Background
The Renewable Energy for Resilient Agri-Food Systems (RERAS) project, funded by the Norwegian Embassy and implemented by UNDP across 11 local governments in Sudurpashchim, Karnali, and Bagmati provinces, focuses on enhancing agricultural productivity and food security through affordable energy solutions and modern technology for local farmers. As part of this initiative, UNDP plans to construct four lift-irrigation schemes in Jumla and one in Sindhuli, addressing the constraint of irrigation access to boost crop production and productivity. Before construction, a Social and Environmental Safeguard Assessment, aligned with UNDP’s policy, is required.
SWN was awarded to conduct social and environmental screening, propose appropriate mitigation measures and management plans for five lift-irrigation schemes.
Objective of the Assignment
The main objective of the assignment was to conduct environmental and social screening of lift-irrigation system located in Sindhuli and Jumla according to the UNDP Social Environment Safeguard (SES) policy.
The specific objectives were as follows:
- To provide technical support in conducting social and environmental screening of key activities.
- Identify and propose potential mitigation measures for possible risks if applicable and foreseen during screening process.
- Identify and propose Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) for the forseen risks during screening process.
Key Activities and Service Provided by SWN
SWN had undertaken the following activities:
- Identify potential social and environmental risks and their significance in the activities.
- Determine the risk category (Low, Moderate, Substantial, High) and the necessary targeted assessment (depending on risk category).
- Carry out field visits and consult with relevant stakeholders.
- Identify mitigation measures required for the targeted activities as necessary.
- Based on the risk categorization, recommend if management measures, targeted assessments, Environmental and Social Assessment (ESIA) and Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) are required.
- Assessment of 11 lodges, 2 school, and 1 community health center in Helambu region
- Assessment of 7 lodges, 2 community hall, and 1 community health center in Langtang region
- Status report and including general impression of assessed buildings.
- Analysis and recommenations for proper use and maintenance of sustainable technologies.
Outputs
Outputs of the project were as follows:
- Risk categorisation of the targeted activities determined based on social and environmental risks.
- Identification of mitigation measures where necessary
- Recommedation of management plans
