Environmental Assessment
Volume A-6
Introduction
Consultation
Biophysical
•
Depletion of Forest Resources: There was concern that proposed tree
planting and forest restoration projects after the pipeline is buried, be
adequately studied and that reclamation meets stated conservation goals.
Given the biological importance of residual primary forests and the key
role of the Mantadia-Zahamena forest corridor in particular, there was
concern that primary forest not be affected. (NGO present at community
meeting).
•
Wetlands and Watershed: There was concern that the watershed of the
Torotorofotsy be evaluated with a view to protecting the marsh system
and developing a management plan.
•
Biodiversity and habitat: There was concern about loss of biodiversity,
as routing will pass through the Torotorofotsy and construction could
result in the destruction of primary forest. The private reserve of
Vohimana is of concern as is the Mantadia-Zahamena forest corridor,
both areas of focused conservation efforts. There was concern that
construction would disturb remnants of littoral coastal forest, if the route
via Brickaville was chosen.
•
Ecological Concerns: Given that ecological conditions of certain
portions of the Torotorofotsy Wetlands system along the dis-used
railway are already poor, there was concern that pipeline construction
and any associated road development would provide opportunity for an
invasion of undesirable plants.
Social
•
Livelihoods: Residents were concerned about measures to be put in
place for any required resettlement of houses and/or community
infrastructure and to be properly compensated for any damages and
losses of crops and livestock. Not only land owners, but also
sharecroppers on others’ land need to be adequately compensated. It
was also noted that compensation should be negotiated and paid before
any removal of houses or effects on crop and livestock. People are not
sure of their rights, increasing such concerns.
•
Employment: There is concern that the proponent make every effort to
employ young people and that recruitment strategies target specific
geographical areas.
•
Physical Security: For pipeline sections that remain above ground, the
issues of vandalism and damage to the pipeline was of concern along
with the suggestion that the pipeline be guarded by security personnel. It
is expected that any repairs to the pipeline or compensation for resulting
damage, due to, for example, mud flows after a break would be the
responsibility of the project.
Ambatovy Project
37
January 2006
