ingegneria y Consulting ground investigation, 2010) and as a consequence is

highly exposed to pollution from seepage of surface waters.

Site of the project’s subcomponent of linkage of the renewed network to the Waste Water

Plant : There are no natural watercourses in this site, although the site is criss-crossed by an

extensive drainage system established on a rectangular grid pattern, connecting to the Durres main

drainage channel. The said channel runs across the site in a south-east to north-west direction, to the

Hydrovore in Porto Roman, from where it discharges into the Adriatic Sea. The channel’s water is

heavily polluted from wastewater leakage and overflows, and from solid waste.



90

6.7 Risk analysis and environmental impacts

6.7.1 Water resources

The project will not have negative impacts on water resources, as it does not affect surface waters.

On the other hand, the replacement of heavily corroded and leaking wastewater systems, and the

channeling of wastewater to the treatment plant will eliminate seepage of polluted water into the

soil and in the underground water table, and of wastewater into surface water runoff, and ultimately

into the Adriatic Sea.

The expected impacts during the construction phase

During the reconstruction of pumping stations, and at all operations of linkup of the new

wastewater system with the existing network, precautions need to be taken to prevent spillage of

wastewater.

These are described in the EMP report.

The expected impacts during the project’s life

The project’s impact on water resources in its exploitation phase will be a positive one, as it will

eliminate leakage of wastewater and its seepage in the soil, and pollution of surface water.

Possible adverse impacts could result in case of leakage of the newly constructed wastewater mains.

This risk will be offset by ordinary maintenance and periodic inspections. These are described in

the EMP report.

6.7.2 Geological and soil system

No adverse impacts on the stability of soil are to be expected from the implementation of this

project, as the wastewater pipes will be running along public roads. The one exception is the 3 km

tract where the pipes will be running along the man-made beach will not produce effects on soil

stability, as this beach is a stabilized and intensively used for recreational purposes.

The expected impacts during the construction phase

In the construction phase, namely during the reconstruction of pumping stations, and at all

operations of linkup of the new wastewater system with the existing network, precautions need to

be taken to prevent spillage of wastewater, which could pollute the soil. These are described in the

EMP report.

The expected impacts during the project’s life

Possible adverse impacts could result in case of leakage of the newly constructed wastewater mains.

This risk will be offset by ordinary maintenance and periodic inspections. These are described in

The EMP report.



91

6.7.3 Natural habitats

No natural ecosystems are present in the area affected by the project; as it is located within urban

and semi-urban areas . For this reason, the project does not affect in a negative way notable species,

or protected and globally significant ecosystems. On the other hand, the project does have a positive

impact, by contributing to the reduction of pollution in the Adriatic Sea.

6.7.4 Air quality

In the present situation, air quality is negatively affected by the odors of sewage from links in the

decrepit network and from old manholes which no longer have their covers.

The project will a have very limited impact on the quality of air during the construction phase, due

to the use of small construction machinery and of over pumping while the pumping stations to be

rehabilitated are temporarily out of commission.

In the exploitation phase, the project will only have a positive impact, as leakage of wastewater will

be eliminated and as the decrepit manholes now in place, many of which have no cover, will be

replaced by modern manholes, complete with their covers.

6.7.5 Physical cultural resources

As the wastewater mains will be running along existing roads, without requiring the excavation of

new areas or affecting existing buildings, no impact with Physical cultural resources is foreseen in

either the construction or the exploitation phase.

6.7.6 Socio-economic environment

The project will have no negative impacts on the socio-economic environment, as it brings about an

improvement in quality of life, public health, and in the general quality of the environment.

Economically, it improves the area’s value as a tourism attraction.

During the construction phase, when works will be carried out in the tract running along the beach,

the project will disrupt the recreational use of the beach itself; however this effect will be

minimized, since, during the summer season (June, July and September) in compliance with the

existing Municipal regulations, no works shall be carried out in this tract.

6.8 Analysis of alternatives and their impact on the environment

6.8.1 No project Option

The “no project-option” would mean leaving in a decrepit state the wastewater network of this part

of Durres, which has special importance not simply for its residents, but also for the city’s tourism



92

industry. Leakage of wastewater would continue, and untreated wastewater would seep into the soil

and the water table, and ultimately the Adriatic Sea.

There would be no advantages of any kind in this option, while the opportunity to improve

environmental quality, public health and the city’s quality of life and tourism potential would be

lost.

6.8.2 Alternatives for the routing of the mains and the location of pumping stations.

There are no practical alternatives to routing of the network within this built-up environment. The

choice which has been made of retracing the route of the pre-existing wastewater network is the

only possible one. Regarding the 3 km tract which runs at the higher end of the public beach, the

alternative to run the mains more inland, through private proprieties would have obvious

disadvantages in terms of costs (expropriation or compensation) while not offering any advantages.

6.9 Conclusions of the EIA

The conclusions of the EIA are that there will be no notable negative environmental impacts from

the implementation of wastewater component of this project. The very limited impacts in the

construction phase are not different from those of extraordinary maintenance operation, very limited

in terms of quantity and in time.

The Technical Specifications for the works contract, as developed by Barry & Partners in June

2010, make provision that shall prevent and mitigate adverse impacts on the environment and

disturbance to the residents. These conditions should become an integral part of the construction

contract in due course.

Further, negative impacts can be efficiently mitigated by additional equate prescriptions to the

contractor, whose application can easily be monitored by the works supervision without requiring

any specialist professional inputs. No negative impacts are to be expected in the operational phase,

provided that ordinary maintenance of the network and the pumping stations is exercised.

6.10 Triggering of World Bank’s OPs

The EIA and EMP studies follow the indications and guidelines of the Operational Policy (OP) for

the Environmental Assessment procedure (OP 4.01).

The project which is assessed has environmental and social purposes and effects. It aims to develop

and improve the present waste water collection system in Durres.



93

The consultants are satisfied that the project’s nature and the technical solutions that have been

chosen to achieve efficiently the desired outcomes without producing adverse environmental and

social impacts.

Only one of the applicable World Bank’s Operational Policies is triggered, for the following

reasons:

- OP 4.04 Natural Habitats and OP 4.36 Forests NOT TRIGGERED: No critical habitats nor forests

are affected by this component. The beach tract where the collection main is running has long since

lost any characterization of a natural habitat, and so has the former marshland which is now a semi-

urban settled area linked to the Waste Water Treatment Plant. This has taken place by man-made

activities long preceding the implementation of the project, and there is no connection between such

events and the present project.

- OP 4.11 Physical Cultural Resources; NOT TRIGGERED: All works are conducted in area where

previous excavations have taken place, and the works do not affect any historical building or

monuments. Monitoring and mitigation measures have been identified in the EMP to manage

chance finds during the construction phase.

- OP 4.12 Involuntary Resettlement; NOT TRIGGERED: Current level of information indicate that

this OP is not triggered. However, if the situation on ground during implementation finds that they

are objects on the route, relevant clauses from the RPF will be invoked.

- OP 7.50 Projects in International Waters TRIGGERED: The project has a beneficial effect by

reducing wastewater pollution in the Adriatic Sea. However, because of the increased volume of

water supplied by the new transmission main and the current arrangement of discharging untreated

wastewater to the Adriatic, this policy is triggered and arrangements have been made to notify all

other riparian countries in the Adriatic Basin of the project and its proposed activities.



94

7 Public disclosure

This document – the Environmental Impact Assessment Report, as well as the site-specific

Environmental Mitigation Plan and Environmental Monitoring Plan, will be publicly disclosed in

accordance with the World Bank OP 4.01. The summary of the disclosure process will be

inserted here upon completion of the process.

8 Environmental Mitigation Plan (TO BE INSERTED)

9 Environmental Monitoring Plan (TO BE INSERTED)



95

THE ANNEXES TO THE PRESENT REPORT CONTAIN ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

WHICH DESCRIBES IN MORE DETAIL SOME OF THE ACTIVITIES CONTAINED IN THE

MAIN TEXT.

ANNEX 1 – DESCRIPTION OF HYDROLOGY IN THE PROJECT AREA

Rivers and channels

The Fushe Kuqe plain is a reclaimed former marshland, with an open drainage system on its

surface, with a final pumping station (hydrovore) that discharges the drained water into the Adriatic

Sea.

The main hydrological feature of the Fushe Kuqe Plain is River Mati, which forms the area's natural

northern border. The Mati River’s catchment area is 2441 km², the main tributary of it is Fani River,

that flows from the north east to (insert where), while Mati itself flows from the south west to

(insert where) to the confluence with Fani and then to the west meandering through the flat plain

area with an average gradient of around 0.5 - 0.6 m/km, to its estuary into the Adriatic Sea, near

(insert name of the city, or other location for reference).

In the upper reaches of Mati River, two hydroelectric power plants and associated dams were

constructed in the past (1952-1970). Therefore, the natural regime of the River has been completely

changed; however, Fani River has preserved its natural conditions.

After its confluence with Fani in the plain, the flow of Mati River can be considered as a sum of the

continuous discharge from the hydropower plants and flow of Fani River. The discharge from the

hydropower plants varies between 10 m3/s and 15 m3/s with peak flows of more than 50 m3/s 18

18

The Institute of Hydrometeorology of Albania).



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FIGURE 23 RIVER MATI AND ISHMI BASINS

The Fani River exhibits a very variable discharge ranging from a mean minimum monthly flow of

about 10 m3/s in August to a mean maximum monthly discharge of about 71 m3/s in January with

an annual average of around 45 m3/s.

Records between 1951 and 1985 indicate that Mati had a mean annual discharge of 103 m³/s, of

which 60 m³/s e from the Mati itself and 42 m³/s from the Fani. The resulting specific discharge was

about 40 l/s.km² and the runoff coefficient 0.75.

The river’s annual discharge volume is 3,250 million m³ , specific discharge is 40 l/s.km², with a

ratio of 10 between the wettest month (December) and the driest month ( August); the storage

capacity of Ulza reservoir hydropower plants is 240 million m³ (about 15% of annual flow of the

Mati).

In the southern part of the plain the Rivers Zeza and Gjole cut through the plain and then flow into

the Ishem River. Downstream of the confluence of the Rivers Zeza and Gjole, at Sukth hydrometric

station, flows normally range between 2-4 m3/sec in summer and 50-60 m3/sec in winter. In the

River Terkuza , flows of between 0 to 14 m3/sec are reported (the source river of the Gjole River is

the River Tirane, this flows along the northern outskirts of Tirana and joins the River Tërkuzë, near



97

Preze, to form the Gjole). The River Droja flows across the centre of the plain and then into the sea

at the town of Adriatik (flow data unavailable).

Surface water quality and pollution loads

The quality of water was investigated in several studies which concur in indicating the presence of

heavy metals in the waters of the Mati river basin. Chemical analysis of samples taken from the

Mati before 1990 showed a high content of metallic ions (iron, manganese and copper), which is

not surprising as this is an important mining area. The impacts on irrigated agriculture and human

health are not fully assessed and the implications for marine coastal waters are also not clear 19

Water quality parameters and heavy metal levels were monitored during 2002 - 2004 by the Faculty

of Natural Science of Tirana, which carried out field investigations on the most impacted rivers of

the Adriatic lowland, including the Mati, with its tributary the Fani and the Ishmi River. The

relatively high concentration of copper in sediments and algae of the Mati River can be attributed to

pollution from copper-rich minerals found in this area, and to pollution from dumps of solid wastes

of mines and former metallurgical plants.

In a quality evaluation of rivers based on the NIVA (1997) classification of Norwegian Institute for

Water Research, the physicochemical parameters of Mati River were defined as “good to fair” and

moderately polluted by heavy metals contaminants.

The investigations carried out by Cullaj (2003), Beqiraj (2009) and Gjoka (2010) indicate that high

levels of Cd, Pb, Zn, Cu, Cr and As were found in the old metallurgical plant located in Laçi, high

concentrations Cd, Pb, Zn, Cu, Cr, As and Ni were in sediments downstream of Rubik in the River

Fani, and high levels of Cd and Hg were found in the Fani and Mati River water.

The most recent (2010) and also the most alarming, tests of chemical pollution of the Mati and

Shkumbini rivers, found concentrations of Chrome, Nickel, Zinc, Cadmium, Copper and Arsenic

exceed the maximum acceptable values.

The concentration of As in a Mati river is higher in the northern section, ranging from upstream of

the alluvial plain area (uncontaminated), to the alluvial area (contaminated). Samplings were taken

near an ex copper smelter plant, and the influence of Cu dumps from this factory is still significant

at this site.

19

The Institute of Hydrometeorology of Albania



98

The relatively high concentration of Cu in sediments of river Mati reflect both the natural

background value of heavy metals minerals from geological characteristic of rocks in the area, and

the pollution from dumps of solid wastes of mines and former metallurgical plants.

Especially important contributors of this type of pollution are the dumps in Fani river banks (as in

Repsi, Rresheni and Rubiku) and numerous mining works in Sparci and Kader Sparci slopes, from

which acid waters drain, which add to the natural leaching of surface outcrops of mineralized zones.

Water analysis of the river Fani where it runs through these areas show the presence of a high level

of ions of Cu, Fe, Zn, and SO4. A study of the degree of pollution of the Fani River20

from the

copper extracting and processing industry clearly indicates that gravity of the pollution is very high.

It was estimated that the Fani river transports each year to the Repsi dumps 1 ton Cu, 1.5 ton Zn, 27

ton Fe and 800 ton S, collected from the mining works and mineralized zones exposed in its

uppermost parts. Further downstream of the Repsi dumps, the material transported annually by Fani

river reaches about 41 ton Cu, 42 ton Zn, 0.3 ton Pb, 0.08 ton Cd, 3 200 ton Fe, 05 ton As and 10

600 ton S (Daci A. et al., 2007). Such an increase of the material transported by Fani River after

passing the zone of the dumps is a clear proof of the influence of the dumps in water pollution.

AQUIFER AND GROUNDWATER

Hydro geological characteristics

The Fushe Kuqe Plain is a multilayered artesian aquifer system formed by alluvial deposits with

permeable layers of gravel and sandy gravel. According to the existing hydro geological studies,

clay and silt deposits seem to cover progressively these permeable deposits, which outcrop along

the Mati River in the Northern part of the Plain in a South- Western direction. Only in the area

along the Mati River where are outcrops of gravelly deposits, the aquifer system can be found

partially unconfined. The cumulative thickness of the gravel layers, which form the most productive

aquifer of the area, varies from 40 m - 200 m.

In the Northern part of the Fushe Kuqe Plain, along the Mati River, the gravel deposits are

characterized by a high thickness. The aquifer seems to be continuous, whereas towards the South,

there are two intermediate clay layers characterized by a variable thickness of 10 till 20 m and

enable the generation of three aquifer horizons.

The upper or first aquifer seems to be continuous throughout the plain.

20

(Sweco & MPTI, 1999)



99

Below the first, is a second aquifer layer, the two being separated by a clay layer with a variable

thickness of 15 to 30 m. The first aquifer is partly in unconfined conditions (in the recharge area)

and partly in confined conditions whereas the second one is always in confined conditions.

In the Fushe Kruja area the groundwater flow direction has been established as being predominantly

south-east to north-west, while in the south part of aquifer, from Fushe Kuqe area, the flow is from

the north-east to the south-west. During the flow towards the drainage zone, the groundwater

hydraulic head pressure increases. In the northern part of Fushe Milot, towards the Mati River, the

underground waters exhibit no pressure. The static level of underground waters varies from 2.5 m

above the surface in Fushe Kuqe village to 2.25 m below the surface in the south in Fushe Milot.

As result of aquifer exploitation, the groundwater levels have been lowered. In the pumping zone

the dynamic level is 2.5 m under the soil surface. The oscillation of underground water level in

different seasons of the year is not significant and does not exceed the amount of 0.2 m.

A piezometric map of the upper aquifer, based on measurements made by the Hydro geological

Institute in 1983, confirms Lotti’s (1993) observation that in the Fushe Kruje area the direction of

groundwater flow was predominantly south-east to north-west and in the Fushe Kuqe area it was

north-east to south-west. In the northern part of Fushe Kuqe plain, this map suggests that the major

source of recharge is close to where the River Mati debouches onto the plain.

Anthropic influences on the aquifer system

The Fushe Kuqe Plain is exploited by two wellfields, in the Fushe Kuqe and the Fushe Milot area.

In Fushe Milot are located 5 wells with an average depth of 30 m, which were originally drilled

near the Mati River with the purpose of supplying a maximum discharge of 670 l/sec the industrial

area of Lac Town. These wells are no longer operational.

The Fushe Kuqe wellfield is located 31 km north of Durres, in alluvial deposits; it consists of 7

wells, with an average depth of 35 m. Each well is fitted with a submersible pump and has a

maximum recommended discharge of 140 l/s. In the years 1968 to 1993 there were no significant

increases in abstraction from the Fushe Kuqe wellfield with daily mean production reported to be

626 l/s, while extraction from Milot Fushe wells was estimated at 305 l/s.21

In the 2001 extraction from the Fushe Kuqe wellfield was increased to 775 l/s, 22

(RODECO) and

by 2007 the abstraction had reached 816 l/s 23

. The current pumping rate is 881 l/s, which that

represent the theoretical transmission system capacity of the wellfield (July 2011).

21

Lotti Durres Water Supply Rehabilitation and Demand Management Project, 1993 22

Feasibility Study for the Durres Rural Areas Project, 2003, prepared by RODECO Consulting GmbH (Germany)



100

The groundwater resource is also exploited by both deep and shallow private wells. In the Fushe

Kuqe Plain there are 115 drilled wells; some of them were drilled under application of the

percussion method whereas the remaining were drilled according to the rotary method. The depth of

the drilled wells ranges from 25 m to 200 m. Mostly, they feature free flowing conditions, and

discharges span from 1 - 2 l/s up to about 10 l/s. The wells are used by local inhabitants to ensure

the water supply of small communities. Most of these wells only reach the first aquifer layer, but

some of them, drilled for exploration purpose only, have reached the third aquifer layers. Many of

these exploration wells are presently abandoned. In the northern part, the specific discharges

oscillate from 6 to 82 l/s/m. In the southern part, the specific discharges are lower and vary from 0.5

to 3 l/s/m.

In the RODECO Report (2001) it was noted that the total number of wells in the Fushe Kuqe -

Fushe Krujë plain was around 450 and that these pumped ~2000 l/s. It also stated that these

extractions resulted in groundwater levels dropping 4 to 5 m regionally over the period 1964 to

1993, but that in the Duress - Lac area groundwater levels dropped only 2 to 3 m. It was also stated

that in 1993, despite many years of groundwater extractions, regional piezometric levels had

stabilized around 1.5 - 2.0 m above the groundwater levels of today.

In conclusion, it is possible to estimate the total fall in groundwater levels in Fushe Kuqe as being

between 3.5 and 5 m over the period 1963 to 2001.

However there are no available monitoring datasets showing the temporal evolution of piezometric

head in the area near the wellfield. According to recent information derived from the staff of the

water supply centre of Fushe Kuqe in November 2011, the local drawdown observed in the

pumping wells produces a piezometric head between -2 and -10 m.a.s.l.

Groundwater flow balance and potential resource

The evaluation of the groundwater potential in the Fushe Kuqe Plain will be limited to the quantity

of groundwater flowing in the gravel aquifer. The recharge of the aquifer system mainly seems to

occur in the Northern part of the Plain by infiltration from the Mati River’s surface waters through

its banks , and in the Eastern part partially by groundwater inflow from the lateral outcrops of

limestone rocks bordering the Plain, plus inflow from precipitations.

23

Feasibility study of Durres and Kavaja water supply, IC Consulenten August 2008



101

Lotti (1993) estimated a flow balance of the Fushe Kuqe and Fushe Kruja Aquifer System.

According to this estimate, there was about 1250 l/sec of groundwater flowing out into the sea or

into rivers, while the groundwater exploitation was quantified at an average in 800 l/s from Fushe

Kuqe wellfields and of 1980 l/s total pumping by wells of the plain. The main aquifer recharge

comes from alluvial fans and infiltration or surface water from Mati River represents 85% of the

groundwater recharge, into the Fushe Kuqe - Fushe Kruja aquifer, with a total discharge of 2915 l/s,

while the direct infiltration from rainfall is only 125 l/s.

Strazimiri (1995) provides a regional finite difference mathematical model, and defines the

groundwater balance. This balance is very different from Lotti’s (1993) balance. Most notable is the

absence of direct infiltration, the 50% reduction in total inflows and outflows, and the much smaller

contribution from the River Mati, with an infiltration flow of 1239 l/s against Lotti’s 2915 l/s.

In the north, the smaller contribution from Mati River is partially offset by inflows from the sea

and groundwater infiltrations from the north. These are no excess flow to sea or to rivers (1285 l/s

in Lotti’s balance). In fact the opposite occurs: the groundwater depression in the north, created by

the wellfield in Fushe Kuqe, is responsible for inflows from the sea.

The reduced contributions from this river are offset by increased flows from the sea (101 l/s) and

increased “filtrations from the north” (386.3 l/sec). The filtrations from the north appear to refer to

groundwater transfers from the alluvial aquifer located north of the Mati River.

In the IC Consulenten Feasibility study of 2008 the total groundwater flow was evaluated

considering the transmissivity values used in Darcy's law calculated for the total thickness of all

gravel layers. The groundwater discharge in the hydro geological system of the Fushe Kuqe Plain

occurs mainly by well extraction and groundwater seepage into the Adriatic Sea. The present

groundwater extraction from the existing wells has been reported to be 1095 l/s. The groundwater

balance existing in the hydro geological system of the Fushe Kuqe Plain can be summarized as

follows: groundwater flow 2222 l/s, groundwater extraction by wells 1005 l/s and groundwater flow

to sea 1217 l/s.

The results of this numerical groundwater flow model can be used to assess the flow balance.

In particular from 1968 until the present total abstractions the seawater contributions into the

wellfield have increased. The reduction of withdrawals from the Milot wellfield area, industrial area

of Lac, has determined a change in flow directions, the main contributions come from Ishmi Valley

and from the mountains. At the present that aquifer zone makes up the bulk of groundwater flowing

to the wellfield, where previously it was from River Mati. Wellfield inflow from Mati river area is

calculated in ~367 l/s (420 l/s in the historic simulation), while the flow from the Ishmi Valley is



102

estimated in 474 l/s. A progressive increase over time of the pumping wellfield Fushe Kure, from

626 l/s to 881 l/s, has caused an increased flow contribution from the sea, a total of 38 l / s

compared with only 4 l / s.

Groundwater quality

The chemical groundwater composition has been identified by analyses in the framework of

different studies. Generally, these analyses indicated low groundwater mineralization as well as a

chemical composition and bacteriological conditions in compliance with the requirements of

potable water. The first horizon groundwater, from upper layer aquifer, features a low

mineralization between 240 and 850 mg/l, typical carbonate hydrofacies. However, in some places

water quality is poor, and this includes the area south of the Fushe Kuqe wellfield, in the Patok-

Shellinxe sector, where values of Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) of between 1,000 to 1,500 had been

recorded in the top aquifer and 3,000 to 3,500 mg/l in the second aquifer (IC Consulenten report

2008).

The contents of chlorides is 400 - 600 mg/l is evidence of saline intrusion phenomenon.

Details of some smaller wells drilled for village or private supplies wells are also included in the

Strazimiri (1995) report. These details include water salinity data, in the form of TDS, for a shallow

well (50 m) drilled near the coast in Patok (600 mg/l) and deeper wells (82 to 100 m) drilled in

Adriatik (1106 to 3595 mg/l). Also for shallow wells (54 to 61 m) drilled in Fushe Kuqe (300 to

874 mg/l30) and deep wells (148 to 220 m) drilled in Fushe Kuqe (310 to 2226 mg/l). TDS values

are also provided for one well in Fushe Milot (27.5 m deep, TDS of 257.2 mg/l) and one well in Lac

(41 m deep, TDS of 250 mg/L). In general, these data suggest brackish water occurs at depth along

the coast and in places in the deeper aquifer beneath Fushe Kuqe.

Currently the quality of the groundwater in Fushe Kuqe remains unclear, and the last analysis were

performed are not in line with EU standards, so is not possible to confirm if it is of acceptable

standards for human consumption and to determine the current status of the aquifer. In particular

there is no information about the heavy metals contaminants in the groundwater.



103

ANNEX 2 DATA SOURCES

In order to obtain the necessary data for the EIA report the following activities have been carried

out:

Meetings and Field Visits24

Meetings with, PMU, WB Office Tirana, COWI, Dr. F. Brusberg, TL Team Leader, Sustainability

& Safeguards at CGAP. , the Directorate of Water and Sewerage in Durres and Technicians in

operational units in Fushe Kuqe.

Field visits (wellfields in Fushe Kuqe, main pipeline route, villages sited along the pipeline route)

Meetings were also scheduled with the Local government of Durres, Water management

authorities, the Local communities and villages mentioned above, NGOs, IEP Albania, and Tirana

Polytechnic.

Consultations have been conducted with local stakeholders in the drilling field areas, key locations

along the pipeline route, Durres and Porto Romano. Such consultations have been organized in

collaboration with the team in charge of Social Impact Assessment.

Literature review covered:

o Previous studies preceding this Project;

o Technical studies produced for this project by WB funded and EU funded

consultants;

o State and local government decrees, laws, regulations and policies

o WB’s environmental and social safeguard policies

o WB’s operational manual/policies

o Existing physical environment such as: Climate and meteorology, soil, water,

topography, land use in the selected community.

o Existing socio-economic environment

Main sources of data:

Water resources



104

o Durres Water Supply Rehabilitation and Demand Management Project, 1993,

prepared by C. Lotti & Associati of Rome, Italy, in association with SEBA

Messtechnik of Klagenfurt, Austria,

o Feasibility Study for the Durres Rural Areas Project, 2003, prepared by RODECO

Consulting GmbH (Germany) under the WSURP

o Feasibility study of Durres and Kavaja water supply, IC Consulenten August 2008

o Data Collection- Report of the Water Sector Investment Project Durres Municipality

(This report provides the baseline data information on Climate, Geology and

Structure, Topography, Existing Land Use, Surface Water Catchments, Ground

Water and Springs, Biodiversity, Air Quality, Noise, Historical and Cultural

Heritage based on data from previous studies and in addition information

collected from project team during site visits and meetings with relevant

institutions.)

o “Water supply and Sewerage Master Plan” Final inception report, IC

Consulenten, November 2011.

Legal and institutional framework:

o http://faolex.fao.org/

o Albania – Water Supply and Sanitation sector Strategy, World Bank, June 2003.

o Management and sustainable development of protected transitional waters

[Cooperation between Italy, Greece, Romania, Bulgaria, Albania, Mejdiaj/Ponari,

Nomos+Physis, 2004.

o Albania Overview of EIA system Elaborated within the REReP 1.4 project EIA

Capacity-Building in South Eastern Europe Funded by the European Union’s Phare

Programs, Prepared by Entela Cobani, Elvana Cani, Alma Bako, November 2002.

o http://ec.europa.eu/environment/eia/home.htm

Air quality and climate analysis

o Rapid Environmental assessment for the Industrial and Energetic Parks at Porto

Romano, Durres, Albania” Landel Mills, May 2008

o Http://sdwebx.worldbank.org/climateportal/index.cfm?page=country_future_climate

&ThisRegion=Europe&ThisCcode=ALB

http://faolex.fao.org/

http://ec.europa.eu/environment/eia/home.htm

http://sdwebx.worldbank.org/climateportal/index.cfm?page=country_future_climate&ThisRegion=Europe&ThisCcode=ALB

http://sdwebx.worldbank.org/climateportal/index.cfm?page=country_future_climate&ThisRegion=Europe&ThisCcode=ALB



105

o CLIMATE-INDUCED WATER AVAILABILITY CHANGES IN EUROPE, Floor

Brouwer (Research Scholar, Environment Program, International Institute for

Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA), A-2361 Laxenburg, Austria) and Malin

Falkenmark (Professor of International Hydrology, Swedish Natural Science

Research Council, S-11385 Stockholm, Sweden), Received December, 1988

o Adapting to climate change in Europe and Central Asia, World Bank, June 2009

Socio economic environment

o Regional Development Framework for the Tirana-Durres Region 2008-2027 –

Action Plan, December 2007

o Rapid Environmental Assessment for the Industrial and Energetic Park's at Porto

Romano, Durres, Albania, 25th May 2008

o Regional Development Framework for the Tirana-Durres Region 2008-2027 –

Action Plan, December 2007.

o Validation and Finalization of Feasibility Study and Preparation of Preliminary and

Detailed Design for Bulk Water Supply Line to Durres Region – Inception Report

COWI 29th August 2011.

o DRN- ACER . “Final Analytical Report of January 19th 2012.

o Population data DURRESI DISTRICT, INSTAT branch of DURRESI

o FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE WATER SUPPLY PROJECT IN DURRES

AND KAVAJA Annex 1 Population figures – Details, IC Consulenten ZT GmbH,

August 2008

World Bank Safeguard Operational Policy (OP)

o Environmental Assessment Sourcebook 1999. CHAPTER 2 GLOBAL AND

CROSS-SECTORAL ISSUES IN ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW.

o THE WORLD BANK OPERATIONS POLICIES MANUAL:

OP 4.01 Environmental Assessment procedure (January, 1999 – Revised in

August 2004 and March 2007; updated in February 2011)

OP 4.04 Natural Habitats (June, 2001 – updated in August 2004)

OP 4.11 Physical Cultural Resources (July, 2006 – updated in March 2007)

OP 4.12 Involuntary Resettlement (December, 2001 – Revised in August

2004 and March 2007; updated in February 2011)



106

OP 4.37 Dams (October, 2001 – Replacement of the September 1996

versions; revised in April 2012)

OP 4.36 Forests (November, 2002 – Revised in August 2004)

OP 7.50 Projects in International Waters (June, 2001 – Revised in August

2004 and in March 2012)

OP 7.60 Projects in Disputed Areas (June, 2001 – Revised in August 2004

and in March 2012)

The above reports should be referred to for details of data. Data relating to the two key

environmental aspects of the present study are discussed in the following sections, and

environmental impacts are accordingly assessed.

Republic of Albania Ministry of Public Works and Transport ...

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