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ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT REPORT

PROPOSED EXPORT PROCESSING ZONE (EPZ),


MIRIJJAWILA, HAMBANTHOTA
VOLUME I - MAIN REPORT
11/07/2014

SKILLS INTERNATIONAL (PVT) LTD

ND
2 Floor, Lakshmans Building, #321, Galle Road, Colombo 3, Sri Lanka.
Tel. (94 11) 2375270, 2375271, 4740334. Fax. (94 11) 4628548
E-mail: info@skillsinternational.lk
Website: www.skillsinternational.lk
Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Table of Contents
Executive Summary ......................................................................................................2
Introduction to the Project ................................................................................................... 2
Description of the Project and Reasonable Alternatives ........................................................ 2
Description of the Existing Environment ............................................................................... 3
Physical Environment ............................................................................................................. 3
Biological Environment ........................................................................................................... 4
Social Environment ................................................................................................................. 5
Anticipated Environmental Impacts ...................................................................................... 5
Proposed Mitigatory Measures ............................................................................................ 6
Monitoring programme........................................................................................................ 6
Conclusion and Recommendation ........................................................................................ 6

Chapter 1 - Introduction ...............................................................................................8


1.1. Background of the Project ........................................................................................... 8
1.2. Objective and Justification of the Proposed Project ..................................................... 8
1.3. Objective of the EIA Report ......................................................................................... 8
1.4. Extent and Scope of the Study ..................................................................................... 9
1.5. Methodologies and Technologies Adopted for Preparation of the EIA Report ............... 9
1.5.1. Survey of Existing literature ........................................................................................ 9
1.5.2. Field Investigations ..................................................................................................... 9
1.5.3. Spatial Data ............................................................................................................... 16
1.5.4. .Topographical Maps Produced by the Project ......................................................... 16
1.6. Government Policy Regarding the Project .................................................................. 17
1.7. Conformity with Other Development Plans in the Area .............................................. 18
1.8. Any Conditions Laid down by State Agencies in Granting Preliminary Clearance for the
Project 18

Chapter 2. Description of the Proposed Project and Reasonable Alternatives ......... 20


2.1. Description of the proposed project .......................................................................... 20
2.1.1. Location of the Project .............................................................................................. 20
2.1.2. Present Ownership of the Land ................................................................................ 20
2.1.3. The layout plan of the project................................................................................... 20
2.1.4. Description of the Proposed Project Activities ......................................................... 23
2.1.5. Other infrastructure developments required ........................................................... 31
2.1.6. Details on pre-construction, Construction activities, phased implementation
schedule................................................................................................................... 33
2.1.7. Labour force requirement, time frame of the project and support facilities and
services. .................................................................................................................... 33
2.1.8. Methodology of operation of project components and maintenance activities ...... 35
2.2. Evaluation of Alternatives ......................................................................................... 36

Chapter 3. Description of the Existing Environment................................................ 38


3.1. Study area ................................................................................................................ 38
3.2. Physical Environment ................................................................................................ 38
3.2.1. Topography ............................................................................................................... 38
3.2.2. Climate ...................................................................................................................... 40
3.2.3. Monthly Average Wind Speed and Dominant Directions ........................................ 43

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

3.2.4. .Hydrology and Drainage Pattern.............................................................................. 44


3.2.5. Geology ..................................................................................................................... 46
3.2.6. Soils ........................................................................................................................... 48
3.2.7. Field evidences of soils and rocks in proposed Mirijjawila export processing zone .. 49
3.2.8. Water Resources ....................................................................................................... 50
3.2.9. Ground Water ........................................................................................................... 53
3.2.10. Land use .................................................................................................................... 54
3.2.11. Air quality .................................................................................................................. 54
3.2.12. Noise &Vibration ....................................................................................................... 54
3.3. Biological Environment ............................................................................................. 58
3.3.1. Existing natural and manmade habitats in and around the project area and the
distribution and density of the fauna and flora in them ......................................... 58
3.3.2. Flora .......................................................................................................................... 58
3.3.3. Fauna ......................................................................................................................... 59
3.3.4. Proximity to Wildlife Reserves, National Parks, Sanctuaries, Wetlands and Forest
Reserves................................................................................................................... 60
3.4. Social and Cultural Environment ................................................................................ 60
3.4.1. Population Characteristics in Hambanthota District................................................. 60
3.4.2. Socio economic status of the households within 500m of the project site .............. 61
3.4.3. .Cultural, historical, and archeological aspects/considerations ............................... 62
3.4.4. . Existing health and infrastructure facilities............................................................. 62
3.4.5. . Natural Disaster which have occurred in the past .................................................. 62
3.5. Public Consultation Sessions ..................................................................................... 66

Chapter 4. Anticipated Environmental Impacts ...................................................... 68


4.1. Impacts on Ecology ................................................................................................... 68
4.1.1. Impacts on bio-diversity due to loss of habitats/ fragmentation of habitats ........... 68
4.1.2. Human elephant conflict due to loss of habitats/ fragmentation of habitats .......... 68
4.2. Impact on Physical environment................................................................................ 69
4.2.1. . Water and other liquid effluents :Impact of treated industrial waste water disposal
on the environment................................................................................................. 69
4.2.2. . Solid and hazardous waste ...................................................................................... 72
4.2.3. .Noise and Vibration.................................................................................................. 72
4.2.4. . Impact on Hydrology ............................................................................................... 74
4.2.5. Impact on Drainage Paths ......................................................................................... 76
4.2.6. Tsunami Risk Impact ................................................................................................. 76
4.2.7. Impacts on geology and hydrogeology ..................................................................... 76
4.2.8. Impact on soils .......................................................................................................... 76
4.3. Impact on population ................................................................................................ 76
4.3.1. Impacts on livelihood/income sources of people ..................................................... 76
4.3.2. Impact of migration of people .................................................................................. 76
4.3.3. Impact of rising Land value ....................................................................................... 77
4.3.4. Impact of traffic in the area ...................................................................................... 77
4.3.5. Impact of waste water and industrial emissions on people ..................................... 77
4.3.6. Impact of garbage disposal ....................................................................................... 77
4.3.7. Public safety and security ......................................................................................... 77
4.3.8. Impact of law and order ............................................................................................ 77
4.3.9. Impact of trade union and political movements....................................................... 78
4.3.10. Disturbances to the existing historical/cultural sites ................................................ 78

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

4.3.11. Issues due to competition for limited resources ...................................................... 78

Chapter 5. Proposed Mitigatory Measures ............................................................. 80


5.1. Mitigation of Ecological Impacts ................................................................................ 80
5.1.1. Mitigation of impacts on the Ecological resources ................................................... 80
5.1.2. Mitigatory measures for the impacts on HEC. .......................................................... 80
5.2. Mitigation measures for impact on Physical Environment .......................................... 81
5.2.1. During construction phase ........................................................................................ 81
5.2.2. Procurement of construction material ..................................................................... 82
5.2.3. Transportation of construction material................................................................... 82
5.2.4. Storage of construction material .............................................................................. 82
5.2.5. Contamination of nearby water ways from construction work................................ 83
5.2.6. Mitigations of impacts on health, sanitation and safety .......................................... 83
5.2.7. Mitigation of impacts on disposal of waste water .................................................... 84
5.2.8. Mitigatory measures for the impact on disposal of treated waste water to the
ponds in the Botanical Garden ................................................................................ 85
5.2.9. Mitigation of impacts on solid waste disposal .......................................................... 85
5.2.10. Mitigation of impacts on aesthetic environment ..................................................... 86
5.2.11. Mitigations of impacts on air pollution ..................................................................... 86
5.2.12. Mitigations for Noise impacts ................................................................................... 87
5.2.13. Operational phase ..................................................................................................... 88
5.2.14. Mitigations for vibration impacts.............................................................................. 88
5.2.15. Mitigation of the impact on drainage pattern .......................................................... 89
5.2.16. Mitigation measures for soil erosion and siltation ................................................... 89
5.2.17. Mitigation measures for tanks .................................................................................. 90
5.2.18. Mitigation measures for impact on drainage paths.................................................. 90
5.2.19. Mitigation measures for Tsunami risk impact .......................................................... 92
5.3. Mitigation of Socio Cultural impacts .......................................................................... 92
5.3.1. Mitigation of impact of population change .............................................................. 92
5.3.2. Mitigation of harmful impacts of urbanization ......................................................... 92
5.3.3. Mitigation of negative impacts of migration of people ............................................ 92
5.3.4. Mitigation of the impacts of increasing land values ................................................. 93
5.3.5. Mitigation of impact on infrastructure facilities ....................................................... 93
5.3.6. Mitigation of the impact of traffic ............................................................................ 93
5.3.7. Mitigation of the impact of disposal of garbage and industrial emissions ............... 93
5.3.8. Mitigation of impact on public safety and security .................................................. 93
5.3.9. Mitigation of impact on peace and order ................................................................. 93
5.3.10. Mitigation of impacts of trade unions and political movements.............................. 94
5.3.11. Mitigation of impact on the well-being of people .................................................... 94

Chapter 6. Environmental Monitoring Plan ............................................................ 96


6.1. Availability of funds, expertise and facilities for monitoring ....................................... 96

Chapter 7 Conclusions and Recommendations .................................................... 102


7.1 Conclusion .............................................................................................................. 102
7.2 Recommendations .................................................................................................. 102

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

List of Tables
Table 1. GPS data on the locations of water quality samplings ................................................... 11
Table 2. The locations of Air Quality sampling in Project Area .................................................... 11
Table 3 Noise & Vibration level measurements locations ......................................................... 13
Table 4. Methods of noise and vibration measurements in the project area ............................. 14
Table 5. Location of the project with all the Administrative Divisions is as follows. ................... 20
Table 6. Details on Waste Water Flow Generation ..................................................................... 25
Table 7. An overview of typical waste generated from the proposed industries ....................... 27
Table 8. Implementation programme of the project. ................................................................. 34
Table 9. Preliminary E s t i m a t e for Proposed Mirijjawlla Export Processing Zone .................. 35
Table 10. Details of Rainfall Intensity Hambanthota for 2, 10, 50 and 100 year periods ............ 42
Table 11. Average Wind Speed and Dominant Directions ........................................................... 43
Table 12. Surface water quality of the project area .................................................................... 51
Table 13. The quantity of groundwater supply in Hambanthota District .................................... 53
Table 14. The extents of the land uses in the project area and immediate surroundings .......... 54
Table 15. Results of Air Quality Sampling in the project area ..................................................... 55
Table 16. Noise Level Results in the project area ........................................................................ 55
Table 17. Vibration Measurements in Project Locations ............................................................. 57
Table 18. Summary of the distribution of flora in the project area ............................................. 58
Table 19. The distribution of endemic, threatened and vulnerable flora in the Project area..... 58
Table 20.The summary of the fauna in the Project area ............................................................. 59
Table 21. The distribution of endemic, threatened and vulnerable fauna in the Project area ... 59
Table 22. Distribution of Population by Ethnicity ........................................................................ 60
Table 23.Distribution of Population by Religion .......................................................................... 60
Table 24. Distribution of Population by Age ................................................................................ 60
Table 25. Distribution of Housing Units by Type of House .......................................................... 61
Table 26. Distribution of Housing Units by the Principle Material of Walls ................................ 61
Table 27. Distribution of Housing Units by the Principle Material of Roof.................................. 61
Table 28. Distribution of Households by the Principle Source of Drinking Water....................... 61
Table 29. Distribution of Households by the Principle Type of Lighting of Houses ..................... 61
Table 30. Distribution of damaged housing units due to Tsunami in Hambanthota DS Division.62
Table 31. Categorization of the noise levels according to the type of industries........................ 72
Table 32. Noise modelling scenarios used for the Project........................................................... 73
Table 33. Existing noise levels and predicted noise levels for the 4 scenarios ............................ 74
Table 34. Environmental Monitoring Plan for the Proposed EPZ in Mirijjawila .......................... 97

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

List of Figures
Figure 1. Locations of air and water quality measurement in the Project site............................ 12
Figure 2. Locations of noise and vibration measurements in the project area ........................... 15
Figure 3. Location Map of the Proposed EPZ at Mirijjawila, Hambanthota. ............................... 21
Figure 4. The Master Layout Plan of the Mirijjawila EPZ ............................................................. 22
Figure 5. The Storm water drainage plan of the proposed EPZ ................................................... 26
Figure 6. The lay out plan for services line of the proposed zone .............................................. 32
Figure 7 Topography and land use map of the project area........................................................ 39
Figure 8. Climate Graph for Hambanthota District ...................................................................... 40
Figure 9. Monthly rainfall variation in Hambanthota .................................................................. 41
Figure 10. Isohyetal Map of the Country with the Project Area .................................................. 41
Figure 11. Rainfall Intensity Frequency Duration Curves............................................................. 42
Figure 12. Drainage Pattern in Mirijjawila EPZ ............................................................................ 45
Figure 13. Geology Map of the Project area ................................................................................ 46
Figure 14. Structural geology map in relation to the proposed project area .............................. 47
Figure 15. Soils distribution in the project area ........................................................................... 48
Figure 16. Part of Tsunami (26-12-2004) Affected Area Hambanthota District –Enhanced View63
Figure 17. Drought hazard map of Sri Lanka ................................................................................ 64
Figure 18. Predicted sea level rise in Sri Lanka in 2025 in Sri Lanka ............................................ 65
Figure 19. Details of effluent recipient tanks in Hambantota Botanical Gardens ....................... 71
Figure 20. Tanks located within the project area and in Manajjawa GN Division ....................... 75
Figure 21. The amended storm water drainage plan of the proposed EPZ ................................. 91
Figure 22. Zoning map of the Greater Hambanthota Area up to 2030 ....................................... 81

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

List of Annexures
Annex 1. TOR
Annex 2 List of prepares
Annex 3 References, sources and data reviewed
Annex 4 Conditions laid down by the state agencies for the Project
4 (a): The Gazette Notification and the deed of transfer
4 (b): The feasibility Report on provision of water arrangements by NWSDB
4 (c): The waste water treatment report provided by NWSDB
4 (d): Consent letter to provide electricity supply by CEB
4 (e): The letter issued by the Department of Agrarian Development to CEA
Annex 5 Full lists of Industries to be accommodated within the site.
Annex 6 Information on the soils types found in the project area
Annex 7 Report on air quality assessment of the project area
Annex 8 Report on noise and vibration in the project area
Annex 9 Full lists of flora and fauna observed in the project area
Annex 10 Details of the household survey of the project area
Annex 11 Details of public consultation sessions conducted in the project area
Annex 12 Impact Matrix of the Project
Annex 13 List of licensed quarries located relatively close to the Project area.

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

List of Abbreviations
BOD Biological Oxygen Demand
BOI Board Of Investments
CEA Central Environment Authority
CEB Ceylon Electricity Board
COD Chemical Oxygen Demand
DAD Department of Agrarian Development
DS Divisional Secretariat Division
DWLC Department of Wild Life Conservation
EIA Environment Impact Assessment
EMoP Environmental monitoring plan
EMP Environmental Management Plan
EPZ Export Processing Zones
GS&MB Geological Survey and Mines Bureau
GHUDP Greater Hambanthota Urban Development Plan
HEC Human Elephant Conflict
HSAP Health and Safety Action Plan
IDF Intensity Duration Frequency
IP Industrial Parks
IPZ Investment Promotion Zone
ITI Industrial Technology Institute.
IUCN International Union for Conservation of Nature
MENR Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources
MER Managed Elephant Range
NBRO National Building and Research Organisation
NWSDB National Water Supply and Drainage Board
PAA Project Approving Agency
RDA Road Development Authority
SEA Strategic Environmental Assessment
TOR Terms of Reference
UDA Urban Development Authority
ULBIP Udawalawe Left Bank Irrigation Project
ULBISP Udawalawe Left Bank Irrigation and Settlement Project

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Executive Summary

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Executive Summary
Introduction to the Project
Under the Mahinda Chinthana programme, establishment of new Industrial Promotion Zones (IPZ) and
transformation of small townships in close proximity to such zones into large scale cities has been
clearly stated. Going along with this, there are plans to establish 12 IPZ which accommodate large
scale industries so that many new industries will be set up throughout the country. The government
will also grant a 5 year tax holiday to investments exceeding Rs. 50 million in these regions. Mahinda
Chinthana also clearly states the aim to promote sustainable development in close liaison with the
land, fauna and flora.

In addition to the above, the Government of Sri Lanka has decided to promote Hambanthota Town as
an International Hub, with the aim of improving the economy of the Hambanthota District and the
surrounding area. In the Greater Hambanthota Urban Development Plan (GHDP) which has been
prepared to accommodate pending developments in a sustainable environment, areas had been
zoned as Export Processing Zones (EPZ) and Investment Promotion Zones (IPZ) in addition to the
industrial development in and around the Seaport.

Therefore, by taking the competitive advantage of being located at close proximity to the Seaport and
Airport in Hambanthota, it is expected to enhance the investments in industrial sector and to boost
the economy of the southern region of the country. Considering all these plans, the Board of
Investments (BOI), Sri Lanka has also decided to expand its industrial park which was on 8.7 ha of land
at Mirijjawila, Hambanthota to a much larger one on 228 ha. The rest of the land was under the Urban
Development Authority (UDA); but owned by Mahaweli Authority of Sri Lanka (MASL) and had been
subsequently vested to the BOI. The proposed project area is located in the Hambanthota DS Division
in Hambanthota District, and is about 2 kilometres away from the sea.

Description of the Project and Reasonable Alternatives


Out of the total extent of the proposed EPZ which is 228 ha, 123.9 ha will be used for the industries,
7.78 ha for the establishment of the water supply related infrastructure, 5.40 ha for the common
waste water treatment plant operated by the National Water Supply and Drainage Board (NWSDB)
and 3.15 ha for the solid waste disposal. About 88.62 ha had been set aside as reservations, tanks,
roads and service areas. The BOI had stipulated conditions to accommodate industries only having
minimum waste water within the proposed zone and the list include basic metal sector, chemical
industries sector, machinery & equipment sector, mineral products sector, paper & paper board
articles, leather without tanneries, timber & wood sector, transport sector and warehouse facility. 22
investors had expressed interested hitherto and they are related to the Automobile sector
predominantly and also in logistics, shipping and manufacturing sectors.

The water demand for the EPZ has been estimated to be 6500 m3/day and it would be supplied by the
NWSDB from surface water and there would not be any ground water extraction. Industries are
expected to treat their waste water up to standards stipulated by the BOI for accepting to the
common waste water treatment plant. Then the treated water will be sent to two ponds in the
Botanical Garden in Mirijjawila.

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Several sites were inspected and assessed for the purpose of identifying a most suitable site. After
considering compatibility of the sites with the Master Plans and Zoning maps prepared for the area,
distance to the seaport, availability of infrastructure facilities, access to major road networks, etc., the
present site was selected.

As a design alternative the BOI has stipulated conditions for accommodating the types of industries
which do not generate excessive amounts of waste water. Further high polluting industries have been
excluded from the EPZ due to its location in a more naturalised setting. Other design alternatives
were considered in the layout of roads, cross section of roads, layout of utility lines and infrastructure
design. With regard to technology selection and construction techniques, aspects such as
appropriateness to the site conditions, ability to achieve the required standards and quality
parameters within the minimum expenditure were considered.

The study site comprises of the actual BOI land of 228 ha and 500m from the boundary of it. In
addition to the field investigations, information was collected on areas that have potential to be
affected by the Project. The study team comprised of a Team Leader with an ecological/biological
background and EIA experience, and the team comprised of Sociologist, Fauna Specialist, Hydrologist,
Hydro geologist, Waste water and Solid waste management specialist and a GIS Specialist.

The main objective of the EIA was to identify the environmental impacts that would arise from the
construction and operation of the proposed project and to propose suitable mitigatory measures to
minimize the adverse impacts.

Description of the Existing Environment


The existing environment of the proposed project was studied in detail using available data and
procurement of new data using sample analysis & field work. A comprehensive description of the
existing environment of the project area is listed in Chapter 3 of this Report.

Physical Environment
Location: The proposed project is located in Mirijjawila, in the Hambanthota District in the Southern
Province of Sri Lanka. The Project area falls into the Divisional Secretary Division, Hambanthota.

Topography: Topography of the area consists of rolling undulating terrain sloping towards the existing
tanks. The topography is such that there is no dense network of natural streams. Further, no visible
valleys or hillocks are seen in the project area. Ground levels of the project area vary from 10m MSL to
25m MSL.

Geology: The project area is located near to the Highland Complex -Vijayan Complex boundary area.
Further the site is located on a sound basement rock and no weak zones are identified.

Soil: Major soil types present in the proposed study area are Reddish Brown Earth with higher amount
of gravel and Reddish Brown Earth with Solodized Solonetz.

Climate: Hambanthota has a relatively drier climate than other parts of the island. The average annual
rainfall is around 1250mm. The major constraint to agriculture in this region is the low effective
rainfall for a greater part of the year. Effective rainfall is sufficient only during the period mid-October
to mid-January for rain fed agriculture.

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Mineral Resources: There are no mineral resources in the project area although there are mineral
sands on the beach of Hambanthota.

Hydrology Drainage Pattern: There are few tanks and water holes in the project area. They are not
being used for agriculture but rather used for domestic level activities by neighboring people. In
addition to this there are tanks outside the EPZ which are used for irrigation and also bathing, washing
and other domestic activities. The percentage supply of groundwater is significantly lower than surface
water supply. The drainage pattern across the project area is somewhat simple because of the
absence of a dense stream network except for few dormant Ara’s which too are hardly prominent.
Presence of two tanks, mainly non perennial streams, dormant creeks (Ara) which flow in the
directions of tanks constitute the drainage pattern of the project area. More details about the
drainage pattern in the Project area is given in Chapter 3 and the BOI had constructed a storm water
drainage system to facilitate drainage within the EPZ.

Air quality, Water Quality, Noise and Vibration: The data on the existing levels of air quality, noise
and vibration within the EPZ and the affected area are shown in Chapter 3. According to the results,
except for the water quality, the base line levels of noise, vibration and air quality of the project area
do not exceed the standards stipulated by the Central Environment Authority (CEA).

Land Use: The study area (EPZ area and the immediate surroundings) comprise of a multitude of land
uses such as scrub vegetation, Chena cultivations, home gardens, grasslands, sparsely used croplands,
paddy lands, water bodies and barren lands. The predominant land use is scrub vegetation and takes
up about 130.57 ha. The extents and details of the said land uses are shown in Chapter 3.

Biological Environment
The project site is predominantly under scrub vegetation which had been opened up in several
locations for the establishment of roads and transmission lines by the Road Development Authority
(RDA) and Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) when it was under the UDA. There are few tanks and canals
inside the project site which are being used sparsely by people for domestic level activities. There are
Chena cultivations scattered about the site but are somewhat abandoned. Outside the boundary of
the project site there are paddy lands and water bodies established by the Udawalawe Left Bank
Irrigation and Settlement Project (ULBISP).

During the field survey, a total of 40 species of flora was identified in the study site having one
critically endangered plant, (Ziziphus lucida– Eraminiya), one near threatened plant (Salvadora persica
- Maliththan) and one vulnerable plant (Manilkara hexandra - Palu) and were recorded in the scrub
lands. However, all these species are found in other nearby scrub lands as well as tank associated
habitats in the District (Ref. EIA on the Extension of the Southern Expressway from Matara to
Hambanthota Section 4 – from Maththala Air Port to Hambanthota Sea Port via Andarawewa). With
regards to fauna, the project site and its environs recorded 151 species and recorded one Near
Threatened dragonfly (Dancing Dropwing), one critically endangered bird (Gull-billed Tern), and two
near threatened birds (Yellow-crowned Woodpecker and Streaked Weaver), one endangered mammal
species (Elephant) and one near threatened mammal (Grey langur).

Most of these species inhabits the scrub vegetation and it was noted that only a few species are
common in other habitats in the District such as the Managed Elephant Range (MER) in the
Hambanthota Division. (E.g. only the Yellow Wood Pecker and the Elephant in the project site were
seen in the scrub vegetation in MER).

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

There are no protected areas within or in close proximity to the proposed EPZ.

Social Environment
The proposed project area belongs to 3 GN Divisions; Mirijjawila, Samodagama, Manajjawa and is
located in Hambanthota DS Division in Hambanthota District. There are no inhabitants within the
project site but there are 27 households living at close proximity to the site (within 500m of the
boundary) which will be indirectly affected by the Project. The details of the settlements and their
socio economic situation are given in Chapter 3.

There are no places of archaeological or cultural interest within the site. Hambanthota District is prone
to droughts, coastal hazards like cyclones and tsunamis, sea level rise etc, but the frequency of
occurrence of above hazards is very low.

Anticipated Environmental Impacts


The ecological, physical and socio economic impacts are among the significant impacts of the
proposed project; the ecological and physical environs having negative impacts while the latter with
many positive impacts. With regard to the ecological impacts, 130.57 ha is taken up by the scrub
vegetation (of the 228 ha under the EPZ), therefore will be lost due to accommodation of industries
and other infrastructure in the EPZ.

On the face of many development schemes in the area including the proposed project and the fact
that the scrub vegetation are increasingly depleting to pave way for them, the impact of losing scrub
lands due to this project is somewhat considerable. However when compared to the total land area of
the district, the land area covered by the project is low, therefore compare to scrub forest in the
district the project area may contain very law coverage of scrub forests. Further at the time when the
BOI was vested this land by UDA, a considerable part of the land had been opened up to establish the
electrical and road infrastructure facilities by CEB and RDA. Therefore the magnitude of impact from
this proposed intervention becomes less than had it opened pristine natural forest. As 4 out of the 7
faunal species with high conservation status were birds with high mobility, the impact of the proposed
project on them will be less. However, the impacts of clearing forests on elephants and other wildlife
may lead to escalation of the human elephant conflicts in the area. The details are shown in Chapter 4
of this report.

With regard to the socio economic environment, there are no inhabitants within the project area.
However, there are some neighbouring population living on the opposite site of the Mirijjawila-
Sooriyawewa road. Some farmers having paddy fields and few irrigation tanks were also observed in
this area. Apart from the possible impacts that could arise due to the proposed project (i.e. air, noise
and vibration impacts etc.), the other impacts seem to be more positive on the socio economic setting
of the locality. However, with the increased opportunities there could always be some impingements
on the socio cultural environment which is common for any development project. More details on
anticipated impacts are shown in Chapter 4 of this report.

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Proposed Mitigatory Measures


Measures had already been taken by the BOI in having strict guidelines on the types of industries to be
accommodated in the EPZ taking their waste generation into consideration. Further the treatment of
waste water arrangements had been made with the NWSDB. In addition to these measures, the study
teams had proposed mitigations to minimize the adverse impacts on ecology, physical environment,
socio economic and cultural environment of the project area and are detailed in Chapter 5.

Monitoring programme
A comprehensive Environmental monitoring plan (EMoP) has been included in Chapter 6 of this
Report.

Conclusion and Recommendation


The recommendation of the EIA Study is the implementation of the proposed project with the
mitigations suggested in the Chapter 5 of the Report and adhering strictly to the EMoP described in
Chapter 6.

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Chapter 1
Introduction

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Chapter 1 - Introduction
1.1. Background of the Project
The Government of Sri Lanka has decided to promote Hambanthota Town as an International Hub,
with the aim of improving the economy of the Hambanthota District and the surrounding area. The
development programme began with the construction of its Seaport to harness the location advantage
in the Indian Ocean. In addition to this the Maththala International Airport and the proposed BOI
Zones including the one in the current study at Mirijjawila and the IPZ in Sooriyawewa to promote
investments in information technology and education, sports among many others. The Cricket
Stadium, Administrative Complex, Convention Hall, Botanical Garden, Safari Park, banking square,
central business area, bus and rail terminals in Siribopura, city hotels, beach hotels, which will
contribute immensely to boost the economy in the area. The road network will also be strengthened
with the extension of the southern highway up to Kataragama and also the southern railway to be
connected up to Kataragama. The expressway and the railway connecting the Seaport and the Airport
are also in the stage of obtaining environmental compliance and will be operational in the near future.

In the Greater Hambanthota Urban Development Plan (GHUDP) which has been prepared to
accommodate pending developments in a sustainable environment, areas had been zoned as EPZ and
IPZ in addition to the industrial development in and around the Seaport. The total population of the
Hambanthota District is 596,617 and with the population growth rate of 1.4% and the above
developments; the projected population in 2030 is 613,327.

In 1999, the BOI established an industrial park on a 8.7 ha land at Mirijjawila, Hambanthota which
comprises 3 commercial enterprises. During this period UDA was also in the process of developing 160
ha of land about 200m away from this industrial park for industrial development. Discussions held with
BOI, UDA and MASL who are the owners of the said lands resulted in vesting this 160 ha with the BOI
in addition to the 59 ha located in between the two lands and therefore making the total land to 228
ha.

1.2. Objective and Justification of the Proposed Project


The objective of the proposed project is to enhance the investments in industrial sector to boost the
economy of the southern region of the country by taking the competitive advantage of being located
at close proximity to the Seaport and Airport in Hambanthota.

1.3. Objective of the EIA Report


Locating all medium and high polluting industries in planned estates and providing necessary
infrastructure facilities to minimize potential damages to the natural environment is required by the
current industrial policy in the country. It is a statutory requirement under the National Environmental
Act. No. 47 (1980) with the Gazette Extraordinary No. 772/22 of June 1993 requiring formal
environmental approval for projects listed under Prescribed Projects based on the magnitude of the
operation and the impacts. Development of industrial sites exceeding 10 ha falls into the list of
Prescribed Projects and thus need an Environmental Assessment. The CEA, being the Project
Approving Agency (PAA) had issued a Terms of Reference (TOR) to conduct an Environment Impact
Assessment (EIA); (Refer Annex 1. TOR).

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

The main objective of the EIA Study is to ensure that the proposed project would be implemented
within required norms for sustainable development and avoid/reduce possible negative impacts on
both the social and natural environment.

1.4. Extent and Scope of the Study


The scope of the EIA Study is to identify/predict/assess impacts of the intended activities in the
proposed zone on the existing physical, biological and socio economic environment and recommends
practically possible mitigation measures to prevent/minimize adverse impacts. It also provides a
comprehensive monitoring plan for respective institutions/authorities.

The study area covers the following;

 The proposed project site which is 228 ha in extent

 Area covering about 500m of the boundary from the site

 Area covering about 500m from the boundary of the site for air quality studies (effective
area is 10 km radius)

1.5. Methodologies and Technologies Adopted for Preparation


of the EIA Report
The scope of the EIA Report covers the proposed site for the EPZ in Mirijjawila and 500m of the
boundary. The environmental impacts of the Project were assessed by reviewing existing information,
field investigations, collection of spatial and non-spatial data and using standard evaluation techniques
adopted from Leopold Matrix. The period of the assessment was 5 months including the preparation
of the draft report from 1.7.2013 to 25. 12. 2013. (Refer Annex 2 for the list of prepares).

1.5.1. Survey of Existing literature


The available documents prepared by the BOI and other relevant agencies were reviewed such as the
original proposal submitted by the BOI to the CEA which included the types of industries to be
accommodated in the Zone, the Master Plan of the EPZ, Environmental Norms of the BOI, Feasibility
Reports of NWSDB on provision of water and disposal of waste water including waste water treatment
facility, designs for storm water discharge, provision of electricity and other salient facilities etc.

In addition to this, the existing information on the socio economic aspects of the Hambanthota DS
Division was extracted from the Statistical Handbook of the Hambanthota District as well as the
Resource Profile of Hambanthota Division. Other details were collected from the DS offices and also
from the District Secretariat/Hambanthota. The references and the documents reviewed during this
study are shown in Annex 3

1.5.2. Field Investigations


Field studies were carried out to gather new information and to verify/update existing information.
The studies were conducted with physical, biological and sociological parameters to set the baseline
and also to aid in the prediction of the impacts.

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

1.5.2.1. Ecological Survey


This survey was carried out primarily within the site of the EPZ and 500m from the boundary of the
site. Major habitats / land use types present in the study area were identified using Google images and
1:50000 and 1:10,000 scale topographical maps. The habitat map was verified through a
reconnaissance survey. Using the verified habitat maps, the sampling intensity and sampling sites for
each habitat / land use type were determined within the study area. The detailed survey was carried
out in each identified sampling location. This survey included field sampling of both aquatic and
terrestrial fauna and flora using a variety of methods. The sampling methods that were used are
outlined below.

Fauna

The line transect survey method was used to assess the terrestrial fauna and the plot survey method
was used to assess aquatic fauna within each identified habitat in the study area. Several techniques
were used to collect information within transects or plots on the main selected taxonomic groups,
namely, dragonflies, butterflies, land snails, freshwater fish, herpetofauna (reptiles and amphibians),
birds and mammals. Within a transect, 50m x 50m plots were used for the observation of butterflies
and dragonflies while 5m x 5m plots were used for the observation of reptiles, amphibians. For the
birds, due to their high mobility circular plots were taken. In addition to this, opportunistic
observations were used for the faunal survey. The observed animal species were identified by using
the most recent published descriptions and taxonomic keys: D’Abrera (1998), Bedjanic et al., (2007),
Harrison (1999), Phillips (1935), Kotagama (2005), Goonatilake (2007), Fernando (1990), Naggs and
Raheem (2000), Manamendra-Arachchi and Pethiyagoda (2006), Das and De Silva (2005), Somaweera
(2007), Somaweera and Someweera (2009). The national conservation status of the species was
recorded according to the 2012 Red List of Threatened Fauna and Flora of Sri Lanka (IUCN & MENR,
2012). Nomenclature of the fauna was based on Bambaradeniya (2006).

Flora

Gradsect (gradient-directed transect) sampling technique was used to gather data on plant diversity.
Plots of 100 m x 5 m were carried out within each identified habitat to assess terrestrial flora in the
study area. Within each plot, encountered plants were identified by their families, genera and species.
Specimens of unidentified species were collected and numbered for subsequent identification at the
National Herbarium of the Department of Agriculture, Peradeniya.

Identification of the observed plant species was based on published descriptions and taxonomic keys
provided by Dassanayake and Fosberg (1980 – 1991), Dassanayake, Fosberg and Clayton (1994 –
1995), Dassanayake and Clayton (1996 – 2000), Dassanayake, Clayton and Shaffer-Fehre (2006). The
National Conservation Status of the species was recorded according to The National Red List 2012 of
Sri Lanka; Conservation Status of the Fauna and Flora, Ministry of Environment. Nomenclature of
flowering plant was based on Senaratna (2001).

1.5.2.2. Geological and soil Studies


Using the available data and maps verified by field studies the geology and soil of the project area was
assessed and mapped.

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

1.5.2.3. Study on Surface Water Quality


Surface water quality was determined by testing 7 water samples collected from the project area for
the physical, chemical, and biological water quality parameters. The GPS data on the locations are
shown in Table 1 and the locations and details of these are shown in Figure 1. The results were
compared with the Sri Lankan Standard for Drinking Water Quality (SLS 614:1983). The results of the
water quality testing are shown in Chapter 3 of this report

Table 1. GPS data on the locations of water quality samplings

Location Number Location Name GPS Locations

1
Lake water 6° 8'21.56"N 81°4'7.13"E

2. . Lake water 6° 8'3.19"N 81°4'15.08"E


3. .
Lake water 6° 7'34.39"N 81°4'7.13"E

4. Lake water 6° 7'1.44"N 81°4'46.89"E

5. Botanical Garden Tank 6° 9'6.58"N 81°3'49.12"E


in Dry Zone
6 Botanical Garden Tank in 6° 9'2.39"N 81°4'9.75"E
7. Dry Zone
Botanical Garden Tank in 6° 8'44.16"N 81°4'9.01"E
Dry Zone
Source- Chemical & Microbiology Laboratory Water Analysis Report : Aqua Technologies (Pvt) Ltd.

1.5.2.4. Study on Air Quality


In order to set the baseline situation of the air quality in the project area, three locations were
selected; representing the areas which have potential to undergo changes due to the proposed Project
(Ref. Table 2 and Figure 1). Air stressor measurements including Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM),
Particulate Matter less than 10 micrograms (PM 10 ), SO2 , NO2, were obtained as a 24 hour average and
CO, CO2 obtained from one hour samples at the aforesaid locations. These measurements were
carried out by the Industrial Technology Institute (ITI). The results were compared with the Maximum
Permissible Ambient air Quality Levels stipulated by the CEA under the Gazette Extraordinary No.
850/4, December 20, 1994.

Table 2. The locations of Air Quality sampling in Project Area


Location Number N E
4 60 08’ 55.33” 810 04’ 18.77”
5 60 07’ 19.43” 810 04’ 36.45”
6 6 007’ 59.91” 81 004’ 0.31”

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Figure 1. Locations of air and water quality measurement in the Project site

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

1.5.2.5. Study on Noise and Vibration


The noise and vibrations were recorded in several locations of the project area which would undergo
significant changes due to the Project (Refer Table 3 and Figure 2). Two hourly measurements were
taken at each location between 10.00 to 18.00 hrs while one hour measurements were taken between
19.00 to 21.00 hrs . Refer Table 4 for methods of noise and vibration measurements in the project area.
The data were compared with Noise and Vibration Standards of Pollution Control Division, CEA
(23/05/1996). In anticipation of the noise that will be generated by the use of machinery and
equipment during the construction phase and also during the implementation phase, a modelling
exercise was carried out and a noise map was generated by the ITI.

Table 3 Noise & Vibration level measurements locations proposed- Mirijjawila Export Processing
Zone

Measurement G.P.S. Point Location Name


Location
N1 0 Hambantota Botanical Garden
6 08’ 48.390’’N
0 Suriyawewa-Hambantota Road
81 04’ 15.636’’E
N2 0 Thilak Muthukumarana No 08,
6 08’ 01.029’’N
,SS Niwasa, Akkarapanaha,
0
81 03’ 59.813’’E Goyamkolamulla, Ambalanthotota.
N3 0 K.L Ranjana, No 24 Hydramani Niwasa,
6 07’ 46.773’’N
Goyamkolamulla, Ambalanthotota.
0
81 04’ 00.939’’E
N4 0 W.L.Rasika Nilanthi,265/1 Minipura,
6 07’ 26.241’’N
Chitharagama..
0
81 04’ 03.572’’E
N5 0 Malani Dissanayaka,36/ Kapuwatta, Mirijjawila,
6 07’ 10.554’’N
Hambanthoa.
0
81 04’ 34.477’’E
N6 0 Vihara Maha Devi,Human Development Center,
6 07’ 25.177’’N
0 Mirijawila, Hambanthota.
81 04’ 50.066’’E
V1 0 Hambantota Botanical Garden
6 08’ 49.839’’N
Suriyawewa-Hambantota Road
0
81 04’ 11.443’’E
V2 0 K.L Ranjan,No 24 Hydramani Niwasa,
6 07’ 46.773’’N
0 Goyamkolamulla, Ambalanthotota.
81 04’ 00.939’’E
V3 0 Malani Dissanayaka,36/ Kapuwatta, Mirijjawila,
6 07’ 10.554’’N
Hambanthoa.
0
81 04’ 34.477’’E
V4 0 Vihara Maha Devi,Human Development Center,
6 07’ 25.177’’N
Mirijawila, Hambanthota.
0
81 04’ 50.066’’E
Sources : Monitoring of Background and Existing Noise & Vibration levels Report No. CP – 1315689: Noise &
Vibration Group Electro Technology Laboratory

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Table 4. Methods of noise and vibration measurements in the project area

Assessment Assessment Location Frequency E N


Type Period Number

0 0
Noise level Twenty four 4 locations Day - 0600h to 81 04’ 15.636’’E 6 08’ 48.390’’N
hour existing 1800h
0 0
background 81 04’ 00.939’’E 6 07’ 46.773’’N
Evening - 1800h
0 0
measurements to 2200h 81 04’ 34.477’’E 6 07’ 10.554’’N

0 0
Night - 2200h 81 04’ 50.066’E 6 07’ 25.177’’N
to 0600h

0 0
Three hour 2 locations Two hour at each 81 04’ 03.572’’E 6 0 08’ 01.029’’N
background and location between
0 0
existing 0700h to 1800h 81 0 03’ 59.813’’E 6 0 07’ 26.241’’N
measurements
Evening/Night -
One hour at each
location between
1800h to 2400h

0 0
Vibration level One hour 4 locations Day - One hour at 81 04’ 11.443’’E 6 08’ 49.839’’N
background and each location
0
existing (0600h to 1800h) 81 04’ 00.939’’E 6 07’ 46.773’’N
measurements 0
81 04’ 34.477’’E 6 07’ 10.554’’N

0
810 04’ 50.066’’E 6 07’ 25.177’’N

Sources : Monitoring of Background Noise Levels and Existing Noise Levels, Existing Vibration levels Report No. CP –
1315689: Noise & Vibration Group Electro Technology Laboratory

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Figure 2. Locations of noise and vibration measurements in the project area

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

1.5.2.6. Hydrology
Assessment of drainage pattern of the project area was done using 1:10,000 maps, survey plan and site
reconnaissance to identify main drainage entities. Surface water drainage potential of the site was also
assessed using available reports.

1.5.2.7. Socio-economic Methodologies


The identification of significant issues was undertaken through several approaches. These include:

1. House to house questionnaire surveys


2. Key informant interviews
3. Official meetings held at DS offices
4. Consultants scoping sessions using Leopold matrix as a tool
5. Direct field observations
Questionnaire Surveys

There were no inhabitants within the proposed site for the EPZ but there were few households,
cultivations and irrigation infrastructure facilities around the site which would be affected by the
Project. Detailed studies were conducted in this area which is about 500m boundary of the site using a
questionnaire. A semi-structured questionnaire was administered to households in the socio-economic
survey. This questionnaire was designed to fit the requirements of the EIA and therefore it is not a
conventional socio-economic survey embracing all aspects of life in the affected areas. A group of
trained enumerators were employed for this task.

As mentioned above, in-depth interviews and key informant interviews were carried out by the
consultants to supplement the secondary data.

1.5.2.8. Observations on Archaeology


Field observations were made on the visible sites of possible archaeological importance by the Team.

1.5.3. Spatial Data


1.5.3.1. Maps and Satellite images available
The following topographic maps were procured from the Survey Department:

1:50,000 and 1:10,000 scale digital and analogue topographic maps to cover the entire project area
in Hambanthota.
Soil and geological maps available in the Survey Department as well as the Geological Survey and
Mines Bureau (GS&MB) covering the study areas
Google images to cover the location of interest

These maps were digitized by the GIS Specialist.

1.5.4. .Topographical Maps Produced by the Project


Topographical maps for the project area have been prepared from 1:50,000 maps.

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

1.5.4.1. Engineering Survey Maps


This information was procured from the available maps from BOI

1.5.4.2. GIS and Mapping


Survey Department 1:50,000 and 1:10,000 base maps were used to develop detailed spatial maps that
explore the existing topography, hydrology, slope lands, land use, transportation and other
infrastructural facilities. The direct and indirect impacts of the project on the above also could be
emulated from these maps.

1.6. Government Policy Regarding the Project


The Mahinda Chinthana framework puts forward a major policy that is committed to ensuring economic
growth with equality, minimizing regional imbalances and ensuring that the poor and vulnerable groups
are brought into the mainstream of development. Setting up 12 new Industrial Promotion Zones
throughout the country and transforming 12 small townships in close proximity to such zones into large
scale cities is one such activity clearly stated under industrial development in Mahinda Chinthana.
Further, there are plans to establish large scale industries in each DS Division so that at least 300 new
industries will be set up throughout the country in 12 IPZ. Further this will grant a 5 year tax holiday to
investments exceeding Rs. 50 million in these regions. Mahinda Chinthana also states clearly the aim to
promote sustainable development in close liaison with the land, fauna and flora.

Ministry of Investment Promotion was established to create a globally competitive entrepreneurial


culture enabling Sri Lanka to be the most preferred destination for investment. This is supposed to be
achieved through a conductive policy regime that stimulates growth and development whilst facilitating
and promoting foreign investments through integrity and professionalism. Some of the objectives of the
Ministry with regards to foreign investment is shown below;

 To continue to maintain a conducive policy regime that stimulates the growth and development of
national enterprise and investment promotion in the country

 To identify investment opportunities

 To attract foreign investment and promote national enterprises

 To ensure effective coordination among the public and private sector agencies providing input and
support services for the development of enterprise and investment opportunities

 To facilitate eradication of bottlenecks and impediments to ensure smooth flow of investment and
enterprise development

By virtue of Gazette Extraordinary No. 1482/9 of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka dated
29th January 2007, BOI, Sri Lanka is one of the institutions assigned to fulfil this mandate. BOI is the key
organization to promote investment for various development activities in the country. Its main
objectives are to promote, facilitate and approve industrial projects based on direct foreign and local
investments as well as joint ventures. Several EPZ (Katunayake, Wathupitawala Biyagama, Koggala,
Polgahawela, Mirigama, Mawathagama), Industrial Parks (IP e.g. Kandy and Mirijjawila) have been set
up in different parts of the country by the BOI and therefore plays a strategic role in the Government’s
attempt to promote foreign investments to boost the economy of Sri Lanka.

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

1.7. Conformity with Other Development Plans in the Area


The proposed Export Processing Zone in Mirijjawila is in line with the GHUDP where the location had
been zoned as an industrial area. This Plan is also based on the Strategic Environmental Assessment
(SEA) done in 2010 for the aforesaid Plan.

1.8. Any Conditions Laid down by State Agencies in Granting


Preliminary Clearance for the Project
As discussed earlier, the ownership of this land had been vested with the BOI after having many
discussions with the MASL and UDA. Therefore, no additional conditions had been laid for the use of
this land.

The NWSDB had agreed to provide the 6500 cum/day of the water demand for the EPZ and after
considering the losses such as non-revenue water, the water distribution was designed for 8200
cum/day. An estimate had been provided to the BOI by the NWSDB, to construct the water supply
infrastructure including a storage facility and a distribution system. Further, NWSDB had also designed
the waste water collection system, common treatment and re use systems for the proposed site.
Permission had also been obtained from the Botanical Garden in Mirijjawila to send the treated waste
water to two ponds located within the Garden. The Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) has also agreed to
provide electricity to the Zone. Discussions were held with the Department of Wild Life Conservation
(DWLC) in obtaining necessary suggestions to mitigate Human Elephant Conflict (HEC) in the project
area. Further Agrarian Development Department (ADD) has issued a letter and forwarded it to the CEA
regarding the disposal of treated waste water in to the tanks located in the Botanical garden and
consuming water to paddy cultivation.

The project approving agency, the CEA had requested an EIA for the project to aid in the environment
clearance.

Refer Annex 4 for all the documents provided by the state government agencies in granting preliminary
clearance for the Project.

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Chapter 2
Description of the Proposed
Project and Reasonable
Alternatives

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

2. Description of the Proposed Project and


Reasonable Alternatives
2.1. Description of the proposed project

2.1.1. Location of the Project


The Project is located in the Hambanthota DS Division in Hambanthota District, Sri Lanka. The site is
located about 2 kilometres away from the sea. The location of the project with all the Administrative
Divisions is as follows (Table 5). Figure 3 shows the location of the Project.

Table 5. Location of the project with all the Administrative Divisions

Province District Local Authority DS Divisions GN Divisions

Southern Hambanthota Hambanthota Hambanthota DS Mirijjawila


Pradeshiya Sabha Division
Sisilasagama

Manajjawa

The main access to the EPZ will be from the newly constructed road, Mirijjawila- Hambanthota Road,
which is located on the right hand side of the zone.

2.1.2. Present Ownership of the Land


The land was owned by the MASL & UDA and had been vested with the BOI. The Gazette Notification
and the deed of transfer is attached as Annex 4 (a)

2.1.3. The layout plan of the project.


The Master Plan of the EPZ with all the project components and reservation and conservation area/s to
be maintained is shown in figure 4

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Figure 3. Location Map of the Proposed EPZ at Mirijjawila, Hambanthota.

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Figure 4. The Master Layout Plan of the Mirijjawila EPZ


Figure 4. The Master Layout Plan of the Mirijjawila EPZ
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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

2.1.4. Description of the Proposed Project Activities


2.1.4.1. Types of industries to be accommodated
According to the BOI Proposal submitted to the CEA, following industrial sectors are to be
accommodated in the EPZ at Mirijjawila, Hambanthota. The full list of industries to be accommodated
in the proposed EPZ is attached as Annex 5

 Basic Metal Sector (melting, electroplating, galvanizing and other similar effluent generating
operations are not recommended in this sector),

 Chemical Industries Sector,

 Machinery and Equipment Sector,

 Mineral products sector,

 Food Processing

 Paper and Paper Board Articles,

 Leather products excluding tanneries

 Timber and Wood products,

 Transport Sector and Warehouse facility

When the EPZ came under the purview of the BOI, the green light was given for the above type of
industries having minimum discharge of waste water. Hitherto 22 investors have tentatively reserved
land in the Zone. They are related to vehicle assembling industry, logistics, machinery and Equipment
Sector, mineral products sector etc. as listed above

The entire management of the EPZ will be undertaken by the BOI. The establishment of the relevant
infrastructure facilities such as electricity will be conducted by the CEB while the establishment of water
supply network and waste water network will be conducted by the NWSDB. Further, a storm water
network has also been prepared for the proposed project.

2.1.4.2. Type of raw materials and chemicals to be used in the industries, sources and
quantities
The BOI is yet in the process of receiving project proposals. However each project application will be
individually assessed for ensuring compliance with the approval granted for this EIAR.

2.1.4.3. Total water requirement and source


NWSDB is designing water supply facilities for the proposed expansion of Mirijjawila EPZ. The total
water requirement for the entire EPZ has been estimated as 6500 m3 /day .With the average demand
for water losses, the design capacity of water distribution system is 8200 m3 /day. For this purpose the
NWSDB would construct a 2000 m3 capacity elevated water tower, a 1000 m3 capacity Ground reservoir
with a high lift pump house at Mirijjawila BOI premises. The feasibility Report in connection with the
provision of water arrangements submitted to the BOI by NWSDB is attached herewith (Annex 4 b).

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

2.1.4.4. Waste Water Treatment


The industries are expected to treat their effluents prior to sending it to the common waste water
treatment plant. The waste water quality will be regularly checked to see whether such effluents will be
within the pre-treatment limits stated in the Environmental Norms published by the BOI for discharge
of waste water in to common waste water treatment plant Refer. Annex 4 c of the waste water
treatment report of NWSDB for the pre-treatment limits).

2.1.4.5. Common Waste Water treatment Plant


The NWSDB is designing, constructing and operating the common wastewater treatment plant at the
EPZ. The treatment plant process, relevant drawings and the location of the plant are given in Annex 4
c. Since the proposed EPZ is not having polluting or water based industries the wastewater reaching the
common treatment plant is not expected to contain heavy metals or any other toxic compounds.

Treated wastewater is expected to be first released to Tank 1 of Hambantota Botanical gardens which is
in the adjoining land (Refer Annex 4 c). This water will not be used for irrigation of the garden. The spill
water of this tank falls to Tank 2 of Hambantota Botanical gardens and the spill water or water
extracted from sluice will in turn go to the paddy area downstream. This paddy area is very small
(Approximately 4.6Ha). Since water will be treated to the desired standard there cannot be any impact
on the downstream area. However, extreme care would be taken to treat the effluent up to required
standards for use of irrigation. Regular monitoring would be done to ensure that the treated
wastewater meets the required standards.

The sludge generated in the common treatment plant will be dried on sand beds and would be disposed
with the rest of the solid waste in a landfill within the zone. Since there are no polluting industries the
sludge can be safely disposed in this manner.

2.1.4.6. Waste Water Flow Generation


The total land area of the proposed EPZ at Mirijjawila is about 563.4 acres (228 ha) and the land
allocation for the industrial activities is 306.16 acres (123.9 ha). As per the water consumption
calculations done by BOI for existing industrial zone, about 20m3/day/acre water requirement is
justifiable for low water consuming industries. Hence water allocation of 20m3/day/acre is considered
for Mirijjawila based on BOI recommendation due to absence of information from the industries. It is
assumed that 85% of the water consumption is converted as wastewater and infiltration is taken as
10%. A peak factor of 2.5 is taken for the sewer network design (Refer Table 6).

Therefore total water demand of the industrial zone = 6440m3/day

The average wastewater flow = 6021m3/day

= 6000m3/day

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Table 6. Details on Waste Water Flow Generation

Wastewater Collection Network Standard Adopted


Parameter

Wastewater Quality As per BOI Pre-treatment standards (i.e. Domestic nature - after
appropriate industry specific pretreatment)

Minimum Pipe Diameter 160mm

Pipe Material uPVC Type 600 suitable for mechanical joints up to 280mm and
larger diameters are DI to BS EN 598

Minimum Clear Cover 0.9m (minimum invert 1.05m) from proposed finish ground level

Maximum Depth 4.5m


Maximum Manhole Spacing 60m
Manhole Diameter 600mm dia Ductile Iron to BS EN 124
Minimum Slope 1:150 for 160mm sewers
Minimum Tractive Force (Ʈmin) 1.1N/m2
Pipe Colour Sewers-Brown
Re use- Red
Pipe Layout
Average Flow Per Hectare 0.5 l/s based on 20m3/d/acre water demand with 10% infiltration
Peak Factor 2.5
Peak Flow Per Hectare 1.2 l/s @ 75% full condition
Sewage force main

Pipe Material For Sewage Force Main uPVC Type 1000

Pipe Work Inside Pumping Station DI to BS EN 598


Type of Pumps Submersible wet well (1duty 1 standby)
Source: Report on Wastewater collection, treatment and re use system, Mirijjawila export processing zone
,NWSDB

2.1.4.7. Storm water drainage


A storm water drainage plan has been prepared by BOI for the project premises where the main
features of the plan are roadside drains and culverts to drain off the storm water of the project
premises. Rectangular concrete drains and concrete box culverts will be used as proposed in the plan.
Storm water of the project area will flow towards tanks within the project area. The Storm water
drainage plan of the proposed EPZ prepared by BOI is given in Figure 5.

25
MIRIJJAWILA EXPORT PROCESSING ZONE
PROPOSED STORM WATER DRAIN

From
Suryawewa
LAND RESERVATION
N
Lot No. Land Extent Company
Ha/Acres)

16 - 29 11.24/27.77 Senok Trade


1+300

0+720
nk 0+500

1+320
, ta 0+740 Ocean Shipping
1+240
0+480

P0 A S ump lities
i 1+340
35 - 36 2.04/5.04
0+760

1+220
0+460
ter fac 1+360

0+780

1+200
0+440
Wa other
1+380
& 0+800

1+180

0+42
0
1+400 Indra Traders
4 a
0+820

1+160
39 - 46 4.28/10.57
1+420 0+4
8H 00

0+840

CH 40 1+14
7.7 0+
380
1+4
0

0+860
CH
60
1+4

0+
1+1

360
20
2
480 0+880
1+

ry
1+ CH
100

500

da
Global Wings

1+
47 - 50

un
2.02/5.00

20
1+

1+5
080

Bo
ry
40
1+5

da
1+0
60

e
un
60
ing

1+5
1+0
40

ton
Bo
ark

80
1+5
P

1+0
20

AS
e
1+0
00

RD
20
1+6

ton
New Castle Logistics

40
Maga
3.46/8.60

AS
51-56

1+6
0+9
60

60
CH

RD
1+6
0+9
40

80
1+6
0+9
20
CH

00
1+7
0+9
00

Par
20
1+7
0+8
80

740
1+
0+8
60

kin
57- 62 FMJ Logistics (Pvt) Ltd

g
0+
0
76
2.94 / 7.26

840
1+

0+
82
0
780
1+

0+
800

m)
6.0
87 2.15 / 5.31 Venture Ceylon

n(
tio
0 0+72
1+86 0

rva
0+700

e
1+880

s
Road
0+680

Re
1+900
88 2.25 /5.56 Royal Trading Japan
0+660

nal
New
1+920

Ca
0+640

TANK 1+940

0+620

C1 1+960

C5 0+600
77-86,78a,89-94, 20.3/50.16 Micro Cars Ltd
1+980
0+580
0 + 580
0
2+00
0+56
0
101-103,104
40
0+5

2+0
20

520
0+

2+

0
040

50
0+
63-76,68a 9.70/23.97 Ideal Motors

480

2+
0+

06
0
60
0+4

New High Way


2+0
80
0+440
0+420
0+400
0+380

2+1
00
2+120
2+160

2+140
Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

95 - 98 3.25/8.03 Logiventures (Pvt) Ltd.

99,100,100a 2.51/6.20 LOLC


P5D
de 105 4.66/11.51 Global Auto Engineering
Tra
ok
Se n C2
P5
105a 5.13/12.67 Diesel & Motor
Engineering Plc
C6
td. td.
t) L t) L 106 - 109 5.14/12.7 R N Construction (Pvt) Ltd.
A (Pv gs (Pv
CSAHoldin
ten
H eigh
110 - 115,110a 6.131/15.15 Master Divers

TANK P6D 116 1.54/3.81 Prestige Coach Builders


BS
BS BS

BS

e 117(Cashew 4.046/10.0 Euro Nippon Auto City


stig
Pre ach Corporation land)
48 ean Co ders
il
47
Oc ping Bu
ip 118,119 4.58/11.32 Ceylon Sourthern Auto
Sh
Auction (Pvt) Ltd.
BS
50
123 4.07/10.05 MAGAEngineering
BS (Pvt) Ltd
r
52 ste
Ma vers
i 124 2.04/5.04 Western Garnet Lanka
BS Dr
42
(Pvt) Ltd.
54
53 C11
BS
tle P7
C as
New istics
L o g 55 C4
BS n
ctio
56 0 tru
C1 C ons Ltd.
B

R N (Pvt)
BS
B

BS
C8

700 BS C9

Figure 5. The Storm water drainage plan of the proposed EPZ


0+
BS

an
BS Jap
BS ing
BS a d )
Tr .0 m
(6
yal tion
Ro rva
ese
an al R vt
C sP
ure
ent
giv Ltd
Lo
BS

P10
ter
Wa nt
Ma

aste nt Pla BS BS
To in R
o

W tme
a Ha BS
ad

Tre 5.40
BS BS
Balance Portion of BS
Sup 36 in FVP 66 BS Sup 38 in
FVP 54
id
Sol l BS
BS d BS
for sposa
BS BS BS
BS BS
Lan ste Di Ha
Wa 3.15 BS BS BS
BS BS
BS BS
BS

Sup 10 in
BS
BS BS
FVP 66
Sup 36 in FVP 66 Road
( Laugfs Holding )
Mi

BS
r
To ijjaw
ila

411 B
411GB

PROPOSED STORM WATER DRAIN


1.26 Ha 1.25 Ha
Sup 21 in
FVP 54 411GC1A
Total land area - 228.88 Ha /565.56 Acres 411GC1A
. 0.61 Ha
Total Industrial area - 130.684Ha / 322.92 Acres SCALE 1 : 8000 411GC1B
0.61 Ha
. 0.61 Ha
411DA2
DRAWING No : BOI/MJEPZ/2013/RD/SW - 01/R1 411GC2

0.82 Ha
0.994 Ha
DATE : 2013.06.04 124 411GC1B

.0.61 Ha
REVISION
26

Letter Description Revised By Date 8

R1 Included new culvert C12 culvert location at MBTVS 2013.10.15


P6 point.
Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

2.1.4.8. Quantities and type of Waste Generation


An over view of the types of industries proposed to be installed in the EPZ along with the pollutants
associated with these industries are given in Table 7. In addition to the pollutants listed in the Table, all
the industries would be generating sewage or municipal waste water.

Table 7. An overview of typical waste generated from the proposed industries in the Mirijjawila EPZ

Sector of Industries Sub Sector Waste water Solid Waste Air Emissions
Basic Metal Structural Metal Products Wash waters, Scrap metals
(Melting, Fabricated Metal Detergents Scrap metal, chips
electroplating, Products (metal cans, of steel and Al, None
galvanizing and boxes, containers, residues of paint
other similar fabricated wire ,cable and off cuts,
effluent generating etc)
operations are Cutlery, hand tools and
excluded) general hardware
Metal Furniture &
fixtures (Metal blinds,
screens ,shades etc)

Chemical Industries Basic Industrial chemicals None None None


– Manufacture of dry ice
(Industrial Effluent
generating activities Plastic and related Wash waters Plastic pellets, PM
are excluded) products containing detergents Containers of raw
(PVC pipes , table ware, material and
kitchen ware, foot ware Packaging material
etc..)

Perfumes (Excluding VOC


bottle washing activities)

Other Chemicals Wash waters with Containers of left None


(Incense, camphor, joss detergents, spills of over raw materials,
sticks, candles, matches, essential oils packaging
abrasive etc) material,

Food Sector Fruits and vegetables Wash waters Rotten fruits and None
vegetables (Peel
offs, seeds)
Fish, Crustacean and Wash waters Fish waste None
Similar Foods (drying (Offal ,bowels )
fish)
Grain mills Wash waters Packing material Dust
Bakery products Wash Waters Packing material None
( Egg Shells/flour
rejects)
Cocoa/ chocolate/ sugar Wash waters Packing material None
confectionaries(Toffees,
lozenges, jugery etc)

27
Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Food products Wash waters Packing material None


(Yeast, Tea, pea nuts,
glucose etc)
Vegetable, animal oil and Wash waters Packing material None
fats (Cinnamon Oil,
Sandal Wood oil, Pepper
oil, Nutmeg oil etc)
Tobacco manufacture Packing material None

Machinery and Office and Computing Containers, Paper,


Equipment related Machinery soil and rags
(electroplating, (Assembly of type
galvanizing and writers, weighing
other similar wet machines, duplicating
operations machines etc)
excluded) Radio, television &
communication related
equipment (Assembly of
telephone, fax machines
,radio , TV)
Electrical Appliances and
house wares
(Assembly of rice
cookers, washing
machines etc)
Professional and
Scientific Equipment
(Assembly of barometer ,
chemical balance etc)
Photographic and optical
goods (Assembly of
cameras , eye glass,
lenses , spectacles)
Watches and clocks None None None
Solar wafers, cells and Acid, bases, solvent
panels excluding from residues (proposed
purified Silicone (silicone for recycling)
purification and
manufacture of Pb/ Cd
cells excluded)
Jewellery and related
industries
Musical instruments None None None
(Mfg & repair of Piano,
Organs ,Guitar etc)
Other light industries None Containers of raw
Engines and turbines materials,
(Assembly of steam/gas packaging
/hydraulic turbines) material
Agricultural machinery

28
Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Metal and wood working


machinery
Specific industrial
process machinery
(Mfg of machineries used
in Tea , Rubber &
coconut etc industries)
Machinery and
equipment except
electrical equipment
(Sewing machines,
elevators, escalators)
Electrical industrial
machinery and apparatus

Electrical apparatus &


supplies Compressor gas
Others emissions
(needles , pins, fasteners
Printed Circuit Boards
(PCB), Zippers )
Mineral and China ware, pottery Containers of raw PM, Dust
Products material
Clay products
(Sun Dried bricks/tiles)

Glass and Glass products

Nonmetallic mineral
products
(Structural concrete
products., pencils ,
crayons ,sand paper,
emery paper, abrasives.
etc)

Paper and paper Manufacture of paper Containers, Dust, PM


board articles products packaging
material
Leather Leather Products and Wash waters Off cuts,
(Tanneries substitutes containing containers,
excluded) ( Luggage , Hand bags, detergents, solvents, Packaging
wallets, shoes, slippers , pigments, color, material
sandals ) acids/ alkali

29
Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Timber and Wood Furniture Spills of Saw dust, off cuts Dust, PM
(Wooden items (Windows, door frames, preservatives, wash
excluding boron shades, screens, box waters with
treatment) beds, corks, wooden detergents
shoes, wooden baskets,
barrels , drums etc)

Transport Motor cycles and Bicycles Oil, solvents residue Scrap metal, off
cuts

Ship Building (Barges, sail Sanding dust


boats, catamarans, tug Resin –off cuts
boats ..etc)
Motor Vehicles
(Assembly & Mfg jeeps ,
buses , coaches, etc)
Air Craft( Chopper etc)
Transport Equipment-
(Horse Carriages etc)
Rail road Equipment
(Locomotives etc)

Warehouse Facility Dust

2.1.4.9. Solid Waste Management


The type of solid waste that is generated from the EPZ is also given in Table 7. A site having 3.5 ha has
been set aside for solid waste management in the Zone. There are no concrete plans for the
management of solid waste on site but adoption of an integrated solid waste management strategy
which would include recycling (collection of scrap metal, glass, plastics for recycling) and composting of
organic bio degradable waste could be recommended.

2.1.4.10. Sources of air emission and control


The types of air emissions and sources are given in Table 7. Since the air emissions are minimal special
control measures are not proposed.

2.1.4.11. Sources of noise and vibration control


The sources of noise and vibration are given in Table 7. Since the noise and vibration levels are minimal
special control measures are not proposed except for maintaining a buffer of vegetation right around
the premises. However During the operation stage, it will be ensured that the industries will be
accommodated in accordance to the noise zoning map given in this EIAR for ensuring proper
noise/vibration control.

2.1.4.1. Total energy requirement and source


The Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) has given their consent to provide electricity supply for the proposed
project (Refer Annex 4 d)

30
Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

2.1.5. Other infrastructure developments required


The establishment of the Mirijjawila EPZ involves the incorporation of the existing Mirijjawila Industrial
Park which was established by the BOI in the year 1999.When it is developed the new layout of
internal roads will link with the internal road of the existing industrial park area. As the existing
internal road is being maintained in a good condition, an improvement to the same is not envisaged
immediately. Further major alteration to the existing roads is not envisaged.

The new roads will be constructed based on the designs and supervision of the RDA to conform to
standards to accommodate heavy vehicle transportation.

The main access to the EPZ will be provided from the newly constructed Highway leading to Mattala
Airport and Hambantota, located along the western perimeter of the Zone.

The lay out plan of the services line of the proposed zone is shown in below (figure 6).

31
LAY OUT PLAN OF PROPOSED MIRIJJAWILA EXPORT PROCESSING ZONE
PROPOSED LAYOUT PLAN FOR SERVICE LINES (WATER
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK (WITH FIRE HYDRENT)

From
DETAILS OF ROAD SERVICE LINES

Suryawewa
NN
Road Road width Road
Sections
1-1 33.0 m P0 - P11
1+300

0+720

0+500

1+320
(4 Lane)
0+740

1+240
0+480
Water t
en 1+340 2-2
Treatm 0+760

1+220
0+460

1+360
Plant 0+780

1+200
0+440

1+380

0+800

1+180
0+42
0
4 1+400
11-11 P6C - P6D
a 0+820

1+160

1+420 0+4
7.78 H 00

0+840

CH 40
1+14
P1 B 0+
380
1+4
0

0+860
CH 60
1+4

0+
1+1

360
20

1+
480
0+880
12-12

ry
1+ CH
100

500

da
1+

un
20
1+

1+5
080

Bo
ry
40
1+5

da
1+0
60
g

e
60

un
1+5
kin

1+0
20 - 20

40

ton
Bo
80

S
1+5
Par

1+0
20

DA
e
1+0

R
00

20
P1

1+6

ton
40
Maga

1+6

AS
0+9
60

60
CH

RD
1+6
0+9
40

80
1+6
0+9
20
CH

00
5-5

5
1+7
P1A - P1B

0+9
00

20
1+7
0+8
80

740
1+

Par
0+8
60

0+
0
76

840
1+

kin

5
0+
82
0
26.5 m

g
780
1+

0+
800
6-6 P2 - P2A
l

)
ane g (2 Lane)

0m
ar P rin

(6.
Sol factu
u ct

n
n 10-10 P5A - P6A

tio
0+72
Ma Proje 0
1+86 0

va
0+700
1+880

ser
Road
0+680

Re
1+900

l
9-9 P5B - P7B
0+660

na
New
1+920

Ca
0+640

TANK 1+940

0+620

1+960
13-13,14-14 P7 - P7C
0+600

1+980
0+580

0
0+56
2+00
0
PiT P7B - P10A
40
0+5
Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

2+0
20

520
15-15,16-16
0+
P3 B
2+

0
040

50
0+
MH

480

2+
0+

06
0
60
0+4
P3B - P3

New High Way


2+0
80
0+440
17 - 17

0+420
0+400
0+380

2+1
00
2+120
2+160

2+140
18 - 18 P3A - P4A
e
rad
o kT
Sen 3-3 P0A - P7C
4-4 26.5 m
(4 Lane)
7-7 P5C- P5
8-8
19 - 19 P4 - P4B
td. td.
) L t) L
(Pvt s (Pv
AA ng
MH CS Holdi
g h ten
Hei
a
0H
MH 1 .0

8
TANK
BS 8
BS BS
PBS5C
e
g stig
pin Pre ach
o
7
S hip C ders
il
ean Bu
Oc

Global
BS Wings
e rs
rad
ra T
BS Ind

ster
Ma vers
BS
9 r
9 Di

BS

BS

Figure 6. The lay out plan for services line of the proposed zone
n
AD ctio
RO tru
4 C ons Ltd
)
4 R N (Pv t
BS

9
C ics
BS P6 ist 9
L og td
20

J t)l
FM (Pv P7 B
BS
Ltd
ars
cr oC
BS Mi

MH
P7BSCBS
BS )
.0 m
n (6
r vatio
ese
al R vt
Can
es P
en tur
giv Ltd
Lo
MH

BS tor
Mo LC
esel & ring P
Di ginee
En
Water
Ma

BS BS
Waste t Plant
en
Treatm
T o in R

BS
oa

a
d

5.40 H
32

BS BS
Balance Portion of BS
Sup 36 in FVP 66 BS Sup 38 in
e
mil FVP 54
nS
MH ild u ther Zone
for So BS So uto
BS Land isposal A t) Ltd
Sewer Collection Network D BS BS
Waste BS BS (Pv
BS BS
a BS BS BS
3.15 H BS BS
BS BS
Water Distribution Network BS

Sup 10 in
BS
BS BS
FVP 66
Road Center Line Sup 36 in FVP 66
5 Road
( Laugfs Holding )
Mi

BS
r

6
T o ijja w

Proposed Locations of Fire Hydrent


ila

411 B
411GB

Total land area - 228.88 Ha / 565.56 Acres 1.26 Ha 1.25 Ha


Total Industrial area - 123.92 Ha / 306.21 Acres Sup 21 in
SCALE 1:4000 FVP 54 411GC1A
411GC1A
REVISION . 0.61 Ha
411GC1B 7 0.61 Ha
Letter Description Revised By Date . 0.61 Ha
411DA2
411GC2
R1 Identificationof HT & LT Line MBTVS 2013.10.07
0.82 Ha
Included - Road Sections 17 - 17,18 - 18,19 - 19,20 - 20 0.994 Ha
411GC1B
R2 Marked 10m Reservation for Storm Water Drain from lot 69,70 MBTVS 2014.03.18
.0.61 Ha
Marked 10m Reservation for Storm Water Drain from 9 2.04 Ha
lot 100,100a
8
R3 Deleted Water Lines - P8A - P10A,P6B - P6A, P5B - P6B MBTVS 2014.04.24
DRAWING No : BOI/MIP/INF/2013/LAYOUT/R4
P1A - P1,P5A - P6A
Marked Locations of Fire Hydrent
R3 Storm Water Line from P7C - P7B Shifted South to
DATE : 2013.01.09
MBTVS 2014.07.07
Royal Trading Boundry
Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

2.1.6. Details on pre-construction, Construction activities, phased


implementation schedule
The pre-construction activities include surveying comprising the preparation of contour-plan, soil
investigations, field inspections to identify special features of the area, etc. Following preliminary work,
designs for internal road network, water supply & distribution network, water sumps/collection, and
treatment & disposal network will be undertaken.

The construction stage will be sub-divided into several phases as shown in the implementation
programme. Initially the construction of internal road network up to the level of completion of earth
work together with construction of culverts are planned to be carried out.

Thereafter, it is planned to lay the utility lines pertaining to water, wastewater,


telecommunication, etc. and also erect the electrical poles. On completion of the said utility lines which
have to be laid along the shoulders of road platform, permanent surfacing of road carriageway and
walkways, drains, etc. will be constructed.

The phased out construction programme of the Mirijjawila EPZ has been given in Table 8

2.1.7. Labour force requirement, time frame of the project and support
facilities and services.
On completion of the construction phase of the project, the BOI Zone Office will be expanded to
accommodate units which will provide facilitation to the investors, work force of enterprises and
other parties. Most vital units will be set up within a common building housing. BOI departments will
be Investor Services Unit, Labour Relations Unit, Zone Management and Engineering Units, etc.

The Implementation programme of the project is shown in table 8.

33
Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Table 8. Implementation programme of the project.

34
Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

2.1.8. Methodology of operation of project components and maintenance


activities
The project components which have to be operated could be summarized as follows;

2.1.8.1. Verification, customs & Security Functions


BOI will establish its own units to carry out functions related to the above activities as and when
required and as relevant, the assistance and co-operation of other institutions will be sought.

With regard to fire fighting accepts, the Zone will obtain the assistance of the Fire Unit of Hambantota
Municipal Council through a contractual arrangement. Additional support will be requested from
the Sri Lanka Ports Authority and Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) Ltd who will have their own
fire fighting units.

2.1.8.2. Other Zonal Functions


Facilitation to investors by providing necessary approvals and other assistance will be provided by the
Common Office of the BOI.

2.1.8.3. Operation & Maintenance of Infrastructure


For the maintenance of internal roads, common areas and road reservations of the Zone, street lamps
etc. the assistance of Contractors will be obtained.

With regard to the water supply and wastewater collection, treatment & disposal schemes, a
specialized engineering organization such as NWS&DB or a private firm will be contracted.

Similarly for other operations such as solid waste & sludge management, clearing, building maintenance,
etc. Contractors in the respective specializations will be contracted.

2.1.8.4. Project cost, investment and funding sources


Estimated project cost is as follows (Table 9).

Table 9. Preliminary E s t i m a t e for Proposed Mirijjawlla Export Processing Zone

2013/2014 Expenditure as at
Capital Expenditure
Rs. Mn 31.12.2014 Rs. Mn
1 Preliminary work including soil investigations, surveys, preparation
25 7
of EIA report, etc.
2 33kVA internal distribution system & street lighting 93 0
3
Construction of perimeter fence using chain link mesh fence
26.4
Including electric fence
85
4
Construction of internal road area finished with asphalt paving
Asphalt paving = 350 Mn Sub base finishes = 675.0 Mn 1425 240.3
ABC laying = 200 Mn Walkways - 200.0 Mn

5 Water supply, storage & distribution system 250 16.2


6 Construction of Common wastewater treatment plant &
200
collection/disposal system 0
7 Construction of storm water drains Per meter= Rs.20,OOO.00 196 0

35
Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

8 Land development (allow) 100 0


9 Administration Building & other buildings 150 0
10 Preparation of solid waste disposal area 30 0
11 Entrance structures, gates, etc 20 0
12 Landscaping 20 0
13 Miscellaneous items of work, contingencies, etc(Payment for
105 13.5
Timber Co., Cashew Co., Project Cor. and rectification works)
Total 2,699 303.4

The infrastructure facilities will be developed by the BOI utilizing BOI funds.

2.2. Evaluation of Alternatives


Several sites were inspected and assessed for the purpose of identifying a most suitable site. After
considering compatibility of the sites with the Master Plans and Zoning maps prepared for the area,
distance to the seaport, availability of infrastructure facilities, access to major road networks, etc., the
present site was selected.

Further the construction of basic infrastructure facilities such as roads, power lines are already in place
by the RDA, NWSDB etc in the present site. Therefore the land use of the proposed zone which is scrub
vegetation is rather scattered due to the openings. In this context the no action alternative does not
serve any purpose and therefore rejected.

Design alternatives were considered in the layout of roads, cross section of roads, layout of utility lines
and infrastructure design. (Refer Figure 6).With regard to technology selection and construction
techniques, aspects such as appropriateness to the site conditions, ability to achieve the required
standards and quality parameters within the minimum expenditure are considered.

36
Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Chapter 3
Description of the Existing
Environment

37
Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

3. Description of the Existing Environment


3.1. Study area
The proposed project is located in Mirijjawila, in the Hambanthota District in the Southern Province of
Sri Lanka. The Project area falls into the DS Division of Hambanthota

The study site comprises of the actual BOI land of 228 ha and 500m from the boundary of it. In addition
to this information was collected on areas that have potential to be affected by the Project.

3.2. Physical Environment


3.2.1. Topography
Topography of the area consists of rolling undulating terrain sloping towards the existing tanks. The
topography is such that there is no dense network of natural streams. However on the topography
many dormant creeks (Ara) are visible and these creeks become temporarily active during heavy rains in
North East Monsoon. According to the contour information in the 1:10,000 scale topographic maps and
the recent topographic maps, no visible valleys or hillocks are seen in the project area. Ground levels
vary from 10m MSL to 25m MSL. Figure 7 shows the topography map of the project area.

38
Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Figure 7 Topography and land use map of the project area

39
Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

3.2.2. Climate
3.2.2.1. Temperature
Temperatures in the project area are high and uniform throughout the year. Mean annual temperature
is 270 C and mean maximum and minimum temperatures are 300 C and 240 C respectively. Diurnal
variations in temperature average about 60 C. The climate graph for Hambanthota District is presented
in Figure 8 below which indicates maximum minimum and average temperatures, relative humidity,
rainfall, number of wet days etc.

Figure 8. Climate Graph for Hambanthota District

Source: http://www.climatetemp.info/sri-lanka/Hambanthota.html

3.2.2.2. Rainfall
Hambanthota has a relatively drier climate than most of the other parts of the island and average
annual rainfall is around 1045mm according to the isohyetal map. Rainfall is a bi-model where rainfall
peaks occur in April for South West monsoon and in November for North East monsoon. There is
significantly less rain from January–March and again from June–August.

Monthly rainfall variation in Hambanthota is given in Figure 9 and the Isohyetal map is given in Figure10

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Rainfall (mm)

MonthlyRainfall
11
(mm)
Figure 9. Monthly rainfall variation in Hambanthota

Project Area

Figure 10. Isohyetal Map of the Country with the Project Area

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

3.2.2.3. Rainfall Intensity


Rainfall and Intensity Duration Frequency [IDF] Curves relevant to the Mirijjawila EPZ project area is
shown in Figure 11 while the data is shown in Table 10.

RAINFALL INTENSITY DURATIOIN FREQUENCY CURVES


STATION HAMBANTOTA

250

200
Rainfall Intensity (mm/hr)

150

100

50

0
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70
2yr: I= 1566*[t+17]^-0.82985
10yr:I= 3074*[t+32]^-0.85164 Duration (min)
50yr:I= 4848*[t+42]^-0.87402
100yr:I= 5618*[t+45]^-0.88033
2Yr 50Yr 10Yr 100yr

Figure 11. Rainfall Intensity Frequency Duration Curves

(Source: Meteorology Station, Hambanthota)

Table 10. Details of Rainfall Intensity Hambanthota for 2, 10, 50 and 100 year periods

Rainfall Intensity mm/hr


Time (Min) 2Yr 10Yr 50Yr 100yr
0 149.2 160.6 184.8 196.9
1 142.3 156.5 181.1 193.1
2 136.0 152.6 177.5 189.5
3 130.4 148.8 174.0 186.0
4 125.2 145.3 170.7 182.7
5 120.4 142.0 167.5 179.4
6 116.1 138.8 164.5 176.3
7 112.1 135.7 161.5 173.4
8 108.3 132.8 158.7 170.5
9 104.9 130.1 156.0 167.7
10 101.6 127.4 153.4 165.0
11 98.6 124.9 150.8 162.4
12 95.8 122.5 148.4 159.9
13 93.1 120.2 146.0 157.5
14 90.6 117.9 143.8 155.1
15 88.3 115.8 141.5 152.8
16 86.0 113.7 139.4 150.6
17 83.9 111.8 137.3 148.5
18 81.9 109.8 135.3 146.4
19 80.0 108.0 133.4 144.4
20 78.2 106.2 131.5 142.4
21 76.5 104.5 129.7 140.5
22 74.9 102.9 127.9 138.7
23 73.3 101.3 126.2 136.9
24 71.8 99.7 124.5 135.1
25 70.4 98.2 122.9 133.4 42
26 69.1 96.8 121.3 131.8
27 67.8 95.4 119.8 130.2
28 66.5 94.1 118.3 128.6
16 86.0 113.7 139.4 150.6
17 83.9 111.8 137.3 148.5
18 81.9 109.8 135.3 146.4
Final EIA Report for19
the Proposed Export80.0
Processing Zone (EPZ),108.0
Mirijjawila, Hambanthota
133.4 144.4
20 78.2 106.2 131.5 142.4
21 76.5 104.5 129.7 140.5
22 74.9 102.9 127.9 138.7
23 73.3 101.3 126.2 136.9
24 71.8 99.7 124.5 135.1
25 70.4 98.2 122.9 133.4
26 69.1 96.8 121.3 131.8
27 67.8 95.4 119.8 130.2
28 66.5 94.1 118.3 128.6
29 65.3 92.7 116.8 127.1
30 64.2 91.5 115.4 125.6
31 63.0 90.2 114.0 124.1
32 62.0 89.0 112.7 122.7
33 60.9 87.9 111.4 121.3
34 59.9 86.7 110.1 120.0
35 59.0 85.6 108.8 118.6
36 58.1 84.5 107.6 117.4
37 57.2 83.5 106.4 116.1
38 56.3 82.5 105.3 114.9
39 55.5 81.5 104.1 113.7
40 54.7 80.5 103.0 112.5
41 53.9 79.6 101.9 111.3
42 53.1 78.7 100.9 110.2
43 52.4 77.8 99.8 109.1
44 51.7 76.9 98.8 108.0
45 51.0 76.0 97.8 107.0
46 50.3 75.2 96.8 105.9
47 49.7 74.4 95.9 104.9
48 49.0 73.6 95.0 103.9
49 48.4 72.8 94.0 102.9
50 47.8 72.1 93.1 102.0
51 47.2 71.3 92.3 101.0
52 46.6 70.6 91.4 100.1
53 46.1 69.9 90.6 99.2
54 45.6 69.2 89.7 98.3
55 45.0 68.5 88.9 97.5
56 44.5 67.9 88.1 96.6
57 44.0 67.2 87.4 95.8
58 43.5 66.6 86.6 95.0
59 43.1 66.0 85.9 94.2
60 42.6 65.4 85.1 93.4

3.2.3. Monthly Average Wind Speed and Dominant Directions


Monthly average wind speeds and dominant directions for Hambanthota for the period 1988-2005 are
given below in Table 11. (Adapted from IEE Report Sooriyawewa International Cricked Stadium- original
source Meteorological Department)

Table 11. Average Wind Speed and Dominant Directions

Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun July Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Mean Wind Speed km/hr 22.5 19.9 16.4 14.5 22.5 23.6 23.1 24.2 23.1 17.6 14.1 18.8

Dominant wind direction NE NE NE VRB SW SW SW SW SW SW VRB NE

NE= Northeast VRB= Variable SW=South West

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

3.2.4. .Hydrology and Drainage Pattern


In Hambanthota, because of the spatial and seasonal distribution of the rainfall, the distribution of
natural drainage system consisting of major rivers, medium rivers and minor streams and lagoons tend
to contribute to the natural drainage. In addition to this, there are numerous man made canals built
from the ULBIP.

However, the drainage pattern across the project area is somewhat simple because of the absence of a
dense stream network except for few dormant Ara’s which too are hardly prominent. (Figure 12).
Presence of two tanks, mainly non perennial streams, dormant creeks (Ara) which flow in the directions
of tanks constitute the drainage pattern of the project area. Because of the irrigation system, design
water flow direction in the canals does not strictly follow the topographic levels. However the off canal
natural drainage paths have been directed to non-perennial streams, tanks, drainage canals in the
paddy areas, dormant creeks in valleys. The final drainage is directed to Maha Sittarakala Lewaya.

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Figure 12. Drainage Pattern in Mirijjawila EPZ

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

3.2.5. Geology
The proposed Mirijjawila Export Processing Zone is located near to the Highland Complex -Vijayan
Complex boundary area (Cooray, 1984; 1994). General geological formations in the proposed area are
shown in Figure 13. Major rock types present in the area are granitic gneiss and hornblende biotite gneiss.
In addition, biotite hornblende gneiss, garnet biotite gneiss with graphite, undifferentiated charnockite
and meta gabro are also present.

Figure 13. Geology Map of the Project area

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

3.2.5.1. Structural Geology of the study site


The study area is located on a sound basement rock and no weak zones are identified in Arial
photographical studies. There are two weak shear zones present in the eastern and western ends of the
total study area and a major thrust zone is available in the western corner, all the weaker zones are
located away from the proposed study site as shown in Figure 14.

Figure 14. Structural geology map in relation to the proposed project area

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

3.2.6. Soils
Major soil types present in the proposed study area are Reddish Brown Earth with higher amount of
gravel and Reddish Brown Earth with Solodized Solonetz. However, alluvial soils are also present around
the proposed study area. The soils in the project area are shown in Figure 15. More information on the
soils types found in the project area is shown in Annex 6.

Figure 15. Soils distribution in the project area

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

3.2.7. Field evidences of soils and rocks in proposed Mirijjawila export


processing zone

Layer A

Fig. A. Profile of reddish brown earth in the proposed


Mirijjawila export processing zone; layer A indicate less
Layer B humic surface soils, layer B denote the clay rich reddish
brown loams.

(Location: N 60 07' 32'', E 810 04'


39'')

Fig. B. Field evidences for


hardening with fracturing in
reddish brown earth during the
dry period.

Fractures
(Location: N 60 07' 59'', E 810 04'
13'')

Quartz

Rill erosion
Fig. C. Weathering evidences of reddish brown earth just after exposed to the minor rain fall, rill
formations and primary quartz can be able to identify clearly in the figures. (Location: N 60 07' 59'',
E 810 04' 13'')

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Fig. D. Hornblende biotite gneiss


rocks available in Mirijjawila
proposed EPZ site.
(location: N 60 07' 59'', E 810 04' 13'')

Fig. E. Granitic gneiss (pink


granite) rocks available in
Mirijjawila proposed EPZ site.

(location: N 60 08' 01'', E


8104' 14'')

3.2.8. Water Resources


3.2.8.1. Surface water
There are few tanks and water holes in the project area. They are not being used for agriculture but
rather used for domestic level activities by neighboring people. In addition to this there are tanks
outside the EPZ which are used for irrigation and bathing, washing and other domestic activities.

3.2.8.2. Surface water quality


The locations at which the surface water quality sampling was taken, to represent the project area and
the impact area is shown in Table 1 and Figure1 in Chapter 1. The results of the surface water quality
are shown in Table 12.

According to the analyzed results of the water quality parameters in the project area, the Turbidity &
TSS levels of samples taken from M1, M5, M6 and M7 are higher than the recommended level as
indicated in SLS 614: 1983, Part 1 & Part 2- Specification for Potable water. Further the Hardness,
Sulphate, COD and BOD levels are very high in samples taken from M3 and M4 while the microbiological
parameters of the Sample taken from M2 are not within the normal limits.

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Table 12. Surface water quality of the project area

Parameter Test Method Permissible limits for Sample Results


Potable water
(SLSI614: 1983,Part1 &
2)
PHYSICAL QUALITIES Acceptable Allowabl M1 M2 M3 M4 M5(D M6(DB M7(DBZ
e BZ) Z) )
Color mg/l Pt-Co APHA 2120C 5 units 30 units 80 110 1 1 32 1 230
Turbidity NTU APHA 2130 B 2 8 14 33 2 1 47 18 184
Suspended Solids mg/l Gravimetry Nil - 27 41 8 6 70 13 257
CHEMICAL QUALITIES
pH Electrometry 7.0 -8.5 5.0 –8.5 6.2 7.5 7.2 7.5 7.6 7.7 7.4
Total Dissolved Solids mg/l TDS meter Titrimetry – 500 2000 163 9126 14300 57 127 169
APHA 227
Ec Conductivity µs/cm 2510 B 750 3500 349 250 14040 22000 88 196 260
Total Alkalinity (as CaCO3 ) Titrimetry – APHA 2320 B 200 400 15 30 60 100 12 25 20
mg/l
Total Hardness (as CaCO3) Titrimetry – APHA 2340 250 600 60 70 4600 10680 24 60 120
mg/l
Chloride (as Cl-) mg/l Titrimetry- 4500- Cl-B 200 1200 119 56 4060 5600 22 35 28

Fluoride (as F-) mg/l APHA: 4500-F- 0.6 1.5 0.3 0.7 1.1 1.2 0.5 1 0.9
Total N mg/l Colorimetry <0.5 <0.5 2.5 2.6 <0.5 <0.5 <0.5
Total Iron (as Fe) mg/l Colorimetry 0.3 1.0 <0.1 0.1 <0.1 0.2 0.11 0.11 0.07
Nitrate( as N) mg/ l Colorimetry - 10 <1.0 <1.0 1.5 1.5 <1.0 <1.0 <1.0
Total Phosphate (as PO43-) APHA: 4500-PD - 2.0 1.0 0.6 <0.1 <0.1 0.1 <0.1 0.4
mg/l
Total Phosphorus (as P) mg/l APHA: 4500-PB - - 0.33 0.2 <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 0.01
Total Sulphate (as SO42-) Colorimetry 200 400 43.0 <5.0 650 670 <5.0 <5.0 150
mg/l
Cadmium (as Cd) mg/l APHA: 3030 D &3111 B - 0.005 <0.01 0.01 0.03 0.04 0.01 <0.01 0.01
Cadmium (as Cd) mg/l APHA: 3030 D &3111 B - 0.05 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02
Parameter Test Method Permissible limits for Sample Results

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Potable water
(SLSI614: 1983, Part 1
& Part 2)
Zinc (as Zn) mg/l Colorimetry 5.0 15 <0.02 0.02 0.1 0.12 0.11 0.08 0.28
Lead (as Pb) mg/l APHA: 3030 D &3111 B - 0.05 0.02 0.02 0.09 0.16 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02
Nickel (as Ni) mg/l APHA: 3030 D &3111 B - - <0.02 <0.02 0.17 0.2 0.03 <0.02 <0.02

Tolerance limits
DO mg/l Electrometry - 6.89 7.25 3.43 3.56 7.85 8.35 8.58
BOD5 mg/l Manometry - 12 17 56 78 6 8 7
COD (mg/l) Colorimetry 10 79 52 960 530 37 42 500
Oil & Grease (mg/l) Gravimetry 1 1.5 2.6 16.5 8.2 4 2.8 1.5
Total Coliforms Count <10 per 100 ml ND 350 ND ND ND ND ND
(MPN) Per 100 ml
E. Coli Count (MPN) Per None in 100 ml ND 80 ND ND ND ND ND
100 ml

Source: Chemical and Microbiology Laboratory Water Analysis Report, Aqua Technologies (Pvt.) Ltd.

ND= Not in Detectable amount

M1, M2 ,M3 - Lake water ,

M5,M6, M7- Botanical Garden Tank in Dry Zone

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

3.2.9. Ground Water


Deep and shallow regolith aquifers (groundwater bearing formations) are prevalent in Hambanthota
District. However, water recharge manly take place due to local rainfall thus water in the available wells
predominant during the rainy time. The geochemical characteristics of aquifers in Hambanthota belong
to two major categories such as non-dominant cations and anions and Ca and SO42- rich
aquifers, especially in sandy beaches (Dissanayake and Weerasooriya, 1985). The amount of
groundwater and its percentage of supply over total supply in urban, rural and industrial zones supply in
Hambanthota is given in Table 13 (Panabokke and Perera 2005). According to this Table, the percentage
supply of groundwater is extremely lower than surface water supply, this further evident that the lower
availability of groundwater in the district.

Table 13. The quantity of groundwater supply in Hambanthota District

Description Quantity
No of tube wells 2483
Total supply of surface water & groundwater (m3/day) 27176
3
Supply from groundwater resources (m /day) 1021
Percentage of groundwater supply 3.8%
Percentage of surface water supply 96.2%

Source: NWSDB and WRB

However groundwater extraction was not possible in and around the proposed project site. People
living in the area fully depend on the water supply given by the water supply and drainage board.
Therefore, groundwater wells are hardly found in the area. Further, if wells are found they are usually
dried and water only available during the rainy seasons. Field and geological investigations further
concluded that groundwater recharge of the area is fully depend on local rainfall and also identified
limited link with regional water tables (see the hydrogeology section). Therefore, hardly found
groundwater of the area will represent just the rain water composition. Therefore, giving baseline data
using them will also produce wrong meaning, because, rain water composition can be change with the
time. To overcome this issue report should rely on groundwater quality standard given by SLS/WHO
rather giving wrong impression. Moreover, maintain of standard guidelines as baseline data will provide
much more protection over the environment.

3.2.9.1. Groundwater in the study area


Characteristics of hydrogeological conditions of the proposed area are mainly governed by the
basement rock. According to the Figure 14 on the structural geology of the proposed area, the study
site is located between two major shear planes about 15 km away from them and a thrust zone in the
western side.

Therefore the groundwater aquifer in the proposed project area could be an isolated one and not
directly connected to the regional recharge and groundwater movements. Therefore, groundwater
availability in the proposed area highly relies on local rainfall while groundwater recharge is controlled
by type and thickness of the overburden soil layers. Therefore, groundwater fluctuations are very high
due to long drought period. Further, the groundwater flow is very low due to flat topography in the
area. Sandy aquifers with an average depth of 30m are present along the coastal stretch at close
proximity to the proposed area.

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

3.2.10. Land use


The study area including the EPZ area and the immediate surroundings comprise of a multitude of land
uses such as scrub land, Chena cultivations, home gardens, grasslands, sparsely used croplands, paddy
lands, water bodies and barren lands (Figure 7). The extent of the said land uses is shown in Table 14.

Table 14. The extents of the land uses in the project area and immediate surroundings

Land Use Extent (ha)


Sparsely used cropland 1.11
Scrub Land 130.57
Paddy Land 8.10
Other 2.52
Water Bodies 48.09
Home Garden 69.68
Grass Land 3.85
Chena Cultivation 130.12
Barren land 0.02
Total 394.06
Out of the proposed EPZ site which comprise of a total of 228 ha, the actual industrial area will be on
123.9 ha while the areas left as reservations, tanks, roads and service areas will be 88.62 ha. Common
waste water treatment plant will take up 3.15 ha, solid waste collection/disposal area will take up 3.15
ha and the water infrastructure from the NWSDB will take up approximately 7.78 ha.

3.2.11. Air quality


The results of the air quality data taken from 3 locations in the Project area is shown in Table 15. The
locations from which samples were taken are shown in Table 2 and Fig 1 in Chapter 1. According to the
Table 15 all the parameters were well below the maximum permissible level according to the CEA
National Environmental (Ambient Air Quality) Regulation No 1562/22 dated 15/08/2008. The Report of
the ITI on the air quality assessment is attached in Annex 7

3.2.12. Noise &Vibration


Tables 16 and 17 show the existing noise and vibration in locations in the project site and the impact
area. The sample locations with their GPS points are shown in Table 3 and Figure 2 in Chapter 1.

According to the results, all the locations had noise levels below than the CEA standard levels. The noise
levels were largely influenced by the background noises as the proposed site is located in close
proximity to the Mirijjawila Sooriyawewa Road. The methodology and the results in measuring the
noise and vibration by ITI is shown in Annex 8

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Table 15. Results of Air Quality Sampling in the project area

Parameter/ Concentration
PM25 PM10 NO2 CO SO2 O3 Temp Relative Wind Wind Solar Pressure
Sampling Location µg/m3 µg/m3 µg/m3 µg/m3 µg/m3 µg/m3 degree Humidity Speed Direction Radiation h Pa
C % m/s degree W/m2
Location4(6008’55.33”N 16.87 33.73 0.009 0.517 0.002 0.011 25.45 90 1.00 194.46 136.41 1003.63
81004’18.77”E)
Location5(6007’19.43”N 18.55 32.82 0.012 0.56 0.002 0.008 29.92 91.17 0.61 138.19 86.44 1004.9
81004’36.45”E)
Location6(6007’59.91”N 17.78 33.49 0.019 0.44 0.003 0.01 24.26 83.33 1.51 123.21 117.21 1004.69
81004’0.31”E)
Maximum Permissible 50 100 250 30000 200 200 - - - - - -
Levels NEA (Ambient air
Quality) Regulations
Source: Air quality management and monitoring unit, CEA

Table 16. Noise Level Results in the project area

Assessment time period-Day CEA Assessment time period- Evening CEA Assessment time period- Night CEA
Measurement Standar Standar Standards
Location ds noise ds (dB) (dB) night
ABL RBL ENL (dB) ABL RBL ENL evening ABL RBL ENL time
dB(A) dB(A) dB(A) daytime dB(A) dB(A) dB(A) time dB(A) dB(A) dB(A)
24 hour Measurements

N1 6 08’48.390’’N 39 41 51 40 42 51 37 39 47
0
81 04’15.636’’E
6 07’46.773’’N
N3 0 41 45 51 70 41 43 52 70 40 45 49 55
81 04’00.939’’E

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

N5 6 07’10.554’’N
0 41 47 51 40 42 46 42 43 46
81 04’34.477’’E

6 07’25.177’’N
N6 0 45 47 57 45 47 56 41 42 50
81 04’50.066’’E
3hours Short Term Location
0 -
6 08’01.029’’N
N2 44 52 40 45 40 45
0
81 03’59.813’’E 70 55
0
6 07’26.241’’N 70
N4 0 46 50 37 39 37 39
81 04’03.572’’E

Source: ITI Report on existing noise and vibration levels (2013)

Note: High back ground noise level observed during night time due to cricket and other insects noise.
ABL – Assessment back ground level (LA90, 15min) RBL - Rating back ground level(LA90,15min) ENL - Existing noise level (LAeq,h)h-hour

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Table 17. Vibration Measurements in Project Locations

Location GPS Point Parameter/ Concentration Vibration level (day time)

0-15 min 15-30 min 30-45 min 45 -60 min

1 MeasurementLocation- Max. Peak value in velocity mode (mm/sec.) 0.09 0.10 0.08 0.16
V1
Frequency range (Hz) 10–50 10–50 10-50 10–50

Predominant Frequency (Hz) 13.5 27.5 13.5 27.5

2 MeasurementLocation- Max. Peak value in velocity mode (mm/sec.) 0.12 0.14 0.19 0.07
V2
Frequency range (Hz) 0–10 10–50 10-50 10–50

Predominant Frequency (Hz) 9.2 23.7 23.7 11.5

3 Measure Max. Peak value in velocity mode (mm/sec.) 0.07 0.09 0.07 0.10
mentLocation-V3
Frequency range (Hz) 0–10 10–50 0–10 0–10

Predominant Frequency (Hz) 9.5 16.5 5.7 8.5

4 MeasurementLocation– Max. Peak value in velocity mode(mm/sec.) 0.07 0.06 0.07 0.07
V4
Frequency range (Hz) 10–50 10–50 10-50 10–50

Predominant Frequency (Hz) 31.5 15.5 12.5 15.5

Source: ITI Report CP 1309636 on existing noise and vibration levels (2013)

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

3.3. Biological Environment

3.3.1. Existing natural and manmade habitats in and around the project area
and the distribution and density of the fauna and flora in them
The project site is predominantly under scrub vegetation (~ 62 ha) which had been opened up in
locations for the establishment of roads and transmission lines by the RDA and CEB when it was under
the UDA. There are few tanks and canals inside the project site which are being used sparsely by people
for domestic level activities etc. There are abandoned Chena cultivations scattered about the site.
Outside the boundary of the project site there are paddy lands and water bodies established by the
ULBISP. The habitats of the project area are shown in Figure 7.

3.3.2. Flora
During the field survey, a total of 40 species of flora was identified in the study site having one critically
endangered plant, (Ziziphus lucida– Eraminiya), one near threatened plant (Salvadora persica -
Maliththan) and one vulnerable plant (Manilkara hexandra - Palu) and were recorded in the scrub
lands. However, all these species are found in other nearby scrub lands as well as tank associated
habitats in the District (Ref. EIA on the Extension of the Southern Expressway from Matara to
Hambanthota Section 4 – from Maththala Air Port to Hambanthota Sea Port via Andarawewa).

Summary of the distribution of flora in the project area is shown in Table 18 while the distribution of
endemic, threatened and vulnerable flora in the Project area is shown in Table 19. Full list of flora
observed in the project area is shown in Annex 9

Table 18. Summary of the distribution of flora in the project area

No. of Endemic % Endangered % Critically % Near % Vulnerable %


species species Endangered Threatened species

40 - - - - 1 2.5 1 2.5 1 2.5

Table 19. The distribution of endemic, threatened and vulnerable flora in the Project area

Common Species Conservation


Family Scientific name Habit
name Status Status

Rhamnaceae Ziziphuslucida Eraminiya Shrub Endemic CR

Salvadoraceae Salvadorapersica Maliththan Small tree Native NT

Sapotaceae Manilkarahexandra Palu Tree Native VU

NT – Near Threatened, CR – Critically Endangered, VU – Vulnerable

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

3.3.3. Fauna
With regards to fauna, the project site and its environs recorded 151 species and recorded one Near
Threatened dragonfly (Dancing Dropwing), one critically endangered bird (Gull-billed Tern), and two
near threatened birds (Yellow-crowned Woodpecker and Streaked Weaver), one endangered mammal
species (Elephant) and one near threatened mammal (Grey langur).

Table 20 shows the summary of the fauna in the Project area while Table 21 shows the distribution of
endemic, threatened and vulnerable fauna in the Project area. The full list is shown in Annex 9.

Table 20.The summary of the fauna in the Project area


No of species
of

Endangered

Endangered

Threatened

Threatened
Vulnerable
observed
Category

Critically
Endemic
species

species

species
fauna

Near
%

%
Butterflies 24 - - - - - - - - - -
Dragonflies 13 - - - - - - - - 1 7.7
Gastropods 5 - - - - - - - - - -
Amphibians 6 - - - - - - - - - -
Fresh water 7 - - - - - - - - - -
fish
Reptiles 6 - - - - - - - - - -
Birds 79 - 2 2.53 - - - 2 2.53
Mammals 6 - 16.6 1 - - - - - 1 16.6
Table 21. The distribution of endemic, threatened and vulnerable fauna in the Project area

Species Species Conservation


Family Scientific name Common name
category Status Status
Libellulidae Trithemispallidinervis Dancing Dragonfly Native NT
(Kirby, 1889) Dropwing
Laridae Sterna niloticaGmelin, Gull-billed Tern Bird Resident CR
1789
Phasianidae Gallus lafayetiiLesson, Sri Lanka Bird Endemic LC
1831 Junglefowl
Picidae Dendrocoposmahrattensis Yellow-crowned Bird Resident NT
(Latham, 1801) Woodpecker
Ploceidae Ploceusmanyar (Horsfield, Streaked Bird Resident NT
1821) Weaver
Cercopithecidae Semnopithecuspriam Grey langur Mammal Native NT
Blyth, 1844
Elephantidae ElephasmaximusLinnaeus, Asian Elephant Mammal Native EN
1758
NT – Near Threatened; CR – Critically Endangered; LC – Least Concerned; EN – Endangered

Fish species recorded in tanks and adjacent aquatic habitats in study area is also shown in Annex 9

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

3.3.4. Proximity to Wildlife Reserves, National Parks, Sanctuaries, Wetlands


and Forest Reserves
There are no protected areas in close proximity to the project site. The Managed Elephant Range (MER)
and the Bundala National Park (NP) are the significant protected areas in Hambantota District, but are
located away from the project site.

3.4. Social and Cultural Environment


3.4.1. Population Characteristics in Hambanthota District

The project is located in 3 GN divisions of Hambanthota DS Division namely Mirijjawila, Sisilasagama


and Manajjawa. According to the Census and Statistics in 2011, the division is populated by 57053
people and is expected to increase on the face of many new developments which are operational as
well as planned. The population growth rate is 1.4% and the projected population in 2030 in the
Hambanthota District is 613,327 as against 596,617 at present.

The DS Divisions of Hambanthota comprises of 28688 males and 28385 females. All the ethnic groups
live in the division as is evident from the Table 22. Majority of the people live in the area are Sinhala
Buddhists while the rest is represented by various ethnic groups such as Tamils, Moors, Burgers and
Malay etc. Tables 23 and 24 show the Religion wise and age wise socio economic details of the
Hambanthota DS Division. The source of the information is Department of Census and Statistics 2011.

Table 22. Distribution of Population by Ethnicity

Roman Other
DS Division Buddhist Hindu Islam Other Total
Catholic Christian

Hambanthota 46624 458 9364 281 245 81 57053

Table 23.Distribution of Population by Religion

DS Division Less than 15 Years 15 – 59 Years Our 60 years Total

Hambanthota 16061 35528 5464 57053

Table 24. Distribution of Population by Age

Sinhales Sri Lanka


DS Division Indian Tamil Moor Burger Malay Other Total
e Tamil

Hambanthot 46779 855 55 3988 64 5220 97 57053


a

Tables 25,26 and 27, shows the distribution of Housing units in the project area with respect to type of
house, principle material of wall and roof while Table 28 and 29 show the availability of drinking water
and lightning facilities in the project area.

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Table 25. Distribution of Housing Units by Type of House

Two Three or Luxury


Single Attach Twin Line Huts Othe
storie more Flat apartm Total
Storied ed house rooms slums r
d storied ent

11843 367 32 23 37 11 26 70 96 13 14318

Table 26. Distribution of Housing Units by the Principle Material of Walls

Cement Pressed cad


DS Division Brick Cabook Mud Plank other Total
blocks soil brick Jan

Hambanthota 12424 1188 15 234 539 47 63 8 24518

Table 27. Distribution of Housing Units by the Principle Material of Roof

Aluminum Metal
DS Division Tile Asbestos Concrete Cadjans Other Total
sheet zinc sheet

Hambanthota 10813 2338 291 27 473 558 18 14518

Table 28. Distribution of Households by the Principle Source of Drinking Water

Ds Division Well Pipe born water Other Total

Hambanthota 720 10454 3357 14531

Table 29. Distribution of Households by the Principle Type of Lighting of Houses

Electricity
Electricity
from road Solar Bio
DS Division from Kerosene oil Other Total
hydro power gas
national grid
projects

Hambanthota 12745 203 1507 49 4 23 14531

Source Department of Census and Statistics 2011

3.4.2. Socio economic status of the households within 500m of the project site
There are no inhabitants within the project site but at close proximity to the site within 500m of the
boundary there are 27 households which will be indirectly affected by the Project. Out of them 11
families had lived more than 26 years in the locality while 16 families had lived less than that. About 13
families have the floor area between 501 to 1001 square feet. About 23 families have their cultivations
but only few (2) have an income more than Rs. 10,000 from cultivations. About 17 families were
dependent on self-employment as their income source. About 12 families had an monthly income
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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

between Rs. 10,000 to 25000 while it was less in others. About 19 families thought the project will
increase their income and majority were happy about the project coming to their area and also thought
their land value will also increase due to it. The details of the household survey are shown in Annexure
10.

On the other boundary of the project site, there were some paddy fields, tanks and a saltern operated
by the Laugh Gas Company. The paddy cultivators did not think the project will affect them. The
administration of the Saltern also did not express any dissatisfaction towards the project.

3.4.3. .Cultural, historical, protected resources and archeological


aspects/considerations
There are no such areas in close proximity to the Project site.

3.4.4. . Existing health and infrastructure facilities


The households living within the 500m of the project site are having pipe borne water supplied by the
NWSDB and the quality of water is acceptable by everyone. All the families are having proper toilets. As
they are located close to the main road they have good access to public transport too. Most of them
possess vehicles in their homes, three wheelers, and motor bicycles being more prominent. The
nearest hospital for them is in Hambanthota.

3.4.5. . Natural Disaster which have occurred in the past


According to the Hazard Profile of Sri Lanka compiled by the Disaster Management Centre in 2012,
Hambanthota District is prone to drought, floods, sea level rise, wind hazards and cyclones including
Tsunamis (Figure 16, 17,18) . Table 30 shows the damage caused by Tsunami for the affected GN
divisions by type of damage and distance to the sea.

Table 30. Distribution of damaged housing units due to Tsunami in Hambanthota DS Division.

Figure 16 shows the Enhanced View of Part of Tsunami affected Area in Hambanthota District (26-12-
2004). (Note: Map shows only the affected GN Ds and not the exact affected area within the division)
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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Approximate Location of the Project Area

Affected GN Divisions of
the Project Area

Figure 16. Part of Tsunami (26-12-2004) Affected Area Hambanthota District –Enhanced View

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Figure 17. Drought hazard map of Sri Lanka

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Figure 18. Predicted sea level rise in Sri Lanka in 2025 in Sri Lanka

As the proposed EPZ is located about 2 km away from the coast, these hazards are not much
anticipated

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

3.5. Public Consultation Sessions


Public consultation meetings were held with the Government officials, Private sector officials, Leaders
of organization & selected residents in the area under consideration. They were interviewed after
making them fully aware of the project & its objectives.

a) All the respondents are in the opinion that the prepared project would have a very limited
negative social impact on people.

b) People in the area anticipate rapid economic development with the functionally of the proposed
project. They emphasized that people in & around the project location should be assured of
enjoying the benefits of such an economic development. As they proposed it, the people in the
area should be treated giving priority in the distribution of economic benefits such as
employment opportunities, business opportunities etc.

c) Rapid development in infrastructure facilities is also expected by the people. They are happy
about the qualitative development of their socioeconomic considerations that such a
development would bring about in the near future.

d) The public was also concerned with the negative impact of labour immigration caused by the
proposed project. The proposed project may attract labour from different parts of the country
and they may settle in this area. They emphasized the importance of taking proper
measurement to maintain peace and order controlling immigrant laborers.

e) Disposal of garbage & industrial emissions was also taken in to account by the people in the
discussions with them. They emphasized the importance of adopting scientific measurements to
disposal garbage & industrial emissions, so that they may not cause any problem.

f) The public was also concerned with the impact on the elephants & birds living in the project area
and in the vicinity of it. Industrialization in the area would reduce the space available for wild
animal & such impacts may result in human-animal conflict. Their suggestion is to remove
elephants to adjacent forest areas such as Ranmuduwawa.

Further details on public consultation sessions conducted in the project area are attached as Annex 11.

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Chapter 4
Anticipated Environmental
Impacts

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

4. Anticipated Environmental Impacts


The impacts of the proposed project activities on the environment were studied in detail considering
the different environmental elements. Based on the standard Leopold Matrix, impacts were identified
in order of their significance and an Impact Matrix was prepared (Refer: Annex 12). In doing so both
direct and indirect impacts, long and short term impacts, positive and negative impacts were
considered for inclusion. Out of the impacts Ecological, Physical and Sociological impacts appeared to
be of the highest significance.

4.1. Impacts on Ecology

4.1.1. Impacts on bio-diversity due to loss of habitats/ fragmentation of


habitats
The actual area allocated for the industries is 123.9 ha of the total of 228 ha. A good part of this area is
under scrub vegetation (~ 62 ha) while the rest is under abandoned lands after Chena cultivations. In
the scrub vegetation 41 plant species were recorded with one critically endangered plant,
(Ziziphuslucida– Eraminiya), one near threatened plant (Salvadorapersica - Maliththan) and one
vulnerable plant (Manilkarahexandra - Palu) were found during the field survey as shown in Chapter 3.
However, all these species are found in other nearby scrub vegetation areas as well as tank associated
habitats in the district. (ref. EIA on the Extension of the Southern Expressway from Matara to
Hambanthota Section 4 – from Maththala Airport to Hambanthota Sea Port via Andarawewa). With
regards the fauna, the project site and its environs recorded 151 species with one Near Threatened
dragonfly (Dancing Dropwing), one critically endangered bird (Gull-billed Tern), two near threatened
birds (Yellow-crowned Woodpecker and Streaked Weaver ) one endangered mammal species
(Elephant) and one near threatened mammal (Grey langur) were recorded. Most of these species
inhabits the scrub vegetation and it was noted that only a few species are common in other habitats in
the district (i.e. Of the species identified with high conservation status in the present project site, only
the Yellow Wood Pecker and the Elephant were seen in the scrub vegetation in MER).

On the face of many development schemes in the area including the proposed project and the fact that
the scrub vegetation areas are increasingly depleting to pave way for them, the impact of losing scrub
vegetation areas due to this project is somewhat significant. However when compared to the total land
area of the district, the land area covered by the project is low (0.000912 %), therefore compare to
scrub forest in the district the project area may contain very law coverage of scrub forests.
Furthermore, when the BOI was vested this land by UDA, a good part of the land had been opened up
to establish the electrical and road infrastructure by CEB and RDA and therefore the magnitude of
impact from this proposed intervention becomes less than had it opened pristine natural forest. As 4
out of the 7 faunal species with high conservation status were birds with high mobility, the impact of
the proposed project on them is less. However, the adverse impacts of clearing forests on elephants
and other wildlife cannot be underestimated.

4.1.2. Human elephant conflict due to loss of habitats/ fragmentation of


habitats
As mentioned above, the EPZ takes up about 62 ha of scrub vegetation which is inhabited by elephants.
Exact number of elephants who inhabit the project area is not counted. (However according to the
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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

DWLC there are about 400 elephants using the MER and the adjacent localities). As there are water
bodies downstream of the forested area, it provides ideal habitats for elephants. Establishment of the
proposed EPZ may fragment their habitats and escalate the human elephant conflict in the area.

4.2. Impact on Physical environment

4.2.1. . Water and other liquid effluents :Impact of treated industrial waste
water disposal on the environment
Wastewater generated from the project includes sewage or domestic wastewater (toilet waste water
and grey water from canteens, kitchens and bathrooms), process wastewater, wastewater from utility
operations, runoff, spills etc. An overview of the typical waste generated from the proposed industries
is given in Table 7 in Chapter 2. It is noted that effluent producing industries are not allowed in the
premises. For instance in the industrial sector of metals the sub sectors of industries generating high
pollutants such as heavy metals including electroplating, melting, galvanizing are not allowed. Other
than that, “tanneries”; the leather industry generating most harmful pollutants is not included in the
proposed project. Further, the individual industries are expected to treat the waste water to the level
permissible to be sent to the Common Waste Water Treatment Plant operated by the NWSDB as vested
by BOI. This will use the activated sludge process to treat biodegradable waste in the waters (refer the
Environmental Norms of the BOI in the Annex 4 d of the waste water treatment report). However,
washings and accidental spills would result in some pollutants such as detergents, small amounts of
acids, oils, organic solvents being inadvertently released to the common wastewater treatment plant. If
such spills are minimized the primary concern would be the treatment of sewage.

In addition to sewage it can be seen that the pollutants of concern in the wastewater coming into the
central treatment plant are wash waters containing detergents, acids, soluble organic chemicals, oils,
nutrients, suspended solids and heated effluents. However, the amounts of these pollutants would be
very small. The actual quantities of the wastewaters generated would vary through the year depending
on production levels, raw materials used, housekeeping practices, processes, efforts on reuse of water
etc.

Since there are no high polluting substances in the waste water, the BOI has proposed the use of a
central wastewater treatment plant which will be operated by NWSDB. The waste water would be
treated so that the effluent leaving the treatment plant would meet the quality standards of “effluent
to be discharged to surface water

According to the plans of the proposed common wastewater treatment plant the wastewater which
would be treated up to the requirements of CEA will be sent to a tank in the Mirijjawila Botanical
Gardens which is in the adjoining land. The main reason for this is the difficulty of finding inland water
bodies having adequate dilution or self-purification capacity to discharge treated wastewater in
the area. Most of available wastewater treatment facilities in the country dispose their output to
nearby water streams or water bodies rather than directly releasing in to agriculture. Water from such
streams and water bodies are commonly used in agriculture. In this project the treated effluent is
discharged to a cascading system of waters which are more or less stagnant. This will have different
repercussions. If the treated effluent contains any pollutants it may pollute the ground water and
primarily would be a health risk to farmers using that effluent for irrigation. Crop damages also might
occur in such instances. If the domestic wastewater or sewage is not adequately treated organisms such
as bacteria, virus and parasites might still remain in the effluent and can pose health risks for the

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

farmers and consumers. Inadequate treatment of sewage can also lead to bad smell and poor
environmental quality. This is of high significance since the holding ponds are located in the botanical
gardens which are expected to be a tourist attraction.

In the proposed project, the treated effluent will not be used for irrigation of the gardens. The tanks to
which the treated effluents are sent to be is shown on Annex 4 d In the waste water treatment report
by NWSDB. The water in the first tank cascades down to second tank, while the water in the first tank is
not used for any irrigation. The water in the second tank is used for irrigation of a few paddy fields of a
village community. Hence, unless extreme care is taken to treat the effluent up to required standards,
there can be significant impacts on the paddy fields. In addition to above impacts, listed below are
some other impacts on the receiving water bodies and environment.

a) Depletion of Dissolved Oxygen levels resulting in septic conditions which would finally
lead to loss of aquatic life, odor etc.
b) Spread of water borne diseases
c) Excessive nutrient loads leading to algal blooms and eutrophication
d) Poor physical properties of water such as turbidity, loss of transparency, odor, rise in
temperature
e) Effect on birds and other animals using the water ponds
Since the proposed EPZ is not having polluting or water based industries and if good housekeeping
practices and cleaner production techniques are used there would not be any impacts from heavy
metals or other toxic compounds.

Treated wastewater is expected to first release to Tank 1 of Hambantota Botanical gardens and the spill
water of this tank falls to Tank 2 of Hambantota Botanical gardens and the spill water or water
extracted from sluice will in turn go to the paddy area downstream. This paddy area is very small
(Approximately 4.6Ha). Since water will be treated to the desired standard there cannot be any impact
on the downstream area. Details are shown in Figure 19. below.

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Tank 2
Paddy Area

Project Boundary

Figure 19. Details of effluent recipient tanks in Hambantota Botanical Gardens

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

4.2.2. . Solid and hazardous waste


Most of the industries in the proposed EPZ are dry industries and would generate a fair amount of solid
waste. The quantities would vary according to production levels, raw materials, processes etc. In
addition to solid waste from industrial processes there would be domestic type solid waste generated
from offices, kitchens, canteens, staff quarters etc. Sludge generated from the central wastewater
treatment plant also has to be dealt with under solid waste. In addition throwaways from time to time
including electrical/ electronic items, batteries, bulbs, used computers; used furniture also needs to be
managed.

It is noted that there are no major polluting industries in the proposed EPZ. Hence, other than for some
electronic wastes , paint containers and rags used for cleaning, the rest of the solid waste is not toxic or
non- hazardous. Since there are no industrial waste water treatment plants, the sludge would not
contain hazardous material. However, sludge from the common treatment plant would contain
significant amounts of microorganisms including pathogens, nutrients and organics. Hence, if sludge is
just disposed to open dump sites, the leachate would contaminate ground water.

An area had been allocated within the EPZ as a solid waste disposal site but no further plans for disposal
has been made. If all the solid waste including domestic type solid waste, electronic waste and sludge
are disposed onto a common dump site following impacts could be observed:

 Odor
 Pests and rodents
 Unhygienic conditions
 Contamination of ground water with high amounts of organics, pathogens
 Depletion of dissolved oxygen in ground water
 Attraction of scavengers to the site
Since there are households living in close proximity to the EPZ, contamination of ground water is of
concern. Hence, unless proper solid waste management practices are used to avoid this and the other
effects mentioned above, impacts of solid waste can be considered as significant.

4.2.3. .Noise and Vibration


Table 31 shows the categorization of the noise levels according to the type of industries that will be
housed in the EPZ.

Table 31. Categorization of the noise levels according to the type of industries

Sector Lower Medium Higher


noise noise noise
 Basic metal sector *
(Structural Metal Products, Fabricated Metal Products, Cutlery, Hand tools and
General Hardware, Furniture and Fixtures Primarily of Metal)
Non ferrous basic metal industries
 Chemical Industries Sector *
 Other Chemical Products

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

 Machinery and Equipment Sector *


(Radio, television and communication equipment,
Electrical appliances and house wares, Professionals and scientific
equipment,Photographic and optical goods,Watches and clocks, Jewellery
and related products or precious stones, Musical
instruments, Sporting and athletic goods except firearms, Engines
and turbines, Agricultural machinery and equipment, Metal and wood
working machinery, Specific industrial
process machinery, Machinery and equipment except electrical equipment,
Electrical industrial machinery and apparatus ,Electrical apparatus and suppliers)

 Mineral Products Sector *


(Pottery China and Earthenware, Structural clay products, Glass and Glass
products, Non metallic mineral products)

 Leather (Tanneries Excluded) *


 Timber and Wood *
 Saw mills, planning and other wood mills
(Wood and cork products, Furniture and fixtures)

 Transport Sector *
(Motorcycles and Bicycles, Shipbuilding and repair, Motor vehicles)

4.2.3.1. Noise Modelling Scenerios


Based on the available information on the types of industries and their possible noise levels during
operation, noise levels were modelled for the operational phase. In this regard, four Scenarios were
adopted under different noise modelling methods by the ITI as given bellow Table 32.

Table 32. Noise modelling scenarios used for the Project

Number Scenario

Scenario : 1 Assume 90% of the land area of industrial block have a noise level of 55 dB(A) , 45 dB(A)
during the day time and night time respectively, at their industrial boundaries

Scenario : 2 Assume 90% of the land area of industrial block have a noise level of 70 dB(A) , 60 dB(A)
during the day time and night time respectively, at their industrial boundaries. This also
consider as a construction period

Scenario : 3 Assume 60% of the land area of industrial block have a noise level of 55 dB(A) , 45 dB(A)
during the day time and night time respectively, at their industrial boundaries

Scenario : 4 Assume 60% of the land area of industrial block have a noise level of 70 dB(A) , 60 dB(A)
during the day time and night time respectively, at their industrial boundaries

Table 33 shows the existing noise levels and predicted noise levels for the 4 scenarios taken for 6
locations which are located within the impact area.

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Table 33. Existing noise levels and predicted noise levels for the 4 scenarios taken for 6 locations

Receiver Type Existing Limiting Predicted Noise Levels dB (A)


noise level value
day/night Scenario 1 Scenario 2 Scenario 3 Scenario 4
dB (A) day/night
dB (A) day/night Day/night day/night day/night

H1 Botanical Park 51/47 55/45 47/<40 58/48 45/<40 54/44

H2 Residential 52/45 55/45 44/<40 56/46 41/<40 52/42

H3 Residential 51/49 55/45 44/<40 57/47 40/<40 52/42

H4 Residential 50/39 55/45 42/<40 54/45 40/<40 50/40

H5 Residential 51/46 55/45 42/<40 56/46 40/<40 51/41

H6 Residential/Harbour 57/50 55/45 42/<40 56/46 40/<40 51/41

The figures on noise models along with the receiver points are shown in Annexure 8. Based on the maps
prepared, the impact from noise from the EPZ is not significant if the 1, 3 and 4 scenarios are adopted.
Therefore it is imperative to allocate the industries accordingly to minimize the impact from noise
during operation of the zone.

4.2.4. . Impact on Hydrology


4.2.4.1. Soil Erosion and Siltation during Construction
As there are no visible streams in the project area there will not be serious hydrological impacts.
However soil erosion and siltation could take place during land preparation for building construction,
internal road and culvert construction. All such construction stage impacts are temporary. During road
side drain excavation and until the cut earth drains are lined with concrete, these drains are vulnerable
to erosion.

4.2.4.2. Impacts on Existing Tanks


As there are two small tanks within the project premises, there could be siltation in the tanks during
the construction stage when the intense rains are present . As per the discussions held with the
Provincial Irrigation Engineer, it was observed that these two tanks have not been listed as the standard
tank in the Provincial Irrigation office. Both these tanks are located within Manajjawa GN Division and is
shown in Figure 20. It is further evident that both of these tanks apparently do not have irrigable areas
as the command area. However the larger tank which is on the western side and is closer to the road,
shows a land patch as the command area which is outside the project boundary.

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Figure 20. Tanks located within the project area and in Manajjawa GN Division

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

4.2.5. Impact on Drainage Paths


Very small number of drainage paths is available within the project premises and most of them are not
prominently visible at least as “Ara”s. It is the small valleys which are very few in number and act as the
drainage paths. There can be impacts to these drainage paths during road construction because of cut
and fill activities.

4.2.6. Tsunami Risk Impact


According to the information gathered from Disaster Management Office Hambanthota both
Sisilasagama and Mirijjawila GND’s are vulnerable to tsunami inundation. No very accurate maps are
available to exactly find out the vulnerable area of the EPZ. However areas more close to A002 Road
could be vulnerable to this risk. However occurrence of Tsunami incidences in Sri Lanka is extremely
rare.

4.2.7. Impacts on geology and hydrogeology


The underlying geology of the project site is stable and therefore there will be no adverse impact from
the construction of the EPZ. However, it is imperative to carry out geotechnical investigations prior to
construction.

As the EPZ will be using water supplied by the NWSDB, the underlying hydrogeology will also not be
adversely impacted.

4.2.8. Impact on soils


The impact on the soils will occur mostly during the construction phase due to soil exposure and erosion
and soil compaction. It is anticipated that once the EPZ is completed with proper landscape facilities,
this impact will be minimal.

4.3. Impact on population


The proposed project has a direct social impact on the population of the area in and around the project
location in the long run. Industrial development in the project area may attract thousands of people to
work in different industries and engage in logistic activities in and around the industrial area. Being
sparsely populated, the Mirijjawila area has the spatial capacity of anticipated increase in the density of
population.

4.3.1. Impacts on livelihood/income sources of people


As a result of establishing the EPZ the area will be urbanized rapidly with new human settlements and
migration. Heavy infrastructure developments may take place such as new shopping facilities, banking
and other commercial facilities, information technology related activities, improved transportation and
communication, power supply, health care facilities resulting in uplifting the livelihood pattern and
income sources of the people there by changing the existing economic situation of the area.

4.3.2. Impact of migration of people


In the course of construction and operation of the proposed project there would be in and out
migration of people around the project location. Depending on the labour and other service
requirements the project may attract people from other parts of the same district and other districts.
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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

4.3.3. Impact of rising Land value


An inevitable impact of industrialization and urbanization is the dramatic fluctuation in land prices
depending on their location and economic importance. Increased demand for lands may give an
impetus to acquire lands even in fraudulent manner. The other impact would be increasing disputes
over land possession. Families who possess lands without clear private deeds may experience land
disputes when their claims for ownership are not accepted on collective consensus. Even the family
members, who had no interest in land possession and left the family property to be enjoyed by others,
may ask for their portion considering the value of lands.

4.3.4. Impact of traffic in the area


The progressive development of the project site and operation of various industries planned to be
established would increase the traffic volume in and around the project zone.

4.3.5. Impact of waste water and industrial emissions on people


Agriculture is the main means of sustenance of people in the area and this livelihood completely
depends on the supply of water without any contamination. Therefore the project has to be very
careful about the release of waste water and industrial emissions as they may contaminate the water
sources used for drinking and agricultural purposes.

4.3.6. Impact of garbage disposal


Industrial development, expansion of market and development of residential areas in this project site
and in the vicinity of it may increase quantity of garbage disposed in various forms such as industrial
wastes and domestic garbage etc. Unless proper system for the disposal of garbage is adopted,
dumping of garbage in different places may cause a health hazard in the area. Such dumpings may
pollute the water sources too.

4.3.7. Public safety and security


Even though the project has been designed with proper consideration about its impact on public safety,
one cannot ignore the possibility of any threat in the period of construction and operation of the
project. Public safety may be challenged by the construction activities, transportation of materials,
operational activities of different projects in the zone unless proper precautionary measures are taken.
Those employed in factories and follow educational and vocational programs may find accommodations
in the adjacent areas giving rise to the demand for boarding houses. Safety of them would be at stake if
peace and order of those areas are not properly maintained.

4.3.8. Impact of law and order


Rise of criminal syndicates and vice rings is a common experience of developing communities and social
change that would be brought about by the proposed project, may not be free from such negative
impacts. Increasing economic activities and the circulation of money may provide opportunities not
only for property crimes but also for violent crimes and vices such as prostitution, illicit alcohol, drug
and other deviant acts.

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

4.3.9. Impact of trade union and political movements


Increasing labour force in the project site may provide impetus to the appearance of trade unions and
their links with main stream politics in the country. Extremist political activities of such trade union and
political moments may force a serious threat to the smooth functioning of the investment projects of
the area.

4.3.10. Disturbances to the existing historical/cultural sites


There are no historical or cultural sites in the vicinity of the Project site

4.3.11. Issues due to competition for limited resources


The total industrial water demand for the project, by considering the losses has to be designed for
8,200 m3/day. At present water demand for this area is served through the distribution system of 175
m3 capacity elevated water tower located at Mirijjawila, which is fed by existing Ambalantota water
supply scheme. NWSDB has provided water supply from the tower to the zone through a temporary line
which is 160 mm diameter. The NWSDB is positive that they can supply this demand by establishing
2,000 m3capacity water tower, 1,000 m3 capacity Ground Reservoir, supply and installation of 3 Nos.
H/L pumps to replace Ambalantota Water Treatment Plant H/L pumps, supply and installation of 3 Nos.
H/L pumps at Mirijjawila Industrial Park pump house, DI and PVC pipe laying work to cater the demand
of 8,200 m3/day requested by MIP.

The EPZ is not planning to use ground water for their activities. This is especially favourable since, the
ground water situation is much limited and is very much dependent on the rains for recharge which is
also few and far between.

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Chapter 5
Proposed Mitigatory Measures

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

5. Proposed Mitigatory Measures


5.1. Mitigation of Ecological Impacts
5.1.1. Mitigation of impacts on the Ecological resources
Removal of vegetation for construction activities will be done avoiding rainy periods as otherwise this
will lead to extensive soil erosion. When scrub vegetation is removed, this has to start from one portion
and gradually proceed so that the wildlife within it will have ample time to move away. The debris
should not be burnt but rather the large stems, branches etc. be given to the nearby communities or
disposed of properly and the rest be spread on the soil.

Tree planting will be done on the boundary as well as on road reservations within the EPZ in order to
minimise the adverse impacts of site clearance.

5.1.2. Mitigatory measures for the impacts on HEC.


After consultation with the DWLC, rehabilitation of 2/3 abandoned tanks located inside the MER and
enriching those surrounding areas for the loss of scrub and water related habitats of elephants were
suggested as mitigatory measures for the HEC. Based on the Strategic Environment Assessment done
for the GHUDP in August 2010, the MER had been zoned to resolve the HEC in the area as elephants
had lost a large extent of their traditional habitat due to the Udawalawe Left Bank Project, and many
other development activities in the area (figure 21). The purpose of this MER is to use available lands
optimally for the conservation of elephant habitats whilst ensuring sustainable development.

For the enrichment, both replanting programmes using carefully selected locally available tree species
and removal of invasive species within those areas were suggested. Apart from providing habitats, the
enrichment planting programmes will help to increase the water holding capacity of the tanks. Further,
establishment of electrical fences around the MER is in progress by the DWLC. Hence there won’t be
any HEC issues in the project area in the future.

As elephants are also seen inside the EPZ care will be taken to avoid their inhabiting within the EPZ. This
can be done by erecting an electric fence around the EPZ.

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Figure 21. Zoning map of the Greater Hambanthota Area up to 2030

(adopted from the SEA, 2010)

5.2. Mitigation measures for impact on Physical Environment

5.2.1. During construction phase


As stated earlier, the project area had already been opened up for the construction of roads and
electricity transmission lines when the site was under UDA. However, with the new proposal, lands
including scrub vegetation and abandoned Chena have to be cleared further for new roads, industrial
establishments, common facilities etc.

Excavation of soil and land clearing will cause soil erosion and silting of the water courses within the
proposed EPZ. Therefore clearing of land will be conducted minimally and only to match the
requirement. Stockpiling of soil will be prevented as much as possible and when unavoidable the
stockpiles will be covered with suitable material to prevent erosion from both rain and wind. As the
Project area is dry the stockpiles can further contribute to dust in the environment and they will be kept
moist by spraying water as required and practicable on the soil. Care will be taken to avoid spraying in
excessive volumes that may cause surface erosion. In order to reduce the sediment getting into nearby
water ways sediment `traps need to be used on surface lateral drains. These are pits cut at the bottom
of the drains at appropriate intervals to slow the movement and allow for water collection, increase

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

infiltration, and sediment deposition. As much as possible the rainy periods will be avoided during
construction. If this cannot be avoided at all, appropriate measures will be taken to minimize the
adverse impacts. For example, during the rainy periods, it will be ensured that the water does not
stagnate on site as this will encourage mosquito breeding. Appropriate surface compaction and
stabilisation techniques will be adopted in rehabilitation to prevent erosion.

In order to dispose the extra excavated material, appropriate disposal sites need to be identified with
the consultation of local authorities. Alternatively, these material can be provided for a common good
e.g. to improve a nearby school playground or fill a building site, and such enquiries will be first made
from relevant authorities in the particular area.

5.2.2. Procurement of construction material


The Project area already has many metal quarries used to procure material for the construction of the
Airport. Therefore any more material procurement should not be done from the Project area but from
already established licensed quarries located relatively close to the Project area. A list of such quarries
is attached in the Annex 13.

5.2.3. Transportation of construction material


During the transport of the construction material to the site/s, the materials will be covered with
tarpaulins to avoid spills. In order to avoid the roads being slippery and thus dangerous to traffic during
wet weather, the vehicle wheels will be washed before putting on to the road from the material site.
The routes will be selected to avoid disturbance and congestion in roads used by the general public as
much as possible.

5.2.4. Storage of construction material


Proper storage of construction material, especially fuel and lubricants in equipment yards at/or near
work sites, although of a temporary nature, is an important aspect of field operations to avoid serious
incidents that can cause damage to life, property as well as surrounding environment. The chemicals
will be on concrete floors and provided with adequate cover. Precautions will be taken to prevent
accidental spills and contingency plans prepared accordingly.

The risk of fire should also be considered. The following precautions need to be taken in this respect.

 Ensure fuel and lubricants used in the project work are of good quality.
 Ensure safety of inflammable and explosive materials.
 Construct storage places with impermeable liners that are secure and protected from sun and rain.
 Ensure adequate distances from residential and public areas and water bodies.
 Prepare contingency plans for accidents such as fire. The Contractor should have his own Health and
Safety Plan in which these items are a must.
 Install adequate fire extinguishers of a type suitable for the particular product stored in relevant
places.
 Have plans for proper collection, disposal, and/or recycling of used materials – both lubricants and
empty containers.

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 Ensure buffer zones of vegetation are left undisturbed between streams and road under
construction.
 Ensure proper servicing of plant and machinery to prevent lubricant leaks.

5.2.5. Contamination of nearby water ways from construction work


There are some water bodies inside and also outside of the EPZ. Therefore it is imperative that stringent
measures are taken to minimize the sediment runoff to the water bodies from construction work. The
following measures can be taken to minimize this impact;

 Leave buffer zones of undisturbed vegetation between work sites and water bodies.

 Maintain good surface and cross drainage when working near water bodies.

 Use clean fill materials around water courses (e.g. rubble instead of fine soil when constructing
roads within the site)

 Dispose of excavated material from culvert sites in suitable areas away from water courses.

 Install sediment traps/sand bags at regular intervals in surface drains.

 Construct site offices away from water bodies.

 Do not discharge waste into water bodies

 Keep plant, machinery, and equipment in good working order and regularly serviced.

 Store fuel and lubricants under cover, away from water courses, on concrete or asphalted floors
with impermeable liners and traps for accidental spills that could get into surface water.

 Collect and recycle used lubricants and dispose of empty containers in a suitable manner.

 Oil and Grease trap will be set up to collect spill oil from workshops, garages and other oil storage
facilities.

 Educate labour gangs on the need to have clean water bodies.

 If possible, allow for sedimentation ponds and release of water after a period of settling time.

With regards to wetlands/low lying lands the following precautions will be taken to avoid sediments
reaching them.

 Take precautions not to divert sediment-loaded drainage into wetland areas.

 Avoid sediment movement into wetland areas by using settling ponds or silt pits at suitable
points.

5.2.6. Mitigations of impacts on health, sanitation and safety


At the time of tendering of the Project, the Contractor should be requested to submit the Health and
Safety Action Plan (HSAP) as well as the Environmental Management Plan (EMP). In the HSAP the
following items should be included.

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

 Ensure adequate health and sanitation is provided in work places and worker camps. Provision of
adequate potable water to the workers, availability of water for bathing and other activities in
camps, adequate provision for resting, provision of safe food for the workers (if they are not daily
workers) are some of them.

 Good sanitation will be provided in camps including kitchens and latrines. Portable toilets will be
provided in work sites.

 Good drainage will be ensured in worker camps so that stagnation of water will not happen
causing mosquito breeding places.

 Installation of first aid facilities.

 Check on snake-bite treatment facilities at the nearest hospital and have a contingency plan in
place.

 Ensure occupational safety procedures among workers. Train the workers on aspects of
occupational safety and health on a regular basis. Ensure that the workers are using protective
gear at all times in the worksite.

 Use appropriate insecticide sprays, and/or dusts to minimise the mosquito menace. Take advice
from the Anti-Malaria and Anti-Filaria Campaign officers in the respective areas.

 Use pyrethrum-coated mosquito nets at work camps in malaria-prone areas.

 Have emergency preparedness plans ready and educate the workers on them.

 Make arrangements to dispose of recyclable waste as appropriate at separate collecting points:


for paper, cans, tins, bottles, cardboard, and polythene. Bury the vegetable waste used in food
preparation which will decay without difficulty.

 Restore work sites by appropriate means after completion of work. Levelling, provision of
drainage, planting vegetation, landscaping, or converting to a playground for the village are some
options.

5.2.7. Mitigation of impacts on disposal of waste water


As discussed in chapter 2 the treatment for wastewater is only a biological process primarily aiming
treatment of domestic type waste water which is collecting from toilets, bathrooms, kitchens, canteens
etc. In addition to biodegradable organics, pollutants such as spills and wash waters which would not be
treated in the wastewater treatment plant would also be directed to the plant. Hence extreme care and
adequate mitigatory measures must be taken to avoid such contaminations.

Good housekeeping practices such as just in time manufacturing, reducing old stocks, recycling are
essential to reduce the amounts of any polluting substances running into the central treatment plant.
Reducing spills and proper storage are also important. Since oil can be damaging to the treatment plant
oil traps need to be planted in drains coming out of kitchens. To prevent solids from running into the
treatment plants meshes will be placed at intake point of the treatment plants. In addition, grit
chambers and settling tanks need to be installed prior to the treatment plant to take off solids and grit.

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Since there is only biological treatment in the treatment plant chemicals used for cleaning should not be
toxic. In addition water conservation practices and reuse of water needs to be employed to the
maximum extent possible.

Once the operation of industries start, effluent streams from individual industries need to be tested
from time to time to verify that the wastewater does not contain polluting substances which can be
unfavourable to the microorganisms in the treatment plant and would impede the treatment process.
Another major concern is the excessive levels of PO4-3 that might be in the waste water due to
detergents.

Since the treated effluent is proposed to be sent to the ponds in the Botanical gardens, it is proposed to
conduct frequent monitoring and analysis of it. The parameters to be tested include, the BOD, COD,
nutrients (N, P and K).

Tank 2 of Hambantota Botanical gardens will receive spill water from Tank 1 of the Botanical gardens (
See figures 19 and 20 in Chapter 4) which is the first recipient water body of the treated effluents of
the industrial park. Spill water or sluice issues from Tank 2 of Botanical gardens will go to the paddy
area downstream which is very small in extent (approximately 4.6Ha). Since water will be treated to the
desired standard there cannot be any impact on the downstream area, hence no mitigation measures
are needed except for periodic monitoring of water quality of Tank 1 and 2 of Botanical garden.
Discussions were held with officers of Department of Agrarian Development and they mentioned that
they would advise BoI through CEA that BoI should be vigilant about the water quality of treated
effluents (Refer Annex 4 e).

5.2.8. Mitigatory measures for the impact on disposal of treated waste water
to the ponds in the Botanical Garden
Monitoring including frequent testing plays a key role in safeguarding the quality of the water in the
ponds. If the treated effluent is found to contain high amounts of pollutants the treatment process will
be modified. Some of such proposed improvements are extended aeration and construction of
wetlands.

5.2.9. Mitigation of impacts on solid waste disposal


It is essential to promote integrated solid waste management plan in the proposed EPZ. Starting with
reduction of waste, priority will be given to minimise the formation of solid Waste. Here again good
housekeeping practices such as use of bulk containers, inventory control, just in time manufacturing,
proper storage will be promoted.

For integrated waste management practices source separation is essential. Bins will be provided close
to the source of generation for these items. Material that can be recycled (eg. scrap metals from metal
industries, off cuts) will be separately collected in bins. They will be stored separately and sent to
recycling centres. For food waste and other garbage which had been separately collected from
construction camps and other places, biological treatment is the best management. If food waste is
separately collected they can be even sent to a close by piggery. For items which cannot be recycled or
composted, a controlled land fill will be established.

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

5.2.10. Mitigation of impacts on aesthetic environment


The following actions will be taken to mitigate the adverse impacts on aesthetic environment that
would arise from the proposed project at various stages of design, construction and operation periods.

 Assistance in architectural solutions to blighted properties towards provision of an aesthetic


landscape

 Compensate for lost vegetation and trees, particularly of economic, environmental and amenity
value as a possible mechanism for replacement of vegetation on either side of the roads within
the EPZ and also on the boundary. The tree species selected will be aesthetically pleasing and
easily established in the locality.

5.2.11. Mitigations of impacts on air pollution


5.2.11.1. Construction phase
The following mitigatory measures will be adopted during construction phase to control the air
pollution.

 Watering of exposed areas at least thrice a day would drastically cut down the fugitive emissions
from open areas. Water will be sprayed on a regular basis where soil is moved, in the mixing sites,
and in the temporary roads to keep the dust down. Unpaved areas need to be watered.

 Introducing speed limits for vehicles in construction areas and for vehicles transporting
construction materials, which generate fugitive dust is necessary. The materials transported in
these vehicles would be covered properly not to emit dust and also not to spill particles via
transport. The routes taken for the material transport will best be away from those used
regularly by commuters so that congestion can be reduced. Further, if off peak hours are used for
transport of construction materials it would be best but night time will be avoided. Collaborate
with local authorities and comply with traffic police directives is also necessary.

 Ensure smooth traffic movement by providing adequate space and traffic control measures.

 Cover soil stockpiled for long periods or seed appropriately to prevent wind erosion.

In order to minimize the impacts from the air pollution from emissions from plant and machinery at
work sites

 Screening of particularly dusty work areas.


 Establishing vehicle wheel and body washing stations at exit points of construction sites.
 Positioning construction plants, which generate air pollution away from sensitive receivers.
 Provide on-site concrete and asphalt batching plants to reduce travel distances and time when
large volumes are required.
 Maintain construction machinery and vehicles in good condition to minimise exhaust emissions.
 Establishing good house-keeping practices to maintain clean construction areas.
 Establishing regular awareness programmes among the staff and workers involved about the
consequence of air pollution and mitigation strategies.

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

 Monitor emissions to ensure compliance with CEA ambient air quality regulations.

5.2.11.2. Operational Phase


The following measures will be followed to control air pollution in the EPZ;

 Stipulate speed limits for vehicles within the Zone

 Maintain good vegetation cover wherever possible within the EPZ. i.e. on either side of the roads,
boundaries of industries and boundary of the entire zone. These will function as buffer vegetation
to protect the adjoining residential areas from dust pollution. This is a long-term solution.

5.2.12. Mitigations for Noise impacts


5.2.12.1. Design Phase
Noise level of an industry will be pre-determined before the approval is granted by the BOI. High and
medium noise generating industries will be located far away from the residential areas while the lower
noise generating industries can be located close to the boundaries. According to the noise map
prepared for the operational stage of the EPZ by ITI, (except for scenario 2 where noise levels are high
during day and night time) the noise from the receptors which comprise of mostly residential areas
does not exceed the noise limits stipulated by CEA. However, apart from the 22 which had already
applied, there will be more industries established in the EPZ in the future. Therefore placement of the
industries needs to be done carefully so that the noise levels will not disturb the neighbouring
inhabitants in the project area.

5.2.12.2. Construction phase


The principal source of noise during the construction phase of the project will be the operation of
construction plant and equipment. Correct operation and maintenance of this equipment (e.g. pile
drivers, compressors, jack picks, circular saws, rock drills etc.) are effective ways of mitigation of noise.
Further, there are many ways to control construction noise with good site practice such as:

 Use equipment with adequately sized exhaust silencers.


 Use silent equipment where ever possible.
 Provide engine enclosures for certain equipment.
 Use low noise type equipment such as hydraulic jacking type vibration pile wherever possible.
 Keep equipment in good working order and fit correctly.
 Use noisy equipment such as drillers, compressors, circular saws, etc., only when absolutely
necessary.
 Undertake noisy operations such as pile driving only during daytime hours
 Use silencers (mufflers) on specific items of plant and machinery, e.g. generators and
compressors, to soften the impact particularly when working near residences and other sensitive
sites.
 Prohibit the use of loud air horns at construction sites and by heavy vehicles when transporting
materials.

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

 Scheduling of activities to avoid high noise exposure levels as per the maximum noise level given
in Chapter 4.
 Positioning of equipment as far as practical from noise sensitive receivers.
 Use temporary noise barriers, screeners or earth bands.
 Measure noise levels at different locations as laid down in the CEA regulations.
 Instruct workers to wear ear protectors where noise levels exceed 80 decibels.

The monitoring for achieving the results will be done by the personnel stipulated in the Environmental
Monitoring Plan in Chapter 7.

5.2.13. Operational phase


Following mitigation measures will be adopted to control noise during operation phase

 For the industries which require stand by power, it is recommended that sound proof generators
be used.
 It is recommended to obtain the service from an engineer for plant design with respect to noise
mitigation before commencing the construction and installation of machinery
 All industries should have a buying policy to include low noise equipments for purchasing or plant
and machinery for their industries, invitation to tenders for the supply of new plant/machinery
should have specified noise levels.
 Where it is not practicable to comply with national standards through engineering noise control
measures, administrative noise control measures may also be used. If administrative controls are
used, there will be regular checks to ensure that they are fully and correctly complied with.
 A vegetation buffer would be maintained right around the premises to minimise noise emissions

5.2.14. Mitigations for vibration impacts


5.2.14.1. Construction phase
Though it is short term, mitigatory measures to control vibration levels during construction period will
be adopted. The principal sources of vibration pollution in this phase of the project will be the operation
of construction vehicles and other equipment which are being used for excavation, compaction, pilling,
drilling, etc. Correct operations, maintenance and site practices of those equipments are the most
effective way of mitigating the vibration pollution.

Adoptions of control methodologies are also common in mitigation of vibration. Some mitigatory
measures which could be adopted to control vibration pollution are as follows.

 Where applicable, low vibratory equipments such as hydraulic jacking type vibration pile and
based pile systems etc. will be used.
 Equipments will be kept in good working order
 Vibratory equipment such as drillers, compressors, circular saws, etc., will be used in daytime
with minimum operation time.

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

 Equipment will be positioned of as far as practical from vibration sensitive receivers.


 Workers safety equipment will be provided as much as possible

These measures will be incorporated in the tender / contract documents to specify the interim
vibration standards to be met. Further any vibration mitigation will be corrected out by the contractor.

5.2.15. Mitigation of the impact on drainage pattern


5.2.15.1. During Construction
The EPZ has a very comprehensive storm water drainage system with culverts and related infrastructure
(Refer figure 5 ). In addition to this, the following precautions can be taken to reduce any impact on the
natural drainage pattern in the site during the construction period;

 Avoid crossing non perennial water bodies as far as possible when transporting construction
materials
 Avoid water drainage paths, when infrastructure facilities are constructed
 Provide alternative drainage paths for the ones disturbed

5.2.15.2. During Operation


 Continuously monitor the status of drainage infrastructure
 Maintain the silt traps periodically on removing silt
 Maintain the drainage connections to the existing drainage paths

5.2.16. Mitigation measures for soil erosion and siltation


5.2.16.1. During Construction
Soil erosion during construction will be avoided as far as possible by limiting cut and fill areas only to
the places where construction of buildings, roads etc. are necessary. It is also prudent to construct the
drains first as these drains could act as silt traps. Suitable silt traps should also be provided in the drains
by lowering the drain bed at the drain outlets.

Landscaping the premises and improvement of the land cover will be implemented to mitigate the
impact on erosion. A suitable landscaping plan for the project premises will be prepared. Paving (to a
limited extent), soil compaction, turfing will also minimize soil erosion. As the land cover will get
stabilized by the construction and landscaping activities there will not be severe siltation at the
operation stage.

Soil ingress to the tanks will be avoided by installing silt traps in the valleys which bring water to the
tanks. Silt ingress from construction to the tank from the peripheral areas will be avoided by using sand
bags. However it is not necessary to use sandbags to cover the entire tank periphery and such measure
is needed only at vulnerable locations. Limiting or phasing out construction activities near the tank
periphery and maintaining reservation for the tank periphery will also serve as mitigation measures.
Further, de-siltation of silt traps will be carried out periodically.

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

5.2.17. Mitigation measures for tanks


The mitigation measures suggested in the section above apply. Suggested reservation is 10m for the
tank periphery as well as for the tank bund. No construction activities will be done within the tank
periphery.

5.2.18. Mitigation measures for impact on drainage paths


All drainage paths had been correctly identified at site by observing run off pattern during rainy season.
All such paths were demarcated and these drainage paths will not be disturbed by construction
activities. These drainage path flows are directed to the predetermined culverts shown in amended
drainage management plan (See Figure 22)

90
MIRIJJAWILA EXPORT PROCESSING ZONE

PROPOSED STORM WATER MANAGEMENT PLAN

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

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8
SCALE 1 : 8000
Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

5.2.19. Mitigation measures for Tsunami risk impact


It is necessary to liaise with the district office of the Disaster Management Centre to obtain timely
warnings etc. about impending Tsunamis. Timely evacuation is the best mitigation measure. Other than
that, it is also necessary to design the buildings and other infrastructure according to the recent
guidelines titled as “Guidelines for Housing Development in Coastal Sri Lanka- GTZ for National Housing
Development Authority, Ministry of Housing and Construction Tsunami Disaster Housing Program-
2005” which provides all planning aspects, provisions for physical infrastructure, best practices in
environment conscious design etc.

It is also necessary to plan evacuation routes in case of such a disaster. Existing road network could be
used for this purpose. However routes will be finalized in collaboration with the district disaster
management office.

5.3. Mitigation of Socio Cultural impacts


There are no inhabitants within the site and therefore relocation/resettlement does not arise. However,
there is inhabitation at very close proximity to the site especially on the other side of the Sooriyawewa
Road. The mitigations for the possible impacts of air quality, noise and vibration both during the
construction and operation of the EPZ has been detailed in the relevant sections. By adhering to the
good housekeeping practices and adhering to the EMP to be prepared by the Contractor during the
bidding stage, the ill effects of the construction on the workforce as well as the adverse impacts of the
workforce especially the migratory work force to the inhabitants of the locality can be reduced. This
encompasses training of the workforce on numerous aspects including culture and society. By adhering
to the HSAP of the Contractor, the adverse impacts such as accidents, diseases etc. on the work force
can be minimized. By resorting to proper solid waste management and waste water management as
detailed above the possible distress and inconveniences on the society can be minimized.The following
are some of the mitigations that can be followed to minimise the impacts on socio cultural aspects of
the project area.

5.3.1. Mitigation of impact of population change


The project management will educate the local authorities about the anticipated change in the
population in and around the proposed project area, so that they can positively address the issues by
taking proper measures to accommodate the increasing population density.

5.3.2. Mitigation of harmful impacts of urbanization


The political and administrative authorities of the district will be made aware of the anticipated
urbanization impact of the proposed project and consequent harmful social impacts. The project
management has to work with such authorities to avoid any negative impact of such urbanizing process
on the smooth functioning of the proposed project.

5.3.3. Mitigation of negative impacts of migration of people


As the project is being implemented in a sparsely populated area the project management has to pay
special attention to provide accommodation facilities to the employees. Provision of transportation
facilities may also facilitate employees’ daily travelling for working in the project site In addition the
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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

project management has to make the local authorities aware of the impacts of peoples’ migration on
the area around the project.

5.3.4. Mitigation of the impacts of increasing land values


Local authorities and the districts administration will be made aware of anticipated problems such as
illegal land encroachment, fraudulent acts of land possession and sale that would stem from increasing
demands for lands in the area when the proposed projects start its operation. The project area will be
clearly demarcated and protected so that it may be not affected by land encroachment or any other
fraudulent act pertaining to the use of its lands in the area.

5.3.5. Mitigation of impact on infrastructure facilities


The construction of all infrastructure facilities such as roads, buildings, public places, supply of
electricity, construction of telecommunication towers, water supply and system of garbage & other
waste disposals, drainages etc, will be accomplished with proper precautionary measures taken in -
the project site. Such facilities should also be protected from abusive or illegal uses.

5.3.6. Mitigation of the impact of traffic


The project must take necessary precautionary measures to control the increasing traffic in and around
the proposed project, not only in the period of construction but also in the operation. Traffic speed
limits will be set and displayed clearly at important points of the project site and even around it.

5.3.7. Mitigation of the impact of disposal of garbage and industrial emissions


The project has to protect and assure the healthy life of people working in the project sites and living
around it through a systematic mechanism of disposing garbage and industrial emissions. Such practices
should not contaminate the hygienic condition of water and the fertile condition of soil around the
project area.

5.3.8. Mitigation of impact on public safety and security


The project should assure the safety of people working in the project site and living in the affected area,
taking proper precautionary measures in the course of constructions as well in operations. Security
guidelines will be introduced and displayed at selected places within the project and around it. Each
project unit should have fire extinguishers in adequate quality, quantity and accessible points. The
whole work force will be educated about the security measures adopted by the project and regular
awareness programs will be conducted. Their capability of facing an unexpected situation will be tasted
through mock incidents to assure proper reactions in real situations.

The threat to the public safety and security may be different depending on the type of industry,
chemicals, technology, and equipments involved in the project. Therefore the project should pay special
attention to identify each and every potential harmful impact in order to guarantee the security of
people directly or indirectly exposed to them. Security check lists should also be regularly marked and
maintained to assure the safety of employees.

5.3.9. Mitigation of impact on peace and order


Peace and order is indispensable for the effective functioning of the project and therefore the project
should organize and control its activities leaving no room for the violation of rules and regulations by

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

people directly or indirectly involved in project activities. Protection of people and properties in the
project site will be assured through internal security systems equipped with modern crime control
techniques. The project management should have a proper mechanism to address labor disputes.
Conflicts of interests, Individual and collective conflicts, and solve them before they escalate in to
violent and destructive proportions.

Such a mechanism should prevent sexual harassment and exploitation in the work place too. In
particular, the women of the work force will be assured of the secure work environment. The project
management should have a formal relationship with the police and obtain its service to guarantee the
security of people in the periods of construction and operation of project, in case the security of work
force is at stake. The police will be made fully aware of all security requirements, so that they could take
necessary actions in advance.

5.3.10. Mitigation of impacts of trade unions and political movements


Social stability is a prerequisite of smooth functioning of the project. Trade union actions and political
movements may disturb the stability in case they are not dealt with positive reactions. The project
should listen to labor concerns and address them with fair solutions.

5.3.11. Mitigation of impact on the well-being of people


In order to mitigate the negative impact on the well-being of people working in the project site and
living in and around the zone, appropriate recreational facilities will be established and maintained in
the period of the operation of the project. Such facilities may facilitate the effective use of leisure time
of employees and employers.

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Chapter 6
Environmental Monitoring
Plan

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

6. Environmental Monitoring Plan


The Environmental Monitoring Plan (EMP) has been made to ensure that the items listed in the
Mitigations in Chapter 5 will be carried out to minimize the environmental risk of the proposed project
(Table 34) .This includes Environmental aspect to be monitored, time period, frequency and location
of monitoring activities , Indicators , responsibility and funding for the monitoring activities in detail.

6.1. Availability of funds, expertise and facilities for


monitoring
The funds for monitoring will be included into the contractual agreement and tendering will be made on
the total.

With regards to the monitoring of air, noise and vibration; the state organizations who possess
expertise for those areas are CEA, ITI and NBRO. With regards to water quality monitoring, NWSDB is
the state organization while there are many other private sector enterprises who are also dealing with
it. Tsunami status will be monitored and funded by the Disaster Management Centre.

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Table 34. Environmental Monitoring Plan for the Proposed EPZ in Mirijjawila

Environmental Period Location Indicators Monitoring Responsibility Funding


Aspect Frequency
Weather data Operational Within site Rainfall, temperature, humidity, wind Daily BOI/Developer Developer/BOI
conditions
Noise Construction Construction sites Noise level measurements during day Bi monthly Building Contractor Developer/BOI
Phase and night

Operational Noise generating Noise level measurements during day After one Industry/BOI/Devel Industry
Phase industries and night month of oper/CEA
operation and
thereafter
every year
At the baseline data Cumulative noise from the EPZ - Noise Every 6 BOI/Developer/CE Developer
collection points level measurements during day and night months A
stipulated in Chapter 3
Vibration Construction Construction sites Vibration level Bi monthly Contractor Developer/BOI
Phase
Operational At the baseline data Vibration level On complaint Industry Industry
Phase collection points basis
stipulated in Chapter 3
Air Quality Construction Construction sites PM10, PM2.5 NO2,CO,SO2, CO2 , O3 Bi monthly Contractor/BOI Contractor
Phase
The condition of the construction Bi weekly Contractor/BOI
equipment
The no of uncovered vehicles bringing Weekly Contractor/BOI
construction material to site

Operational At the baseline data PM10, PM2.5 NO2,CO,SO2, CO2 , O3 3 monthly Developer/BOI Developer/BOI
Phase collection points
stipulated in Chapter 3
Stack emissions PM10, PM2.5 NO2,CO,SO2, CO2 , O3 3 monthly Industry Industry

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Environmental Period Location Indicators Monitoring Responsibility Funding


Aspect Frequency
Soil Erosion & Construction Project premises, Nature and quantity of eroded and silted Regularly Developer/BOI Developer/BOI
Siltation of Phase & roadside drains, tanks soil
tanks and Operation
drains Phase
Tsunami Risk Construction Project premises and Tsunami wave height , arrival speed When Tsunami Developer/BOI to Disaster
Phase surrroundings ( No need to monitor by Developer/BOI) warnings are follow Tsunami Management
& in force Warnings and Center
Operation arrange evacuation
Phase process
Surface and Construction At the locations Temperature, pH, Electrical Conductivity, 3 monthly Developer/BOI Developer/BOI
Ground water Phase specified in Chapter 3 Turbidity, Salinity, Total Coliform count,
Quality DO, BOD,
Waste water Operational Outlets in individual Volume of discharge Daily Industry Industry
Phase industries Color, Turbidity, suspended solids, pH,
Common waste water TDS, EC, Total alkalinity, Total hardness,
treatment plant Chloride, Fluoride, Total N, Nitrate, Total Monthly
Phosphate, Total sulphate, Cd, Zn, Pb, Ni,
DO, BOD, COD, Oil and Grease, Total
Coliform count, E.Coli count
Outlets of the Color, Turbidity, suspended solids, pH, Monthly BOI BOI
Common Water TDS, EC, Total alkalinity, Total hardness,
Treatment Plant Chloride, Fluoride, Total N, Nitrate, Total
Phosphate, Total sulphate, Cd, Zn, Pb, Ni,
DO, BOD, COD, Oil and Grease, Total
Coliform count, E.Coli count
The tanks in the Color, Turbidity, suspended solids, pH, Monthly BOI BOI
Botanical Garden at TDS, EC, Total alkalinity, Total hardness,
Mirijjawila who is Chloride, Fluoride, Total N, Nitrate, Total
receiving the waste Phosphate, Total sulphate, Cd, Zn, Pb, Ni,
waters DO, BOD, COD, Oil and Grease, Total
Coliform count, E.Coli count

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Environmental Period Location Indicators Monitoring Responsibility Funding


Aspect Frequency
Solid Waste Construction Construction sites The no of waste piles lying on site Daily Contractor/Develo Contractor
Management Phase The no of plant debris piles lying on site per/BOI
without suitable disposal
The presence of burning of debris on site

Operational Individual Industries Waste quantity Daily Industry Industry


Phase Waste composition Daily Industry Industry
Waste collection mechanism adopted
Records of quantities of waste sent out
of the Zone for
recovery/recycling/thermal
destruction/land fill

Safety and Construction Construction sites The availability of a Health and Safety Monthly Contractor/BOI Contractor
health issues period Plan
The no of workers wearing safety gear
The no. of occupational related accidents
No of training programmes conducted on
the health and safety aspects to workers
No of toilets/workers
The arrangements of potable water for
the workers and also the conditions of
the lodgings

Safety and Operational Inside the Zone No of reported personnel safety and Monthly Industry/BOI Industry
health of Phase health issues (no, of personal injuries ie
workers/public major, minor, fatal etc.)
related to No of medical checkups undergone by
exposure to workers, no of training/awareness
chemicals, programmes conducted for workers, no.
handling and of complaints from public
other activities

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

Environmental Period Location Indicators Monitoring Responsibility Funding


Aspect Frequency
Social status Construction In the 27 families No of complaints regards inconveniences Monthly Contractor/BOI Contractor
Phase listed in Chapter 3 caused due to traffic congestion, road
living at close damages, intrusion into the socio cultural
proximity to the EPZ environment, economic and other social
benefits enjoyed etc.
No of personnel employed by the
contractors from the local environment
Operational In the 27 families The socio economic status of the 6 monthly Industry/BOI Industry
Phase listed in Chapter 3 neighboring communities due to EPZ
living at close The land value in the neighborhood
proximity to the EPZ & The no of complaints due to change in
relevant others culture of the locality
The no. of employments gained from the
EPZ to the neighboring community

Removal of Construction Construction sites The no of animal deaths due to Daily Contractor/BOI
vegetation period vegetation removal

The no of occurrence of damage to Weekly Contractor/BOI


reservations due to vegetation removal

Operational In the conservation The status of biodiversity 6 monthly BOI BOI


period areas within the EPZ
and in adjacent areas
of the Zone

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Chapter 7
Conclusions and
Recommendations

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Final EIA Report for the Proposed Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Mirijjawila, Hambanthota

7 Conclusions and Recommendations


7.1 Conclusion
The EIA Study considered the environmental impacts of the construction of the EPZ in Mirijjawila,
Hambanthota. Due to the strategic location in the EPZ in relation to the Seaport, this site was
considered as the best site out of all the proposed sites. However the BOI opted to entertain only the
types of industries which accommodating low industrial effluent generation activities to minimize the
adverse impacts on the environment.

As the site has been already cleared when it was under the UDA and some of the road and electrical
infrastructure are in place to a certain extent, the magnitude of impact from this proposed intervention
to the natural environment becomes less than had it opened pristine natural forest. There are no
inhabitants in the project site and no relocation is required. The environmental impacts, especially the
ones of high significance, have been discussed in detail in Chapter 4 of this report. The measures to
mitigate them have been detailed in Chapter 5 while a comprehensive monitoring plan has been
detailed in Chapter 6. If the mitigation measures are carried out satisfactorily and EMoP is implemented
properly, the anticipated impacts on the environment can be minimized to a great extent.

7.2 Recommendations
The recommendation of the EIA Study is the implementation of the proposed project with the
mitigations suggested in Chapter 5 of the Report and adhering strictly to the monitoring plan described
in Chapter 6.

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