GAZETTE NOTICE NO. 1573

PURSUANT to Regulation 21 of Environmental (Impac t Assessment and Audit) regulations, the National Environmental THE KENYA GAZETTE 10th February, 2012 370 370 Management Authority (NEMA) has received an Environmental Impact Assessment Study Report for the implementation of the proposed Maraba Waste Stabilization Ponds The proposed project entails the construction of Maraba Waste Stabilization Ponds. The Maraba ponds will be discharging into River Lwatingu. The proposed project site is located in Maraba approximately 8 Km away from Kakamega Town next to Lwatingu River. It is in Maraba ward, Lurambi Constituency, Kakamega District. The following are the anticipated impacts and proposed mitigation measures: Environmental issue Mitigation Measures Direct land take  All the affected people were identified by type of loss and extent of damages.  Land acquisition was carried out in accordance with World Bank resettlement policy which requires quantification of impacts on land based on livelihood and fair compensation to land owners and the people relying on the land for their residence and/or livelihood.  Adequate compensation of the affected persons was done before construction works commenced. Soil-Related Impacts  The valuable top soil containing organic material, nutrients as well as seeds and the soil fauna to be excavated separately and piled in an adequate manner for re-use.  After completion of the construction works the Contractor to ensure immediate restoration by spreading piled top soil and by sowing adequate grass.  Put up erosion control measures such as gabions and gunny bags filled with soil where there are erosion signs to slow down storm water flow in these sections during heavy rains.  Plan emergency response measures in case of accidental oil spills during construction. Impacts on Land  A site waste management plan to be prepared by the contractor. This should include designation of appropriate waste storage areas, collection and removal schedule and identification of approved disposal site.  Unusable construction waste, such as damaged pipes, formwork and other construction material, to be disposed of at an approved dumpsite or sold to willing buyers for salvage value.  Proper solid waste receptacles and storage containers to be provided, particularly for the disposal of lunch and drink boxes so as to prevent littering of the site.  Arrangements to be made for the regular collection of litter and for its disposal with the Local Council. Impact on Water Resources  Construction materials and other debris (lime, cement and fresh concrete, etc.) shall be prevented from entering water ways.  Treated effluent being discharged to the river to be tested and monitored on a daily basis.  The proponent to ensure proper maintenance of drainage system like regular cleaning to ensure smooth flow of the storm water and to avoid blockages and overflows especially during rainy seasons.  Use silt or clay soils for pond foundations and construction as these soils wont allow the wastewater to quickly percolate down through the lagoon bottom to the groundwater.  External slopes to be protected from storm water erosion by providing adequate drainage.  Surface drainage or storm runoff to be kept out of the ponds, if necessary diversion terraces or drains should be installed above the site. Sanitation Impacts  Maintain good hygiene at construction camps.  A site waste management plan to be prepared by the Contractor prior to the commencement of construction works. This should include designation of appropriate waste storage areas, collection and removal schedule and identification of approved disposal site.  Unusable construction waste, such as damaged pipes, formwork and other construction material, to be disposed of at  an approved dumpsite or sold to willing buyers for salvage value. Impact on wildlife habitats and bio-diversity  Re-plant the indigenous vegetation as much as is practical once work is completed.  Spare the vegetation that must not necessarily be removed such as trees.  Spilled cement or concrete should be collected and disposed away from storm water drainage.  Maintain operations at the ponds clear of unwanted vegetation.  The ponds are located away from the vicinity of any airports and no hazards are envisaged. Odours, Air pollution, Air Quality and Noise Impacts  Anaerobic ponds have been satisfactory designed, on the basis of volumetric BOD loading.  The proponent (LVNWSB) to ensure proper operation and maintenance of the waste stabilization ponds.  Maintaining high performance of biological treatment of waste water and chemical treatment of sludge.  Restrict delivery of materials on the drier seasons.  Construction sites and transportation routes to be water-sprayed on dry and windy days up to three times a day, especially if these sites are near sensitive receptors, such as residential areas.  Vehicles and construction machinery will be required to be properly maintained and to comply with relevant emission standards.  In the event that delivery trucks damage parts of the road, repair the spots in consultation with the local authorities. The full report of the proposed project is available for inspection during working hours at: (a) Director General, NEMA, Popo Road, off Mombasa Road, P.O. Box 67839 - 00200, NAIROBI 10th February, 2012 THE KENYA GAZETTE (b) Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, NHIF Building, Community, P.O. Box 30521, Nairobi (c) Provincial Director of Environment, Western Province. (d) District Environmental Officer, Kakamega South & North Districts. The National Environment Management Authority invites members of the public to submit oral or written comments within thirty (30) days from the date of publication of this notice to the Director General, NEMA, to assist the Authority in the approval process of the project. SALOME MACHUA , For: Director-General, MR/8843232 National Environment Management Authority.