world bank document · 2016. 7. 10. · karshi pumping cascade rehabilitation phase i project 5...

KARSHI PUMPING CASCADE REHABILITATION PROJECT

ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT

4' x-*4E527tt _rVolume2

1 4~~~40

* of w- -rt.,

,f - r t -- ;

,X,^ ~ ude maaemn of th P IU>

, wIIjf | r -is- U COPY

_! ! 4w,5e

-w*D -- -a fi

.2t RP UBLIC IO UES

DRAFT FINAL REPORT

22 E i'rTIvember 2001

Onternational andI National Consultantsunder management of tihe PllI

FILE COPYREPUBLIC OF UZBEKISTAN

MIINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND WATER RESOURCESPROJECT IMPL2Eti4TATIO3N UNIT

Pub

lic D

iscl

osur

e A

utho

rized

Pub

lic D

iscl

osur

e A

utho

rized

Pub

lic D

iscl

osur

e A

utho

rized

Pub

lic D

iscl

osur

e A

utho

rized

Pub

lic D

iscl

osur

e A

utho

rized

Pub

lic D

iscl

osur

e A

utho

rized

Pub

lic D

iscl

osur

e A

utho

rized

Pub

lic D

iscl

osur

e A

utho

rized

Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehab,i.taton Prase I Pro ectEnvironmental AssessmentDraft Final Report

KARSHI PUMPING CASCADE REHABILITATION PROJECT

ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT

DRAFT FINAL REPORT

DATE: 22 November 2001

CONSULTANTS:

Various internationalVarious nationalUnder management of the PIU

REPUBLIC OF UZBEKISTANMINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND WATER RESOURCESPROJECT IMPLEMENTATION UNIT

Republic of Uzbekistan 12/07/01Ministry of Agriculture and Water ResourcesProject Implementation Unit

Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabilitation Phase I Project 2Environmental AssessmentDraft Final Report

TABLE OF CONTENT

1 INTRODUCTION 6

1.1 BACKGROUND 61.2 OBJECTIVES 71.3 SCOPE OF THE REPORT 8

2 INSTITUTIONAL, LEGAL AND POLICY FRAMEWORK 9

2.1 INTRODUCTION 92.2 INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK FOR IRRIGATION AND DRAINAGE 9

2.2.1 REGIONAL INSTITUTIONS 92.2.2 NATIONAL INSTITUTIONS 102.2.3 LOCAL LEVEL INSTITUTIONS 1 12.2.4 FARM LEVEL INSTITUTIONS 122.3 LEGAL AND POLICY ASPECTS IN VIEW OF IRRIGATION AND DRAINAGE 132.3.1 OWNERSHIP 132.3.2 WATER RIGHTS 132.3.3 PAYMENT FOR WATER 142.3.4 IMPROVEMENTS 142.3.5 DISPUTES 142.4 INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK FOR ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 142.4.1 GOSKOMPRIRODA AND ITS MANDATE 142.4.2 ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE GOSKOMPRIRODA 152.4.3 DEVELOPMENTS OF EA AND SEE 152.4.4 REVIEW OF GOSKOMPRIRODA AND EA CAPACITY 162.4.5 INSTITUTIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL CAPACITY IN OTHER ORGANIZATIONS 172.5 ENVIRONMENTAL POLICIES, LAWS AND REGULATIONS 172.5.1 REGIONAL AND NATIONAL LEVEL 172.5.2 LOCAL LEVEL: DEFINITION OF PROTECTION ZONES ALONG KMC AND TALIMARJAN RESERVOIR 182.6 REQUIREMENTS FOR ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 19

3 PROJECT DESCRIPTION 22

3.1 INTRODUCTION 223.1.1 THE PUMPING CASCADE 223.1.2 THE AMU DARYA AS WATER SOURCE 223.2 GENERAL REHABILITATION PROJECT COMPONENTS 253.2.1 SEDIMENT MANAGEMENT 253.2.2 KMC INTAKE CHANNEL 273.2.3 DREDGING 273.2.4 THE KMC DOWNSTREAM OF PS 1 283.2.5 PUMPING STATIONS PS 1 TO PS 6 283.2.6 ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT 303.2.7 DISCHARGE PIPELINES 313.2.8 CONTROL SYSTEM 313.2.9 COMMUNICATIONS AND SCADA SYSTEMS 32


Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabilitation Pnase I Pro]ect 3Environmental AssessmentDraft Final Report

3.2.10 TALIMARJAN RESERVCIR 333.2.11 TALIMARJAN WORKSHOP 343.2.12 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE 353.3 INSTITUTIONAL PROJECT COMPONENTS 373.4 IRRIGATION AND DRAINAGE INFRASTRUCTURE 383.5 PHASE I REHABILITATION COMPONENTS 38

4 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT 40

4.1 GENERAL FEATURES 404.1.1 PROJECT LOCATION 404.1.2 CLIMATE 404.1.3 IRRIGATION 414.1.4 DRAINAGE 424.2 WATER RESOURCES 424.2.1 AMU DARYA (RIVER) 424.2.2 KARSHI MAIN CANAL (KMC) 454.2.3 TALIMARJAN RESERVOIR 534.2.4 MAIN IRRIGATION AND DRAINAGE SYSTEM 544.2.5 LAKES AND FLOODPLAIN 564.2.6 WATER CONDITIONS DOWNSTREAM 564.3 LAND RESOURCES 574.3.1 GEOLOGY, HYDROLOGY AND SOIL TYPES 574.3.2 USE OF GIS/RS TECHNOLOGY TO ASSESS LAND CONDITIONS 624.3.3 GROUNDWATER LEVEL AND WATER LOGGING 634.3.4 GROUNDWATER SALINITY 664.3.5 SALT MOBILISATION AND SOIL SALINITY 674.3.6 LAND CONDITIONS IN THE DOWNSTREAM IRRIGATED AREAS 704.4 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 704.4.1 CONDITIONS OF LAKE ATCHINSK, LAKE SICHANKUL AND LAKE SULTANDAG 704.4.2 ZONES OF ECOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE ALONG THE KMC AND THE TALIMARJAN RESERVOIR 72

5 ASSESSMENT SCENARIO'S FOR ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT 75

5.1 WHY BACKGROUND SCENARIOS? 755.2 SUMMARY OF THREE SCENARIOS 755.3 DIFFERENCES BETWEEN SCENARIOS 765.4 HOW SCENARIOS ARE USED IN THIS EA 785.4.1 SCENARIOS AND PROJECT 785.4.2 ENVIRONMENTAL PARAMETERS 785.5 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS OF SCENARIO C VERSUS SCENARIO A 795.5.1 LAND RESOURCES 795.5.2 WATER RESOURCES 795.5.3 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES, POTENTIAL FOR WETLAND DEVELOPMENT 80

6 ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS 81

6.1 INTRODUCTION 81



6.2 PAST AND PRESENT IMPACTS OF THE KARSHI MAIN CANAL 816.3 POTENTIAL IMPACTS FROM FUTURE REHABILITATION OF THE KMC 876.3.1 DRAINAGE SYSTEM ALONG THE APPROACH CHANNEL 916.3.2 REPLACEMENT OF ENGINES FOR DREDGERS 916.3.3 EROSION OF THE AMU DARYA RIVER BANKS 9 16.3.4 ENVIRONMENTAL RISKS AND HAZARDS DURING CONSTRUCTION 926.4 IMPACTS ON WATER QUALITY 926.4.1 GENERAL 926.4.2 ASSUMPTIONS 936.4.3 CDW AND AMU DARYA RIVER 946.4.4 LAKE AND FLOODPLAIN WATER 986.4.5 CONCLUSIONS 996.5 IMPACT ON LAND SALINISATION AND WATER LOGGING 100

6.5.1 INTRODUCTION 1006.5.2 LAND SALINISATION 100

6.5.3 WATER LOGGING OF LAND 101

6.5.4 LAND ABANDONMENT 101

7 ENVIRONMENTAL MITIGATION PLAN 103

7.1 INTRODUCTION 1037.2 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT GUIDELINES FOR KMC REHABILITATION 1037.2.1 TECHNICAL ENHANCEMENT MEASURES 1037.2.2 ENVIRONMENTAL DUE DILIGENCE DURING CONSTRUCTION 1047.2.3 ENVIRONMENTAL ENHANCEMENT MEASURES 1047.3 RECOMMENDATION CONCERNING WATERLOGGED AREA ALONG KMC 105

8 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PLAN 107

8.1 INTRODUCTION 1078.2 TRANSBOUNDARY TRAFFIC 1078.3 MONITORING NATURE PRESERVATION TALIMARJAN 1078.4 MONITORING OF GROUNDWATER LEVEL AND WATER LOGGING 1078.5 MONITORING OF LAND SALINISATION 1088.6 MONITORING WATER QUALITY OF KMC AND KARSHI DRAINAGE SYSTEM DOWNSTREAM 1088.7 FURTHER INVESTIGATIONS DURING OPERATION STAGE 1098.7.1 UTILIZATION OF DREDGED MATERIAL FOR SOIL AMELIORATION PURPOSES 1098.7.2 UTILIZATION OF QUARRY 4 NEAR TALIMARJAN RESERVOIR FOR FISH PRODUCTION 1108.7.3 RIVER EROSION 1108.7.4 PHENOL CONTENT OF AMU DARYA WATER 110

9 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 111

9.1 INTRODUCTION 1119.2 OBJECTIVES 1119.3 PROJECT SUMMARY 1139.4 MITIGATION AND MONITORING SUMMARY 1139.5 GENERAL TERMS AND SPECIFICATIONS OF THE EMP 113



9.5.1 General terms 1139.5.2 SPECIFICATIONS 1 14

9.6 INSTITUTIONAL SETTING 1169.6.1 Institutional setting of the Operating Department of KMC 1169.6.2 INSTITUTIONAL SETTING BEYOND KARsii 1 1 89.7 Training plan 119

10 APPENDICES 124

Appendix A Terms of referenceAppendix B List of EA report preparersAppendix C Records of inter-agency and public / NGO communicationsAppendix D Letter of the Turkmen AuthoritiesAppendix E Organization ChartsAppendix F Training Outlines



1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background

Like in many (semi-) arid areas of other countries irrigation in Uzbekistan started with smallschemes developed by local groups. The history of Uzbekistan goes back to 2500 years agowhen irrigation was initiated in several oases including Kashkadarya.

At the beginning of the 20th century about 750 000 hectare were irrigated in Uzbekistan. Large-scale development started when the Soviet Union decided to specialize Uzbekistan in theproduction of cotton. Modern irrigation techniques were then developed in the Hunger steppe inthe central part of the country in the Syrdarya basin, and in the Karshi steppe in the southeast ofthe country in the Amu Darya basin.

Between 1 970 and 1 990 a spectacular increase in the irrigated area was observed, bringing thetotal irrigated area from 2.6 to 4.2 million ha, or an average increase at a rate of 80,000 ha peryear. Such rate of increase is only possible in the presence of a strong set of institutions in thefield of design and construction. At the same time an equally strong institutional framework hadto be developed for the subsequent operation and maintenance of the system.

Nowadays agriculture is an important sector of the Uzbekistan economy accounting for 35% ofthe gross domestic product (about US 4 billion in 1998), 60% of foreign exchange and 45% ofemployment. The fall in cotton production over the past few years is of serious concern for thegovernment. Average yields of cotton are low and the production cost high according to worldstandards, which altogether threatens the sustainability of irrigated agriculture. Two mainconstraints play a key role:

- the continued public sector involvement in the agricultural sector, including stateinterventions with respect to cropping patterns and prices;

- the serious deterioration of the irrigation and drainage infrastructure due to the very lowlevel of operation and maintenance (costing Uzbekistan about US$ 1 billion annuallyaccording to the World Bank).

The basic strategy for addressing this deterioration has been provided through recent presidentialdecrees, which include:

- recognition of the need for emergency rehabilitation of the main irrigation and drainageinfrastructure;

- creation of a state water management inspection agency to prepare proposals.

In this context the Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabilitation Phase I Project was formulated forearly implementation. Over 1 million people depend on the operation of the cascade for theirlivelihood. An additional complication concerns the fact that the intake and 6 of the 7 pumpingstations are located on the territory of Turkmenistan. Operation of the cascade is subject to aninternational agreement that allows Uzbekistan to operate the pump infrastructure in return of ayearly payment of about US$ 0.7 million for leasing the land occupied by the cascade.

Republic of Uzbekistan 12/02101Ministry of Agriculture and Water ResourcesProject Implementation Unit

Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabilitat on Phase I Project 7Environmental AssessmentDraft Final Report

1 .2 Objectives

The objective of the Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabilitation Phase-I project is to increase thereliability, efficiency, and sustainability of the pumped water supply from the Amu Darya to theKarshi irrigated command area. The present phase consists of two components:

- rehabilitation and efficiency improvements of the most critical components of the pumpingcascade, and- establishment of sustainable water management institutions in the Karshi irrigation command,which would be operated on commercial principles and sell water to users.

As part of the preparation of this project, the Government of Uzbekistan with support from theWorld Bank and a grant from the Government of Japan ("PHRD grant") has facilitated thepreparation of an Environmental Assessment (EA). This activity has been managed by theProject Implementation Unit (PIU) under the Ministry of Agriculture and Water Resources(MAWR). Other relevant components of the programme are:

- Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabilitation Project (phase 1), technical design andsupervision of civil works, awarded to Mott McDonald - Temelsu; reference is made totheir Inception Report (May 2001);

- Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabilitation Project (phase 1), institutional component, byDHV; reference is made to their Institutional Component Study (November 2000);

- Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabilitation Project (phase 1), social assessment, byindividual consultants at PIU; reference is made to their draft workplan (May 2001).

The terms of reference to the environmental assessment is attached as Appendix 1. The projectis a category B project according to the World bank Operational Policies (OP 4.01,1999), as ingeneral rehabilitation works of existing infrastructure are considered to generate limitednegative environmental impacts. On the contrary, considerable positive environmental impactshave been predicted for the Kashkadarya command area, in case the proposed institutionalreforms would be implemented during the subsequent phases of project implementation.

Application of WB environmental guidelines would in principle require a sector environmentalassessment, an assessment of the institutional framework and the preparation of anenvironmental management plan. Moreover, both impacts directly generated by the project andimpacts related but not generated by the project should in principle be considered.

Most of these requirements have already been fulfilled with the Drainage Project studies(Preparation study, Environmental Assessment phase I and 11). Moreover, the Karshi PumpingCascade Rehabilitation Phase I Project also includes an Institutional Component and a SocialAssessment. Therefor the current EA study can be limited to:

- analysing and mitigating impacts directly generated by the rehabilitation activitiesduring construction; consequently, these impacts are limited to the KMC, the pumpingstations and their direct surroundings;

- limited analyses of some already identified key issues related but not generated by theproject; issues which will receive attention are land salinisation and abandonment inKarshi command area due to highly saline areas and water quality impacts; in additionthe waterlogging along part of the KMC is a directly related issue as well.


Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehablstation Phase P Project 8Environmental AssessmentDraft Final Report

The analyses are carried out against scenario A (no change scenario) and C (high developmentscenario), which was developed during the phase 11 Drainage studies. The EA will result in astraightforward environmental management plan which require limited human resourcescapacity.

1.3 Scope of the report

The following chapters follow the logical sequence of an environmental assessment report. Partof the information and even chapter have been (partly) taken from existing documentation. Thefollowing chapters are included:

- the institutional framework in chapter 2 has been taken from the institutionalcomponent and the phase 11 environmental assessment report of the UzbekistanDrainage Project;

- the project description in chapter 3 is based on the summary of the feasibility report;- chapter 4 includes the description of the environment along the KMC and Karshi

command area; this information is based on the work of national consultants;- our assessment of environmental impacts has been reported in chapter 5;- mitigation and monitoring measures have been elaborated upon in the chapters 6 and

7;- finally, chapter 8 contains the environmental management plan in view of

implementation.

Republic of Uzbekistan 1 2J07101Ministry of Agriculture and Water ResourcesProject Implementation Unit

Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabilitation Phase r Project 9Environmental AssessmentDraft Final Report

2 INSTITUTIONAL, LEGAL AND POLICY FRAMEWORK

2.1 Introduction

This chapter presents an overview and partly reviews the institutional setting for the irrigationand drainage sector on one hand and for environment on the other hand. Relevant legal andpolicy aspects are indicated. This also includes the framework for environmental assessment.

The information has been based on existing documents added with own observations andcontributions. Appendix comprises some figures and overviews of the institutional frameworkat different levels.

2.2 Institutional framework for irrigation and drainage

2.2.1 Regional institutions

As mentioned before, the irrigated agricultural sector in Uzbekistan heavily depends on riverflows coming from upstream countries (Kyrgyzstan and Tadjikistan). Most irrigationdevelopments in the country took place during the Soviet period prior to 1 990. During thatperiod the water resources of Central Asia were considered as a resource of the entire SovietUnion. Water use and water distribution between and within the republics of the Soviet Unionwas based on the maximum economic benefit to the Soviet Union as a whole.

During the Soviet period three regional institutions were established: two Basin WaterOrganizations (BVO), one for the Amu Darya and one for the Syrdarya river basin, and SANIIRI,the Central Asia Scientific Research Institute for Irrigation. The latter was established already in1925.

After independence the necessity arose to create a mechanism for regional cooperation inwater management. The five republics concerned (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan,Tadjikistan and Turkmenistan) adopted several agreements which are the basis for theinstitutional arrangements presently in place. The most important agreements are:

The Declaration of October 12, 1991 confirming the need to abide to the principles of waterdistribution as formulated during the Soviet period until new water sharing arrangements wouldbe worked out;The Agreement dated 1 8 February 1 992, which led to the establishment of the InterstateCommission for Water Coordination (ICWC). The earlier mentioned Amu Darya and SyrdaryaBVOs became executive bodies of the ICWC.

Later on, with the Aral Sea basin programme extension two new organizations wereestablished: the Interstate Council for the Aral Sea (ICAS) for programme coordination and theInternational Fund for saving the Aral Sea (IFAS) for the mobilization of financial resources. InDecember 1993, the ICWC decided to establish an Interstate Scientific Information Programme(SIC). In February 1997 a major institutional change took place. The ICAS merged with IFAS tobecome a new IFAS and its Executive Committee (EC-IFAS). At present, the most importantregional water management institutions are:

- International Fund for the Aral Sea

Republic of Uzbekistan 1 2/07/01Ministry of Agriculture and Water ResourcesProject Implementation Unit

Karshi Pumping Cascabe Rehab,hiation Phase I Project 1 0Environmental AssessmentDraft Final Report

- Interstate Commission for Water Coordination (ICWC)- Basin Water Organizations (BVOs)- Scientific Information Centre (SIC)- International Sustainable Development Commission (ISDC).

2.2.2 National Institutions

Central Level Institutions

The institutional set-up of water management in Uzbekistan is very complex. The system ishighly centralized and major decisions are taken at the highest level of the political system, theCabinet of Ministers headed by the President of the Republic. Ministries in Uzbekistan areexecuting bodies of the Cabinet of Ministers. Several Ministries and quasi-ministerialorganizations are responsible for water management in Uzbekistan. The most important are:

The Ministry of Agriculture and Water Resources, responsible for the surface waters;The Ministry of Municipal Affairs, responsible for water supply and wastewater treatment;The Ministry of Energy and Electrification controls hydropower stations and manages theassociated reservoirs;The State Committee on Nature Conservation, responsible for the control and improvement ofthe use of surface waters; the Committee falls directly under Parliament;The State Committee of Geology and Mineral Reserves, responsible for the monitoring andcontrol of groundwater;Glavgidromet responsible for the monitoring of water quality in rivers, lakes and reservoirs.Glavgidromet has a ministerial status.

The most important central level institution in the field of irrigation and drainage is the Ministryof Agriculture and Water Resources (MAWR). In autumn 1 997 this Ministry was formed by themierger of the Ministry of Melioration and Water Management and the Ministry of Agriculture.The Ministry has two subordinated executive bodies at oblast (Oblselvodkhoz) and district(Rayselvodkhoz) level.

Activities of the Ministry related to water management and land reclamation belong to theresponsibility of a First Deputy Minister. There are eight Offices or Directorates who directlyreport to the First Deputy Minister:

Directorate of Water Resources Balance. This Directorate plays a key role in bringing togetherdemand and supply of irrigation water. It also controls whether water supply is in accordancewith fixed limits, as set by the Ministry.Directorate of Hydro-melioration Systems Operation. This Directorate plays a pivotal role in thefunding of operation and maintenance (O&M) costs of the entire irrigation and drainageinfrastructure of the country.Directorate of Land Reclamation. This Directorate is responsible for the monitoring of theameliorative conditions of lands (water logging and salinity) and the maintenance of the inter-farm and main collector system.Directorate of On-Farm Irrigation Systems and Ameliorative Networks. This Directorate isinvolved in the monitoring of the status of the on-farm irrigation and drainage network. It is alsoinvolved in the establishment of Water Users Organizations;Directorate of Reservoirs. This Directorate is responsible for the monitoring of the technicalconditions and safety of the 54 reservoirs belonging to the MAWR;


Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabilitation Phase I ProjectEnvironmental AssessmentDraft Final Report

Directorate of Pumping Stations and Energy. The main task of the directorate is to rendertechnical support to rayon and oblast divisions for the repair of pumping stations, wells, energysupply lines and transformer sub-stations;Directorate of Technical Review;Directorate for Automation, Tele-mechanics and Communication. This is a recently createdDirectorate in charge of the development and introduction of Automation and Tele-mechanicalcontrol of hydro-ameliorative systems.

Besides the above-mentioned Directorates the MAWR includes a range of other institutionalentities in the area of planning, design, construction and research. These concern institutionslike UZVODPROEKT, UZGIPROVODKHOZ, UZGIPROMELIOVODKOZ and some smallerinstitutions for specific oblasts. Each unit has its own office and bank account.

Special mentioning should be made of the Republican Association UZVODREMEXPLUATATSIA.This organization is within the MAWR responsible for the management, operation andmaintenance (MOM) of 17 large infrastructural complexes of strategic importance or inter-provincial in nature. Among them is the Karshi Main Canal (KMC), which includes the KPC, andthe big (transboundary) collectors as the Yuzny collector.

The Dostluk Construction Department of GIDROMEKHANIZATSIA is responsible for thedredging activities in the Amu Darya ad in the lead channel from the river intake to pumpingstation no. 1 (PS1).

2.2.3 Local Level Institutions

Local level institutions are practically the executive bodies of the MAWR at oblast(Oblselvodkhoz) and rayon (Rayselvodkhoz) level. Directorates at oblast level are thereforesimilar to those at central level. They are for Kashkadarya:

Under the Deputy Operation of Water Management Systems:Department of Water Resources and Melioration which main function is the measurement andmonitoring of the oblast level water resources and the prediction of water availability;Department of Rational Water Use and Introduction of New Technologies, preparing the oblastwater balance and preparing lists with water requirements;Department for Pumping Stations, Energy and Communications for the maintenance of pumps,wells and energy supply lines, and making contracts with energy supply organizations;

Under the Deputy Water Management:Department for Inter-Farm Hydromeliorative Networks and Structures in charge of the operationand maintenance of irrigation infrastructure; this department has 3 directorates at oblast and14 at rayon level (for inter-farm networks);Department for On-Farm Hydromeliorative Networks and Structures in charge of the monitoringof the status of the on-farm irrigation and drainage infrastructure;

Moreover, two water management organizations are directly responsible to the central MAWR:Directorate for KMK OperationsCollector Drainage Network Directorate (with an operational relation to Obiselvodkhoz)Directorate of Land Reclamation responsible for the monitoring of ground water and salinitylevels, operation and maintenance of the inter-farm and main collector system, as well asvertical drainage systems (with operational links to the Oblselvodkhozes).


Karshi Pumping Cascade Renabilitaton Phase l Pro.ect 1 2Environmental AssessmentDraft Final Report

The Rayselvodkhoz is the water management administration at rayon level. The activities ofRayselvodkhoz concentrate on water distribution and allocation to the former sovkhozes andkolkhozes. It is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the inter-farm irrigationnetwork. The Rayselvodkhoz determines the water requirements for each farm based on fixedirrigation and crop norms. Aggregated assessments are then passed up to oblast level. TheRayselvodkhoz usually has several branches, each serving 3-5 farms.

The Karshi irrigation command area is part of the Kashkadarya Oblast. As the irrigation anddrainage infrastructure is devided into administrative rather than hydrological units, much of theinformation that is given is applicable to the entire oblast and not to the Karshi area only.Appendix E contains a few organizational charts.

Completely separate from the above institutions are the Regional Committee for Nature Controlwith a link to Goscompriroda, and UZVODSTROJ for the special implementation of works. It isdirectly monitored by the Cabinet of Ministers and supervises water management constructiontrusts.

2.2.4 Farm Level Institutions

For a better understanding of the methods of irrigation management at farm level it isnecessary to refer to the basic principles of how the water distribution was organized in theformer sovkhozes and kolkhozes (FSKs). The territory of the FSKs was usually divided into 3 to5 agricultural production sections, which were further subdivided into brigades. Each brigadewas responsible for an area of 100-150 ha on average. During the irrigation season brigadesreceived water on a continuous basis through brigades irrigation ditches with a capacities of100-200 I/sec.

FSKs employed between 1-4 water management staff responsible for water distribution andoperation and maintenance within the farm area. They were also responsible for the calculationof water requirements according to the fixed norms to be forwarded to the Rayselvodkhoz.

The Rayselvodkhoz supplied the FSKs with water, sometimes by one but mostly throughseveral water delivery points equipped with (not always operational) water measuring facilitiesIhydroposts). In principal, records were kept of the amount of water delivered, signed by bothparties.

With the agricultural reform process the FSKs are gradually split-up in various production unitswith different sizes. Most FSKs now comprise large cooperative farms or shirkats (with a sizeof several hundreds of ha), various private farms with areas of 10-60 ha, many small dekhkanfarms. This process causes water allocation and scheduling problems within the entire FSK andincreasingly also at the inter-farm level. These problems are currently most visible at theinterfaces between the shirkat and new private and dekhkan farms. The FSK management isusually not in a position to adequately respond to these problems. Even more so as in mostcases the system is not designed for the new modes of water allocation and scheduling whichare required.

Republic of Uzbekistan 12/07/01Ministry of Agriculture and Water ResourcesProject implementation Unit

Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabilitation Phase l Project 1 3Environmental AssessmentDraft Final Report

Only in few cases new multi-purpose associations of private farming units have beenestablished to take over all rights and obligations of the FSK management, including theresponsibility for the management, operation and maintenance of the FSK irrigation anddrainage infrastructure.

2.3 Legal and policy aspects in view of irrigation and drainage

The most important legal document is the "Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan on Water Usage"signed by the President of the Republic on May 6, 1 993. Some amendments to the law wereintroduced later. Some specific points of the law w,ll be briefly highlighted below:

2.3.1 Ownership

Article 3 of the law stipulates that water is a State property, subject to rational use andprotected by the State.Article 49, dealing with peculiarities of water usage for irrigated land, stipulates that lands ofwater reserves, inter-state canals and installations and intake works for underground waterwhich are situated within irrigated land, irrespective of the form of ownership and land usage,and used as a unified water management system, are State property and not available forprivatization. This article - or at least its translation in English - can be interpreted in differentways. But one may assume that all off-farm irrigation infrastructures (or at least the land onwhich these facilities are build) are not available for privatization. All on-farm facilities areowned by the shirkats replacing the former sovkhozes and kolkhozes, or by Associations thathave taken over all the rights and obligations of the shirkats.

2.3.2 Water Rights

There are several articles in the law that deal with water rights,

Article 22 differentiates between "general" and "special" water usage. The latter means thatthe use of water is linked to the use of facilities that affect the water regime.

Article 23 differentiates between "joint" and "isolated" usage. The latter should probably ratherbe interpreted in terms of "exclusive" usage granted to a specific enterprise or organization.

A very important article for the management and administration of, for instance, Water UsersAssociations is Article 24, on primary and secondary water usage. The article reads as follows:

Enterprises, organizations and institutions, which have been granted isolated usage of water, areprimary water consumers and have the right to permit other enterprises, organizations,institutions and citizens secondary water usage, by agreement with bodies of watermanagement and for nature conservation.The article further stipulates that:Where necessary, the condition for secondary usage, mutual rights and obligations of the partiesare set out in a contract between the primary and secondary water consumers.

This article, therefore, seems to be able to provide, where necessary, a sound legal basis forthe regulation of water deliveries between a Water Users Association and its members.Clearance by the MAWR and the State Committee on Nature Conservation of the agreementstems from the fact that these institutions are granting special water usage rights (Article 27).


Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabilitaticn Phase I Project 1 4Environmental AssessmentDraft Final Reoort

Article 27 deals with the procedures for giving permission for special water usage. It stipulatesthat special water usage is carried out on the basis of permission, granted by the StateCommittee on Nature Conservation, according to proposals by the Ministry for LandImprovement and Water Management.In the meantime the Ministry of Land Reclamation and Water Management have merged withthe Ministry of Agriculture to form MAWR. It is understood that all former sovkhozes andkolkhozes were (and still are) in the possession of special water usage rights.

2.3.3 Payment for Water

Article 6 of the law stipulates that it is in the jurisdiction of the Cabinet of Ministers to establisha procedure for the payment of water usage and compensation for pollution and exhaustion ofwater resources. This is again confirmed in Article 30, which specifies that full or part paymentwill be introduced to cover salaries of staff and the preservation and restoration of the waterfacilities. The Cabinet of Ministers will set the conditions and procedures.

2.3.4 Improvements

Article 50, dealing with the obligations of the water consumers, encourages the consumers tocarry out irrigation and land improvement work. The Land Code of the Republic of Uzbekistan(signed on 30 April 1998) is much more explicit in this respect as it provides legal and naturalpersons conducting land conservation and reclamation activities with tax, loans and otheradvantages when introducing efficient and resource saving technologies. The code is not a lawhowever and the possibilities are not backed up by a concrete programme.

2.3.5 Disputes

Article 88 stipulates that it is under the jurisdiction of the district authorities to settle disputesover water usage between collective farms, peasant holdings and other enterprises. It isassumed that this is the District Court. An appeal against a decision does not suspend itsimplementation.

2.4 Institutional framework for environmental management

2.4.1 Goskompriroda and its mandate

The mandate of Goskompriroda is based on the "Regulation on the State EnvironmentalCommittee of the Republic of Uzbekistan" as approved by Parliament on 26 April 1996. Itassigns "Goskompriroda with the responsibility of supervising, coordinating and implementingthe state's control over environmental protection and the usage and renewal of naturalresources, not only at the center but also at the oblast and rayon (district) level".

Goskompriroda should analyses the impacts of anthropogenic activities, exercise the stateecological expertise (SEE) for projects and programs with potential adverse impacts to theenvironment, stimulate low waste technologies, arrange implementation of ecologicalregulations and standards, coordinate environmental programs, elaborate the structure forenvironmental monitoring, govern nature reserves, etc.


Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabilitation Phase I Project 1 5Environmental AssessmentDratt Final Report

Moreover, Goskompriroda should approve regulations proposed by the environmentalcommittees at various levels. It should also issue permissions for pollution discharges,emissions and may prohibit projects and construction works that do not comply with(environmental! legislation.

2.4.2 Organisational structure Goskompriroda

The organisational structure of Goskompriroda is presented in Figure 2 of Appendix 5. Itconsists of:

- central body in Tashkent;- regional and district branches;- agencies for scientific and technical support.

Goskompriroda in Tashkent consists of various authorities and departments. The authoritieshave responsibilities in the field of protection of air, water and land resources. The departmentsreflect other administrative and technical responsibilities related to environmental standards,environmental law, international relations, environmental fund, etc. Three remaining unitsconcern economics, propaganda and governmental ecological review. The latter has theresponsibility for EA and SEE (see section 3.3.4).

At regional level, departments, inspectorates and protection committees are distinguished. Theinspectorates are the public bodies for regional enforcement of environmental protection. Inprinciple, laboratories exist in each Region besides an environmental laboratory in Tashkent atthe Centre Ecology for water Management. One of the departments concerns ecologicalreview, standards and organisation of nature use. Protection Committees exist at Region,District and city levels, depending on the environmental problems.

The supporting agencies for Goskompriroda are more or less independent. These concerninspectorates, research institutes and nature reserve organisations.

2.4.3 Developments of EA and SEE

In Environmental Impact Assessment, two parallel procedures are distinguished:preparation of the EA; this is the responsibility of the project proponent;

- review of the EA, or State Ecological Expertiza (SEE); this is the responsibility of theregulator.

Under the Environmental Protection law, SEE was arranged for 9 types of projects/programmes/activities. The law prohibits project implementation without a positive SEE. In 1997,Goskompriroda published "Operational Directives: Order of carrying out of State EcologicalExpertise, 1997".

The proponent of a project for which SEE is required, is obliged to assemble a draft document(EA) that includes:

- description of environmental features like air conditions, surface and groundwater,soils, geology, flora and fauna;

- present analyses and assessments of real alternatives to the proposed activity;- describe the principal options considered relative to engineering and technology;- describe the basic characteristics of the use of natural resources and pollution

generation;

Republic o1 Uzbekistan 1 2i07/01Ministry of Agriculture and Water ResourcesProject Implementation Unit

Karshr Pumping Cascade Rehabilitation Phase I Project 1 6Environmentai AssessmentDraft Final Repoz

- give expert assessment and a forecast of environmental changes, that will result fromthe proposed project;

- propose measures to prevent or mitigate the possibility of adverse environmentalimpacts.

The basic findings are described in an explanatory note, called the "Application about EcologicalConsequences" (AEC). Goskompriroda reviews the EA report and materials either at centrallevel - if the project is large scale or has high environmental risk - or at regional level if scaleand risk is limited. A formal public hearing on the draft EA report is held if required. In additionto the EA, a special document "Environmental Passport" may be needed for the operation ofenterprises

Despite all requirements presented above, actual implementation of the EIA process has notbeen satisfactory. Therefore, the Government plans to adopt the new Law on EcologicalExpertise. Goskompriroda has prepared a draft of this law and sent it to the Parliament forapproval.

2.4.4 Review of Goskompriroda and EA capacity

The Institutional Strengthening project at Goskompriroda (ADB, 1997 has evaluated theexisting EA capacity. Some of the constraints it identified are listed below:

Organisational framework- inadequate coordination between environmental and sector agencies to incorporate

environmental issues in the national development agenda;- low accountability of both environmental and sector agencies in relation to

implementation and enforcement of their environmental commitments;- lack of private and independent environmental consultancy for support.

Legal framework- insufficient high level awareness; great differences in commitment to environmental

protection and rational use of natural resources between sectors, local authorities,private sector and population;

- lack of EA legislative framework as well as inconsistencies between environmental andsector investment, tax and economic legislation;

- increasing environmental non-compliance and poor enforcement of legislation as wellas prosecution for environmental violations.

EA and SEE process and system- limited administrative, technical and human capacity of the EA and SEE department to

manage, guide EA&SEE process as well as facilitate planning, design and decisionmaking process in the country;

- a significant number of projects are financed and implemented without EA and SEEreview (e.g. establishment lake Kumsultan or Sichankul);

- limited public consultation and participation in the EA & SEE process as well asinadequate information and data management and dissemination;

- absence of alternatives for EA, like environmental audit, risk and health assessment,social assessment, regional and sector EA.


Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabilitation Phase ! Pro 1ect 1 7Environmental AssessmentDraft Final Report

2.4.5 Institutional environmental capacity in other organizations

Appendix D indicates the governmental capacity for environmental management. At all levels,environmental responsibilities have been assigned. But the capacity and professional expertiseare limited. In many organisations, the capacity was identified as "<1", meaning there is nodedicated professional with exclusive responsibility for environmental management.

2.5 Environmental policies, laws and regulations

2.5.1 Regional and National Level

In the short period sfnce independence, Uzbekistan has declared numerous (> 100) laws,revisions of old legislation and resources management policies designed to addressenvironmental problems and manage environmental resources. Relevant laws in the frameworkof the present project include:

- Law on Environmental Protection (1992), establishing a legal, economic andorganisational framework for environment protection, ensuring sustainabledevelopment and defining principles including SEE;

- Law on the Water and Water Use (1 993), ensuring rational water use, protection ofwater resources, prevention and mitigation of negative impacts and compliance withnational legislation;

- Law on Subterranean Resources (1994), clarifying the rights of resources' users andensuring its rational use and protection; SEE for mining and related projects ismandated by this law;

- Law on the Concept of National Security (1997), a principle framework for achievingnational ecological security.

Within the framework of the ongoing project for Institutional Strengthening of Goskompriroda(ADB funded), a draft document has been prepared named "Statute of the Republic ofUzbekistan on Ecological Expertise". This draft law comprises new legislation on ecologicalexpertise (see section 3.3.4).

Uzbekistan has signed a number of international and bilateral environmental agreements andcooperation protocols. These include Climatic Change Convention (UN, 1 993), BiologicalDiversity Convention (1995), Basel Convention (1995-1996), Combat Desertification (1995),Cultural Heritage (1995), CITES (Flora and Fauna) (1997).

Within the framework of CIS, Uzbekistan is member of the Inter State Ecological Council forharmonisation of environmental legislation, elaboration on EA and developing economic toolsfor environmental protection, and has established the Inter State Environmental Fund forfinancing environmental protection in inter state and regional programmes. Recently the Primeministers of Kazakhstan, Kyrgizstan and Uzbekistan signed an agreement on environmentalprotection and rational use of natural resources (1998).


Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabilitation Phase ! Project 1 8Environmental AssessmentDraft Final Report

The Nature Protection Committee collects fees for resource use, charges for permitted levels ofwastes, and fines for pollution offences at the oblast levels. Moneys generated from thesesources go to the Nature Protection Fund, and are used to support costs of environmentalprotections activities; 75 percent of the money collected is used at the oblast level on localprojects; and 25 percent is sent to the republican level fund use on special projects. Arepublican level Board, which is comprised of members from the Goskompriroda as well asseveral other state agencies, meets twice a year to decide how the funds should be spent.

Legislation in Uzbekistan also provides for economic incentives for using pollution controltechnology in tax credits and other advantages to enterprises for introduction of wasteminimisation and resource saving techniques, for carrying out activities that provideenvironmental protection and rehabilitation and for setting favorable prices for ecologically cleanproduction.

2.5.2 Local Level: Definition of Protection Zones along KMC and Talimarjan reservoir

Passport of water protection zone of PS and KMC in Niyazov Denev Khodjambass Oblast ofTurkmen Republic

According to the decision of Lebap oblast Khokim, a water protection zone of 3725 ha. alongKMC and pump stations were announced. The territory of water protection zone was defined ata width of 100/150 m. The announcement was confirmed by a document of Cabinet ofMinisters on April 7, 1 992, No 1 74. The rule prohibits the following in water bodies:

- Use of organic and mineral fertilisers;- Cutting of trees and bushes;- Organisation of pastures and cattle keeping places in summer time;- Construction of objects and expansion existing once;- Washing of transport, equipment for introducing minerals.

Moreover, protection zones should be provided with green belts and sanitation norms should beapplied. The leaders of kolkhozes and sovkhozes , enterprises, organizations and citizens are allresponsible in the water protection zone to maintain the regulations set out.

Decision of the Nishan Rayon Khokim, September 26, 1994, No X-323/9 c Yangy Nishan;concerning definition of the coastal area and protection zones along KMC

According to the decision of the Kashkadarya oblast Khokim dated March 16, 1992 (No. 61/3)and after learning the documents about definition of coastal area and protection zone of theKMC crossing the territory of Nishan rayon farms, the following decisions were taken(confirmed by oblast and rayon decision on definition of coastal and protection zone of KMCdated May 10, 1994):

- To confirm rayon farms along the KMC to be shifted;- The right of land use by the rayon can be preserved if required;- The leaders of farms and population living in the territory of farms should obey the

regulation of Republic of Uzbekistan about "Water ponds and protection of watercourses";

- To ask the head of the Rayon Nature Control Committee to strengthen the control ofKarshi Main Canal coastal area territory and protection zone.

- To request confirmation of this decision by the Karshi Oblast Khokim.


Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehac ciiatior Phase j Project 1 9Environmentai AssessmentDraft Final Reoort

Passport of the water protection zone of the bypass canal in Nishan rayon of Kashkadaryaoblast

Water Protection Zone circumferencing, at 300 m distance from the water surfaces, an area of1 90 km2 including Talimarjan reservoir, by-pass canal and the area in between. Management ofthis zones and letting of respective orders lies under the responsibility of Karshi Goscompriroda.It has been reported that all potentially adverse activities including industrial and agricultural,have been moved out of this zone.

It was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers republic of Uzbekistan on April 7,1992 (No. 174).According to the regulations the same is valid as indicated above for the Turkmen side.

2.6 Requirements for environmental assessment

The purpose of an EA is to improve the decision-making process and to ensure that the projectoptions under consideration are environmentally sound and sustainable. EA aims at identifyingand addressing main environmental issues in a timely and cost effective way. It also providesthe formal possibility to incorporate the concerns of affected groups and local non-governmental organisations. Moreover, EA plays an important role in supporting environmentalmanagement capacity.

The World Bank distinguishes different types of environmental analysis:- project specific EA (PSEA) to examine specific investment projects;- regional EA may be applied where a number of similar but significant development

activities with potentially cumuiative impacts are planned within a certain region or e.g.catchment area;

- sector EA (SEA) is used for the design of sector investment programmes;

Alternatives may be applied in case a full EA is not needed; alternative approaches include:- application of specific environmental design and/or siting criteria for small scale

industries;- full social assessment might be required in case large scale or serious sociological or

socio-economic impacts are expected.

The level of detail of the environmental analysis depends on the scale of the works that areproposed and the magnitude of the environmental impacts. The following categories, selectedby best professional judgement, are distinguished:

- Category A: a full EA is required in case significant adverse impacts are expected; largescale irrigation and drainage works are often category A;

- Category B: although a full EA is not required, an environmental analysis should becarried out, as the project may have adverse environmental impacts (which arehowever expected to be less significant than under cat. A);

- Category C: no EA or environmental analysis is required for projects without expectedadverse environmental impacts.


Karshs Pumping Cascade Rehabsl:tat,on Phase I Project 20Environmental AssessneneDraft Final Report

In the framework of World bank lending programmes, the preparation of environmental datasheets is required for projects proposed. These sheets contain the most essential environmentalinformation as well as the category determination

Figure lpresents the different steps in the project cycle and shows how the various EA phasesfit in the projec. preparation process. The main EA phases concern screening, scoping, EA, andduring and after implementation of the project environmental management covering mitigation,monitoring and evaluation.

The main environmental issues and possible mitigation measures for the irrigation and drainagesector are indicated in the World bank guidelines on Environmental Assessment. Based on thatlist and our expert judgement, a set of relevant criteria was selected and presented later in thisreport.

The status of the present Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabilitation Project can be characterisedas follows (with reference to Figure 11:

- the KPCRP project is has been identified as a category B project;

- the project is in the feasibility phase of the project cycle;

- at the end of feasibility phase decisions should be taken; public participation is carriedout through the social assessment; so far within the EA local authorities and populationhave been consulted only during field trips, workshops, bilateral discussions, etc.;

the environmental study closely cooperates with Uzgipromeliovodkhoz of the MAWMthat will initiate the eventual implementation of proposed works; moreover, expertsfrom various other organizations like Goscompriroda, University, Saniiri, etc. areinvolved in the analyses;

a number of experts from Turkmenistan are involved because of their knowledge,because of public participation purposes and because of the transboundary issues.

Republic of Uzbekistan 12(07/01Ministry of Agriculture and Water ResourcesProject Implementation Unit

Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabilratior Phase I Prole-- 21Environmental AssessmentDraft Final Report

Project Cycle Environmental Assessment

c Nc E A rnquired

P |Pre-fe asib iS> Stuidy | |Screening tK- A

Scoping & Pubitc Scoping & Public Con-

_ I Constllsatl~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~~~~no -litnt-: 113 anr rnUriatel

ToR and EA Tean ToR and EATeansFeasibility Study | 1-rnn Selection

o l EA P,eparavc-n EA Preparation.

, r Exammne alternatives -Assess Impacts; and/or

r ~~~Project Planning andr Assess imnpacts - Mlttigalbon plan; or

Detailed Design E MP's Carry out Audn; orT ~~~~~Assess hazards

G jr X jr I R~~~~~~~~~~~~~~eview Environmental

Lr Project Appraisal . Secton in Appraisaln nPublic Consultation

Compl n .rt Report

Loan Negaluation

_ | ~~Loan Approval tf

F Monitoring Environmental ARepu-lic If ekisn 12/071Quality

c I~~Projecti mplemena|

MEnistr of Agricultion and Supervi Resourc

Eroect Monmtortng MioUation

_~ ~~~~~~ 1Measures

l l l | ~Implementation 4 .| | c | | Completbon Report | Evaluate EA fleport

| | G | it | E~~~~~~~~~~~~~valuate Mtigation Plan

l l l | ~Performance A7,dt|

| L |~~~and OED Eva uat, on | vaiuate In ttution

Figure 1 Environmental Assessment and the World Bank Project Cycle

Republic of Uzbekistan I 2/0 7101

Ministry of Agriculture and Water ResourcesProject Implementation Unit


3 PROJECT DESCRIPTION

3.1 Introduction

3.1.1 The pumping cascade

The Karshi Pumping Cascade lifts water from the Amu Darya in Turkmenistan to irrigate around400 000 ha of the Karshi Steppe in Kashkadarya Oblast of south Uzbekistan. The area isinhabited by some 1.5 million people who largely depend on this source of water for theirlivelihood. Much of the cascade was constructed in the early 1 970s and its reliability hasreduced in recent years as the installed equipment nears the end of its useful life. The presentProject is focused on identifying and implementing the immediate rehabilitation needs to securecontinued water supplies through the cascade in the short to medium term.

The intake channel for the pumping cascade located on the Amu Darya is unregulated andsubject to the annual movements of this major river. Difficulties exist in ensuring that the rivercontinues to supply the intake canal under low flow conditions. Moreover, despite continuousdredging, the 20 km long unlined channel suffers from siltation problems and is frequentlyunable to provide flows to the first pumping station at an acceptable level. Seven pumpingstations (PS) in series on the Karshi Main Canal (KMC) lift water a maximum of 1 60 m tostorage in Talimarjan Reservoir. The plant in the lower pumping stations in particular hasachieved very high operational hours and much is in need of replacement.

The 150 m3/s (peak) capacity Mirishkor Main Canal leaving the KMC between PS 4 and 5 takesa significant proportion of the abstracted flow to irrigate the western portion of Karshi Steppe.Downstream of PS 6 the KMC bifurcates. In summer water is passed west of TalimarjanReservoir along a 1 20 m3/s capacity by-pass channel, whilst in autumn through to early springwater is pumped via PS 7 into the 1 525 million m3 capacity Talimarjan storage reservoir. Upto 350 m3/s is released from the reservoir during the summer via a short reach of the KMC tojoin the bypass flow and feed the irrigation system. The large workshop facility located atTalimarjan is also in need of refurbishment.

3.1.2 The Amu Darya as water source

Many of the problems associated with operating the cascade stem from less than favourableintake arrangements, particularly high sediment entry.

The intake is without control, located immediately downstream of a rock bluff on the outsideon bend in the Amu Darya. Reduced river flow, arising from abstractions to Karshi Cascade, theKarakum Canal and other irrigation systems has resulted in an increase in sedimentconcentration within the river. The river has responded by steepening its slope: at the Karshiintake it is estimated that the bed level has risen by 0.5 m in the past 35 years. A similar rise isanticipated over the coming 30 years.

The rock bluff is impeding the progression of meanders downstream, resulting in bank erosionin the vicinity of Kyzyl Ayak. The erosion may be exacerbated by operations at the intake andso the Uzbek authorities are anxious that the erosion is stabilised by river training.

Republic of Uzbekistan 1 2107/01Ministry of Agriculture and Water ResourcesProject Implementation Unit

Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabilhtation Phase I Project 23Environmenta AssessmentDraft Final Repoe

The river carries an average sediment concentration of around 2 000 to 4 000 ppm, with peakconcentrations occurring in the summer months (of around 10 000 ppm in June) when demandfor water in the KMC is greatest. Sediment concentrations are about 1 5 per cent higher in theKMC intake than in the Amu Darya at Kerki.



-...

Inigaton area rnn

Wrrigatiogn caeal

- l- mgation area_ $

----- Waterlogging area ; xh f

Salinity area

(721 iDsposal basins a _Appropriated area

Figure 2 RS Image (Landsat TM, May 2000) of the Karshi Main Canal(from Amu Darya to Talimardjan)


Karshn Pumping Cascac 't he-,a5 itatior Phiase I Pro,ec, 25Environmenta AssessmentDra't Fina Reporn

3.2 General rehabilitation project components

3.2.1 Sediment Management

About 60 percenl of the incoming sediment load settles out in the first reach of the KMC: inJuly 2000 this amounted to about 2 Mt, in most months about 0.5 Mt is deposited. A mean12.8 Mm- yr is estimated to have been deposited in the period 1988 to 2000, though there isconsiderable variation between years. Dredging removed a mean 1 3.7 Mt/yr, includingexcavation within the river.

A number of options to prevent coarser sediments reaching the first pumping station, and toreduce the sediment management problem in the intake canal have been considered. Eachoption has been studied to determine its practicality and to provide an initial estimate of thesediment control benefit that might be obtained. Those passing the initial screening were thendeveloped into outline designs and their costs identified.

Continue with present sediment handling arrangements

This is essentially the without- Project case. Assumptions have been made on refurbishment ofthe existing dredging fleet and procurement of new dredging equipment, with appropriatereduction in the future total quantities of water pumped through the cascade.

Improve present intake

Widening the canal entrance and incorporating a raised was found to have a nominal affect onthe quantity of sediment entering the canal, unless the sill could be raised and loweredoptimally with water levels in the Amu Darya. The regular revision of the sill level was seen tobe operationally difficult and this option was not developed further. Existing proposals forimproving the intake were also reviewed. These included a deep cutting through Pulizindan toimprove the intake geometry and the alternative extension of the nose of the left bank of theintake canal out into the river through either a piled baffle wall structure or a moored pontoon.Such arrangements merit further study into their benefits and long-term impact on the riverwhich could be examined in Assignment B.

Move the intake to a better location

While this option predicted a useful reduction in sediment intake, the investigations indicatedthe need for multiple large diameter tunnels for maintenance and control of sedimentdeposition. A variant involving short tunnels through Pulizindan was examined in more detail.However, despite useful sediment management properties, its high cost, maintenance problemsand restrictions on the use of explosives for construction tend to rule out this option.

Short-term canal closures when high sediment loads in the Amu Darya

By closing the canal when river sediment concentrations are high, the quantity of materialdeposited can be reduced. However, concentrations are highest when water demand is highestand Talimarjan Reservoir is being drawn down. This limits operational flexibility, consequentlyless than five percent reduction in sediment load at the intake may be achieved.


Karsh Pumping Cascace PenaDilitation Phase I Project 26Environmental AssessmentDraft Fina' Report

Revised water abstraction pattern to reduce reliance on abstraction in the summer months

This would require fundamental change in water demand, through radical changes in croppingpattern. This is unlikely to be achieved in practice and the option has not been furtherdevelopedc.

Revised 'design' canal bed levels and cross-sections and modified settling basin (s dimensions

The main proposal includes moving the head of the basin 500 m upstream so that more sandsettles in the formal basin rather than the entry channel. In addition, the deposited volume hasbeen investigated for combinations of settling basin dimension with other interventions. For allvariants, a dual basin configuration is considered necessary to provide additional capacity forpeak deposition. A useful reduction in sediment handling was predicted and this option hasbeen included in the economic analysis.

Intake gates to reduce canal water levels and sedimentation during the summer period

A gated regulator would allow the canal to be operated at lower water levels in the summermonths, resulting in less fine material being deposited and a useful 25 percent reduction inannual dredging requirements. An outline design has been prepared based on four undershotradial gates plus a lock to permit passage of dredgers between the river and KMC. A review ofthe hydraulics of a modified intake channel shows that the structure could pass 205 m3 /s ataverage minimum winter water levels in the Amu Darya and with the design water level of243.18 in the forebay of PS 1. This option has also been taken forward for economic analysis.

New pump station located close to the present intake (PS 0)

This entails constructing a new pump station at about km 3.4 on the intake channel. Dredgingof a settling basin would be required upstream and possibly also downstream. The reach toPS 1 would be redesigned to transport fine sediment. This option produced the lowestsediment management volumes and was taken forward for economic analysis. However, it isan expensive option since it requires the same gates and dredger lock as for the gated headregulator option while providing limited additional benefit.

Vortex tubes downstream of a new PS 0

Using the additional head generated by a potential PS 0, trapping of summer sediment mayachieve a 24 percent trapping efficiency when about 10 percent of the intake water is passedthrough a vortex tube. The low trapping efficiencies indicate that this is not a promisingalternative.


Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabilitation Phase i Project 27Environmental AssessmentDraft Final Report

3.2.2 KMC Intake Channel

Computer modelling of the KMC from the intake to PS 1 has been carried out with ISISsoftware using the canal cross sections obtained from the October 1999 survey, and theoriginal design sections and bed levels. At a discharge of 1 95 m

3/s at PS 1, the present water

level profile was 'ound to approximate to a design bed level plus 4 m, but with differences inthe reach closest to the river where the original design section was relatively undersized. Thesimulations indicated that with bed levels and cross sections as surveyed the canal cannotdivert the design discharge when river levels fall below 245.75 m asl. Since average riverwater levels are less than this figure throughout the year, the design discharge can only bepassed by running the pumps at PS 1 with forebay water levels less than designed.

In places rock outcrops to between 1 and 2 m above the original design bed levels, and reducesthe effective length of the settling basin by about 500 m. The simulations indicate that arevised 'design' aed 2 m higher than the original may be feasible without removing largequantities of rock. At this level (and without jhe gated head regulator structure) the designdischarge could be diverted whenever river levels exceed 244.4 m asl. The minimum averageriver water level occurs in February and is 244.37. The average discharge pumped in Februaryfrom 1980 to 1997 was 86 m3/s.

Historical annual sediment deposition volumes in the intake canal have been found to vary from5.5 to 23.5 Mm3 with an average of 12.8 Mm3. The three development options chosen foreconomic analysis, the revised canal and settling basins, the same plus a gated head regulatorand the same plus a PS 0, respectively reduced the annual average dredging requirement to10.4, 7.6 and 7.4 Mm3. Other options examined provide only small reductions n predictedvolumes of sediment deposition. The provision of a twin settling basin to double the storagecapacity would permit the dredging fleet to be designed for the average sediment depositionvolume.

Two issues associated with the intake section of the KMC are an unfinished road bridge atPC 64 and a series of drainage pump stations between the Amu Darya and the KMC. Thelatter were intended to control seepage from the KMC, but are unable to cope with rising watertables caused by irrigation in the area. However provisions have been made for replacing theexisting mechanical and electrical plant. Provision has also been included for completion of theroad bridge and removal of the foundations of the existing bridge.

3.2.3 Dredging

The current dredging operation achieves a high number of hours worked but, at around60 percent utilization this is well below what should be achievable. This low utilization isattributed to a lack of spares and support equipment. Dredging capacity can be improved by:

- Introducing modern instrumentation (a 10 percent increase in output per productivehour should be achievable)

- Providing cutter heads on those dredgers lacking these, particularly if working in thecanal and settling basin

- Rehabilitation, and rebuilding the spares inventory, to reduce down time.


Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabilitation 0 hase I Project 28Environmental AssessmentDraft Final Report

Refurbishment p!ans have been drawn up under which seven dredgers would be renovated andeight would be scrapped. New ancillary equipment would be procured. Post-refurbishment,this fleet would be insufficient to cope with average deposition under existing intakearrangements, but should be adequate for some of the improved sediment management optionsunder consideration. The fleet's operation is slightly hampered by the low bridges over theintake canal and procurement of additional dredgers may be required for operational flexibility.

There is a requirement to restore the profile of the intake channel to the original design bedlevel plus 2 m. This will require the removal of the backlog of sediment deposits and also sornerock in certain unexcavated reaches. It is proposed that this work, plus the installation ofmodified twin settling basins, is carried out under a capital works contract. If required, thecontract could be arranged for the Client to take over the contractor's equipment at the end ofthe contract. The mobilization of new plant under the contract will permit existing dredgingplant to be taken out of service for refurbishment. Surveys of available disposal areas fordredged material will need to be conducted before the capital works contract can be tendered,

3.2.4 The KMC Downstream of PS 1

The 58.36 km reach of the KMC between PS 1 and PS 7 at Talimarjan Reservoir has a designcapacity of 175 m3 /s, but flows of up to 220 m3/s can be passed. The canal delivers waterinto the reservoir, into a by-pass channel around the reservoir and, downstream of PS 4, intothe Mirishkor Canal. These supplies all feed the Karshi Steppe irrigated area. In addition anarea in Turkmenistan is served from downstream of PS 1. There are varying estimates of theexact area being irrigated in Turkmenistan from the cascade, but it is in excess of 15 000 ha.Unauthorised small pumps also abstract water from the canal particularly between the AmuDarya and PS 2.

The canal is unlined upstream of PS 1, then to PS 6 has 3 m square concrete panels laid on aplastic liner. Between PS 6 and PS 7 the canal has an in situ concrete lining. Three problemshave been identified and evaluated:

- damage to the canal lining between PS 1 and PS 2- hydraulic instability between PS 2 and PS 3- sedimentation in the reach to PS 7 downstream of the bifurcation to the bypass

channel.

Only works to rehabilitate broken canal lining are proposed to be carried out under the Project.A total of 2 656 m of the lining is damaged - some 13 percent of the total between PS 1 andPS 2. Recommended repairs entail reinstating collapsed embankments - using gabionmattresses or dumped rock - replacing the broken lining and removing debris from the canal.Ideally new precast lining slabs will be used to reinstate the lining. Joints will be left open buta-filter cloth used to prevent fines washing out. The exact extent of the remedial works awaitscompletion of surveys of the underwater lining.

3.2.5 Pumping Stations PS 1 to PS 6

All six installations are similar, each having six vertical axis axial flow pumps. Each pumpdischarges into a separate 3.6 m diameter steel discharge pipeline which flows via a siphon intothe downstream canal.

Republic ot Uzbekistan 12/07/01Ministry of Agriculture and Water ResourcesProject Implementation Unit

K6rshi Pumping Cascade Re-abil taoocn Phase ' Projezt 29Environmentai AssessmnentDraf. Final Report

The pumps are driven by 10 kV electric motors equipped by rotating brush-type exciters, andare started via switched reactors. The motors are directly coupled to the pump impellers viaforged shafts. Except at PS , each pump station has two pumps with variable pitch impellers,the other four having fixed pitch designs. At PS 1, all pumps originally had variable pitchimpellers but these were welded to a fixed pitch following failure of the variable mechanisms.Instructions to s+ Ich pumps on and off are issued by telephone from a control centre inTalimarjan.

The pumps at PS 1 have a design flow of 39 m3 /s and absorbed power of 8 MW; the otherpumps have a design flow of 37 m3/s and absorbed power of 10.98 MW. All have an86 percent design efficiency. Power is supplied via a 220 kV line via a sub-station locatedbeside each station.

Pumps

Despite receiving considerable attention the condition of the pumps has deterioratedsignificantly and replacement of major components is required. The main problems include:

- The geometry of the pump suction inlet;- The discharge diffusers downstream of the pump impellers are particularly worn such

that their integrity is threatened.- The heads pumped in the cascade are higher than is normal for axial flow machines.

This is achieved through high rotational speeds, at the cost of vulnerability tocavitation and damage from suspended sediments. The original impeller profiles havebeen lost through repeated repair of these much damaged components. Material hasalso been lost from the blade tips, and probably the corresponding portion of pumpcasing, raising leakage and reducing efficiency.

- The machined wooden-segment bearings for the pump shafts require very clean waterfor lubrication/cooling and obtaining this has proven problematic. Maintenanceintervals for the bearings is very low and remedial works time-consuming. The shaftshave worn near the bearings. This has been corrected by welding and machining but asTalimarjan Workshop does not have equipment for subsequent heat treatment theprocess may have induced loss of alignment and non-uniform physical characteristics.

To tackle these problems the following is proposed:

- Substantial changes in the geometry are impractical. However, providing some form ofliner could prove effective. This might include fins or baffles structured to reducegeneration of surface vortices and improving the characteristics of the flow enteringthe impeller. It may also be possible to reduce the head losses increasing the NetPositive Suction Head (NPSH) available to the pump. A detailed model using water asthe test medium is proposed for the refurbishment contract.

- Replacement of the discharge diffusers and their alignment will be difficult to do in therestricted environment of these pumps. It is concluded that this vital task must bedone rigorously to ensure post-implementation problems are avoided. Thus completeremoval of the existing diffusers from their concrete surrounds and replacement withequivalent stainless steel elements is proposed.

Republic of Uzbekistan 1 2/07/01Ministry of Agriculture and Water ResourcesPro)ect Implementation Unit

Karshi Pumping Cascade Rerabil tation Phase Project 30Environmental AssessmentDraft Final Report

- The possibrity of replacing the existing pump design with a mixed flowv design hlasbeen exam-ined. These tend to have larger diameters than axial flow equipment andthe cost of pumpsets is correspondingly higher. Reduced running costs arising fromimproved e4f,cienc:es make such replacement attractive however. In addition, mixedflow pumps have lower NPSH requirements. It is proposed to invite bids forreplacement pumps and motors based on a performance specification and to evaluatethe alternatives on the basis of economics and technical merit.

- Changing the pump shaft bearing type to one more tolerant of the conditions in thepump stations is proposed. A cutless rubber bearing with a stainless steel sleeve onthe shafi should have a working life of five years. In addition, automatic backwashingfilters o! nyorocyclones are proposed to replace the existing settling pondarranger,ents.

Motors

- The conventional-design motors have performed satisfactorily but need majorrefurbishment or replacement. Maintaining the existing rotating exciters demandsconsiderable effort. A brushless design could be better, or a replacement static systemused. As both are equally acceptable technically, the choice will be left to thecontractor to propose. Other refurbishment required involves:

- Replacing the stator windings and rotor pole coils which are at the end of their designlives

- Replacing stator cores. Conceivably only those exhibiting damage when stripped downmight be replaced, but this introduces uncertainty into the contract scope and has thepotential to cause significant programme delays. Possibly the stators required for thefirst two years of implementation could be replaced outright and a decision onsubsequent replacement delayed until experience has been gained.

- Re-metalling the guide pads and re-facing the thrust bearings.

However, clear advantages would be derived from installing new motors and coupled withlower pump speeds there would be significant savings in annual power costs due to improvedoverall efficiencies.

3.2.6 Electrical Equipment

The existing 10 kV supply system is flexible and electrically robust. Should a transformer fail,or one section of the switchboard, four pumps at each pump station could still operate.However, the 10 kV circuit breakers have become unreliable and spare parts are unavailable.

Refurbishing the switchboard whilst avoiding outage of pumps not themselves beingrefurbished will be problematic in the relatively constrained space available. Replacement ofthe whole board is recommended, as the cost of the special design requirements for replacingpiecemeal components within the existing switchboards is likely to be similar overall. In orderto retain the operational flexibility currently enjoyed, all of the circuit breakers should bereplaced with vacuum-type equipment.

The electrical protection system uses electro-mechanical relays which need replacing. Acomputer chip based system, integrated into the SCADA system is proposed.

Repubiic of Uzbektstan 12/07/01Ministry of Agriculture and Water ResourcesProject Implementation Unit

Karshi Pump ng Cascacae Reabitat on-i Pnase J Project 3 1Environmentai Assessa-nm-Draft Final Reporn

The 380 V systems which power ancillary equipment at the pumping stations are of an olddesign and at the end of their operational life. For future reliable operation at least costcomplete replacement iS proposed.

3.2.7 Discharge Pipelines

A comprehensive survey of the 3.6 rm diameter steel discharge pipelines has shown that:- they have Zost about half of the.r original thickness; the largest reduction observed was

60 per cent- relatively greater loss has occurred along the pipe invert than close to the soffit- relatively greater loss has occurred close to the pump station than towards the

downstream end- inspect:on of sections of pipe at PS 6 showed no evidence of the polishing expected

when wear is from abrasion.

The data suggests that both corrosion and erosion play a role in loss of section. The pipesregularly drain down and the unventilated humid, hot interior encourages corrosion. Thecorrosion products are then removed by erosion from the high velocity sediment-laden water.

A stress analysis of the discharge pipelines has been carried out. This has confirmed that thepresent wall thicknesses are close to a factor of safety of 1 under the most severe loadingconditions. However local strengthening of critical areas is feasible rather than replacement ofwhole pipe sections. Ideally such strengthening should be carried out on the inside of the pipe,but for practical reasons it will be carried out externally.

A suitable internal protective coating is proposed to prevent or slow down loss of wallthickness, together with an external protective coating. Several possible alternatives have beenexamined.

3.2.8 Control System

The present control system is based on instructions sent by telephone from the Talimarjancontrol centre. At individual pump stations local decisions are permitted (requiring reportingback to the control centre) allowing pumps to be started or stopped if the local situationdemands - for example a pump shut down should water levels in the forebay become too low.At the Talimarjan centre, operational conditions are indicated on a mimic diagram, but the dataare entered manually.

Whilst the control system should be adequate, the cavitation damage evident in pumps from PS2 to PS 6 indicates that the arrangement is not wholly effective. This cavitation damage couldbe largely avoided by switching pumps off as the forebay levels become low. Insufficientcommunication, possibly exacerbated by pressures to operate more pumps than the flow in thecanal demands, is an important factor here. At PS 1, proper control requires taking intoaccount:

- Amu Darya water level- water level in PS 1 forebay- water level downstream of PS 1- water required for irrigation- water level in Talimarjan Reservoir

Republic of Uzbekistan 1 2107/01Ministry of Agriculture and Water ResourcesProlect Implementation Unit

Karsht Pumping Cassade Rer.abii tazion Phase i Project 32Environmental AssessmentDraft Final Report

- energy availability- pumps available at PS 2 to PS 6- annual .c ater ent.tlement.

It is proposed tha, the logic for control is incorporated into equipment installed at PS 1. Thecontrol systemn v,;i I Incorporate external information via a communications system, but if this istemporarily inoperable, the system would continue to operate using previous data plus localwater ievel measurements. In the event of the gated regulator being constructed on the intakecanal, this will also have to be co-ordinated with operation of PS 1.

A terminal in the MAWR offices in Tashken( is proposed so that ;nformation on poweravailability (whicn can change at snort notice) can be input directly.

PS 2 to PS 6 must operate in response to what happens at PS 1. An automatic control systemwould ensure the pumps are operated within parameters that avoid mal-operation. As a manualoverride would be required, it will be necessary to educate station staff on the restricted use ofsuch an override, and to enforce rules governing this.

Canal flow measurement is proposed through ultrasonic clamp-on devices fixed (withoutcutting) to the discharge pipes at all pumping stations. This will permit the efficiency ofindividual pumpsets to be monitored for to the benefit of maintenance planning, andfurthermore improve measurement of the flows supplied to Uzbekistan, the diversions into theMirishkor Canal, through the Bypass Canal and into Talimarjan Reservoir.

Ultrasonic water level measuring devices will be provided upstream and downstream of allpump stations and at the proposed gated head regulator on the intake channel.

Remote Terminal Units (RTUI) are proposed for:- scanning and logging variable parameters- detection of alarms- recording key data

3.2.9 Communications and SCADA Systems

The existing communications system needs minor refurbishment. However, the system cannotconvey all the information needed for a modern supervisory control system. Therefore it isrecommended it is retained as a backup system but that either a UHF radio system or a fibreoptic system is provided. The former is preferred as it is less dependent on actions by others(such as inadvertently being dug up). It is recommended that a radio frequency allocation issought from the Turkmen authorities for this, but until forthcoming the alternative fibre opticoption is developed in parallel.

The UHF system would have a transmitter located at a base station in Talimarjan and UHFdevices at all pumping stations, plus the proposed gated head regulator on the KMC. Repeaterswould be needed at PS 1 and PS 3 to allow data transmission in simplex mode with a 15 Woutput power system. Separate channels will be provided for data and voice transmission. Byusing 'store and forward' capability in the remote terminal units, it will not be necessary toinstall repeater stations for data transmission.

A SCADA system would be provided to:


Karshi Pumpn-ig _asc - ;enabi'ab,l- rl Phase ' Projec, 33Environmenzal Assess rer -

Draft Fina: Report

- improve operational effectiveness by providing accurate and timely information onflows and vwater levels

- allovw faster responses to major problems- give management timely information allowing better operational and strategic decisions- avoid management's dependence on the knowledge of a small cadre of staff for

satisfac,o'y operation.

A decen:ra,isecj system is recommended as this is considered to be more robust. The maincontrol centre should be configured with open system architecture, with functionality sharedwith sub-systems. Data handling and switching information would be shared using a Local AreaNetwork (LAN).

3.2.10 Talimarjan Reservoir

Talimarjan Reservoir is an off-stream storage reservoir with an active volume of 1 400 hm3 thatsupplies supplementary irrigation water to the eastern part of the Karshi Steppe. Commissionedin 1983 it has two embankments: the main embankment is 9 745 m long with a maximumheight of 35 m while a 1 000 m long embankment of 36 m maximum height closes adepression in the north-west. The inlet structure for filling the reservoir from PS 7 is located onthe main embankment. The bottom outlet structure (of 360 m3Is capacity) for releasing waterfor irrigation is in the second embankment. The reservoir has effectively no catchment areaand is not provided with a spillway. It would take up to 48 days to empty the reservoir in anemergency.

The Amu Darya water delivered to the reservoir has a high silt content. If most of thissediment is deposited in the live storage rather than at the bottom of the reservoir, thedecrease in live storage to date would be of the order of 2.6 percent. The actual loss needs tobe confirmed by hydrographic survey.The embankments have been checked for stability and found to have an adequate factor ofsafety. Application of standard empirical formulae with the maximum fetch combined with themaximum wind shows the freeboard provided on the main embankment to be generous. Fieldinspections by the Consultants revealed no discernible settlement of the crest of either themain or the second embankment and this is confirmed by the results of regular monitoring. Theexterior embankment slope appears intact with no wet surfaces or deformations observed.Drainage water through the main embankment is reported as 600 (Is, which is low for such along embankment, and to be decreasing with time.

The embankments appear in sound condition with no visible evidence of stability or leakageproblems.

Republic of Uzbekistan 12/07/01Ministry of Agriculture and Water ResourcesProject implementation Unit

Karsh Pumping Ca-c,a: Rehab; tai.on Prase Project 34Environmentai AssessmentDraft Final Report

The reservoir s de of the embankments are lined with cast in-situ reinforced concrete panels.The main embankment has an intermediate berm of 5 m width that includes a reverse filter forrelieving water :ressure during rapid draw-down. It is possible that these filters do not functioneffectively since some dislocation of the panels has occurred here. Under design operationconditions wvth a ch-ange in water level of less than 0.20 mriday, no stability problems shouldarise due to consolidation of the soil structure, changes in pore water pressure or seepage. Aspresently operated however, the safe rate of draw-down is frequently exceeded (the maximumobserved rate is 0.65 rnmdayl. It is apparent that draw-down pore pressures are an issue andhave probably contributed to the movement of the concrete panels at the berm. Despite theoperational constraints, it is recommended that the reservoir be operated in conformity with thesafe rate of fillinig and releasing water that limits changes in reservoir water level to 0.2 m/dayunless practical measures can be taken to overcome the problem.

In general, the concrete lining on the embankment is in good condition. However, rehabilitationworks are needed to:

- stabilise the concrete panels at the berm- improve the vertical and horizontal joints between the panels- improve the filters and drainage- rehabilitate monitoring piezometers that are presently out of operation.

Ground radar or other non-destructive investigation methods should be used to locate voids sothese can be grouted up prior to stabilising the concrete panels. Joints between the panelsshould be resealed and additional drainage provision made. The leaking gate seals on thebottom outlet structure should be repaired or replaced.

The drainage station located at the foot of the main embankment has suffered from differentialsettlement that has rendered the travelling crane inoperable. Considerable buildingrefurbishment works are proposed plus complete replacement of the mechanical and electricalequipment.

3.2.11 Talimarjan Workshop

The existing workshop at Talimarjan is well equipped with lathes, boring mills etc, sized toallow machining and repair of the largest items of equipment installed in the cascade. Themachine tools are no longer in good condition and need refurbishment or replacement. Thebuilding consists of three bays, each with an entrance doorway suitable for large vehicles andan overhead double girder travelling crane. It is understood that the crane in the large lathe bayhas inadequate lifting capacity: its present capacity is 25 tonne, whereas a crane of 40 tonnecapacity is required. The Operating Department report that the building roof leaks badly.External and internal plasterwork is in need of repair and a large number of window panes needreplacement. The existing heating and ventilation system is not operational while the lighting isalso badly in need of refurbishment.


Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabilitatior Phase I Proje-, 35Environmental AssessmentDraft Final Reponr

One large lathe s operational and is used for machining the pump shafts. The lathe, which is30 years old, ircorporates an attachment used to dynamically balance the shafts. Adjacent tothe large lathe is a large vertical boring machine used for machining impellers and bearingbushes. This machine also incorporates an attachment used for dynamically balancing theimpellers. An additional large lathe and a second large boring machine are non-operational.There are a num-ber of small machine tools most considered to be beyond repair. Supervisorsstress the need for complete replacement of measuring instruments, that is, external andinternal micrometers etc.

Talimarjan is a small rural town and while industrial workshops are almost non existent in thearea, facilities do exist locally for the repair and re-varnishing of motor stator windingsegments. Given the size of the machine tools needed for maintenance of the cascadeequipment it is concluded that there is a need to rehabilitate the workshops at Talimarjan toenable it to continue to service the cascade plant at least in the short to medium-term. Theworkshop is critical to reliable operation of the cascade and any failure associated with specificmachine tools could well put at risk the continuity of pumping operations and the quantity ofwater pumped.

The first objective of a refurbishment programme would be to make the building watertight.The roof and windows should be repaired and the lighting reconditioned and made fullyoperational. Once this is achieved the existing machine tools can be refurbished as appropriateand new machine tools installed. The large lathe and the large vertical boring machine areconsidered suitaole for refurbishment. For the smaller machinery the economic solution wouldbe to purchase new equipment, typically one each of a medium size centre lathe, small centrelathe, medium size vertical boring machine, grinding machine and a welding machine suitablefor the repair or impeller blades. Provision of a complete set of new micrometers and othermeasuring instruments is considered essential.

An area where facilities at the workshop appear deficient is for painting and it is apparent thatpresent corrosion protection applications are generally rudimentary. A proper spray boothwould allow modern painting systems to be applied that could significantly prolong equipmentlife. However, proposals for upgrading the capacity of the main overhead crane and extendinga railway line into the workshop need further study

3.2.12 Operation and Maintenance

There are effectively three organisations charged with operation and maintenance (O&M) of theKarshi Pumping Cascade and its associated irrigation system. The Dostluk ConstructionDepartment of Hydromechanisation has responsibilities for dredging activities in the Amu Daryaand the intake section of the KMC. The Operating Department of the KMC (ODKMC) hasresponsibility for the KMC (excluding dredging works), for the pumping stations, TalimarjanReservoir and Ta!imarjan Workshop. Within the irrigation system the responsible organisation isthe Oblselvodhoz. All three organisations are ultimately responsible to the Ministry ofAgriculture and Water Resources.

The Dostluk Construction Department of Hydromechanisation is based in the small settlementof Dostluk near the KMC intake in Turkmenistan. It employs some 455 persons to operate andmaintain the existing fleet of 1 5 dredgers and support equipment.


Karshi Pumping Cascane Rehabilitation Phase I Project 36Environmental AssessnmenrDraft Final Report

The Obiselvodhoz manages irrigation and drainage infrastructure within Kashkadarya Oblast.For the Karshi command area the organization is effectively organized into three operation andmaintenance directorates: one for the KMC and 'inter-raion' canals, one for the inter-farmcanals and one for the collector drainage network. A total of 1 503 staff are understood to beemployed in tnese directorates.

Overall control and responsibility for operation and maintenance of the pumping stations lieswith the Head of the Operating Department, KMC and Pumping Stations based in Talimarjan.He is assisted by the chiefs of each pumping station, the workshop, Talimarjan Reservoir andalso power supply. The number of staff at the various pumping stations is typically between33 and 40, including specialists and guards. A further 75 are employed at TalimarjanWorkshop. Overall ODKMC are understood to employ 996 staff.

For each pumping station records are kept with details of pump and motor running hours,commission;ng dates, number of overhauls and the main faults and defects. These records alsoinclude details of other equipment in the pump station, the trash screens, the forebay,discharge pipelines, the power supplies and a record of power failures etc.

The proposed SCADA system will enable the Dispatcher, at any time, to review the pumpoperational status at each pump station together with water levels throughout the system,including upstream and downstream of each pump station, at the river and in TalimarjanReservoir. Individual pump station operators will also be aware of pump operations at adjacentpump stations and upstream and downstream water levels.

The improvement to the pump suction intake design, pump impeller and discharge diffuserdesign and materials of construction under the refurbishment process should ensure that infuture intervals between major overhauls in excess of five years may be expected. Improvedcontrol of pumps should eliminate operation at low intake water levels and assist in extendingthe interval between major overhauls.

A schedule of spare parts required to maintain the existing pumpsets and keep the cascadeoperational until such a time that the refurbishment Project has become effective has beenprepared and costed. Due to uncertainties regarding the schedule and scope of refurbishment,it is proposed to purchase items on an annual basis. The priority spares requirement will thenbe reviewed regularly taking into account stock levels, the status of the refurbishment Projectand the condition of the existing equipment. This process is necessary to ensure that funds arenot spent unnecessarily on the existing equipment that could be better used for therefurbishment work. Spares for PS 7 are also included in the proposed package.

The installation of a computer-based maintenance management systems (MMS) under theProject would allow all maintenance records, maintenance procedures, drawings and relatedfunctions such as the procurement of spare parts to be stored on a set of databases. Thesystem could be installed in all relevant locations including the operational headquarters andTalimarjan Workshop and interconnected via the control system network of the computersystems for the SCADA. However, with the present chronic shortage of spare parts thepurchase of a maintenance management system is considered to be a low priority item to beconsidered at a latter stage in the Project once the pump refurbishment is well in hand.


Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabilitation Phase I Project 37Environmental AssessmentDraft Final Repor

3.3 Institu:ional project components

With respect to the institutional component a study was carried out by WB and MAWR(Institutional Component Study, 2000). As a result of this study a phase I and phase 11 havebeen identified comprising:

- consolidation, with the main purpose to bring a halt to further deterioration of theirrigation management capabilities at farm level and to develop a financially viable andtechnically capable set of association type organisations to fill the organizationalvacuum caused by restructuring of the FSK's;

- corporatization, with the purpose of introduction of cost centre based commercialmanagement practices in the operation and maintenance of the irrigation and drainagesystems.

Phase I of the project, the consolidation phase, will comprise the following investigations:

- detailed feasibility study for irrigation management reforms;- farn surveys and the development of a computarized data base;- options for the use of water saving methods and techniques;- development of a legal and regulatory framework for irrigation management reforms.

Issues which will be investigated are amongst others establishment of a limited number ofwater user associations IWUA's), establishment of water user groups (WUG's), establishmentof canal coordinating committees (CCC's) and the introduction of volume based water charges.

Prediction of the eventual shape of these reforms as well as the pace with which these reformswill be implemented are uncertain. However, mid 2001 the following strategy was proposed bythe project.

A two phases approach comprising a combination of investments, institutional adaptations andpolicy reforms is proposed. The strategy is based on the belief that the sector's decline iscaused by water losses, insufficient drainage and insufficient maintenance which needimmediate measures. Once these problems and their disastrous effects have been broughtunder control, the next task is to rehabilitate and modernize the infrastructure and to adapt it tothe changing conditions of the sector.

Phase l: consolidation cum emergency phase- public investment program in the main and inter-farm network (about US$ 2 billion);- support to necessary institutional arrangements, both on FSK level (water User

Associations) and at the interfarm level (e.g. Public Utilities or Joint Stock Companies,Drainage Boards);

- enable farmers to raise income and credits to pay for on farm investments which arethe responsibility of the farmers (about US$ 1 billion);

Phase Il: rehabilitation cum -modernization program- large scale investments for modernization (order of magnitude US$ 20 billion; 8 billion

for public investments and 1 2 billion for user investments);- a strongly improved incentive structure for farmers;- a much more comprehensive policy and institutional changes.


Karshi Pumping Cascacdr RenrmD,b Lta-on Pnase I Project 38Environmental Ass-ssrrenrDraft Final Repc-.

The time horizon for all these improvements and investments is at least 25 years.

3.4 Irrigation and drainage infrastructure

- Thu formation of Water Users Groups (WUGs) to take charge of O&M in areas of 200-500 ha and Water Users Associatons (WUAs) to take charge of O&M in hydrologicalunits of about 2000 ha; these organizations would basically replace the watermanagement and maintenance functions of the former state farms;

- The rehabilitation and improvement of the irrigation and drainage channels within theareas of the WUAs with an emphasis on reducing water losses and watermeasurement to individual farms;

- The rehabilitation of the major irrigation and drainage canal network, also with anemphasis on water control and water management, including water table and salinitycontrol and measurement of water deliveries to WUAs;

3.5 Phase I Rehabilitation components

To implement all of the above will be a tremendous undertaking, costing in total several billionsof US dollars and probably taking 25 or more years to implement. The current Phase I projectmainly aims at:

- a rehabilitation of the KPC but limited to the extent funding is available;- the establishment of WAU's (along with some infrastructure improvements) in pilot areas and- further studies in preparation of the institutional reform efforts.

The main project components are:

A. Rehabilitation of Pumping Stations

- Installation of two new pump units in pumping station no.1 (PS11); installation of about12 new motors and refurbishment of about 20 pumps in PS1-6; general rehabilitationof PS7;

- Related electrical works and the installation of a Supervisory Control and DataAcquisition (SCADA) system;

- Strengthening and interior and exterior coating of the discharge pipelines;- Talimarjan worshop refurbishment and procurment of spareparts; and- Rehabilitation of the buildings.

B. Sediment Management and Hydraulic Control

- Improvement of the river intake and the construction of a gated regulator (overflowtype) about 1.0 km downstream of the intake;


Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabiltation Phase I Project 39Environmental Assessmen:Draft Final Repc .

- Dredging on two desilting basins: one to be located just upstream of the gatedrec. lato- ar-1 one to be located just downstream of the regulator; erosion protection ofthe lead channel's left bank from the river, probably by sheet piling; the remainingsection of the lead channel upto PS1 will be restored to its original profile;

- Repair of the damaged canal lining between PS1 and PS2;- Repair of the concrete panels originally installed for the protection of the embankment

of Talimarjan dam; rehabilitation of the dam's drainage system; installation ofpiezomete-s etc.

C. Irrigation and Drainage Systems Improvements in the KMC Command Area

- De.'elopmen-, of about iourteen Water Users Associations (WUA's), two in each rayon;eacn 'A UA on average covering an irrigated area of 2,000 ha or aboout 28,000 ha intotal;

- Selective rehabilitation of key l&D infrastructure within the jurisdiction of these WUA,sup :o a cost of about $ 200/ha.; this may concern irrigation / drainage canals, pumpingstations and canalettes.

D. Project Management; Monitoring and Evaluation and Institutional Strengthening

- Provision of engineering consultants to assist the Project Implementation Unit (PIU)with detailed design, construction supervision, and procurement for the KPC; theestablishment of WUA's and the implementation of the command area works; financialmanagement; and monitoring and evaluation (M&E).

Republic of Uzbekistan 12/07/01Ministry ot Agricuiture and Water ResourcesProject Implementation Unit

Karsh, Pumping Cascade Renabiklation Pnase I Project 40Environmental Assessmer;Draft Final Rep,-

4 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT

4.1 General features

4.1.1 Project location

The Karshi rro[ect area is the western part of the Kashkadarya oblast, which lies betweenlatitudes 38°00' and 39034' North and longitudes 64023' and 67041' East. The area issituated on a plateau on the right bank of the Amu Darya River, from which it is separated by astrip of land, 45-75 km wide, on the territory of Turkmenistan. The project area slopes gentlyto the west, from an elevation of about 400 m above mean sea level to 350 m (amsl).

4.1.2 Climate

The area has a distinct continental climate, with hot and dry summers, with a maximum of wellover 400C, and cold and dry winters, with an absolute minimum below -25°C. Rain fallsmainly in winter and spring; annual rainfall amounts to about 240 mm. Thanks to irrigation,even in the hottest period of the year (June-August) the average humidity is around 50%. Butin the non-irrigated Karshi Steppe this figure is as low as 20-30%. Evapotranspiration is high:about 1,700 mm per annum on average, and a year has 2,850 hours of sunshine. The tablebelow gives some average monthly climatic data for the meteorological station at Karshi.

Table 4.1 Climatic data at the meteorological station of Karshi (averages)Month Max. M in. Rainfall Humidi Wind Sunshin Sol ET

Temp.ia temp. (mm/mont ty (%) velocit e Radio (mm/montC) (0C) h) y (hour/da (W/m h)

(m/sec y) 2/day)

01 4.1 !_-5.8 38.3 83 1.21 6.3 8.5 2402 7.5 -3.4 33.9 81 1.38 6.6 11.2 4203 14.3 2.5 50.8 76 1.56 6.6 14.5 8404 22.1 8.4 37.4 68 1.73 6.6 17.4 16205 28.4 12.5 16.7 56 1.73 7.8 20.8 23106 33.6 15.6 1.1 47 1.64 9.9 24.4 27307 35.5 17.2 0.1 50 1.56 10.5 24.8 26708 33.4 14.9 0 54 1.38 10.5 23.1 23409 28.8 9.5 0.1 56 1.30 9.3 18.7 17110 22.0 [4.9 8.1 63 1.30 7.3 1 2.9 1111 1 12.9 I 0.0 20.3 76 1.12 6.6 9.4 6312 6.1 -3.6 29.4 85 1.21 5.8 7.5 30Annual Totals: 236 mm 2855 1692 mm

l _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ |__ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ h r s l _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __r_Karshi Meteo Station Longitude: 65°43' Elevation: 378 m a.s.l.

Latitude: 38°48'


Karshi Pumping Cascade Reh-tsr tatlor Prase 1 Project 41Environmental AssessmentDraft Final Rep

4.1.3 Irrigation

Under sucF extreme climatic conditions, agriculture would be unthinkable without irrigation.The area now uncer -ogation amounts to some 500,000 ha, of which a minor part has beenirrigated bn, ,r , -c .,rycy since centuries. This part is located in the former delta of theKashkadar',- R v.er which, long ago, discharged into the Amu Darya River. However, because ofmassive wa:er abs.raction, the Kashkadarya is heavily silted up and its bed disappearsdownstream of the village of Mubarek. Apart from this river, a number of major collector drainsintersect the area.

The large-scale deve oprnent of the Karshi area became possible by the implementation of theKarshi irrig.otion projeu:;, v.hich began in 1964 and until now is only partly finished. Today, theKashkadar\,:. River, ruMliing from East to West through the project area, contributes about 10%of the wat,- used. Toe other 90% is provided form the Amu Darya River by pumping, throughthe Karshi rumping Cascade (KPC).

Table 4.2 Existing irrigated areas and KMC command area [ha]

District Gross area Existing irrigated KMC command area_ _ _ _ _ _ __ area

Bahoristoc- 193,027 27,790 27,790Guzor 267,531 35,390 9,352Karshi 89,403 44,586 44,586Koson 1187,241 72,670 72,670Kasbi 174,198 52,139 52,139Muborak 307,013 34,892 34,892Nishon I 206,017 52,208 51,833U Yusupov [ 119,511 34,594 34,594Dekhkobore 400,773 6,410 2,900TOTAL 1,944,714 = 360,679 330,756Source: MAWR of UR, 2001

The KPC consists of the Head Section of the Karshi Main Canal (KMC) with an averagecapacity of 175 m3'sec, along which a series of seven major pumping stations lift the water tothe desired levels: by 86m for the Mirishkor Canal (the west branch of the main canal), by 132m in total for the continuation (or Working Section) of the KMC and by an additional 27 m forthe Talimarjan storage reservoir. Several offtakes along the two main canals provide water toeither directly to farn-s, the former sovkhozes and kolkhozes, or to inter-farm canals conductingthe water to two more farms. In many cases, these farms have since independence beendivided into a number of smaller units, but the water intakes are still the same.

Some 98% of the pumped water goes to irrigation; the rest is for industrial use, for domesticwater supply and for watering of gardens etc.

Republic of Uzbekistan 12,;07/01Ministry of Agriculture and \tWater ResourcesProject Implementation Unit

Karshi Pumpirg _ascase Rerz,.t)1.:atior Phase I Project 42Environmenta AsaFssmeniDraft Fimai Re. --

4.1.4 Drainaage

During the Jesign of the Karshi Irrigation Project it was anticipated that the groundwater tablewould rise due to the introduction of large-scale irrigation. Therefore, a drainage system wasdesigned znd imprplern-r,ed. Some farms were provided with vertical drainage wells, other farmswith a hor. :ntal drainage system consisting of closed and open drains and collectors; in someareas the Ti.: syste; is were combined. The on-farm collectors and drains discharge into theinter-farm -.ollectors from where main collectors evacuate the drainage water to the Amu Daryaor to natural depressions where it is stored (temporarily).

However, parts of th_ ci-farm drainage networks are more than 20 years old and, on the otherhand, maintenance has been deferred for nearly a decade. Therefore, many of the drains (pipedrains as v_'ell as vertical drains) function poorly. Also the collectors are in a poor state ofmaintenance due tc, lack of funds. Their capacity has decreased considerably. As aconsequen_ e the groundwater table rises in many places to dangerously high levels which hasa considerab'ne negat.e impact on the crop yields. Water logging and superficial salt depositscan be observed in niany places.

4.2 Water resources

The water conditions are discussed according the type of water body. The main water quantityand water quality pcrameters concern water flow or discharge, water salinity and salt load.Other wat - quality parameters (except for selenium) have appeared of less importance asconcluded chiring the Drainage EA phase 11 studies (Iwaco, 1 999).

4.2.1 AmLi Darya (river)

The Amu Darya is one of the two major rivers that feed the Aral Sea. It rises in the Hindu Kushand its hydrological characteristics are typical of those rivers that experience summer floodsdue to snowmelt. In the lower reaches, through Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, the river has asand bed and meanders across a relatively wide plain. Its width varies between 1 km and 3 kmand low flo-v channels are evident in the winter period.

Under global climate change the Amu Darya catchments is predicted to get warmer and wetterin the long term. This means that there may be marginal increases in Amu Darya flows overthe next 30 years. These changes are not expected to be dramatic and there are no seriousimplications in terms of rehabilitation of the cascade.

Many of the problems associated with operating the cascade are caused by less thanfavourable intake arrangements, particularly high sediment entry. The intake is without control,located immediately downstream of a rock bluff on the outside on bend in the Amu Darya.Reduced river flow, arising from abstractions to Karshi Cascade, the Karakum Canal and otherirrigation systems has resulted in an increase in sediment concentration within the river. Theriver has responded by steepening its slope: at the Karshi intake it is estimated that the bedlevel has risen by 0.5 m in the past 35 years and this trend is likely to continue into the future.The increase in bed levels and the associated increase in water levels is very slow but it is ofsome advantage to the Karshi intake.



The earliest surveys of the river available are dated 1968 and these show that the river wasagainst the hard point of Pulizindan at that time. Other surveys dated 1985 also show this tobe true. It is likely, therefore, that the river has been constrained by this geological formationfor at least 40 years and this is likely to continue for at least the economic life of therefurbished Karshi Pumping Cascade.

The rock bluff is impeding the progression of meanders downstream, resulting in erosion on theleft bank in the vicinity of the settlement of Kyzyl Ayak. The erosion may be exacerbated byoperations at the intake and the Uzbek authorities are anxious that the erosion is stabilized byriver training. Various alternatives and have been considered and the favored design is for arevetment between 4 km and 5 km. Similar localized protection to the left bank of the presentKMC intake channel is also suggested where it is threatened by the Amu Darya.

A detailed analysis of available sediment records for the Amu Darya and the KMC has beencarried out. The river carries an average sediment concentration of around 2 000to 4 000 ppm, with peak concentrations occurring in the summer months (of around10 000 ppm in June) when demand for water in the KMC is greatest. Sediment concentrationsare about 15 per cent higher in the KMC intake than in the Amu Darya at Kerki. The study todate confirms that a step change in sediment concentrations and quantities occurs in or around1985. Data for sediment loads entering the KMC in the years 1999 and 2000 is in goodcorrelation with the Kerki data supporting the argument that concentrations have indeed risenin the last 15 years.

Some typical trends in flows, salinity and sediment transport are incorporated in the followingfigures.

AWMng. Flaws P nI t S" 0 ndentao...trS...

7000 _ __ _ - _ _ _- - - _ _ _ _ _ - - _ _ _

6000 -.-SedimentConcentrationsatKerkiu -- Flows at Kerki

[5000

a,~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Ya

3 000

2000 __ __

1000 __ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

1905 1960 1960 1970 1975 1990 1995 1990 1996 2000

Figure 3 Average annual flows and average sediment concentrations at Kerki



12000 1.2

10000 I

E 8000 0.8c

6000 0.6

Q 4000 -0.4

2000 0.2

0 _ I . I I 01 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

Month

I-Month + Q A |

Figure 4 Monthly fluctuations in Amu Darya flow and salinity

The table below presents some typical water quality data of the Amu Darya upstream theKarshi Main Canal.

Table 4.3 Mean concentrations in the Amu Darya River -Termez siteParameter Mean annual concentration (mg/I)

1991 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000

Dissolved oxygen 10.5 (0,5) 10,3 10,0 11,3BOD 1.8 0,7 0,7 0,7 0,8COD 13.2 4,2 3,9 4,4 5,3Ammonium nitrogen 0.004 0,02 0,05 0,022 0,035Nitrates 1.26 0,61 0,62 0,48 0,63Nitrites 0.023 0,016 0,015 0,019 0,018Fe (III) 0.04 0,02 0,01 0,01 0,02Copper (II) (4ig/l) 2.7 0,7 1,1 0,5 0,3Zinc (II) (4g/l) 6.4 9,3 4,6 3,5 3,8Phenol 0.009 0,001 0,001 0,001 0,001 _ _

Oil products 0.03 0,06 0,06 0,03 0,03Cr (II) (l.g/l) 1.9 0,4 0,4 0,8 0,2SAS 0.01 0,01 0,01 0,01 0,01Suspended solids 753 188 404 751 235DDT (pg/l) 0 0 0 0 0Alfa-HCH (p.g/l) 0.016 0 0 0 0,018Gamma-HCH (4g/l) 0.014 0 0 0 0Fluorine 0.40 0,18 0,23 0,22 0,13Arsenic (Rg/l) 1.7 1,3 0,8 0,5 0,9|Salinity 546 564 598 1724 801

Republic of Uzbekistan 12/07/01Ministry of Agriculture and Water ResourcesProiect lmglementation Unit

Karshi Pumping Iascade Fer....;,, Phase I PrDlect 45Environmental e sessmn,emDraft Final Rep:-:

Water salin!ty in the Amu Darya tends to increase. This also counts for the sediment loads. Thepollution loads rema!' stable in general. The presence of phenol in the order of micrograms cannot be ex: 'aned. E-sides collector drainage water, the main pollution sources upstreamcomprise th.-. urban ia o incustrial discharges of Termez.

4.2.2 Karshi Main Canal (I<MC)

Table 4.4 'ists the sections of the Karshi pump cascade from the Amu Darya river to theTalimarjan reservoir, `-escribes their functions and the vanous activities alongside the KMC.

Figure 5 presents the geographical information on satellite imageries: location of intake,approach c' annel, KMC pumping cascade, and Talimarjan reservoir, as well as location ofseveral problem areas.

Republic of Uzbekistan 1 2'07/01Ministry of Agriculture and Water ResourcesProject Implementation Unit


Kerahi Pumping Cascade RehabilitatlonEnvironmental Assessment

Image -1ia: Karshi Main Canal -Environmental Issues

1~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~1< Mt~~~~4 'p 'C '*-- -r -

. 1'

!t; iz ! r-o gr !j 1, ; ' t r P P vv .1; sil t X~~~~~~~~~~~~Lgr c

Figure 58a RS Image (Landsat TM, 2000) of Karshi Main Canal (from intake to pump station 1)

Republic of Uzbekistan 1 2/07/01Ministry of Agriculturo and Water ResourcosProject Implementation Unit

Karshi Pumpirg Cascade Rehabilitation Phase I Project 47Environrmenta[ AssessmentDraft Final Report

Karshl Pumplng Cascade RehabllltstionEnvironmental Aesesamenl

lmagI -11b: Katshi MaIin Canai Environmeontal Issues

r '4 -. -

/ I.'~'

h_. 4, ^ ' A t

cAPx -w

Figure 51b RS Image (Landlsat TMV, 2000) of Karshi Main Canal (froml pump station 11 to pimlp station 3)



Karehl Pumping Ceacade RehabilitationEneironmental Assessment

Image $-10: Kaishi Main Canal - Environmental Issues

W e . ta r e s; . S S~~J. J

-~ ~~~ -, ,",t - , - '- - . --- __ -., ---

/1 , j .... ,4,___.

1h

i'RL t* TM, 20 | .Main to tatioReu lt f zeksa ' '. . .701

Project~ Im lm ntto Unitje !8, v tj lgtlnat

/~~~~~~~~~~ ' ' 3 S pnpag 1,

,- iuLle 5e RS Image fLandsat TMIV, 20001 olF Karslht Main Canal (from pump station 3 to w'uiml,r sitation 5}

Repukiltb of Uzbekistan 12/07/01Ministry of Agriculture and Water PesourcesProject Implementation Unit


Kershi Pumping Ca%cada RehabilltatlonEnvlronmenlol Assaosment

Image i -id: Karshi Main Canal - Environmenltal Issues

;: } ^ ;- e~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~eserVoir .i~~~~~~~ ''' f.. ' -a /

I I~~~~~~~~~~~~~ri

I' . .' g nd:

' ' 1' ' I l;S ' ' ',u' p'I ' -

Figure 5d RS Image (Landsat TM, 2000) of Karshi Main Canal (ffrom pump sitation 5 to pump station 7)

.Republic of Uzbekistan 1 2/07/01Ministry of Agriculture and Water ResourcesProject Implementation Unit


Table 4.4 KMC sections and activities

Section Description Function Activitiesin River and KMC Left bank of KMC Right bank of KMC

Amu Darya river water resource dredging (2*hm3/yr)PK -12 to 0 KMC intake (channel) dredging (4*hm3 /yr) sludge disposal to river

headworks _-PK 0 to 34 approach settling basin. dredging (8*hm3 /yr) sludge disposal to river via

channel embankmentPK 34 to 70 dredging (1 *hm 3/yr) irrig. off-take PK 40 (0.5m3 /s) sludge disposal basin (150

unfinished bridge PK 63 irrig. off-take PK 52 (4.0mI/s) ha)PK 70 to 204 dredging 1 *hm3 /yr) sludge disposal basins disposal basins

railway bridge PK 104 (50 + 180 + 50 ha) (40 + 60 + 20 ha)road bridge PK 163 irrig. off-take PK 195

(3.Om 3 /s)

PK 204 to pumping main irrigation road bridge PK 308 irrig. off-take PK 214 (0.2m3 /s) irrig. off-take PK 280411 cascade conveyor dismantled aqueduct PK irrig. off-take PK 285 (0.4m3 /s) (3.Om3 /s)

PS1 370 irrig. off-take PK 296 (0.4m3 /s)irrig. off-take PK 364 (1.0m3/s)

PK 411 to PS2 irrig. off-take PK 415424 (3.Om3/s)PK 424 - to PS3 road bridge PK 590 irrig. off-take PK 580626 (0.2m3/s)PK 626 to PS4 Mirishkor canal PK 657 (40 irrig. off-take PK 636672 m3 /s) (0.03m3/s)

irrig. off-take PK 678(m 3

/s ?)PK 672 to PS5 road bridge PK 730 irrig. off-take PK 728758 (0.8m3/s)


Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabilitation Phase I Project 5 1Environmental AssessmentDraft Final Report

PK 758 to PS6 border with Turkmenistan by-pass of Talimarjan reservoir irrig. off-take PK 760765 l PK 760 PK 760 (0.4m3/s)PK 765 to approach canal to780 PS7 Talimarjan

l______________ I ___reservoir

Talimarjan reservoir leaching water potable water supply, fisheries, migrating birds.._ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _, _ _ _ _ _ I su p p ly



Water flow

As it can be seen in the table 4.5, irrigation schemes are heavily drawing on the waterresources of the Amu Darya river. The Karshi Main Canal's annual diversion amounts to 4,500million m3 .

Table 4.5 Water balances of Amu Darya and Karshi Main Canal in the case of a dry yearAverage annual flow Share [%I

Amu DaryaRiver u/s Karakum 34,000 100Karakum diversion 10,000 29Karshi diversion 4,500 1 3Karshi diversion 4,500 100Irrigation divers. 300 7Turkmenistan 1,300 29Merishkor canal 100 2Potable water Kashkadarya 100 2Evaporation Talimarjan 2,700 60reserv.KMC final conveyor __.___._..__

Sediment concentration

The very high sediment concentration of Amu Darya river has a significant effect on the KMC.The diversion of water from the river requires dredging and disposal of sediments from theKMC. During the 25 years of operation 230 million m3 have been removed from the approachchannel to Pump Station 1 of which 79% - the sandy sediments dredged in the first reach ofthe channel - have been returned to the river, while 21 % have been deposited on 550 ha ofdisposal basins which are located on marginal land alongside the channel.

Table 4.6 Balanced of dredged sediments during 25 years of operation of the KMC

Section Total dredged Disposal to river Disposal basins

PK -12 to 59 97 % 3%0 150 83 % 17 %0 to 3434to 70 10 100 %70 to 104 4 100 %104 to 163 4 100 %163 to 202 3 100 %Total KMC 230 79 % 21 %

Sediment disposal on disposal basins located on marginal land is not considered a significantimpact. But overflow of some basins due to insufficient capacity and vertical drains haveresulted in inundation of grazing areas, railway and drainage collectors, a condition that will beeliminated by the new dredging scheme under the Rehabilitation Project.



Sludge return to river has increased sediment load and elevated longitudinal profile. It issuspected by Turkmen administration that this effect has caused the significant impact oferosion of left and right river banks. No research has yet been undertaken to verify thisassumption. But it must be recognized that sediment load of the Amu Darya river has beenincreasing since years and that also the Karakum scheme has contributed to this development.

Nevertheless, technical measures to protect the left bank from further erosion are provided forunder the Rehabilitation Project. Revision of the dredging scheme is expected to reduce toreduce sediment quantities and dredging requirements by 40 %.

Water quality

The following text box present the main features of the Karshi Main Canal's water quality.

Box 4.1 Water quality. Report by K. Gromiko, Ph.D. BiologyThere are no industrial wastes in KMC. CDW flow in the canal (water pumping at sectionbetween PS-1 and PS-2) doesn't exceed 0.001 km3, which is about 1.9% of intake volumeunder mineralization 3.5 g/l, salt load is 0.12% of total quantity entering into canal whichpractically doesn't effect on water quality. Pumping units of the lifting stations are electricaldriven; water passes the canal route by 14-15 hours. This period of time is insufficient forchemical and microbilogical transformation in water quality. All these are stipulated by the factthat qualitative content of canal water does not undergo essential change and practically it isidentical to the content of Amu-Darya river at KMC intake section. In Talimarjan reservoir as aresult of suspended material sedimentation there is desilting of water, at the same timechemical content of water is not changed practically.

Quantity of drainage water of the reservoir is 0.01 hm3, water mineralization reaches 2.6 g9I.Drainage water via the Pump Cascade enters into the reservoir. Together with the water about25,000 ton of salt is discharged into the reservoir that is about 2% of total salt load, andtherefore it doesn't effect essentially on water quality. Water quality of Talimarjan reservoirmeets the requirements of communal and potable water.

Total quantity of microorganisms in KMC water amount to 1.3-2 min cl/l, 0.4-1.1 min.cl/l inreservoir water, including bacteria of saprophyte group 0.9-2 and 0.01-0.04 thous. cl/I andbacteria of intestinal bacillus group 14-32 and 0.1-2.0 cl/l, respectively. Relatively highmicrobe pollution of KMC is caused by increased content of suspended mineral materials,which are carriers of allochtonous soil micro-flora. In respect of micro-biological indexes KMCwater is identical to Amu-Darya water.

Gamma radiation background in KMC and Talimarjan reservoir area is 10-12 mcR/h, gammaradiation activity of the ground surface and bed deposits is 10-15 mcR/h. It shows that thisarea doesn't have any radioactive pollution.

4.2.3 Talimarian reservoir

As mentioned in the Table 4.4, one of the main functions of the Talimarjan reservoir is tosupply the population of the area with potable water. Daily water abstraction from the reservoiramounts to 200,000 m3, which covers 44% of the consumption requirements of theinterconnected communal, departmental and rural water supply systems.



Generally, the Talimarjan reservoir water meets potable quality. The origin of the high phenolcontent (0.02 mg/I) remains unknown (it may be pedogene), and together with turbidity (100to 1000 mg/i) continuously exceed standard limits for potable water supply. Other indicators oftemporary concern are total hardness (4 to 10), BOD and COD (2.4 to 3.2 and 9.5 to 16.8,respectively). A water treatment plant will start operation near the outlet of the Talimarjanreservoir.

In dry years the water level of the Talimarjan reservoir falls below maximum draw down level(dead storage level) during August and September. Algae blooming have been reported withoutindication of extent and intensity. In view of the fact that nitrite and phosphorus contents arevery low, the hazard of degradation of water quality with negative consequences for potablewater supply and fish fauna is considered small. Therefore, no conflict with the prime technicalobjectives of reservoir operation for irrigation water supply is evident, but environmentalvigilance should be maintained by monitoring water quality during the critical months of Augustand September.

Talimarjan is part of the two Water Protection Zones defined by decision of Nishan rayonKhokim and approved by the Cabinet of Ministers on April 7, 1992 (No. 174). More detailsabout these ecological areas are given in section 2.4.2 on legal aspects, and in section 4.4.2on ecological aspects.

4.2.4 Main irrigation and drainage system

Irrigation

The main irrigation system consists of two main canals: the Karshi Main Canal (KMC) WorkingSection and the Mirishkor Canal. The KMC Working Section has a length of 1 22 km and beginstwo km downstream of the confluence of the Talimarjan reservoir outlet canal and the bypasscanal. The Mirishkor cancal (199 km) branches off the KMC Head Section between pumpingstation nos. 4 and 5.

There are in total 1 25 offtakes on the KMC: 3 to inter-rayon canals, 8 to inter-farm canals and1 14 directly to farms. For the Mishirikor canal these figures are 3, 3 and 1 26 respectively: 1 32offtakes in total. The interfarm canals are inter-farm canals that are running through more thanone rayon. Apart from these official offtakes, there is a growing number of illegal offtakes.

The conditions of the main canals and inter-rayon canals, with the appurtenant structures, arereported to be satisfactory.

Length of the inter-farm network is 1057.8 km, out of them 456 km (43 %) in earth bed.There is the similar situation for on-farm network: 43 % of on-farm channels are in the earthbed with great water losses and are exposed to overgrowing. Out of the 20 % of inter-farmand 55 % of on-farm channels are in need of cleaning.Total area covered with drainage is 185.7 thous. ha, i.e. 56 % of KMC irrigated area. Totallength of inter-farm and on-farm drainage net is 7522 km. More than 22 % of on-farmdrainage are in need of rehabilitation.

Without rehabilitation works a tendency of irrigated area quality deterioration and degradation

Republic of Uzbekistan 1 2/07/01Ministry of Agrculture and Water ResourcesProject Implementation Unit


of irrigation and drainage infrastructure would be going on, and volume of agricultural output

would be decreased (or to be retained on the existing level).

Collector drainage water (CDW)

The main drainage system consists of two main collectors: the Yuzny collector and theSichankul collector.

No regular monitoring exists for the quality of the collector drainage water. Generalcharacteristics of the collector drainage water are given in the table below.

Table 4.7 Characteristics of main drainsCollector drain Volume (min m3) Salinity (gIL) Outflow to:Kashkadarya river 550-660 Dauhana, Sichankul, re-use_K3-K4 20-25 Lake AtchinskYuzny, Sichankul 1200-1300 5 - 7 Sichankul / Sultandag Lakes

Salinity and discharge

Figure 6 presents the current situation and indicates average annual drainage flows and salinityfor a 50% dry year.

* Uzbekistan SichanAlTurkmenistan . j

30.5 Sichankul / -

0.8 ll ..1 / £. KARSHI

S ult) nda 1 Yuzny ~Amu Darya6

f ~~~0.3 1**

65/KMC

irrigation water Ei4*Y*-* -

O' CDW flow _6

EE lake with evaporation capacity Jkm3/yr)y

03 fltoodplain w lth absorption F342-03 capacity Ikrn3/yr) < 0.647 annual discharge (km3)

0.6 * verage salinity (g/Li

Figure 6 Salinity and discharge of irrigation and drainage water (present situation)


K6rshi Pumping Cascade Rehabilitation Phase I Proiect 56Environmental AssessmentDraft Final Report

4.2.5 Lakes and floodplain

Lakes Atchinsk, Sichankul and Sultandag

All collector drainage water resulting from irrigation in Karshi steppe is discharged to the land-locked Atchinsk and Sichankul Lakes and through the Lake Sultandag to the Amu Darya. Thecharacterics of these depressions are presented in the table below.

Table 4.8 Characteristics of desert sinks (Hydromet, 1997)Capacity (min m3/year)

tAverage Surface area; EvaporationAltitude (maximum) Coastal (km2) at fulliActive and

Depression j(m+msl) depth (mJ line (km) capacity lStorage infiltration TotalAtchinsk 276 9 i45 15 60Lake Sichankul > 20 150-60 68 1140 110 250 _lLake Sultandag 198 9.7 (16.5) | 40-50 180 s 120

According to the latest remote sensing image of 2000, Lake Atchinsk is rapidly increasing.

Yuzny floodplain

Discharge data for the Yuzny collector since the 1 980's suggest that the flow between thetake-off to Sichankul and the Amu Darya reduces by 0.5 km3 per year (SANIIRI). Evaporation inLake Sultandag is believed to be around 0.2 km3. Infiltration and evaporation on the floodplainof the Yuzny collector might explain the additional 0.3 km3.

Satellite images from 1989 indicate dense vegetation in the floodplain over an area of around60 km2. This may explain 0.1 to 0.2 km3/yr of evaporation. It is unclear if this area hasexpanded in recent years; 1 997 satellite images do no cover this area.

4.2.6 Water conditions downstream

As can be seen on Figure 4.3, the drainage water from the Karshi area has a high salt load andraises salinity of the Amu Darya by more than 0.2 g/l. This affects the intake of thedownstream irrigation canals and in Bukhara, Khorezm and Karakalpakstan.

The Aral Sea represents an unique and very special ecosystem> Due to the gradual decrease indischarge and the simultaneous increase in salinity of the Amu Darya water, itshydromorphology, hydrochemistry and hydrobiology has drastically changed. In January 1 990the sea level reached 38.5 m above sea level, which is approximately 14.5 m below the originallevel (Euroconsult, 1995). In that situation the areal extent of the surface water was reducedwith 29,000 m2 to some 36,300 m2 (the water volume became 344 kM3).

During two decades the salinity level has increased from fresh water conditions to some 30 g/Lat the end of the eighties. One of the main consequences concerns the disappearance of fishand fishery activities.



4.3 Land resources

In this section describes the current state of land resources in the project area. After presentingthe general land characteristics (geology, hydrology and soil types), the present environmentalconditions will be analyzed. This analysis, done with the help of RS/GIS technology, focus onthe three main issues:

- Water logging;- Groundwater salinity;- Soil salinisation

4.3.1 Geology, hydrology and soil types

Geology

The project area is represented by thick layers of alluvial and alluvial-proluvial rocks. These areloams, sandy loams, clays and sand-gravel rocks, covered by sand layers with thickness fromseveral centimeters to three meters and more. Quaternary deposits with thickness from 20 to100 m are spread under neogenic sands, limestone and rarely under clays.

Hydrology

Karshi steppe is a elevated plateau with a natural river, the Kashkadarya. It flows from East toWest and gradually vanishes away due to irrigation diversions upstream and infiltration.

The hydrogeology of the territory is characterized by impeded inflow and outflow of groundwaters, resulting stagnant basin. At none-irrigated area their depth reaches from 10 to 20 mand more, and at irrigated lands the water table depth is 2 to 3 m below surface.

Soil types

Two methods have been used for the assessment of soil types:- soil classification of Uzbekistan, accepted by former Soviet Union;- the FAQ method [EC-Tacis project].

The project area belongs to desert and sierozem soil formation zones. Under the influence ofirrigation and due to rise of ground water table, soils are loosing their zonal features and gainingthe hydromorphic features. They are formed under the effect of groundwaters and are groupedas:

- when the groundwater table depth is more than 5 m the soils are called automorphicsoils;

- when water table is between 2 to 5 m they are called semi-hydromorphic soils;- when water table is between 2 to 0 m the soils are called hydromorphic soils.

Soil classification has been made considering the agronomic factors and soil usage, mechanicalstructure and texture of the soil, character and degree of salinisation, and gypsum content.

The main types of zonal soils and its humus content are given in Table 4.9.



Table 4.9 Main Soil Types in Karshi area|Type of soils Parental |Humus Type of soils Parental Material Humus

Material content, % lcontent, /

A. Desert zoneCGrey brown Elluvial -0,3-0,6 Solonchak alluvial, proluvial 1 .0

proluvial and elluvial

Takirish, Alluvial, 0,4-1 ,0 Sand 0,2-0,5akyr proluvial

Desert sandy Eluvial deposits 0,2-0,5 Takirish-oazis alluvial 1.0Meadow, Alluvial 2,0-3,0 Meadow -oazis alluvial 0,8-1 ,4~marsh I

B. Sierozem zones of piedmonts and low mountains

Light ioess deposits 0,8-1,2 1,0-1,5sierozem Meadow proluvial

Sierozem- Alluvial, 1,0-2,0 Meadow -oazis alluvial and3,0-4,0oazis proluvial and proluvial

____________ oessIIII

Source: Soils of Uzbekistan, M. Umarov,etc. 1989.Note: i) Tarkirish, takyr, solonchak, oazis = local terms used for soil classification

ii) Humus content in 20 sm horison, %

Republic of Uzbekistan 112(7101Ministry of Agriculture and Water ResourcesProject Implementation Unit


~jL1t at t W.f--~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~-'-,.-

5Fw>$4 -Ss - ,,,1

&.-O

i -- S @ .f. _&_> ^ - v !~~~~~~~~~~~F ---- ,

Figure f7Ma swoesola nsaly rty for heK co adr

Republic of Uzbekistan 12/07/01Ministry of Agriculture end Water ResourcesProject Implementation Unit


Ji ~~~Jc

i Wetrloggung o ter l for a_MIinist of ean W ate R

Projec ILmes m aetimn rUniir

* Settlments | > _ Roads) \

Rol way;vi s

_ 2 C 2 4 lf

Figure 8 Map of water logging for the KMC command area



The distribution of these soil types is as follows:- Soils of the desert zone are developing under the most dry and contrasted conditions.

Automorphic desert soils cover an area of 933 463 ha, including sandy desert, greybrown, takyrish and takyr soils. These soils are found throughout in Mubarek,Bakhoristan, Usupov, Kasbi, Kasan and Karshi districts.

- Soils of sierozem belt cover foothill plain-lands and foothills. They cover 1011 251 ha(26 %) of potentially irrigable lands and the area is currently under irrigation. Thesesoils are located in the plains and at the foothills of the mountains in Nishan, Karshiand Kasan rayons.

Moderately textured soils are prevailing in the area (63%). Clay type and heavy clay type soilsare 27% of irrigated area. In respect of fertility, the soils of the project area are moderatelyproductive. Average rating of the soil fertility is 46 points. Generally in Karshi area theprevailing soils are semi-hydromorphic soils that require reclamation and complicatedagricultural measures including drainage.

For the first time introduction of the World Reference Base (WRB) for Soil Resources inUzbekistan was started by the ISEAM Project in 2000. The preliminary version of the WRBlegend is prepared for the FAO Soil Map of Uzbekistan in a scale 1: 1 500 000. FAQ Soil mapand FAO major soil groupings of Kashkadarya region are shown in Figure 8a. The mostextensive major soil grouping in Karshkadarya region are: Calcisols, Solonchaks, Cambisol andArenosols. These soils are found throughout the South and South-West part of Karshi area.

X~~~~~~~ 1=. --. -_ - -I^Zg;t;B

Karshi

[=1Xg:z . -. '' -,-o~ rP ' "- /

kI L51_ -w1S i .n* -r

FAO Se _aP.

sI...k. hdd. .b,y,

Reulco Ubekistuaekn .1- _7.:1

Coi.l.eeaoUdnXt

CAd.,!.s !a.p swlo.. s .1 ..155 15..fA

Cad! m 0D1015i '* -

CIShMA. cA10n,1 d..!dW C;

CumhlottaF. f l,d.SiI0.o _d I.Saws.! .,id.f lb*. cbao ._d!. g

CFl fld& S ld.k0b s

R.*.. Wabb. addi& ;.A d.U,../!

b.b**. .515.. .CkM1yc,h)t E\

Sd.tIb.Ssk0!ofl gbDwd..dMflk- .



4.3.2 Use of GIS/RS technology to assess land conditions

Satellite images selected

Assessment of current soil salinisation and water logging including trends in change is done byusing GIS technology and remote sensing methods. The selection of the satellite images isdirectly related to the location of the study area. The Karshi Main Canal (KMC) and the Karshiirrigated area. The images 1 56-33 and 1 56-34 were bought:

- to have a recent map with background details which do not appear on topographicmaps;

- for presentation purposes,;- in order to observe and verify possible trends in environmental conditions.

Table 4.10 Details on old and new RS image details available with Uzgi0 Image type [ID Date Resolution

Recours-F Sept 1987 10 meterLandsat MSS Path/Row 157-32 May 1989 80 meterLandsat MSS Path/Row 1 57-33 May 1 989 80 meterLandsat TM Path/Row 157-31 July 1997 30 meterLandsat TM Path/Row 156-33 May 2000 30 meterLandsat TM Path/Row 156-34 May 2000 30 meter

The maps cover the whole KMC region and the Karshi irrigated area. The maps have a differentscale since the areas to be presented have a different area of interest (size). The maps are usedby the different experts during their field work. The maps are of very good use to determinetheir position and to locate important areas of interest.

Field work

Interpretation and processing of the images were done based on field works and surfaceinformation. Materials of Registry Service and design institutes of MAWR were used as surfaceinformation. For the analysis, regional soil salinity maps covering the periods of 1 998-2000, ata scale of 1:100,000. Evaluation of the salt mobilisation process was carried out at the farmlevel using soil maps of a scale 1:10,000 and 1:25,000.

Analysis

One of the objectives was to use the old images and new images to indicate a possible trend inthe agricultural development and notably in salinisation and waterlogging of lands.

The use of the RS images for trend analyses of salt- and water logging problems in Karshicommand area was not very successful. The reasons were:

- First, the images were taken in May and the field visit took place in the beginning ofAugust. This means a difference in crop density, difference in irrigation, etc. Thisresults in systematic differences between the images and the field results.

- The size of the highly saline- and water logged areas inside the fields were too small tobe indicated on the satellite images.

- The images of 1 989 and 200 were not completely compatible due to resolutiondifferences.



4.3.3 Groundwater level and water logging

According to data of regional monitoring service, the lands with groundwater table up to 2meters represents 2% of the total irrigated land; water table from 2 to 3 meters represents31% and the rest of the territory groundwater table is below 3 meters.

GIS/RS Technologies and data from Melioration Department of MAWR have been used toevaluate the incidence of water logging. Mean annual data, and monthly data for April, Julyand October of 1 998 have been examined. Maps of mineralization and ground water levels(scale 1:25 000) have also been used.

A main source of groundwater recharge in the irrigated area is infiltration from surface watersand underground inflow from the higher elevations. The part of atmospheric precipitation isinsignificant. The infiltration losses from the canals and irrigation fields cause steady rise ofground water table and formation of specific ground water regimes with extended maximum inspring and summer.

The analyses and interpretation of satellite images (Landsat TM 2000) allowed to create a mapof distribution of water logged areas along the main canals with broken lining and unlinedcanals ( Figure 5 and Figure 8).

The groundwater level for the months of April, July and October 1 999 is given on district levelin Table 4.1 1.

By January 2001, the irrigated lands with semi hydromorphic regime of ground waters (2 to 3m) was about 61,1 70 thousand ha, representing 17.7% of the area. Most part of these lands islocated at Bahoristan, Nishan, U Yusupov, and Mubarek districts. The areas with auto-morphicregime of ground waters (> 3m) concern 82% of irrigated territory.

Republic of Uzbekistan 12t07/01Ministry of Agriculture and Water ResourcesProject Implementation Unit


Table 4.11 Groundwater level and mineralisation in the irrigated land of the Karshi region, in 1999District Month Irrigated Area ('000 ha) with level of ground water (m) Mineralisation of groundwater (g/L)

area ('000ha)

< 1 1-1.5 1.5-2 2-3 3-5 > 5 < 1 1-3 3-5 5-10 > 10Bakhoristan

April 26.23 0.06 0.5 21.47 4.17 0.03 0.09 11.56 13.28 1.24 0.06July 26.23 0.04 0.67 23.7 1.76 0.06 0.06 14.13 10.55 1.37 0.12October 26.23 0.33 23.62 2.26 0.02 0.03 8.67 16.18 1.22 0.13

Kasbi___ ___ __April 49.59 0.01 0.44 0.93 19.38 28.68 0.15 __ _ 13.63 27.39 7.84 0.73July 49.59 0.1 0.43 2.32 29.63 17.05 0.06 16.63 27.77 4.96 0.23October 49.59 0.1 1.02 22.92 25.32 0.23 0.03 18.73 21.4 9.07 0.36

KasanApril 72.17 0.04 0.37 3.07 24.35 26.37 17.97_ _ __ _ __July 72.17 0.08 0.54 2.52 37.4 17.38 14.25 6.03 27.03 38.09 1.02October 72.17 0.44 15.86 39.57 16.3 0.01 4.67 30.77 36.32 0.4

MubarekApril 34.69 0.11 0.62 2.36 25.81 5.79 0.03 1.58 24.47 7.96 0.65July 34.69 0.04 0.86 2.03 23.57 8.19 4.13 19.06 10.16 1.34October 34.69 0.03 0.13 0.62 23 10.87 0.04 0.02 5.54 14.02 14.09 1.02

NishanApril 52.09 0.05 1.15 22.26 19.71 8.92 _ 4.72 37.8 8.91 0.66July 52.09 0.08 0.28 1.63 21.35 19.11 9.64 0.04 6.75 39.44 5.5 0.36October 52.09 0.05 0.16 0.79 19.44 22.14 9.51 0.01 13.05 33.04 5.51 0.48

U.UsupovApril 34.44 0.12 1.12 2.48 17.85 12.87 0.04 4.59 19.18 10.26 0.37July 34.44 0.12 0.75 5.27 23.54 4.76 7.63 15.2 11.21 0.4October 34.44 0.15 1.13 23.07 10.09 0.01 2.39 17.38 14.32 0.34

Karshi



April 46.25 0.04 0.23 1.74 15.36 28.16 0.72 0.06 15.49 29.56 1.14July 46.25 0.01 0.16 1.57 16.76 27.25 0.5 0.29 16.45 27.75 1.35 0.41

Guzar___ October 46.25 0.01 0.09 0.99 10.44 32.75 1.97 0.18 20.92 23.83 1.08 0.24Guzar

April 35.3 0.21 0.66 1.34 5.11 12.4 15.58 0.05 1.81 8.47 22.32 2.65July 35.3 0.24 0.78 1.75 7.88 11.79 12.86 1.8 8.7 11.14 2.66October 35.3 0.09 0.23 0.77 5.07 12.04 17.1 _ 2.6 10.76 19.31 2.63

Source: MAWR, 2001



O

TurI,nenisIan T

Figurfe 9 Water logged area, aDong the K(MC, August 2001

61~ IL

Figure 9a. Water iogged area along the KMC in Karshi District, July 2001

43.4 Groundwater -

A shallow and deep aquifer can be distinguished in the Kashkadarya floodplain and Karshisteppe.



Groundwater flow in the shallow aquifer is mainly towards the west but is also heavilyinfluenced by the irrigation and drainage system. Upstream in the alluvial deposits of thefloodplain groundwater has fresh properties (< 1 gr/l). Therefore groundwater in this area is alsoabstracted for drinking water purposes.

Towards the west in Karshi steppe, groundwater becomes increasingly saline. Groundwatersalinity near Sichankul and Dengizkul lakes is far beyond 5 g/L. The high salinities are especiallyassociated with very saline upper neogene deposits. This also induces a considerable saltmobilization in the irrigation area of Karshi.

Groundwater elevations in Karshi steppe have increased during the last decades due toinfiltration from irrigation. This has probably further induced a groundwater flow in south-westto west direction. Flow in the deep aquifer has not been investigated so far for the irrigationand drainage studies.

The groundwater salinity for the months of April, July and October 1 999 is given on districtlevel in the above Table 4.11.

Where the groundwater level is both high and saline, water will rise by capilarity action andthen evaporate, leaving salts on the surface and in the upper layer of the soil.

4.3.5 Salt mobilisation and soil salinity

The aridity of the climate, relief conditions, hydrogeological conditions, poor drainage anddevelopment history are the natural causes of natural salinisation process. The landscape ofKarshi territory hosts relic and modern hydrogenic salt accumulations. Elluvial landscapes areaffected by relic salinisation, which is linked with ancient sea transgressions and continentalsalt accumulation. Automorphic soils of foothill plains steadily turn into the sources ofsecondary salinisation during the raise of the groundwater table. The landscapes of localdepressions are affected by modern salt accumulation of different origin.

Distribution and intensity

The process of natural and secondary soil salinisation in Karshi area is occurred in the areaswith poor natural drainage, and impeded ground water outflow, and at sites of modern andancient chloride-sulphate and chloride salt mobilisation.

Table 4.12 Distribution and intensity of secondary salinisation of the irrigated land in the Karshiarea, in 2000

District Irrigated area Salinity degree in the layer 0- 100 cm'000 ha None saline Slightly Moderately Highly

Bahoristan 26,27 11,9 10,64 3,01 0,72Guzar 33,98 10,38 16,34 5,45 1,81Kasbi 49,34 23,34 18,54 6,73 0,73Kasan 72,03 23,67 32,21 12,02 4,13Mubarek 34,2 7,06 16,52 6,75 3,87Nishan 52,09 23,32 18,76 8,24 1,77U Yusupov 34,44 18,47 11,48 , 3,91 0,58



Ikarshi 47 71 1 5, 31 21,451 ' 8,18 2,54]pTOTAL 350,051 133,671 145,941 54,291 16,15!

Source: MAWR of Uz.R., 2001

The table above shows that moderately and highly saline soil covers more than 70.4 thousandha (20%) of irrigated lands. The area of slightly saline lands is in average more than 40% fromtotal land resources. Secondary salinisation is more widely distributed at Mubarek (79.4%),Guzar (69.4%), Karshi and Kasan (67.1 %), and Nishan (55.2 %) districts.

The detailed distribution of the areas affected by soil salinity is given in the

Figure 7 which was prepared by using satellite images of Landsat TM, 2000 and the map on

soil salinity given by the Kadaster.

Salt mobilization

Trends of salt mobilization in irrigated areas of Karshi territory over the periods from 1 996 to1999 is given in Table 4.13.

Table 4.13 Trends of salt mobilisation in Karshi irrigation command area for 1996-1999

District Year Irrigated area Input of salt Off take of Salt mobilizationwith irrigation salts with

water CDW

'000 ha '000 ton '000 tons '000 t/year t/year/ha

Bahoristan 1996 26.13 328 936 608.3 23.31997 26.23 334 1078 744.4 28.4

1998 26.23 475 1335 859.4 32.8

L ______ _ 1999 26.27 367 1523 1156.3 44.0

Kasan 1996 72.1 703 1338 635.9 8.81997 72.1 968 1084 116.4 1.61998 72.17 1042 1607 564.8 7.8

1999 72.15 959 1_381 421.6 5.8

Kasbi 1996 44.87 565 1 100 535.2 11.9 l

1997 49.51 529 921 392.3 7.91998 49.59 607 1058 450.9 9.1

1999 49.55 562 1003 441.4 8.9

Mubarek 1996 34.34 406 941 534.6 1 5.61997 34.65 477 791 34.4 _ 9.1

1998 34.69 558 923 364.9 10.51999 34.17 486 1350 864.2 25.3

Nishan 1996 52.2 549 2129 1579.4 30.31997 52.2 518 1413 894.3 17.1

1998 52.09 592 1684 1091.7 21.0

1999 52.09 514 1129 614.5 11.8



U Yusupov 1996 28.83 361 1224 863.0 29.91997 34.45 371 1372 1000.9 29.11998 34.44 518 2279 1761.1 51.11999 34.44 395 2178 1783.3 51.8

Karshi 1996 43.78 446 1047 601.1 13.71997 46.24 421 1155 733.6 15.91998 46.25 609 2115 1507.0 32.61999 46.14 505 2153 1647.7 35.7

1996 302.25 3358 8715 5357.5 133.5TOTAL 1997 315.38 _ 3618 7814 4196.3 109.1

1998 315.46 4401 11001 6599.8 __ 164.91999 314.81 3788 110717 6929.0 183.3

In the Karshi irrigation command area the average specific mobilization of salts is 18.5ton/year/ha. A maximum salt mobilization ranges from 51.8 ton/year/ha (U Yusupov) to 36ton/year/ha (Bahoriston and Karshi).Figure 10 is illustrating the serious soil salinity near the KMC.

-A

Figute I0 Soil v near the KIMIC, July 2001

Republic of Uzbekistan 1 2/07/01Ministry of Agriculture and Water ResourcesProiect Implementation Unit

Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabilitation Phase I Proiect 70Environmental AssessmentDraft Final Report

4.3.6 Land conditions in the downstream irrigated areas

The drainage water from the Karshi area has a high salt load and raises salinity of the AmuDarya by more than 0.2 g/l. This affects the intake of the Amu Bukhara Canal that serves anirrigated area of around 270 thousands ha around Bukhara, as well as intakes for Chardzjou(210 thousands ha) and close to 1 million ha further downstream in Turkmenistan, Khorezm andKarakalpakstan.

Existing data related to land conditions at a oblast level are given in the table below.

Table 4.14 Soil salinity, groundwater level and salinity in the downstream irrigated area,1 995

Region Proportion of observed irrigation area (%) with:Salinized land Depth to Groundwater

groundwater, mineralisation (g/L)l _______________ _________________ (June) (m ) i

Level Moderately to < 1.5 1 .5 to 3 to 5 >5strongly 2.0 _

Bukhara 39.8 2 1 2 33 7Khorezm 23.7 78 16 6 <0.5Karakalpakstan 62.2 14 51 21 7Source: Ul, 1997

4.4 Biological resources

The ecological conditions are mainly determined by agriculture. The agricultural performancehas been described in many reports already and is beyond the scope of the EA project.However, this impact study only has a limited focus on land salinity and water quality as theseare the main parameters that determine environmental effects in Karshi and downstream.

Areas of ecological importance within or directly outside the study area concern:- the lakes which are mainly supplied by collector drainage water;- the ecological zoning requirements along KMC and reservoir Talimarjan.

4.4.1 Conditions of Lake Atchinsk, Lake Sichankul and Lake Sultandag

Monitoring of the collector drainage network performance including water quality issues hashardly been carried out. This also counts for the desert sinks or lakes that are part of thisnetwork, in spite of potential ecological values. Some general data and observations arepresented in Table 4.15 and 4.16.

Table 4.15 Water quality and ecology of desert lakes / sinks (Hydromet, 1997)Depression Salinity Transparenc Vegetation reed/ Flow through or lockedl epression (g/l) y (ml coverage %

|Atchinsk 1 5 0.6-0.8 8 Locked|Lake Sichankul 7-8 1.8 < Locked

|Lake Sultandag 70 .12 Flow through


Karsh, Pumping Cascade Rehabilitation Phase I Project 71Environmental AssessmentDratt Final Report

Table 4.16 General impressions of Lake Sichankul and Lake Atchinsk ecology

Criteria Sichankul AtchinskDevelopment stage 1 First stage of ecological First stage of wetland

succession formation; more mature_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ th a n 1Biodiversity in and around the High (limited reed High; fish include carp,lake ( qualitative field growth, enough to barbel, zander;observations) support high Abundant water fowl

biodiversity); fish include:carp and vobla

Biodiversity (index based on High Moderateno. of species of periphyton) (98.3) (83.7)

Suspended and dissolved Low, transparent water Lake has green color,organic matter transparency is max. 3m

Trophic levels Moderate High(% green blue algae in total (29%) (55%)algae population)

Bottom sediments Little, mainly sandy High, black siltbottom dominates, rich in HOS

Fresh and saline water Fresh: 49% Fresh: 33%indicating algae Saline: 67% Saline: 67%

Threats to development of Increased salinity, Increased salinityecosystem irregular water supply to

lake

Development opportunities Flow-through may Flow- through maywith proposed projects stabilise aquatic stabilise aquatic

conditions conditions

Lake Atchink

Atchinsk depression is a land-locked shallow lake, situated to the south-west of the city ofKarchi and collecting water from drain collectors K-3 and K-1. The lake has an unstable regime.It dries out periodically. The total capacity of the lake is 30 million m3 at the level 276.0 m. Atthe moment of observation water surface area is 8 km2 and the water volume is estimated at 5min m3 .

Water in the lake is characterised by chloride-sodium salinity with mineralization 15 g/l. Thehighest mineralization takes place in the South part of the lake.

Republic of Uzbekistan 12/07/01Ministry oi Agriculture and Water ResourcesProject Implementation Unit


In years of stable water level within the coastal zone reed and "rogoz" are developed. Area ofreed's coverage is accounted for 8 % of total lake's area. Reed situates in the zone ofcollector's inflow into the lake and is underdeveloped. During summer months all the lake bed iscovered by water vegetation. Water in the lake is blue-green coloured with transparency 0.6-0.8 m.

Lake's banks are not steep and formed with grey clays, including fine sand. Vegetation withincoastal zone consist of ephemeridus and individual bushes of tamarisk.

Lake Sichankul

This large depression was started to be filled in 1 993 after completion of construction of jointcanal from the South Collector Drain. There are no specific hydrological observations available.According to the results of remote sensing interpretations, the water surface area of the lakewas around 70 km. ir, May 1 996, which would correspond to a lake valume of about 1.2 km3.The lake has a complex depression shape with depths of more than 20 m. Before filling thelake, solonchak was situated on the depression bed. According to experts estimations, watermineralization range in the lake was around 7-8 g/l. The balance level for minerilization in thisflow-through lake is not known.

Lake Sultandag

The lake emerged in 1 976 as the tail reservoir of the South Karshi Collector Drain. In thebeginning of 1978 it was still a land-locked reservoir with a water surface area of 36 km3. Inthe middle of that year the lake survived a break while excessive water came into lakeDengizkul via other water bodies. In 1981 the canal, connecting Sultandag and Dengizkul lakeswas blocked by a dam in order to divert water from Sultandag to the Amu Darya river. Thisconnection still exists.

Top water vegetation consists of reed and "rogoz" narrow leafed. Concentration of vegetationis highest at the inflow zone of the South Karshi Collector Drain and south-western unsteeplake's bank. Sharp continental climate and relative shallow water characterize high fluctuationsof annual and daily water temperatures determine the aquatic ecology to a large extent. Thedissolved oxygen content has een observed as high.

4.4.2 Zones of ecological importance along the KMC and the Talimarjan reservoir

Since the creation of the new water bodies - KMC, Talimarjan reservoir and two floodedquarries - new habitats have established and bio-diversity has increased considerably. Fishmigrated via the KMC to the reservoir where population has increased and very big fish arebeing caught.


Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabclitation Phase I Project 73Environmental AssessmentDraft Finas Report

The Talimarjan reservoir and its surrounding areas are an important site for water related birds.The area lies on the flyways of some important migrating bird species and is part of the routesbetween Siberia and Africa, the Arabian Peninsula and the Indian Subcontinent. Some 68,000birds belonging to 20 species, 9 of them on the IUCN and national Red Lists, have beencounted during spring 2000. Among the reptiles living around the reservoir are the CentralAsian cobra, Black cobra (only a few have been sighted) and the Grey Giant Lizard (Varan), thelatter reaching very large size. At the northern edge of the reservoir, the Saffron, a snowflower, has established which migrating birds must have introduced.

In order to preserve these areas of ecological importance, national and local authorities decidedto create water protection zones (see section 2.4.2).

The following table presents the list of species found within the water protection zone of theTalimarjan reservoir, including indication of those mentioned in the Red List. Information ontheir preferred habitats is provided in Image 1-2.


Karshi Pumpfng Cascade Rehabilitation Phase I Project 74Environmental AssessmentDraft Final Report

Table 4.17 List of fauna and flora of Talimarjan Reservoir Area

English name Local name Scientific name J StatusBirdsPin-tailed Sandgrouse Rebok Pterocles alchata national Red ListBlack-bell. Sandgrouse Rebok Pterocles orientalisMacqueen's Bustard Drofa- Chlamidotis IUCN + nationalCoot Krasotka undulata J. Red ListWhite tailed Eagle Fulica atraFerruginous Duck Haliaectus albicilla IUCN Red ListCommon Pochard Aythya nyroca IUCN Red ListTeal Guld.Gadwall Aythya felinaMallard Anas creccaSpoonbill Anas streperaLittle Egret Anas national Red ListPygmy Cormorant platyrhynchos national Red ListBustard Platalea leucorodia IUCN Red ListGrey Crane Drofa E. garzettaDemoiselle Crane Schurab PhalacrocoraxGarganey Krasavka pygmaeusDalmatian Pelican Tsirok Otis tardaGreat White Pelican Pelican Grus grus IUCN Red listGrey Goose Pelican Anthropoides virgo national Red List

Khos Anas crispusPelicanus crispusBuch.PelicanusonocrotalusAnser anser

FishLittle Amu Darya Shovel Lopatonos Pseudoscaph. endemic / rare / redNose Usach hermanny listAral Barbel Barbus migratory/(extinct)/re11 species not brachycephalus d listrepresented in the RedListReptilesGrey Giant Lizard Varan Varanus griseus rare / red listCentral Asian Cobra Cobra Naja oxiana rare / red listBlack Cobra Cobra Naja rare / red listFlora"Snow flower" Shaffran non indigenous


Karshi Pumping Cascade RehabilitationEnvironmental Ascessment

Image 1-2 Talimardjan Reservoir - Water Protection Zone and Fauna

]~~~~~~~~~~~~~Wm ftv"M -; -[-

-e~~~~~~~~~~~u

Legend:

Turkmenmstan border Bilrds: Flsh: Reptile: Lanodcapemcre:

Road 14 BustardIDr,ofs Cl . j [ i.-. r.: .. -, ; Central asian cobra C SteppeLopatonos

Rail way A CranealSc h ural pA-el barbeVtsots Witeckcobro Waterbody

Canal J GarganoeylCirok . .l Lizardl Safron esnow flower)

-ank protection belt Pelican

Water protection zone : 3:--

Bo=undery of Several other Red List birdsliving area Scade: 1:75 ODo

2 0 2 10

Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehab(litation Phase I Project 75Environmental AssessmentDraft Final Repor

5 Assessment scenario's for environmental impact assessment

5.1 Why background scenarios?

The proposed project will be implemented in a dynamic agricultural environment. An EA has totake such dynamics into account, because it cannot be ruled out that impacts of a proposedproject are different under future conditions than under present conditions.

The future of the agriculture sector is hard to predict as Uzbekistan is still in the midst of atransition process from a planned economy to a more market-oriented one. While the pace ofthis process is uncertain, a scenario approach is considered the adequate method of analysis.The Preparation Study of the Uzbekistan Drainage Project has elaborated three backgroundscenarios for agricultural development in the period 2000 - 2030:

- Case A, minimal change;- Case B, low development;- Case C, high development.

For the purpose of the present EA the following assumptions were made with regard to thescenarios:

- the difference between scenario A and the present situation is relatively small.Therefore, no significant error is introduced when it is assumed that they are thesame;

- scenario C represents the largest change relative to scenario A;- thus, scenario A and C cover the full range. Having analysed these two scenarios,

scenario B provides little additional information. Therefore scenario B is not presentedin this Report.

The first complicating factor in the evaluation of scenario C is that on one hand the agriculturalreforms and improvements in O&M produce efficiency gains, reduce irrigation flows and reducedrainage flows and salt loads to the Amu Darya. On the other hand, the impact of theinstitutional strengthening component has similar effects. The present EA therefore assumesthat this institutional component is responsible for the benefits that materialise in scenario Crelative to scenario A.

The second complicating factor is that the Government of Uzbekistan has developed anIrrigation and Drainage Sector Plan. This plan includes considerable expansion of the agriculturalarea in Karshi Steppe. Therefore a scenario C + has been incorporated in the analyses.

5.2 Summary of three scenarios

Case A, minimal change scenario

This scenario assumes that no major policy reforms will be carried out and that consequentlyinvestments in the existing irrigation and drainage systems during the next 30 years will beminimal. Mostly, current condition and performance of the irrigation and drainage infrastructure,and the current level of technology and management in irrigation will be sustained.


Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabilitation Prase I Project 76Environmental AssessmentDraft Final Report

It should be noted that the minimal scenario is not a "do nothing" case. If there were not theminimal investments to sustain the current condition and performance of the irrigation system,there would inevitably be further deterioration. The loss of pumping in the KMC is potentiallythe most dramatic and could be the most far reaching.

Case C, high-level development scenario

Under this scenario it is assumed that during the next 30 years policy reforms will beimplemented at a relatively fast pace, with a realistic system of irrigation and drainage watercharges to finance the O&M of the inter-farm irrigation and drainage system. Moreover, drasticinstitutional changes will be implemented for sector management including the establishment ofWater User Associations. Under these conditions it is assumed that relatively high investmentswill be made in the rehabilitation and improvement of the irrigation and drainage infrastructure,including improvements in field irrigation and drainage facilities; increased availability of O&Mbudget; and more efficient irrigation practices, This will result in a higher increase in irrigationefficiencies; a more substantial decrease in drainage water that needs to be disposed of, and afurther reduction in soil and river water salinity.

Case C +, high-level development scenario including agricultural expansion

The irrigation and drainage plan includes a number of interventions for the Karshi commandarea, which are:

- reconstruction and improvement of on-farm irrigated lands;- reconstruction of off-farm irrigation and drainage infrastructure;- improvement of off-farm communication and automatisation;- expansion of irrigated area with 85%.

5.3 Differences between scenarios

Major changes in the agricultural sector that are envisaged in the three scenarios and that arerelevant for the present EA are listed in Table 5.1.

Table 5.1 Three development scenarios for the agricultural sector 12000-2030)Anticipated development (relative to present Scenari Scenari Scenariosituation/base case) o case o case C +

A case CKMC and pumping stationsCapacity KMC operation -35% -35% -35%

Irrigated areaProportion under active irrigation of current command -20% -35% +80%area (*)Water use for irrigation Stable Reduce Optimal

dArea of highly saline lands under active irrigation Stable Reduce Reduced

dCrop yields (*) -20% -0% + 55 %


Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabilitation Phase ID oject 77Errvironmenlal AssessmentDraft Final Report

Shift cropping pattern: minor increase wheat / reduction <5% Negligibl Negligiblecotton eShift cropping pattern: reduce wheat / increase cotton, Negligibl 10-20% 10-20%fodder, fruit eChange in overall water use efficiency -5% +-33% +33%On-farm drain conditions worse Improve Improved

dSoil salinisation Worse Improve Improved

dVertical drainage Reduce Reinstat Reinstated

d edReuse of drainage water for irrigation (tail ends) None Reduce Reduced

dInput of agro-chemicals Limited Improve Improved

d

Collector drains in irrigated areaImprovement/construction of main and inter-farms No Yes Yescollectors

Reservoirs/sinks operationContinued use of Sichankul and Atchinsk as desert sinks Yes Yes YesContinued use of Sultandag as desert sink and link to Yes Reduce YesAmu Darya d

Collector drains outside irrigated areaReduced drainage flows No Reduce Increased

dReduced CDW load No Minor Minor

Amu Darya riverDiversion of irrigation water Stable Reduce Stable

dSalt load from CDW Stable Reduce Stable

Note: table based on MMT, 1999; * based on MMT, 2001; +: national plan incorporated

All scenarios assume a stabilisation or slight increase in the area served by an operatingirrigation and drainage network (MMT, 1999). But at the same time all scenarios assume areduction in the total area under "active" irrigation in a given year. The underlying considerationis that under market conditions farmers will leave fallow in a given year the less productiveareas.

Some scenarios differ 'quite radically from how government sees Uzbekistan agriculturedeveloping over the next 30 years" (MMT, 1998). To reflect government's views, we have alsoanalysed an increase in irrigated.

Republic of Uzbekistan 12107101Ministry of Agriculture and Water ResourcesProject Implementation Unit


Table 5.1 illustrates that the scenarios mainly define developments in the irrigated areas (on-farm). Their environmental impacts will be restricted to the area under irrigation for someparameters (e.g. soil salinity). For other parameters the influence may be noticed on a basinscale (e.g. river salinity).

5.4 How scenarios are used in this EA

5.4.1 Scenarios and project

In principle the background scenarios are used in the present EA to evaluate the following:

- changes in environmental conditions in the "without project" situation (see section 5.5);- sensitivity analysis of projected changes in environmental conditions in the "with

project" situation (see next chapter).

The impact of interventions under different scenarios has been analysed as follows:

Table 5.2 Scenarios and project optionsWithout project Phase I rehabilitation With project

project (full size KPC andcommand arearehabilitation)

Scenario A: Continuation existing Continuation existing KPC at full capacityLow development situation situation; minimum without management

KPC operation improvementsguaranteed

Scenario C: Improved management Improved management Improved managementHigh development with limited resources with limited resources under full capacity

guaranteedScenario C +: Not relevant Not relevant Expansion ofAgricultural agricultural land underexpansion full capacity

Actually the without project and the KPC phase I project situation would assume the same levelof KPC operation. Therefore no distinguish will be made with respect to their impacts for waterquality and land salinity on command level. Whereas scenario C represents a full sizeinstitutional development project, scenario A can be considered very near to phase I pilot areainstitutional project, as the institutional component of phase I covers around 5% of thecommand area.

5.4.2 Environmental parameters

This systematic analysis is not pursued for all environmental parameters and all interventionsaddressed in this document. For certain parameters, projected changes are not significant. Forothers, the data are simply not available to make a sensible extrapolation under differentscenarios. And finally, for some parameters, the impact of a project under case A do not differsignificantly from the impacts under case C. This leaves a limited set of environmentalparameters for which the above method is applied in full. These are listed below:



LAND RESOURCES: - soil salinity- water logging

WATER RESOURCES: - discharge and salt load of CDW- river salinity- lake salinity

BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES - indirect, through parameters above

5.5 Environmental Impacts of scenario C versus scenario A

This section presents a tentative evaluation of the impacts of scenario C versus scenario A atbasin level. The analysis is made for the "without project" situation and is partly based on theanalysis at project level.

5.5.1 Land resources

The Preparation Study concludes that development scenario A will not lead to substantialoverall changes in the condition of the irrigated land resources and that a gradual furtherdeterioration is quite possible. Yet, when the agricultural economy recovers sufficiently, whichis assumed under scenario C, the situation may improve at basin level.

Based on estimates of Ul for the separate regions in the project area, the present EA concludesthat scenario C produces improvements in soil salinity and water logging conditions in around1 0% of the irrigated area on a basin scale:

Table 5.3 Impacts on water logging and soil salinity on a basin scale (scenario C versus A"without project")

Region Area that shows improvement Remarks(ha)

Kashkadarya several ten thousands including Mubarek area

Source: IWACO

This includes lands where the soil salinity category changes from medium-high to low andwhere the water table drops from less than 2 to more than 2 m below ground level.

5:5.2 Water resources

The Preparation Study concludes that irrigation flows at the basin level (Right Bank of AmuDarya) may be 35% less under scenario C than under scenario A. Total diversion from the riverto the right bank would decrease by 3 to 4 km3 per year. This may lead to a reduction in CDWdischarge by around 30%. The Preparation Study argues qualitatively that the reduced CDWflows are likely to have a higher salinity and that therefore the salt loads will not decreaseproportionally. On the other hand the dilution factor in the river is larger, because less waterwas diverted for irrigation in the first place. The two factors will combine to some reduction insalinity in the river and to an increase in river discharge of around 3 to 4 km3 per year.


Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehab litation Phase I Project 80Environmental AssessmentDraft Final Report

The present EA concludes that scenario C reduces the discharge and salt load of CDW to theAmu Darya as follows:

Table 5.4 Impacts on discharge and salt load of CDW to Amu Darya (scenario C versus A,"without project")

Region CDW I salt load remarksdischarge (mlr (mlnm3/yr) ton/yr)

from Kashkadarya -0.2 to -0.4 I -2 to -3 Assuming that no other irrigation(Yuzny collector) i and drainage schemes are

constructed

Source: IWACO

The reductions in discharge and salt load will result in improving conditions downstream in theareas of Bukhara, Khorezm and Karakalpakstan. This concerns both the irrigation and drinkingwater supply situation, while improvements may be in the order of magnitude of 5%.

Scenario C will increase the salinity of lakes that are fed by CDW, possibly by 20 to 30%. Forland-locked lakes (Atchinsk) this means an accelerated salinisation, proportional to the increasein salinity of the inflow. For lakes with flow-through conditions (Sichankul, Sultandag), salinitywill increase and stabilise at a higher level, depending on the salinity of the inflow and of therate of inflow versus outflow.

5.5.3 Biological resources, potential for wetland development

While salinity of CDW and receiving lakes increases in scenario C, the scope for wetlanddevelopment in the drainage system reduces. That is to say, wetlands that have developed'spontaneously' during the last decades because they were fed with excess irrigation (ordrainage) water, may deteriorate when the supply of CDW reduces.

On the other hand, scenario C includes improvements in the management of CDW. This couldwork out positively for some wetlands in the drainage system with running water conditions,where improved CDW management may lead to a more constant supply of CDW and thus to amore stable hydrological regime. These lakes could be managed actively in order to optimizeconditions for wetland development.

Obviously the increased flows in the river may facilitate further wetland development in thedelta area downstream in Karakalpakstan. Several lakes have high potential; one of these isLake Su where actual wetland restoration is under implementation.


Karshl Pumping Cascade Rehabilitation Phase I Project 8 1Envtronmental AssessmentDraft Final Report

6 Assessment of environmental impacts

6.1 Introduction

The rehabilitation project may result in two different impacts at different scales. These concernrehabilitation activities along the KMC and the impacts further downstream with respect to mainland and water issues. Before assessing the environmental impact of the rehabilitation project,the Karshi scheme has been studied to:

- determine the past and actual impacts of the existing installations and activities on theenvironment;

- determine the past and actual impacts of the environment on the KMC installations.

Subsequently, an analysis is carried out of the rehabilitation components and the extent towhich they already mitigate past and current environmental impacts. Finally, potential futureimpacts are determined. In this respect reference will be made to components of Phase I, aswell as to a full scale rehabilitation project.

6.2 Past and present impacts of the Karshi Main Canal

Past and present environmental impacts of the KMC are shown in Table 6.1 and 6.2.

Water logging and salinisation are particularly visible on the left bank of the approach channel(PK 70 to PK 195). The Turkmen district administration Khakimiat of S. Niyazov Etrap claimsthat water logging and salinisation of 4100 ha of the dekhan farms "Enish" has been caused byseepage from the KMC. The situation has been analyzed and the following findings drawn:

- Seepage from the approach channel is evident along certain sections and cannot beprevented;

- The drainage scheme, originally designed to intercept only seepage water from thechannel, and consisting of a 13 km long single tile drain and four pump stations, ispractically out of order;

- Unsuitable irrigation practices and over-irrigation;- Lack of a proper drainage network in the irrigation area;- Saline irrigation areas, as they have been claimed by the Turkmen administration, are

located at 1 to 4 km distance from the approach channel, and extend to the banks ofAmu Darya river.

Considering the above mentioned facts, the position of the Turkmen administration must berejected. Water logging and salinisation in the irrigation area are obviously caused by unsuitabledesign and practices in the irrigation area itself. Only in the area directly bordering the channel,which is located outside the irrigation area, seepage is being caused by the KMC. This situationis also due to the non-functional drainage pumps, a condition that will change under theRehabilitation Project (not Phase I).

Republic of Uzbekistan 1 2107101Ministry of Agriculture and Water ResourcesProject Implementation Unit

Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabilitation Phase I Project 82Environmental AssessmentDraft Final Report _

Table 6.1 Past and present environmental impacts of the KMCSignifican Mitigated by the Addition-al

KMC Activities Physical Effect Environmental Impact t impact rehabilitationi mitigation required_ project _, _, _ I

KMC & Talimarjan reservoirKMC implementation Creation of new water body Migrating route for fish to positive

Talimarjan reservoirTalimarjan reservoir Creation of new water body New habitat for aquatic fauna positiveimplementation and (migrating) birds and

fisheries ___

Reservoir for potable water Supplies 40% of potable water positivesupply to Kashkadarya oblast _____

Water diversion Reduction of river discharge Depletion of water resource of negative No Not availableand water availability: KMC Amu Darya and Aral sea, withdiverts 10 to 20 % of Amu ecological consequencesDarya flow Less water for downstream

usersSeepage from canal Water logging in certain areas no Seepage cannot Control

along the approach channel on be prevented Turkmenistanmainly marginal land irrigation and

drainage systemSeepage from Talimarjan Inundation of quarry and positivereservoir creation of nice new water

body. Leased for ten years forcommercial fish production.Potential as recreational area

Talimarjan reservoir In dry years the water level No conflict between the prime no No Monitoringoperation falls below maximum draw technical objectives of reservoir

down level (dead storage level) operation and bio-diversity isduring august and september evident



Dredging __=___._

General Energy consumption & cost Depletion of natural resources. no Replacemenit ofFuel and oil spills of diesel Air pollution. Water pollution diesel engines byengines not evident. electrical mnotors.

Might be requiredby Turkinen law inthe future (not inPhase 1)

Desilting effect: lower turbidity Increased fish fauna, bio- positivein the KMC and especially in diversity.the reservoir.

Sludge disposal Occupation of marginal lands None nofor disposal basins 550 habetween PK 34 and PK 204(psi). _ _ _ _ _

Overflow of polders due to Inundation of grazing areas, negative New drainage noinsufficient capacity and railway, drainage collectors. schemevertical drains.

Sludge return to river Increased sediment load & Erosion of left & right river yes in Erosion Possibly afterelevated longitudinal profile. banks is a fact. Only detailed case it is protection on detailed study of

studies of the river dynamics caused by the left bank. river dynamicscan prove that this has been dredging New iiitake (not in Phase I)caused by the Karshi scheme structure &

dredgingscheme toreducequantities by 40

Affiliated infrastructure _____



Drainage along the Water logging in certain areas along the approach channel. Mainly no Replacement of Turkmen irrigationapproach channel to on marginal lands pumps (not in practice &reduce the effect of Phase I) drainage systemseepage from KMC:practically out of orderBridge over KMC PK 63: Bridge not motorable. Accidents have been reported. negative No ReconstructionunfinishedConstruction activitiesBlasting for construction Turkmen Goscompriroda The water quality information no No Noof intake claimed the water quality of supplied by Turkmen authorities

the 7 ground water supply could not confirm this: waterwells near Dustluk has from these wells is of gooddeteriorated potable quality

Operation activitiesMaintenance Windows of pump stations are Excrements everywhere negative No repair

damaged so that birds canenter the building _ _

Sanitary conditions Toilettes and shower rooms are Detrimental to health negative No installation ancdin a bad condition management of

__________________________ __________________________________________________________________ =_ __ proper facilities



Table 6.2 Past and present impacts on the Karshi scheme from the environmentSignificant Mitigated by Additional

Regional Activities Physical Effect Environmental Impact Impact Rehiabilitation MitigationProject Required

Amu Darya upstream _

Water diversion Considerable reduction of Amu Depletion of water resource yes not possible(Karakum) Darya discharge: Karakum canal of Amu Darya and Aral sea.

diverts 20 to 30% of the Amu Ecological consequences.Darya flow (57/34 109 m3 Users downstream.max/average discharge)

Dredging (Karakum) Increase in turbidity and Increased sediment load in yes not possiblesedimentation. river and KMC.

Along KMC _Irrigation of areas Increased ground water level (also Water logging and soil yes no (replacement Turkmenistan:adjacent to the KMC in partly due to non-functioning salinisation. of pumps can appropriateTurkmenistan. drainage pumps and single tile only control irrigation

drain, see Table 1-5) effect of practices andseepage from drainage systemcanal)

Damage of canal lining yes repairthrough "uplift". __

Drainage from irrigation areas. Insignificant salt intrusion by no nodrainage water diversion tothe KMC.

Land use in small parts Change of KMC water quality noof the Appropriated Zone not anticipated, but isin Turkmenistan. violation of Turkmen Water

Protection Zone regulation.Dismantled storm water Inflow of surface drainage water Contamination of KMC water noaqueduct over KMC. into KMC. (Mud flows have not with drainage water seems to



been experienced during recent be insignificant.20 years due to development ofirrigation infrastructure in itscatchment area)

Wind transport of sand Sedimentation and reduction of No impacts are apparent. nointo the canal. discharge capacity. After 25

years of operation the effectappears to be insignificantcompared with the sediment loadfrom river diversion.

Along Talimarjan reservoirTransboundary traffic. Due to complicated procedures Potential pollution of reservoir unknown no environmental

passing the Turkmen border, it is water. vigilanceexpected that future traffic Disturbance of habitats forbetween Karshi and Talimarjan rare and endangered species.will tend to go over the inspectionroad through the Water ProtectionZone.

Industry, agriculture, etc. All potential polluters have No pollution of water and soil. noalready been banned out of theWater Protection Zone. _-

Wind transport of sand Sedimentation and reduction of No impacts are apparent. nointo the reservoir. storage capacity. No details about

quantity and quality are knownbut after 20 years of operationthe effect does not appear to besignificant.



6.3 Potential impacts from future rehabilitation of the KMC

As can be seen from the Table 6.1. the Rehabilitation Project tries to mitigate most of thenegative impacts of the existing Karshi scheme.

Consequently, analysis of the activities designed under the Rehabilitation Project has notrevealed any significant negative environmental impacts. All activities are beneficial from anenvironmental point of view as can be seen from the table 6.2.

However a few issues remain to be managed since they are of bi-national nature. These will betaken up in the mitigation plan (cf. Chapter 7).



Table 6.3 Potential impacts from the future rehabilitation activitiesRehabilitation Activities { Physical Effect Environmental Impact Signifi Remarks

-cantl ______________________________________ Impact _

KMCImproved river intake and the 40 % reduction of sediment load and Less consumption of natural positiveconstruction of a new gated consequently reduction of sediment resources and air pollution. Lesscontrol structure in the lead to be dredged recharge of dredged sediments tocanal the riverRepair of canal lining in "uplift" Only on project infrastructure Requires removal and disposal of nosections PK 310 to PK 389 7,000 m3 of concrete slabsProtection (with gabions) of Prevent further bank erosion Protection of adjacent areas positiveeroded canal left bank at PK367Dredgingg

Improved dredging scheme Dredging efficiency improved and Due to possible limited capacity and positiveincreased operational security of disabled drainage system, polderspolders (Polders are dredging material may be overfilled, arid water breaksdisposal sites having a drainage through embankments and maysystem (mixture of water and silt inundate adjacent agricultural landsshould be separated) that are along the canal. This will be avoidedseparated each from other by with appropriate measuresembankments). _

Sludge disposal Disposal plan covers disposal in Afetr disposal or reaching maximum Neutralappropriate zone along KMC and in height, sludge will becovered with topolders; by pumping over distance if sandy-loam (0.2-0.3 m) and planted positiverequired with grass, bushes, etc. to prevent

wind erosion



River bank revetmentRevetment made of gabions on Prevention of erosion of the river Prevention of river bank erosion. positivethe left bank of the Amu Darya bank Socio-economyat Kyzyl (not now part of PhaseI; postponed to full scalerehabilitation). __

Drainage system along KMC __ ___

Replacement of mechanical and Limited effect on groundwater level positiveelectrical equipment: pumps and butdischarge pipe lines limited(not now part of Phase I;postponed to full scalerehabilitation). ___ _

Unfinished road bridge

Completion of construction of The rudimentary bridge is being used Improved communication and positive _the unfinished bridge at PK 63 frequently by the local population and prevention of accidents(not now part of Phase I; several accidents have been reportedpostponed to full scalerehabilitation). _



Command Area Development _ __

Selective rehabilitation of More efficient use of the existing Reduction of irrigation water positive Focus onirrigation and drainage systems irrigation and draiange systems in conveyance losses; more efficient on- canelletesand establisment of Water 20,000 ha (5%) of the command farm irrigation, improved drainage flumesUsers Assocaitions (WUAs) area and reduced water logging and

__________________ . _ _ _ __ _ ________________ .____________________ sa lin ityEnvironmental hazards due to construction activitiesConstruction activities are regular in sensitivity and generally small in size, and as such do not require particular negativeenvironmental precaution. Nevertheless, the risk of accidental environmental damage should be controlled, if notespecially with regard to: controllethe risk of spilling and ground or water contamination with fuels, oil and lubricants; dthe risk of dangers to workers and of air pollution during application of exterior and interior coatings to thedischarge pipelines;the disposal of construction and other disgarded materialsuncontrolled heavy traffic.


Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabilitation Phase I Project 91Environmental AssessmertDraft Final Report

6.3.1 Drainage system along the approach channel

The drainage system consisting of a single tile drainage line, four pump stations and dischargepipe to the KMC, has been installed directly after construction of the KMC in order to reducethe effects of seepage from the canal, before the implementation of the Turkmen irrigationsystem. Water logging along the KMC between PK 70 and PK 1 95 is caused by canal waterlevels higher than land level in certain sections of KMC, as well as by inappropriate irrigationpractices.

It must be concluded that the rehabilitation measures will have limited effect on groundwaterlevel and the objective of the entire drainage scheme need to be reviewed in the light ofgenerally poor soil conditions for irrigated agriculture, the prevailing irrigation practices, and thelack of a proper drainage system. It must be recognized that a single tile drainage line has littleeffect on the groundwater level of an irrigation area.

For the rehabilitation of the drainage system provisions would be made only for the replacementof mechanical and electrical equipment. Replacement of the single drainage line or increase ofdrainage capacity to provide the additional requirements caused by the Turkmen irrigationpractices is not planned. Although this activity is considered positive it will not be sufficient tobe effective.

It is considered necessary that appropriate irrigation practices and a proper drainage system beinstalled in the Turkmen irrigation area. Coordinated rehabilitation activities are required toreach the common objective of water logging prevention. This activity is not scheduledanymore for Phase I.

6.3.2 Replacement of engines for dredgers

Diesel engines of the dredgers will be replaced by electric motors. From the Feasibility Report itis understood that there is still a provision for one or two diesel powered dredgers although ithas been reported that such dredgers will be prohibited by Turkmen law.

It is suggested to consider the requirements of the respective future Turkmen law. As this lawhas not yet been formalized, this activity has been shifter to a later stage.

6.3.3 Erosion of the Amu Darya river banks

Erosion of left and right river banks is evident. It has been anticipated, particularly by Turkmenofficials that this is due to dredging activities in the river and the return of dredged sedimentfrom the KMC to the river. Nevertheless, it has never been proved that erosion has beencaused by the Project's activities.

The Rehabilitation Project provides for a new intake structure and a modified dredging schemewhich have been designed to reduce sediment quantities and dredging requirements by 40 %.Additionally, the project provides for erosion protection measures on the left bank of the AmuDarya at Kyzyl Ayak. These measures will be sufficient to prevent future erosion at Kyzyl Ayak.



In order to provide for a more scientific and long-term oriented approach to this issue, it issuggested that detailed studies of the river dynamics be undertaken to investigate the questionof cause and effect of water diversion and dredging, on both the Karakum and Karshi schemes.

6.3.4 Environmental risks and hazards during construction

Construction activities under the Rehabilitation Project are regular in sensitivity and small insize, and as such do not require particular environmental precautions. Nevertheless,environmental due diligence is required to control the risk of accidental environmental damageand to prevent environmental impacts as much as possible. All this falls under the responsibilityof the Contractor and Construction Supervision.

6.4 Impacts on water quality

6.4.1 General

Walk of the Amu Darya is by far the main life line of West Uzbekistan. Any intervention atplace with respect to water, either quantitatively or qualitatively may affect environment andpeople of other locations. The same is true for postponing and canceling an intervention. Suchan intervention also concerns the KPC rehabilitation, which is explained with Figure 11.

Figure 11 Water system in and downstream the project area

Aral Sea

|Karakalpnakstan

j i ; ~~~~Khorezm|It~Ik~

Zavaedsan RiverE b . ~~~~~Bukhwa 1

* FLw:shl I Kaol 4 Kashkadarva River

As visualized by the above figure, Karshi irrigation command area is located upstream threeother major agricultural regions. Distinguish between Phase I and a full scale KPC rehabilitationis relevant because it determines water quantity and water quality for the areas downstream onthe long run.

Republic of Uzbekistan 12/07X01Ministry of Agriculture and Water ResourcesProject Implementation Unit

Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabiltation Phase I Project 93Environmental AssessmentDraft Final Report

Because the situation concerns an existing installation, these impacts will be dealt with onlybriefly. It is emphasized that scenarios and project options are applied according to chapter 5.

6.4.2 Assumptions

This section presents the assumptions at the basis of the calculations of water quality impacts.The assumptions concern the model used, the physical characteristics of water bodies and theagricultural and irrigation/drainage parameters used.

Model used

Two models have been applied for calculations of the water and salt balance: the first one wasdeveloped at the Uzgi and the other one is a simplified version already applied in the EA of theUzbekistan Drainage Project, Phase 2.

Physical characteristics of the water bodies

The assessment of the CDW salinity downstream Sultandag is based on the calculations of thelake salinity, for which the following characteristics were used:

- Volume: 380 min m3

- Salinity: 7g!L- Salt stored: 2.66 min ton- Evaporation: 1 58 m31yr- Infiltration losses: 61 m3/yr

Regarding the storage capacity of the Yuzny floodplain, it was decided to use the sameassumption as in the EA of the Uzbekistan Drainage Project, Phase 2: the floodplain absorbs 0.3km3 per year of mineralized CDW in all cases.

The scenario C + assumes that 0.6 km3/yr is deviated to Dengizkul, via Lake Sichankul.

Table 6.4 Assumptions on physical characteristics of the water (used in model EAUzbekistan Drainage Project)

Situation Unit Present Without project With project(1990-

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _1 9 9 7 ) _ _ _ _

Scenario A C C + A C C +Reuse of drainage km3/yr 0 0.1 0 0.1 0 0.4

water I___I_

Sichankul diversion km3/yr 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.6Floodplain absorption km3/yr 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.3Sultandag evaporation km3/yr 0.2 0.2 0.2 . 0.2 10.2 0.2

Irrigation/drainage parameters

The assumptions on agricultural parameters, already mentioned in Table 5.1, are presented inmore details in the table below.



Table 6.5 Assumptions on irrigation and drainage parameter (used in the two models)Situation Unit Present Without project With project

(1 990-1997)

Scenario _ A |C C- A C C+KMC diversion km3 4. 72 -35% -35% Stable Stable Stabi

Total command area 1000 360.7 Stable Stabl Stable Stable + 1 2_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ h a e _ _ _ _ _0

Area actual irrigation 1000 330.7 -20% -20% Stable Stable + 12ha _ 0

Water use efficiency % 44% -5% +33 -5% +33 +33

Water use for m3/iha/ 12,438 10,45 9,78 9,972 9,520 9,52irrigation yr 5 5 0

CDW Yuzny discharge km3lyr 1.6 1.43 0.72 1.78 0.90 1.68CDW Yuzny salinity g/L 6.4 6.4 7.6 16.4 7.6 7.6CDW Yuzny salt load mln. 10.2 9.2 5.5 11.4 6.8 12.8

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ to n _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

The calculations are made assuming a 50% dry year.

6.4.3 CDW and Amu Darya river

Table 6.6 and 6.7 contain the calculation results for the various scenarios and options. Table6.5 is developed with the EA of the Uzbekistan Drainage Project, Phase 2 model, while Table6.6 refers to the balance model of Uzgi.

Table 6.6 Assessment of impacts on water resources (model EA Uzbekistan DrainageProject)

Situation Unit Present Without project With project(1990-1997)

Scenario A C C-+ A C C+

CDW d/s Sultandag km3/yr 1.0 0.7 0.1 1.1 0.3 0.2discharge | .

CDW d/s Sultandag g/L 7.4 7.8 14.9 7.4 11.4 10.9salinity ICDW d/s Sultandag salt mln 7.3 5.6 2.0 7.8 3.2 2.0

load ton/yr _

Amu Darya d/s CDW km3/yr 30.5 31.9 31.3 30.6 29.8 29.7discharge _ _

Amu Darya dls CDW g/L 0.82 0.76 0.66 0.83 0.70 0.66salinity I _

Amu Darya d/s CDW salt min 25.0 24.3 20.7 25.5 20.9 19.7load ton/yr _


Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabilitation Phase I Project 95Environmental AssessmentDraft Fina, Report

Table 6.7 Assessment of impacts on water resources (model Uzgi)Situation Unit Present Without project With project

1 990-_1997)

Scenario A C C+ A C C+CDW d/s Sultandag km3/yr 1.0 0.73 0.2 0.11 1.08 0.38 0.23

discharge [0.69] (<0.3I _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ ___ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _______ 6)I CDW d/s Sultandag g/L 7.4 [7.6] _ 7.8 + 8.8 + 10.2 + 7.1 + 9.7 + 9.8salinityCDW d/s Sultandag salt mln 7.3 [5.21 5.46 1.35 1.12 7.67 3.69 2.25

load ton/yr I

Amu Darya d/s CDW km3/yr 30.5 31.9 31.8 31.8 32.8 32.1 31.9dischargeAmu Darya dis CDW g/L 0.82 0.76 0.62 0.6 0.78 0.67 0.63

salinity W 0 0 0Amu Darya d/s CDW saltl mln 25.4 24.2 21.2 19.1 125.6 21.7 20.2

load ton/yr _

[ ...1 dry year figures

Figure 12 to Figure 15 present the results of the table 6.6, for each stage of the irrigation /drainage system outside Karshi command area.

Republic of Uzbekistan 12/07/01Ministry ot Agriculture and Water ResourcesProject Implementation Unit


* Uzbekistan Sichan

Turkmenistan.

N, Sichankul0.1

[ m '\ E21 ° ~~~~~~~01 / KARSHISutada7.1Yun

Amu Darya -Y.

U 1 6 4 1 ~~~~, / KMC0.6~~~-.. ~~~/

- irrigation water F3.1

1 CDW flow

lake with evaporationcapacity lkm3/yrl /

floodplain with absorption /-0.3 capacity Ikm3/yrl 0.6

| 4 7 1 annual discharge (km3)o average salinity (g/L)

0. 1 reuse of drainage water NB sallity of Sultandag will stabills. after a period of 30 years to about 7.8 glL

Figure 12 Scenario A, without project I Phase I KPC rehabilitation)

Uzbekistan Sichank Arurkmenis tan-.

Sichankul

O..66EC/ KARSHIs Sulta n d ag 9

AmuDarya -0Y

0.6 ~ 6| KMC

- irrigation water 3

CDW flow 0.6

lake with evaporation'----' 5 capacity Ikm3/yrl

floodplain with absorption /-0.3 capacity Ikm3/yrl FF 0I64.7 annual discharge (km310.6 average salinity (gIL)

NB: salinity of Sultmndag wi stabilke after a period of 50 years to about 19.4 g/L

Figure 13 Scenario C, without project ( Phase I KPC rehabilitation)

Republic of Uzbekistan 12V07/01Ministry of Agriculture and Water ResourcesProject Implementation Unit


-Uzbekistan Sichankul Arurkmenis tan,

> ~~~Sichankul /

m 1 \ 0 o-1 / ;j KARSHI\ Sultatldag-1 t

< \ 6 4 ,>/ X > ~Yuzny \Amu Darya

i 29 5, KMC

A.~~~~E.L

- irrigation water [4.]i

CDW flow

I J I lake with evaporation /F1o0-1 ' capacity (km3/yr/

floodplain with absorption '-0.3 capacity lkm3/yrl l l

[147 annual discharge (km3l0.6 < average salinity (gIL)0- NB: salnity of Sultandag will stabilize after a period of 60 years to about 7.4 glL

Figure 14 Scenario A, with project

Uzbekistan Sichankuf

Tturkmenis- an . I

. ~~Sichankul /

Surladag l1 Y z

Amu Darya *0.

-0.3J :

0i1 j 7 6KMC

- irrigation water E4 i

CDW flow 0

[t | lake with evaporation /capacity (km3/yr) /

floodplain with absorption /.0.3 capacity (km3/yr) <

FT 7] annual discharge (km3)

0_ 6 1 average salinity (g'L) NB: saliniky of Sultandag will stabllse after a period of 40 years to about 11.9 g/L

Figure 15 Scenario C, with project


Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabiktateon Phase 0Proecl 93Environmental AssessmentDraft Final Report

The table 6.8 summarnzes the previous figures on the salt loads along the irrigation , drainagesystem.

Table 6.8 Indicative salt loads from the KMC intake to the CDW discharge back to the AmuDarya

IParameter Unit Present Scenario A Scenario C__ __ _ _ ___without with without With

KMC salt load min 12.8 1.8 2.8 1.8 2.8

lSalt load due to mln 7.4 7.3 8.6 3.6 4.0irrigation/drainage ton 'yr I[practices I lOff-stream storage mln l-2.9 -3.6 -3.6 -3.5 -3.6

ton/yr _ l _l

CDW salt load mln/ 7.3 5.6 7.8 2.0 3.2

CDW - KMC salt load mln 4.5 3.7 5.0 0.2 0.4ton/yr

CDW - KMC % -17% + 11% -96% -92%comparison with present|situation _ . . . ._ . _l

Scenario C shows dramatic results in terms of salt load reduction, with similar values for thewith- and without project. Scenario C supposes indeed the irrigation water is used moreefficiently resulting in a lower salt load due to irrigation and drainage practices. The latter istwice lower than in Scenario A.

The off-stream storage takes into account the reuse of drainage water in agriculture, theSichankul diversion, the floodplain absorption and the Sultandag evaporation and infiltration. Inall cases the salt load stored off-stream represents 3.5 to 3.6 min ton per year. Moreoverscenario C + includes a canal connection between Lake Sultandag and Dengizkul.

In the Scenario A, the without project situation gives better results than the situation where theproject is implemented in full. This is mainly explained by the fact that full projectimplementation would result in a larger amount of more water to be diverted from the AmuDarya and subsequently a larger discharge of CDW. The same reasoning accounts for theScenario C, though the differences between the with- and without project are slight, whencompared to the existing situation.

6.4.4 Lake and floodplain water

Sichankul

In all the situations (except for scenario C +), it is assumed that 1 10 mln m3 CDW is diverted to

the Sichankul. This lake remains land-locked and all diverted water is eveporated.


Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabi itatcn Phasa :c ect 99Environmental AssessmentDraft Final Report

Since the evaporation rate equals toe 'i[lov,, the volume of the lake will remain stable. Inscenario A, salinity would increase by 0.5 g I Der year, resulting in a salinity of about 22.7 gILin 2030. In scenario C and C-, the salinity of the CDW increases up to 7.6 g/L resulting in aslightly faster increase in lake salinity: in 2030, Sichankul salinity would reach about 24 g/L.

In both cases the salinity becomes far beyond the limits when a certain biodiversity can bemaintained.

Sultandag

With the existing flow-through conditions, salinity is expected to stabilize within the coming 50years, in all cases. The higher salinity of the CDW inflow for Scenario C, combined with verylow flow conditions, accounts for the higher lake salinity.

Table 6.9 Lake salinity evolutionLake Unit Present Scenario A Scenario C

without lwith Without lWithSichankul g/L 7.5 Constant deterioration (+0.5 per Constant deterioration (+0.6 per

year) year)Sultandag g/L + 7 Stabilization at Stabilization at Stabilization at|Stabilization ati_______ 7.8 17.4 19.4 1 1.9

While Lake Sichankul can not be saved from biodiversity loss, Lake Sultandag has enoughpotential for a reasonable biodiversity level. (< 1 5 g/l). However the Lake is threatened by toolow gflows, especially predicted for scenario C conditions.

Yuzny floodplain

The water balance of the floodplain shows gaps: the storage capacity is unknown. In thepresent impact study it was assumed that the floodplain absorbs 0.3 km3 per year ofmineralized CDW in all cases. This assumption might be over-estimated as it represents a saltload off-stream storage of 1.9 to 2.3 min ton per year according to the different cases.However it allows comparing the different cases quite objectively.

It is recommended that these uncertainties be addressed in a specific study. Actually such astudy will be carried out in an environment of improving water management practices (underscenario Cl} Another issue concerns optimum flow conditions for Lake Sultandag.

6.4.5 Conclusions

In scenario C, considerably less irrigation water would be diverted from the Amu Daryacompared to scenario A. This would result in considerably less CDW flow and eventually insome 20% salt load reduction in the Amu Darya. However, the serious reduction in CDW flowthrough the Yuzny floodplain and Lake Sultandag would affect its bio-diversity seriously as lowflows create higher salinity levels.


Karshi Pumping Cascade Renabilitation Phase I Prolect 1 00Environmental AssessmentDraft Final Report

In scenario A, the full-fetch rehabilitation project would result in a maximum diversion ofirrigation water combined with remaining low water use efficiencies; therefore this alternativescores worst with respect CDW load released to the Amu Darya; however, this would createbetter conditions for the flow-through lakes.

In scenario A without the full project a disfunctioning of part of the pumping cascade isassumed. Gradually high risks will develop as It is unsure where fall outs will occur lit "only" 6pumps in one pumping station disfunction, theni the whole KMC will be out of operation). Thismeans that a partial rehabilitation of the pumping cascade (as planned as first phase) would bepreferred above a full-fletch rehabilitation in case of no scenario C developments;

Scenario C + as proposed by the GoU makes optimal use of the water saved from all high leveldevelopments. There is scope for such an alternative with respect to water quality, but thereremains a considerable CDW flow to be discharged downstream either through the Amu Daryadirectly or through Lake Dengizkul (In case of connection with lake Sichankul) and the Parzankulspillway. It is stressed that in an environniental assessment and economic analyses forirrigation and development under scenario C + are required but not yet carried out.

6.5 Impact on land salinisation and water logging

6.5.1 Introduction

Land salinisation is an issuerelated to irrigation and drainage practices and not to rehabilitationworks of a pumping cascade. The issue will be dealt with in detail within the pilot areas forreceiving institutional support (WAU's) and infrastructure rehabilitation (e.g. canalettes). Thissection provides indications of impacts but primarly is aimed future monitoring and landsalinisation in relation to land abandonment.

6.5.2 Land salinisation

Distinction is made between salinized lands that are scattered over the command area inrelatively small plots and marginal lands at larger scale like in Mubarek. The available remotesensing images do not reveal saline plots, because highly and hyper saline plots are too small tobe visible, while for larger affected areas with lower levels of salinity smaller crop growth cannot be recognized. However, a new soil salinity map has been drafted, digitized and used.

Table 6.1 0Salinized land Present Scenario A Scenario C

Moderate- Highly without with without withhighly salinesaline ... _ .

Basin level 20% 5% Slight Slight Slight Decrease___________ increase increase decrease

In pilot areas 135% 11 2 % Decrease Decrease _

Distribution and Intensity. The data analyses show that moderately and highly saline soils cover20% (more than 70.4 thousand ha) of irrigated lands. They are located at Mubarek, Karshi,Nishan and Kasan districts.


Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabilitation Pnase I Project 1 01Environmental AssessmentDraft Final Renort

Gypsiferous soils with diffe-ent content and form of gypsum are also an insuperable problemfor the new irrigated areas ia Nishan d.strict. These gypsum layers reduce the infiltration 'rateand leaching efficiency and impair cultivation.

Scenario A

For scenario A, the current trends on command area level are expected to continue. This meansthat in general salinisation is expected to increase slightly: small highly saline plots within thefarm plots and large marginal lands will slightly grow in size.

In the without project case ie,s v,ater ,I be diverted, therefore the farmers that own largemarginal lands will most likely abandon tnem. This will result in a decrease of salinizedagricultural land. However this decrease is expected to be slight as the small highly saline plotswill remain in the irrigated areas.

In the with project situation, no marginal lands are expected to be abandonned. Thus theproportion of salinized land within the irrigation command area is expected to follow the currentslight increase.

Scenario C

It is expected that in scenario C the relatively small salinized plots will disappear (e.g. due toland leveling), which would result in a higher level of suitability for agriculture. At the sametime (part of the) marginal lands would be abandoned as these can not run economically at allin a more open market system.

Compared to the without project case, in tne with project case part of the marginal lands maybe upgraded as more water is available. Farmers may also decide to move to more suitableareas. In the with project situation more agricultural land is expected to be actually availablewith somewhat higher average soil salinity.

6.5.3 Water logging of land

Scenario A incorporates the pilot activities of Phase I, covering about 5% of the commandarea. As these pilot areas WUA's and appropriate infrastructue, one can assume considerableimprovement of environmental conditions.

6.5.4 Land abandonment

The issue of land abandonment very much relates to customs and opinions of farmers. Forinstance, to what extent they are open for other professions, to what extent they can copepoverty, to what extent they are socia!!y linkld to the farmer's world.

Historically, Karshi farmers have established themselves in the area some decades ago. Thiscould mean that they do not have a farmer's history that dates back several generations. Thismight indicate that, relatively speaking, these farmers may be open for abandoning their land incase of appropriate alternatives.


Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabilitation Phase I Pro1ec: 1 02Environmental AssessmentDraft Final Report

This latter issue is considered important for Karshi development in a more broad sense as well.We would propose that this issue be taken up by the social assessment.



7 Environmental mitigation plan

7.1 Introduction

The environmental mitigation plan will be a brief plan with emphasis on environmentalmanagement guidelines proposed for the Phase I rehabilitation activities along KMC. Thefollowing reasons are behind:

- the rehabilitation project already implies mitigation of current and potential futureenvironmental impacts;

- the institutional project component is expected to lead to more sustainable irrigatedagriculture in the command areas; in that case irrigation water requirements willreduce which will result in less CDW; CDW reduction may result in negative impacts topotential wetland areas; this can be mitigated by improved CDW management; this inturn is supposed to be part of scenario C developments;

- environmental impacts appear very limited in number as well as intensity;

- the social and socio-economic aspects of water and land management includingagricultural performance will be dealt with in the social impact assessment study;

7.2 Environmental management guidelines for KMC rehabilitation

7.2.1 Technical enhancement measures

This section recommends measures that are not included in the Feasibility Study.

Structural repair

Windows of pump stations need repair. Many are damaged so that birds can enter the buildingswith the effect that excrements are found everywhere. This is not considered an environmentalbut a structural repair measure and no cost have been estimated for the environmental costbreakdown.

Improved sanitary conditions

Installation and management of proper sanitary facilities are being considered a prerequisite ofmodern health care. Actually the toilettes and shower rooms of the pump stations are in a badcondition. The Project should be a good example to the people and promote the communicationof good practices. This is not considered an environmental but a structural repair measure andno cost have been estimated for the environmental cost breakdown.

Electric motors for dredgers

From the Feasibility Report it is understood that there is still a provision for one or two dieselpowered dredgers. It is suggested to consider the requirements of the respective futureTurkmen law which would not allow any diesel motor driven dredgers. This item is notconsidered part of Phase I, but may appear ina later phase.


Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehaoilitatior Phase I ProjecT 1 04Environmental AssessmentDraft Final Report

Disposal basins

The establishment of additional disposal basins on the left bank of the intake canal needsconsideration with respect to exceeding its caoacity (possibly after a period of 5-6 years). Wewould recommend that the Feasibility study consultant in co-operation withUzgipromeliovodkhoz optimize their dredging material disposal plan for next 20-25 years withinthe appropriated zone along KM/C.

7.2.2 Environmental due diligence during construction

As has been explained in Chapter 6.1, construction activities under the Rehabilitation Projectare regular in sensitivity and small in size, and as such do not require particular environmentalprecaution: environmental risks and hazards during construction are considered low.Nevertheless, environmental due diligence is required to control the residual risk of accidentalenvironmental damage and to prevent as much as possible environmental impacts. All this fallsunder the responsibility of the Contractor and the Construction Supervision.

Respective precautionary measures will have to be set out in the Environmental ManagementPlan to be prepared during the Final Design stage of the Project, according to the projectspecific attributes set out in the Final Design of the Project and the Tender Documents. Theyinclude globally the following issues:

- handling of hazardous material as far as part of construction activities;- movement of machinery;- management of quarries and borrow areas, if any;- collection and safe disposal of hazardous residues and dismantled material: big

quantities of electro-mechanical equipment and concrete slabs will have to beremoved;

- occupational safety and health;- management of heavy traffic;- management of pollution incidents.

In Uzbekistan, facilities are available for the reuse/recycling of petrolic residues and wastesalthough they have been rarely used in the past. It is necessary that effective procedures beingimplemented for the use of such facilities, at the on-set of rehabilitation activities.

The disposal of dismantled material, especially the high amount of concrete slabs from canallining, has to be co-ordinated with local administration. Agreement for disposal site(s) shouldalso include the collection and disposal of material from former activities, which can be foundoutside the pump stations and workshops.

Environmental due diligence is required for both Phase I as well as a full size rehabilitation ofthe KPC.

7.2.3 Environmental enhancement measures

The ecological importance of Talimarjan area warrants the implementation of environmentalprotection measures:

Republic of Uzbekistan 12/07/01Ministry of Agriculture and Water ResoLircrsProject Implementation Unit

Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabihtation Phase I Po,ect 1 05Environmental AssessmentDraft Final Report

- Habitats protection;- Management of the Water Protection Zones.

Karshi Goscompriroda suggested plantng of the 41 km long perimeter around the reservoir witha green belt of 500 m width, totaling an area of 2100 ha. The proposal considers planting thewhole perimeter around the reservoir including those areas in its wind shade which would ofcourse not be effective. Instead, it is proposed to consider a more problem-oriented approach:

- Green belt consisting of mix6d vegetation types on a 1 0-km long strip along the north-west border of the reservoir.

- Bio-physical revetmenm tu stabilize water erosion patterns on the north-western shoreof the reservoir.

- Planting mixed vegetation types In the area between the reservoir and the by-passcanal belonging to the Water Protection Zone (gross 8 km2 , net 1 to 2 kM2).

These measures would be beneficial for protection of the reservoir and the Water ProtectionZone and also for maintaining the habitats of rare and endangered species. Furthermore, itcould partly offset the impacts of increaseo traffic which is suspected to incur on theinspection road along the reservoir.

The Talimarjan reservoir is a good example for the co-existence and mutual development oftechnical infrastructure and ecological values. Therefore, the idea of habitat protection andmanagement deserves being seriously considered.

The cost of this measure is estimated at US$ 1.5 million for the planting of 300 ha mixedvegetation and US$ 0.1 million for bio-physical revetment. Annual maintenance cost during first5 years are estimated at 4% of the implementation cost.

The complete enhancement measures are proposed in view of complete rehabilitation of theKPC. Phase I may compromise initial steps of environmental enhancement, like bio-physicalrevetments. Cost is estimated at 25%.

7.3 Recommendation concerning waterlogged area along KMC

The water logging and salinisation problem of Turkmen irrigation areas along KMC has been fora long time under controversial discussion between Turkmen and Uzbek officials.

In order to tackle this issue, the Rehabilitation Project would provide for the replacement ofdrainage pumps and discharge pipelines (but no restoration of the seepage interceptor pipeline)along the KMC from PK 63 to 195.

But this is not considered sufficient to control water logging. It would be necessary thatappropriate irrigation practices and a proper drainage system (within the irrigation area) beenforced by the Turkmen adminiistration. Design of the drainage system and restoration of theseepage interceptor both need to be coordinated. Monitoring activities are being considerednecessary (see Chapter 8).

Republic of Uzbekistan 1 2!07 01Ministry of Agriculture and Water ResourcesProject Implementation Unit


Co-ordination of rehabilitation activ: 1es 5etvween Turkmen and Uzbek authorities will berequired to reach the common objectivc of high ground water level, water logging andsalinisation prevention.

Cost for the implementation of the drainage system in the irrigation area would have to becovered by the Turkmen side. Cost for the restoration of the seepage interceptor would have tobe covered by the Rehabilitation Project. It is clear that this would not be a single tile drain, andas already mentioned above, its desigit need to be coordinated with the one of the drainagesystem in the irrigation area. It is therefore not possible to estimate the cost without furtherstudy including monitoring of groundwater level (see Chapter 8). The estimate (US$ 1.4 million)presented in the Feasibility Report is being viewed with reservation.

The issue will not be taken up within the scope of Phase I rehabilitation. We would proposethat both governments start discussion on how to tackle the problems and to study impactsand solutions.



8 Environmental monitoring plan

8.1 Introduction

Irrespectively of the Rehabilitation Project, some activities of the KMC and the surroundingenvironment have a potential negative impact on environmental values. The activities and/ortheir effects must be monitored so that appropriate action can be taken in order to preventenvironmental damage.

8.2 Transboundary traffic

Environmental vigilance will be required to contrcl the potential threat of traffic over theinspection road leading through the Water Protection Zone. It can be suspected that, due tocomplicated procedures passing the Turkmen border, future traffic between Karshi andTalimarjan towns will tend to go over this road with the potential pollution of reservoir waterand disturbance of habitats for several rare and endangered species. Karshi Goscompriroda hasalready been informally monitoring all activities .n the Water Protection Zone. No direct cost arebeing considered to occur.

In case development of traffic may s.,spect detr>i;,cntal effects, this should be notified to theOperating Department who, in co-operationi with other institutions, should take necessaryaction.

8.3 Monitoring nature preservation Talimarjan

Environmental vigilance should be performed by monitoring reservoir operation and waterquality during low water level periods ef the critical months of august and september.

Monitoring activities could be performed in co-operation with the operator of the WaterTreatment Plant located at the outflow of the reservoir, as part of their regular measurementsonce operation has started. Any evidence of detrimental development should be communicatedimmediately to the KMC Operating Department.

8.4 Monitoring of groundwater level and water logging

Ground water level readings at several characteristic locations at 1 50 m and 500 m distancefrom the KMC (PK 63 to 195 and PK 304 to 380) should be performed three times a year, atthe beginning, peak and end of the main irrigation season. Evidence of water logging should beobserved. The locations of ground water level readings would be determined, permanently fieldmarked and surveyed after detailed field inspection.

The person in charge should have adequate experience in this field and be able to interpret themeasured data in situ. He should be independent from other monitoring activities. Theequipment would consist of a standard Dutch Auger Hole kit. Monitoring activities should beperformed in co-operation with specialists designated by the Turkmen administration.

Republic of Uzbekistan 1 2/07,01Ministry of Agriculture anrl Water Rcsouru ?Project Implementation Unit


Measured data and observations should be filed and edited for annual reporting and long-termevaluation. Evaluation of data would be used to determine drainage requirements and designdrainage schemes.

8.5 Monitoring of land salinisation

Land salinisation will not be generated by the rehabilitation project. It is expected to be reducedthrough time as a result of institutional and policy reforms. Therefore it is useful in theframework of this project but certainly also for the general socio-economic conditions tomonitor land salinisation. It may also clarify the reasons behind land abandonment. Salinisationof small plots on farmers lands does not necessarily lead to abandoning land.

Analyses of the remote sensing images, acquired by this project, show that salinisation andwater logging can hardly be recognized:

- as waterlogging is limited;- as the highly saline areas or plots are relatively small compared to the pixel size of the

images; the pixel size determines the level of detailed information;- as the view of these features vary strongly over the seasons.

We have to conclude that remote sensing with Landsat images are not considered an optimaltool for land salinisation monitoring. Therefore the following procedure is proposed formonitoring:

- yearly drafting of maps for soil salinity, depth to groundwater and groundwater salinity;the latter two maps may be less detailed as soil salinity is the main parameter for theKarshi command area; it should be noted that departments in the Ministry alreadycollect detailed melioration information on a yearly basis;

- yearly comparison with maps of previous years and trends identification;

- yearly analyses in selected areas of soil salinity trends with agricultural performance,with general socio-economic conditions and with health conditions of the peopleinvolved.

The information gained may help to set priorities for irrigation and drainage improvements. Itmay also feed a broader discussion on the socio-economic future of Karshi. Those discussionsconcern the possible considerable expansion of the Karshi command area, but also the long-term future of agriculture in Karshi.

8.6 Monitoring water quality of KMC and Karshi drainage system downstream

Water quality measurements should be performed twice a year, during irrigation and off-irrigation season. This would preferably be done in the Talimarjan reservoir or the by-passcanal. Measurements of Amu Darya water quality are performed by Hydromet and can beconsidered a reference for counter check.

Republic of Uzbekistan 12/07/01Ministry of Agriculture and Water ResourcesPro)ect Implementation Unit

Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabilitation Phase I Prolect 109Environmental AssessmentDraft Final Report

A major omission in the monitoring efforts by the irrigation and drainage sector as well asGoscompriroda concerns CDW. Monitoring could be part of the broader CDW management asdealt within the Uzbekistan Drainage Project. CDW monitoring is proposed to be part of theenvironmental management plan for the following three reasons:

- as the institutional measures could indirectly lead to changes in discharge and salt load;- as the result of the rehabilitation activities are directly related to maintaining irrigation

and drainage flows at normal levels, and indirectly to wetland development;- as CDW management in the near / far future strongly requires monitoring now,

CDW monitoring is proposed to be performed at the following 15 locations:

- at two locations in the Yuzny collector;- at two locations in the Sichankul collector;- at two locations in the Kashkadarya river;- directly after the confluence of the Sinchankul with the Yuzny collector;- in lake Sichankul, lake Atchinsk and lake Dengizkul;- before, in and after lake Sultandag in Turkmenistan;- at the current discharge locations to the Amu Darya.

The monitoring may be to a large extent limited to discharge, conductivity and salinitymeasurements at a monthly to quarterly frequency. These can be conducted at low cost. Fewlocations should receive a broad spectrum of analyses, comparable to the regular monitoring ofthe Amu Darya river (see Table 4.3).

Measurements on Amu Darya and KMC/Talimarjan should be made by the same person withthe same equipment. The person in charge should have adequate experience in this field and beable to interpret the measured data in situ. The equipment would preferably consist of aportable instrument.

No sudden changes of water quality are expected to happen; data should be filed and edited forannual reporting and long-term evaluation.

8.7 Further investigations during operation stage

This chapter contains recommendations for further investigation to be conducted independentlyfrom the implementation of the Rehabilitation Project. Issues are addressed that do not needurgent solution but rather have a long term perspective. Issues include those which have adevelopment aspect (utilization of resources) and those which need potential problem solving(erosion; pollution).

8.7.1 Utilization of dredged material for soil amelioration purposes

Two areas of 10 and 2.5 ha near Dustluk, filled with dredged material have been undercultivation with horticultural crops since 1995. The soil types are loamy sand and sandy clay-loam. Good harvests have been taken home. The utilization of dredged material for soilamelioration purposes may therefore be feasible and it is recommended to undertake moredetailed agricultural investigation. In case the feasibility is confirmed it would present a greatpotential to overcome the negative effects of sediment disposal.

Republic of Uzbekistan 12/07/01Ministry of Agriculture and Water ResourcesProject Implementation unit

Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabilitation Phase I Project 1 1 0Environmental AssessmentDraft Final Report

8.7.2 Utilization of Quarry 4 near Talimarjan reservoir for fish production

It is recommended to investigate the feasibility of artificially raising the water table in the quarry(actually the depth is 1.5 m) in order to increase production of barbel fish. In this context, it issuggested to investigate also into the necessity to stabilize the slope in Quarry 4.

8.7.3 River erosion

The issue of river erosion in context with sediment dredging and disposal has been addressed inChapters 3.2.1 and 4.2.1. The Rehabilitation Project provides for river bank revetment at KyzylAyak. In order to provide for a. more scientific and long-term oriented approach to this issue, itis recommended to undertake detailed studies of the river dynamics to investigate into thequestion of cause and effect of water diversion and dredging, by both the Karakum and Karshischemes.

8.7.4 Phenol content of Amu Darya water

It is recommended to launch a (geological) research study in order to determine the source ofthe high phenol content which is known not only for Amu Darya water but also for other rivers.



9 Environmental management plan

9.1 Introduction

The Environmental Management Plan (EMP) for the Karshi Pumping Cascade RehabilitationProject has been formed on the basis of the mitigation and monitoring measures proposedunder the chapters 7 and 8.

The EMP shall be implemented to ensure that whenever sensitive environmental resources orvalues are likely to be affected, that:

Suitable working practices and procedures be adopted and environmental precaution beemployed;Effective environmental protection measures be implemented to prevent avoidable damage;Monitoring procedures be efficient and reduced to project specific parameters.

To this end, the EMP advances methods and systems of management aimed at achievingminimization of negative effects and risks due to execution of construction activities andoperation of project facilities.

In order to guarantee its effectiveness and practicality, the EMP takes into account therequirements of:

- the Operating Department- the Ministry of Agriculture- the scheme contractor and the Supervisor- other interested parties (e.g. Karshi Goscompriroda)- Turkmen administration.

The above is being achieved by consulting such parties during the preparation stage andincorporating relevant comments, ensuring that the final EMP will be a document to which allthe above parties will be committed as they will all have contributed to its formulation.Particular terms and specifications, to be included in the Tender Documents and Bill ofQuantities, need to be elaborated in order to commit the Scheme Contractors to environmentaldue diligence.

Once finalized, the EMP would be implemented from the onset of construction activities. Asbefore, this is best achieved through close cooperation between the environmental team, theengineering team and the scheme contractors (according to the different project stages: design,construction, operation) so that unforeseen environmental impacts or problems which arise canbe dealt with in a practical and environmentally responsible manner.

9.2 Objectives

The general objectives of environmental management for the implementation of the Karshirehabilitation Project and the operation of the Karshi scheme are:

- Implementation of measures to prevent or reduce negative impacts to acceptable levelsor to enhance environmental conditions;



- Implementation of measures to deal with risks that arise during implementation andO&M stages: occupational health and safety, accidents;

- Implementation of measures that help ensuring that the environmental actions are inphase with engineering and other project activities throughout implementation.

- Supervising and monitoring significant issues during installation and operation.

From these general objectives the environmental management issues and initiatives are derivedTable 9. 1.

Table 9.1 Environmental management issues and initiative with reference to project stage

Preparation Stage: Final Design

5 Incorporation of environmental qualityobjectives in Design

0 Incorporation of environmental preventionand mitigation measures in Design

D Incorporation of environmentally soundpractices in Technical Specifications

Implementation Stage: Implementation Stage:Contractor's environmental due diligence Construction supervision

0 Management of waste D Verification of environmentalmanagement plans

0 Control of noise emissions0 Verification of environmental sound

0 Control of pollution hazards practices

D Occupational health and safety a Surveillance of legal issues

D Regulation of traffic

D Public consultation: police department &Goskompriroda

O & M Stage: 0 & M Stage:Operator's environmental due diligence environmental vigilance

U Management of waste 0 Verification of EMP implementation

U Control of pollution incidents 0 Control of monitoring program

U Occupational health and safety 0 Control of external audits

Republic of Uzbekisten 12/08/01Ministy of Agriculture and Water ResourcesProject Implementation Unit


0 External audits

9.3 Project summary

A project summary has been given in Chapter 3, while a short note has been incorporated inthe Executive Summary.

9.4 Mitigation and monitoring summary

Both the mitigation plan and monitoring plan have been elaborated upon in the previouschapters. Table 9.2. provides a summary including:

- measures and activities;- agencies proposed to be responsible;- cost for measures and monitoring.

9.5 General terms and specifications of the EMP

9.5.1 General terms

During preparation stage for project implementation it is preferred to communicate withTurkmen administration and Karshi Goskompriroda in order to determine the:

- The process for improving irrigation and drainage along the KMC from PK 63 to 195;- legal situation in view of the issue with diesel dredgers;- technical and institutional issues of design, implementation and management of Water

Protection Zone of Talimarjan reservoir.

During implementaton stage of the KPC Rehabilitation the most significant potential risks andhazards are those related to collection and safe disposal of residues and dismantled material,inappropriate construction/installation techniques and practices. Adverse environmental impactscan occur as a result of soil and ground water pollution (fuel and oil spills), and unfavourablehealth and safety situations.

Environmental management provisions shall be implemented from the onset of constructionactivities. This shall be best achieved through close cooperation between the Supervisor andthe Contractor(s) so that unforeseen environmental impacts or problems that arise can be dealtwith in a practical and environmentally responsible manner.

Supervisor and Contractor(s) shall have sufficient environmental capacity among their staff sothat early action can be taken where it is seen that unnecessary or unforeseen environmentaldamage is occurring or would otherwise occur.



During O&M stage, irrespectively of the Rehabilitation Project some longer term monitoringshall be executed. A detailed analysis of measured data shall be performed so that action canbe taken where values exceed admissible levels or unforeseen development occurs.

Further investigation shall be conducted independently from the implementation of theRehabilitation Project, addressing some issues that do not need urgent solution but rather havea long term perspective. They include those which have a development aspect (utilization ofresources) and those which need potential problem solving (erosion; pollution).

Coordination between Turkmen and Uzbek authorities will be required in order to jointly solvingthe problem of high ground water level, water logging and salinisation in the Turkmen irrigationareas.

Protection of the habitats and management of the Water Protection Zone around Talimarjanreservoir would require particular attention by the Ministry and cooperation with KarshiGoskompriroda. A special fund would have to be made available to cover the cost for the firststep of this undertaking.

9.5.2 Specifications

The specifications laid down in the following sections shall guide Designers, Contractors,Suppliers, Supervisor and the Authorities, and more specifically those parties specified under"Responsibility", in their obligation to ensure that legal environmental requirements are met andthat environmental precaution be employed with the effect to prevent environmental damage.

The specifications present a first approximation prepared on basis of the Feasibility Report. Thefinal specifications, as well as the detailed or final design of the mitigation measures, shall beelaborated once the Final Design of the Rehabilitation Project is available and updated:

- in the course of the different project stages (preparation, implementation, O&M)- taking into account the changing of conditions due to the Project itself, the

environment and the regulations

Future versions of the specifications would also include terms to be incorporated into theTender Documents and the Bill of Quantities.

Preparation stage

Legal Requirements

Background: Verification of Uzbek and Turkmen environmental regulations.

Requirements: All parties involved in Preparation, Implementation, Operation and Maintenanceof Karshi Rehabilitation shall check national environmental regulations.

Responsibility: PIU, Consultant

Implementation phase



Contractor's Environmental Due Diligence

Background: Negligence of environmental precaution during execution of construction andinstallation activities can result in unnecessary pollution incidents and accidents.

Requirements: Implementation of appropriate procedures and practices. To this end,presentation to the Supervisor of plans to:

- Handling of hazardous substances (e.g. fuel, lubricants, dismantled material);- Manage waste (reduction, collection, disposal)for concrete and equipment;- Management of pollution incidents;- Protect employees against accidents; occupational health and safety;- Guidelines for heavy traffic.

No action shall be performed without prior consent of the Supervisor.Nomination to the Supervisor of a person out of the Contractor(s)' staff who shall be directlyresponsible for general environmental management during execution of construction andinstallation activities and, more specifically for implementation of the four plans.Records of environmental activities shall be kept and incorporated into the Contractor's monthlyreport.

Responsibility: Contractor(s).

Environmental Supervision

Background: Cooperative supervision of implementation activities is a fundamental of goodenvironmental practice.

Requirements:- Due evidence shall be given to PIU that sufficient environmental expertise is available

in the Supervisor's team;- Certification or rejection of the plans presented by the Contractor(s) (see above);- Supervision of construction/installation and, if required, issue of compliance orders.

Responsibility: Supervisor.

O&M stage

Operator's Environmental Due Diligence

Background: Negligence of environmental precaution during execution of O&M activities canresult in unnecessary pollution incidents and accidents.Requirements: Implementation of appropriate procedures and practices. To this end,presentation to the Environmental Agency of plans to:

- Deal with hazardous substances (e.g. at transformer stations, depots, workshops)- Manage waste (stations, depots, workshops);- Protect employees against accidents (e.g. operation of the system; maintenance of

transformers; depots, workshops);- Maintenance of sanitary facilities.

Nomination to the Environmental Agency of a person out of the Operator's staff who shall bedirectly responsible for general environmental management (good housekeeping) and, morespecifically for the implementation of the plans.



Responsibility: Operation Department.

Environmental Auditing

Background: Securing good environmental procedures and practices.

Requirements: In order to control the proper implementation of environmental managementplan and monitoring program, external audits shall be done by an independent consultant, and ifnecessary, compliance orders shall be issued.

Responsibility: PIU for technical installations and Goskompriroda for ecological issues.

9.6 Institutional setting

9.6.1 Institutional setting of the Operating Department of KMC

Environmental care system

It is strongly recommended to use the rehabilitation project to set up a simple environmentalcare system within the Operating Department of KMC (ODKMC). This environmental caresystem is meant to deal actively with environmental issues that pertain directly to and are theresponsibility of the ODKMC. Such a system (a set of procedures, standards, measures,professional capacity) is proposed to be established inside the ODKMC organization and workfor the ODKMC organization.

Most of the environmental issues pertaining to the KMC and the ODKMC belong to 'goodhousekeeping practices' or 'due diligence': procedures on operational and tactical level. Thegood housekeeping practices emphasize 'doing the things right in the first place'. For thesematters, proper procedures, clear responsibilities, appropriate facilities and equipment,awareness, skills and motivation form the major ingredient. Without these good housekeepingpractices in place, complied with and enforced, the negative environmental impacts as listed inChapter 6 may occur.

A couple of other environmental issues with regard to KMC have more strategic nature (e.g.protection of water bodies). For these matters, policies, instruments and so on have to bedeveloped and implemented in order to move towards or safeguard the desired situation.

Environmental Management Unit (EMU)

In order to implement environmental measures and perform environmental management withinODKMC, professional environmental capacity is required. Currently, within ODKMC, apart froma general management responsibility there is no professional officer or agency in charge of'environment'. A professionally staffed (small) Environmental Management Unit (EMU) shouldform the cornerstone of the simple environmental care system of ODKMC. This EMU shouldbecome a permanent unit within the structure of ODKMC, not be (part of) a local ProjectImplementation Unit. The reasons for this are:



- Continuity. A PIU is set up especially for the project and for the duration of the project.Here, EMU has a considerable number of permanent tasks, continuing after completionof the project.

- The EMU should be ODKMC's. As a PIU, it may be too much regarded as a temporarilystructure attached to the ODKMC and being the local wing of the central level PIU.However, it is the intention to internalize 'environment' within ODKMC. Hence, fromthe very first moment, the EMU should be a unit for, of and within ODKMC, directlywithin the management responsibilities of ODKMC.

- A PIU has often many administrative tasks and responsibilities. The thrust of the EMUis different: it should primarily have professional tasks and responsibilities.

- Besides the above-mentioned reasons of principle, a practical reason is that there aregovernmental regulations with regard to the number of staff of a PIU that may limit thepossibility of having environmental professionals in the local PIU.

Position of the EMU

The EMU should have advisory and functional tasks with regard to all components andactivities of KMC. These include physical structures such as the intake, the pumping stations,the transmission channel(s), the Talimarjan Reservoir, access roads as well as protection zones.Within the organization structure of ODKMC the EMU should be in the head office/managementstructure, reporting directly - or alternatively with a very short indirect reporting line - to thehead of ODKMC. (A position more or less similar to that of the Health and Safety Departmentmay be considered adequate).

Manpower

The EMU staff should cover the professional fields of civil engineering, natural environment andhydrology. Additionally, the staff should have experience and know-how on among other thingscommunication, designing work procedures, supervisory skills, environmental administrationand legislation.

Staffing with three professionals that combine the above mentioned expertise and experienceappears appropriate. (E.g. 1 civil engineer, 1 ecologist, 1 institutional/organizational expert).The desired expertise and experience may not be present during the start, but can be developedduring project implementation.

Tasks and responsibilities

The EMU will be the initiator, facilitator and evaluator concerning practical implementation ofenvironmental management measures in and around ODKMC.Its tasks will include, but will not be limited to, the following:

- Increase environmental awareness and promote an active environmental attitude withinthe ODKMC organization.

- Develop and implement environmental protection and promotion measures- Assist the other organizational units of ODKMC with the implementation of

environmental management measures.- Train and coach staff of ODKMC with regard to environmental (management) issues.



- Coach and supervise construction, rehabilitation and maintenance works with regard toenvironmental concerns.

- Monitor and evaluate ODKMC's environmental management measures, particularly theeffectiveness and efficiency. Propose additional measures if deemed necessary ordesirable.

- Link environmental management with health and labor safety. Develop joint actionplans and measures on environment, health and safety.

- Liaison with other governmental and professional organizations with regard toenvironmental management. Tap and mobilise relevant know-how and expertise fromthese organisations and make this available for ODKMC. Represent on working level(functional links) the ODKMC on environmental issues.

Mandate

The EMU has an advisory function to the management of ODKMC as well as functional links tothe organisational units of ODKMC. Concerning supervision of works, the powers of the EMUneed to be specified in more detail (to prevent conflicts with other supervisory activities andresponsibilities).

Starting up

ODKMC has no experience with an EMU. The rehabilitation project will provide an excellentopportunity to get the EMU off the ground. The project's activities will provide ample reasonand opportunity to start implementing the EMU tasks. The rehabilitation project will offerinteresting opportunities as well as professional challenges and some prestige for the personsinvolved in the project. EMU staff can be actively involved in coaching and supervising of therehabilitation activities. Training on-the-job can take place through the presence of theconsultancy firm/agency in change of supervision. Such capacity building need to be specifiedin the Terms of Reference for the supervision contract. To use this opportunity effectively, theEMU should be established and staffed before the construction activities commence.

Environmentally sound pracices and standards

Environmentally sound practices and standards are part and parcel of an environmental caresystem. With regard to the rehabilitation project, the suppliers and contractors can be invited orforced to come up or to comply with certain environmentally sound practices and standards.This may form part of the contract and can be laid down in technical specifications, proceduresto be complied with, tender documents and so on.

9.6.2 Institutional setting beyond Karshi

The Karshi rehabilitation project is a real challenge as a pilot project on implementingenvironmental management at field level. This means: finding and demonstrating appropriatestructures, mechanisms and approaches.

Interest and support from higher levels is important. In this respect, it is vital to haveconductive professional communication structures and links with e.g. oblast level administrationand its agencies, the Ministry of Agriculture and Water Resources, Goscompriroda. Such linksand support structures aim at provision of professional support to the EMU and ODKMC ingeneral as well as learning from and disseminating the field experiences.



The Ministry of Agriculture and Water Resources may for this purpose consider to give moreattention and build environmental management capacity in its head quarters in Tashkent. Thismay be done by e.g. establishing an environmental cell, unit of task force or, alternatively,broadening the function of the monitoring units with the tasks of provision of practical support,advising and evaluation of policies and practices. Such a unit should not only support, followand learn from 'Karshi', but work for the whole Ministry and the activities all over the country.The environmental cell in the Ministry should have functional links with EMUs-like organizationsin the field as well as professional links with other external agencies, particularlyGoscompriroda. By having such an environmental cell in the Ministry, the Karshi project can besupported, but also the Karshi project can have its impacts for the Ministry and the sector thatreach far beyond Karshi.

9.7 Training plan

Without pretensions to present here a complete training program, some training measures arerecommended to equip the involved staff and officials with a package of awareness, knowledgeand skills on environmental management. These training measures will be outlined hereunderand in Annex E.

With regard to training needs and training, there is a clear distinction between:

- persons that should actually perform environmental management activities in directrelation with the project and the operation of the cascade.

- persons that in general need to support environmental management activities.

The first group will, apart from their professional background, to be equipped with thenecessary knowledge and skills to act, to do the jobs as set out for them. This first groupconsists of e.g. the EMU staff and field supervisors. The second ground will need to be madeaware of and provided with basic knowledge on environmental management with regard to thesector and the project. This second group consists of higher management and officials that willneed to give managerial and professional support to the project and the cascade operations. Forthis second group, some training outlines are presented in Annex E. These training measuresare meant to provide basic information on the project and environmental management.

The first group - the persons that will be highly involved in implementation of environmentalmanagement - will need a more in-depth and dedicated package. Apart from some classroomtraining, particularly training-on-the-job and coaching is foreseen. Training subjects include e.g.:

- supervisory procedures and skills- communication skills (written and oral, for promoting, reporting)- task analyses and job design- drafting work instructions, procedures.

The consultants responsible for supervision of the rehabilitation works can either by smallclassroom sessions or through on-the-job training/coaching provide much of this training.



Table 9.3 Summary Environmental Management Plan activities for Phase 1 ProjectStage / Environmental Mitigation measure Responsibili Extra Monitoring measure Responsibilit Costactivity impact (some for full scale ty environmental y (US$)

rehabilitation project) cost (US$) forPhase I . . .

Rehabilitation stage:Repair of No Proper disposal Contractor 0 (*) (*) (*)canal lining requiredPumping Birds Repair pumping Contractor 0 (*) (*) (*)stations excrements stations windowsPumping Sanitary Improvement Contractor Small (0.01 (*) (*) (*)stations, hazards sanitary conditions million ?)buildingsDredging Possible abuse Check if diesel MAWR - Limited (0.1 (*) (*)

of Turkmen dredgers still may PlU million ?)law; possible exist; takepollution environmental care

measures to preventpollution _ ___

River bank Bank erosion Study of river MAWR - 0 (*) (*) (*)revet-ment dynamics in case of PIUon left bank full scale(postponed to rehabilitation projectfull scalerehabilitationproject)

Drainage Too limited Study and control Turkmen 0() (*) (*)

system along (positive) irrigation & drainage authorities,KMC effect in Turkmenistan contact by groundwater level Turkmen


Karshi Ptumping Cascade Rehabilitation Phase I Project 1 21Environmental AssessrnentDraft Final Report

(postponed to MAWR and waterlogging authorities ?full scalerehabilitationproject)Unfinished Communicatio Completion (not in MAWR - 0(*i (*)road bridge n, accidents Phase I, possibly in PIUPK63 full scale project)(postponed tofull scalerehabilitationproject) _.-

Construction Environmental Interntal Contractor 0.01 million Environmental due EMU 0.05activities hazards environmental and annually diligence million

(various) management supervising annuallyguidelines Engineer

Talimardjan Increased bio- Vegetation and bio- EMU, 0.4 million + Nature preservation EMU and/or (seeenvironmenta diversity physical revetment Goscomprir 0.01 million around Talimardjan Goscompriro O&M)I protection in phases according oda annually da(start up in to budget (Phase IPhase I) 25% ?)O&M stageO&M of Environmental Internal (KPC) Operator 0 Environmental due EMU 0.05cascade hazards environmental MAWR diligence million

(various) management annually.____________ guidelines

Change in Change CDW Integrated water Operator 0 (in project) Soil salinity Currently by 0water flow salinity and management, MAWR (combined with MAWR

discharge through institutional groundwater level(long term) support and salinity); UzGI GIS 0.01

land abandonment, unit million/y___ __ ___ _ __ ___ __ _____ _ __ _socio-economic, UzGI 0.02


Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabilitation Phase I Project 122Environ.mental AssessmentDraft Final Report

I I I J I I lakes and CDW Drainage milion/y

__quality department

Stage / Environmental Mitigation measure Responsibili Extra Monitoring measure Responsibilit Costactivity impact ty environmental y (US$)

.__ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ co st (U S $)Institutional Change in Through institutional GoU 0 (in project) (see change in water (see change (seeand market irrigation/ project flows) in water changereform drainage/ flows) in water(scenario C) agricultural flows)

practicesEMU support Improved EMP Training and support PIU US$ 0.03 m/y Monitoring missions World Bank ?(e.g. for 3 implemention by local and US$ 0.15 m/yyears) international

consultantsTotal US$ 0.5 million US$ 0.1indicative + 0.2 m/y m/y +cost: 0.2 m/y

forconsultancy

.________ _ .__ .__ .. __ _support

(*): see monitoring part of "Construction activities"

Republic of Uzbekistan 12/08/01Ministry of Agriculture and Water RasourcesProject Implementation Unit

Kanshi Pumping Ciacade RdmbitLabon Phase I Project 124Envlromenetal AessnmewDrafl Fmal Report

Appendix A Terms of Reference

REPUBLIC OF UZBEKSITANKARSHI PUMPING CASCADE REHABILITATION PHASE- PROJECT

Terms of Reference for the Environmental Assessment'

1. THE PROPOSED PROJECT

The Karshi irrigation scheme is situated on an elevated plateau on the right bank ofthe Amu Darya. The present irrigated area amounts to 400,000 hectares. A minorpart of the area has been irrigated by gravity for hundreds of years. This part islocated in the former delta of the Kashkadarya river which discharged in past timesinto the Amu Darya. Large scale extension of the area started in 1973 with theconstruction of the Karshi Main Canal. The head part of this canal runs from theAmu Darya to the irrigated areas in Kashkadarya Oblast through 70 km of mainlydesert lands. Along its course the water is lifted by a series of seven pumpingstations2. The capacity of the canal is 175 m3/sec. The total lift to the beginning ofthe main irrigation canals amounts to 109 m (Miriskhor Canal) and 132 m (KarshiMain Canal). The seventh pumping station provides an additional lift to 159 m intothe Talimardjan storage reservoir where water is stored to provide for fluctuations indemand. More than 95% of the pumped water is used for irrigation. The remaining5% is used for industrial purposes and domestic water supply. The waters of theKashkadarya river have been increasingly used for irrigation outside the Karshiirrigation scheme. At present this river contributes approximately 10 % to the watersupply of the Karshi irrigation scheme.

Several elements of the pumping cascade are in urgent need of rehabilitation andimprovement, including the river intake, the dredging capacity and operations,pumps, motors and ancillary mechanical and electrical equipment, discharge pipes,monitoring and communication systems, canal lining and a control structure. Themain irrigation network in the command area of the pumping cascade is still in afairly good condition but operations are not efficient due to the lack of budget and

t This TOR is prepared by the Project Implementation Unit2 The river intake and the first six pumnpmg stations are situated on TuTkmen tenitory. During the planningstages of the pumping cascade, it was foreseen that a command area of some 30,000 hectares inTurkmenistan would be irgated by water from the pumping cascade. Although Turkmenistan is steadilyincreasing the imgation area adjacent to the pumping cascade, the total se of the command area onTurkmen teritory is still within the norms stipulated in bilateral aganents between the Govermments ofUzbekistan and Turkmenistan. These agreements also regulate the payments by Uzbekistan for the lease ofthe land which is occupied by the cascade.RepubIi of Uckit 12/08/01Minisy of Aguaio und War ReaoureProject Implantijcn Unit

karshi Pumping Cacade Rehabilnstion Phasc I Project 1 2sEnviro enmtal AssmsrnentDrafi Fnal Report

deficiencies in flow monitoring, rigid irrigation scheduling, and outdated dataprocessing and communications systems.

There are a number of government institutions with responsibilities for managementand operation and maintenance (O&M) of the hydraulic infrastructure of the Karshiirrigation system, such as the Karshi Board for the Operation of the Karshi PumpingStations Cascade (KOISMB), the Kashkadarya Oblast Irrigation System ManagementBoard, the Irrigation and Drainage Organizations at Rayon level, the HydrogeologicalMeliorative Expedition Department responsible for the O&M of the collector drainagesystem at Oblast level, and organizations in charge of irrigation and drainage at farmlevel. During the last several years these government institutions have not been ableto operate and maintain the irrigation and drainage infrastructure adequately due toinsufficient funding for O&M and the loss of many of their most qualified staff.

The development objective of the project is to increase the reliability, efficiency andsustainability of pumped water supply from the Amu Darya to the command area inthe Kashkadarya Oblast which is inhabited by 1.5 million people who depend on thiswater source for their livelihood, employment, income and to a large extent, fortheir domestic and industrial water.

This objective would be achieved through: (a) rehabilitation and efficiencyimprovements of the most critical components of the pumping cascade and (b)initiating the creation of sustainable water management institutions in the Karshiirrigation command which would be operated on commercial principles and sellwater to water users.

The project would constitute the first phase of a longer-term program for therehabilitation of the pumping cascade and improvement of operation andmaintenance (O&M) of the cascade as well as the main irrigation system in theKarshi command area. The nature and high cost of full rehabilitation require aphased implementation approach because: (a) the costs for rehabilitating thecascade are high (possibly more than US$ 200 million); and (b) the developmentand strengthening of irrigation management organizations is a difficult process thatmay take a number of years to fully implement.

Further background information on the irrigated agricultural sector in Uzbekistan andthe proposed project is provided in various reports and notes which are available withthe PIU, the World Bank office, EU-Tacis, and research institutes in Tashkent. Theseinclude the recently completed national irrigation and drainage sector strategy study(Ministry of Agriculture and Water Resources, MAWR); the Project Concept Documentof the Karshi PCRP and a technical note on the sustainability of irrigation schemesdepending on large pumping lifts (Wortd Bank); the first preparatory report of theinstitutional development component of the Karshi PCRP (PIU); the technical andenvironmental reports of the first two preparatory phases of the Uzbekistan DrainageProject (PIU); the Water Use and Farm Management Survey (WUFMAS) for theagricultural years in the period 1996 to 1999 (EU-Tacis); the farm surveys conducted

Rcpdblo ef Uzbeki 12/0V01Mi" ofdApwru wd WacrRowoPriaot I1pa hA ia Uit

Karahi Punpng Cascade Rchabilitation Phase I Project 126Environmental AssessmentDraft Fmnal Report

for the preparation of the World Bank supported RESP project; and various othernotes.

2. OBJECTIVES

The project requires an environmental assessment according to the World BankOperational Policies (OP 4.01, 1999). The environmental category of the proposedproject is B. The reason of this category rating is that the works concern mostly therehabilitation of pumping stations and pipelines. Application of these policies would inprinciple require a sector assessment, an assessment of the institutional frameworkand the preparation of an environmental management plan. In this respect extensiveuse will be made of the activities and results in the framework of the UzbekistanDrainage Project (UDP).

The objectives of the Environmental Assessment (EA) are:

- to review the state of the environment as an input of the decision makingprocess;

- to ensure that environmental concerns are recognised at an early stage and aretaken into account in the identification and consideration of projectalternatives, selection, detailed project planning and design;

- to identify ways of environmentally improving the project by preventing,minimising, mitigating or compensating any adverse impacts.

The consultant should consider that:

- the sector has already been reviewed by the EA of the UDP;- the project will be only implemented under "scenario C type of conditions";

scenario C has been developed within the UDP and comprises high ratedevelopments with respect to agricultural reforms, irrigation managementreforms, and investments;

- major adverse impacts from the project are not expected as the project aims atthe rehabilitation of existing infrastructure, a more efficient operation of thepumping cascade, and a more efficient use of the pumped water in thecommand area of the pumping station, which would result in reduction ofwater diverted from the Amu Darya.

In order to indicate the impact from the project, the with project and without projectsituation will be evaluated both under scenario C conditions (see above). Theseconditions will be defined by the consultants in cooperation with the consultantsteams which are, in parallel, preparing the infrastructure rehabilitation and theinstitutional development component of the project and the team which is executing asocial assessment in the project area. The environmental concems according to theWB guidelines for EA refer to both:

Rqbip,li eMAUjoid 12tSOUOIMinitry of Agricu= nd WicrRaRoommiProject Implmcon Unit

karshi Pumpmg Cascde Rdiabilhation Phase I Project 127EmnirorminstA AsmetDrafl hmal Report

impacts generated, either during implementation or operation, by the projectitself;

- impacts related to but not directly generated (thus external to) by the project.

3. MAIN ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

In order to screen all potential impacts and identify the main environmental issues, amethodology was developed during the Environmental Assessment of the UDP.Impacts can be expected along the sequence: - intervention site - irrigated area -collector drain - sink - collector drain - Amu Darya - irrigation canal - irrigation areadownstream - Amu Darya or Aral Sea. For all locations, impacts may concern water,land and biology resources and anthropogenic infrastructure. Impacts can bedistinguished that are either generated by (during or after implementation) or related tothe project.

Anticipated environmental issues generated by the project during implementation:

Environmentally sound removal and re-use and/or disposal of elements removedfrom the pumping station installations. These elements may contain lubricants,oil and different types of materials (e.g. asbestos). Depending on the type ofmaterial as well as its state, these materials can be re-used for other purposesor disposed off at sites without any harmful effects for humans andenvironment.

During the destruction and installation works leakage's may occur of all kindsof oil products. These leakage's should be minimised as much as possible andmitigated in case of any excessive leakage with potential harm for humans andenvironment. Also other materials (waste metal, paints, anti corrosion coatings,etc.) may be released to the environment and thus need careful considerationwith respect to disposal.

The dredging regime at the canal intake may have positive and negativeenvironmental impacts. Impacts may concern securities for proper intakeconditions, change of river meandering in case of uncontrolled disposal ofsludge back into the river, difficulties for river transport for the same reason,change of embankment stability by uncontrolled disposal of sludge, etc.

Remodelling of the canal lining and the rehabilitation of the pumping stationsrequire adjustments of the water supply regime from the pumping stations.This very much depends on the timing and methodologies of the actualexecution works. As the canal lining has strongly deteriorated along certaincanal stretches, temporary removal of the water pressure might induce collapseof the canal walls. There might be a risk for the safety of local workers.

Rqxpoi of UAistu 12/01/01Miniay of Agriu1t and Wter ReaKaP^< ihp1aaautiu Uit

Knshi Pumping Caccadc Rehabilitaion Ph2sc I Project 128Envircentai ALsessmes tDraf Final Report

- Temporary adjustments of the water supply regime may have strong effectstowards the irrigation schemes, especially during the growing season.Reduction of leaching during the leaching period may result in temporarysalinisation of lands.

To what extent fish migration, is affected by the pumps and to what extent fishor fish fry may find its way upstream through the turbines is not known.Rehabilitation works may have an impact on this. Previously the creation ofpassageways for fish has been discussed, which can be considered beyond thescope of this project. During operation some attention can be given to fishprotection.

Anticipated environmental issues generated by the project after implementation:

Energy savings by higher pumping efficiencies and higher irrigation efficienciesby improved water management are considered important environmentalbenefits;

Considerable reductions in water diversion from the Amu Darya have beencalculated for the Scenario C without and with the project. The impacts aretwofold: substantial increase of the Amu Darya discharge and substantialdecrease of the irrigation and drainage duties. Apart from the impact toagriculture, the environmental impacts are considered substantial in a mainlypositive sense. Substantial extra volumes of water may be utilised fordownstream purposes. These purposes concern irrigation, drinking, wetlanddevelopment, fisheries, etc. Downstream mixing with drainage waterdischarges result in reduction of the salinity levels, which can be considered anadditional benefit for the downstream users and purposes as well.

Abandonment of marginal land due to salinisation of e.g. local depressions isexpected to proceed in the Karshi irrigation scheme. Income of farmers in theseareas has decreased to such levels that agricultural is not feasible anymore.Other lands or even other jobs should be found to obtain a reasonable way ofliving. The project is expected to mitigate these developments to some extentby the improvement of l&D management in the command area.

The Yuzni Collector collects and discharges most of the drainage water fromKarshi irrigation scheme. The discharge might be reduced in the order ofmagnitude of 0.5 km3 and even more under the without project Scenario Cconditions. This implies that a major part of the drainage volume discharged tothe Amu Darya now will diminish, certainly in case of the without projectsituation. In addition also the salt mobilisation in the subsoil is expected todecrease along with the reduction of drainage volume resulting in a decrease ofthe salinity levels. The consequence is twofold: additional reduction in AmuDarya salinity and less pressure on the desert sinks.

Rpubhlio ofU2bdm 12/08/01Mg8try of(A#icWure ad Wter RourcaPnje Iqimpleme h

Karshi Pumpig CCSdc Rchabilitation Phsc I Project 129Envronmmtal AssesmentDrafl Final Repon

- With the above advantages, more flexibility can be gained for proper watermanagement in and around the Karshi irrigation scheme in general and of morein specific management of desert sinks for wetland development on one handand for evaporation on the other hand. More emphasis could be oriented toincrease of biodiversity in Karshi and Bukhara (as well as in Karakalpakstan) ascompensation measure for the rapid decrease in biodiversity in and around theAral Sea.

The downstream water quantity and quality conditions improve as a result ofScenario C developments with and certainly without the project. As said, thiswould benefit irrigation, drinking, wetland development, fisheries, etc. In theUDP these benefits are considered quite limited under the presentcircumstances (order of magnitude percents of the investment cost). If benefitscan be arranged to a maximum extent, with sufficient physical and economicinfrastructure (which also requires substantial investments), then theperspective of these measures will certainly change.

Within the current time horizon the without and with project benefits in thedownstream regions are considered limited. The without project alternativeand certainly a further phasing out of the Karshi irrigation scheme mayincreasingly generate benefits downstream. However, it probably can notoutweigh the cost and social disruption for any forced dislocation of people inKarshi.

The Aral Sea conditions are such that impacts from measures as indicatedabove towards the Aral Sea can be neglected.

Anticipated environmental issues not generated by the project:

All impacts indicated above as a result of Scenario C developments may be consideredoutside the direct influence of the project. A reduction of these impacts is generatedby the project. However, some negative environmental impacts are not generated butare quite interdinked with the project interventions and its consequences and results.These main issues are:

Water from Karshi Main Canal is pumped to agricultural land on the Turkmenterritories. Part of this irrigation water and the drainage water returns to nearthe KMC. Here it creates waterlogging along certain stretches of the canal.This is said the reason for canal lining deterioration. Before lining improvementtakes place, the source of the problem should be solved. The project directorindicates the construction of a syphon under the canal to facilitate smoothdisposal (= environmental mitigation measure). Drainage canals may berequired as well.

The social issues with respect to land abandonment in the Karshi irrigationscheme. Part of the local farmers must eventually find other jobs.

Rcpublic afUzbekstm 12V0O101M_nWy of Agouhur ud WaResRaouesPrjou 1mplmWtron Unit

KIrhi Pumping Cowade Rehabilitation Phasw I Project 130Envnoimatal AssmentDraft Ftnal Report

- The discharge of domestic wastewater in the drainage canals and sometimeseven in the irrigation canals will affect the water quality in case the dischargevolumes change. Higher contamination levels are expected in collector drainsand desert sinks along with a reduction of water diversion from the AmuDarya. As the pollution load will not change in Karshi the downstream pollutionlevels in the river remain more or less the same due to dilution in a largerquantity of Amu Darya water.

- The level of residues from fertilisers and pesticides may change (probablyhigher) in the development scenario C. The impact from the project might belimited.

4. SCOPE OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT

The consultant in co-operation and consultation with the various sectors of theGovernment and others involved, will conduct an project environmental assessmentresulting in a EA report which will be presented for review by the State Committeefor Nature Protection and subsequently by the World Bank. The scope of therequired activities is indicated below.

a. Review data {including GIS and RS) and environmental conditions

An abundant set of base line data has been collected under the technical andenvironmental studies of the UDP. A large part of data is available in the GIS/data baseor in the form of remote sensing images, which are also digitally available. RS imagesare or will be available for the periods 1987/1989 and 1997/1998 both based onLandsat imagery.

Summarise the general environmental conditions in view of the project interventions,using the information and summaries of previous activities and projects.

b. Review the Karshi PCRP

Describe the project as identified in the Project Concept Document and the firstreports of the Technical Consultant of the Karshi PCRP. The main implementationcharacteristics but also the methodologies as far as available and identified will beincorporated. The main items are:

- replacement of pumps and associated equipment;- repair of pumps and associated equipment;- rehabilitation of the intake and the canal lining;- adjustment of the dredging regime;- improved water management through the institutional development

component.

c. Summanse the institutional, legal and policy framework

Republic of Uzbdk 12Y'OS/OIMity of Aricultur and WgerRomumProjct lmp1mtscu Unit

Kaw-di PmpmgCucade Rtabihluaion Phse I Project 131Enviromn0tal AssmeitDraft Final Repot

Phase II of the Environmental Assessment for the UDP included a preliminary review ofthis framework. The institutional setting of the environmental sector has also beenreviewed by a TA project of the ADB (1997/1998). The institutional, legal and policyframework for the l&D subsector has been reviewed and described by the consultantsteam which is preparing the institutional component of the Karshi PCRP.

In the current EA reference will be made to reports and results of the mentionedactivities. Prepare a brief summary of the framework to be included in the EA report.This would form the basis for the institutional part of the Environmental ManagementPlan (EMP).

d. Review and improve development scenario C

Scenario C has been developed under the UDP and represents the high-leveldevelopment scenario against which drainage intervention options have beenevaluated. Under this scenario it is assumed that during the next 30 years:

- policy reforms will be implemented at a relative fast pace;- a realistic system of irrigation and drainage water charges to finance the O&M

of the inter farm irrigation and drainage system;- relative high investments will be made for the rehabilitation and improvement

of the irrigation and drainage infrastructure, including in-field irrigation anddrainage facilities;

- increased availability of O&M budget;- more efficient irrigation practices.

Improve and further specify this scenario in consultation with: (i) the MAWR and themain stakeholders in the field and (iil the consultants teams which are, in parallel,preparing the infrastructure rehabilitation and the institutional development componentof the proposed project, and the team which is executing a social assessment in theproject area.

Review the expected environmental changes based on available data and availableanalyses of the UDP (both Technical and Environmental study). Focus on changes inwater quantity and water quality and describe related impacts.

e. Identify and describe environmnental issues

Elaborate on the identification and description of environmental issues as startedalready in the previous chapter. Use and mention figures that have been used for andreported in the UDP studies.

Re-select the key environmental issues, which need further analyses to determine itsimpact to the various sectors of the environment. Preliminary key environmental issuesare the local environmental conditions at the intervention sites, the social conditions inKarshi irrigation scheme, the water quality (salinity) changes in the Amu Darya andrelated impacts and the related waterlogging issues near KMC.

Rpub i iafUzbki. 12/08/01Miuhizhy of Aginrltr md Wgtr Rm,romP}mpbvt b*k_a31fIm Unit

Kianhi Pumptng Caacade Rehabititation Phasw I Projeot 132Environmctal AwasamenlDraft Final Report

f. Analyse the key environmental issues

Local environmental conditions at intervention sitesDetermine the specific potential environmental problems that might occur duringintervention at the project sites. Make an inventory of hazardous materials whichmight be released / disposed off and hazardous materials used for works. With respectto sedimentation near the intakes as well as the dredging regime, aerial photographs(riverbed characteristics, embankment status) from different periods can be evaluatedfor a brief assessment of this issue. Sample and analyse the sediment quality tosupport review sound environmental disposal.

Social conditions with respect to land abandonmentPredict the location of future highly saline lands in Karshi and estimate the number ofpotentially affected people.

Water quantity and quality changes in the Amu DaryaPredict with model simulation as conducted in phase 11 of the EA, the water dischargevolumes and salinity for various irrigation canals, drainage canals, sinks and the AmuDarya. Assess critical issues, which need attention or monitoring. Evaluate the impactof the proposed project on the regional water flow and water quality balance.

Waterlogging near KMC.Review the waterlogging problems near the canal. Use remote sensing and aerialphotographs to determine the extent and the trends in waterlogging progress. Reviewthe documents which govem the expansion of irrigated area adjacent to the cascadeon Turkmen territory. Determine to the extent possible if the project itself fullymitigates the problems along the canal. Propose different alternatives for drainagewater disposal along the KMC on Turkmen territory.

Analyse any additional key issues as far as identified as serious during the assessmentprocess.

g. Prepare an environmental mitigation plan

The key environmental issues which need monitoring rather than specific clear setmeasures. The new EA guidelines of the World Bank anticipate for rehabilitationprojects, that in addition to possible minor mitigation measures for project impacts,special focus will be put on already existing key environmental problems. The mainenvironmental issue clearly developing under scenario C and partially reduced againunder the project concerns the land abandoning and related social problems.

Local environmental condition at intervention sitesPrepare simple environmental operation procedures for local environmental protectionat sites, for sound re-use or disposal of materials, for environmentally sound dredging,for developing water supply scheme adjustments during implementation, etc. Theprocedures should be practical to implement and to monitor.

RcIiUo of V7ck 12/OVOIMini&y edAgriawk m*d Wict RunrPI' bn1anmatian Unit

Karslu Pumping Cascade Rdeabilitation Phase I Project 133Environmental AssesmentDrafl Final Report

Social conditions in relation to land abandonmentAs the proposed project is aimed at improving the management and O&M of thepumping cascade (which may collapse without the project), resettlement of majorparts of the population in the command area in Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan would beprevented. However, the ongoing and accelerated economic and agricultural reformsunder Scenario C development may lead to contraction of the irrigated area. Theconsultants will evaluate the socio-economic impact of the Scenario C development interms of changes in employment, incomes, and possible resettlement needs.

Water quality changes in the Amu DaryaThe mitigation measures especially concern proper management of irrigation watersupply, which is covered by this project and proper management of drainage disposal,which will be covered in view of the UDP. The only measure left to facilitate propermanagement but also to evaluate actual impact is the preparation of a monitoringprogramme (see later).

Waterlogging near KMC.It is expected that water use efficiencies in the irrigated areas adjacent to the cascadeon Turkmen territory are very low as a result of lack of decent main and on-farmirrigation infrastructure. Assess the situation and make recommendation forimprovement.

h. Prepare an environmnental monitoring plan

Prepare a monitoring plan with clear performance indicators, monitoring frequency /intensity, timing and location of monitoring activities, and reporting requirements forthe key environmental issues.

Local environmental conditions at intervention sitesThe monitoring of the procedures requires a more continuous supervision within theimplementation team and regular auditing by a separate environmental or safetyexpert.

Social conditions in relation to land abandonmentPrepare a monitoring plan for the identification of highly saline lands. This monitoringprogramme should make use of the local melioration monitoring and enhance thiswhere required. Indicate the feasibility for monitoring potential and actual landabandonment. Make recommendations for the monitoring of the impact on people whodepend on these lands for their livelihood, employment and incomes.

Water quality changes in the Amu DaryaTo be able to evaluate any impact from the project interventions, monitoring of waterquality is required for the Amu Darya, irrigation diversion from the Amu Darya, maincollector drains both quantity and quality parameters. The water quality in the AmuDarya is regularly monitored within the framework of the monitoring programme ofUzgydromet. Monitoring of collector drains has hardly been carried out and is thus

Rqm*bl, of Uibkistm 12/08XI0MiniDy of dAgauh amd WicrR.oawPaojce Imp1anaaiw Unit

Karshi Pumping Cucade Rehabilitation Phase I Project 134Enviroenmtal AssesmenDraf Final Report

most required. Prepare a detailed monitoring plan with respect to water quality. Takeinto account the new hydroposts which are being built under Component D of theWater and Environmental Management Project (WEMP) and the data communicationand processing facilities which will be provided to these stations under USAID's CANatural Resource Management Project.

Waterlogging near KMCPrepare a monitoring plan for monitoring the extent of the waterlogged areas near thecanals. Tools may include field measurements and remote sensing images.

i. Prepare an environmental management plan

The environmental management plan should consist of:- Background

- Objectives

- Institutional framework (Environmental Unit, Project implementation unit,

etc.), including set up, responsibilities, etc.;

- Training and awareness raising plan

- Environmental mitigation and monitoring plan:

- Timing and organisation of activities;

- Cost estimate for investment, services, reporting, etc.

f. Extensive public consultations in the command areas of the pumping cascadein Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan are required in the form of interviews, focusgroups, public hearings etc. These consultations will be (i) undertaken duringthe process of preparing the EA and for discussing the EA results and (ii)coordinated with the consultants who, in parallel, are implementing the socialassessment (please refer to their TORs). The nature of these consultations, thefindings, and the recommendations would be presented as an annex to the EA(see OP 4.01).

9. Organise a final work shop in Kashkadarya with representatives of thestakeholders and beneficiaries for discussing the EA results. The agenda, listof participants, and the proceedings would be added as an annex to the EA(see OP 4.01);

5. REPORTING

The Environmental Assessment report should be concise and limited to significantenvironmental issues. The report will be issued in two separate volumes: the executive

Rqwblio dfUbdcitm 12/08/01MWini*y fArichm mad WgerRnaqaoPr)ed inerntMim Unit

Karshi Pumpmg CEcade Rhabhlitation Phase I Project 135Envirormental AssrsmerdDraft Final Report

summary in one volume and the balance of the report in a second volume. The reportshould be organised according to the following outline:

Executive Summary;Policy, Legal and Administrative Framework;Description of the Proposed Project;Description of the Environment;Assessment of Environmental Impacts;Environmental Management Plan;List of References;Appendices: List of EA report prepares;

Records of inter-agency and publiclNGO communications;Tables with data;List of associated reports.Public consultations and final workshop

The following reports will be produced with an indication of the number of copies:

- an inception note within one month after the official starting date;- the draft final report four months after start of the project;- the final report at the end of the project period, taking into consideration the

comments from the parties involved as well the stakeholder workshop.

The following copies will be made available:

Report For submission to:

World Bank Government of Uzbekistan

English Russian English Russian Uzbek

Inception note I= 4 1 2 10final work plan) ___ _

Draft final report 10 1 2 20

Final report 20 1 2 25 101'

(*): executive summary only

6. IMPLEMENTATION, DURATION AND TIMING

The EA will be prepared by a team of international and national individual consultantsin parallel with the consultants teams which are preparing the infrastructurerehabilitation and the institutional development component of the project, and theRepblio ofU&ddxtw 12/08/01Ministy of AgpiOultre and Water RoromPrqa Implanatldien Uhnit

Kahii Pumping Cicade Rdeabilitation Phase I Projcct 136Envirotnuta AssassmentDran Final Report

team which is executing a social assessment in the project area. The duration of theassignment depends on extent to which alternatives have to be considered. However,based on available data a project EA would take around 4 to 5 months all together.The following counts for the environmental assessment:

- a substantial amount data are considered available;- field campaigns to KMC and in the command area in Turkmenistan and

Uzbekistan are required to collect additional data- extensive public consultations in the command areas of the pumping cascade

in Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan are required (see above)- only the indicated key issues receive special assessment efforts.

The timing is anticipated as follows:

mobilisation: 1 month;review of data and field campaigns including preparation: 1 month;analyses partially together with the Technical consultant: 1 month;reporting: 1 month;

- whole period 4 to 5 months, including workshop and approval / clearance.

7. CONSULTANT TEAM AND PREMISES

The consultant team consists of national and international individual consultants,which would include staff which has been involved in the EA of the UDP. Thefollowing experts and inputs are anticipated to be required:

International individual consultants:

An EA specialist with considerable experience in water, irrigation and drainageprojects would act as team leader- 4 man/month;a technical environmental engineer to assess issues at intervention sites and todevelop guidelines to tackle these - 3 man/month;an institutional expert to examine how the environmental management plancould be best incorporated in the govemment structure or PIU and integratedwith the project implementation activities - 1 man/month.

These staff should generally have 10 to 15 years of experience; knowledge ofRussian/Uzbek would be an advantage.

National consultants:- a co-team leader / office manager / logistic manager- 4 man/month;- a hydraulic/sediment transport expert - 4 man/month;- a dredging specialist - 4 man/month;- a civil engineer - 4 man/month;

RopublioofUzbkistnm 12108/01hMiniaty of Agriime md Waer RirowesProject Implanadmion Unit

Karshi Pumpmg Cacade Rdhabilitntion Phase I Project 137Envtronuental Ass>smetDrafl Fius Repon

- a electrical and mechanical engineer to investigate the potential site pollutionissues and to develop guidelines for this - 4 man/month;

- an irrigation management specialist - 4 man/month;- a sociologist - 4 man/month;- a water quality expert - 4 man/month;- a biologist - 4 man/month.

Further:- close cooperation with the other consultants' team working on the project is

essential;- to strengthen the knowledge and skills of the national consultants;- virtually all work is carried out in Uzbekistan.

Based on the experience within the UDP, the premises of the environmentalassessment should be at the same location of that of the technical consultants.

The data collection and data analyses required a substantial number of nationalconsultants. A selection of key national consultants from various organisations whohave participated in the UDP EA will support the environmental assessment.

8. PROJECT ORGANISATION

The Ministry of Agriculture and Water Resources (MAWR) has overall responsibilityfor the preparation and implementation of the project. MAWR has appointed aProject Coordinator who would be responsible for liaison with central government,Oblasts, and between the PIU and MAWR.

The government of Uzbekistan has appointed a Supervision Committee (SC) toprovide overall policy guidance and coordinate project activities at the highest level.SC is chaired by Deputy Prime Minister responsible for Agriculture and WaterResources and has members from State Water Supervision Agency, Ministries ofEnergy and Electricity, Finance, Khakim of Kashkadarya Oblast, Uzbek WaterBuilding Agency UzGiproMelio VodHoz lUzgi) Institute.

MAWR has a Project Implementation Unit (PIU) with offices in Tashkent and Karshithat will be delegated the responsibility for the preparation and implementation ofthe project. The PIU is headed by a Technical Director who is being supported by asmall group of technical and administrative staff. . The PIU will recruit consultingfirms and individual consultants to carry out most of the activities related to projectpreparation and assume responsibility for contract management and constructionsupervision. For the preparation of the EA, the PIU will select and contract individualconsultants.

Rpbdic ofUbkistm 121S0/01M"iZy fAariuh d W*w RProjoa hwimanm Unit

Karsi Pumping Cascade Rehabilitation Phase I Project 138Enviroinental AssessmentDraft Final Repest

Appendix B List of EA report preparers

Five expatriate positions have been identified, which are:

- Team leader / EIA specialist: Mr. Ruud Platenburg- Environmental water management engineer: Mr. Karahan- Environental civil engineer: Mr. Jorg Pause- Data management / Remote sensing expert: Ms. Judith van Daalen- Institutional expert: Mr. Jaap Boomsma

The selected positions of national consultants have been determined after consultation withthe PIU and various interviews. Some have not been interviewed but they are known orhave sufficient background to the job. Many of the curricula vitae are available with the PIU.The positions and proposed experts are as follows:

- Co-teamleader with EIA background: Ms. Gulya Khasankhova (Uzgipromeliovodkhoz)- Environmental (civil) engineer in the water sector: (Mr. Saidazam Mirzaev,

Goscompriroda)- Water management and policy expert: Mr. Azimov (Chief O&M Department, MAWR)- KMC rehabilitation specialist: Mr. Kabilin (Irrigation and Drainage expert

Uzgipromeliovodkhoz)- Interfarm infrastructure specialist Mr. Nikolai Fedinsky (Uzgipromeliovodkhoz)- Sediment and dredging specialist: Mr. Aleksej Telikin (Chief Hydromechanization

Department, Karshi)- Sediment and dredging specialist: Mr. Aman Avezov (Chief Hydromechanisation at

KMC Turkmenistan)- Electrical and mechanical engineer: Mr. Khodjakulov (E&M Department KMC,

Talimardian)- Data management and GIS expert: Mr. lbragimov Rustam (Uzgipromeliovodkhoz)- Water quality expert I biologist: Mr. Constantin Gromika (Saniifi, Teamleader

Sudoche project)- Institutional expert {Mr. Norbai Gaibnasarov (Saniiri, consultant Institutional

Component study)- Training expert (Ms. L. Piontkovskay, Chief Specialist Goscompriroda)- Biologist Karshi (Mr. Suamov, Specialist Goscompriroda Karshi)- Environmentalist and Nishan expert from Karshi (Mr. Kutcharov, Goscompriroda

Karshi)- Logistics, translation, etc. through PIU

Republic of Uzbdkitas 12(08/01Ministry of Agriculture and Waer ResouroesPfitjet antatic Unit

Karili Pumpmg Cacade Rehabilitation Phase I Project 139Environcntal Asses6metDraft Final ReponT

Appendix C Records of inter-agency and public / NGOcommunications

Name Positon

A. Karaev Deputy Director of Obigoscompriroda Karshi

K. Nasirov Specialist of Obigoscompriroda Karshi

1. Shainazarov Chief of Department of OD KMC Karshi

S. Bazarov Chief of Department of OD KMC KarshiA.Jumaev Head of Sanitation and Epidiomological Service Karshi

Ch.Khakberdiev Head of Sanition and Epidiomological Service Karshi

Ya.Asminkin Center of Social Research "Takhlil" Tashkent

O.Nemirovskya Center of Social Research "Takhlil" Tashkent

Kh.K. Annaev Khokim of Niyazov District Turkmenistan

D. Babaev Chairman of Kyzyl-Ayak Assosiation Turkmenistan

B. Bazarov Chairman of Enish Assosiation Turkmenistan

A. Mamedov Land Surveyor of Niyazov District Turkmenistan

N.Kupris Chief of Hydromekhanization Department Turkmenistan

R. Ruzibaev Deputy Chief of Obiselvodkhoz Karshi

1. Kurbanov Chief of OD CDS Karshi

R. Tashev Chief Engineer of OD CDS Karshi

D. Khaitov Chief of OD CDS Karshi

Kh. Alimov Chief Hydrogeologist of OD CDS Karshi

J. Khikmatov Chief Engineer of ODSP-8 Karshi

N. lsmailov Chief of Karshi District Unit Karshi

T. Ergashev Specialist of Obiselvodkhoz Karshi

U.Erboev Head of Y.Usupov Shirkat Nishan District

Kh. Khujaerov Agronomist of Y.Usupov Shirkat Nishan District

Y.Oblaev Irrigator of lbn Sino Shirkat Nishan District

A. Rakhmonov Irrigator of Novbakhor Shirkat Nishan District

Kh. Khuraev Head of Novbakhor Shirkat Nishan District

D.Alimov Head of Aidin Shirkat Nishan District

K.Ruziev Irrigator of Aidin Shirkat Nishan District

M. Ermatov Farmer of Nishan district Nishan DistrictU. Chariev Farmer of Ok-Altyn State Farm Nishan District

M. Ochilov Head of Farm under Chemical Plant Nishan District

O.Miranov Head of Kashkadarya farm Karshi District

N.Khazratov Irrigator of Kashkadarya farm Karshi District

M.Baratov Hydrotechnik of Rayselvodkhoz Karshi District

Repblic of UAkim 12/0t/01Minutry ofABriu and WatrResmvcaProject IMpIanot U,it

Karshi Pumping Cacade Rehabilitation Phase I Project 140Envmnental AssessmctDraft Fmal Report

Mumunov Farmer of farm NW 51 a Kasan District

Khaknazarov Farmer of farm Ns 51 a Kasan District

Kh.Faiziev Farmer of farm Ns 21 Y.Usupov District

R.Juraev Farmer of Gaipov farm Y.Usupov District

T.Badalov Farmer of Kh.Khudjakulov farm Kasbi District

Kh.Gapparov Head of Department of MAWR Tashkent

M.Mirkhodjiev Head of Department of MAWR TashkentA.Yashin Chief of Department of MAWR Tashkent

Rcpbhlio ofUzbekt 12108/01Muity dc Agritlu ud Watr RmomsProject bqlamtadti Uni

Karshi Pumping Cacade Rdeabilitation Phase I Project 142Environnial AsscssmentDraft Final Report

Appendix E ORGANIZATION CHARTS

Figure 1 Operation and Maintenance Authorities

Ministry of Agriculbure& Water Resources

Tashkent

Water SectorDepartment

Republican AssociationUZVODREMEKSPLUATATSIA OBLSELVODKHOZ

Tashkent

OD KMC Maintenance and ConstructionTalimarjan Unitary Enterprise

GIDROMEKHANIZATSIATashkent

Talimarjan Dostluk Construction DepartmentReservoir of GIDROMEKHANIZATSIA

Talimaan Working SitesWorkshop 1 to 4

Rqpnblb ofUzckitm 12/U/01Mmy of Agriuc ud Wtra RtaowxPMo=t 1mplcnatsitn Unit

A xi~~~~~~~~~~~~r1 X m g ~~~~~~~~t I M MO

I T I I

Karshi Pumpmng Cascade Rehabilitation Phase I Project 144Environmental AssessmentDraft Final ReporT

Figure 3 Relation MAWR & Kashkadarya Obiselvodkhoz with O&M andcontracting organizations

RELATION MAWR & KASHKADARYA OBLSELVODKHOZ WITH O&M AND CONTRACTING ORGANISATIONS

|MAWR NINSELWODIG |

6 DEPRUIHEAOS RAYSELVOOIHOZ

OFOORSELVOO10tZ |(lrnMO)

pa _ _htcM*baWts _____ w (o MAV uR t efAta

CONTRACTING ORGANISAllONS E*MkwcuW cdet dnraM ut rMt

l~~~~~~ I R& (%l MO"n.)

meab*e nkil tded *e d uc t I * II WK o rectoe (cucu0)

(146*) (6c. F t*(6NO.0 ) (5 M) (-¢

(S43mL) saL(57 ) (74 No.) (78SMO)

twqci*e tp qyvd

u60) donuh *.cba(807&*i


Karshi Punping Cascade Rdiabilitntion Phase I Project 145Enviromimal AssesmatDrlft Final Rqpodt

Figure 4 Environmental Management Structure on governmental level

Organizations accountable to Giscompriroda of the Republic of Uzbekistan

Republican inspection to protect The Main State ecological Ecological infornation andand efficient use flora and fauna examination forecasting department

and forest reserve (Glavgosecoexpertiza) (Ecoinfoprognoz)(Gosbiocontrol)

The State republican Scientific and research Tashkent scientific Scientific and industrialinspection to analytical design engineering research institute self financing center

control institute Hydrogeology "Ecology of water(GosSLAK) "Atmosphere" (Vodgeo) economy"

Republic of Uzb&dA=n IVo8/01Ministry of Agricuture and Wats ResowcesProjed InmWalemation Unit

Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabilitation Phase I Project 146Envromnental AssesmentDraft Fmal Repon

Figure 5. Structure of Regional Committees for Nature Protection

PUBLIC COUNCIL | GOVERNING BODY COMMIITFiEE

Industrial Ecological Standardizati Promotion of Computerand examination on. organize scientific and Center

technical department nature technicaldepartment utilization progress

department department

Inspection services of Karakalpakstan and Regions

Analitic Mining Atmosphere Inspection Inspection Inspectioncontrol relations air to protect to protect to protect

inspection inspection protection and flora and and linspection efficient use fauna efficient use

land waterreserves reservoirs

City, interdistrict and district committees (inspections)

Regional City committee Interdistrict Districtcommittee for for nature committee for committee for

nature protection protection nature natureprotection protection

Republic of Uzbdcstaa 12/08/01Minitzy of Agrckssr and Whif RasoureProje iIplaneatation LTa

Kamhi Pumpmg Cscade Reiabiitsaton Phase I Project 147Environmental Assesmenrt

Draft Final Report

Appendix F TRAINING OUTLINES

TRAINING OUTLINE N-1

Title of training Environment assessment in implementing the Karshi pumpingcascade rehabilitation project.

Target group Personnel of contractor organisations, Operation Directorate(for whom is this meant) of KMC.Objectives of training Understanding aim and purposes of Karshi pumping cascade I('On completion of the training, the rehabilitation Projectparticipants are aware of, will be Understanding of existing ecological situation in oblastable to....') Understanding of ecological problems in realisation of the

project and methods of their mitigationTraining contents Aims and purposes of KPCRP(what topics will be dealt with) Governmental policy on environment

Tool, organisations, providing control, assessment of projectimpact to environmentDefinition of main ecological problems in the oblastPotential project impact to environmentMitigation measures and implementation of nature controlmeasures

Duration 1 day (6 hours).Number of participants dufng one 20 personssession

Methods Lecture, discussions(how will the training be delivered:lecture, discussion, field visit)Materials (Handouts)(what kind of materials and trainingaids will be used: handouts,viewfoilsTrainers Foreign project experts, local experts on nature control(qualification of trainers)Logistic issues Karshi city, hall of the oblast Nature Control Committee(place, transport) __I

Rspblio of Urhdtm 12/08/01MiIty JfA.wuJum mnd Wwcr Ram=Piijed 3 Implamnaits Unit

Karshi Pmnping Cascade Rehabilitation Phase I Project 148Environmcntal AssesasmentDraft Fina] Repori

TRAINING OUTLINE N92

Title of training Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabilitation Project, technical andinstitutional aspects

Target group Leaders of oblast and rayon khakimiyats (7 rayons)(for whom is this meant) Obiselvodkhoz, heads of OD KMC, CDN, water management

systems of Minselvodkhoz, Shirkats, oblast nature controlcommittee, Karshi hydrogeological expedition, representativesnon governmental organisations

Objectives of training Understanding of aims and purposes of KPCRP('On completion of the training, the Understanding of main ecological problems and reforms of Iparticipants are aware of, will be irrigation managementable to....') Understanding of importance of monitoring and ecological

control for use of land-water resourcesTraining contents Aims and purposes of KPCRP(what topics will be dealt with) Governmental policy on environment control, main ecological

problems of the oblast.Brief review of existing juridical, organisational and politicalstructure use of land and water resourcesReview of KPCRP, forming of steady water managementorganisations on the irrigated territory of the Karshi zones.Technical-economic justification reform of irrigationmanagementForming and introduction into practice Water UsersOrganisations and Association of Waler Users

Duration 1 day (6 hours).Number of participants during one 25 personssessionMethods Lecture, discussions(how will the training be delivered:lecture, discussion)Materials (Handouts)Trainers Foreign project experts, local experts of Oblselvodkozes,(qualification of trainers) institutes, organs of nature controlLogistic issues Karshi city, hall of the oblast khakimiyat(place, transport, accommodationparticipants)

Repubie fU6disk%t= 1210V01Mitay ofAuie ltum nid Water RmowemPtc lmplmintatm Unit

Karshi Pumping Casdce Rehabilitation Phase I Prcjcct 149Enviromnaital Ascssm=tDraft Final Report

TRAINING OUTLINE N9 3

Title of training Karshi Pumping Cascade Rehabilitation Project, technical andinstitutional aspects

Target group Leaders of rayon organs (7 rayons) of selvodkhoz, shirkats,(for whom is this meant) family and individual, dehkan farms, organs of nature controlObjectives of training Understanding of aims and purposes of KPCRP('On completion of the training, the Understanding reform of irrigation management and mainparticipants are aware of, will be ecological problemsable to....') Understanding of importance of providing rational water use I

and control of natural resources.Training contents Aims and purposes of KPCRP(what topics will be dealt with) Brief review of existing juridical, organisational and political

structure of water resources use.Governmental policy of on environment, main ecologicalproblems of the oblast

Review of KPCRP, improvement and increasing of efficiency

of Pumping Cascade.Review of KPCRP, forming of sustainable water managementorganisation on the irrigated zone of Karshi territory.Technical -economical justification of reforms of irrigationmanagementCreation and introduction in to the practice Organisation ofWater users and Association of Water Users.Alternative methods and technologies for water savingProviding monitor and control of water resources use

Duration 3 days (18 hours).Number of participants 50 personsMethods Lecture, discussionMaterials (Handouts)Trainers Project foreign experts, local experts of Obiselvodkhoz,(qualification of trainers) institutes, organs of nature controlLogistic issues Karshi city, hall of ObiselvodkhozSource: Piontkovskaya L., September 2001

Rqublir, ofUzdAkiau 12/03/01Mi,abiy of AEiaurc md Wacr RamaraeaPeojct Ipleancatgiwi Unit