EIA by ADB

Environmental Assessment Report
Summary Environmental Impact Assessment

Project Number: 39431
July 2006
Sri Lanka: Proposed Colombo Port South Harbor

Development Project
Prepared by the Sri Lanka Ports Authority for the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
The summary environmental impact assessment is a document of the borrower. The views
expressed herein do not necessarily represent those of ADB’s Board of Directors,
Management, or staff, and may be preliminary in nature.
CURRENCY EQUIVALENTS
(As of 30 May 2006)
Currency Unit – Sri Lanka rupee/s (SLRe/SLRs)
SLRe1.00 = $0.0097
$1.00 = SLRs102.96
ABBREVIATIONS
ADB – Asian Development Bank

CCD – Coast Conservation Department
CEA – Central Environmental Authority
CEB – Ceylon Electricity Board
CPC – Ceylon Petroleum Corporation
CSH – Colombo South Harbour
EMC – environmental monitoring committee
EMP – environmental management plan
GFG – Galle Face Green
PIU – project implementation unit
SLPA – Sri Lanka Ports Authority
TIA – traffic impact analysis
TSHD – trailing suction hopper dredger
WEIGHTS AND MEASURES
dB[A] – decibels [measured in audible human range]

cm/sec – centimeters per second
km – kilometer
km2 – square kilometer
m – meter
m3 – cubic meter
mm – millimeter
mpn/100 ml – most probable number per 100 milliliter
vpd – vehicles per day
NOTE
In this report, “$” refers to US dollars.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
MAPS
I. INTRODUCTION 1
II. PROJECT DESCRIPTION 1
III. DESCRIPTION OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS 3
A. Geophysical Environment 3
B. Biological Environment 5
C. Socioeconomic Environment 6
IV. ALTERNATIVE ANALYSIS 7
A. Alternative Harbor Locations 7

B. Alternative Layouts for the Harbor and Key Consideration in Developing
the Harbor Layout 7
V. ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT AND MITIGATION MEASURES 8
A. Impacts on the Physical Environment 8

B. Impacts on the Marine Ecology and Fisheries 12
C. Impacts on the Socioeconomic Environment 13
VI. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 14
VII. ECONOMIC ASSESSMENT 15
VIII. PUBLIC CONSULTATIONS 16
IX. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS 17
APPENDIXES
1. List of References 18
2. Environmental Management Plan 19
3. Environmental Monitoring Plan 29
4. Additional Personnel to be Attached to the PIU for Successful
Implementation of EMP 30
5. List of Public Consultations 31
Map 1
80 o00'E 81o30'E
SRI LANKA
PROPOSED COLOMBO PORT
it
t ra Kankasanturai SOUTH HARBOR DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
S
lk Jaffna Kodikamam
a
P
Project Area
National Capital
Provincial Capital
Kilinochchi
Palk Bay City/Town
Mullaittivu National Road

Provincial Road
Talaimannar
Mankulam Railway
River
9o00'N NORTHERN 9o 00'N
Puliyankulam
District Boundary
Mannar
Provincial Boundary
Vavuniya Boundaries are not necessarily authoritative.
Gulf of Mannar
Trincomalee
Horowupotana
Muttur
Anuradhapura
NORTH CENTRAL
Tambuttegama
Kekirawa Hingurakgoda
Puttalam
Welikanda
Batticaloa
Polonnaruwa
Dambulla
EASTERN Kalmunai
NORTH
WESTERN
Chilaw
Unichchai
Reservoir
Madampe Kurunegala Matale
CENTRAL Bay of
Polgahawela
Kandy Ampara Bengal
Mawanella
Negombo Warakapola
Kegalle
Gampola
Gampaha Badulla
7o00'N Nuwara Eliya 7 o00'N
Welimada
COLOMBO Avissawella
Hatton UVA
Monaragala
Moratuwa Bandarawela
WESTERN Ratnapura Wellawaya
Pelmadulla Halangoda
Kalutara SABARAGAMUWA
Alutgama
N
Elpitiya
Ambalangoda
Hikkaduwa SOUTHERN 0 10 20 30 40 50
Akuressa Hambantota
Kilometers
I N D I A N O C E A N Galle Tangalle
80 o00'E Matara 81o30'E
06-2060B RM
New Port Old Port
SRI LANKA
PROPOSED COLOMBO PORT
SOUTH HARBOR DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
LAYOUT OF NEW HARBOR
N
Submarine Pipeline
COMMON
USER
AREA
06-2060a RM
Map 2
I. INTRODUCTION
1. The Government of Sri Lanka has requested the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to
provide a loan to fund the Government’s project to expand the Port of Colombo by developing
the Colombo South Harbour (CSH). The proposed Expansion of the Colombo South Harbour
Project (the project) has been included in ADB’s pipeline as a firm project for approval in 2006.
The Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) is the Executing Agency for the project.
2. The project will build breakwaters, terminals, and channels—all within SLPA port limits.
The project is (i) under category A according to ADB’s Environmental Assessment Guidelines
(2003), and (ii) listed as a “prescribed project” according to the National Environmental Act 47 of
1980 as amended by Act 56 of 1988. Therefore, an environmental impact assessment (EIA)
was prepared. As the project is under the jurisdiction of the Coast Conservation Department
(CCD) according to the Government’s Coast Conservation Act 57 of 1981, the environmental
approval and the permit for development activity have been obtained from CCD. The EIA report
for the project was approved by CCD on 12 December 2005.
3. This summary EIA has been prepared for ADB. It includes (i) a general project overview,
(ii) a general overview of the existing environmental conditions, (iii) a brief description of
potential impacts and mitigation measures, and (iv) a proposed management plan. The
summary EIA is based on the EIA report and the environmental management plan (EMP) and
several other technical studies as listed in Appendix 1. The EIA’s main objective is to assess the
potential environmental impacts of the construction of marine infrastructure, and the associated
civil works and the subsequent operation of the CSH phase-I1 development. The EIA study was
carried out from January 2003 to April 2005. The EMP and monitoring plan are summarized in
Appendixes 2 and 3.
4. The EIA and EMP were prepared by Scott Wilson Kirkpatrick and Co Ltd, which was
engaged under Loan 1841-SRI to prepare the project’s detailed engineering study. The EIA
report was prepared in accordance with the relevant laws and Government regulations. The EIA
and EMP reports, in principle, cover all the requirements set out in ADB’s Environmental
Assessment Guidelines (2003).
II. PROJECT DESCRIPTION
5. The project comprises a new outer basin enclosed by breakwater and served by
navigation channels. The south, east, and west 1 terminals will be built,2 each with a quay
length of 1,200 meters (m) and three or four berths. The project layout is in Map 2. The
breakwater will provide sheltered water to allow ships to maneuver, berth, load, and unload
safely. The total length of breakwater is about 5,000 m. The leeward side of the breakwater will
be reclaimed to provide container storage areas with berths on the harbor side.
1
This EIA focuses on assessing the impacts of construction and operation of marine infrastructure and the
associated works for phase I. Phase 2 will not be required until 2023, and the study of its impact has been limited
to hydraulic modelling. The subsea pipeline will be rerouted under a design-and-build contract, and construction of
the container terminals will be part of a build-operate-transfer (BOT) concession. Although detailed designs were
not prepared for these elements, the form of construction and risks were assessed during EIA preparation.
2
There is also provision for phase II to extend west 1 to form west 2 terminal. This is not necessary until 2023 but
the hydrodynamic modelling has been developed to take phase II into account.
2
6. The approach channel will require dredging to provide sufficient width and depth to
permit safe navigation of the largest container vessels for the next 20 years. The approach
channels will provide two-way passage of vessels, with a minimum width of 570 m and depth of
20 m below the low water. Dredging will be done using a trailing suction hopper dredger (TSHD)
with a capacity of 6,000–8,000 cubic meters (m3), and the material will be deposited to a level of
7 m below sea level by bottom dumping. The dredging and reclamation will be a single
operation, with material dredged from the access channels to be placed in reclamation areas.
The dredged material (about 24.3 million m3) will be used in the core of the breakwater and
provide reclamation land for the leeward side of the breakwater, which will require about 23.6
million m3. The material to be dredged is all sand or silty sand. The dredging will cover about
820 hectares (ha) and the reclamation area 340 ha. Before starting dredging work in the vicinity
of pipeline, the new subsea pipeline will be installed to reroute the existing subsea pipeline,
which is within the new approach channel.
7. The terminals will be developed on a build-operate-transfer (BOT) basis. The detailed

designs will be developed by the concessionaire. Therefore, the environmental impacts have
been assessed based on the construction of the most common facilities and operating systems
used worldwide. This includes electrically operated (i) quayside gantry cranes, (ii) diesel engine
rubber-tyred gantries in the storage yards, and (iii) tractor and/or trailer units for transfer
between the cranes and the stacks. The project will be able to handle freight volume of about
2.4 million twenty-foot equivalent unit (TEU)/year. Each of the three 1,200 m terminals are
assumed to be subdivided into four 300 m quays comprising paved stacking areas with service
roads. The land behind the quays will consist of (i) a quay apron, which includes a crane back
reach area, utilities corridor, and road; and (ii) the container storage yard, including areas for
special containers,3 and utilities.
8. The access roads to the project will use the existing internal port roads that link to areas
outside the port by the dedicated Port Access Road, which connects to National Highway A003.
Some roads will be built within the port to ease movement of vehicles. This involves demolishing
three buildings, two warehouses, and an SLPA office. One warehouse (T5), although not listed
as a significant heritage building, has some interesting architectural features and will be
carefully dismantled to conserve the roof trusses, doors, and windows.
9. Improving other utilities involves increasing electricity supply to support the operation of
the new terminals, and accommodating more sewage. Total demand for energy will be about 80
megavolt-ampere (MVA). To meet this demand, a self-built energy generator will not be
necessary; the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) will increase its supply for the CSH, including for
the construction and operation of new facilities that will be established by the project. However,
a new substation will be constructed within the Port Authority area (near the CSH entrance) to
accommodate the CSH’s increasing demand for electricity.
10. The demand for water was calculated for each terminal, common user areas, and the
small-boat harbor (large vessels entering the CSH typically have their own desalination plants
on board and do not need water). The estimated demand will be a maximum of 1,220 m3 per
day, with about 1,000 m3 per day required during construction. Although there is a water
shortage in Colombo, the National Water Supply and Drainage Board confirms that with the
completion of the Kalu Ganga project in 2008, the demand for water supply to Colombo and the
3
Special containers are those not of standard size, damaged, or leaking. The area for special containers will be
bunded to contain any leakage. However, hazardous materials are not anticipated at the container terminal.
3
CSH operation, including the operation of new facilities established by the project, will be met.
Therefore, the project will not involve any activity to generate clean water.
11. Sewage requirements have been designed taking into account that larger vessels will
treat their sewage on board, and small vessels, without such facilities, will pump sewage into
the city network. The harbor sewer network is part of the Colombo sewage system. However,
the pipeline from the Queen Elizabeth Quay area to the pumping station at Kotahena is
inadequate and needs to be replaced. A total of about 1.9 kilometers (km), of which 1.3 km are
outside the port, needs to be replaced. The project requires that each terminal and group of
buildings have a package-type sewage treatment plant (PSTP) so that only treated effluent is
pumped to the city sewage system. The city sewage network is too far from the small-boat
harbor and so properly treated sewage will be discharged directly into the sea. All treated
sewage from the PTSPs will comply with international effluent standards because there is no
country effluent standard. Waste oils are not expected from the operation of terminals apart
from vehicle maintenance workshops. However, the storm-water drainage system will be
completed with an oil separator before the water is discharged to the outlets.
12. The offshore single bouy mooring and subsea pipeline were installed in 1986, within the
fishing restriction area and the port limits. The 36-inch-diameter pipeline crosses the north and
the main channel to the harbor and is within the final approach channel of the new CSH. A study
considered either lowering the pipeline in situ or rerouting it clear of all future development.
However, rerouting the subsea pipeline is preferable. Therefore, the sub-pipeline will be
rerouted before dredging for the channel starts. Since the pipeline belongs to Ceylon Petroleum
Corporation (CPC), the works will be carried out by SLPA in close coordination with CPC.
13. The project will involve three procurement contracts: (i) rerouting the subsea oil pipeline;
(ii) marine infrastructure and associated works under a public-funded contract; and (iii) container
terminals, their superstructures, and buildings under a privately financed concession agreement.
The subsea pipeline is expected to be completely lowered within 8 months. The marine
infrastructure and associated works will require around 3.5 years, and terminal work about 3.0
years. These three types of works are expected to be carried out simultaneously; preparation
and construction will require a total of about 4 years.
III. DESCRIPTION OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
14. The project site is in Colombo City, on the west coast of Sri Lanka, to the west of the
Port of Colombo. The study area covers a radius of 2 km from the project site extended to at
least 2.5 km for the assessment of impacts upon fisheries.
A. Geophysical Environment
1. Climate
15. Sri Lanka has a tropical climate dominated by two monsoon periods: the southwest (SW)
monsoon (May–September) and the northeast (NE) monsoon (December–February). The
regional wind system is dominated by the monsoon effect and influenced locally by the daily
variation of sea-to-land and land-to-sea winds. It rains mainly during the NE and SW monsoons.
Average annual rainfall is estimated to be 2,000–2,500 millimeters (mm).
4
2. Hydrographic Conditions
16. The site is within the area of influence of the Kelani River which also influences sea
conditions at the Port of Colombo. Tides are low, ranging from 0.2 m (during the neap period) to
0.8 m (during the spring period). Average tidal current velocities are less than 10 centimeters
per second (cm/sec).
17. Nearshore current speeds are generally weak. Maximum tidal currents of 10–15 cm/sec
have been observed west of the harbor. These flow north on a rising flood tide and south on an
ebb tide. Wind-driven currents dominate the tidal currents, and the maximum surface currents
are 25–40 cm/s, and rarely about 80 cm/s because of ocean currents. As a result of the wave
climate, the net long-shore sediment transport is predominantly toward the north.
3. Sediment Transport
18. The net long-shore sediment transport is predominantly toward the north as a result of
the wave climate (SW monsoon sea waves and swell). However, during the NE monsoon, the
sediment transport (as a result of waves from northwest) is sometimes to the south. The net
movement across the CSH has been estimated at 250,000 m3/year. An important
geomorphologic feature in understanding the stability of the coastline is the existence of beach
rock, which fronts much of the coastline and indicates a sand deficit.
19. The beaches to the north of the site were dependant on sand feed from the Kelani River,
but over-mining of river sand has resulted in a deficit. Erosion of the coastline to the north
became a problem, and coast protection works were built.
4. Sediment Quality
20. Four sediment (and water quality) sampling programs have been carried out in and
around the site from 1996 to 2004. Historical analysis of sediment chemistry has indicated
elevated levels of heavy metals and other pollutants consistent with known land-based inputs in
and around the port. The most recent surveys, in 2003/2004, indicated moderate pollution from
heavy metals and organics but showed an overall decrease. The sediment in many places
comprises sand to sandy clay, with a low proportion of clay. The findings of the most recent
surveys (particle size and sediment chemistry) are possibly as a result of recent dredging.
5. Water Quality
21. Water quality is heavily influenced by land-based inputs, particularly the Kelani River and
the Mutwal sewage outfall to the north of the port, major outfalls in the inner harbor basin of the
port and the Beira Lake sea outfall, to the south of the port and the project. This is supported by
data as a result of all EIA surveys. During the monsoon, the Kelani River discharges a sediment
plume (with high turbidity), which extends southward beyond the port area.
22. Monitoring data from 2003/2004 indicates high levels of fecal coliforms, particularly
around the sewage outfall, the inner harbor basin, and the wider project area, which generally
exceed the guidelines for primary recreation of 150 most probable number per 100 milliliters
(mpn/100 ml), by about threefold. This was supported by baseline modeling program MIKE-21.
Modeling indicated that plume dispersal from fixed-point sources occurred in the northeast
direction along the coast during the SW monsoon, thus reducing water quality of inshore waters
to the north of the Kelani River. During the NE monsoon, this plume extends southwest along
5
the coast, reducing water quality off the Galle Face Green (GFG),an area used for informal
water recreation, immediately to the south of the proposed CSH. Other water-quality parameters
were generally found to be within the Australian and New Zealand Environment and
Conservation Council (ANZECC) 2000 guideline values for toxicants and recreational activities
The ANZECC guidelines have been adopted by the government authorities in the absence of
national standards.
6. Air, Noise, and Vibration
23. The ambient air quality around the CSH site is generally within accepted standards
except for particulate matter (PM10). Heavy urban traffic and the diesel power plants in and
around Colombo contribute to high PM10 levels in the area.
24. Ambient noise levels measured in and around the port indicate that road traffic is the
primary contributor. Measured levels are generally within the acceptable limits for “developed
land” (72dB[A]), but exceed the preferred levels (57dB[A]) at two places of worship (Chaitya and
St. Anthony’s churches) just outside the port.
25. Vibration was measured at two buildings of heritage interest (the SLPA Maritime
Museum and the Harbour Master’s Building) within the port to determine the effect of port-
related traffic. All measured levels were well within the Government’s guideline standards.
B. Biological Environment
1. Marine Ecology and Fisheries
26. Field surveys of plankton, nekton, benthos, and fisheries were carried out by the
National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA) in February and April
2005 as part of the EIA study. Five dive surveys were carried out along transects in the project
site. Of the principal habitats, only sandy seabed and open waters are affected by the project.
The area has four reefs, whose species are generally of low diversity and abundance. All are
significantly influenced by sediments from the Kelani River, with high turbidity as well as
accumulated sediments on the reef surface. The density and diversity of colonization by corals
is generally very low, typically 85% uncolonized. Only one species (damselfish) Pomacentrus
proteus is endemic. However, no species were recorded to be confined to the proposed
development area and no rare or endangered species were recorded. There are no protected
habitats around the site. The nearest sensitive habitat is the Negombo Suda reef (25 km north
and 15 km offshore), which supports 14% live coral cover and is permanently monitored by
NARA.
27. Fishing in the study area is predominantly carried out in the open marine waters north of
the Kelani River and in the Onagala area. There is a security zone around the port, where
fishing is not allowed. A total of 53 fish species and 4 shrimp and crab species were identified in
commercial catches landed at Modera Fish Harbour. In 2003, the total catch landed at Modera
was estimated to be 436.15 metric tons (MT) This catch is from an area to the north, which
extends beyond the 2.5 km radius from the project area. A new fish harbor is planned at
Dickowita to service these fishing grounds to the north.
6
C. Socioeconomic Environment
1. Land Use
28. The port development-related activity zone is Colombo City, with a population of about
642,000 in 2001. The outer periphery affected by the project is the Colombo Metropolitan
Region, including the administrative area of Colombo District and the adjoining Gampaha and
Kalutara districts, covering the entire Western Province. Land use in Colombo City is
predominantly residential (58%). Housing areas tend to coexist with businesses, and low-
income groups live alongside medium- and high-income groups. However, development
immediately surrounding the port is predominantly commercial and/or industrial. It is anticipated
that Colombo will see a reduction in the proportion of residential development relative to
commercial.
2. Employment
29. In 2001, unemployment was 8.8%. Unemployment in Colombo Municipality is lower than
the rest of the country, the area has a large unskilled youth labor force.
3. Traffic
30. The numbers of vehicles have increased rapidly over the last two decades. The roads
across Colombo City are congested from different sources for most of the working day. There is
no railway operation to Port of Colombo. However, there is a 1.6 km dual two-lane road (Port
Access Road) linking the port with outer Colombo. There are six gates from the SLPA area
connecting to the Colombo road network: (i) Gate 1 is in the SW of the port and connects to
GFG. It is restricted to light vehicles with special security permits. (ii) Gate 2 connects to Leyden
Bastian Road and is used as an alternative exit gate only for general cargo in small trucks. (iii)
Gate 3 is the main gate for all vehicles other than container trucks. (iv) Gate 4 is an alternative
gate for vehicles and general cargo in small trucks but is closed to outgoing traffic at night. This
gate connects to Srimath Ramanathan Street. (v) Gate 5 is dedicated to container trucks
entering and leaving the port. It connects to the Port Access Road. (vi) Gate 6 is used for
transporting cement, other bulk cargo, and empty containers. Vehicles pass over the Port
Access Road and along Srimath Ramanathan connecting to George R. De Silva Street near
gate 4. The Road Development Authority has planned a number of high-mobility roads radiating
out from the Western Province, and an outer Colombo ring road that could ease traffic
congestion in the city.
4. Recreation and Heritage
31. The principal recreation facility near the development is the GFG, (about 1.0–1.5 km
south of the development), which is popular with locals for informal and passive recreation.
Marine-based recreation is limited and is predominantly informal swimming from beaches. Boat
use is limited and does not occur within the immediate area surrounding the port because of
security restrictions.
32. The oldest remaining port structures of cultural heritage date from the arrival of foreign
powers, including the Portuguese in 1505, the Dutch in 1640, and the British in 1796. Principal
structures include remnants of the Battenburg Battery built under the Portuguese in the 16th
century, and a Dutch warehouse dating to the 17th century and has been converted into the
7
SLPA Maritime Museum and the Harbour Master’s Building. These structures are within the
boundary of the Port of Colombo or in the restricted area surrounding the President’s mansion
and are not generally accessible to the public.
IV. ALTERNATIVE ANALYSIS
A. Alternative Harbor Locations
33. The recommendation to develop additional port facilities at Colombo is the product of a
number of studies, including the most recent work by Scott Wilson, the feasibility study
completed in 2000, and an investigation by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)
in 1996. Consequently, the project has been integrated into national plans. To fit with the
development of new facilities under the project, SLPA plans to relocate some of the cargo
passing through the Port of Colombo, with liquid and dry bulk cargo going to Hambantota and
break-bulk cargo transferred to Galle.
B. Alternative Layouts for the Harbor and Key Consideration in Developing the
Harbor Layout
34. The feasibility study developed nine layout options, with a number of sub-options to
examine specific features. This process resulted in two options being put forward for detailed
consideration. Subsequently, the feasibility study design concept was reviewed and developed,
giving consideration to functional and operational requirements, as well as more detailed, up-to-
date information. Two primary options were then developed for the harbor layouts, and one
taken forward for more detailed analysis and design.
35. The design of marine structures of the project adjacent to the Port of Colombo requires
careful consideration on several issues. The position of the breakwaters and channel should be
as far to the south as possible to avoid interference with the entrance channel to the port.
However, investigations indicated high bedrock at the southern end; therefore, the position was
selected to avoid blasting. The breakwater alignment was also refined a number of times to
maximize the advantages of the underlying bathymetry. By following the contour lines, the
design sought to reduce the overall volume of rock needed for construction.
36. The orientation of the entrance is primarily associated with protecting the harbor from the
most severe wave direction. To achieve the desired levels of wave disturbance within the
harbor, the entrance width is restricted, which also restricts the penetration of sediment-laden
currents, which can enter the harbor, contributing to siltation.
37. To facilitate safe navigation, a wide entrance is needed that is free of complex wave
phenomena. While this helps vessels maneuver, it is at variance with the requirement for low
wave penetration. The overall impact of the layout on the coastal regime has been investigated
to ensure that changes to the coastline north and south of port will not be significant.
38. The preferred option minimizes constraints on the Port of Colombo and requires less
rock per unit length of breakwater than earlier proposals. The layout has been tested through
numerical and physical modeling to establish that the wave penetration and ship motion are
such that there is no operational down time.
39. While the design was being refined, no significant difference was found between the
options’ environmental impacts. The only material consideration was the opportunity to use less
8
rock in the preferred option. The process of refinement was primarily for engineering and
operational efficiency.
40. The most significant environmental consideration has been in the integrated design of
the breakwater and reclamation. The preferred breakwater design has been developed through
an iterative process of evaluation in terms of engineering, environment, and cost. It has taken
into account the principles of sustainable development, resulting in a number of positive
features:
(i) The design fully meets the necessary functional criteria such that it is safe and
stable, so any secondary environmental impacts associated with a failure are
limited.
(ii) It minimizes the volume of rock to be quarried as far as practical, reducing
associated secondary environmental impacts from quarrying and transport of
rock.
(iii) It avoids unnecessary disturbance of the seabed in areas not previously
disturbed.
(iv) It achieves a “material balance” in that all material dredged for navigation in the
basin and channels is reused in reclamation, with no need to import or dispose of
materials.
V. ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT AND MITIGATION MEASURES
41. Six construction activities could have environmental impacts: (i) transporting construction
materials for the breakwater; (ii) dredging to deepen the channel as well as lower the subsea
pipeline, and reclamation; (iii) upgrading the internal road; (iv) providing more power (power
distribution line, lighting); (v) upgrading the water supply; and (vi) upgrading the sewage
infrastructure.
A. Impacts on the Physical Environment
1. Environmental Impacts Caused by Supplying Rock
42. About 450,000 tonnes of aggregates will be required over 3 years. The supply of the
crushed rock for concrete aggregates and rock for breakwater armor will be determined by the
contractor. Based on three seasonal construction periods of 7 months, and 6 working days per
week, 550 truck movements will be needed per day. To minimize this potential impact, the rock
will be transported by barge, minimizing transport through Colombo City. Since the Government
approved the EIA report, a suitable source of rock has been identified at Oluvil. However, the
contractors will not be obliged to use it. Should quarry rock be sourced within Sri Lanka, the
contractor will complete a formal EIA and hold a separate permit for the extraction and delivery
of quarried rock to the project site.
2. Environmental Impacts from Dredging and Reclamation
43. Dredging and reclamation are a single operation, with material dredged from the access
channels placed in the reclamation sites. These works will physically disturb the seabed: about
340 ha for reclamation and 820 ha for the approach channel. The potential effects of these
activities during construction are (i) increased turbidity, (ii) associated with geotechnical stability,
and (iii) siltation in the harbor. During operation, the expected effects are (i) impact on sand and
sediment transport, (ii) siltation in the harbor, (iii) change in current patterns, (iv) change to
9
adjacent beaches, and (v) wave disturbance and collision hazard within the harbor (potential oil
spills and fire). All these impacts have been considered in preparing the layout of the new
facilities, and mitigation measures have been incorporated into the detailed engineering design.
A benefit from the dredging is the removal of about 1 million m3 of material that had been
dumped offshore to reinstate the natural seabed level. The overall expected impacts are
summarized below.
a. Increased Turbidity
44. Dredging might increase turbidity as a result of sediment excavation, loading, overflow,
transit, and placement for reclamation. To minimize increased turbidity, the use of the TSHD is
being considered. Disturbance will be limited by the restricted width of the TSHD’s head through
which excavated material is sucked. Turbidity will be minimized by using the right method:
placement by rainbowing (high-velocity pumping of the soil and water mixture out of the
discharge pipe in the bow of the vessel). The mixture is directed upward at an angle, causing
fines to escape and increase turbidity. If the discharge is pumped ashore via pipeline, the fines
can be contained in settling basins to lower the fines content of the runoff water.
45. The modeling study on dispersal of dredged sediment shows that fine sediments
released during dredging settle quickly after being discharged. The areas impacted by dredging
are expected to be limited to within 1 or 2 km of the dredge sites and, therefore, the beach and
nearshore area will not be affected. The repeated cycle of dredging and reclamation will have
no cumulative impact because the sediment from one dredging cycle will settle rapidly before
the next. Therefore, the potential impacts of increased turbidity are considered to be temporary
and localized.
b. Geotechnical Stability
46. Dredging and reclamation could cause impacts associated with geotechnical stability
that could affect existing structures. The risk of geotechnical subsidence and subsoil failure can
be minimized by establishing a stable transition region between the existing bed and the area to
be dredged. Therefore, to avoid threat to the stability of existing structures, dredging will be
carried out only at least 500 m away from the existing breakwater. The potential impacts
associated with geotechnical stability are considered low.
c. Siltation in the Existing Harbor
47. During construction, the placement of dredged material in the reclamation sites will not
release much sediment. Given the relatively low rates of sediment release and the tendency for
sediment to settle close to the release point, it is considered that dredging will have negligible
effect on sedimentation in the existing harbor.
48. During operation, sedimentation is not expected to be significant. The modeling study
indicates that annual rate of deposition in the outer channel is only 24 mm, so dredging the
channel during construction to 20.5 m depth would mean that no maintenance dredging would
be required for about 12 years. With the proposed breakwater, a calm area is expected to be
established north of the proposed harbor and in the front and/or mouth of the Kelani River. The
greatest change will occur during the SW monsoon, when the harbor layout will provide a wave
shadow, causing a high percentage of the suspended sediment brought by the Kelani River to
settle in the river mouth.
10
d. Sediment Transport
49. Sediment transport from the south of the project site will be interrupted by the southern
arm of the breakwater, which will act as a groyne. The sediment transport capacity across the
proposed entrance channel and the harbor has been estimated using the sediment transport
model. The study indicates that there is little sediment transport in the area. Almost all sediment
that reaches the harbor SW breakwater does not bypass the structure and only small quantity is
available for transport by littoral drift to north of the harbor. Thus, overall impacts from sand and
sediment transport are considered low.
e. Change in the Current Pattern
50. The hydrodynamic modeling indicates that the flow from the Kelani River does not affect
the harbor’s hydrodynamics. Maximum tidal currents of 10–15 cm/sec can be seen west of the
harbor, with only a marginal change in the current pattern with the introduction of the
breakwater. The current south of the entrance channel and west of the breakwater increases as
a result of the new development. Increases can be seen in all tide and wind conditions, with
maximum increase in the northwest (NW) wind conditions followed by NE wind conditions. In all
cases, the wind-driven currents dominate the tidal current, and as a result the directional
changes of the tidal currents are not visible when the wind is strong. However, overall changes
in the current pattern are low.
f. Change in Adjacent Beaches
51. Impact on the Adjacent Beach South of the Project Area. Construction of a 2 km
southern main breakwater arm will place a long groyne at the northern end of the southern
coast. The seaward end of the breakwater will be about 18 m deep. A significant proportion of
sediment will be captured by this groyne and will be accumulated against the breakwater. Based
on the modeling, the accumulation of sand on the southern side of the project is expected to
move the coastline toward the sea from 80 to 200 m by year 10 after construction. Accumulated
material could be left in place if regarded as environmentally positive and removed if not.
Removing the material to counter erosion would be economically advantageous. Therefore,
sediment accumulation needs to be monitored continuously. Accumulation on the beach
between Galle Face Hotel and the project area will improve the recreational facilities. However,
the outfalls in the beach area will need to be extended, especially the outfall from Beira Lake.
52. Impact on the Adjacent Beach North of the Project Area. The CSH will create a wave
shadow, causing wave conditions to become calmer. A modeling study shows that this situation
will result in accretion of materials at the mouth of the Kelani River and the adjacent area to the
south. A maximum of 75–150 m of accretion is projected to occur after 25 years. This build-up
area is not expected to increase with flooding, considering that the flood plain of the Kelani
River is so wide. However, long-term monitoring is needed to confirm the prediction as well as
to ensure that mitigation measures, if needed, can be provided. The reduction in the sediment
transport northward will increase erosion on the coast further north. After 25 years, maximum
erosion of 50–100 m is predicted over about 10 km, assuming no protective structures are
maintained. If erosion is prevented by structures, then sediment deficit will extend further north.
53. North of the mouth of the Kelani River, the coast is protected by groynes and revetments
over about 1 km, and recession exists behind the Pegasus reef. Thereafter, the coast runs
almost straight to Pamunugama and after a slight bend it extends to Pitipana in a convex
manner. This has a severely eroding coastline. At present, the coast protection scheme is
11
considered adequate. Assuming that the works are properly designed, no additional coastal
protection work to the north of the port is necessary.
54. The impacts on the adjacent beaches in the north and south of the project area were
predicted without reliable data, and therefore all results are highly uncertain. Overall, the
impacts on adjacent beaches are considered to be moderate but a continuous and long-term
monitoring program is needed.
g. Wave Disturbance
55. Both wave climate (outside the project area) and wave penetration (within the project
area and port) were modeled, and the results indicate that required levels of calmness will be
achieved. Therefore, the potential of environmental impacts from wave disturbance is
considered low. Consequently, the potential for spills, collisions, and other accidents is also low.
However, SLPA has an emergency program in place to deal with these accidents.
h. Impact on Water Quality
56. During construction, the principal source of potential water-quality impacts is from
dredging marine sediments and associated reclamation activities. The model has shown that
fine sediments released during dredging settle quickly. The area potentially impacted by
dredging operations is expected to be limited to within 1 or 2 km of the dredging site, and
nearshore and beach areas are not expected to be affected. Existing conditions include
periodic, widespread, and high-turbidity events caused by sediment from the Kelani River. High
levels of suspended solids in the water column are not uncommon and localized increases in
turbidity are not expected to significantly impact on water quality. Still, best-practice controls on
dredging operations have been recommended to minimize the risk of uncontrolled release of
sediment-laden waters.
57. Existing sediments are not heavily contaminated and the potential contaminant release
during dredging is not significant because of the engineering design of the reclamation methods.
The sediment will be physically contained and, therefore, the seawater surrounding the project
area is not expected to be contaminated. Because the reclamation will be offshore, there is no
mechanism to contaminate the groundwater in the adjacent land.
58. During operation, the potential water-quality impacts associated with changes to the
hydrodynamics of the area following construction of new facilities under the project are limited
(based on the water quality modeled to examine the fate of new discharges associated with
present operation of the harbor and the effects of the new harbor on existing discharges). The
effects of existing pollution sources (e.g., the Mutwal outfall, Kelani River River, Beira Lake, and
urban discharges to the existing port) are anticipated to remain the same, with the exception of
the Mutwal outfall. Modeling indicates that the facilities constructed by the project will affect the
dispersion of faecal coliforms. To the north, water quality is predicted to remain largely
unchanged. To the south, the coastline is predicted to be pushed into a more offshore position
in the area of the GFG, and, therefore, the project is predicted unlikely to alter water quality
south of the port near Gale Face.
59. The project will include onsite management and treatment of wastewater generated
during operations from each port facility. Wastewater from uncontrolled discharges such as
general site activities can be controlled because it will go to the storm-drainage system, which
will have an oil trap before disposal through any outfall. The oil spill contingency plan will be
12
developed to manage unforeseen spillage and other events. Sri Lanka is a signatory to the
International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL Convention);
therefore, discharges from vessels will be controlled under this international regulation.
i. Noise and Air Quality
60. The potential for noise and air-quality impacts during construction is limited. The design
approach to deliver quarried materials for the breakwater by marine barge will significantly
reduce potential vehicular-related emissions.
61. Transhipment activities (e.g., loading and unloading) are not considered likely to cause a
significant impact. The predominant source of noise and air emissions during operation will be
from vehicular traffic on roads within and outside the port. Predicted levels of traffic associated
with the project are not likely to be significant because of the transhipment (rather than import
and export) nature of port operations.
B. Impacts on the Marine Ecology and Fisheries
62. The dredging and reclamation will cause permanent loss of benthic habitat over about
340 ha of seabed for the reclamation, and temporary loss of 820 ha for the approach channels
and basin, the benthic habitat support mollusks, crustaceans, and fishes. Fish and shrimp
spawn on the sandy sea bottom. The ecological value of benthic in these areas is not significant
and similar habitats exist elsewhere. There are also two small isolated areas of limestone cap
rock at the proposed entrance channel, but they do not provide a habitat for sponges, corals,
and echinoderms. There are no protected habitats close to the project area, and therefore
dredging and reclamation are not anticipated to have significant impacts on identified habitat in
the study area. The dredging will also increase turbidity, but the spread of suspended solids is
anticipated to be limited. It is necessary to note that periodic widespread high turbidity is
common in the project area because of sediments from the Kelani River. The impacts related to
a high level of suspended solids would not significantly reduce the primary productivity of these
study areas. However, the project is expected to benefit the ecology and fisheries because the
breakwater will provide about 5 km of new submarine habitat, including hard substrate for
sessile organisms, as well as shelter for benthic animals.
63. Other potential activities that will affect marine habitats are blasting and disposing of
dredged materials. The probability that the project will involve blasting is low, because the need
to deepen the channels has been designed to avoid disturbance of the limestone cap rock. .
However, in case there are boulders that cannot be removed by dredger, then blasting may be
required. The amount of explosives will be carefully calculated to minimize vibration that could
affect the marine environment. Similarly, there is little need to dispose of dredge materials
because they can be used for reclamation. However, if dredged materials do need to be
disposed of, they will likely be dumped off Onagala reef, which was recently colonized, is of low
ecological value, and is periodically subject to high turbidity because of heavily silted inflow from
the Kelani River. Therefore, the environmental impact will be insignificant.
64. The ecological impact of dredging and reclamation on fauna and flora is expected to be
insignificant. Species in the study area are of low diversity and abundance and there are no
significant coral colonies. Most of the reefs (Onagala, Kelaniganga, Kalapugala, Vatiya, and
Palagala) are more than 1 km from the project area. The only endemic species found in the
marine environment of study area is Pomacentrus proteus, but it is not rare and can be found in
many areas of the western coastal waters.
13
65. Indirect impacts on ecology and fisheries associated with increased suspended solids
are limited. Recorded species and habitats in the area are of low ecological value. Sediments
are predicted to settle quickly and most likely would be carried for no more than 2 km from the
project area. The high background levels of suspended and deposited sediments arising from
the Kelani River have resulted in a low density and low diversity of colonization by corals.
66. Once construction is complete, the project will not materially alter the hydrodynamics or
resulting sedimentation patterns in the areas of ecological or fishery interest. The potential
pollution associated with uncontrolled discharges during operation can be managed through
good practice. The project will be constructed entirely within the existing “no-fishing” security
zone so fishing catch will not be affected. Operational impacts associated with increased port-
related vessel movements are not anticipated as all vessel movements are within the offshore
exclusion zone.
C. Impacts on the Socioeconomic Environment
67. Jobs and related benefits are expected to increase. Jobs during construction are
projected to total 1,950, including 300 for construction of the breakwater and 550 for the staged
construction of each of the three terminals. Local skilled workers are expected to be hired.
68. During the operational phase, a total of 3,870 permanent jobs are estimated to be
created after the breakwater is complete and as the three terminals are commissioned. The
terminals will each employ 1,040 people, or 3,120 in total. Another 750 people are expected to
be employed in ancillary operating facilities, including 220 in a marine operations center, 200 in
the SLPA offices, 300 in customs-related work, and 30 in electrical and water supply services.
Although some existing port employees are expected to be distributed or transferred to these
new facilities, the additional jobs are expected to be significant.
69. More jobs will arise from quarrying and associated works, and so will benefits from
increased vessel traffic and other related initiatives outside the scope of the immediate project,
such as the development of a free trade zone. The direct and indirect benefits of these
opportunities are subject to further investigation.
70. Land Use and Local Communities. The proposals accord with existing land-use plans
for Colombo City. The works in Colombo will not require any use of existing land, so people or
businesses need not be relocated.
71. The project will be visible from the passive recreation area of the GFG, south of the site.
The project will change the seaward view (in the northern direction) from the GFG. During
construction, barges and construction activities will be visible offshore. Following construction,
the project will be particularly visible at night when operations are lit. The change in the
landscape to the north of the GFG is likely to be significant. Still, it is in keeping with the nature
of the site as a port activity zone, and the movement of commercial vessels in the waters off
Colombo is expected.
72. Road Traffic. The potential for heavy road traffic in Colombo during construction has
been significantly reduced as rock will be transported by barge, and marine sand (dredged
during the digging of navigation channels) rather than land-based sources of fill material will be
used in the reclamation. Construction-related road transport might not be needed at all.
However, these vehicles are unlikely to add significantly to traffic.
14
73. Future levels of road traffic have been analyzed through predictive modeling, with and
without the project. The traffic situation in Colombo is constrained and is predicted to remain the
same as baseline traffic levels continue to grow. Measures will be needed to alleviate
congestion, even without the project. The traffic impact analysis (TIA) has identified key roads
and junctions around the port, which will require upgrading. These include Srimath Ramanadan
Mw. and George R. De Silva Mw. SLPA’s long-term plans to relocate break-bulk cargo to Galle,
and liquid and dry bulk cargo to Hambantota will somewhat lessen road traffic. Geometric
improvement will be required for the Srimath Ramanathan and George R. de Silva junction to
improve traffic flow. No private land is required as any additional land can be acquired by
moving back the SLPA boundary. The Sirimavo Bandaranaike and Port Access Road junction
will require automatic signal timing adjustment to improve traffic flow. However, the transport
network potentially constrains Colombo’s long-term development, and the natural growth of
domestic cargo at the Port of Colombo will aggravate traffic congestion.
74. Cultural Heritage. The project will not directly affect buildings of heritage interest in
Colombo City and will likely have indirect benefits. The project will also allow realignment of the
port boundary wall such that existing key structures of cultural heritage interest within the port
boundary (including the Harbour Master’s Building and Battenburg Battery) will be outside the
port.
75. The removal of the security zone coupled with the realignment of the port boundary wall
will make these structures more accessible to the public. These structures are proposed to be
conserved and developed as part of a heritage area to promote Colombo’s nautical history.
Within the port, one undesignated building of interest will be dismantled so the access road can
be built. Structures of architectural interest will be conserved and space has been allocated
within the proposed heritage area to reconstruct this building if deemed appropriate by the
Department of Archaeology.
76. Geophysical surveys and dive surveys have not identified any structures of underwater
cultural heritage interest in the study area. One known site of underwater cultural heritage
interest (“The Drunken Sailor”) lies south of the project area. A “watching brief” will be carried
out as part of the dredging operations to ensure that there are no hitherto unfound items of
underwater heritage interest. No significant impacts upon cultural heritage are anticipated.
VI. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN
A. Project Implementation
77. The project’s environmental performance will be managed by implementing the EMP.
Therefore, before construction, the EMP will be updated. During construction, contractors will
use the updated EMP to implement the recommended mitigation measures and to achieve
environmental performance standards.
78. The EMP’s effectiveness will be ensured through a monitoring program. Monitoring is
expected to be overseen by an environmental monitoring committee (EMC) chaired by the CCD.
The EMC membership will be determined by the CCD, but will include the proponent,
contractor, and other key stakeholders. The EMC will meet regularly to review the monitoring. In
case of an unforeseen or unexpected impact, the EMC will take remedial actions to mitigate it or
to solve problems arising from it. The EMC will develop a mechanism to manage, investigate,
15
respond, and act upon any issues raised by the public during construction. The EMC will
oversee compliance monitoring and impact monitoring.
79. The SLPA will establish within it sections for environmental and coastal engineering to
ensure that all environmental and social concerns will be addressed and handled in a timely
manner. The sections’ duties and responsibilities are described in Appendix 4. A project
implementation unit (PIU) will be established.
80. Funding will be adequate to develop the sections’ capacity to address and handle
environmental and social concerns after the project is fully operational and no longer funded by
ADB.
B. Compliance Monitoring
81. Compliance monitoring includes third-party verification that the EMP including mitigation
measures proposed in the contracts, will be carried out effectively. An environmental specialist
from the environmental engineering section will routinely monitor the project with support from
the EMC. The monitoring results will be reported back to the EMC and SLPA through the PIU
for follow-up actions, if needed.
C. Monitoring Environmental Impacts
82. The environmental impacts will be monitored to determine the effectiveness of the
mitigation measures proposed for construction and operation and to validate and confirm the
assumptions made in the EIA. Monitoring will be done by an independent party. The details of
location, methodology, frequency, and monitoring duration will be determined by the EMC.
83. During construction, the following will be monitored: (i) water quality during dredging, (ii)
air quality at the site boundary, (iii) noise at the site boundary, (iv) vibration at the SLPA
Maritime Museum and Harbour Master’s Building, and (v) presence of underwater artifacts of
cultural heritage during dredging.
84. After the construction works are complete, the following will be monitored: (i) sediment
accumulation in the CSH harbor basin, (ii) water quality in the CSH basin and existing Port of
Colombo, (iii) coastal morphology to the north and south of the CSH, and (iv) stability of the
breakwaters.
VII. ECONOMIC ASSESSMENT
A. Economic Justification for the Project
85. On the basis of cargo traffic projections, the existing Port of Colombo is expected to
reach capacity by around 2009. Existing ports in the region have expansion proposals, and new
ports are planned. To capitalize on the projected increase in the container market, Colombo
must expand its port capacity.
86. Assuming the project is implemented on time, its economic internal rate of return will be
about 21%.
87. Should the project not proceed, secondary negative economic impacts have been
predicted, such as the loss of container traffic revenue. The main consequences for the
16
economy would be the loss of frequent, fast, and direct shipping services used by importers and
exporters. Without the project, Sri Lanka, especially Port of Colombo would almost certainly lose
its transhipment traffic, and direct calls from trunk-line routes would also decrease, as local
traffic would not be enough to attract direct calls. Eventually, Colombo would become a “fed
port”, served by a combination of feeder ships and multi-port services with long transit times as
a consequence. The effects on current and future exports have been predicted to be
significantly positive. In 2002, textiles accounted for 52% of exports, a substantial proportion of
these products being classified as fast-moving consumer goods with time-critical delivery. Any
reduction in port efficiency could significantly harm these economic sectors.
B. Environmental Cost and Mitigation Requirements
88. The project is not expected to generate significant irreversible environmental impacts.
The project has been designed to minimize impacts upon the environment and obviate the need
for specific mitigation of impacts arising from the project. However, mitigation costs and costs
for implementing environmental management, including monitoring costs, have been included in
the overall project budget.
89. Cost estimates for the project’s financial and economic viability allotted SLRs500 million
to cover implementing the environmental management plan, including monitoring. Most of the
mitigation costs are included in the construction contracts, and the environmental permit
imposes no measures with a substantial cost implication. The environmental costs are assessed
at SLRs179 million. Funding has been allocated for mitigation measures that do not form part of
the (i) construction costs (Appendix 2), (ii) environmental monitoring costs (Appendix 3),
(iii) enhancing environmental improvement activities such as improvement of sewage pipeline
(Appendix 2), and (iv) strengthening the capacity of the environmental engineering and the
coastal engineering units of SLPA, as well as for environmental emergency costs to provide
remedial mitigation measures for unforeseen environmental impacts related to the project.
VIII. PUBLIC CONSULTATIONS
90. Consultations with stakeholders, including affected people, are required under the EIA
procedures for Sri Lanka as well as by ADB. At project preparation, a series of meetings were
held with key Government representatives, including Coast Conservation Department, Central
Environment Authority, the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau, and the Marine Pollution
Prevention Authority to agree on assessment methods and to establish likely public concerns. A
presentation on the EIA process and investigations was held in December 2004 for CCD and
the EIA steering committee to guide the scope of the EIA study.
91. As part of the program of baseline studies and throughout the design and EIA process,
local fishers and representatives of the tea and garment industries were interviewed.
Government bodies, including the Urban Development Authority, the Colombo Municipal
Council, and the Board of Investments were consulted. The Ceylon Association of Ship Agents,
representing operational stakeholders, has been consulted regularly. The consultations are
listed in Appendix 5.
92. The EIA report was formally submitted to the Government for approval in April 2005
through CCD in compliance with the Coast Conservation Act 57 of 1981. The notification to the
public that the EIA report was available for review was announced on 18 October 2005, and the
public was given 30 days to comment on it. Based on the EIA report, the permit for the project
was granted on 12 December 2005. A public hearing was not held because the public had no
17
significant inputs. However, CCD held a discussion with all stakeholders to review the EIA
report before issuing an “environmental clearance” of the project.
IX. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
93. The EIA examined the potential environmental impacts of construction and operation of
the project. The EIA met the requirements of the Government and, in principle, has complied
with ADB’s Environmental Assessment Requirements (2003).
94. The approach of the EIA and engineering process has been to “mitigate through design”,
whereby potential environmental impacts have been reduced as far as practicable through an
iterative design process. This has decreased the potential for impacts to occur as well as the
need to apply mitigation measures.
95. Potential impacts of construction and operation have been assessed, including in inland
areas as well as coastal regions to the north and south of the site, which are of socioeconomic
and recreational importance. Potential impacts on the operational activities of the existing Port
of Colombo were also considered.
96. An environmental management plan, including an environmental monitoring plan, has

been prepared to minimize the project’s potential adverse environmental impacts and to
enhance its positive impacts. Adequate funding has been allocated to implement these plans.
97. The EIA emphasizes establishing a sustainable institutional mechanism to ensure that
monitoring programs recognize public concerns. The recommended functions of the
environmental engineering section and coastal engineering section (of SLPA) under the PIU, as
well as the EMC take cognizance of the importance of stakeholder participation in impact and
compliance monitoring.
98. The EIA study considers (i) the environment of the project area, (ii) the significance and
contribution of the project to national and regional development in ports and shipping, (iii) the
potential environmental impacts (including their magnitude and significance) caused by the
proposed development, and (iv) the ability to eliminate and/or minimize negative impacts
through “mitigation by design” and mitigatory measures.
99. No major insurmountable environmental impacts are associated with the construction
and operation of the proposed CSH, assuming that the recommended mitigation measures are
implemented. Therefore, environmental monitoring should be carried out to ensure that the EMP
is implemented and any unforeseen impacts are managed appropriately.
18 Appendix 1
LIST OF REFERENCES
1. Ministry of Ports and Aviation. 2005. Technical Report on Marine Ecology and Fisheries.
Colombo.
2. Ministry of Ports and Aviation. 2005. Social Analysis Report. Colombo.
3. Ministry of Ports and Aviation. 2005. Poverty Impact Study. Colombo,
4. Lanka Hydraulic Institute. 2005. Numerical Modelling Coastal Evolution. Colombo.
5. Lanka Hydraulic Institute. 2005. Numerical Modelling Sediment Transport. Colombo.
6. Transport Engineering Division, University of Moratuwa. 2005. Traffic Impact
Assessment. Colombo.
7. University of Moratuwa. 2004. Baseline Report on Sediment Quality in the Port of
Colombo and its Surrounding Areas. Colombo.
8. National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency. 2004. Under Water
Ecological Survey. Colombo.
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN
Project Potential Impacts Proposed Mitigation Timing Location Implementing Supervisor/ Cost
Activities Monitoring
Dredging and Impact on the hydrodynamic Mitigation measures have During Offshore Designer: CCD Included in
reclamation, environment been incorporated into the construction development limitations construction
including detailed design by area defined in Engineer’s cost
breakwater Physical disturbance of the proposing the following: construction representative,
construction seabed. This impact is drawings SLPA, and
permanent and involves 340 ha The dredging will be EMC
for reclamation and 820 ha for controlled and limited to Contractor:
the approach channel. It will the area required for the implementing
produce 24.3 million m3 of navigation channels. contract
dredged materials that will be conditions
used to meet demand for initial No blasting. The rock
reclamation materials of about head is below the
23.6 million m3. anticipated dredged level.
No offshore disposal of
dredged materials. These
will be used for and
contained within the
reclamation.
Increased turbidity. The dispersal Adopting good dredging During On-board Designer: Engineer’s Included in bill
dredging sediment model (April practices by selecting the construction dredging measures representative, rates for
2005) shows that fine materials right equipment (trailing equipment included in SLPA, and dredging
settle quickly. Therefore, the suction hopper dredger construction EMC
repeat cycle will have no [TSDH]) and the right contract
cumulative impact. The expected dredging, loading, and specification
impact by dredging materials will placement methods
be limited to 1–2 km of the Contractor:
dredged site. Specify controls within implementing
construction documents contract
There are no sensitive receptors that require the contractor conditions
within that zone, and background to monitor the background
turbidity levels from river level from the Kelani River
discharge are high. and to limit increases in
turbidity to 30% above
Appendix 2
background
19
20
Blanket coverage of the seabed Adopting good dredging During Limited Designer: Engineer’s Included in bill
may occur, but it will be limited to practices by selecting the construction areas measures representative, rates for
the working areas (see the right equipment (TSHD), adjacent to included in SLPA, and dredging
Appendix 2
dispersal dredging sediment and selecting the right working construction EMC
model, April 2005). dredging, loading, and areas contract
placement methods specification
Contractor:
implementing
contract
conditions
Geotechnical stability. The Establish a stable During Adjacent to Designer: limits Engineer’s Included in
impacts will possibly (i) cause transition region between construction existing of dredging representative, design cost
subsidence of the adjacent areas the existing bed and the structures defined in SLPA, and
caused by undermining, area to be dredged construction EMC
(ii) cause subsoil failure because drawings
of removal of surface soil, (iii) Dredging will be carried
alter local soil characteristics out about 500 m from the Contractor:
because of continuous dredging, existing southern implementing
(iv) change the local flow pattern breakwater. contract
associated with scouring or conditions
siltation in the dredging and Increase in depth adjacent
neighboring areas, and (v) to existing structures is
potentially influence the limited to 1 m at the harbor
foundation of existing structure. entrance.
Siltation in the harbor during Adopting good dredging During Offshore Designer: Engineer’s Included in bill
construction will be insignificant practices by selecting the construction development measures representative, rates for
because of the low rates of right equipment (TSHD), area included in SLPA, and dredging
sediment release and the and selecting the right construction EMC
tendency of sediment to settle dredging, loading, and contract
quickly at the release point. placement methods specification
Contractor:
implementing
contract
conditions
The construction of the CSH will Extend the outfalls After Area to UDA CCD and EMC Included in
result in accretion of material to construction south of the 2020
the south of the CSH 80–200 m CSH development
adjacent to the south arm of the plan
breakwater. A few outfalls may
become blocked. UDA 2020 plan
proposes reclamation of this
area.
Change in the current patterns.
The hydrodynamic modeling No mitigation, but After Area SLPA to make EMC See Appendix
study shows that no significant comprehensive monitoring construction between the periodic 3
increase in current is predicted in is required in the area to CSH and the environmental
the proposed approach channels the north (in conjunction One year of mouth of the measurements
for all tide and wind conditions with monitoring of other two river
modeled. hydrodynamic affects) monsoon
seasons
Reduction in current in the area
between the CSH and the Kelani
River
The construction of the CSH will Comprehensive After Mouth of the SLPA EMC
result in accretion of material at monitoring is required. construction river
the mouth of the Kelani River and Seasonal surveys of river
adjacent area to the south. mouth Annual
However, any increase in
frequency of flooding is unlikely
as the river mouth will be cleared
of any obstruction when the river
is in full flow after rain.
Reducing sediment transport Maintaining the existing After Coastline to CCD EMC No capital cost
northward will increase erosion coast protection and construction north of the as flexible
on the coast further north. After comprehensive monitoring CSH hybrid coast
25 years, a theoretical maximum is required. protection
erosion of 50–100 m is predicted works already
over about 10 km. planned under
Coastal
Erosion
Management
Project
monitoring cost
Wave disturbance in the harbor A wave disruption Detail CSH Design SLPA None
could cause (i) hazards to vessel modeling study was done design stage consultant
Appendix 2
maneuvering, (ii) disruption to and recommendations
loading and unloading, and (iii) have been incorporated
damage to vessel and moorings. into the detail design to
minimize wave
disturbance.
21
22
Impact on water quality by Adopting good dredging During Offshore Consultant: EMC, SLPA, Included in
construction practices: construction construction preparing consultant, and design fee
• Directing the flow lines areas specification for Engineer’s
Appendix 2
Release of suspended solids into of the suction stream to the works. representative
water (see increased turbidity) the point of excavation
• Restricting overboard Contractor: Included in
Release of sediment bound pumping of lean adhering to cost of
pollutants (ammonia and heavy mixture specified dredging
metal) is not expected to be • Ensuring that the requirements
significant since their hopper is filled to a
concentration is low. safe level to prevent
spills
Potential depletion of oxygen. • Discharging dredged
Since sediment is mostly sandy materials through
and non-organic materials, the bottom doors or by split
impacts will be localized because hull
of rapid sediment settling. • Providing suitable
barriers to reduce
Reduced light penetration dispersion
• Ensuring that the seals
on the hopper’s
discharge pipes do not
leak
Increase noise and vibration • Specify that the noise During Offshore Consultant: EMC, SLPA, Included in
caused by the following: of rock delivery by sea construction construction preparing consultant, and design fee
is below 75 dB (A) areas specification for Engineer’s
• Delivery of construction during the day and 50 the works representative
materials dB (A) at night.
• Dredging • Only well-maintained Contractor: Included in
• Pilling for quay walls and regularly serviced adhering to construction
• Site formation as part of plants should be specified cost
reclamation and breakwater operated. requirements
construction • Machines and plants
• Construction of buildings and that are used
roads intermittently should be
shut down between
work periods or should
be throttled down to a
minimum.
• Silencers or mufflers
should be used in
construction equipment
and maintained
properly.
• Mobile and temporary
noise barriers should
be made available
onsite.
The use of explosives is

not permitted. However, if
localized blasting is
required, it will be 3 km
offshore.
• Stockpiles of dusty
materials should be
covered.
• Spray water to keep
surfaces wet.
• Any excavated material
should be backfilled or
reinstated as soon as
possible.
Impact on air quality by • Haul roads should be During Offshore Consultant: EMC, SLPA, Included in
construction will be limited to kept clear of dusty construction construction preparing consultant, and design fee
the CSH offshore site. materials or sprayed areas specification for Engineer’s
with water frequently. the works representative
• Loading and unloading
bulk cements should Contractor: Included in
be in a closed and adhering to construction
vented system. specified cost
• Any vehicle carrying requirements
dusty materials should
be covered
• Vehicles carrying dusty
materials should be
washed before leaving
the site (washing
facilities should be
Appendix 2
available).
Operate quarry strictly in

Impacts of quarry sites. During Quarry site Contractor GSMB and Included in
accordance with the terms
Extraction, handling, and construction and CEA construction
of the permit
transportation of rock may transport cost
Compensate RDA and
generate significant impacts. route from
local authorities for any
quarry to
23
damage to public roads
coastal load
and bridges
out point
24
A quarry with sufficient resources
remote from habitation and with
an existing environmental permit
Appendix 2
has been nominated. If the
contractor wishes to use another
quarry, it will have to obtain the
necessary permits.
Impacts on ecological and

a
fisheries resources
Permanent loss of benthic habitat Ensure that the dredging During Offshore Contractor SLPA, CCD, Included in
under the footprint of and reclamation as well as construction development and EMC construction
reclamation, and temporary loss construction of the areas cost
in dredged channel area. breakwater do not extend
However, species using this beyond the designated
habitat are common in Sri Lanka. areas.
Permanent loss of limestone cap

rock at the entrance to the CSH. Adopt good practices in
This area does not provide dredging.
habitat for sponges, corals, and
echinodermis.
Impacts of increased turbidity are

limited to the development site.
This area is subjected to periodic
high turbidity caused by sediment
from the Kelani River.
The study area has low diversity Monitoring is required. During Offshore SLPA EMC See Appendix
of but abundant common construction reef areas 3
species. No protected habitat
and no rare or endangered
species are found in the study
area, which is not a fishing zone.
An important reef is over 1 km
from the project area, so
increased turbidity and sediment
are not expected to reach this
area.
Relocation The existing subsea oil pipeline Connection to be made During Pipeline Specialist SLPA, CPC, Included in
and is at risk from damage by vessels when SPB shuts down for construction connections contractor CCD, EMC, Cost of Works
deepening of entering the port as the cover is annual maintenance and MPPA
existing inadequate. The rerouting of the Pipeline to be purged of oil
subsea oil pipeline requires two break-ins before break-in
pipeline (one under water) with potential
oil spills.
Construction Impacts are similar to those Concession bid During Offshore Consultant SLPA and Included in
of terminals discussed under dredging, documents and agreement construction development preparing terms EMC developer’s
reclamation, breakwater, and are to include performance areas cost
due to specification requirements Concessionaire/
for construction work contractor
Reclamation of terminal area under BOT adhering to
(loss of habitat) agreement
Construction of quay wall (noise/

emissions/traffic)
Construction of paved areas and

buildings (noise/emissions/
traffic)
General construction activities

(water quality/air quality / traffic)
Potential impact on cultural Carefully dismantle During CSH SLPA EMC Included in
heritage building T3 and save construction entrance development
original features cost
A number of buildings are to be
demolished. None are listed, but
one (Warehouse T3) dates from
the 19th century. It has been
substantially modified but retains
some original features.
Detailed offshore surveys have Have a watching brief During Dredged SLPA EMC Included in
Appendix 2
identified no historical wrecks. during dredging for construction areas development
archaeological finds cost
25
26
Operation
Additional sea traffic generated Channels and navigation Operations Offshore Consultant during SLPA, MPPA, Included in
by the CSH could increase the aids designed to permit navigational design and EMC design fee
Appendix 2
risk of vessel collision and oil safe transit waters
discharge. SLPA Covered by
SLPA
Pilotage provided for all navigation /
vessel simulation and risk pilotage
assessment satisfactorily charges
completed during design
Establish an oil spill SLPA and SLRs5.0

contingency plan MPPA million
concessionaire
Potential oil spills and other The operator will be Operation Terminal Concessionaire/ SLPA and Paid by
hazardous goods, fire, and required to install a storm- areas terminal operator EMC operator
disasters water drainage system
which would include
The CSH is established to handle oil/water interceptors prior
containers that are generally to runoff discharge to the
non-hazardous. sea
Oil storage tanks would be

bunded
Emergency response
system for hazardous
goods and oil leaks will
operate
Additional sewage will overload Each terminal will be Operation Terminal Concessionaire/ SLPA and Paid by
the city sewage system. served by a package-type areas terminal operator EMC operator
sewerage treatment plant
(PSTP)
Treated sewage will be SLRs65 million

pumped into the city
network. 1.3 km of city
sewers will be upgraded.
Residents connected to
the sewer line will benefit.
Potential increase of solid waste Each terminal will be Operation Terminal Concessionaire/ SLPA Paid by
required to have a solid areas terminal operator EMC Operator
waste management plan.
No hazardous wastes are
expected, but if any,
handling, storage, and
disposal have to follow
existing regulations.
Potential noise impacts No specific measures are Operation Terminal Concessionaire/ EMC None
proposed. All noisy terminal operator
Terminal operation is offshore equipment is assumed to
and there will be no noise impact be maintained in good
in areas on the port boundary. working order.
Additional port traffic raises noise No specific measures Operation Port roads SLPA EMC None
levels by 2 dB(A) above existing
levels. Remain below guide level
of 72 dB(A).
Increase in container truck Improve George R de Operation City roads CMC EMC SLRs75 million
movement on roads adjoining the Silva/Srimath
port is limited to domestic trade Ramanathan junction
(30% of total).
Additional impact above natural Apply a traffic Operation City roads CMC EMC Included in
growth is small. management system to planned
affected roads and upgrades
junctions
Operation City roads Customs, SLPA, EMC No direct cost
Improve clearance of operators
containers. Spread traffic
over 24 hours
Potential light pollution Install directional lights Operation Terminal Concessionaire/ SLPA and Included in
with flare guards to area operator EMC development
Terminals require bright lighting, minimize upward spills cost
Appendix 2
which could be intrusive.
Potential visual impact Extensive planting Operation Harbor SLPA SLPA Included in
adjacent to the CSH entrance EMC development
The CSH will be visible from entrance road cost
Galle Face (amenity area).
27
28
Siltation in the existing harbor None, as modeling Operation Existing SLPA annual EMC Already
during operation showed that rate of harbor survey of harbor included in
siltation similar to that area SLPA annual
Appendix 2
Rates are low and maintenance existing. budget
dredging predictions suggest
time interval of 6 or 7 years.
CCD = Coast Conservation Department, CSH = Colombo South Harbour, CPC = Ceylon Petroleum Corporation, EMC = environmental monitoring committee,
3
GSMB = Geological Survey and Mines Bureau, m = cubic meter, MPPA = Marine Pollution Prevention Agency, SLPA = Sri Lanka Port Authority, UDA = Urban
Development Authority.
a
Although blasting and offsite dumping are not anticipated, impacts on ecology have addressed these potential impacts for completeness of the report. If blasting
and offsite dumping of dredged materials are proved necessary, a supplementary study has to be prepared in consultation with CCD.
Source: Ministry of Ports and Aviation. 2005. Colombo Port Efficiency and Expansion Project: Environmental Impact Assessment. Colombo.
ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PLAN
No. Parameter To Be Monitoring Frequency of Monitoring Party to Undertake Party Supervising Party Who Has to
Monitored Location Monitoring Costs Monitoring Work Monitoring Work Receive the
(SLRs million) Report
1 Air quality Site boundary Biannual for 5 0.2 SLPA EMC CCD
years
2 Vibration monitoring Maritime Museum One day every 1.8 SLPA EMC CCD
during construction and Harbour quarter during
Master’s Office construction
3 Noise Site boundary One day every 0.9 SLPA EMC CCD
quarter during
construction
4 Watching brief for Offshore dredging As required during 1.2 Archaeological EMC CCD
underwater heritage and reclamation dredging Department
during dredging areas
5 Sedimentation of the CSH Annual for 5 years 3.0 SLPA EMC CCD
CSH basin
6 Water quality around Harbor areas and Biannual for 5 12.5 SLPA EMC CCD
CSH and existing north and/or south years
harbor of the CSH
7 Changes in coastal Coastline to the Annual (after SW 9.0 SLPA EMC CCD
morphology north and south of monsoon for 10
the project area years)
8 Sedimentation at Mouth of the river Annual for 10 1.0 SLPA EMC CCD
mouth of the Kelani years
River
9 Current Approach channel Twice in SW 2.0 SLPA EMC CCD

measurements and near the monsoon and
mouth of the twice in NE
Appendix 3
Kelani River monsoon after
construction
10 Ecology and fish Onagala reef Annual during 2.4 SLPA EMC CCD
habitats construction
Total SLRs34.0 million
29
CCD = Coast Conservation Department, CSH = Colombo South Harbor, EMC = environmental monitoring committee, SLPA = Sri Lanka Port Authority,
Source: Ministry of Ports and Aviation. 2005. Colombo Port Efficiency and Expansion Project: Environmental Impact Assessment. Colombo.
30 Appendix 4
ADDITIONAL PERSONNEL TO BE ATTACHED TO THE PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION UNIT

FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN
A. Environmental Engineer and Staff
1. Duties and Responsibilities
(i) Monitoring, supervision (with National Aquatic Resources Research and

Development Agency [NARA] and Coastal Conservation Department [CCD]), and
reporting of environmental impacts due to dredging and reclamation activities in
new development area and in the vicinity.
(ii) Monitoring (with Central Environmental Authority [CEA]) and reporting of water and
sediment quality in the work area and its surrounding.
(iii) Monitoring (with CEA) and reporting of noise, vibration, and air quality in the
development area and its surroundings.
(iv) Monitoring and reporting impacts of rock quarrying and rock transportation (with
the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau and CEA).
(v) Monitoring and reporting impact on ecology and fisher’s resources with the
Fisheries Department, NARA and CEA.
(vi) Operation and management of existing environmental laboratory in Sri Lanka Ports
Authority.
B. Coastal Engineer and Staff
2. Duties and Responsibilities
(i) Monitoring and reporting of environmental impacts caused by change in current

and wave patterns in the region (hydrodynamic conditions).
(ii) Monitoring and reporting shoreline changes, accretion, and erosion caused by
construction. Monitoring should be done in coordination with Coastal Conservation
Department.
3. Note
1. The environmental and coastal engineer should directly report to the project director
and/or deputy project director regularly and whenever necessary along with actions to be taken to
prevent adverse impacts such as any remedial measures/mitigation, etc. The project
director/deputy project director should take prompt action on such notice/report received from the
environmental/coastal Engineer by instructing the client/consultant/contractor.
4. Capacity Building Required
2. Provide additional equipment/facilities required for the existing environmental laboratory at

Sri Lanka Ports Authority and training for the technicians currently working in the laboratory.
Appendix 5 31
LIST OF PUBLIC CONSULTATIONS
Date Third Party Matters Discussed
September 2003 Representatives from garment Logistics and shipping

and tea industries requirements
19–24 January 2004 BOI and potential investors in Potential free zone, IPDs, etc.
port-related industries
May–July 2004 Small business adjacent to port Potential benefit and cascade from
land increased port activity
May–July 2004 Fishing community at Modera Potential impact of CSH on fishing

(between the port and the Kelani grounds
River) Security area and navigation
accords
20–26 September 2004 Drivers of vehicles during traffic Origin–destination survey and
impact assessment survey. traffic congestion issues
November 2004 Cabinet Presentation and discussion on

business case for CSH
18–19 February 2005 Ministry of Ports and Aviation; Development of port policy and
SLPA; shipping and logistics need for CSH
industry representatives
11 August 2005 Scoping committee and leading Presentation on developments and

stakeholders, all potential environmental issues
including DFAR, UDA and CMC
22 August 2005 Scoping committee (including Container terminal and general

DFAR, UDA, and CMC) port operations
Visit to project site
22 October 2005 National seminar on Presentation on CSH and strategic

Sethusamudaram Canal and approach to EIA
impact on Sri Lankan ports
CSH = Colombo South Harbor, CMC = Colombo Municipal Council, DFAR = Department of Fisheries and
Aquatic Resources, EIA = environmental impact assessment, UDA = Urban Development Authority.
Source: Ministry of Ports and Aviation. 2005. Colombo Port Efficiency and Expansion Project: Environmental
Impact Assessment. Colombo.

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Environmental Assessment Report

Summary Environmental Impact Assessment

Sri Lanka: Proposed Colombo Port South Harbor

ADB – Asian Development Bank

WEIGHTS AND MEASURES

dB[A] – decibels [measured in audible human range]

In this report, “$” refers to US dollars.

II. PROJECT DESCRIPTION 1

III. DESCRIPTION OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS 3

IV. ALTERNATIVE ANALYSIS 7

A. Alternative Harbor Locations 7

V. ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT AND MITIGATION MEASURES 8

A. Impacts on the Physical Environment 8

VI. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 14

VII. ECONOMIC ASSESSMENT 15

VIII. PUBLIC CONSULTATIONS 16

IX. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS 17

Mullaittivu National Road

Vavuniya Boundaries are not necessarily authoritative.

WESTERN Ratnapura Wellawaya

80 o00'E Matara 81o30'E

II. PROJECT DESCRIPTION

7. The terminals will be developed on a build-operate-transfer (BOT) basis. The detailed

III. DESCRIPTION OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

6. Air, Noise, and Vibration

1. Marine Ecology and Fisheries

4. Recreation and Heritage

IV. ALTERNATIVE ANALYSIS

A. Alternative Harbor Locations

V. ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT AND MITIGATION MEASURES

A. Impacts on the Physical Environment

1. Environmental Impacts Caused by Supplying Rock

2. Environmental Impacts from Dredging and Reclamation

c. Siltation in the Existing Harbor

e. Change in the Current Pattern

f. Change in Adjacent Beaches

h. Impact on Water Quality

i. Noise and Air Quality

B. Impacts on the Marine Ecology and Fisheries

C. Impacts on the Socioeconomic Environment

VI. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

C. Monitoring Environmental Impacts

VII. ECONOMIC ASSESSMENT

A. Economic Justification for the Project

B. Environmental Cost and Mitigation Requirements

VIII. PUBLIC CONSULTATIONS

IX. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

96. An environmental management plan, including an environmental monitoring plan, has

The use of explosives is

Operate quarry strictly in

Impacts on ecological and

Permanent loss of limestone cap

Impacts of increased turbidity are

Construction of quay wall (noise/

Construction of paved areas and

General construction activities

Establish an oil spill SLPA and SLRs5.0

Oil storage tanks would be

Treated sewage will be SLRs65 million

9 Current Approach channel Twice in SW 2.0 SLPA EMC CCD

Total SLRs34.0 million

ADDITIONAL PERSONNEL TO BE ATTACHED TO THE PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION UNIT

A. Environmental Engineer and Staff