Yemen LNG Project Environmental and Social Impact …43683552-1903 REVISION 1 Date : 10 February 2006 Yemen LNG Company ltd Yemen LNG Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment

Report Reference N°766-AUR-06-0001 A

Yemen LNG Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment

Prepared for:

Yemen LNG Company Ltd 10 February 2006 REVISION 1

Prepared by:

Project N° 43683552-1903

43683552-1903

REVISION 1 Date : 10 February 2006

Yemen LNG Company ltd

Yemen LNG Project

Environmental and Social Impact Assessment

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CONTENTS

Section Page Number

SECTION 0. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

0.1. INTRODUCTION.................................................................................................... 0-1

0.2. HISTORY OF ESIA STUDIES ............................................................................... 0-1

0.3. PROJECT DESCRIPTION..................................................................................... 0-2

0.4. BASELINE CONDITIONS ...................................................................................... 0-2

0.5. ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES ........................................................................... 0-4

0.6. POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIO-ECONOMIC IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES..................................................................................... 0-5

0.7. ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM.............................. 0-16

SECTION1. INTRODUCTION AND METHODOLOGY

1.1. INTRODUCTION.............................................................................................. 1-1

1.1.1. General ............................................................................................................. 1-1

1.1.2. History of the ESIA studies .............................................................................. 1-1

1.1.3. ESIA guidelines and policies............................................................................ 1-2

1.2. METHODOLOGY OF THE ESIA ..................................................................... 1-2

1.2.1. Scope of the ESIA............................................................................................ 1-2

1.2.2. Identification of Potential Impacts .................................................................... 1-3

1.2.3. Mitigation Measures ......................................................................................... 1-4

1.2.4. Residual Impact and Compensatory Measures .............................................. 1-4

1.2.5. Impact Significance.......................................................................................... 1-4

1.2.6. Human Health and Safety Risks ...................................................................... 1-10

1.3. REPORT ORGANIZATION.............................................................................. 1-11

SECTION 2. POLICY, LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK

2.1. POLICY, LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK OF YEMEN............... 2-2

2.1.1. General Framework ............................................................................................... 2-2

2.1.2. Environmental Protection Council.......................................................................... 2-3

2.1.3. Environment Protection Authority (EPA) ............................................................... 2-4

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2.1.4. The Environmental Protection Law (EPL) No 26 of 1995 ..................................... 2-6

2.1.5. The Law n°11 for the Protection of the Marine Environment ................................ 2-9

2.1.6. Operational Discharge Controls............................................................................. 2-9

2.1.7. Emergency Preparedness and Response............................................................. 2-10

2.1.8. Other Laws related to the Environment ................................................................. 2-11

2.2. INTERNATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL CONVENTIONS ...................................... 2-12

2.3. ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL POLICIES FOLLOWED BY YLNG................. 2-14

2.4. ENVIRONMENTAL STANDARDS APPLICABLE TO THE PROJECT................. 2-15

SECTION 3. PROJECT DESCRIPTION

3.1. MAIN LINE – TRANSFER LINE....................................................................... 3-1

3.1.1. Project Overview .............................................................................................. 3-1

3.1.1.1. Main Line.......................................................................................................... 3-1

3.1.1.2. Transfer Line .................................................................................................... 3-2

3.1.1.3. KPU and CPU facilities .................................................................................... 3-2

3.1.1.4. Gas Composition.............................................................................................. 3-3

3.1.2. Construction, Installation and Commissioning ................................................ 3-3

3.1.2.1. Construction Activities ...................................................................................... 3-3

3.1.2.2. Commissioning Activities ................................................................................. 3-4

3.1.2.3. Construction Camp.......................................................................................... 3-5

3.1.2.4. Specific Construction Techniques ................................................................... 3-5

3.1.3. Pipelines Process Operations.......................................................................... 3-6

3.1.3.1. Maintenance..................................................................................................... 3-6

3.1.3.2. Control / Inspection .......................................................................................... 3-6

3.1.3.3. Logistics............................................................................................................ 3-6

3.1.4. Decommissioning............................................................................................. 3-6

3.2. BALHAF LNG PLANT ...................................................................................... 3-7

3.2.1. Project Overview .............................................................................................. 3-7

3.2.2. Construction, Installation and Commissioning ................................................ 3-8

3.2.2.1. LNG Process Unit and Utilities......................................................................... 3-8

3.2.2.2. Jetty and MOF Construction ............................................................................ 3-9

3.2.2.3. Construction Camp.......................................................................................... 3-10

3.2.3. Process Operations.......................................................................................... 3-11

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3.2.3.1. Flare systems................................................................................................... 3-12

3.2.3.2. Liquid Burners and Tank Vents........................................................................ 3-12

3.2.3.3. Water Intake and Water Systems.................................................................... 3-13

3.2.3.4. Sewer and Wastewater Collection Systems.................................................... 3-14

3.2.3.5. Wastewater Treatment Plant ........................................................................... 3-16

3.2.3.6. Utilities .............................................................................................................. 3-17

3.2.3.7. Logistics............................................................................................................ 3-18

3.2.3.8. Additional Facilities .......................................................................................... 3-18

3.2.4. Decommissioning............................................................................................. 3-19

3.2.5. Summary of Wastes and Emissions................................................................ 3-19

3.2.5.1. Atmospheric Emissions .................................................................................... 3-19

3.2.5.2. Liquid Emissions .............................................................................................. 3-23

3.2.5.3. Wastes.............................................................................................................. 3-24

3.2.5.4. Summary of Emissions and Waste.................................................................. 3-26

3.2.6. Indicative Schedule of the LNG Project........................................................... 3-26

SECTION 4. DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT

4.1. CLIMATE, METEOROLOGY AND AIR QUALITY................................................. 4-1

4.1.1. General Climatological Conditions......................................................................... 4-1

4.1.2. Rainfall.................................................................................................................... 4-5

4.1.3. Temperature........................................................................................................... 4-5

4.1.4. Relative Humidity ................................................................................................... 4-5

4.1.5. Wind Speed and Direction ..................................................................................... 4-5

4.1.6. Ambient Air Quality ................................................................................................ 4-6

4.2. OCEANOGRAPHY ................................................................................................ 4-8

4.2.1. Waves..................................................................................................................... 4-8

4.2.2. Currents.................................................................................................................. 4-8

4.2.3. Tides....................................................................................................................... 4-9

4.2.4. Bathymetry ............................................................................................................. 4-9

4.2.5. Sea Water Quality .................................................................................................. 4-9

4.3. GEOLOGY AND SOILS......................................................................................... 4-11

4.3.1. Geology .................................................................................................................. 4-11

4.3.2. Soils ........................................................................................................................ 4-11

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4.3.3. Natural Geologic Hazards ...................................................................................... 4-12

4.3.3.1.Seismicity and Faults ............................................................................................. 4-12

4.3.3.2.Slope Stability and Rock Falls ............................................................................... 4-12

4.3.3.3.Soil Erosion ............................................................................................................ 4-13

4.4. WATER RESOURCES.......................................................................................... 4-14

4.4.1. Surface Water ........................................................................................................ 4-14

4.4.2. Groundwater........................................................................................................... 4-17

4.5. BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT.............................................................................. 4-20

4.5.1. Flora........................................................................................................................ 4-20

4.5.2. Fauna ..................................................................................................................... 4-24

4.5.3. Sensitive Species ................................................................................................... 4-26

4.5.4. Marine habitats at the Balhaf site .......................................................................... 4-29

4.5.4.1. Sandy bottoms ...................................................................................................... 4-29

4.5.4.2. Coral reefs ............................................................................................................. 4-30

4.5.4.3. Fish Community .................................................................................................... 4-32

4.5.4.4. Environmental Sensitivity of marine habitats ....................................................... 4-33

4.6. NOISE .................................................................................................................... 4-35

4.6.1. Noise Levels ........................................................................................................... 4-35

4.6.2. Sensitive receptors................................................................................................. 4-35

4.7. SOCIO-ECONOMIC BASELINE............................................................................ 4-37

4.7.1. Surveys and Methodology ..................................................................................... 4-37

4.7.2. Areas of Concern and Project Affected People ..................................................... 4-39

4.7.3. Yemen National Context ........................................................................................ 4-41

4.7.3.1. Political structure and administration.................................................................... 4-42

4.7.3.2. Economy and industry .......................................................................................... 4-46

4.7.3.3. Social welfare and civil society ............................................................................. 4-47

4.7.4. Demographics and Population............................................................................... 4-48

4.7.4.1. Population and migration ...................................................................................... 4-48

4.7.4.2. Population in the Project Area .............................................................................. 4-48

4.7.4.3. Settlements along the pipeline route .................................................................... 4-49

4.7.4.4. Settlements Around the Plant Area ...................................................................... 4-53

4.7.4.5. Ethnicity and tribes................................................................................................ 4-53

4.7.4.6. Vulnerable and Marginalised Groups ................................................................... 4-55

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4.7.4.7. Socio-cultural practices......................................................................................... 4-56

4.7.4.8. Religion ................................................................................................................. 4-58

4.7.4.9. Gender distribution................................................................................................ 4-58

4.7.4.10. Age distribution ................................................................................................... 4-59

4.7.4.11. Public health........................................................................................................ 4-60

4.7.5. Land Tenure and Use ............................................................................................ 4-64

4.7.5.1. Land ownership..................................................................................................... 4-64

4.7.5.2. Land use................................................................................................................ 4-65

4.7.5.3. Other land issues .................................................................................................. 4-66

4.7.6. Economic Activities ................................................................................................ 4-69

4.7.6.1. Agriculture ............................................................................................................. 4-69

4.7.6.2. Grazing and animal husbandry............................................................................. 4-70

4.7.6.3. Bee keeping .......................................................................................................... 4-71

4.7.6.4. Shipping and Use of Port / Road network ............................................................ 4-71

4.7.6.5. Fisheries and Fishing ............................................................................................ 4-73

4.7.6.6. Other Economic Activities ..................................................................................... 4-80

4.7.7. Coastal Zone Management / Marine Protected Areas .......................................... 4-83

4.7.7.1. Background ........................................................................................................... 4-83

4.7.7.2. Marine Survey History in the Gulf of Aden ........................................................... 4-84

4.7.7.3. Current Zoning Status ........................................................................................... 4-84

4.7.7.4. The future of the CZMP ........................................................................................ 4-84

4.7.8. Livelihoods.............................................................................................................. 4-85

4.7.8.1. Employment status ............................................................................................... 4-85

4.7.8.2. Sources of income................................................................................................ 4-87

4.7.8.3. Income and expenditure ....................................................................................... 4-87

4.7.8.4. Skill levels and previous construction experience................................................ 4-88

4.7.9. Infrastructure, Resources and Services ................................................................ 4-89

4.7.9.1. Water supply ......................................................................................................... 4-89

4.7.9.2. Electricity ............................................................................................................... 4-90

4.7.9.3. Roads .................................................................................................................... 4-91

4.7.9.4. Telecommunications ............................................................................................. 4-92

4.7.9.5. Education .............................................................................................................. 4-92

4.7.9.6. Health services...................................................................................................... 4-93

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4.7.10. Development needs and priorities ......................................................................... 4-94

4.7.11. Information sources................................................................................................ 4-95

4.7.11.1. Media for receiving information .......................................................................... 4-95

4.7.11.2. NGOs Activities and related knowledge and attitudes ....................................... 4-96

4.8. VISUAL BASELINE CONDITIONS ........................................................................ 4-99

4.8.1. Scenic Quality ........................................................................................................ 4-99

4.8.2. Visual Sensitivity .................................................................................................... 4-99

4.9. ARCHAEOLOGY.................................................................................................... 4-100

4.9.1. Background ............................................................................................................ 4-100

4.9.2. Pipeline Route ........................................................................................................ 4-101

4.9.3. Balhaf site............................................................................................................... 4-102

4.9.3.1. Bronze Age Structures.......................................................................................... 4-102

4.9.3.2. Modern Structures ................................................................................................ 4-102

4.10. SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE AREAS ................................ 4-106

4.10.1. Main Line – Transfer Line ...................................................................................... 4-106

4.10.2. Balhaf site............................................................................................................... 4-106

SECTION 5. ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES

5.1. PIPELINES: ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES..... 5-1

5.1.1. Soil, Water and Groundwater Resources .............................................................. 5-1

5.1.1.1. Soil.......................................................................................................................... 5-1

5.1.1.2. Surface Water and groundwater ............................................................................ 5-7

5.1.2. Biological Resources........................................................................................... 5-13

5.1.3. Air Quality............................................................................................................ 5-16

5.1.3.1. Pipeline Construction .......................................................................................... 5-16

5.1.3.2. Pipeline Operation............................................................................................... 5-16

5.1.4. Ambient Noise Level ........................................................................................... 5-17

5.1.4.1. Pipeline Construction .......................................................................................... 5-17

5.1.4.2. Pipeline Operation............................................................................................... 5-18

5.2. BALHAF LNG PLANT: ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES ............................................................................................................................. 5-20

5.2.1. Soil, Water and Groundwater Resources ........................................................... 5-20

5.2.1.1. Soil and surface water......................................................................................... 5-20

5.2.1.2. Groundwater........................................................................................................ 5-20

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5.2.2. Biological Resources........................................................................................... 5-25

5.2.2.1. Terrestrial Fauna and Flora ................................................................................ 5-25

5.2.2.2. Intertidal and marine ecosystems....................................................................... 5-26

5.2.3. Air Quality............................................................................................................ 5-36

5.2.3.1. LNG Plant Construction ...................................................................................... 5-36

5.2.3.2. LNG Plant Operation ........................................................................................... 5-36

5.2.4. Ambient Noise Level ........................................................................................... 5-39

5.2.4.1. LNG Plant Construction ...................................................................................... 5-39

5.2.4.2. LNG Plant Operation ........................................................................................... 5-40

5.3. PIPELINES AND BALHAF LNG PLANT: SOCIO-ECONOMIC RECEPTORS..... 5-42

5.3.1. Local Communities and Population Centres ...................................................... 5-43

5.3.2. Local Economy and Livelihoods ......................................................................... 5-45

5.3.2.1. Fishing ................................................................................................................. 5-45

5.3.2.2. Land (Ownership and Access)............................................................................ 5-47

5.3.2.3. Local employment ............................................................................................... 5-48

5.3.2.4. Yemeni Content of Workforce............................................................................. 5-48

5.3.2.5. Local procurement of goods and services.......................................................... 5-49

5.3.3. Infrastructure and services.................................................................................. 5-50

5.3.4. Tourism and Visual Resources........................................................................... 5-51

5.3.5. Archaeology and Cultural Heritage..................................................................... 5-52

5.3.5.1. Pipeline................................................................................................................ 5-52

5.3.5.2. Balhaf Site ........................................................................................................... 5-53

SECTION 6. ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES

6.1. INTRODUCTION...............................................................................................6-1

6.2. LOCATION OF THE LNG PLANT ....................................................................6-2

6.2.1. Alternative Locations Studied ...........................................................................6-2

6.2.2. LNG Plant Site Screening .................................................................................6-2

6.2.3. Optimisation of Marine Facility Layout..............................................................6-6

6.3. PIPELINE ROUTES..........................................................................................6-8

6.3.1. Alternative Routes Initially Considered .............................................................6-8

6.3.2. Comparisons of the Alternative Routes ............................................................6-8

6.3.3. Selection of the Preferred Route ......................................................................6-9

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6.3.4. Selection of Alternative Sections within the Preferred Route...........................6-9

6.4. DESIGN OPTIONS ...........................................................................................6-11

6.4.1. Pipeline..............................................................................................................6-11

6.4.2. LNG plant ..........................................................................................................6-11

SECTION 7.ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

7.1. KEY ELEMENTS.............................................................................................. 7-1

7.1.1. Objectives......................................................................................................... 7-1

7.1.2. Yemen LNG HSE Policy .................................................................................. 7-2

7.1.3. Relevant Laws and Regulations ...................................................................... 7-3

7.1.4. Environmental and Social Management Organization .................................... 7-3

7.2. MANAGEMENT OF THE ENVIRONMENT ..................................................... 7-5

7.2.1. Operational Control of Environmental Impacts................................................ 7-5

7.2.1.1. Waste Management Plan................................................................................. 7-5

7.2.1.2. Water conservation .......................................................................................... 7-10

7.2.1.3. Wastewater Management ................................................................................ 7-11

7.2.1.4. Hazardous Chemicals Management................................................................ 7-12

7.2.1.5. Noise management .......................................................................................... 7-13

7.2.1.6. Radiations Management. ................................................................................. 7-14

7.2.2. Emergency Response Plan ............................................................................. 7-14

7.2.2.1. Emergency Pipeline Repair System ................................................................ 7-15

7.2.2.2. Emergency Response Plans............................................................................ 7-15

7.2.3. Training Program.............................................................................................. 7-16

7.2.4. Preservation and restoration ............................................................................ 7-17

7.2.4.1. Preservation of Archaeological Sites ............................................................... 7-17

7.2.4.2. Biological Preservation..................................................................................... 7-17

7.2.4.3. Restoration after Decommissioning................................................................. 7-17

7.2.5. Monitoring......................................................................................................... 7-18

7.2.5.1. Monitoring Of Marine and Terrestrial Environment ......................................... 7-18

7.2.5.2. Air Quality Monitoring ....................................................................................... 7-18

7.2.5.3. Water Quality Monitoring.................................................................................. 7-18

7.2.5.4. Coral Reef Monitoring ...................................................................................... 7-18

7.2.5.5. Reclamation Monitoring ................................................................................... 7-19

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7.2.5.6. Monitoring of Emissions and Discharges ........................................................ 7-23

7.2.5.7. Air Emissions Monitoring.................................................................................. 7-23

7.2.5.8. Water Discharge Quality Monitoring................................................................ 7-23

7.2.6. Environmental Auditing .................................................................................... 7-28

7.2.7. Environment Management Review.................................................................. 7-29

7.2.8. Environment Management Reporting to Authorities ....................................... 7-29

7.3. SOCIO-ECONOMIC ACTIONS – PROJECT SELECTION AND MANAGEMENT .......................................................................................................................... 7-30

7.3.1. Introduction....................................................................................................... 7-30

7.3.1.1. Statement of YLNG’s Social Principles ........................................................... 7-30

7.3.1.2. Refugees and Immigrants Policy..................................................................... 7-32

7.3.2. Socio-Economic Management Plans (Summary of key issues) ..................... 7-32

7.3.2.1. Community Relations Management Plan ........................................................ 7-32

7.3.2.2. Construction Camp Management Plan............................................................ 7-33

7.3.2.3. Transport Management Plan ........................................................................... 7-33

7.3.2.4. Economic Loss Compensation Plan ................................................................ 7-34

7.3.2.5. Recruitment, Employment and Training Plan .................................................. 7-34

7.3.2.6. Suppliers and Contractors Policy..................................................................... 7-35

7.3.2.7. Community Infrastructure and Utilities Plan .................................................... 7-35

7.3.2.8. Tourism Management ...................................................................................... 7-36

7.3.3. Preliminary Community Investment Strategy .................................................. 7-36

7.3.4. Public Consultation and Disclosure Plan......................................................... 7-40

7.3.5. SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT RESOURCING.......................................... 7-53

SECTION 8. APPENDICES

8.1. LIST OF PREPARERS.................................................................................... 8-1

8.1.1. Preparers of the Recent Baseline Surveys (2001 -2005)................................ 8-1

8.1.2. Preparers of the Updated ESIA (2005-2006) .................................................. 8-1

8.2. GLOSSARY OF TERMS.................................................................................. 8-2

8.3. REFERENCES................................................................................................. 8-6

8.3.1. General ............................................................................................................. 8-6

8.3.2. Biology.............................................................................................................. 8-7

8.3.3. Water Discharge Modelling .............................................................................. 8-8

8.3.4. Noise ................................................................................................................ 8-8

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8.3.5. Air ..................................................................................................................... 8-10

8.3.6. Climatology, Meteorology, Air Quality.............................................................. 8-10

8.3.7. Marine Biology.................................................................................................. 8-11

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LIST OF FIGURES, TABLES AND APPENDICES

FIGURES

SECTION 1 - INTRODUCTION

After page n°.

Figure 1-1 YLNG Project Location Map 1-1

SECTION 3 – PROJECT DESCRIPTION

After page n°

Figure 3-1 Main Line Transfer Line Location Map 3-1

Figure 3-2 Main Line and Transfer Line Profiles 3-1

Figure 3-3 CPU and KPU Facilities in Marib 3-2

Figure 3-4 Pipeline Right-of-Way and Working Area 3-2

Figure 3-5 Main Line Construction Camps and stock piles locations 3-5

Figure 3-6 Balhaf LNG Plant and Camp Location Map 3-7

Figure 3-7 Aerial view of model of Balhaf LNG Plant 3-7

Figure 3-8 Jetty loading berths 3-8

Figure 3-9 Balhaf LNG Plant Overall Site Plot Plan 3-11

Figure 3-10 LNG Treatment Train Block Flow Diagram 3-11

Figure 3-11 Desalination Plant 3-13

Figure 3-12 LNG Plant Simplified Water Discharge Flow Diagram 3-14

Figure 3-13 Main and Transfer Lines – Project Schedule Bar Chart 3-26

SECTION 4 – DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT

After page n°

Figure 4-1 YLNG Project Rainfall and Temperature 4-1

Figure 4-2 Balhaf wind roses and current models 4-6

Figure 4-3 Balhaf bathymetry 4-9

Figure 4-4 YLNG Project Geological Setting 4-11

Figure 4-5 Main Line KP 0 to KP 160 Geology and Water Resources

4-11

Figure 4-6 Main Line KP 160 to KP 320 and Balhaf Geology and Water Resources

4-17

Figure 4-7 Balhaf Marine Bottom Occupation 4-29

Figure 4-8 Settlements in Shabwah and Marib 4-41

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Figure 4-9 Yemen National Statistics 4-41

Figure 4-10 Gas Pipeline Location by Directorate Boundaries 4-43

Figure 4-11 Map showing Locations of Tribal Groups along Pipeline Route

4-55

Figure 4-12 Locations of mine affected communities in Yemen by age of conflict

4-66

Figure 4-13 Cultivated area in Surveyed Settlements 4-69

Figure 4-14 Location of Manufacturing and Extractive Industry 4-80

Figure 4-15 Settlements by Shops Number 4-82

Figure 4-16 Daily and weekly Markets 4-82

Figure 4-17 Proposed Marine Protected Area 4-84

Figure 4-18 Nearest Asphalted Roads 4-91

Figure 4-19 School Location 4-92

Figure 4-20 Secondary School Location 4-92

Figure 4-21 Health Facilities Location 4-93

Figure 4-22 Main Line KP 0 to KP 160 Archaeology 4-105

Figure 4-23 Main Line KP 160 to 320 Archaeology 4-105

Figure 4-24 Balhaf LNG site Archaeology 4-105

Figure 4-25 Main Line - Transfer Line Geology and Water Resources Sensitivity Map

4-106

Figure 4-26 Main Line - Transfer Line Flora Sensitivity Map 4-106

Figure 4-27 Main Line - Transfer Line Socio-economics Sensitivity Map

4-106

Figure 4-28 Main Line - Transfer Line Archaeology Sensitivity Map 4-106

Figure 4-29 Balhaf Marine Sensitivity Map 4-106

Figure 4-30 Balhaf Terrestrial Sensitivity Map 4-106

SECTION 5 – ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES

After page n°.

Figure 5.1 Plateau entrance initial route and alternative 5-2

Figure 5.2 Overview of plateau exit initial route and alternative 5-2

Figure 5.3 Small pond on the plateau at KP 178 and route alternative

5-7

Figure 5.4 Balhaf approach constraints and alternative route 5-7

Figure 5.5 Balhaf terrestrial sensitivity map 5-25

Figure 5.6 Balhaf marine sensitivity map 5-26

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Figure 5.7 Maximum temperature at the sea surface and 1 m above the seabed in the vicinity of the water outfall

5-27

Figure 5.8 Dredged materials disposal area and extent of deposition with thickness greater than 1 mm

5-29

Figure 5.9 Locations with coral along the coast and in the Gulf of Aden

5-30

SECTION 6 – ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES

After page n°

Figure 6-1 Map of Alternative LNG plant Sites and associated pipeline routes

6-1

Figure 6-2 Satellite Image of Alternative LNG plant Sites and associated pipeline routes

6-1

Figure 6-3 Alternative Locations of the Material Offloading Facilities 6-5

Figure 6-4 Potential Alternative Pipeline Routes for Balhaf Site 6-6

Figure 6-5 Main-Line Transfer Line Alternative Section Location Map 6-7

Figure 6-6 Main Line – Alternative for the plateau access 6-7

SECTION 7 – ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

After page n°

Figure 7-1 Conceptual Framework for YLNG Sustainable Development Activities

7-36

TABLES

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Table 0.1 Main Line – Transfer Line – Potential Impacts on Environmental Resources, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impact Significance during Construction, Operation and Decommissioning

Table 0.2 Balhaf LNG Plant and Camps – Potential Impacts on Environmental Resources, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impact Significance during Construction, Operation and Decommissioning

Table 0-3 Potential Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impact Significance on Socio-Economic Receptors during Construction, Operation and Decommissioning of the YLNG Project

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SECTION 1 - INTRODUCTION

Table 1-1: Ranking of severity on soil, surface water and groundwater

Table 1-2: Ranking of severity on biological resources

Table 1-3: Ranking of severity on socio-economic resources

Table 1-4: Ranking of severity on air quality

Table 1-5: Ranking of noise severity

SECTION 2 – POLICY, LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK

Table 2-1 Global Conventions Protecting the Environment

Table 2-2 Ambient Air Quality Standards Adopted for the YLNG Project

Table 2-3 Atmospheric Emission Requirements Adopted for the YLNG Project

Table 2-4 Concentrations Limits for the Point of Discharge into the Sea

Table 2-5 World Bank Criteria for Noise-Sensitive Land Uses

SECTION 3 – PROJECT DESCRIPTION

Table 3-1 Gas composition

Table 3-2 LNG plant feed gas composition

Table 3-3 Flare systems

Table 3-4 Water consumptions

Table 3-5 Sanitary treatment plant standards for discharge

Table 3-6 Consumptions during normal operations

Table 3-7 Consumptions during shutdowns

Table 3-8 Estimated GHG emissions

Table 3-9 Estimated GHG emissions intensities

Table 3-10 Wastewater flows

Table 3-11 LNG plant waste streams

Table 3-12 Summary of Emissions and Wastes


Table 4.1 Main Line - Transfer Line Average Monthly Value of Meteorological Variables

Table 4.2 Balhaf Meteorological Statistics (January '96 - February '97)

Table 4.3 Balhaf Rainfall Intensity Statistics (January '96 - February '97)

Table 4.4 Balhaf Air Quality (Baseline Survey, 1997)

Table 4.5 Tide levels at Balhaf

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Table 4.6 Seawater Quality

Table 4.7 Main Line - Transfer Line Maximum Probable Flood (MPF)

Table 4.8 Abstraction and Recharge of Aquifers

Table 4.9 List of Plants Observed During the 1997 Terrestrial Baseline Survey

Table 4.10 List of Animals Potentially Present in the Project Area

Table 4.11 Environmental sensitivity of marine habitats

Table 4.12 Project area showing pipeline length in each directorate

Table 4.13 Population Distribution in the Directorates and Communities

Table 4.14 Major Cities and their Population in Relevant Directorates

Table 4.15 Settlements along the Pipeline Route Villages within 5 km from Main Pipeline

Table 4.16 Main Tribes and Sub-tribes along the Pipeline Route

Table 4.17 Gender Distribution in Shabwa Governorate

Table 4.18 Projected Population by Age Distribution 2005

Table 4.19 Diseases reported in Shabwa Governate 2003

Table 4.20 Main Line – Transfer Line – Land Use within 1 km of row

Table 4.21 Cultivated Lands and Population Involved in Agricultural Activities within the Project Area

Table 4.22 Water Supply Sources of Irrigation

Table 4.23 Population Involved in Grazing and Animal Husbandry Activities

Table 4.24 Population Involved in Bee Keeping Activities within the 2001 socio-economic Study Surveyed Area

Table 4.25 Yemeni Fish and Invertebrate Production

Table 4.26 Number of artisanal fishermen by cooperative

Table 4.27 Population Involved in Handicrafts and Mining Activities Recorded within the 2001 Socio-economic Survey

Table 4.28 Population Involved in Trading Activities and Commercial Shops Recorded within the 2001 Socio-economic Survey

Table 4.29 Weekly Markets Recorded within the Surveyed Area

Table 4.30 Distribution of Economically Active Population by Activities (1994 census)

Table 4.31 Average Monthly Spending for an Individual in Riyals as % of all expenditures

Table 4.32 Types of Public Service problems faced in Surveyed Settlements

Table 4.33 Water Supply Sources Recorded within the 2001 Socio-economic Surveyed Area

Table 4.34 Electricity Services Recorded within the 2001 Socio-economic Surveyed Area

Table 4.35 Types of Roads Recorded within Surveyed Area

Table 4.36 Educational Data (1998/99 Educational Survey)

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Table 4.37 Health Facilities Location

Table 4.38 Archaeological Findings – Main Line – Transfer Line

Table 4.39 Archaeological Findings – Balhaf site

Table 4.40 Main Line - Transfer Line Environmental Baseline Description within 1 Km of Row

SECTION 5 – ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES

Table 5.1 Potential environmental impacts, mitigation measures and residual impact significance of pipelines on soil

Table 5.2 Potential environmental impacts, mitigation measures and residual impact significance of pipelines on surface water and groundwater

Table 5.3 Potential environmental impacts, mitigation measures and residual impact significance of pipelines on flora and fauna

Table 5.4 Potential environmental impacts, mitigation measures and residual impact significance of LNG Plant on soil, surface water and groundwater

Table 5.5 Localization of projected coastal rock berm works

Table 5.6 Potential environmental impacts, mitigation measures and residual impact significance of LNG Plant on intertidal and marine ecosystems

Table 5.7 Potential social impacts, mitigation measures and residual impact significance of pipeline on socio-economic receptors

Table 5.8 Potential social impacts, mitigation measures and residual impact significance of LNG Plant on socio-economic receptors

SECTION 6 – ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES

Table 6-1 Main Line - Transfer Line Environmental Baseline Description Within 1 Km Of Row Alternative Sections That Were Abandoned

SECTION 7 – ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

Table 7.1 Summary of Waste Storage, Treatment and Disposal Methods during LNG plant and pipeline construction and operation.

Table 7.2 Main Line Transfer Line Summary of Environment Monitoring During Construction and Operation

Table 7.3 LNG Plant and Camps Summary of Environment Monitoring during Construction and Operation

Table 7.4 Main Line Transfer Line Summary of Process Monitoring for Emissions and Discharges during Construction and Operation

Table 7.5 LNG Plant Summary of Process Monitoring for Emissions and Discharges during Operation

Table 7.6 Outline of Activities during the ESIA

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Table 7.7 Stakeholder Group Mapping by Issue

Table 7.8 Preliminary Timeline for Key YLNG Public Disclosure Events 2006

Table 7.9 Key Consultation / Disclosure Milestones in the Development of YLNG’s ESIA / PCDP / ESMP

Table 7.10 Key to PCDP Activities and Milestones Chart

Table 7.11 YLNG SD Resourcing

APPENDICES


Appendix 4.1 Distribution of settlements and population data along the pipeline route

Appendix 4.2 Maps of pipeline route

SECTION 5 - ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES

Appendix 5.1 Thermal discharge model

Appendix 5.2 Preliminary Impact Assessment of Upstream Facility (Marib CPU-KPU)

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CONTENTS

Section Page Number

0. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY............................................................................................0-1

0.1. INTRODUCTION....................................................................................................... 0-1

0.2. HISTORY OF ESIA STUDIES................................................................................... 0-1

0.3. PROJECT DESCRIPTION ........................................................................................ 0-2

0.4. BASELINE CONDITIONS ......................................................................................... 0-2

0.5. ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES ............................................................................... 0-4

0.6. POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIO-ECONOMIC IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES ................................................................................................. 0-5

0.7. ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM ................................. 0-16

TABLES

Table 0.1 Main Line – Transfer Line – Potential Impacts on Environmental Resources, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impact Significance during Construction, Operation and Decommissioning

Table 0.2 Balhaf LNG Plant and Camps – Potential Impacts on Environmental Resources, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impact Significance during Construction, Operation and Decommissioning

Table 0-3 Potential Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Residual Impact Significance on Socio-Economic Receptors during Construction, Operation and Decommissioning of the YLNG Project

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0. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

0.1. INTRODUCTION Yemen LNG Company Ltd. (YLNG) proposes to construct a natural gas pipeline and a LNG plant in Yemen. The project is known as the Yemen Liquefied Natural Gas (YLNG) Project. This Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) has been prepared to provide the Yemeni Authorities, the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) and the Lending Institutions with a full discussion of the significant environmental and socio-economic impacts of the YLNG Project and the mitigation measures that will be implemented to reduce these impacts.

This ESIA addresses the key environmental and social issues of the YLNG project that are required by the Yemeni regulation (EPL N°26 of 1995) and was prepared according to the guidelines of the World Bank operational policies on the Content of an Environmental Impact Assessment report (OP 4-01 – Annex B, January 1999). The objective of this ESIA is also to provide the lending institutions information on how the YLNG project that will be financed is developed in a manner that is environmentally and socially responsible and reflects sound management practices, as required by the Equator Principles. In addition YLNG is committed to comply with a number of Agency policies and guidelines and the World Bank Standard (General Environmental Guidelines – Pollution Prevention and Abatement Handbook – World Bank Group – July 1998) were adopted for the YLNG project.

0.2. HISTORY OF ESIA STUDIES In 1997, YLNG carried out baseline surveys (WCI 1997), along the pipeline route and at the Balhaf site. These studies comprised both onshore and coastal surveys, identifying soil and groundwater, fauna and flora and archaeology issues, socio-economic data and land uses in the project area. Following these surveys, YLNG conducted an EIA (WCI, 1997) for the pipeline and the LNG plant construction and operations.

In the years following this EIA, YLNG undertook several additional studies: a socio-economic baseline survey (June 2001) conducted by two team of scientists conducted by one French and one Yemeni scientist in Sana’a and several additional surveys and technical studies to further evaluate the baseline conditions and the mitigations measures. In the meantime, YLNG adapted the design to new capacity requirements and to changes or trends in Environmental Protection, in order to build the YLNG project with the best international environmental standards.

Lately in 2005, YLNG has undertaken several studies including a marine survey of the Balhaf area by Creocean, a complementary 3D model on thermal distribution by SOGREAH; a field validation terrestrial survey of the pipeline route; a complementary archaeological survey conducted in October 2005 by the Centre Français d’Archéologie et de Sciences Sociales de Sanaa (CFAS) and the Deutsches Archäologisches Institut (DAI) along the pipeline route and in the Balhaf area; complementary socio-economic baseline surveys; several water and sanitation surveys; an assessment of fisheries loss and potential compensation measures carried out by MacAlister Elliott and Partners (MEP).

The present ESIA is an updated study of the 1997 EIA, taking into account the current environmental regulation of Yemen, the revised design of the project and additional data collected by YLNG in 2005.

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0.3. PROJECT DESCRIPTION The YLNG project consists of a LNG plant at Balhaf fed by a pipeline, the Main Line, from the Kamil Processing Unit (KPU) and a Transfer Line between the Central Processing Unit (CPU) and KPU. The existing gas processing plants in the Marib area, which have been in operation for about 12 years, extract pentanes and heavier fractions for export, LPG for domestic consumption, and return the residue gas for re-injection into the oil fields. To ensure adequate LNG feed gas supply, the three existing cryogenic plants at CPU will be utilized with minor modifications, and one new additional cryogenic plant will be constructed.

The Balhaf LNG plant will comprise two processing trains of 3.45 Million Ton per annum (Mtpa) each, thus a design production capacity of 6.9 Mtpa and the finished product will be shipped out by sea in 135,000 to 205,000 m3 capacity LNG carriers.

The Main Line will consist of an approximately 325-kilometer long, 38-inch diameter natural gas pipeline. The initial design flow capacity is 1,280 MMSCFD.

The Transfer Line will consist of a 25-kilometer long, 30-inch diameter pipeline, which will be constructed parallel to other existing 12-inch and 6-inch diameter pipelines.

In addition, YLNG proposes to construct an additional natural gas pipeline, the Spur Line, which will transport gas from CPU to Ma’bar. The Spur Line ESIA will be carried out separately and will be designed and operated in compliance with World Bank standards.

The present ESIA summarises planned upgrade for Marib facilities (CPU-KPU) and provides a preliminary environmental assessment of the activities in an Appendix to Section 3. This preliminary assessment will be developed in the ESIA Revision 2.

0.4. BASELINE CONDITIONS The ESIA comprise a description of the environmental and socio-economic baseline conditions and the identification of environmentally sensitive areas.

Pipelines In summary, most of the pipeline route crosses uninhabited areas and no areas of environmental sensitivity have been identified in the desert along the Transfer Line and the Main Line until KP 55. The following areas of high environmental /socio-economic sensitivity were identified in the area of the selected route of the pipelines (Main Line and Transfer Line):

• Wadi Jirdan lower course (area of KP 124 - 132): human presence, potential for flooding and shallow productive aquifer, one large archaeological site called Darbas at KP 125 (pre-Islamic settlement and irrigation system);

• Access to the Plateau (area of KP 132 - 134): steep slopes with potential for rock instability and risk for land slides and soil erosion, visual resources and potential presence of one endangered plant species;

• Plateau (area of KP 134-160 and 185-195): human presence, isolated agricultural fields sustained by some rain water collection system, presence of some endemic plant species, numerous Bronze Age tumuli type tombs and cemeteries (area of KP 150 and between KP 175 and 195);

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• Exit of the Plateau (area of KP 201 - 205): steep slopes, risk of rock instability and soil erosion, two endangered species present on the cliffs, trees and a spring;

• Wadi Salmoon valley (area of KP 203 - 212): potential for flooding, human presence with high development in the last years, one house in the ROW (+/- 15 m), isolated cultivated fields, several interesting plant species including one endangered and five endemic;

• Coastal Plain lower section (area of KP 295 - 314): potential for flooding at Wadi Rafad, shallow groundwater, two endemic species present, Bronze Age tumuli type tombs in the vicinity of Balhaf, recent urban development.

Balhaf LNG plant Balhaf area, where the LNG plant will be constructed, has a large natural biological marine abundance (approximately 400 species recorded). This abundance was observed in all the biological areas (sediment fauna, coral reef fauna, and commercially valuable fish species).

Ancient artifacts have been identified in Balhaf. The archaeological sites include potential Neolithic age artifacts, old cemetery (late-Islamic). Recent past structures (c.1930’s) include North and South Towers, a Fort, a Customs House and a dozen of rudimentary shelters used temporary by the fishermen.

The area extending from Balhaf to Burum, qualified as an area of regional importance, was identified and proposed to become a Marine Protected Area (MPA) of Yemen. This MPA is now part of the proposed Zoning Plan for the Coastal Zone Management (CZM) area Bir Ali – Burum, Sector 1, which comprises several zone categories of protected status along a more than 50 km long coastal stretch and group of high aspect islands with extensive fringing coral reefs, rich fishing areas, seabird and, east of Bir Ali, marine turtle nesting sites and a salt water crater with fringing mangroves. Balhaf lies at the Westen edge of the proposed area and it has been classified by EPA as a “General Use Zone”.

Sea turtles were observed in the sea during the coastal diving survey conducted in September 2005, but the survey did not find evidence of turtle eggs on the shores of the Balhaf area which are rocky and thus inappropriate for nesting.

During the coastal survey conducted in September 2005, the coral reefs in the eastern side of Balhaf Cape were found affected by bleaching. The south of the cape was found densely colonized by porites with specific coral banks in shallow waters including rare species such as millipora. The presence of reef constructions of porites was confirmed in the western part of the Cape and further north.

Balhaf is located between the fishing areas of Al Ayn Bay to the west and Bir Ali to the east. These are large commercially valuable areas for local fishing industries in Yemen. During some seasons, this area is considered to be a prime fishing ground due to its high productivity and the high number of natural shelters. It should be noticed that in 2004 the fish production from Shabwah Governorate accounted for 3.9 % of the Total Yemeni production, according to the Ministry of Fish Wealth. Most of the Shabwah fish production comes from Bir Ali located 15km east of Balhaf. According to Ministry of Fish Wealth Bir Ali is 10 times larger than the three other main selling locations of Shabwah Governorate (Ein Bama’abad, Irqah and Al Hawrah) .The fishing activity in the Balhaf area is largely a summer activity

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(June to September) and the temporary shelters there are used by fishermen mostly during these months.

0.5. ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES Eight alternative locations for the LNG plant were initially screened by YLNG, which resulted in a short list of three sites. A more detailed evaluation of these short-listed sites was performed, and the Balhaf site was selected as the best technical option with minimal dredging and no breakwater required and was associated with the shortest pipe route which impacted least on populated areas. Balhaf thus offered the optimum environmental and socio-economic option when considering the plant location and pipeline route holistically.

Four alternative routes for the Main Line were evaluated by YLNG. The Plateau route is the preferred route. None of the alternative routes are considered to be environmentally superior to this preferred route. Within the preferred route, several alternative sections were also considered. These alternative sections were identified in an iterative process and preferred sections were selected based on engineering, economic, and environmental and social considerations.

Once the Balhaf site was selected for the LNG plant and terminal, YLNG undertook detailed oceanographic studies that allowed an optimum layout of the various marine facilities of the project - jetty, sea water intake and outfall, Materials Offloading Facility (MOF) - to be evaluated. Having looked at a number of options for the MOF (SOGREAH, 2005) the locations for the MOF south of the bay were found to offer environmental advantages. The adopted location requires small volume of dredging in coarser material, thus less prone to turbidity. Furthermore no maintenance dredging is needed. This location also optimizes the plant layout in terms of safety distances and ISPS security requirements. Amongst the two shortlisted alternatives studied, the selection was for the MOF location that presents a lower impact on the corals of area D (see Figure 4.7 in Section 4.0)

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0.6. POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIO-ECONOMIC IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES

The ESIA comprises an evaluation of the potential impacts on the environmental resources and socio-economic receptors, and a description of the adopted mitigation measures to reduce these potential impacts. The methodology, based on World Bank guidelines, and scoring scale of this impact evaluation is presented in Section 1.0. This evaluation was done for the facilities, during construction, operation and decommissioning activities. For the activities of these phases of the Project, the ESIA identifies the environmental aspects and socio-economic receptors that can be potentially impacted.

• The environmental resources (soil, water and groundwater resources, terrestrial and marine biological resources, air quality, and ambient noise level.

• Socio-economic receptors (population centres, local economy, infrastructure and services, archaeology and cultural heritage, tourism and visual resources)

Some residual impacts are expected to remain after mitigation measures; these are scored according to significance levels. The significance of the residual impact, whether positive or negative, in this ESIA has been determined in accordance with World Bank guidelines, other international guidelines and other relevant ESIAs that have been prepared for similar operations. The scale of residual impact significance comprises four categories: negligible, minor, moderate and major, depending on the severity of the residual impact and the quality of the impacted resource or natural habitat, according to Annex A of the WB Operational policy OP 4.04 November June 2001 – Revised August 2004 – “Natural Habitats”

A summary of the most significant conclusions is provided in Table 0-1 (Main Line and Transfer Line and camps) and Table 0-2 (LNG Plant and camps) for the environmental resources. Table 0-3 provides a summary of the impact assessment on socio-economic receptors.

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MAIN LINE - TRANSFER LINE IMPACTS ON ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES

The main potential impacts, mitigation measures and residual impacts on environmental resources resulting from the construction of the pipelines are:

• Soils: The main potential impact of the pipelines on soil is soil erosion due to the excavations on steep slopes (access and exit of the plateau) in order to construct the pipeline ROW and the access route onto and off the plateau for the construction vehicles. During operation, there is a potential for soil erosion due to the fact that the pipeline ROW may become a preferred run off pathway for rainwater. The pipeline route has been selected to avoid zones with the potential for soil erosion. Protection measures will consist of gabions on steep slopes and lined ditches on water run-off drainage and a regular visual inspection. The residual impact of the pipeline on soil is considered to be negligible;

• Surface Water: The Transfer Line and the majority of the Main Line will be laid in desert regions with little or no encountered surface water. In other parts of the route, the pipeline could have an impact on surface water during construction, through the disturbance of existing water collecting systems and reservoirs used by the local communities. Impacts are also possible during operation through scouring due to large floods in wadis. The pipeline route has been selected to avoid zones with surface water. Mitigation measures include design options for wadi crossing and strict adherence to the hazardous chemical management plan to reduce the likelihood of accidental spills. The residual impact of the pipelines on surface water resources is considered to be negligible.

• Groundwater resources: The potential impacts on groundwater sources include: depletion of the groundwater resources by temporary supply of water for construction activities and camp requirements; and potential contamination of groundwater due to accidental spills during construction and operation. The use of the deep Mukalla aquifer will be of a temporary nature and strictly controlled according to the country practices and regulations to avoid any depletion. Strict adherence to the hazardous chemical management plan will reduce the likelihood of accidental spills. The residual impact of the pipelines on groundwater resources is considered to be negligible.

• Biological resources: Most of the sensitive areas that were identified during the 1997 and 2005 baseline surveys are avoided by the final pipeline route. Most of the pipeline route is in desert regions and therefore there is little vegetation. However, it is expected that some limited vegetation will be cleared at the wadi crossings during pipeline construction and this may cause a disturbance to wildlife. During construction the Environmental Management Plans will be implemented to ensure that sensitive species are protected or relocated if possible considering the pipeline ROW layout. The residual impact of the pipelines on biological resources is considered to be minor.

Construction of the pipelines could also result in temporary or short-term adverse impacts to air quality and ambient noise levels. However the adopted mitigation measures will reduce the residual impact to a negligible scale.

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BALHAF LNG PLANT IMPACTS ON ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES

The main potential impacts, mitigation measures and residual impacts resulting from the construction and operation of the LNG plant and camps are:

• Soils and surface water: The soil is basalt rock, no volcanoes are affected by the plant layout and there is no surface water at the Balhaf site. The residual impact of the LNG plant on soil and surface water is considered to be negligible.

• Groundwater resources: There is no potable groundwater available at Balhaf, and the nearest groundwater source is from the deep aquifer located at the mountains about 100 km northwest. The water for the LNG plant and the camps will be obtained from the desalinization plant located in Balhaf, after a short period of pioneer camp that will use water supplied from tanker trucks. Therefore, the residual impact of the LNG plant on groundwater is considered to be negligible.

• Terrestrial biological resources: The LNG plant, camps and air strip are mainly located on bare soil or basalt rock. These areas have no natural vegetation cover. There is the potential for disturbance of one small area located at the east of the plant site, where a sensitive species Euphorbia riebeckii is present. During construction the Environmental Management Plans will be implemented to ensure that sensitive species are protected or relocated if possible considering the plant layout. The residual impact significance of the LNG plant on terrestrial fauna and flora is considered minor.

• Marine ecosystem: The marine ecosystems include the coral reefs, the marine life, sea water quality in the eastern and western parts of the rock cape. The main potential impacts on intertidal and marine ecosystems during construction activities include a small area of corals. During the coastline rock berm works, jetty, MOF and water intake and outfall construction mitigation measures are being taken to minimise the impacts. Other potential impacts include an increase of turbidity in sea water due to the dredging activities. Mitigation measures include construction methods that will minimize turbidity in the sea water and minimize direct impacts on the corals. Main measures include the use of silt curtains to avoid silt deposition on the corals and minimisation of dredging. The dredged material will be disposed of offshore in a specific deep location in water depths of 150 meters. The impact on sensitive coral populations on the western part of the Balhaf cape relative to the overall length of coast to Burum classifies the residual impact of construction on intertidal and marine ecosystems as moderate.

The main potential impacts on the intertidal and marine ecosystems during operation of the LNG plant and facilities include possible modifications in the water currents west of Balhaf due to the presence of the MOF and an increase in sea water temperature due to discharge of cooling water on the east side of the cape. The location, length and design of the water outfall for cooling water and other waste water discharges have been studied to ensure that there is a negligible impact on the coral reefs on the eastern part of the Balhaf cape due to the temperature of the discharge. Other mitigation measures include minimizing suspended solid content and chemicals in the water discharges and strict management of chemicals and fuel tanks in the MOF facilities. The residual impact of the LNG plant operation on the marine and intertidal ecosystems is considered negligible.

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Construction activities of the LNG plant could also result in temporary or short-term adverse impacts to air quality and ambient noise levels. However the adopted mitigation measures will reduce the residual impact to a negligible scale.

Operation of the LNG plant could have a potential impact on air quality from emission sources. However, modelling studies are being conducted to confirm that the atmospheric emissions during operations will not exceed the ambient air quality standards adopted for the project. The average Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emission intensity of 32.8 kt/Mboe (gross) is lower than the typical emission intensities of 40 kt/Mboe (net) for LNG plants.

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SOCIO-ECONOMIC RECEPTORS

The main potential impacts, mitigation measures and residual impacts on the socio-economic receptors resulting from the construction and operation of the pipelines and LNG plant and camps are:

• Local Communities and Population Centres: The area is mainly desert, with very low human populations, The pipeline route has been selected to avoid the majority of agricultural areas and the few existing villages are located away from the pipeline. Only one house has been found within the ROW (+/-15m from pipeline). These inhabitants will be resettled. A total of 18 additional houses (230 inhabitants) have been found in the restricted area (+/-200 m from pipeline) where the people will be allowed to stay but not built new house. Around Balhaf, there are fishing communities from villages on the bay and isolated dwellings and scattered populations. The plant site has been a restricted zone for this project since 1996 and there is no permanent population resident at the site. Any potential disturbance will be mitigated through a Community Relations Management Plan and a Construction Camp Management Plan. The residual impact of the YLNG project on local communities and population centres is considered to be negligible.

• Local Economy and Livelihoods: There will be impacts on local seasonal fishing activities, on the local goods, services and wages market, on the labour market and on potential future development of the area around Balhaf and the plant site for tourism and leisure activities. There will also be the need for some compensation for loss of access to land in some of areas of the pipeline and loss of access to fishing in Balhaf bay. An Economic Loss Compensation Plan is currently being developed in line with World Bank guideline (OP no. 4.12) on Resettlement. For the fishing activities, YLNG is currently working in relation with the communities to propose both short and long term compensatory measures for the benefit of all of the communities of Al Ayn Bay, including Gal’ah, the fishing community closest to Balhaf. The proposed measures would reduce the costs of fishing, increase the value of fish landed, offer opportunities for the private sector to invest in the area and offer additional employment in fisheries services. The proposal also incorporates longer term support for the Coastal Zone Management Process of the CZM Area to the east of Balhaf. After these mitigation and compensation measures are in place, the residual impact on fishing communities is expected to be minor.

• Land (Ownership and Access): As the pipeline route is predominantly located on desert land, the pipeline route will generally not disturb agricultural fields. Only two agricultural areas exist within the pipeline ROW which will be the exclusive use of YLNG. Owners of these cultivated areas will be compensated. In addition, there are five cultivated lands along the pipeline route within the restricted area (+/-200m from the pipeline). There may be some disturbances to access these lands during the pipeline construction and these land owners will be compensated. In order to mitigate potential impacts related to temporary loss of access to land by the project a Compensation Committee has been established by the Yemen Government. Because of its small scale residual impact on land access is considered to be negligible.

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• Local Employment - There is a high expectation for job opportunities from the Project, and providing jobs for Yemeni nationals, particularly local people from Shabwah and Marib Governorates is perceived as a key issue for the project. Potential employment opportunities will be maximised and the project relationship with the local community managed through the implementation of policies which will be elaborated in a Recruitment, Employment and Training Plan and Community Relations Management Plan. A preliminary assessment suggests employment impacts will be moderate (positive).

• Local Procurement of Goods and Services: The presence of an imported expatriate workforce and construction camp near Balhaf is anticipated to have positive impacts on the local economy by generating business for the local service industry. Once contractors have been formally appointed, YLNG will commission a specialist evaluation of the likely procurement impacts of the project and particularly the plant site construction camp, during construction, operation and decommissioning of the pipeline and plant. Residual impact on the local economy is considered to be minor positive.

• Infrastructures and Utilities: Project construction activities are likely to result in increased traffic load during working hours through movement of plant, pipe yards and machinery as well as transportation of workforce to and from construction site. Potential impacts to local infrastructure from project traffic and transport movements and net impact on water and energy supplies will be mitigated through a Community Infrastructure and utility Management Plan and a Transport Management Plan. Residual impact on local infrastructure is considered to be minor.

• Tourism: For the pipeline, the entry to the Plateau (KP 132 - KP 134) and the exit of the Plateau (KP 200 - KP 205) pass through very steep slopes and vertical cliffs of dolomitic limestone. This area has a significant value for its important visual and scenic resources. However, the pipeline route was designed to avoid direct visual impact. The coastal area east of Balhaf, to Bir Ali and Burum, has a high potential for tourism development for its beaches, extents volcanoes and corals. However, Balhaf site is only part of a longer stretch of coast with tourism potential. Furthermore YLNG is considering providing support for the Yemeni Coastal Zone Management Plan (CZMP) efforts towards sustainable tourism. Residual impact on tourism and visual impact is considered to be minor.

• Archaeology and Cultural Heritage: There is the potential of disturbance of isolated existing archaeological sites along the pipeline route and archaeological site at Balhaf. Two main archaeological sites of interest were identified during the Archaeological survey in the area of the pipeline: one Hadramitic settlement at KP 125 called Darbas with some archaeological irrigation channels and several Bronze Age tombs on the plateau. At Balhaf, there are a number of Bronze Age structures and six recent past buildings, which have been comprehensively studied and documented in detail by a team comprising Yemeni archaeologists and representatives of DAI/CFAS. As the project complies with World Bank guidelines on cultural heritage, it is intended that the sites along the pipeline will either be preserved by re-routing the pipeline or, if this is not possible, a full archaeological excavation and recording will be arranged to fully research and document these sites for posterity. In addition, an Archaeological Protection Plan is being prepared

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to detail the measures to be taken to protect or record archaeological /historical sites in general.

TABLE 0-1: MAIN LINE - TRANSFER LINE AND CAMPS POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS, MITIGATION MEASURES AND RESIDUAL

IMPACT SIGNIFICANCE DURING CONSTRUCTION, OPERATION AND DECOMMISSIONING

Resource Potential Impacts Main Mitigation Measures Residual Impact

Significance

Soils • Construction: Soil erosion due to construction along the cut slopes, potential soil contamination from accidental spills

• Operation: soil erosion on pipeline maintenance road and access roads

• Decommissioning: soil erosion

• Alternative route selection to reduce potential soil erosion, and reduced ROW width

• Pipe is buried and soil erosion controlled by gabions and lined ditches to protect run-off drainage

• Routine check and maintenance of protection equipment

• Waste and chemicals management plans

• Restoration of ROW and camps locations after construction and decommissioning.

Negligible

Surface water and groundwater

• Construction: modification of the normal run-off pathways, potential water contamination from accidental spills, groundwater resource depletion

• Operation: Risk of scour during high intensity flood in Wadis.

• Decommissioning: risk of scour in wadi beds

• Pipeline route selection to avoid coastal plain shallow wells

• Pipe is buried, pipe depth in Wadi crossing designed according to potential maximum scour depth and provide pipe anchors

• Minimize water uses from wells, when possible use of sea water for hydrotesting, and water recycling when possible (see water management plan)

• Sections from wadis will be removed at the end of the project life

Negligible

Biological • Construction: Potential loss of trees

• Operation: access to remote areas through the ROW may increase disturbance to flora and fauna

• Decommissioning: vegetation may not grow if top soil was removed

• The pipeline route was selected to avoid major planted areas in Wadis

• During construction sensitive species will be protected or relocated if necessary and possible

• After construction top soil and camps locations will be reinstated

Minor (constru-

ction)

Negligible (operation)

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TABLE 0-2 : BALHAF LNG PLANT AND CAMPS POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS, MITIGATION MEASURES AND RESIDUAL

IMPACT SIGNIFICANCE DURING CONSTRUCTION, OPERATION AND DECOMMISSIONING

Resource Potential Impact Mitigation Measures Residual Impact Significance

Soil, surface water and groundwater

• Construction: grading for road and plant may modify natural rock surface.Potential depletion of aquifer due to utilisation of fresh water for construction camp and tank testing

• Construction and Operation : potential environmental impacts from improper waste management

• Decommissioning : installations footprint, potentially contaminated soils

• Limit area of grading and re-use rock blocks for fill and MOF construction

• Limit use of water by alternative sources: seawater for tank hydrotesting, desalination plant

• Recycle wastewater for gardening purposes

• Develop and implement an adequate Waste Management Plan

• Provide on-site incinerator

• Provide controlled landfill within plant fence.

• Develop recycle or reuse of materials when feasible.

• Provisions for decommissioning and Restitution Plan prepared in due time

Negligible

Flora and Fauna

• Construction: Potential disturbance of Euphorbia riebeckii, a South Arabian endemic cited in Balhaf area.

• Construction and operation: potential disturbance of turtles

• During construction sensitive species are protected or relocated if possible considering the plant layout.

• The marine survey conducted in September 2005, confirmed the lack of evidence of turtle nesting in the Balhaf plant area.

Minor

Intertidal and marine ecosystems

• Construction: shore protection berms, MOF construction and dredging will increase sea water turbidity and affect coral reef and other marine organisms over a length of 900 m

• Coral affected by shore protection berms limited in length compared to the overall coast length to Burum.

• Dredging material will be disposed offshore in water depth of 150 m where there are no corals and where the seabed is homogeneous and free of irregularities (Creocean marine

Moderate during

construction

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Resource Potential Impact Mitigation Measures Residual Impact Significance

• Operation: increase in sea water temperature because of cooling water discharge may produce changes in hydrodynamic conditions and affect coral reef.; modification of currents due to presence MOF.

survey, September 2005).

• Construction methods will minimize turbidity generated and minimize direct impact to coral

• Discharge of cooling water by a deep outfall instead of direct discharge at the coast and temperature increase limited to less than 1° C, which is considered not to cause damage to corals

• The design of the MOF has been optimised to significantly reduce the footprint on corals between areas D and E, in addition to which free circulation of currents will be possible thus encouraging fish biodiversity (SOGREAH study, 2005).

Negligible during

operation

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TABLE 0-3 POTENTIAL IMPACTS, MITIGATION MEASURES AND RESIDUAL IMPACT

SIGNIFICANCE ON SOCIO-ECONOMIC RECEPTORS DURING CONSTRUCTION, OPERATION AND DECOMMISSIONING

Receptor Potential Impacts Main Mitigation Measures Residual Impact

Significance

Local Communities and Population Centres

• Construction of pipeline and LNG plant: noise and disturbance from project traffic and construction activities

• Construction camp: socio-cultural tensions, health and safety issues including communicable diseases.

• Operation: disturbance of agricultural land during maintenance activities

• The pipeline was routed to avoid populated areas

• Development of a Community Relations Management Plan and PCDP

• The two construction camps are located more than 5km from villages.

• Construction Camp Mana-gement Plan (including: workforce code of conduct)

• Transport Management Plan,

Negligible

Local Economy and Livelihoods

• A) Loss of livelihoods: displacement of economic activity; loss of access to land and sea by local fishing communities.

• B) Economic impact on local market/economy: employment; local procurement of goods and services.

• Community Relations Management Plan

• Compensation Policy for Economic Loss

• Compensation Committee (Land)

• Compensation package for the fishing activities

• Construction camps have a positive impact on local economy.

A) Minor/ negligible

B) Minor (positive)

Infrastructure and Services

• Construction: condition of road network, local water resources and energy infrastructure.

• Building of new access roads

• Material Offloading Facility for the transportation of heavy plant and materials straight to the plant site

• Building of water desalination plant

Minor (positive)

Tourism and Visual Resources

• Loss of Balhaf Bay to future tourism (at least until final decommissioning

• Potential visual impacts

• Construction techniques to protect the sensitive value of the bay

• Contribution to CZMP and sustainable tourism to the east

Minor

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Receptor Potential Impacts Main Mitigation Measures Residual Impact

Significance

from construction of Balhaf

Archaeology and Cultural Heritage

• Construction of pipeline: two main areas of interest: Darbas at KP 125 and tombs on the plateau

• Construction of Balhaf LNG plant: Disturbance of existing archaeological sites (late-Islamic cemetery, Neolithic site to the south, Bronze Age site near camp) and loss of some buildings of recent historical interest (North Tower, Fortress)

• An Archaeological Protection Plan has been prepared to detail the measures to be taken to protect or record archaeological / historical sites.

Minor

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0.7. ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM The Environmental and Social Management System (ESMS) will be developed to ensure the proper implementation of the mitigation measures adopted by YLNG during the Construction and Operations phases.

Environmental Management Plans and procedures will be implemented to minimize the environmental impacts identified in the ESIA and will include the following main plans:

• Solid Waste Management;

• Water Conservation and Wastewater Management;

• Chemical Management;

• Monitoring and auditing; and

• Environmental and Archaeological Preservation.

The Waste Management Plan will include a strategy for managing wastes based on the hierarchical principles of “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Recover”. The Ministry of Water and the Environment will provide assistance to identify recycling and treatment waste facilities.

The Water Conservation Plan will include protection measures of groundwater aquifers during pipeline construction. Water being a major issue in Yemen, YLNG will analyze any possibility to re-use wastewater. Potential uses include dust suppression, gardening or construction of green zones.

A Chemicals Management Plan will be developed which details the measures to minimize the potential for pollution of surface water, groundwater, and land from storage and handling hazardous chemical.

A Spill Pollution Prevention and Control Plan (SPPC) and an Emergency Response Plan (ERP) will be developed to respond rapidly and effectively to emergency situations that may occur during LNG plant and pipeline construction and operation. The ERP describes strategies for spill/release prevention and spill containment and cleanup, including site-specific considerations and descriptions of minor and major spill/release types.

The Social Management Plans that will be developed will include the following;

• Community Relations Management Plan;

• Construction Camp Management Plan;

• Transport Management Plan;

• Economic Loss Compensation Plan;

• Recruitment, Employment and Training Plan;

• Suppliers and Contractors Policy;

• Community Infrastructure and Utilities Plan;

• Tourism Management;

• Preliminary Community Investment Strategy; and

• Public Consultation and Disclosure Plan.

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YLNG recognizes the importance of Training YLNG and contractor personnel on environmental and social issues related to construction and operation activities in Yemen. Therefore, a training program shall be developed to ensure that all YLNG and contractor employees are briefed on the site-specific application of YLNG's and the ESMS.

YLNG is committed to designing local community initiatives to promote human development, with the objective that people living near the plant and pipeline should:

• Be able to develop their potential through better health care, education and training;

• Enjoy increased opportunities, for example in terms of work and mobility.

• Be agents in their own development, by participating in decision-making processes and contributing to the implementation, follow-up and fine-tuning of initiatives undertaken for their benefit.

This general framework for social initiatives should not overshadow the importance of taking into account the local environment, local expectations and considerations of long term sustainability. YLNG will work with stakeholders to identity the most appropriate solutions for the local social environment.

The ESMS will fully satisfy the requirements of all relevant policies and laws of Yemen and the international environmental community. Corrective actions shall be taken, as necessary, to improve environmental performance to meet these requirements.

The overall performance and the functioning and organization of the Environmental and Social Management System will be regularly audited to ensure its adequacy, suitability, effectiveness and improvement.

YLNG will report to the Yemeni Authorities. Representatives of the Ministry of Water and Environment and of the Environment Protection Authority will carry out monitoring on a regular basis.

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CONTENTS

Section Page Number

1. INTRODUCTION AND METHODOLOGY.................................................................... 1-1

1.1. INTRODUCTION...........................................................................................................1-1 1.1.1. General ....................................................................................................................1-1 1.1.2. History of the ESIA studies .....................................................................................1-1 1.1.3. ESIA guidelines and policies...................................................................................1-2

1.2. METHODOLOGY OF THE ESIA...................................................................................1-2 1.2.1. Scope of the ESIA...................................................................................................1-2 1.2.2. Identification of Potential Impacts ...........................................................................1-3 1.2.3. Mitigation Measures ................................................................................................1-4 1.2.4. Residual Impact and Compensatory Measures .....................................................1-4 1.2.5. Impact Significance.................................................................................................1-4 1.2.6. Human Health and Safety Risks ...........................................................................1-10

1.3. REPORT ORGANIZATION.........................................................................................1-11

FIGURES

After page n°.

Figure 1-1 YLNG Project Location Map 1-1

TABLES

Table 1-1: Ranking of severity on soil, surface water and groundwater

Table 1-2: Ranking of severity on biological resources

Table 1-3: Ranking of severity on socio-economic resources

Table 1-4: Ranking of severity on air quality

Table 1-5: Ranking of noise severity

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1. INTRODUCTION AND METHODOLOGY

1.1. INTRODUCTION 1.1.1. General

Yemen LNG Company Ltd. (YLNG) proposes to construct a natural gas pipeline and a LNG plant in Yemen. The Project is known as the Yemen Liquefied Natural Gas Project. The main components of the Project are:

The Main Line will consist of a 325-kilometer-long, 38 inch external diameter, 1,280 MMSCFD (could be expanded to 1,460 MMSCFD) capacity natural gas pipeline from the Kamil Processing Unit (KPU) to LNG plant site at Balhaf (see Figure 1-1).

The Transfer Line will link the KPU and CPU. The Transfer Line will consist of a 25-kilometer long, 30 inch-diameter pipeline, which will be constructed parallel to other existing 12 and 6-inch-diameter pipelines.

The Balhaf LNG plant will have a production capacity of 6.9 million tons per year and the finished product will be shipped out by sea in 135,000 to 205,000 m3 capacity LNG carriers every three to four days. The LNG plant will occupy an area of approximately 150 hectares and will include the following principal components: LNG plant, jetty for loading and shipping of the final product, harbour for general cargo and boat mooring, air-strip, and ancillary facilities such as a waste water treatment plant, desalinization plants, power generation, offices and worker camps.

In addition to the Main Line YLNG proposes to construct a second natural gas pipeline which will transport the gas from Central Processing Unit (CPU) to Ma’bar. The Spur Line ESIA studies will be carried out separately under the World Bank standards which YLNG is committed to follow for this pipeline.

1.1.2. History of the ESIA studies

In 1997, YLNG carried out baseline survey (WCI 1997), along the pipeline route and at the Balhaf site. These studies comprised both onshore and coastal surveys, identifying soil and groundwater, fauna and flora and archaeology issues, socio-economic data and land uses in the Project area.

Following these surveys, YLNG conducted an EIA (WCI, 1997) for the pipeline and the LNG plant construction and operations. During the preparation of this first EIA, the design production capacity of the LNG plant was increased from 5.0 to 5.3 million tons per year. The process values presented in the first EIA were however based on a production capacity of 5.0 million tons per year. Therefore, the air emissions and waste generation for the Project were slightly greater than those predicted.

The Project was then shelved for commercial reasons, and was reactivated again in 2004 with an increased production capacity of 6.9 million tons per year and revised design data.

In the years following the first EIA, YLNG undertook several additional studies: a socio-economic baseline survey (June 2001) conducted by two scientists from YGC in Sana’a, a 3D Model Study On Thermal Distribution Around The Outfall And Effects On Coral Reefs by SOGREAH in November 2001 and a complementary field survey by the Project team in November 2004.

Title

Location

Client

ENVIRONMENTALAND SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

YLNG PROJET LOCATION MAP

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Ref.

See barscale

LYO

February 2006

JLL

43683552 Figure 1-1

Format

A4

Spur line

MA’BAR

Gas pipelineSupplying YLNG with 1 Bcf/d

Gas field10 Tcf resrves

LNG plant

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In 2005, YLNG has undertaken several studies including a marine survey of the Balhaf area by Creocean, a complementary 3D model on thermal distribution by SOGREAH; a field validation terrestrial survey of the pipeline route; a complementary archaeological survey along the pipeline route and in the Balhaf area; complementary socio-economic baseline surveys and a fishery survey.

The present ESIA is an updated study of the 1997 EIA, taking into account the current environmental and social regulation of Yemen, the revised design as well as additional data collected by YLNG up to December 2005.

1.1.3. ESIA guidelines and policies

This ESIA addresses the key environmental and social issues of the YLNG Project that are required by the Yemeni regulation (EPL N°26 of 1995) and was prepared according to the guidelines of the World Bank. It also complies with the law No. 11 (1993) for the Protection of the Marine Environment, amended by Law No. 16 of 2004 regarding the Free Polluted Area from oil pollution. The objective of this ESIA is also to provide the lending institutions information on how the YLNG Project that will be financed is developed in a manner that is environmentally and socially responsible and reflects sound management practices, as required by the Equator Principles.

Thus this ESIA complies with the following policies and guidelines on conducting environmental and social impact assessment:

• IFC OP 4.01 Environmental Assessment, 1998, and;

• World Bank operational policies on the Content of an Environmental Assessment report (OP 4-01 – Annex B, January 1999, revised August 2004).

In addition, Section 2.0 of this ESIA includes a list of Agency policies and guidelines adopted by YLNG and the standards applicable to this gas pipeline and LNG plant Project.

1.2. METHODOLOGY OF THE ESIA The overall purpose of this Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) is to evaluate the environmental and social issues and predicted environmental and social impacts associated with the construction and operation of the Main Line and the Transfer Line and of the Balhaf LNG plant and its related facilities. This report presents the results of this ESIA, as well as the mitigation measures, which have been proposed to minimize the extent of any environmental and social damage resulting from the construction and operation of these facilities.

1.2.1. Scope of the ESIA

The scope of the ESIA includes:

• Analysis of the environmental regulation of Yemen and international regulations relevant to the YLNG Project;

• Description of the pipeline and LNG plant ;

• Identification and quantification of the emissions, discharges and waste generated by the pipelines and LNG plant;

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• Description of the environment including the socio-economic situation in the area of the pipeline and LNG plant;

• Identification and evaluation of the magnitude level of the impacts of the planned construction and operations on the environment and on the socio-economic situation of the region;

• Description of the adopted mitigation measures to reduce/eliminate the impacts of the construction and operations;

• Development of a general framework for an Environmental and Social Management System (ESMS) including a monitoring program on both the emissions and on the potentially affected environment surrounding the projected operations. The ESMS also presents the content of the Environmental and Social Management Plans that will be developed for the construction of the YLNG facilities.

The information for the existing environmental and social conditions was collected from the various surveys conducted by YLNG as indicated in Section 1.1.1 above. Other sources of information include discussions with YLNG and review of existing information prepared specifically for this Project, as well as broader scientific and technical literature. The environmental and social baseline conditions for the pipelines and for the LNG plant are described in Section 4.0.

1.2.2. Identification of Potential Impacts

Potential impacts are identified and discussed in Section 5.0 for the Main Line and Transfer Line and associated construction camps, and from the construction and operation of the Balhaf LNG Plant and associated facilities and camps. The impacts have been differentiated for the various phases of the project: construction, operation, and decommissioning. For the activities of these phases of the Project, the ESIA identifies the aspects that can potentially impact the environmental resources and socio-economic receptors.

The following resources and receptors are considered:

• Soil, water and groundwater resources

• Biological resources (terrestrial and marine),

• Socio-economic receptors (land use, economic activities, archaeology, visual resources);

• Air Quality;

• Ambient Noise Level;

For the pipelines, the environmental impacts are analyzed along a corridor of 0.5 to 1-kilometer width, centred on the pipeline alignment. Sensitive features within the vicinity of this corridor, but not likely to be impacted by the Project, are also highlighted. The impacts for the LNG plant are analyzed for the onshore, coastal and marine environment of the plant. For the socio-economic receptors, the ESIA analyzes the impacts on the Project Area which encompass population and economic activities within the Project region.

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The assessment differentiates between:

• Positive and negative impacts (beneficial or detrimental);

• Direct and indirect impacts;

• Temporary and permanent impacts (including short-term, i.e. less than 3 years; and long-term, i.e. greater than 3 years);

• Cumulative impacts.

The definitions used throughout this report are as follows.

Direct Impacts: which are caused by the action or alternatives and occur at the same time and location as the action.

Indirect Impacts: which are caused by the action and are later in time or farther removed in distance, but can be reasonably foreseen. Indirect impacts may include effects related to induced changes in the pattern of land use, population density or socio-economic growth rate, and related effects on air and water and other natural systems, including ecosystems;

Cumulative Impacts: which result from the incremental impact of the action when added to other past, present, and/or reasonably foreseen future actions, regardless of the organization (public or private) or person who undertakes such other actions. Cumulative impacts can result from individually minor but collectively significant actions taking place over a period of time.

1.2.3. Mitigation Measures Mitigation measures are described for each potential impact. Mitigations typically include strategies or design changes and improvement that prevent, avoid, minimize, restore or compensate impacts. The various mitigation measures can have been built into the design or are recommended to minimize the occurrence or/and the magnitude of these potential impacts and unplanned events.

1.2.4. Residual Impact and Compensatory Measures

Some residual impact is expected to remain after mitigation measures; their significance is scored according to the significance levels. The significance is assessed on the basis of severity/consequence and the likelihood that it will occur.

If the residual impact after mitigation leads to long-term impacts, which may be considered as being still too high, compensatory measures will be studied.

The mitigation and compensatory measures are implemented and monitored through environmental and social management plans. Section 7.0 Environmental and Social Management System (ESMS) presents the process of effective implementation of the mitigation measures and management of the residual impact through management and monitoring plans.

1.2.5. Impact Significance

The significance of the residual impact, whether positive or negative, in this ESIA has been determined in accordance with World Bank guidelines, other international guidelines and other relevant ESIAs that have been prepared for similar operations.

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SCALE OF RESIDUAL IMPACT SIGNIFICANCE

Impact Significance

Definition

Negligible Impact:

Impacts whose effects are known to occur but unlikely to be noticed.

Minor Impact: Impacts small in scale and well within accepted limits and standards, where the resulting change is within the existing range of variability, but is detectable and do no require additional compensatory measure.

Moderate Impact: Impacts which will be within accepted limits and standards, but may cause change to a relatively small area of critical natural habitats or protected or locally important zone. However these changes do not affect the integrity of the rest of the sensitive zone. Additional compensatory measures and monitoring plans may be considered

Major Impact: Impacts where an accepted limit or standard may be exceed or large magnitude impacts occur to critical natural habitats of internationally or nationally protected importance and lead to significant diminution of the integrity of these habitats. Additional compensatory measures and monitoring plans are required.

Note: critical natural habitats definition according to Annex A of the WB Operational policy OP 4.04 June 2001 – Revised August 2004 – “Natural Habitats”

The severity of significance of residual impact on each resource is scaled in the following tables.

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Soil, surface water and groundwater

Table 1-1 - Ranking of severity on soil, surface water and groundwater

Resource Negligible Minor Moderate Major

Soil Not discernible Visible erosion but no gully formation

Some gully formation

Extensive gully formation

Surface water Not discernible Low modification of the normal run-off pathway

or visible sediment observed for less than 3 weeks

or low sensitivity of surface water to contamination from accidental spills

or low potential for scour to occur in wadi alluvial beds during high intensity flow events

or effluent discharge in surface water within discharge limits, rapid dilution, no discernible impact expected

Modification of the normal run-off pathway

or visible sediment observed for more than 3 weeks

or medium sensitivity of surface water to contamination from accidental spills

or medium potential for scour to occur in wadi alluvial beds during high intensity flow events

or effluent discharge in surface water within discharge limits but poor dilution capacity

Modification of the normal run-off pathway

or visible sediment observed for more than 3 weeks

or high sensitivity of surface water to contamination from accidental spills

or high potential for scour to occur in wadi alluvial beds during high intensity flow events

or effluent discharge in surface water above discharge limits.

Groundwater Not discernible Low sensitivity of groundwater to contamination from accidental spills

or some impact on the groundwater resource from usage

Medium sensitivity of groundwater to contamination from accidental spills

or significant depletion of local groundwater resource from usage

High sensitivity of groundwater to contamination from accidental spills

or significant depletion of a large aquifer from usage

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Biological Resources

For the biological resources, terrestrial (fauna and flora) and marine (coral reefs, fishes), the severity scale is based on a matrix of the magnitude of impact and the value/sensitivity of the resources:

Table 1-2 - Ranking of severity on biological resources

Magnitude of Impact

Value/ sensitivity of the Resource

No Impact Low Magnitude impact

Medium Magnitude

Impact

High Magnitude

Impact

Low value/ sensitivity, locally important habitat or ecosystem

Negligible Minor Minor Moderate

Moderate value/ sensitivity or nationally important habitat or ecosystem

Negligible Minor Moderate Major

High value/ sensitivity or internationally important habitat or ecosystem

Negligible Moderate Major Major

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Socio-economic receptors (population centres, local economy, infrastructures and services, archaeology and cultural heritage, tourism and visual resources)

For the socio-economic receptors, the severity is scaled for positive as well as negative impacts according to the following table:

Table 1- 3 - Ranking of severity on socio-economic receptors

Aspect Negligible Minor Moderate Major

Archaeology and cultural heritage

Archaeological resources will not be affected

A small proportion (1 to 10%) of the surviving archaeological sites may be damaged or destroyed.

A moderate proportion (10 to 50%) of the surviving archaeological sites may be damaged or destroyed.

A major proportion (50 to 100%) of the surviving archaeological sites may be damaged or destroyed.

Tourism and Visual resources

Change in viewpoint not discernable

Few viewpoints affected / minor change in view

Many viewpoints affected / major changes in view

Majority of viewpoints affected /major changes in view

Agriculture Less than 1% of the cultivated land of the 5 km corridor impacted by the Project

Between 1 and 10% of the cultivated land of the 5 km corridor impacted by the Project

Between 10 and 50% of the cultivated land of the 5 km corridor impacted by the Project

More than 50% of the cultivated land of the 5 km corridor impacted by the Project

Employment and local / regional economy

No discernible long-term affect on employment and the local / regional economy

Minor long term affect on employment and the local / regional economy

Moderate long term affect on employment and the local / regional economy

Major long term affect on employment and the local / regional economy

Traffic (during construction and operation)

No discernable affect on traffic in the Project area

Minor affect on traffic in the area /minor delays on local roads

Moderate affect on traffic in the area /moderate delays on local roads

Major affect on traffic in the area /major delays on local roads

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Air quality The YLNG Project will comply with air quality standard set for the Project (see Section 2.0). These are similar to air quality criteria proposed by the World Bank. Potential impacts of the various emission sources of the Project were evaluated by estimating air pollutant emissions caused by exhaust of heavy equipment for construction and information published by the USEPA. For the LNG plant operation, the potential impacts of the various sources of air emissions (burners, compressor turbines. etc) were assessed from an air quality model. Residual Impacts of the plant, once the mitigation measures were adopted for the design of the various sources in order to reduce the emissions, were assessed by comparing the ambient air quality obtained from the model results at the nearest off-site receptors to the air quality standards and using the following scale of severity:

Table 1- 4 - Ranking of severity on air quality

Activity Negligible Minor Moderate Major

Non-modelled sources – construction, degraded-conditions

Off-site receptors at more than 5 km from the emission source or air quality changes are not discernible

Off-site receptors in the vicinity of the emission source, but emissions are anticipated to be transient, short-term and good dispersion conditions

Off-site receptors in the vicinity of the emission source, air quality expected to be impacted but short-term

Off-site receptors in the vicinity of the emission source, but emissions are anticipated to be long-term and poor dispersion conditions

Continuous operation – Long term (modelled sources)

Less than 10% of the Air Quality Standard at nearest human receptor

Between 10% and 50% of the Air Quality Standard at nearest human receptor

Between 50% and 100% of the Air Quality Standard at nearest human receptor

More than 100% of the Air Quality Standards at nearest human receptor

Note: Ambient Air Quality Standards adopted for the Project (Section 2.4)

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Ambient Noise Level Potential impact from noise was assessed by comparing expected noise levels at plant fence (provided by design values) to World Bank noise standards for sensitive uses (see Section 2.0).

Table 1- 5 - Ranking of noise severity

Activity Negligible Minor Moderate Major

Construction- Intermittent or temporary

No discernible noise level increase

Planning guidelines not exceeded for the affected land use, increase short-term ambient noise by less than 10dBA

Planning guidelines exceeded for the affected land use, increase short-term ambient noise by 10 to 20dBA

Planning guidelines exceeded for the affected land use, increase short-term ambient noise by more than 20dBA

Continuous operation

No discernible noise level increase

Planning guidelines not exceeded for the affected land use, and increase long-term ambient noise by less than 3dBA

Planning guidelines exceeded for the affected land use, increase long-term ambient noise by 3 to 5 dBA

Planning guidelines exceeded for the affected land use, increase long-term ambient noise by 5 to 10 dBA

Note: from World Bank “Pollution Prevention Abatement Handbook – General Environmental Guidelines

1.2.6. Human Health and Safety Risks

The analysis of the human health and safety risks associated with the operation of the pipelines and LNG plant, based on the probability of a fatality or serious injury as a result of an accidental gas release, fire and/or explosion will be addressed in a specific document that will also include a description of the Project Health and Safety policies and program of YLNG.

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1.3. REPORT ORGANIZATION The ESIA report follows the requirements of the World Bank operational policies on the Content of an Environmental Assessment Report (OP 4-01 – Annex B, January 1999 revised August 2004) and is presented under the following main sections:

0. Executive Summary: the executive summary provides an overview of the Project, the data and methodology used in identifying and assessing the impacts and tables showing the environmental hazards, potential impacts, severity of impacts and adopted mitigations measures.

1. Introduction: this section provides background information related to the YLNG Project and defines the objectives, scope and methodology of the ESIA.

2. Legal and Administrative Framework: this section provides a synthesis of relevant regulation of Yemen and International environmental regulation and environmental and socio-economic standards and policies adopted by YLNG.

3. Project Description: this section describes the projected facilities (pipelines and LNG plant), the construction sequences, the future operations and the decommissioning. It evaluates emissions, discharges and wastes generated by the construction and operations.

4. Description of the Environment: this section provides a description of the baseline environmental and socio-economic data and an examination of the physical, biological and social aspects of the Project Area.

5. Assessment of impacts and mitigations measures: this section concerns the identification and evaluation of the projected impacts to the environment and the social context of the Project region, which will occur as a result of the future Project. Each impact is assessed to determine the significance (major, moderate, minor, negligible) according to a fixed methodology derived from the World Bank guidelines. The section describes the mitigations measures adopted for the Project. The scales of the residual impacts once the mitigations measures are in place are also evaluated. When the residual impact is considered detrimental to a given environmental medium, additional compensatory measures and/or monitoring plans are presented.

6. Analysis of Alternatives: this section compares feasible alternatives to the Project: alternative routes for the pipelines and alternatives sites for the LNG plant and states the basis for the selecting the proposed options.

7. Environmental and Social Management System: this section provides an overview of each of the major ESMS components, including environmental and social organization within YLNG, waste management, chemical storage and handling management, emergency plans, training, social management, monitoring of emissions and of the surrounding environment and auditing.

8. References and list of preparers: this section indicates the references used for this study and the list of the persons who participated to the field surveys and ESIA studies.

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CONTENTS

Section Page Number

2. POLICY, LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK ........................................ 2-1

2.1. POLICY, LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK OF YEMEN......................2-1 2.1.1. General Framework ................................................................................................2-1 2.1.2. Environmental Protection Council...........................................................................2-2 2.1.3. Environment Protection Authority (EPA) ................................................................2-3 2.1.4. The Environmental Protection Law (EPL) No 26 of 1995 ......................................2-5 2.1.5. The Law n°11 for the Protection of the Marine Environment .................................2-8 2.1.6. Operational Discharge Controls..............................................................................2-8 2.1.7. Emergency Preparedness and Response..............................................................2-9 2.1.8. Other Laws related to the Environment ................................................................2-10

2.2. INTERNATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL CONVENTIONS ...........................................2-11

2.3. ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL POLICIES FOLLOWED BY YLNG ......................2-13

2.4. ENVIRONMENTAL STANDARDS APPLICABLE TO THE PROJECT......................2-14

TABLES

Table 2-1 Global Conventions Protecting the Environment

Table 2-2 Ambient Air Quality Standards Adopted for the YLNG Project

Table 2-3 Atmospheric Emission Requirements Adopted for the YLNG Project

Table 2-4 Concentrations Limits for the Point of Discharge into the Sea

Table 2-5 World Bank Criteria for Noise-Sensitive Land Uses

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2. POLICY, LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK

2.1. POLICY, LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK OF YEMEN

2.1.1. General Framework

The Republic of Yemen was formed on 22 May 1990 through the unification of the Yemen Arab Republic (YAR) and the People’s Democratic Republic of Yemen (PDRY). Its first constitution was passed in 1991, at which time the central government functions were transferred to the new capital city of Sana’a. Since the unification, legislated environmental protection in Yemen has been undergoing a rapid development process.

The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), formerly called Environment Protection Council (EPC) is the central organization responsible for policy making on the protection of the environment.

The Ministry of Water and the Environment has the overall responsibility for environmental management in Yemen. The following ministries have environmental management responsibilities with regards to the oil and gas industry:

• The Ministry of Oil and Minerals (MOM) is responsible for assessing the potential environmental impacts from oil and gas pipelines and other upstream and downstream related facilities, as well as damage resulting from oil spills. The MOM is assisted by the EPC in coordinating environmental studies within the country. The MOM executes all PSAs and GDAs on the state’s behalf. The PSAs and GDAs remain subject to ratification by law according to constitutional procedures before becoming effective. The MOM is also YLNG’s primary point of contact with the government of Yemen.

• The Ministry of Agriculture and Water Resources (MAWR) is focused on the management of biological resources. Various departments within MAWR deal with different issues such as the protection and management of wildlife, agriculture, forestry and fisheries. At this time, MAWR has no legislative mandate for environmental protection.

• The Maritime Affairs Authority (MAA) is responsible for taking measures to prevent the pollution of the sea. Under Law No. 16 of 2004 Regarding the Protection of Marine Environment from Pollution (PMEFP). the PCMA has full power to intervene, investigate and regulate marine pollution. Such powers extend to the inspection and detention of vessels.

• Legislation on the protection on marine and terrestrial habitats in Yemen is also addressed under the Environment Protection Law (EPL) 1995. This legislation, described further in Section 2.3, includes articles on requirements for environmental assessment, the control of waste discharges, the prevention of marine pollution and compensation for environmental damage.

Prior to the implementation of the Environmental Protection Law of 1995 (EPL), legislation regarding the management of flora and fauna was primarily aimed at commercial fishing and

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livestock interests. The only legislation focused on the protection of wildlife within Yemen was Law nº 40 of 1977, which banned the hunting of gazelles in all areas for 10 years. Since the expiration of this law in 1987, no additional legislation has been promulgated. However, in the last few years, the MAWR has been in the process of proposing major wildlife conservation legislation.

In addition to the EPL, several new laws related to the environment are in various stages of development, including: the Law for the Protection of the Marine Environment from Pollution, which will deal with pollution of the marine environment by oil and its products from both ships and marine structures and shore-based operations; the Civil Aviation Law, which will deal with noise and atmospheric pollution; the Land Use Law, which will address the environmental effects of automobiles and roads; and the Ports Law, which will deal with environmental protection within port areas. A new Forest law and new Water and Sewage Law are also in preparation. In addition, the proposed Municipality Law will focus on the decentralization of the provision of public services, and may affect environmental regulation within Yemen. (EPC,1996).

It should be noted that, although the EPL outlines a legislative framework with regards to environmental assessment, an administrative and regulatory process governing project approval under the EPL has not yet been established in Yemen. In addition no guidelines for undertaking an environmental assessment have been produced by the Yemeni government. This ESIA was therefore undertaken using recognized international guidelines, in particular those outlined by the World Bank for oil and gas operations.

Local rural communities are governed by sheikhs and aqils, who rule the community by consent based on the Koran, the Islamic Sharia law and the traditional or tribal law - Urf. Such laws or customs, which often include a significant element of environmental and land-use rules, tend to regulate rural life to a much greater extent than legislation of the central government.

2.1.2. Environmental Protection Council

The Environmental Protection Council (EPC) was first established under the former Yemen Arab Republic in 1987 and has continued to function after unification in 1990. The EPC was established under the chairmanship of the Council of Ministers and was responsible for setting the national policy for environmental protection. The EPC was also empowered to coordinate the various other government ministries to ensure the implementation of this policy. This council had predominant expertise in the area of environmental health, and national programs for the protection of the natural environment are currently in their initial stages.

The EPC consisted of the following 11 executive members from various ministries and government agencies:

1. Minister of Municipalities and Housing (Chairman);

2. Minister of Health (Vice Chairman);

3. Deputy Advisor, Deputy Legal Office (member);

4. Deputy Chief of Staff for Military Affairs (member);

5. Deputy Interior Minister for Internal Security (member);

6. Deputy Minister of Municipalities and Housing (member);

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7. Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries (member);

8. Deputy Minister of Economy and Supply for Economic Sector (member);

9. Chairman of the Board of Port Authority (member);

10. General Director of Physical Planning in the Ministry of Municipalities (member);

11. General Director of Environmental Health in the Ministry of Municipalities (member, Recorder and Undersecretary to the Council).

The EPC had been attached to the Department of Environmental Health in the former MMH and the General Director of Environmental Health in MMH serves as the Undersecretary of the EPC.

In 1996, a National Environment Action Plan was published for Yemen by the EPC. Major environmental concerns identified by the EPC include: water management, control of desertification, abatement of industrial impacts on the environment, hazardous wastes, marine pollution, sanitation, legislation and education activities, and institution building. In establishing the EPC work plans for these programs, six committees have been formed and external support has been offered by the government of the Netherlands (technical support) as well as by international organizations such as UNEP (for preparation of work plans and various experts) and UNEP/FAO (for desertification measures). Later on EPC was renamed as the Environment Protection Authority (EPA).

2.1.3. Environment Protection Authority (EPA)

EPA has been established to carry out the activities of environmental protection and natural resources conservation. Accordingly, the Authority is the official and specialized governmental agency for environmental protection and natural resources conservation with the following objectives:

• Protect the environment and conserve its balance and maintain the ecosystems;

• Combat the different kinds of pollution and avoiding any damage or negative impacts of various developmental projects;

• Protect and develop the natural resources and conserve the life qualities in national environment from the damages come from outside the national environment;

• Protect the society, human health and other organisms from the different non-environmentally activities;

• Eliminate air pollution and the impacts of climate change.

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The duties of the Authority to achieve its objectives are as follows:

1. Propose and implement policies, strategies and plans for protecting the environment.

2. Prepare national emergency plans to face natural disasters and pollution in coordination with concerned agencies.

3. Carry out environmental surveys and determine the areas, resources and species which require taking legal procedures for their conservation. Protect the fauna and flora and wild and marine birds according the existing laws and legislation and monitor their application.

4. Prepare proposed laws and legislation related to environment protection in coordination with MOTE and concerned agencies.

5. Field follow ups to implement the criteria and stipulations to commit the public and private establishments to implement them and take the recited procedures in EPL and other existing legislation in coordination with concerned agencies.

6. Prescribe the referring principles, procedures and terms of environmental impact assessment and review EIA studies of public and private projects to give opinion and monitor their implementations.

7. Prescribe the national criteria to protect the environment from pollution, conserve the natural resources and monitor its implementation in coordination with concerned agencies.

8. Implement the international commitments related to environmental protection that have been ratified by Republic of Yemen.

9. Collect the international, regional and national data and information related to the changes on environment and natural resources periodically in coordination with concerned agencies. Assess the data and information to be used in environmental planning and management.

10. Prepare regular reports on environmental status and main environmental indicators in Republic of Yemen to be published periodically.

11. Propose protected areas and manage them in coordination with concerned agencies according to existing laws and legislation.

12. Prepare integrated plans for coastal zone management in coordination with concerned agencies.

13. Prepare and implement pilot projects to protect the environment and conserve the natural resources.

14. Prepare and implement environmental awareness programs.

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2.1.4. The Environmental Protection Law (EPL) No 26 of 1995

In 1993, the cabinet of the Yemeni government approved the draft Environment Protection Law (EPL) and, in 1995, the proposed legislation was ratified by Parliament as presidential decrees and laws. The EPL includes regulations for the protection of both the marine and terrestrial (land) environments and outlines the basic objectives and roles of concerned authorities in the protection of air, water, and soil. It establishes controls on pesticide use, environmentally damaging activities, transportation and disposal of hazardous materials and wastes, environmental monitoring, and marine pollution. It is very general in nature, and does not provide specific compliance standards for area such as air and water emissions or soil and groundwater contamination.

This Law is currently under revision and it is going to be fully revised. The Executive Plan for the above law is under preparation.

The following is a chronological list of the legislation that addresses environmental issues in Yemen:

• Prime Ministerial Decree No. 7 of 1987: Establishing the Environmental Protection Council;

• Law No 42 of 1991: On the Regulation and Protection of Sea Life;

• Law No. 11 of 1993: Amended by Law No. 16 of 2004: On the Protection of Marine Life from Pollution;

• Law No. 12 of 1994: On Crime and Punishment;

• Law No. 26 of 29 October 1995: Environmental Protection Law.

Environmental Impact Assessment The EPL establishes special importance to an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) as a tool for combining both environmental protection and sustainable development. Part 3 of the EPL establishes the basis for the control of environmentally damaging projects and/or activities. The law includes a requirement (Article 36) for an EIA to be undertaken prior to implementation of any project or activity which might cause negative effects to the environment. For these activities, licenses shall not be issued unless an EIA has been undertaken. In addition, activities already established prior to the implementation of the rules are required to submit an EIA to the competent body within a year (Article 40).

Under Article 37 of the EPL, the Yemeni government has the authority to issue a decree which will outline the criteria to be used in determining whether a proposed activity may substantially affect the environment. The decree may also determine the elements that compose the EIA.

Under Article 39 of the EPL, the competent authority must take into account the following considerations when deciding to approve or reject the EIA:

• The current state of the environment in which the activity will be established;

• The environmental impact that may occur due to the Project establishment;

• Any other development that may be reasonably expected in the area where the activity is proposed to be carried out;

• Any objections that have arisen or which may arise out of the Project.

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The Law also contains a number of general propositions, including, Article 4(8), which requires all new projects and establishments to use the best available technologies to protect the environment and control pollution. Existing projects are required to comply with the environmental standards and norms issued by the EPC.

At the time the EIA for the YLNG Project was undertaken, only the basic legislative framework had been introduced with respect to the environmental assessment process in Yemen.

Protected areas At international level, Yemen is a party to the World Heritage Convention 1972, the Biological Diversity Convention 1992 and the Desertification Convention 1994.

Prior to the issue of the EPL 1995 there was no national legislation governing protected areas in Yemen. However, traditional forms of rangeland protected area (mahjour or mahjur) were and continue to be practised by local communities in Yemeni rural areas. Furthermore, under the tribal jurisdiction of local sheikhs or administrators, there have been cases of local forest felling bans and entry bans into certain areas to protect the environment, with fines applying in the case of infringements. For example, such community initiatives have been functioning for a number of years in Jebel Lawz and Wadi Zabid.

A national legal framework for habitat and species protection was established by the EPL 1995. The Law provides for the establishment of natural protected areas, defined as land or water (both coastal and inland) that enjoys special protection to preserve its environment, archaeological features, or to protect fauna, flora, birds or marine species that are endangered or threatened with extinction (Article 2(20) & 11(1)). The Yemeni EPC or any other concerned body may submit proposals to the cabinet for the designation of natural protected areas (Article 11, EPL 1995). In particular, it is prohibited to construct establishments, buildings or roads, or to transport vehicles and equipment, or to perform any commercial or industrial activities unless permission has been obtained from the competent authority specified by the cabinet (Article 11(2), EPL 1995).

With regard to species protection, Article 12 of the EPL 1995 states that all fauna and birds (including migratory species) have "legal protection". However, the government may by resolution permit the hunting for commercial or other purposes of certain species at certain times. The EPL 1995 also establishes prohibitions relating to rare species of flora and the conducting of industrial or commercial activities in agricultural or other environmentally sensitive areas.

A new Law for Protecting Sensitive Areas is under preparation. Currently the Environment General Authority is preparing contracts for conducting a study aiming at establishing a plan for determining and managing protected areas. The implementation of this study has begun in March 2002.

Based on the results of the above-mentioned study, a new Law for Protecting Sensitive Areas will be prepared. The purpose of the law will be to:

• Determine sensitive areas

• Regulate investment in such areas

• Regulate management of such areas through public participation

• The coastal area of Balhaf – Burum will be covered by this law.

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Pollution Free Areas: The EPL 1995 makes provision for the establishment of "pollution-free areas", defined in Article 2(19) as the territorial sea, the contiguous zone, the exclusive economic zone and the continental shelf, as well as any other area specified by law. Under Article 27, the EPC is vested with the power to designate pollution-free areas and green belts in which construction, agriculture or industrial activities which cause damage and environmental pollution are prohibited.

Atmospheric Emissions The EPL 1995 does not contain any chapters dedicated to the prevention of air pollution. However, a number of its general provisions apply to all environmental media, such as Article 4(2) under which all new projects must use the best available technology to protect the environment and control pollution, including pollution of the atmosphere.

The EPL 1995 does, however, make provision for the establishment of environmental standards. Article 30 requires the EPC to prepare environmental standards and criteria in order to regulate, inter alia, emissions of pollutants to the air and noise.

Chemical Management There are no industry-specific regulations governing the management of chemicals in E&P operations in Yemen. The EPL 1995 establishes a framework for the development of controls on the use and handling of toxic and hazardous substances in Yemen and requires the EPC to prepare a list of toxic and hazardous materials, which is to be formally issued in a cabinet decree (Article 44(2)). The list must be reviewed, amended and updated from time to time in accordance with scientific and technical progress. The Yemeni cabinet may establish particular measures to be taken in respect of the listed toxic or hazardous materials. Such measures may relate to, for example, the method and location of disposal, conditions of storage and transportation, or packaging and labelling requirements (Article 47).

Waste Management There are no industry-specific regulations governing the management of wastes arising from oil and gas E&P operations. Yemeni waste management in general has had little direct regulation in the past. However, a framework for the future development of waste management law is provided by the EPL 1995.

Article 22 of the EPL 1995 imposes a general prohibition on the dumping, disposal or discharge of pollutants of a type or quantity that affects or causes damage to the environment. A specific prohibition on the disposal or discharge of toxic or hazardous materials is imposed under Article 50 of the Law, which also requires all necessary measures and precautions to be taken to prevent any risk of such a disposal or discharge. If the person responsible for the discharge and disposal is unable to take such measures, the EPC has the power to take the measures itself and recover its costs from the person responsible.

A wider prohibition against the handling of toxic and hazardous wastes is imposed under Article 53 of the EPL 1995, which prohibits the importing, dumping, burying, disposal or storage of toxic, radioactive and hazardous wastes by any means in Yemen.

The EPC and other competent state bodies are subject to a number of obligations under the EPL 1995 relating to the development of waste management regulation in Yemen, including the preparation and publishing of standards relating to the disposal of pollutants.

The Yemeni government has not yet issued the necessary rules and regulations to give effect to the EPL 1995. Nevertheless, the contractor's proposals for waste management

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during E&P operations must form part of any EIA required by the Yemeni authorities prior to the commencement of operations.

Environmental liability The EPL 1995 also addresses liability for environmental damage, including the assessment of costs for removing damages, remediation of the environment and penalty compensation.

Under the EPL 1995, any authority with project-licensing responsibilities also has the power to intervene where a licensed project causes environmental pollution or deterioration. Penalties for breach of the EPL 1995 include a maximum prison sentence of ten years, as well as payment of any compensation due. These penalties are expressed to be without prejudice to any stronger penalties provided for in the Sharia Islamic Law, and other valid laws and executive regulations. A maximum sentence of ten years imprisonment is also laid down by the Law on Crime and Punishment 1994 for pollution which causes risk to life or serious injury.

2.1.5. The Law n°11 for the Protection of the Marine Environment The law No. 11 for the Protection of the Marine Environment, 1993 amended by Law No. 16 of 2004 is aimed at protecting the Free Polluted Area from oil pollution. Except for Part 6 (the penalties) and part 7 (final Rules), the articles of this law have been revised and included in the EPL Law No. 26 of 1995 under part 4 (marine pollution).

The law prohibits throwing, dumping or the discharge of any wastes relating to oil exploration and production or shipping processes to the Free Polluted Area before such wastes are treated by the best available techniques of waste treatment which should comply with international rules and specifications and an emergency plan agreed by the Environment Authority, which should cover personnel, equipment and materials should be prepared.

The Maritime Affairs Authority (MAA) is responsible for taking measures to prevent the pollution of the sea. Under Law No. 16 of 2004 regarding the Protection of Marine Environment from Pollution (PMEFP), the MAA has full power to intervene, investigate and regulate marine pollution. Such powers extend to the inspection and detention of vessels.

2.1.6. Operational Discharge Controls

At international level, Yemen is party to the Jeddah Convention 1982 which concerns the conservation and prevention of pollution of the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. Parties to the Convention are required to take all appropriate measures to prevent, abate and combat pollution of the sea area from various sources, including land-based activities, ships, marine structures and, specifically under Article VII of the Convention, offshore E&P operations.

E&P-specific operational discharge controls do not exist under Yemeni law and, as yet, no general or specific discharge standards have been issued by the government. A framework for the development of discharge controls exists, however, under the EPL 1995. Article 22 of the 1995 Law as well as Article 35 of the (PMEFP) 2004 law impose a general prohibition on operational discharges. Operational discharges are also regulated under controls laid down in the EPL 1995 relating to the protection of water and soil. The 1995 Law also expressly prohibits any activity that contributes, either directly or indirectly, to soil pollution; and soil protection must be taken into consideration in EIAs undertaken prior to the commencement of projects which have a negative effect on the environment (Article 9, EPL 1995)

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Offshore: Article 63 of the EPL 1995 prohibits the discharge of any polluting materials into Yemeni territorial waters, continental shelf or exclusive economic zone from vessels or pipelines. Pollution of the marine environment from land-based sources is prohibited under Article 64 of the EPL 1995.

The Law regarding the Protection of Marine Life from Pollution 2004 governs discharges from vessels into the marine environment, prohibiting the discharge of any substances of a polluting nature and regulating the manner in which such substances should be handled.

The 2004 Law also empowers the Maritime Affairs Authority (MAA) to intervene, investigate and regulate pollution, including powers to board and detain vessels where necessary. The MAA also has the right to bring civil proceedings where damage to the marine environment has occurred Breaches of the 2004 Law are punishable by imprisonment.

Finally, the Law on the Protection of Sea Life 1991 aims to protect fisheries and to this end, inter alia, prohibits the discharge of chemicals and petrochemical substances into the sea unless such substances are treated and will not harm sea life.

The EPC is responsible for preparing and implementing the standards and criteria required to give full effect to the EPL 1995. In particular, the EPC is required under Article 30 to establish standards governing the discharge of pollutants to surface water, groundwater, seawater and land.

2.1.7. Emergency Preparedness and Response International Law: Yemen is party to the Jeddah Convention 1982 which concerns the conservation and prevention of pollution of the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. Article IX of the Convention requires contracting parties, acting individually or jointly, to take all appropriate measures to deal with pollution emergencies in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. Such measures include taking steps to ensure that adequate equipment and qualified personnel are readily available. Contracting parties are also required to co-ordinate their national contingency plans for combating marine pollution by oil or other harmful substances. Any contracting party which becomes aware of a pollution emergency in the sea area covered by the Convention must immediately notify the Convention's governing body - the Regional Organisation for the Conservation of the Red Sea and Gulf of Eden Environment - as well as any party likely to be affected by the incident (Article IX).

Yemen is also party to the Jeddah Protocol 1982, the objective of which is to facilitate and encourage co-operation between the parties to the Protocol in combating oil spills and loss of other harmful substances in the marine environment of the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. The Protocol requires contracting parties to maintain emergency contingency plans and to establish a Marine Emergency Mutual Aid Centre to assist in the development of national capabilities. Information about emergency situations that arise must be passed to other parties, who must use their best endeavours to provide assistance, if requested. Article VII of the Protocol obliges each contracting party to require that persons in charge of offshore installations report the existence of marine emergencies to the appropriate national authority.

Note: The 1982 Protocol was signed by both the former Yemen Arab Republic (YAR) and the People's Democratic Republic of Yemen (PDRY). However, the Protocol only entered into force for the YAR.

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National Level: Article 11.1 of the Production Sharing Agreements (1999 version) requires contractors to take all proper measures, according to generally accepted methods in the petroleum industry, to prevent loss or waste of petroleum during drilling, producing, transporting, storage and distribution operations. The MOM can prevent any operation on any well that might reasonably be expected to result in the loss or damage of the well or the oil and gas field.

New Production Sharing Agreements (2005 version) (namely for Blocks 2 and 3) included a new article which states as follows:

“The CONTRACTOR shall abide by, and ensure that sub contractors abide by, all environmental laws of the ROY and shall ensure that Petroleum Operations are conducted in accordance with standard Petroleum Industry Practices to ensure the protection of the environment.”

A legal requirement to prepare emergency contingency plans is imposed under Article 29 of the EPL 1995 as well as Article 35 of (PMEFP).

2.1.8. Other Laws related to the Environment

The Law No. 120 for the Prevention of Importing Equipment that use or contain Substances that deplete the Ozone Layer, 1998 Article (1) prevents the import of the equipment that use or contain the following substances:

• Freons : CFC 11,12,14,113

• Halons : 1211,1301

This law is currently under revision and it is intended to be replaced by a new applicable law that control the importing and use of the substances that deplete the ozone layer.

The Law No. 21 for Archaeology, 1994 Article (13) prohibits the establishment of heavy or dangerous industry in a distance of less than half a kilometre from any archaeological site except for cases exempted by the Authority of Archaeology.

The Law No. 21 for the States lands and Real Estates, 1995 Articles (37 and 38) restrict the use of Yemeni islands and coastlines and their prohibited areas to the rent for investment projects provided that the activities of such projects would not have adverse impacts on the environment.

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2.2. INTERNATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL CONVENTIONS Yemen has international environmental law obligations that are directly related to its national environmental planning activities and which concern both marine and terrestrial habitats. Either the former YAR and/or the former PDRY ratified many of the global treaties and conventions protecting the environment. According to the Unification Declarations, the international conventions ratified in this manner remain valid and are applicable to the whole nation.

Yemen has ratified all conventions listed in Table 2-1 (if the former YAR and the former PDRY signed the convention, then only the earlier date is given).

Amongst these conventions, the Regional Convention for the Conservation of the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden (1982) is applicable to the Project. In this convention, the contracting parties agree to prevent, abate and combat pollution resulted from:

• Discharges from ships (article IV)

• Dumping of wastes from ships and aircraft (article V)

• From land based sources :discharges from land reaching internal waters and the sea area whether water-bore, air bore or directly from the coast including outfall and pipelines:(article VI)

• From coastal dredging ( article XIII)

The contracting parties agree to give due concentration to the assessment of potential marine effects particularly in the coastal areas with the help of international standards (XI).

The contracting parties agree to ensure the availability of contingency plans for emergencies (article IX).

Article (XVI) establishes A Regional Organization for the Conservation of the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden environment.

The United Nations Convention for the Bio-Diversity (1993): each contracting party shall, whenever needed, perform the following:

• Develop and establish a system for protected areas or for areas that require special considerations to conserve their bio-diversity

• Set up guidelines for defining and managing protected areas

• Organize and manage the most important biological resources for the purpose of the conservation of bio-diversity whether inside or outside the protected areas.

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TABLE 2-1 GLOBAL CONVENTIONS PROTECTING THE ENVIRONMENT

Conventions Ratified by Yemen Date of Ratification

United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) 14.01.1997

Framework Convention on Climate Change : FCCC (New York,1992) and Kyoto Protocol

21.02.1996 and 15.09.2004

Convention on Biological Diversity (Rio de Janeiro,1992) 21.02.1996

Convention on the Control of the Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and their Disposal (Basel, 1989)

21.02.1996

Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer (Montreal, 1987) 21.02.1996

Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer (Vienna, 1985) 21.02.1996

Protocol concerning Regional Cooperation of the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden Environment

20.8.1982

Regional Convention for the Conservation of the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden (PERSGA) (Jeddah, 1982)

20.8.1982

United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (Montego Bay, 1982) [UNCLOS]

10.12.1987

Protocol on Interference on High Seas in case of Marine Pollution with Substances other than Oil (London, 1973)

06.03.1979

Convention concerning the Protection of World Cultural and Natural Heritage (Paris, 1972)

7.10.1980

Agreement on Civil Responsibility of Marine Transport of Nuclear Materials (Brussels, 1971)

06.03.1979

Convention on Intervention on High Seas in case of Catastrophes of Oil Pollution (Brussels, 1969)

06.03.1979

Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (1960) 06.03.1979

Convention for the Prevention of Pollution of the Sea by Oil (1954) 06.03.1979

Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants POP’s (2004) 09.01.2004

.

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2.3. ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL POLICIES FOLLOWED BY YLNG

YLNG has carried out the work relating to this ESIA with regard to World Bank Group environmental and social guidelines. YLNG is also committed to complying with lender environmental and social guidelines applicable to the Project. The policies that will apply to the Project will be set out in an Environmental and Social Management Plan that will be included in the Project loan documentation.

The following list includes those policies and guidelines that may be deemed to apply to the development and operations phases of the Project and have been considered in the development of this ESIA.

• World Bank Operational Policy 4.01 “Environmental Assessment” (January 1999 revised August 2004)

• International Finance Corporation (“IFC”) Operational Policy 4.04 “Natural Habitats” (November 1998)

• IFC Operational Policy 7.50 “International Waterways” (November 1998)

• World Bank Operational Policy 4.12 and Bank Procedures 4.12 “Involuntary Resettlement” (December 2001)

• IFC Operational Policy Note 11.03 “Management of Cultural Property” (September 1986)

• World Bank Group General Environmental Guidelines (July 1998)

• World Bank Guidelines for Oil and Gas Development (Onshore) (July 1998)

• IFC Oil and Gas Development (Offshore) (December 2000)

• IFC Policy Statement on Forced Labour and Harmful Child Labour (March 1998)

• IFC Occupational Health and Safety Guidelines (June 2003)

• IFC Port and Harbor Facilities Guidelines (July 1998)

• IFC Hazardous Materials Management Guidelines (December 2001)

• IFC Waste Management Facilities Guidelines (July 1998)

• IFC Policy on Public Disclosure (September 1998)

• OPIC Environmental Handbook (February 2004)

YLNG has also adopted the Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights in the Project security policy. All security policies and procedures for the YLNG Project will comply in all material respects with the Universal Declaration on Human Rights, applicable international and national laws and the Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights.

All boats and LNG carriers involved in YLNG construction and operation will comply with MARPOL 73/78 Convention.

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2.4. ENVIRONMENTAL STANDARDS APPLICABLE TO THE PROJECT

In addition to the Environmental regulation of Yemen, the YLNG Project is committed to comply with environmental guidelines, standards and design criteria that have been developed specifically for the Project and are derived from World Bank standards (General Environmental Guidelines – Pollution Prevention and Abatement Handbook – World Bank Group – July 1998). These standards are related to the following aspects of the Project:

• Ambient Air Quality Standards (Table 2-2)

• Atmospheric Emission requirements (Table 2-3)

• Concentrations limits for the point of discharge into the sea (Table 2-4)

• Ambient Noise Level (Table 2-5).

TABLE 2-2 AMBIENT AIR QUALITY STANDARDS* ADOPTED FOR THE YLNG PROJECT

Pollutant Concentration Averaging period

150 µg/m3

100 µg/m3

Max 24-hour average

Maximum Annual Average Nitrogen Dioxide (as NO2) 100-150 µg/m3 (guidance

value) 24-hour average

40-60 µg/m3 (guidance value) Annual arithmetic mean

50 µg/m3

70 µg/m3

Annual average

24-hour average Sulfur Dioxide (SO2)

30 mg/m3

10 mg/m3

1 hour

8 hour

Particulates 110 µg/m3 (health protection) Max 8-hour average

Carbon monoxide (CO)

(WHO proposition) 2 mg/Nm3

* Ambient Air Conditions at Property Boundary

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TABLE 2-3 ATMOSPHERIC EMISSION REQUIREMENTS ADOPTED FOR THE YLNG PROJECT

Source Pollutant Stack emission limit

Liquid fossil fuel NOx Boilers: 250 mg/Nm3 max

NOx

Boilers: 200 mg/Nm3 max

Gas Turbines: 50* mg/Nm3 max

Process Heaters: 320 mg/Nm3 max

Gaseous fossil fuel

Particulates 50 mg/Nm3 * : According to the necessary reliability of the Power Generation System and the set points of the Gas turbines generators, an ongoing complementary study will precise if Reduced NOx emission burners can be installed. If not the emissions would be 125 mg/Nm 3 max

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TABLE 2-4 CONCENTRATIONS LIMITS FOR THE POINT OF DISCHARGE INTO THE SEA

Pollutant Maximum permitted concentration Maximum permitted daily load

pH 6-9 N/A

Total hydrocarbons 10 mg/l 100 kg/day

BOD5 50 mg/l 15 kg/day

COD 250 mg/l 50 kg/day

TSS 50 mg/l 15 kg/day

Phosphorus 2 mg/l 15 kg/day

N 60 mg/l 50 kg/day

Salinity max increase + 10%

Phenols 0.5 mg/l 1 g/day

Chlorinated organics 5 mg/l 30 g/day

Cr Hexavalent

Cr Total

0.1 mg/l

0.5 mg/l

1 g/day

free CN 0.1 mg/l 1 g/day

Pb 0.1 mg/l 5 g/day

Cu 0.5 mg/l 5 g/day

Ni 0.5 mg/l 5 g/day

Zn 2 mg/l 20 g/day

Mn 1 mg/l 10 g/day

Se 0.1 mg/l 10 g/day

Fe 3.5 mg/l 20 g/day

F 20 mg/l 150 g/day

As 0.1 mg/l 0.5 g/day

Cl 0.2 mg/l

Cd 0.1 mg/l 2 g/day

Hg 0.01 mg/l 0.5 g/day

Temperature* < 3°C above water temperature at 100 m from point of discharge

N/A

*Note: The results of the modeling of the extent of the thermal plume from the wastewater outfall are provided in the study report “3D Model Thermal study” prepared by SOGREAH dated November 2001- revised September 2005.

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TABLE 2-5 WORLD BANK CRITERIA FOR NOISE-SENSITIVE LAND USES

Land Use

Planning Limit,

Ldn (dBA)

Planning Limit,

Leq (dBA)

Residential 55 day

45 night

-

Commercial - 70

Industrial - 70

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CONTENTS

Section Page Number 3. PROJECT DESCRIPTION............................................................................................ 3-1

3.1. MAIN LINE – TRANSFER LINE ....................................................................................3-1 3.1.1. Project Overview .....................................................................................................3-1 3.1.1.1. Main Line.............................................................................................................3-1 3.1.1.2. Transfer Line .......................................................................................................3-2 3.1.1.3. KPU and CPU facilities .......................................................................................3-2 3.1.1.4. Gas Composition.................................................................................................3-3 3.1.2. Construction, Installation and Commissioning .......................................................3-3 3.1.2.1. Construction Activities .........................................................................................3-3 3.1.2.2. Commissioning Activities ....................................................................................3-4 3.1.2.3. Construction Camp.............................................................................................3-5 3.1.2.4. Specific Construction Techniques ......................................................................3-5 3.1.3. Pipelines Process Operations.................................................................................3-6 3.1.3.1. Maintenance........................................................................................................3-6 3.1.3.2. Control / Inspection .............................................................................................3-6 3.1.3.3. Logistics...............................................................................................................3-6 3.1.4. Decommissioning....................................................................................................3-6

3.2. BALHAF LNG PLANT....................................................................................................3-7 3.2.1. Project Overview .....................................................................................................3-7 3.2.2. Construction, Installation and Commissioning .......................................................3-8 3.2.2.1. LNG Process Unit and Utilities............................................................................3-8 3.2.2.2. Jetty and MOF Construction ...............................................................................3-9 3.2.2.3. Construction Camp...........................................................................................3-10 3.2.3. Process Operations...............................................................................................3-11 3.2.3.1. Flare systems....................................................................................................3-12 3.2.3.2. Liquid Burners and Tank Vents.........................................................................3-12 3.2.3.3. Water Intake and Water Systems.....................................................................3-13 3.2.3.4. Sewer and Wastewater Collection Systems.....................................................3-14 3.2.3.5. Wastewater Treatment Plant ............................................................................3-16 3.2.3.6. Utilities ...............................................................................................................3-17 3.2.3.7. Logistics.............................................................................................................3-18 3.2.3.8. Additional Facilities ...........................................................................................3-18 3.2.4. Decommissioning..................................................................................................3-19 3.2.5. Summary of Wastes and Emissions.....................................................................3-19 3.2.5.1. Atmospheric Emissions .....................................................................................3-19 3.2.5.2. Liquid Emissions ...............................................................................................3-23 3.2.5.3. Wastes...............................................................................................................3-24 3.2.5.4. Summary of Emissions and Waste...................................................................3-26 3.2.6. Indicative Schedule of the LNG Project................................................................3-26

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FIGURES

After page n°

Figure 3-1 Main Line Transfer Line Location Map 3-1

Figure 3-2 Main Line and Transfer Line Profiles 3-1

Figure 3-3 CPU and KPU Facilities in Marib 3-2

Figure 3-4 Pipeline Right-of-Way and Working Area 3-2

Figure 3-5 Main Line Construction Camps and stock piles locations

3-5

Figure 3-6 Balhaf LNG Plant and Camp Location Map 3-7

Figure 3-7 Aerial view of model of Balhaf LNG Plant 3-7

Figure 3-8 Jetty loading berths 3-8

Figure 3-9 Balhaf LNG Plant Overall Site Plot Plan 3-11

Figure 3-10 LNG Treatment Train Block Flow Diagram 3-11

Figure 3-11 Desalination Plant 3-13

Figure 3-12 LNG Plant Simplified Water Discharge Flow Diagram 3-14

Figure 3-13 Main and Transfer Lines – Project Schedule Bar Chart 3-26

Figure 3-14 Level 1 Overall Project Bar Chart Schedule 3-26

TABLES

Table 3-1 Gas composition

Table 3-2 LNG plant feed gas composition


Table 3-4 Water consumptions

Table 3-5 Sanitary treatment plant standards for discharge






Table 3-11 LNG plant waste streams


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3. PROJECT DESCRIPTION NOTE: The project description presented here is based on the most recent available design data. This data is subject to further development and the ESIA will be updated as and when required to reflect the updated information.

3.1. MAIN LINE – TRANSFER LINE 3.1.1. Project Overview The YLNG Project comprises connection to the existing oil and gas production facilities of the Marib fields in the block 18, to extract the required gas to feed the projected LNG plant to be located in Balhaf on the Gulf of Aden. Another pipeline, the Spur Line which will connect Ma’bar is not yet fully defined and will be addressed in a separate ESIA. The present ESIA concerns the following two pipelines:

• The Main Line will supply the LNG plant with gas from the Kamil Processing Unit (KPU) located in Marib Province, Yemen to the Balhaf LNG plant;

• The bi-directional Transfer Line will link the KPU and the Central Processing Unit (CPU) at Alif.

Figure 3-1 shows the location of the pipelines and Figure 3-2 shows the profiles of the Main Line and Transfer Line respectively.

3.1.1.1. Main Line

The Main Line will consist of a 325 km long, 930.4 mm constant internal diameter, hereafter referred to as 38-inch diameter pipeline, starting from KPU to Balhaf site. The design flow capacity is 1,280 MMSCFD. This system could eventually be expanded to approximately 1,600 MMSCFD.

The Main Line will take a sidestream off the gas reinjection header from KPU and let the pressure down for transport to Balhaf through the pipeline.

The Main Line starts at Kilometric Point 0 (KP 0) from the KPU, at an elevation of 960 m. The pipeline route travels south-east through the sand dunes and across a flat desert plain for about 134 km, and then ascends to a plateau at an elevation of approximately 1,420 m. On the plateau, the route gradually climbs over a distance of 64 km to an elevation of 1,720 m, before descending to Wadi Salmun. The route then avoids the wadi by taking an east turn. Then it travels across the generally flat coastal desert plain gradually descending to 260 m before reaching the coastal sand dunes and Balhaf at KP 320.

The pipeline (API 5LX70 steel grade) will be buried. The design pressure is between 117 barg and 134.5 barg depending on the location. The pipeline predominantly qualifies as ANSI Class 1 design, with Class 2 design in the last 23 km of the Main Line (Balhaf side) and in the CPU-KPU vicinity, since most of the pipeline route stays well clear of all dwellings. The pipeline route generally remains at least 200 m from any dwellings for safety reasons. To achieve this requirement in the coastal plain to Balhaf, additional relocation has been planned to stay away from the new dwellings and agriculture that have developed in the area

DUNE FIELD

FLAT DESERT

PLATEAU

COASTAL PLAIN

GULF OF ADEN

15°

15°30'

46°30'46° 47°30'

N

47°

46°30'46°

15°

15°30'

0 10 20 30 km

SCALE 1/750,000

5

48°

14°

14°30'

47°30' 48°

14°30'

MAIN LINE - TRANSFER LINE LOCATION MAP


YEMEN

YLNG

Title

Location

Client

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Ref.

See barscale

LYO

February 2006

JLL

43683552 Figure 3-1

Format

A3

BIR'ALI

BALHÃF

JEBEL AD DAHLA

KPU

CPUT ANS ER INE

RF L

MAIN LINE

WADI M

HYIDA

AD

WI

SA

H

A

WA

DI R

AF

D

WS

AL

MO

NA

DI

O

IWAD

AM

YFA'AH

SHI ' BAYN

D

WA

I JIRDAN

LEGEND

PIPELINE PREFERRED ROUTE/KILOMETRIC POINT (KP)160

160

150

140

130

120

110

100

90

80

70

60

50

40

30

20

10

260

250

240

230

220210

200

180170

190

10

20

290280

270

300

290

310

320

TRANSFER LINE

MAIN LINE

Title

Location

Client


MAIN LIGNE - TRANSFER LINE PROFILE

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Ref.

See barscale

LYO

February 2006

JLL

43683552 Figure 3-2

Format

A4

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since the performance of the 1997 baseline survey. The current design with two trains at Balhaf plant does not comprise an intermediate compressor station at the foot of the plateau.

The right of way (ROW) for the pipelines will be typically 17 m to 30 m in width depending on the area (Figure 3-4).

Sectional valves will allow the Main Line to be isolated by section.

3.1.1.2. Transfer Line

The transfer Line will connect KPU to CPU. It will consist of a 25 km long, 30-inch diameter pipeline, which will be constructed parallel to two other existing 12” and 6“ diameter pipelines of Yemen HOC (YHOC). The Transfer Line is located in a flat desert region of low sand dunes approximately 75 km northeast of the City of Marib between KPU and CPU. It will be buried.

3.1.1.3. KPU and CPU facilities

The existing gas processing plants in the Marib area (Figure 3-3), which have been in operation for about 12 years, extract pentanes and heavier for export, LPG for domestic consumption, and return the residue gas for re-injection into the oil fields. They are concentrated in two main gas processing facilities at Alif (CPU) and Kamil (KPU), located 22 kilometers apart:

• The KPU facility comprises two 420 MMCFD cryogenic gas plants and four compressor trains which process over 1 billon cubic feet of gas per day. At KPU facilities, gas is compressed to 220 bar and cooled to a maximum of 15ºC above ambient temperature or 60°C maximum for re-injection into the field.

• The CPU facilities include two cryogenic plants: a 500 MMCFD lean oil plant and a 420 MMCFD cryogenic plant, with their six re-injection compressors, which process over 1.2 billon cubic feet of gas per day.

For the YLNG Project, the following upgrade will be implemented, in compliance with the World Bank standards, at these two facilities:

To ensure adequate LNG feed gas supply, the three existing cryogenic plants will be utilized with minor modifications, and one new additional cryogenic plant will be constructed, as the lean oil plant at the CPU cannot supply gas to the required specification. The new CPU cryogenic plant will be designed to process 420 MMSCFD. New compression and power generation facilities will also be part of these new facilities.

Modifications to existing plants will include flow control / pressure letdown stations from the compressors, vent stacks to handle blowdown and PSV discharge gases, in addition to the necessary tie-ins to the 30” transfer line between CPU and KPU and to the 38” feed gas pipeline to Balhaf.

The combination of these four gas treatment plants will provide sufficient feed gas availability to the LNG plant, three plants being normally needed to meet the peak flow rate requirement.

The design of the upstream facility expansion and upgrade related to the YLNG Project (CPU-KPU) is currently in the conceptual stage. Preliminary and final design phases have not yet begun. Accordingly, details regarding the construction and operation of upstream facilities related to the YLNG Project are not yet available

Title

Location

Client

CPU AND FACILITIES IN MARIBKPU

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG


App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Ref.

See barscale

LYO

February 2006

JLL

43683552 Figure 3-3

Format

A4

CPU

KPU

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG


PIPELINE RIGHT-OF-WAYAND WORKING AREA

1

1.5

ORIGINAL GRADE

L PIPEc

L DITCHc

4.50 m min.WORKING AREA

(AS REQUIRED FOR CONSTRUCTION) (AS REQUIRED FORCONSTRUCTION)

3.00 m min.

CLE

AR

ING

/GR

AD

ING

LIM

IT

CLE

AR

ING

/GR

AD

ING

LIM

IT

L PIPEc

L DITCHc

CLE

AR

ING

/GR

AD

ING

LIM

IT

CLE

AR

ING

/GR

AD

ING

LIM

IT

20.00 m10.00 m

DITCH SPOIL

SIGN

MAINTENANCEROAD

BACKFILL(<100 mm)

0.30 m

RIGHT-OF-WAY ON SIDE HILL CUT

STANDARD RIGHT-OF-WAY

RIGHT-OF-WAY AFTER BACKFILL

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Ref.

No barscale

LYO

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Format

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3.1.1.4. Gas Composition

The gas composition in the Main Line, which feeds the LNG plant, can be summarized in Table 3-1 as follows:

Table 3-1 Gas composition Dry Concentration (mole %)

Composition Very Lean Case Rich Case1.

Nitrogen 0.09 0.175

Methane 93.22 89.893

Ethane 5.09 5.204

Propane 1.22 3.088

i-Butane 0.08 0.452

n-Butane 0.11 0.819

n-Pentane 0.01 0.036

i-Pentane 0.01 0.034

Dimethyl-pentane - 0.008

Trimethyl-pentane - 0.003

n-Hexane - 0.008

n-Heptane - 0.027

Carbon dioxide 0.17 0.253 1. The gas composition for the rich case was used as the basis for this ESIA report. These values only relate to this ESIA report.

3.1.2. Construction, Installation and Commissioning

3.1.2.1. Construction Activities

Construction will use standard cut-and-fill techniques for most of the pipeline length (Figure 3-4). The construction activities outlined below are indicative only and typical for pipelines, and include seven major activities:

• Clearing and grading: it involves removing bushes, trees and any other obstructions from the pipeline ROW and grading the ground surface as much as practical to reduce the need for bends in the pipe; bulldozers and graders are typically used;

• Stringing and bending: the joints, with a single joint length of approximately 12 m, will be placed end to end along the open trench by side-boom tractors; a bending crew will place cold bends in the pipe using other side-booms and bending machines;

• Line-up and welding: the line up crew fits joints of pipe together using either an internal or external alignment clamp and applies the initial weld called the

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stringer or root weld, thanks to side-booms and tack rig tractors; welds are complete by individual welding rigs;

• Trenching: the main sections of the pipe trench are typically excavated using either trenching machines, backhoes or excavators, or combinations of both;

• Tie-in and lowering in: long sections of welded pipe are welded together (tied in) and lowered into the trench with side-booms or backhoes; then instrumentation controls (fiber optic cable) will be positioned in the pipeline trench or in adjacent trench;

• Backfill and cleanup: if the remaining trench spoil is free of large rocks, it will be placed back directly over the pipe, otherwise, fine material such as sand or sifted earth will be placed over the pipe to a shallow depth; the trench will then be filled to existing ground level with the excavated spoil and infill materials; any excess spoil will remain along the pipeline within the limits of the ROW; the trench is backfilled to an approximate depth of 1 m to the top of the pipe;

• Clean-up and restoration: the ROW and temporary work spaces will be cleaned-up as soon as the pipe is laid and backfilled; all debris, scrap and other waste material will be collected and properly disposed of or eliminated according to construction contractor procedures approved by YLNG (landfill or incineration, depending on the waste characteristics) ; rock will not be windrowed or distributed along the ROW in areas where topsoil replacement has occurred; where the line runs through permanently irrigated and cultivated land, the trench backfill shall be appropriately compacted so as to permit normal irrigation and cultivation.

3.1.2.2. Commissioning Activities

After backfill and clean-up, the pipe will be hydrostatically pressure-tested by sections and commissioned at the end of the construction.

Each pipeline section will be filled with water. The origin of the water, sourced from three or four deep wells located along the pipeline route, will be in accordance with groundwater protection regulation in Yemen. To prevent corrosion, the water will be treated with a number of chemicals including biocides, oxygen scavengers and corrosion inhibitors. Chlorine will be at a concentration lower than 50 ppm in all cases. These chemicals will be generally selected for their effectiveness and low toxicity, and will be biodegradable.

For the hydrotest, water will be brought to the specified test pressure and be held at this pressure for a specified period of 24 hours. During this period, pressure and temperature of the water inside the pipeline are measured at regular intervals. Hydrostatic test water will be recycled between test sections to minimize the quantity of water required. The volume of water required for each test section is estimated to be approximately 20 000 m3 (the exact amount of water required for the test is still under assessment). However, the total volume required for the pipeline hydrostatic testing is expected to be at least 40 000 m3 (20 000 m3 for Main line and 20 000 m3 for Transfer Line). The hydrostatic test water discharge location is not decided yet and needs to be detailed in specific studies. However, it is expected that the hydrostatic test water may be discharged into lined evaporation ponds located along the pipeline route.

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After the hydrostatic test of the pipe, scrapping operations will be done to remove rust deposit and potential solid wastes left in the pipe. These wastes will be recovered in Balhaf LNG plant and will be disposed of or eliminated according to construction contractor procedures approved by YLNG (landfill or incineration, depending on the waste characteristics).

3.1.2.3. Construction Camp

Two camps will be installed for the construction of the pipelines: one at KP 110 at the end of the desert area and one at KP 283 in the coastal plain (Figure 3-5). The camps will also have an equipment and pipe yard. There will be three other intermediate pipe yards (KP 0 at KPU, KP 70 in the desert, KP 240 in the upper coastal plain and along the pipeline route. These pipe yards will be guarded. The overall size of each camp is expected to be approximately 250 x 350 m in width but will vary depending on terrain conditions.

The work force will vary depending on the different activities involved at each construction step. The camps will be designed for a maximum capacity of 1,000 persons for durations of 4 to 6 months at each camp location. The Main Line and Transfer Line installation is expected to last approximately 2 years.

All camps will be equipped to satisfy adequate sanitary and waste treatment, depending of the number of people involved. Treated wastewater may be reused for dust control and garden watering. The sewage sludge will be dried, stabilized for appropriate disposal.

3.1.2.4. Specific Construction Techniques Special construction techniques will be required for some areas, including the following:

• Construction of pipeline in large dunes: The sand will be cleared over a width of 33 m and piled on each side of the ROW. The trench will have a width of 15 m at the top and 7 m at the bottom depth of 2 m;

• Ascent and descent of the plateau: The ROW width will be reduced to approximately 17 m and the trench width will be 10 m. The ROW on the ascent and descent of the plateau will be used for equipment and supply transport to the plateau. For slopes greater than 25° the equipment will be secured by a winch cable. These accesses to the plateau will be maintained at the end of the construction for pipeline maintenance operations;

• Shallow wadi crossings: standard trenching will be used in construction with concrete coating of the pipe for additional stability and minimum cover of 1.70 m;

• Blasting: the trench will be excavated in hard rock using drilling and blasting; • Topsoil Separation: in agricultural and pasture land the topsoil will be saved

and stockpiled separately from the subsoil; after pipe laying, topsoil will be replaced as the upper surface of the ROW;

• Minimum Cover: the normal ditch will normally be excavated to provide a minimum cover of 1 m; however, certain soil or terrain conditions would require depths of cover as follows:

0 25 50 75 100 Km

Existing camp usedfor mobilisation

BVS13

PK300

PK250

PK200

BVS12

BVS11

BVS09

BVS08

PK150

PK140

Main camp and stockpileKP110

PK100

BVS07

BVS05

Existing camp usedfor mobilisation

BVS04

BVS03

PK50

BVS02KPU

ESDV0201

Existing temporary campfor overnight stayand stockpile KP0

CPU

PK0PK10

PK20PK0

Main camp and stockpileKP283

ESDV0101

PK320

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG


PIPELINE CONSTRUCTION CAMPS AND STOCK PILES LOCATION MAP

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

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Ref.

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- consolidated rock: 0.60 m;

- agricultural land: 1.20 m; - wadi crossing: 1.70 m.

3.1.3. Pipelines Process Operations

The pipelines will be operated dry, i.e. free of liquid hydrocarbons and water.

Operational activities will mainly consist of pipeline scraper trapping and monitoring. A maintenance track will follow the pipeline ROW.

3.1.3.1. Maintenance

Scraper traps will be constructed at both ends of the Transfer Line and Main Line to allow scraping operations for cleaning and inspection. The scraper will be sent from KPU to Balhaf.

Corrosion protection will be provided by 3 layers of polyethylene coating plus an impressed current cathodic protection system using thermoelectric generators.

3.1.3.2. Control / Inspection The pipeline will be regularly inspected and the process monitored. This will take several forms, as described below:

• Pipeline pressure, flow rate and block valves will be continuously monitored by a Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition (SCADA) system from a Central Control Room in the LNG plant. Block valves are located approximately every 32 km along the pipeline. Joints and gaskets which could initiate leaks are limited to block valves. The rest of the pipeline is welded and pressure tested. A fiber optic cable will be installed in parallel with the pipeline for communication links;

• Control and maintenance patrols will drive regularly the route of the pipeline using the access road adjacent to the pipeline; this will check for third party surface disturbance or other potential activities or risks to pipeline integrity.

3.1.3.3. Logistics

During operation of the pipeline, only monitoring and maintenance personnel are required. They will be based at the permanent camps in Balhaf and CPU/KPU.

3.1.4. Decommissioning

At the end of the lifetime of the Project, the pipeline will be decommissioned. After flushing the pipeline will be left in place, appropriately sealed and identified.

Above ground structures such as wadi crossing, sectional valves, detection and data transmission will be dismantled and removed.

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3.2. BALHAF LNG PLANT 3.2.1. Project Overview

The LNG plant will process natural gas transported via pipeline from the KPU facility. The site is located near Balhaf on the south coast of Yemen, approximately 140 km west of the port city of Al Mukalla and 380 km east of Aden. Coordinates are as follows: 13°59’00” N, 48°10’50” E.

The 1 km2 LNG plant included in about 10 km2 fenced site is located in an area of extinct volcanic craters and basalt flows to the east and a sandy coastal plain to the west. Two isolated hills known as Black Barn and North Rock lie immediately to the north-west of the site. A location plan of the site and ancillary facilities and camps is presented in Figure 3-6. An aerial photograph of a scale model of the LNG plant and MOF is shown on Figure 3-7.

The LNG plant will comprise two processing trains of 3.45 Million Ton per annum (Mtpa) each, thus a design production capacity of 6.9 Mtpa. In the initial phase, the facilities will be delivering a guaranteed capacity of 6.7 Mtpa of LNG. Finished product will be stored and then shipped out by sea in 135,000 m3 average LNG carriers every 3 or 4 days.

The quality of the LNG plant feed gas is presented in the following Table 3-2:

Table 3-2 LNG plant feed gas composition Dry Concentration (mole %)

Composition Very Lean Case

Rich Case

Nitrogen 0.09 0.175

Methane 93.22 89.893

Ethane 5.09 5.204

Propane 1.22 3.088

i-Butane 0.08 0.452

n-Butane 0.11 0.819

n-Pentane 0.01 0.036

i-Pentane 0.01 0.034

Dimethyl-pentane - 0.008

Trimethyl-pentane - 0.003

n-Hexane - 0.008

n-Heptane - 0.027

Carbon dioxide 0.17 0.253

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG


BALHAF LNG PLANT AND CAMP LOCATION MAP

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HOUSES VILLAGE

VILLAGE

VILLAGE VILLAGE

WADI

AW DI

WDA I

WADI

DIWA

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VOLCANO

OUTFALL

PERIMETERFENCE

BASALT ROCK

VOLCANO

BEACH

BEACH

VOLCANOES

VOLCANO

VILLAGE

VILLAGE

LOW

SAND

DUNES

PETROL PUMPHOTELRESTAURANT/SHOPMOSQUE

ACCESSROAD

ARMY CHECK POINT

ACCES TO AIR STRIP

SAND BEACH

FLATSAND PLAIN

PIPELIGNE FROM KPU

CONSTRUCTIONCAMP AREA

OPEN CRATER

ARMY POSITIONS

LNSTRICTED RE

Y G RE

AA

ROAD ADEN TO MUKKALA

ROCK SHORE

LNG PLANTSee Figure 3.7

VOLCANO

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E

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YLNG RSTRI

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CONSTRUCTIONFACILITIES AREA

VOLCANO

VOLCANO

SAND BEACH

FLAT PLAIN

SAND DUNES

BASALT ROCK

VOLCANOES

LEGEND:

I

AR

STRIP

Aerial view of Balhaf site (Baseline Survey, 1997)

Aerial view of model Showing future LNG plant

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG


AERIAL VIEW OF MODEL OF BALHAF LNG PLANT

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The Project will include the following principal components:

• Feed pipeline (Main Line described in Section 3.1);

• LNG plant and ancillary facilities;

• Jetty for LNG Carriers loading and shipping (Figure 3-8);

• MOF for tug boat mooring;

• Administrative facilities;

• An air strip;

• A construction camp;

• A permanent camp.

3.2.2. Construction, Installation and Commissioning

The LNG plant will require the construction of numerous facilities; the description of the main construction activities is described for the following operations:

• LNG process units, utilities and additional facilities (air strip, other);

• Jetty and Material Offloading Facility (MOF);

• Construction camp.

3.2.2.1. LNG Process Unit and Utilities

Construction will occur in several phases, including site preparation activities, earth moving and grading, establishment of temporary works, and construction and installation of process units and other facilities.

Site Preparation, Earth Moving, Grading and Temporary Works The site will be constructed in an undeveloped area with the exception of several uninhabited houses at Balhaf. Site preparation will result in demolition of the uninhabited houses as well as moving significant quantities of soil and rock. Blasting will also be required in areas where basalt rock must be removed to achieve projected grades. Process units, structures and utilities will be supported on concrete slabs. The concrete will be mixed at concrete batching plants on site and delivered to the foundations in trucks.

Earth moving will be performed with conventional equipment such as scrapers, graders, bulldozers, dump trucks, and backhoes.

Construction and Installation of Process Units Many of the process units and other components will be fabricated off-site at vendor’s shops and delivered to the site for installation. Other equipment such as piping, instruments and conduit will be partially assembled in sections prior to delivery to the site. Steel structures used to support the process unit piping and other components will be assembled on-site using prefabricated structural members supplied to the plant by off-site vendors. In addition to the process and utility units, administrative buildings, service building, warehouses, repair and maintenance shops will be constructed.

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG


JETTY LOADING BERTHS

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Hydrostatic Testing Sea water will be used for hydrostatic testing of the tanks (approximately 145,000 m3 of water). The other equipment and lines may be hydrotested using desalinized water.

The hydrotest water will be transferred from one piece of equipment to another to minimize the quantity of water to be discharged after the test. The hydrostatic test water will be either re-used or be discharged to the sea after quality control through the water outfall. However, detailed hydrotest water handling is still under assessment.

3.2.2.2. Jetty and MOF Construction

Jetty The loading jetty head and jetty trestle will be constructed based on the international codes and standards (refer to section 2.3) already included in the Project Design. The jetty consists of the following construction activities (Figure 3-8):

• Piles construction;

• Driving and drilling (if on rock) for piles to support the deck and mooring appurtenances;

• Erection of steelwork frame and concrete slab deck;

• Laying of pipelines for loading;

• Installation of loading arms and support facilities (control room, etc.);

• Additional foundations or pile clusters at intervals along the jetty to protect it from lateral LNG carriers loads and provide mooring structures.

After foundation construction (piles), skeletal steel framework is erected and discontinuous reinforced concrete slabs installed. Steel work sections are fabricated off-site, transported to the site, lifted into place using cranes, and welded and bolted together. The pipelines will be assembled on-site using pre-fabricated pipe sections.

MOF The MOF facility will be constructed for material unloading only and will not function as a harbour. The wharf will be constructed as a concrete paved area, laid on top of rock fill and basalt blocks (from blasting and excavation). Construction will typically consist of the following general steps:

• Dredging (see below);

• Placement of rock fill, obtained partly from general site levelling;

• Driving of pile clusters to protect the MOF and provide mooring for off loading ships;

• Pouring in place of concrete slabs;

• Placement of precast concrete type Accropodes along the sea side of the wharf.

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Dredging Dredging requirement for the MOF construction will be minimized. It may include the removal and relocation of bottom sediments to increase the depth of the navigable water. Dredging will be carried out to a depth of 8.5 m below LAT (lowest astronomical tide) over a surface of roughly 10 000 m2 in the area of the main off-loading dock and in the tug wharf area. Approximate volume to be dredged is estimated about 5 000 m3 (to be confirmed during the detailed engineering phase).

Dredging will also be required for the trenches of the sea water intake pipe and of the water outfall pipe.

The material to be dredged is expected to be some marine sand on top of basalt rock, and therefore may require rock excavation means.

Dredged materials will be disposed in the sea in a dedicated area at depth of 150 m, selected to avoid possible future redeposit in sensitive zones. Further investigation is still in process for the exact location of the dredged material disposal area.

Sea water intake The construction activities associated with the installation of the sea water intake pipe include:

• Dredging of a trench (see above);

• Grab trimming of the trench bottom;

• Welding of pipe sections into 36 m long sections on the pipework crane barge;

• Installation of pipe sections and in-situ connection of pipe sections;

• Backfilling of trench with excavated and dredged materials;

• Placing of armoured rock on top of the backfill materials;

• Connection of the intake pipes into the onshore pumping pit structure;

• Shore protection reinstated over the completed pipelines.

Water outfall The construction activities associated with the water outfall are the same basic procedures as those outlined above for the sea water intake. The laying of the pipelines will commence at the onshore outfall chamber and the water discharge outfall will extend 680 m from shore and 20 m depth into the Gulf of Aden.

3.2.2.3. Construction Camp

The total workforce required for construction of the LNG plant and associated facilities will vary depending on the construction phase. The first pioneer’s camp of 100 people will grow to a Construction Camp with an estimated peak of 7,000 to 10,000 workers. The duration of construction is estimated to be approximately 32 months. The approximate surface of the construction camp and construction facility area will be approximately 800, 000 m2.

During construction, trucks will transport concrete, steelwork, piping and other materials to the site.

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The construction camp will be arranged to satisfy adequate sanitary and waste treatment. Utilities will be provided by temporary equipments, such as:

• Diesel engine generators for electrical power supply;

• Temporary desalination units for potable water supply and fire water demand;

• Sewage effluent from the construction camp will be treated through a treatment plant using activated sludge with a capacity of 2000 m3/d and the treated wastewater may be reused for dust control and garden watering. A part of these equipments will be left and retained to serve for disposal of excess treated water from the permanent sewage treatment unit (see 3.2.3.5)

• Domestic waste incinerator and landfill;

• Telecommunications;

• Fire and gas detection.

3.2.3. Process Operations

The LNG plant will be designed as two parallel treatment trains operating as an average 335 days per year. Figure 3-9 presents an overall site plot plan and Figure 3-10 presents a block diagram of the LNG treatment train. The treatment process includes the following principal process steps:

Reception facilities: receive the gas feed from the pipeline, ensure a coarse filtration before distribution and control its pressure at the LNG trains inlet.

Pretreatment of acid gas removal (carbon dioxide, less than 0.6%): absorption using activated methyldiethanol amine (MDEA) as the sour gas passes through the amine column, carbonates and bicarbonates are formed.

Water wash: removal of residual amines.

Drying: reduction of water content to less than 1 ppm for cryogenic liquefaction.

Mercury removal with sulfur-impregnated carbon bed unit: this unit is designed for the removal of 50 nanograms/Nm3 of mercury to less than 10 nanograms/Nm3; the bed will be removed and replaced every few years, as required. However, no mercury is expected.

Feed gas precooling is achieved through propane evaporators with a scub column, to enable heavies/aromatics removal and liquid separation to extract ethane and propane required for refrigerant make-up. The heavy products are disposed of as liquid fuel in the steam boilers; each fractionation unit (one per train) comprises three distillation columns (deethaniser, depropaniser, debutaniser) and a re-injection/recycle system into LNG.

Liquefaction of products: the liquefaction unit will be based on the APCI process, the most widely used, which will supply the Main Cryogenic Heat Exchangers (MCHE);

Refrigeration: it is based on the use of two gas turbines drivers for each train. The refrigeration system consists of two refrigerant loops:

• The propane refrigeration loop based on a three pressure levels system;

• Mixed Refrigerant (MR) compression loop is achieved in a three casing design: the Low Pressure (LP) MR compressor, the Medium Pressure (MP) MR compressor and the High Pressure (HP) MR compressor.

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG


BALHAF LNG PLANT OVERALL SITE PLOT PLAN

70 m 60 m 50 m 40 m 30 m

60 m

50 m

40 m

30 m

20 m

10 m

5 m

70 m

10 m

20 m

14°00'00" N

1549000 N

1548000 N

194

00

0E

48°1

0'0

0"

E

195

00

0E

1 547 000 N

48°1

1'0

0"

E

196

00

0E

1550000 N

0

SCALE

100 200 300 400 500 m

N

NORT

H

150100

50

CALM362

SUP TO 9 BFTS

7 & 8 BFTS5 & 6 BFTS3 & 4 BFTS1 & 2 BFTS

CIRCLES NUMBERS OF OBSERVATIONS PER THOUSAND(NOT TO SCALE)

25.0 m

12.5 m

D=

750M

UTILITIES

EFFLUENTTREATMENT

ADMINISTRATIONBUILDING

TRAIN 2

TRAIN 1

WATEROUTFALL

CAP RAS AL ASID

SANDBEACH

TURNINGCIRCLE FOR

GENERAL CARGO

TURNINGBASIN

LNG CARRIER

LIQUIDSBURNER

PIP

ELIN

EFR

OM

KPU

PLANT FENCE

BASALTROCK

LAGOON

BEACH

FLATPLA

IN

GULF OF ADEN

LOWSAND

DUNES

BOIL OFF

ACCESS ROAD

L N GPLANT

TURNINGBASIN

LNG JETTY

LNGSTORAGE

SEA WATERINTAKE

WORKSHOPWAREHOUSE

TO WATEROUTFALL

PO

WE

RG

EN

.

FIRE TRAININGAREA

SEA WATERPUMP

ENTRANCE

WHARF

RECEIVINGAREA

FLARE

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YEMEN

YEMEN LNG


LNG TREATMENT TRAINBLOCK FLOW DIAGRAM

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Storage: finished LNG product will be stored in two cryogenic storage tanks (140,000 m3 each) at a temperature of -162°C; these are above ground full containment tanks with a concrete shell and free standing inner tank.

LNG loading: into LNG carriers moored 900 m from shore via a pipe jetty; re-circulation, vapour return and boil-off lines will be provided.

The cryogenic storage Tanks and LNG Terminal will be built following Standards and Rules from BSI, API,ASTM,AWS (American Welding Society),DOT, AISI, FIP, ASME and SIGTTO (Society of International Gas Tankers and Terminals Operators).

3.2.3.1. Flare systems

Relief valve gases and vent gases will be collected and sent to the flare system with normally no flow except purging of the headers for safety reasons. The flare system to be installed is described in the table below. Pilot gas isolation valving and the ignition panel will be located far from the flares; the system will be maintained in positive pressure to prevent ingress of air and the resulting risk of explosion.

The loading LNG system will be connected to a dedicated marine flare (normally no flow).


Flare Design flow (kg/hr)

Estimated flow (kg/hr)

1 marine flare, 96,806 40,081

1 wet flare (continuous) 650,000 243,000

1 high pressure dry flare (discontinuous)

1,840,000 1,000,000

1 low pressure dry flare 980,000 260,000

1 spare flare - backup for low pressure dry flare or wet flare

1,840,000 not applicable

3.2.3.2. Liquid Burners and Tank Vents

Two liquid burners will be provided for emergency disposal of waste oils, oily liquids, and start-up “off-specs” product:

• One wet liquid burner – design flow rate of 12,000 kg/h, water content: 5 to 100%;

• One dry liquid burner – design flow rate of 160,000 kg/h (at start-up).

However, waste lube oil and oily liquid waste will be burnt in an incinerator to make up the calorific values of wet domestic wastes.

Most of the major tank vents will be sent to flares. Some miscellaneous tank vents not included in the flare system will generate minor emissions. This includes 2 x 150 m3 diesel fuel tanks for the emergency generator.

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It should be noted that the tank for the liquid fuel system used to feed the steam boilers will be vented to the flare system.

3.2.3.3. Water Intake and Water Systems Seawater Intake

Sea water will be pumped for different processes of the plant. Water consumption by process can be summarized as follow:

Table 3-4 Water consumptions Process Water consumption

m3/h

Process trains 60,000 primarily for single pass cooling-off

Boiler plant 7

Electro-chlorination 130 (described below)

Desalination plant 1,200 (described below)

Screened marine life debris will be collected in a removable basket from the rotating band screen.

Electrochlorination

Sodium hypochlorite will be produced electrolytically for sanitary use (50 g/h as Cl2) and for the cooling water system (190 kg/h as Cl2).

Desalination and Potable Water System

The flow diagram of the desalination plant is shown on Figure 3-11. Sea water will be pumped for treatment in desalinization units to produce fresh water. Desalinization will be conducted using a thermo-compression unit. The unit itself will be heated by steam.

The units will produce a total of 58 t/h of desalinated water and discharge 550 t/h of mixture of brine and sea water to the sea. Prior to discharge, this brine will be mixed with effluent from other treatment processes as well as cooling water.

The following additives will be incorporated into the process:

• Dechlorination agent - added to raw sea water prior to the thermo compression unit;

• Anti-scale and anti-foam agents - added to treated water;

• Acid cleaning - for periodic cleaning of the unit.

Treated water will flow into two separate storage systems, each consisting of two storage tanks:

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Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG


DESALINATION PLANT

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• Potable water tanks (sodium bicarbonate and calcium chloride are added): 38.6 t/h broken down as follows:

- 35 t/h is pretreated for Plant and Camp potable use (chlorination, with hypochlorite generated by the electro-chlorination unit);

- 2.5 t/h service water;

- 1.1 t/h fire water (biocide and corrosion inhibitor added).

• Other tanks:

- 22 m3/h boiler feed;

- 1 m3/h periodic turbine cleaning water and amine wash unit make up, pretreated using activated carbon and mixed bed ion exchange.

3.2.3.4. Sewer and Wastewater Collection Systems

In order to achieve an economical, functional and reliable drainage and primary water treatment facility for the LNG complex, incorporating proper segregation and controlled discharge of effluents and cooling water, the following systems have been developed:

• Non-contaminated sewer system (NW);

• Oily water sewer system (OW);

• Chemical sewer system (CW);

• Amine drainage system (DA);

• Domestic sewer system (DW);

• Brine system (desalinization);

• Cooling water discharge system;

• Peripheral rain water ditches.

A simplified diagram of the water discharges is shown on Figure 3-12.

At each outlet of the sewer and wastewater treatment, a sampling facility and volumetric device will be installed to ensure that the effluent quality is met before discharge to the sea through the outfall.

Non-Contaminated Sewer System (NW) This system will consist of open ditches and will collect:

• Rain water run off from all plant areas (except contained areas);

• Fire fighting water run off from all plant areas (except contained areas);

• Non-contaminated process waste effluent from process and utilities areas.

The non-contaminated sewer with sealed inlets will be discharged by gravity into the sea via an observation pit. However, for process areas where liquid hydrocarbon leaks could occur, the areas will be drained separately and connected to independent impoundment basins.

The system is designed to handle flows of up to 1,000 m3/hour, but under normal conditions, flows are expected to be between 0 and 100 m3/hour.

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG


LNG PLANT SIMPLIFIED WATER DISCHARGE FLOW DIAGRAM

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Oily Water Sewer System (OW) This system will collect wastewater which is continuously oil contaminated or accidentally contaminated through spillage during normal operations. This includes the following:

• Purges and drains from equipment in process and utilities areas;

• Lubricating oil spillage from areas such as pump plinths;

• Accidental spillage associated with specific equipment (contained areas);

• Accidental spillage from the diesel discharge station;

• The liquid fuel tanks retention basin (in case of spillage);

• This system will also collect rainwater runoff, firewater or washdown from contained areas in process and utilities areas.

The collected oily wastewater will be routed via a weir box to the oily Corrugated Plate Interceptor (CPI) separator. It will consist of gravity separation using a corrugated plate interceptor. Oily surface layer will flow from the CPI to a holding basin then be pumped periodically and will be burned in an incinerator. Flows are not expected to exceed 2 tons/hr. Sludge will be collected in a sump for periodic removal by vacuum truck for proper disposal.

Collected water (prior to treatment) is expected in normal conditions to contain a maximum of 100 mg/l of suspended solids (maximum of 500 mg/l of oil), with an expected flow of 10 m3/h (possible increase to 60 m3/h in the event of a fire). If the oily water flow exceeds 15 m3/h, the additional flow will spill over the weir into a holding basin, which allows water to be inspected, tested and treated further, if required, prior to discharge to the sea.

Treated effluents from the oily sewer system will be mixed with treated effluent from the chemical and domestic sewer systems and with cooling water, prior to being discharged to the sea in accordance with the appropriate water quality discharge requirements (see Section 3.2.5.2).

Chemical Sewer Systems (CW) Chemical effluents will be collected from:

• Acid cleaning effluents from desalination and electro-chlorination plants;

• Chemicals from:

- specific equipment drains in process and utilities areas;

- rainwater run off, firewater and washdown in contained areas around specific equipment in process and utilities areas;

- laboratory waste.

Average flow rate is expected to be 0.5 m3/h (possible peaks of 4 m3/h). The collected effluent will flow into one of two neutralization sumps. Neutralization will be conducted automatically using caustic soda and/or hydrochloric acid.

Treated effluents from the chemical sewer system will be mixed with treated effluent from the oily and domestic sewer systems and with cooling water prior to being discharged to the sea in accordance with the appropriate water quality discharge requirements (see Section 2.4).

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Amine Drainage System (DA) The amine drainage system will consist of the following:

• Amine contaminated water system (DA) from amine plant equipment will be drained by closed pressurized drain system to the buried amine sump drum;

• Rainwater runoff, firewater and washdown in the contained area of the amine unit will be drained to a sump within the contained area and emptied by vacuum truck for proper disposal;

• Rainwater runoff, firewater and washdown to paved areas in the amine unit area will be collected in an independent drainage channel and connected by sealed inlet to the oily water sewer system.

Average flow rate is expected to be 12 m3/day.

Domestic Sewer System (DW) The domestic sewer system will receive all domestic wastewater from the plant buildings and the permanent operation camp, including sanitary and kitchen wastes after degreasing which will be directed to the wastewater treatment plant (Section 3.2.3.5).

Treated effluents from the domestic sewer system will be mixed with treated effluent from the oily and chemical sewer systems and with cooling water prior to being discharged to the sea in accordance with the appropriate water quality discharge requirements (see Section 2.4).

Brine Systems The concentrated brine discharge system from the sea water desalination plant will be pumped via a dedicated pipe line to the sea water outfall channel.

Average flow rate is expected to be 550 m3/h.

Cooling Water Discharge The outfall is designed for an average flow rate of cooling water discharge of 60,000 m3/h.

Peripheral Rain Water Ditches Peripheral ditches installed on the east and south sides of the plant site will collect clean surface water from the surrounding hills and discharge this water to existing wadi(s) or to the sea. These ditches, located inside of the perimeter security fence, may, in some cases, also collect non-contaminated water from unconstructed areas, roads and building roofs.

3.2.3.5. Wastewater Treatment Plant

Domestic sewer wastes will be treated using an aerobic biological treatment plant, comprised of buffer tanks with aeration system, activated sludge reactor, clarifier, and chlorination dosing system. The sludge will be dried and stabilized for appropriate disposal. Treated effluent will be mixed with treated wastewater from the chemical and oily sewer as well as cooling water prior to being discharged to the sea.

The design flow rate is expected to be 333 m3/h on average for the temporary camp (during construction) and 30 m3/h average for permanent camp (during operation phase).

The sanitary treatment plant will meet the following quality standards for discharge (both normal and peak flows):

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Table 3-5 Sanitary treatment plant standards for discharge Parameter Concentration

BOD 20 mg/l

Total Suspended Solids 30 mg/l

Residual chlorine < 0.1 mg/l

pH 6 - 9

3.2.3.6. Utilities

Fuel gas system A fuel gas system will be provided to condition the fuel gas required by the gas turbines (process and power generation) and the boilers.

Power generation Power demand for the complete facilities is totally produced by onsite power generation. There is neither public nor other electrical tie in available. The power generation facility includes 4 gas turbine generators, located in the Utility Area, producing 27 MW each (11,000 V, 3 phase, 50 Hz power). Parallel gas turbine trains will be installed. Average gas flow rate to the system (total for all trains is expected to be approximately 16 t/h.

Gas turbines for power generation are equipped with reduced NOx emission burners.

Emergency power generation and black start system consist of two diesel generators producing 2,500 kW (6.6 kV, 3 phases, 50 Hz power).

Steam generation Three parallel boilers will be installed to provide process steam to the LNG plant (at least one for maintenance, two remaining in full production plus 100% utilities load). Each boiler will run at 50 to 66% capacity in normal operation (fed with liquid fuel condensate and/or fuel gas – dual system). The characteristics are being subject to final design.

Compressors Four gas turbines (two per train) will be installed for providing power directly to high consumption process units, as follows:

• Propane compressors: 84 MW (ISO) turbine from a maximum fuel demand of approximately 260 MW (one per train);

• MR compressors: 84 MW (ISO) turbine from a maximum fuel demand of approximately 260 MW (one per train).

Regeneration furnace One regeneration gas heater will be installed per train. The design duty of these two heaters is 8.3 MW.

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Cooling medium The seawater cooling system will be a once-through intake / outfall arrangement, and will be treated using electrochlorination to prevent marine growth in the circuit. The overall rise temperature between inlet and outlet of the seawater circuit shall be 10°C maximum.

Other utilities The following supporting services will be available on the LNG plant:

• Diesel fuel will be supplied by truck or barges from an outside source to diesel fuel storage tanks.

• Compressed air system for instrument air, plant service air and feed air supply to the nitrogen plant. The system will include 3 x 50% electric driven air compressors, wet air receivers, instrument air dryers and receivers.

• Nitrogen generation system: two cryogenic air separation units.

• Fire fighting water system: fixed equipments (fire hydrants, elevated monitors, water spray systems, powder units and foam generators) and mobile equipments (hand held extinguishers, water monitors and wheeled powder units) will be available, using treated fresh water or sea water. A fire brigade with its mobile equipment: fire trucks, powder and foam trucks, ladders and hoses will also be available.

• Refrigerant storage (ethane and propane) will be sized to hold approximately twice of one LNG train.

• Chemicals will be set on areas provided with retention.

Control The LNG plant at Balhaf will be monitored and controlled from an Integrated Plant Control System (IPCS): the control equipment intelligence shall be distributed into instrument technical rooms, located close to the process areas they serve, while the operator interface shall be from Distributed Control System (DCS) operator consoles installed in the CCR and located in a “safe” area.

The CCR will include the terminal station of the SCADA of the Main pipeline (see Section 3.1.3.2).

3.2.3.7. Logistics

All support buildings and facilities necessary for plant administration, operation, maintenance, safety and training will be provided. A permanent camp will be located adjacent to the plant facilities to house personnel required for normal conduct of operations.

3.2.3.8. Additional Facilities

Jetty The jetty will serve as the main LNG loading point to LNG carriers ranging from 70,000 to 205,000 m3. The jetty will be equipped with mooring appurtenances (dolphins), loading arms that connect the LNG carrier manifolds to pipelines on the jetty, strainers, circulation pumps, drain pumps and a drain drum. At Balhaf, the jetty will extend westward from the LNG plant approximately 900 m into the Gulf of Aden.

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The LNG carriers will be subject to the MARPOL convention. During their approach and mooring at the Balhaf jetty, no bunkering, refuelling or ballasting will be carried out. ISPS (International Ship and Port Facility Security) code (IMO) will be applied.

MOF (Material Offloading Facility) The MOF, located approximately 300 m south of the jetty, will be used for general supply off-loading and mooring of tugs and will not function as a harbour. The area will include lighted beacons, a material off-loading dock and a tug wharf.

Air strip An air strip will be constructed in the area approximately 3 km to the north-west of the LNG plant. The air strip will consist of a single runway approximately 950 m long and 45 m wide. Access will be from the plant access road via a new access road. The airstrip will be operated on day-time only for domestic flights and will be compliant with International Civil Aviation Organisation Exhibit 14 vol. 1. It will be used for personnel transportation during rotation and for emergency situations (MEDEVACs).

Camps During operation a permanent camp will be constructed for 700 to 1,000 people. A refurbished part of the construction camp will house 1,000 persons every 18 months for maintenance periods. The location of the camps is shown on Figure 3-5.

All camp facilities such as potable water system and sewage treatment will be designed for these peak periods. The permanent camp will have a waste incinerator fuelled by natural gas for the combustion of domestic solid waste.

3.2.4. Decommissioning

At the end of the lifetime of the Project (25 years), the LNG plant will be decommissioned. Above ground structures of the LNG plant will be dismantled and removed. Specific studies will be conducted for the plan decommissioning.

3.2.5. Summary of Wastes and Emissions

Wastes and emissions generated by this Project include atmospheric emissions, construction wastes, wastewater, hazardous wastes and non-hazardous wastes. These emissions and waste streams are quantified, during construction and operations, in the following sub-sections.

3.2.5.1. Atmospheric Emissions

Pipeline construction atmospheric emissions Combustion contaminants from heavy duty vehicles are estimated based on the anticipated level of vehicle activity. For pipeline sections constructed in open areas consisting of uncovered ground and dirt roads (rural spread), the rate of progress can move rapidly. Rural spreads generally use a 22 m construction zone. Construction equipment in a spread would include machinery such as trenchers, welding machines, tracked side booms and support vehicles. Based on emissions for the installation of a pipeline (Aspen Environmental Group, 1996) constructed in open areas, the table below presents estimated vehicle emissions as a function of distance. These values are based on a semi-arid region and a typical depth of 1.2 meters for the pipeline trench. Estimated construction emissions using these factors are also presented in this table:

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AIR EMISSION FROM VEHICLES DURING PIPELINE CONSTRUCTION

Pollutant : NOx Sox CO VOC

Emission Factor (kg/km) 288 11 779 55

Emissions (kg) 92,220 3,625 249,299 17,782

Pipeline operation atmospheric emissions. The pipeline operation does not produce atmospheric emissions since compression is installed and already operating for gas reinjection in the Upstream Fields. There is no intermediate compressor station along the pipeline, thus there is not atmospheric emission during routine operation.

LNG plant atmospheric emissions The emissions generated during construction of the LNG plant have not been quantified.

Two modes of operation have been identified for the Yemen LNG Project:

• Normal operations for which fuel gas is available for both electrical generation and turbo compression, assumed to be 345 days per year;

• Shutdown mode (processes shutdowns or maintenance operations), during which the field will run with reduced power consumption (diesel) and without gas production; it will occur about 20 days per year.

The first train of the plant is scheduled to start in December 2008, and the second train in March 2009. Then the consumptions are defined “pro rata temporis”, assuming one month functioning in 2008 (train 1), 22 months functioning in 2009 (12 for train 1 and 10 for train 2).

The atmospheric emission sources expected from the YLNG Project during normal operations are discussed below.

Fuel gas combustion

The fuel gas consumption is defined as follows:

• Compression 31.48 t/h per train;

• Regeneration heater 0.764 t/h per train ;

• Steam generation: 4.1 t/h – 2 trains;

• Power generation: 21.6 t/h – 2 trains.

The trains are assumed to run at 60% capacity during the first month, due to start-up period.

Diesel consumption

In normal operations, the diesel consumption is reduced to the regular emergency safety equipment testing and other miscellaneous equipment, and is estimated to be approximately 500 t/y.

During the shutdown mode, there is no hydrocarbon production. Essential power is generated from diesel and is assumed to be equivalent to the nominal power of the Emergency Diesel Generator, i.e. 2 500 kW (30% efficiency).

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Flaring

No flaring is expected on Yemen LNG plant, except for safety reasons. Two flares are planned for the Balhaf plant with the following characteristics:

• Marine flare: Pilot gas: 240 kg/h or 2102.4 t/y

Purge gas: 450 kg/h or 3942 t/y

Flared gas: 50 t/h during 2 hours (only when the boil off compressor is down)

• Main flare: Pilot gas: 240 kg/h or 2102.4 t/y

Purge gas: 450 kg/h or 3942 t/y

Compressor seal gas: 300 kg/d or 109.5 t/y during 2 hours

Two depressurizations are assumed of 500 tons per train per normal operating year. Additional depressurizations are expected during the first two years of operation.

Venting

The amine regeneration unit will be the only one unit which will be vented. Approximately 23.09 MSm3/y of acid gas will be vented in normal operations.

Fugitive emissions

The two gas production facilities and the four compression units of the Yemen LNG plant, LNG loading/unloading facilities, PSVs, atmospheric pressure installations are considered to estimate the fugitive emissions.

Logistics and transport

Two tug boats are assumed to be permanently in operation in the MOF, each consuming 5 t/d of diesel.

As no precise information is available at this stage of the Project, atmospheric emissions are not estimated here for the construction phase and the decommissioning of the plant.

The following Tables 3-6 and 3-7 summarize the input information for the GHG emissions calculation for the operation of the plant.


Year Fuel gas (MSm3/y)

Diesel (kton/y)

Flaring (MSm3/y)

Acid gas vent

(MSm3/y)

Fugitive emissions (Gas nb*)

Fugitive emissions (Comp nb*)

Logistics (kton/y)

2008 27.1 0.02 4.1 1.0 2 4 0.2

2009 974.0 0.46 7.1 21.2 2 4 3.3

2010 to

2034 1082.3 0.50 19.6 23.1 2 4 3.7

*: number of processing facilities

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Year Diesel (kton/y)

Logistics (kton/y)

2008 0.3 0.2

2009 5.7 3.3

2010 to 2034 6.3 3.7

GHG emissions calculation The Green House Gases (GHG) emissions from the LNG plant project can be compared with similar projects, in terms of emission intensities. Quantities from each source are estimated using the methodology adopted by International Association of Oil and Gas Producers (OGP). The emission estimation comprises multiplying the mass of hydrocarbon (diesel, gas) combusted by corresponding emission factors of each compound. The compounds that are released into the atmosphere include:

• Carbon dioxide (CO2);

• Carbon monoxide (CO);

• Nitrous oxide (N2O);

• Methane (CH4);

• Sulfur dioxide (SO2);

• Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC);

• Nitrogen oxides (NOx).

The following tables 3-8 and 3-9 summarize the GHG emissions, including 345 d/y of normal operations and 20 d/y of shutdowns, compared to the Net Utilized Production of the plant (NUP, it correspond s to the sum of exported energy and fuel gas used by the plant).


Year NUP (Mboe/y)

CO2 (kton/y)

CO (kton/y)

N2O (kton/y)

CH4 (kton/y)

GHG (kton/y) SO2

(kton/y) VOC

(kton/y) NOx

(kton/y)

2008 1.72 61.3 0.08 0.00 0.34 69.9 0.00 0.05 0.14

2009 61.78 1 950.1 2.01 0.15 2.31 2 048.4 0.03 0.40 4.74

2010 to

2034 68.64 2 146.5 2.17 0.17 2.39 2 251.5 0.03 0.42 5.25

Total 1 780 55 673 56.23 4.31 62 58 406 0.8 11.0 136.0

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The GHG emission intensity value is obtained dividing the total GHG emissions (in kilo tons per year) by the total energy production i.e. the gas production expressed in million barrels of oil equivalent per year. This calculation leads to the following estimations:


Year CO2 (Kt/Mboe)

CO (Kt/Mboe)

N2O (Kt/Mboe)

CH4 (Kt/Mboe)

GHG (Kt/Mboe) SO2

(Kt/Mboe) VOC

(Kt/Mboe) NOx

(Kt/Mboe)

2008 35.72 0.04 0.00 0.20 40.72 0.00 0.03 0.08

2009 31.57 0.03 0.00 0.04 33.16 0.00 0.01 0.08

2010 to

2034 31.27 0.03 0.00 0.03 32.80 0.00 0.01 0.08

The total GHG emissions during the LNG plant project are 58 406 kt CO2 eq., which corresponds to an average emission intensity of 32.8 kt/Mboe. This intensity is calculated with the Net Utilised Production which includes the fuel gas required to run the plant.

The use of only the exported energy (total of 1 700 Mboe) leads to an average emission intensity of 34.3 kt/Mboe.

3.2.5.2. Liquid Emissions Non-contaminated sewer: it will be discharged by gravity into the sea via an observation pit with an expected flow between 0 and 100 m3/h.

Wastewater flows: The following wastewater flows will be combined in a common outfall pipe with a discharge to the ocean, 680 m from shore at 20 m depth:


Source Design

Average Flow

(m3/h)

Design Peak Flow

(m3/h)

Treated oily wastewater 10 60

Treated chemical wastewater

0.5 4

Treated sanitary wastewater

11.7 16.7

Desalination discharge (brine water)

550 -

Amine drain effluent 0.5 1

Cooling water from utility 310 342

Cooling water 60,000 65,000

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The combined discharge will meet quality requirements adopted for the YLNG Project (see Section 2.4).

Inhibited water from pipelines and plant hydro-testing: The pipeline and plant equipments hydro-test water contains chemicals necessary to prevent corrosion and/or biological growth. This water is flushed out of equipments during pre-commissioning and is discharged to the sea after the test. The water hydrostatic test water from the plant will be discharged to sea after meeting the criteria and the hydrostatic test water from the pipelines may be discharged to lined evaporation ponds located along the pipeline route. However, the method of handling hydrotest water used for commissioning is still under assessment.

3.2.5.3. Wastes

During the construction period, the following volumes are expected to be disposed of:

• Burnable wastes: max. 130 t/month;

• Unburnable wastes: max. 150 t/month;

• Slop oils: max. 20 t/month;

• Medical wastes: max. 0.2 t/month.

Anticipated domestic waste generated per person per day is maximum 1.2 kg.

A Waste Management Program will be developed for this Project setting out the ground rules conforming with the local regulations and the YLNG specifications as applicable for waste disposal and waste management (see Section 7.0).

Domestic solid wastes that cannot be recycled or reused will be incinerated in a waste incinerator located in proximity to the permanent camp.

Wastes generated by the LNG facility are presented in the following Table 3-11.

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Table 3-11 LNG plant waste streams Waste Frequency of Generation

Kitchen waste - food waste, packaging Daily

Office waste - paper etc. Daily

Molecular sieves Intermittent - maintenance and shut-downs only every 3-4 years

Mercury removal catalyst None expected - maintenance and shut-downs only every 3-4 years

Activated carbon Intermittent - at 3-6 month intervals

Gas filters Intermittent - 1 week

Liquid filters for amine Intermittent - at 3-6 month intervals

Boiler cleaning wastes Intermittent - maintenance and shut-downs only every 3-4 years

Heat exchanger wastes Intermittent - maintenance and shut-downs only every 3-4 years

Digested sanitary sewage sludge Intermittent - at 1-2 month intervals

Inorganic sludge from ETP Intermittent - at 6 month intervals

Oily sludge from ETP Intermittent - at 6 month intervals

Oily waste - rags, paper Small amounts daily

Clinical waste Small amounts weekly

Air intake filters from gas turbines Intermittent - depending on weather conditions

Laboratory wastes - acids, alkalis, solvents Small amounts daily

Waste oils - equipment and vehicle maintenance

Small amounts daily - more during shutdowns

Transformer oils Intermittent - maintenance and shut-downs only every 3-4 years

Scrap metal Intermittent

Waste paints and paint tins Intermittent

Waste concrete, rubble, brick Intermittent

Gardening wastes Intermittent

Spent mercury absorbent None expected

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3.2.5.4. Summary of Emissions and Waste

The following Table provides a summary of the LNG plant emissions and wastes.


Waste Category Source Basis for estimation of quantities /

comments Estimated waste

quantity

Atmospheric emissions

LNG plant production operations

Gas and diesel combustion, flaring, venting, fugitive emissions.

58 406 tonnes of equivalent CO2 per

year

Pipelines Construction

Generated by approximately 300 people living in the pipeline construction camps. ~ 4,000 m3/month

LNG plant Construction

Generated by approximately 7,000 people living in the LNG plant construction camp. ~ 84,000 m3/month

LNG plant permanent camp

Generated by approximately 1,000 people living in the LNG plant permanent camp ~ 12,000 m3/month


Generated by processes. ~ 61,000 m3/h

Construction: Hydro-testing treated water from pipelines

For pressure testing and chemical treatment of the pipelines.

~ 40,000 m3(to be

confirmed)

Liquid emissions

Construction: Hydro-testing treated water from LNG plant equipments

For pressure testing and chemical treatment of the LNG plant equipments. ~ 145,000 m3

Pipelines Construction

Chemical waste (batteries, used solvents, transformers…), garbage and inert solid waste

~ 300 t/month

LNG plant Construction


~ 300 t/month Solid wastes emissions



~ 0.5 m3/d per person

3.2.6. Indicative Schedule of the LNG Project

The indicative construction schedules for the pipeline and of the Balhaf LNG plant are shown in Figures 3-13 and 3-14.

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG


MAIN AND TRANSFER LINES - PROJECT SCHEDULE BAR CHART

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Ref.

No barscale

LYO

February 2006

JLL

43683552 Figure 3-13

Format

A4

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG


OVERALL PROJECT BAR CHART SCHEDULE

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Ref.

No barscale

LYO

February 2006

JLL

43683552 Figure 3-14

Format

A3

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CONTENTS

Section Page Number

4. DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT.................................................................... 4-1

4.1. CLIMATE, METEOROLOGY AND AIR QUALITY........................................................4-1 4.1.1. General Climatological Conditions..........................................................................4-1 4.1.2. Rainfall.....................................................................................................................4-5 4.1.3. Temperature............................................................................................................4-5 4.1.4. Relative Humidity ....................................................................................................4-5 4.1.5. Wind Speed and Direction ......................................................................................4-5 4.1.6. Ambient Air Quality .................................................................................................4-6 4.2. OCEANOGRAPHY........................................................................................................4-8 4.2.1. Waves......................................................................................................................4-8 4.2.2. Currents...................................................................................................................4-8 4.2.3. Tides........................................................................................................................4-9 4.2.4. Bathymetry ..............................................................................................................4-9 4.2.5. Sea Water Quality ...................................................................................................4-9

4.3. GEOLOGY AND SOILS ..............................................................................................4-11 4.3.1. Geology .................................................................................................................4-11 4.3.2. Soils .......................................................................................................................4-11 4.3.3. Natural Geologic Hazards .....................................................................................4-12 4.3.3.1. Seismicity and Faults ........................................................................................4-12 4.3.3.2. Slope Stability and Rock Falls ..........................................................................4-12 4.3.3.3. Soil Erosion .......................................................................................................4-13

4.4. WATER RESOURCES................................................................................................4-14 4.4.1. Surface Water .......................................................................................................4-14 4.4.2. Groundwater..........................................................................................................4-17

4.5. BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT ...................................................................................4-20 4.5.1. Flora.......................................................................................................................4-20 4.5.2. Fauna ....................................................................................................................4-24 4.5.3. Sensitive Species ..................................................................................................4-26 4.5.4. Marine habitats at the Balhaf site .........................................................................4-29 4.5.4.1. Sandy bottoms ..................................................................................................4-29 4.5.4.2. Coral reefs .........................................................................................................4-30 4.5.4.3. Fish Community ................................................................................................4-32 4.5.4.4. Environmental Sensitivity of marine habitats ....................................................4-33

4.6. NOISE..........................................................................................................................4-35 4.6.1. Noise Levels ..........................................................................................................4-35 4.6.2. Sensitive receptors................................................................................................4-36 4.7. SOCIO-ECONOMIC BASELINE.............................................................................. 37 4.7.1. Surveys and Methodology ....................................................................................... 37 4.7.2. Areas of Concern and Project Affected People ....................................................... 39 4.7.3. Yemen National Context .......................................................................................... 41 4.7.3.1. Political structure and administration ....................................................................... 42

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4.7.3.2. Economy and industry.............................................................................................. 46 4.7.3.3. Social welfare and civil society ................................................................................ 47 4.7.4. Demographics and Population................................................................................. 48 4.7.4.1. Population and migration ......................................................................................... 48 4.7.4.2. Population in the Project Area ................................................................................. 48 4.7.4.3. Settlements along the pipeline route ....................................................................... 49 4.7.4.4. Settlements Around the Plant Area ......................................................................... 53 4.7.4.5. Ethnicity and tribes ................................................................................................... 53 4.7.4.6. Vulnerable and Marginalised Groups ...................................................................... 55 4.7.4.7. Socio-cultural practices............................................................................................ 56 4.7.4.8. Religion..................................................................................................................... 58 4.7.4.9. Gender distribution ................................................................................................... 58 4.7.4.10. Age distribution......................................................................................................... 59 4.7.4.11. Public health ............................................................................................................. 60 4.7.5. Land Tenure and Use .............................................................................................. 64 4.7.5.1. Land ownership ........................................................................................................ 64 4.7.5.2. Land use................................................................................................................... 65 4.7.5.3. Other land issues ..................................................................................................... 66 4.7.6. Economic Activities .................................................................................................. 69 4.7.6.1. Agriculture ................................................................................................................ 69 4.7.6.2. Grazing and animal husbandry................................................................................ 70 4.7.6.3. Bee keeping ............................................................................................................. 71 4.7.6.4. Shipping and Use of Port / Road network ............................................................... 71 4.7.6.5. Fisheries and Fishing ............................................................................................... 73 4.7.6.6. Other Economic Activities.................................................................................... 80 4.7.7. Coastal Zone Management / Marine Protected Areas ............................................ 83 4.7.7.1. Background .............................................................................................................. 83 4.7.7.2. Marine Survey History in the Gulf of Aden .............................................................. 84 4.7.7.3. Current Zoning Status .............................................................................................. 84 4.7.7.4. The future of the CZMP............................................................................................ 84 4.7.8. Livelihoods................................................................................................................ 85 4.7.8.1. Employment status................................................................................................... 85 4.7.8.2. Sources of income................................................................................................... 87 4.7.8.3. Income and expenditure........................................................................................... 87 4.7.8.4. Skill levels and previous construction experience................................................... 88 4.7.9. Infrastructure, Resources and Services .................................................................. 89 4.7.9.1. Water supply ............................................................................................................ 89 4.7.9.2. Electricity .................................................................................................................. 90 4.7.9.3. Roads ....................................................................................................................... 91 4.7.9.4. Telecommunications ................................................................................................ 92 4.7.9.5. Education.................................................................................................................. 92 4.7.9.6. Health services ......................................................................................................... 93 4.7.10. Development needs and priorities ........................................................................... 94 4.7.11. Information sources.................................................................................................. 95 4.7.11.1. Media for receiving information................................................................................ 95 4.7.11.2. NGOs Activities and related knowledge and attitudes ............................................ 96 4.8. VISUAL BASELINE CONDITIONS .......................................................................... 99 4.8.1. Scenic Quality .......................................................................................................... 99 4.8.2. Visual Sensitivity ...................................................................................................... 99 4.9. ARCHAEOLOGY.................................................................................................... 100 4.9.1. Background ............................................................................................................ 100

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4.9.2. Pipeline Route ........................................................................................................ 101 4.9.3. Balhaf site............................................................................................................... 102 4.9.3.1. Bronze Age Structures ........................................................................................... 102 4.9.3.2. Modern Structures.................................................................................................. 102 4.10. SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE AREAS ................................ 106 4.10.1. Main Line – Transfer Line ...................................................................................... 106 4.10.2. Balhaf site............................................................................................................... 106

FIGURES

After page n°

Figure 4-1 YLNG Project Rainfall and Temperature 4-1

Figure 4-2 Balhaf wind roses and current models 4-6

Figure 4-3 Balhaf bathymetry 4-9

Figure 4-4 YLNG Project Geological Setting 4-11

Figure 4-5 Main Line KP 0 to KP 160 Geology and Water Resources

4-11

Figure 4-6 Main Line KP 160 to KP 320 and Balhaf Geology and Water Resources

4-17

Figure 4-7 Balhaf Marine Bottom Occupation 4-29

Figure 4-8 Settlements in Shabwah and Marib 4-41

Figure 4-9 Yemen National Statistics 4-41

Figure 4-10 Gas Pipeline Location by Directorate Boundaries 4-43

Figure 4-11 Map showing Locations of Tribal Groups along Pipeline Route

4-55

Figure 4-12 Locations of mine affected communities in Yemen by age of conflict

4-66

Figure 4-13 Cultivated area in Surveyed Settlements 4-69

Figure 4-14 Location of Manufacturing and Extractive Industry 4-80

Figure 4-15 Settlements by Shops Number 4-82

Figure 4-16 Daily and weekly Markets 4-82

Figure 4-17 Proposed Marine Protected Area 4-84

Figure 4-18 Nearest Asphalted Roads 4-91

Figure 4-19 School Location 4-92

Figure 4-20 Secondary School Location 4-92

Figure 4-21 Health Facilities Location 4-93

Figure 4-22 Main Line KP 0 to KP 160 Archaeology 4-105

Figure 4-23 Main Line KP 160 to 320 Archaeology 4-105

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Figure 4-24 Balhaf LNG site Archaeology 4-105

Figure 4-25 Main Line - Transfer Line Geology and Water Resources Sensitivity Map

4-106

Figure 4-26 Main Line - Transfer Line Flora Sensitivity Map 4-106

Figure 4-27 Main Line - Transfer Line Socio-economics Sensitivity Map

4-106

Figure 4-28 Main Line - Transfer Line Archaeology Sensitivity Map 4-106

Figure 4-29 Balhaf Marine Sensitivity Map 4-106

Figure 4-30 Balhaf Terrestrial Sensitivity Map 4-106

TABLES

Table 4.1 Main Line - Transfer Line Average Monthly Value of Meteorological Variables

Table 4.2 Balhaf Meteorological Statistics (January '96 - February '97)

Table 4.3 Balhaf Rainfall Intensity Statistics (January '96 - February '97)

Table 4.4 Balhaf Air Quality (Baseline Survey, 1997)

Table 4.5 Tide levels at Balhaf

Table 4.6 Seawater Quality

Table 4.7 Main Line - Transfer Line Maximum Probable Flood (MPF)

Table 4.8 Abstraction and Recharge of Aquifers

Table 4.9 List of Plants Observed During the 1997 Terrestrial Baseline Survey

Table 4.10 List of Animals Potentially Present in the Project Area

Table 4.11 Environmental sensitivity of marine habitats

Table 4.12 Project Area showing pipeline length in each directorate

Table 4.13 Population Distribution in the Directorates and Communities

Table 4.14 Major Cities and their Population in Relevant Directorates

Table 4.15 Settlements along the Pipeline Route Villages within 5 km from Main Pipeline

Table 4.16 Main Tribes and Sub-tribes along the Pipeline Route

Table 4.17 Gender Distribution in Shabwa Governorate

Table 4.18 Projected Population by Age Distribution 2005

Table 4.19 Diseases reported in Shabwa Governate 2003

Table 4.20 Main Line – Transfer Line – Land Use within 1 km of row

Table 4.21 Cultivated Lands and Population Involved in Agricultural Activities within the Project Area

Table 4.22 Water Supply Sources of Irrigation

Table 4.23 Population Involved in Grazing and Animal Husbandry Activities

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Table 4.24 Population Involved in Bee Keeping Activities within the 2001 socio-economic Study Surveyed Area

Table 4.25 Yemeni Fish and Invertebrate Production

Table 4.26 Number of artisanal fishermen by cooperative

Table 4.27 Population Involved in Handicrafts and Mining Activities Recorded within the 2001 Socio-economic Survey

Table 4.28 Population Involved in Trading Activities and Commercial Shops Recorded within the 2001 Socio-economic Survey

Table 4.29 Weekly Markets Recorded within the Surveyed Area

Table 4.30 Distribution of Economically Active Population by Activities (1994 census)

Table 4.31 Average Monthly Spending for an Individual in Riyals as % of all expenditures

Table 4.32 Types of Public Service problems faced in Surveyed Settlements

Table 4.33 Water Supply Sources Recorded within the 2001 Socio-economic Surveyed Area

Table 4.34 Electricity Services Recorded within the 2001 Socio-economic Surveyed Area

Table 4.35 Types of Roads Recorded within Surveyed Area

Table 4.36 Educational Data (1998/99 Educational Survey)

Table 4.37 Health Facilities Location

Table 4.38 Archaeological Findings – Main Line – Transfer Line

Table 4.39 Archaeological Findings – Balhaf site

Table 4.40 Main Line - Transfer Line Environmental Baseline Description within 1 Km of Row

PHOTOGRAPHIC DOCUMENTATION

APPENDICES

Appendix 4.1 Distribution of settlements and population data along the pipeline route

Appendix 4.2 Maps of Pipeline route

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4. DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT

4.1. CLIMATE, METEOROLOGY AND AIR QUALITY 4.1.1. General Climatological Conditions

The area of the pipelines and Balhaf LNG site has a climate that can be classified as being controlled by the monsoon seasons. These two distinct seasons are the south-west monsoon and the north-east monsoon. The south-west monsoon season commences in about late May and persists until the end of September. The weather during this period along the pipeline route is typically hot and windy, resulting in significant dust storms. However, intense thunderstorms can occur on a localized basis, resulting in flooding and threats to humans and livestock. The north-east monsoon is well established from November through April, marked by lower temperatures and a greater amount of low cloud cover. The transition between the two seasons is marked by light variable winds.

The closest meteorological stations from the pipelines and the Balhaf LNG plant with complete records from 1985 through 1991 are Marib, Nuqub, Nissab, Meffiah and Sufal and are shown on Table 4-1 and Figure 4-1 together with the monthly rainfalls and temperatures.

At the Balhaf site, a specific meteorological and oceanographic study was performed during 1996 and 1997 by Global Environmental & Ocean Sciences (GEOS 1997). The period surveyed covered the period January 1996 to February 1997. Tables 4-2 and 4-3 present meteorological data collected by GEOS during the Meteocean data survey.

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG


2000kmN

1800kmN

1600kmN

1400kmN

400km

E

600km

E

800km

E

200km

E

400km

E

600km

E

From "THE WATER RESOURCES OF YEMEN"TNO INSTITUTE OF APPLIED GEOSCIENCE

DELFT, NETHERLANDS

LEGEND

elevation in m above sea level:

0 - 200

200 - 400

400 - 1000

1000 - 1600

1600 - 2200

2200 - 2800

> 2800

isohyet (annual rainfall in mm)

city or town

rainfall and meteorological stations with complete or nearly

complete record for standard period 1985 through 1991

3 0 0

station presented in this baseline study for the YLNG project

MAINLINE

K P U

BAL HAF

LNG

PLANT SITE

Sufal

Meffiah

Nissab

Nuqub

C P U

TRANSFER

LINE

Nuqub

0

10

20

30

40

50

Jan

Feb

Mar

Ap

r

May Ju

n

Jul

Au

g

Sep

Oct

No

v

Dec

Ra

in(m

m)

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

Tem

p.

(°C

)

Rain (mm)

Temp. (°C)

Nissab

0

10

20

30

40

50

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May Ju

n

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Rai

n(m

m)

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

Tem

p.(

°C)

Rain (mm)

Temp. (° C)

Sufal

0

10

20

30

40

50

Jan

Feb

Mar

Ap

r

May Ju

n

Jul

Au

g

Sep

Oct

No

v

Dec

Ra

in(m

m)

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

Tem

p.

(°C

)

Rain (mm)

Temp. (°C)

Marib

0

1020

3040

50

Jan

Mar

May Ju

lSep

Nov

Ra

in(m

m)

-5

5

15

25

35

Tem

p.

(°C

)

Rain (mm)

Temp. (°C)

YLNG PROJECTRAINFALL AND TEMPERATURE

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Ref.

See barscale

LYO

February 2006

JLL

43683552 Figure 4-1

Format

A3

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TABLE 4-1 MAIN LINE - TRANSFER LINE

AVERAGE MONTHLY VALUES OF METEOROLOGICAL VARIABLES

Marib Nuqub Nissab Meffiah SufalRain (mm) Temp. (°C) Rain (mm) Temp. (°C) Rain (mm) Temp. (°C) Rain (mm) Temp. (°C) Rain (mm) Temp. (°C)

Jan 0,8 17,9 0,9 18,7 2,2 19,1 0,0 23,3 1,2 23,5Feb 10,7 22,2 9,4 20,6 9,3 21,9 0,0 23,6 0,9 25,3Mar 8,3 25,6 20,1 23,3 43,3 24,8 0,0 25,4 3,4 26,5Apr 28,7 26,3 12,9 23,4 9,9 26,6 0,0 27,0 0,0 27,8May 1,3 27,9 3,5 27,1 6,7 28,5 15,9 29,4 0,3 30,5Jun 9,5 31,7 1,5 30,6 0,1 30,8 15,9 32,3 2,3 32,1Jul 23,0 33,3 8,8 31,7 6,8 32,3 24,5 32,5 6,7 33,7Aug 4,0 33,0 11,4 29,0 19,6 31,2 27,3 33,0 0,0 32,4Sep 1,5 29,6 0,8 28,1 2,0 28,7 43,4 30,1 0,0 32,0Oct 4,0 25,0 1,2 26,1 0,2 24,4 0,0 27,4 0,0 27,0Nov 3,8 21,2 0,1 21,5 0,0 21,4 0,0 26,8 2,7 25,8Dec 4,5 19,0 0,0 18,1 0,0 18,9 0,0 24,9 2,0 23,3

Total 100,1 - 70,7 - 100,1 - 127,0 - 19,5 -Mean - 26,1 - 24,9 - 25,7 - 28,0 - 28,3

Periods 1985-89 1986-891965-661982-92

1965-661978-791982-92 1980-83 1980-84 1975 1978-82 1983-91 1988-89

Data extracted from "The Water Resources of Yemen", TNO Institute of Geosciences, 1995

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TABLE 4-2 BALHAF METEOROLOGICAL STAT ISTICS (JANUARY ‘96 - FEBRUARY ‘97)

Period Wind speed (m/s) Air temperature (Deg C) Relative humidity (%)

Max Mean Max Min Mean Min Mean

January ‘96

February ‘96

March ‘96

April ‘96

May ‘96

June ‘96

July ‘96

August ‘96

September ‘96

October ‘96

November ‘96

December ‘96

January ‘97

February ‘97

15.2

12.6

15.2

13.7

14.6

12.1

15.6

12.2

14.3

12.4

12.8

12.4

12.2

12.0

6.0

5.9

6.4

5.6

5.1

3.5

3.5

3.4

4.1

4.1

5.0

4.5

5.4

4.2

27.9

27.8

30.2

33.8

34.2

33.3

33.6

33.8

33.8

33.5

31.7

28.8

27.4

27.7

21.0

19.4

22.6

23.5

25.7

23.2

25.6

24.4

25.2

22.0

21.4

19.6

19.3

20.5

25.1

24.8

26.9

28.0

30.0

29.1

29.5

29.5

29.4

27.0

26.1

24.8

23.9

24.4

33.5

28.7

53.5

28.2

30.0

44.8

37.3

39.8

44.3

18.3

23.7

21.8

40.8

31.5

69.2

66.2

74.3

73.7

73.6

77.0

71.0

69.8

78.0

69.6

63.2

66.1

68.0

70.0

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TABLE 4-3 BALHAF RAINFALL INTENSITY STATISTICS (JANUARY ‘96 - FEBRUARY ‘97)

Period Total Number of Hours of Rainfall

Max Hourly Rainfall Max 18-min Rainfall Total Rainfall

81 June ‘96

86 June ‘96

87 June ‘96

14 June ‘96

15 June ‘96

12 July ‘96

7 December ‘96

23 January ‘97

24 January ‘97

8.3

8.7

8.5

13.5

8.5

8.3

8.2

3.8

3.7

8.9

5.3

4.3

6.2

8.7

8.2

8.6

2.6

2.3

8.7

3.2

2.9

2.2

8.6

8.1

8.6

1.4

1.6

8.9

5.3

4.3

34.8

8.7

8.2

8.6

4.4

4.5

March-May

June-August

September-November

December-February

8.8

15.8

8.8

6.9

8.8

6.2

8.8

2.6

8.8

3.2

8.8

1.6

8.8

46.2

8.8

9.9

Total 22.7 6.2 3.2 55.8

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4.1.2. Rainfall

In the area of the projected Main Line, the majority of the rainfall occurs in the months of February through May, with annual average precipitation on the order of 100 mm at locations near the coast. However, strong, localized thunderstorms may result in maximum hourly rainfall at a given location of close to 100 mm and maximum monthly rainfall of over 400 mm.

The general rainfall pattern at Balhaf has been estimated from the closest meteorological station at Sufal (Figure 4-1). Annual rainfall is scarce, with June-July as the wettest months. Essentially, rainfall is rare at Balhaf. Total rainfall during June-August was approximately 46 mm, and the maximum rainfall intensity was 3.2 mm/10-min (see Table 4-3). No rainfall was recorded during the transitional seasons.

4.1.3. Temperature

The mean daily temperature near the coast varies from 23 ºC to 36 ºC, depending upon season. Absolute extremes may range from lows of about 13 ºC to highs over 40 ºC. The minimum temperatures generally occur during the months of December and January while the maximums occur during June and July. As distance from the ocean increases, the extremes in temperature are more pronounced.

At Balhaf, typically, air temperatures exhibited a diurnal variation throughout most of the survey period (GEOS, 1997), although, like wind, the air temperatures were more variable and less diurnal during the south-west monsoon season (June to August).

The hottest recorded season (GEOS 1997) the south-west monsoon season, which had a mean temperature of 29.4°C, whereas the coolest season was the north-east monsoon season during the winter months of December to February. Mean seasonal air temperature was 24.6°C, approximately 5°C cooler than the south-west monsoon temperatures (Table 4-2). Maximum recorded instantaneous air temperature was 37°C and minimum recorded air temperature was 19.3°C.

4.1.4. Relative Humidity

Relative humidity data are not available along the Main Line route. Data for the coastal area near Balhaf indicate that relative humidity is lowest in April and highest in June. Average minimum and maximum daily values are approximately 30 and 90 percent, respectively.

The Geos study (GEOS, 1997) showed that the maximum instantaneous humidity was 95.6% and was observed in June 1996. The minimum humidity was 18.3% and occurred in October 1996. Relative humidity was quite high throughout the measurement period, and monthly mean values ranged between 66.1% and 77.0% (Table 4-2). Diurnal variations were common throughout September to May and the typical diurnal pattern changed throughout the south-west monsoon season.

4.1.5. Wind Speed and Direction

The prevailing wind directions during the period from October to May are typically from the east and south-east by day and north or north-east at night. During the period June to September, the winds are from the south or south-west during the day and can have sustained speeds above 25 knots. During nighttime, speeds typically are less and the wind direction is more variable.

The Main Line area is subject to periods of strong winds, which may result in significant wind blown dust episodes and to occasional thunderstorms which may result in high winds and intense rainfall.

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The meteorology at Balhaf is dominated by the monsoon seasons: the south-west monsoon season occurs throughout June to September and the north-east monsoon season occurs in the winter months of December to March. The periods between each monsoon season are known as the transitional seasons and are generally characterized by more variable wind patterns.

Topographical features strongly influence the local wind patterns along the Gulf of Aden coastline of Yemen. Balhaf headland acts to shelter the coastline from the north-east monsoon winds, but Balhaf is relatively exposed to the south-west monsoon winds that blow across the Gulf of Aden toward the coast of Yemen.

The annual wind rose at Balhaf, presented in Figure 4-2, shows that during the measurement period (January 1996 to February 1997), (GEOS, 1997) the most common wind directions were east to south-east. This is somewhat different from the wind roses of the two monsoons for which predominant directions are typically north-easterly to south-easterly during the June to September monsoon, and south-westerly during the December to March monsoon.

The following summary comments can be made about the wind regime at Balhaf:

• During the June to September monsoon, only 1% of wind speed exceeds 10m/s, compared with 12% in the transitional season of March to May.

• Maximum measured 10-min mean wind speed was 15.6m/s.

• Strong diurnal variation associated with onshore/offshore breeze was predominant throughout the year, although winds during the south-west monsoon season were less diurnal, more variable and slower.

• 100-year extreme wind speed was estimated at 23.8m/s.

Based on these wind data, the Balhaf site is expected to have good emission dispersion potential.

4.1.6. Ambient Air Quality

There are no available air quality data for the Main Line and Transfer Line. However, as part of the Terrestrial Baseline Study (WCI, 1997), an air quality baseline survey was performed at Balhaf. Results indicate very low pollutant concentrations and good ambient air quality.

Passive air canisters were installed at the Balhaf site at the North Tower, South Tower and West Fortress during the 1997 baseline survey. Both Passam diffusion sensors and Draeger tubes were used. Samples were initially observed and then integrated samples were obtained over a 20 day period and analyzed for compounds of interest.

Most compounds appear to be at levels near the detection limits, despite the fact that some traffic and drilling activities were occurring within the Balhaf site (Table 4-4). These results suggest very good ambient air quality at the Balhaf site.

TYPICAL WIND ROSE - SOUTH-WEST MONSOON(DECEMBER TO MARCH)

PRELIMINARY CURRENT MODELSOUTH-WEST WIND CONDITION

(DECEMBER TO MARCH)

TYPICAL WIND ROSE - NORTH-EAST MONSOON(JUNE TO SEPTEMBER)

PRELIMINARY CURRENT MODELEAST WIND CONDITION(JUNE TO SEPTEMBER)

FROM GEOS, 1997 - PERIOD JANUARY 1996 TO FEBRUARY 1997

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG


BALHAF WIND ROSES AND CURRENT MODELS

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Ref.

See barscale

LYO

Febuary 2006

JLL

43683552 Figure 4-2

Format

A3

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TABLE 4-4 BALHAF AIR QUALITY (BASELINE SURVEY, 1997)

Carbon Monoxide

Hydrogen Sulphide

Nitrogen Dioxide

OzoneSulfur

DioxideBenzene Toluene

Ethylbenzene

p-xylene m-xylene o-xylene

mL/m3 mL/m3 mg/m3 mg/m3 mg/m3 mg/m3 mg/m3 mg/m3 mg/m3 mg/m3 mg/m3

6,00 1,30 3,00 3,00 0,70 0,40 0,40 0,40 0,40 0,40 0,40

<0.14 0,00 2,10 22,80 4,40 1,20 2,50 0,40 0,30 0,90 0,30

1,70 3,80 0,80 0,50 1,50 0,60

<0.14 0,00 2,80 31,20 1,10 1,20 4,40 0,80 0,60 2,00 0,20

1,50 3,30 0,60 0,50 1,20 0,40

<0.14 0,00 2,40 26,70 4,10 1,50 3,50 0,60 0,40 1,30 0,50

1,60 4,80 0,90 0,60 1,70 0,10

na na 0,90 6,10 0,00 0,30 0,80 0,10 0,00 0,30 0,00

Concentrations below sensitivity of tube for carbon monoxideMeasurements near detection limits for Nitrogen dioxide,sulfur dioxide and BTEX

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4.2. OCEANOGRAPHY 4.2.1. Waves

Wave measurements at Balhaf were made at two sites, including one offshore and one inshore. The inshore location was situated in a water depth of 31 m and recorded wave data between January 1996 and February 1997. Wave data were measured at the offshore location during the south-west monsoon season (June-August), in a water depth of 74 m.

The principal physical factor controlling the inshore wave climate at Balhaf is local winds. At offshore locations, the wave climate is also affected by local winds and may be affected by remote storms, particularly traveling from the Arabian Sea during the north-east monsoon season. Balhaf headland acts to shelter the inshore coastline from waves generated during the north-east monsoon season.

The following summary characterizes the wave climate at Balhaf:

• The wave climate at Balhaf is generally benign, with less than 8% of measured significant wave heights exceeding 1.0 m, although during the south-west monsoon season, 31% of measured heights exceed 1.0 m.

• Maximum observed significant wave height was 2.32 m.

• There is negligible long-period swell wave energy present at Balhaf.

• The dominant wave generation mechanism is local wind-wave generation. Resultant seas are steep and persist for relatively short durations.

• Extreme 1:100 year estimate of significant inshore wave height was 4.0 m.

• For the highest measured sea states, maximum wave heights (Hmax) were generally 1.73 times the significant wave heights (Hs).

4.2.2. Currents

The currents in Balhaf bay were relatively slow (less than 0.5 m/s) and did not vary in magnitude with season. Outside the bay region, current speeds were significantly higher. The current directions were in agreement with the geometry of the region, where currents run parallel to the Yemen coast (Figure 4-2).The dominant current directions are SSE (N145) and NNW (N325).

The general current regime close to Balhaf was low and monthly mean values of current speed ranged between 0.03 m/s and 0.16 m/s, with monthly maxima of 0.47 m/s. They were slightly higher off the Balhaf headland, where monthly mean values ranged from 0.44 m/s to 0.53 m/s, and monthly maxima of 1.46 m/s. Within Balhaf bay, 50% of current speeds were less than 0.1 m/s.

The following points summarize the current regime just offshore of Balhaf:

• The maximum current speed measured inshore, close to Balhaf, was 0.47 m/s, and the maximum offshore current speed was 1.46 m/s.

• Current speeds in the vicinity of the tanker jetty are characteristically very weak, and rarely exceed 0.3 m/s.

• The 100 year extreme current speed estimated from data was 0.74 m/s.

• Surface current speeds were affected by the wind regime.

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• Current flow generally follows the bathymetric contours, with only a very weak tidal signature.

4.2.3. Tides

In the Gulf of Aden, semi-diurnal tides occur which can vary between a maximum of 2.55 and 3 m for exceptionally high tides. Average tidal range height measured by a NOAA satellite was between 0.5 and 2 m. The residual extreme elevations recorded during the measurement period were a negative surge of -0.21 m in August 1996 and a positive surge of 0.22 m during January 1997. A high-low altitude tidal range of 2.51 m was derived for the analysis period.

The report edited by Sogréah in February 2000 and entitled “Balhaf Terminal – Additional berthing model study” presents the results of the GEOS survey conducted in 1997 “Long term meteo/oceanographic survey at Balhaf site”, they are reported in the Table 4.5 below.

TABLE 4-5 TIDE LEVELS AT BALHAF

Highest astronomical tide (HAT) +0.99 m/MSL

Mean higher high water (MHHW) +0.63 m/MSL

Mean lower high water (MLHW) +0.39 m/MSL

MSL 0.00 m/MSL

Mean higher low water (MHLW) -0.1 m/MSL

Mean lower low water (MLLW) -0.84 m/MSL

Lowest astronomical tide (LAT) -1.55 m/MSL From Sogréah study entitled “Balhaf LNG terminal – additional berthing model – February 2000” Note: all levels are given with respect to MSL (which is 1.55 m above LAT) MHHW: The average of the higher high water height of each tidal day MLHW: The average of the lower high water height of each tidal day MHLW: The average of the higher low water height of each tidal day MLLW: The average of the lower low water height of each tidal day HAT is the highest level, and LAT the lowest level that can be expected to occur under average meteorological conditions and under any combination of astronomical conditions. HAT and LAT are not extreme levels, as certain meteorological conditions can cause a higher or lower level, respectively.

4.2.4. Bathymetry

Figure 4-3 presents the bathymetry recorded in the Balhaf area. The future jetty and wharf structures will be located in areas with respectively 35m and 20m of maximum depth.

4.2.5. Sea Water Quality Table 4-6 presents the average sea water quality, based on bibliographical data.

Sea Water Temperature Monthly maximum sea water temperatures at 25 m above bed remained relatively stable, and varied between 26.1ºC and 32.4ºC during the course of the measurement period. Monthly minimum temperatures dropped from 30.3ºC in May to 18.6ºC in August. In July and August, temperatures dropped as much as 2 to 3ºC per hour.

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG


BALHAF BATHYMETRY

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Ref.

See barscale

LYO

February 2006

JLL

43683552 Figure 4-3

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The pattern of changes in monthly maximum temperatures 15 m above bed were similar to those measured at 25 m above bed, although more marked, with larger differences between maximum and minimum temperatures. From June to September, seawater temperatures varied between 30.9ºC and 32.4ºC near the coast and between 30.0ºC and 31.5ºC in open sea. Temperatures began to vary significantly during the day in the water column from the beginning of June (June 7, 1996).

These wide temperature variations in the water column during the south-west monsoon season can be explained by an increase in wave energy which causes the cold water to rise, and a shift in the thermocline due to an upwelling of the Somalian coast caused by south-western monsoon winds which can be felt as far as the Gulf of Aden.

During the winter, however, water temperature is stable: 24.5 to 27ºC in December 1995. Measurements performed by GEOS on December 4, 1995 revealed that temperatures were homogeneous: 26.2ºC from 0 to 21 m and 24.6ºC from -21 to -24.6 m (C1 and C2 buoys). This stability continues from April to June with a deviation of 2ºC between maxima and minima.

Conductivity and Salinity Overall, salinity appears to remain constant, with a mean salinity of 35‰. The GEOS data showed a similar trend, with only a slight decrease during September to November 1996. The mean conductivity varied between 56.7 mmhocm-1 and 54.3 mmhocm-1.

TABLE 4-6 SEAWATER QUALITY

PARAMETER CONCENTRATION

mg/l meq/l

CATIONS Na+ 11,282 490.5

K+ 429 11.0

Ca2+ 554 27.7

Mg2+ 1,410 116.0

Sr2+ 5.1 0.1

Ba2+ 0 0.0

Fe Total 0.3 0.0

Total cations 645.4

ANIONS Cl- 20,690 583.6

HCO3- 137 2.2

CO32- 0 0.0

SO42- 2,850 59.4

SiO3- 0.5 0.0

Total anions 645.3

pH = 8.1 @ 20°C Density @ 15°C: 1.027 g/cm3 Total Dissolved Salts (calculated): 37,357 mg/l Total Dissolved Salts (measured): 37,560 mg/l

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4.3. GEOLOGY AND SOILS 4.3.1. Geology

A simplified Geological Map of Yemen showing the pipeline route from CPU to Balhaf is presented in Figure 4-4. The outcropping geologic units along the Main Line and Transfer Line are as follows:

• Quaternary Deposits are encountered in the Ramlat-As-Sabatayn desert, the southern coastal plains and the wadi beds. They include alluvial deposits, coastal and littoral deposits, reef deposits and aeolian deposits, with wide variations in lithology.

• Rock of the Tawilah Group of Jurassic age is present at the lower part of the plateau cliffs. This unit is mainly composed of non-fossiliferous porous and fissured sandstone. The total thickness of the formation is in the order of several hundreds of meters.

• Rock of the Hadramawt Group, of Paleocene/Eocene age is found above the Tawilah group on the Plateau. They consist of limestone, shales and evaporites. On the Plateau, they present a dolomitic facies.

• Quaternary Basalts have a local occurrence (Balhaf plant site). They include numerous volcanic cones. The hills of the site are volcanic cones, made up of ash, volcanic bombs, pyroclastic tuff and magma flow.

• Marine terraces are cut into the basalt of the Balhaf site at various elevations. The lower deposit is the present beach to the north-west of the peninsula. These terraces were found as high as 80 m above present sea level and thus reflect higher sea levels in Quaternary times.

4.3.2. Soils The different soil types along the Transfer line, the Main Line, and at the Balhaf site are related to the underlying geological formations. A summary of the soil types encountered follows.

CPU to KPU and KPU to KP 125: the Transfer Line and Main Line routes are located in Ramlat-As-Sabatayn desert, where Quaternary formations predominate. They consist of aeolian sand in the desert, gravely wadi alluvium in Wadi Jordin lower course and gravely deposits on the last kilometers before crossing the Plateau region. The sand is fine, typically smaller than 2 mm and contains less than 5% silt (0.075 mm). There is occasional gravel on the surface. Gravel comes from various origins, including limestone, sandstone and volcanic rock. It is subangular, and its dimensions vary from small 5 mm size to large pebbles. Very large size blocks are exceptionally observed on the steep slopes underneath the plateau cliff. Rare occurrences of silt are observed in the interdunary depressions in the desert and are believed to have deposited during the rare flooding events. This silty soil cover, which appears as white spots of the aerial photos, is not saline.

From KP 126 to KP 250 (approximately): the pipeline route is located on the flat top of a Plateau formed by rock of Tawilah Group of Cretaceous age and Hadramawt Group of Tertiary age. The top of the cliff is formed by Tertiary whitish limestone and dolomitic limestone of chalky aspect, massive and resistant. Its thickness could reach 200 m. The Plateau is accessed on both sides (KP 125 and KP 205) by vertical cliffs in the sandstone and dolomitic limestone. Clay may occasionally be encountered on the Plateau as a fine green clay layer.

2000kmN

1800kmN

1600kmN

1400kmN

40

0km

E

60

0km

E

80

0km

E

20

0km

E

40

0km

E

60

0km

E

From "THE WATER RESOURCES OF YEMEN"

TNO INSTITUTE OF APPLIED GEOSCIENCE

DELFT, NETHERLANDS

YLNG PROJECT GEOLOGICAL SETTING

LEGEND

QUATERNARY

TERTIARY

CRETACEOUS

JURASSIC

PERMIAN

ORDOVICIAN

PRECAMBRIAN

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG


MA

N LINE

I

K P U

BAL HAF

LNG

PLANT SITE

C P U

TRANSFER

LINE

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Ref.

See barscale

LYO

February 2006

JLL

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This clay is plastic, and is used by the local people to line their water collection ponds. The pipeline route is located close to a quarry of this green clay on the Plateau.

From KP 206 to KP 235: after the Plateau exit, the route continues on hilly ground of Cretaceous sandstone. Toward KP 230 - KP 235 it encounters an outcrop of proterozoic granite.

From KP 240 to KP 320: the coastal plain is a depression filled by coarse grain sand in the upper part. Quaternary alluvial fan and terraces, sand cover and some sand dunes of barkhanoid shape are predominant after KP 260, along with marine terraces at approximately an elevation of 50 m, with coral and pelecypod remnants in a soft beige sandstone.

The last kilometers of the pipeline route and the Balhaf site consist of black quaternary basalt. Brownish hills are scories and lapillis accumulations. The ground surface of most of the Balhaf site is covered with a layer of basalt pebbles underlain by massive basalt rock. Sand deposited by wind is trapped between the pebbles. Remnants of cemented old marine beach deposits are encroached on the slopes of the basalt outcrops. The present beach deposit extends over the north-west part of the peninsula.

Soil chemistry was determined on soil samples during the 1997 baseline survey and with confirmation samples during the September 2005 terrestrial survey. The results of the 2005 survey confirm the findings of the 1997 baseline. Soils are typically sandy, with occasional clay deposits on the plateau. TPH are in the range of 20 to 200 mg/kg. Metal concentrations are below laboratory detection limits for Mercury and Cadmium and below background level for the other metals analyzed.

4.3.3. Natural Geologic Hazards

4.3.3.1. Seismicity and Faults Yemen has historically been affected by earthquakes, with the most recent and damaging one being the Ms=6.0 event of 1982 in Dahmar. Yemen is located close to the triple junction between three plate boundaries: the Red Sea Rift, the Gulf of Aden Rift and the Ethiopian Rift. These three plates are seismic sources for Yemen. The major seismogenic sources are offshore in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. Inland, some of the known faults may be responsible for historical earthquakes. Historical earthquakes are recorded in the region of Marib, Dhamar, Sana’a, the west Tihama coast plain, Aden and the Sa’dah region to the north. In addition to the earthquakes, Quaternary volcanic activity is known in the Sana’a, Dhamar and Marib areas. The recent volcanic activity is attested by the young volcanoes, hot springs and fumaroles. However, the volcanic basalt flows in the Balhaf area are much older and no longer active.

The Main Line and the Transfer Line do not cross any suspected active faults. The coastal plain and the Balhaf plant site are under the influence of distant offshore sources in the Gulf of Aden. Thus, the seismicity along the pipeline route is low. The Geodia report reference indicates a Peak Ground Acceleration (PGA) of 0.09 g at KPU decreasing to 0.03 g on the coast.

There is no present volcanic activity at the Balhaf site.

4.3.3.2. Slope Stability and Rock Falls Generally, the natural ground on the Main Line and Transfer Line route is flat. On the Main Line, two areas have risk of slope stability and rock falls: the access to the Plateau (KP 134 to 138) and the exit from the Plateau (KP 198 to 203). Both of these areas include vertical cliffs, hanging blocks of limestone, steep slopes covered with fallen blocks.

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4.3.3.3. Soil Erosion Soil erosion is considered most likely to occur in the following areas:

• Access and exit to the Plateau and in the hilly terrains from KP 210 to 225, due to steep slopes;

• Sand dunes, Main Line KP 0 to KP 65 and Transfer Line, by soil displacement under wind action which could uncover the pipeline.

There are no geologic hazards at the Balhaf site.

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4.4. WATER RESOURCES 4.4.1. Surface Water

Drainage Characteristics The Main Line and Transfer Line will cross two hydrological basins:

• The Arabian Sea Basin in which the Ramlat-As-Sabatayn desert is located. The Ramlat-As-Sabatayn is an area of run-off percolation because water from the mountain drains towards the desert. The main wadi in this basin along the Main Line is Wadi Jordin;

• The Gulf of Aden basin. The main wadis of this basin are Wadi Maifa'h (of which Wadi Salmoon and Wadi Mahyid are tributaries) and Wadi Rafad.

Potential Flooding Areas The floods of the wadis in Yemen are generally characterized by abruptly rising peaks that rapidly recede. In between the irregular floods, the wadis are either dry or carry only minor base flows.

Records of instantaneous peak flow rates are very limited in Yemen. Thus, Maximum Probable Floods (MPF) of the wadis along the Main Line were estimated using empirical formulas, based on the catchment sizes and the hydrologic characteristics of the catchment areas. The approximate catchment sizes and estimated MPF (WCI, 1997) of the major wadis crossed by the pipeline routes are presented in Table 4-7.

There is no permanent surface water in Balhaf. Surface water may be occasionally present in a small wadi at the north of the site, after rain storms. There are some wetlands at the west area.

The following is a description of each major wadi located along the pipeline route during the 1997 environmental baseline survey. Figures 4-5 and 4-6 present the catchments area and the wadi locations.

Wadi Jordin within the Main Line area, has a moderate size catchment area and estimated MPF of 1,313 m3/s. The lower reach of the wadi is 1.5 km-wide with numerous channels up to 100 m-wide and low gradient of approximately 0.4%. As a result, flood flow velocities are anticipated to be low. The mid reach of the wadi is approximately 1 km wide with several channels up to 50 m wide and a low gradient of approximately 1%. Flood flow velocities at the mid-reach crossing may be significant in terms of channel erosion. A large flood occured in September 2005 with damages witnessed during the terrestrial survey to the wadi banks and vegetation on the upper course of the wadi, upstream from the pipeline route crossing.

Wadi Salmoon/Ash Shi'bayn, in the area of the Main Line route from approximately KP 200 to 210, has a moderate size catchment area and an estimated MPF of 952 m3/s.

Wadi Rafad, on the coastal plain, crossed by the Main Line at KP 310, it has a moderate catchment area and an estimated MPF of 1,848 m3/s. At the pipeline crossing, the wadi is approximately 10 km wide with numerous channels. These channels have a slope of approximately 1%. Observations were made of a bridge on the coastal road damaged by a large flood which occurred in March 1997.

In addition to the wadis described above, other minor wadis and drainage channels are crossed by the pipeline route as shown in Figures 4-5 and 4-6. In general, the flood flow velocities are anticipated to be low in the flatter areas of the Transfer Line and of the Main Line between KP 0 to KP 120 and KP 240 to KP 320.

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Higher flood flow velocities are expected in the steeper areas between KP 120 and KP 240 along the Main Line and may be significant in terms of channel erosion and impact on the pipeline.

Other surface water bodies encountered along the Main Line include water ponds on the plateau that collects run-off in reservoirs built with clay from borrow pits. Two new lined reservoirs were observed near KP 151 during the September 2005 survey.

Superficial Water Quality Six surface water samples (from reservoirs collecting surface water, wadis and ponds) were collected and analysed as part of the 1997 environmental baseline survey. During the September 2005 terrestrial survey, one sample of surface water was collected in a water pond on the plateau. The analytical tests on the water samples were the major anions, metals, nitrate and dissolved oxygen. The results of the 2005 sample confirm the findings of the 1997 baseline survey. Surface water of ponds on the Plateau and temporary flood waters in the wadis have low mineralization (≅ 200 to 600 µS/cm, bicarbonate type water). The concentrations of metals are below laboratory detection limit for Arsenic, Mercury, Chromium, Nickel and lead and below background level for the other metals analyzed.

During floods, the sediment transport by the wadis is considerable. All floods observed in the wadis are reportedly yellowish-brown in color due to the high load of suspended sediment. Water becomes clear again when the wadi resumes its base flow. Bed load is also very significant, especially in wadis with a steep gradient such as those descending from the mountain slopes.

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MAXIMUM PROBABLE FLOOD (MPF) Pipeline Route

Major Wadi Crossing Approximate Kilometric Point at Crossing

Approximate Wadi Elevation above MSL (m)

Approximate Catchment Length (km)

Approximate Catchment Area (km2)

Estimated MPF (m3/s)

Maximum At Crossing

Transfer Line

(None) - - - - - -

Main Line

Jordin lower reach

Jordin mid-reach

Ash Shi’bayn mid-reach

Ash Shi’bayn mid to lower reach

Ash Shi’bayn lower reach

Ash Shi’bayn lower reach

Rafad lower reach

KP 102

KP 125

KP 207

KP 214

KP 217

KP 219

KP 310

1,700

1,700

1,700

1,700

1,700

1,700

1,750

850

1,000

800

730

700

650

10

63

108

30

35

40

45

40

550

550

300

325

350

350

1,100

1,313

1,313

952

994

1,035

1,035

1,848

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4.4.2. Groundwater

General Hydrogeology In Yemen large variations in hydrological conditions lead to a great diversity of groundwater systems. Along the Main Line and Transfer Line, three types of aquifers are encountered, they are listed below:

• Alluvial wadi aquifer

• Quaternary aquifers of plains, alluvial fans and deltas

• Mukalla sandstone aquifer.

• Only saline water can be found at shallow depth under the Balhaf site and, to date, no water resources have been explored in deep aquifers under the Balhaf site.

These three aquifers are described below.

Alluvial wadi aquifer. Alluvial deposits in wadi valley bottoms constitute aquifers of limited dimensions. They are the most convenient sources of shallow subsurface water and until recently groundwater abstraction in Yemen was largely confined to this type of aquifer. The deposits are usually unsorted but coarse and uncemented, and, thus, are highly permeable. Their thickness tends to increase in downstream directions and normally does not exceed a few tens of meters.

Wadi aquifers have extremely favorable recharge conditions: their permeable deposits cause part of wadi floods to be intercepted by infiltration, and they may also collect water from springs and seepage zones along the wadi. But due to their small aquifer volumes and relatively high permeabilities they can be depleted during prolonged dry periods, especially in the higher parts of the wadi channel network.

The 1997 environmental baseline survey identified along the Main Line two wadis of small size which have a shallow aquifer of this type: one hand-dug well in Wadi Mahyid (this well was dry at the time of the survey in 1997) and one drilled well ELW-4 (see Figure 4-6 for location) in Wadi Salmoon with a water depth of 20 m. These wadis will be avoided by the pipeline route.

Quaternary aquifers of plains, alluvial fans and deltas. Quaternary aquifers of plains, alluvial fans and deltas are usually situated in the alluvial plain of larger wadis. They are actively recharged by these wadis, partly by subsurface flows (underflows) via the interconnected wadi fill aquifers. Recharge is concentrated in limited zones around the main wadi beds and produces “pockets” of relatively fresh water that laterally become increasingly saline.

In the regions of the Main Line, the most important representatives of this category of aquifers are the Quaternary aquifer complexes of the southern coastal plains and those at the western and southern edges of the Ramlat-As-Sabatayn. They also occur in isolated small tectonic basins scattered over the country (e.g. the highlands plains zone).

The 1997 and September 2005 environmental surveys identified aquifers of this type along the Main Line route on the coastal plain. They include:

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ELW6, 8

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YEMEN LNG


MAIN LINE KP160 TO KP320 AND BALHAFGEOLOGY AND WATER RESOURCES

Bir'Ali

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MAJOR WADI

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ELW-4WATER WELL WITH SAMPLE,

EXCEPTED SURFACE WATER:

ELW1 AND 2 (SPRING), ELW5

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• The aquifer of Wadi Rafad (KP 310), which is feeding a limited aquifer one spring was found downstream of the wadi, (see samples ELW1 for the spring and ELW2 for the reservoir on Figure 4-6); and

• The Wadi Maifa’ah aquifer, which opens to the large coastal plain sloping gently down towards the sea from an elevation of 700 m. The Quaternary series, composed of gravel-pebble material, unsorted sands and loams, constitutes an aquifer which is tens of meters-thick. It is underlain by Pliocene-Quaternary pebblestones and conglomerates cemented with a carbonate-clayey material. One recent well was identified at KP 225 during the September 2005 survey in the Wadi Maifa’ah aquifer in the area of the Main Line. The water was at a depth of 36 m (sample MLW05-3).

This aquifer has been traditionally collected in Yemen by a system of ghayls, which consist partly of tunnels a few meters below ground surface, partly of open canals running two or three meters below the general surface level. They intercept groundwater and convey it by gravity to distances of several kilometers. No ghayls have been observed along the Main Line route and on the Balhaf site during the 1997 environmental baseline survey.

The regional Mukalla Sandstone Aquifer: East of the shield and north of the Al Ghaydah basin and of the rifted zone along the Gulf of Aden is an extensive basin where thick strata of Mesozoic and Tertiary sediments have been deposited. This basin extends far northwards over the platform zone of the Arabian peninsula.

The Mukalla Sandstone, averaging 300-400 m in thickness, is widely present in this basin and forms a continuous regional aquifer of large lateral extent. In the western part (Ramlat-as-Sabatayn zone), it rests upon Jurassic sediments, a thick series containing saline water, and with oil-bearing zones. In the Ramlat-as-Sabatayn, it is overlain by Quaternary continental deposits, a few meters to more than 150 meters-thick and probably largely unsaturated. In the Plateau Region, it is capped by a thick sequence (around 300-400 m) of carbonate rocks.

The Mukalla Sandstone aquifer constitutes the largest groundwater system in Yemen, storing large quantities of groundwater. The Mukalla sandstones generally have high porosity and transmissivity (in the range of 3000 to 3500 m2/day). The Mukalla sandstone is in direct hydraulic contact with the overlying Quaternary deposits in the Ramlat As Sabatayn desert and, as a consequence, the two aquifers (Quaternary and Mukalla) form only one aquifer in this area.

Modern deep wells are tapping the Mukalla sandstone aquifer, mainly in the Ramlat As Sabatayn desert. During the 1997 environmental baseline survey, four wells (ELW7, ELW9, ELW10 and ELW11, see Figures 4-5 and 4-6) exploiting this aquifer have been identified at distances of less than 5 km of the Main Line. The depth to the water table in the wells ranges from 100 m to 500 m.

Groundwater quantities The following Table 4.8 shows order of magnitude of annual abstractions, recharges and available fresh water groundwater stored. It shows the importance of the Mukalla sandstones aquifer which is becoming the promising resource for the future of Yemen.

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TABLE 4-8 ABSTRACTION AND RECHARGE OF AQUIFERS

Aquifer Approximate abstraction Mm3/year

Approximate natural recharge Mm3/year

Fresh groundwater stored Mm3

Quaternary plain and wadis

1000 900 320,000

Extended Mukalla complex

600 500 10,000,000

Groundwater Quality Eight groundwater samples (4 from deep wells, 2 from hand dug wells and shallow drilled wells, 2 from a spring) were collected and analysed as part of the 1997 environmental baseline survey and four groundwater samples were collected and analysed during the Septmeber 2005 survey. The information stated below is based on these two sampling campaigns (See the two reports: 1997 environmental baseline survey and September 2005 validation terrestrial survey).

Wadi Fill Aquifer: Some contamination by metals (Hg in one shallow well) was observed in the wadi Salmoon aquifer which is recharged from the limestone mountain. The water salinity was low (conductivity less than 500 µS/cm). No dominant water type could be defined from the samples analysed.

Coastal Plain Aquifer: The spring in the coastal plain, probably collecting water from Wadi Rafad catchment basin in low mountain, shows a mineralized water (1,600 to 2000 µS/cm) in which sulfate is the dominant anion. No metals were detected.

Mukalla Sandstone Aquifer: The deep aquifer (between 100 and +500 m) of the desert contains mineralized water with conductivity values between 1,300 and 1,800 µS/cm (in which chloride is the major anion). Contamination by nitrate was observed (the origin is either geological or due to diffuse pollution from agriculture activities). The groundwater quality is reported to be good (mineral content generally below 1000 mg/l).

Coastal Wadi fill Aquifer: In the Balhaf area the superficial aquifer is saline (conductivity measured in one sample: 53 700 µS/cm) probably reflecting marine intrusion. Low concentration of dissolved oxygen and detectable concentration of metals (Pb and Zn) were also detected in this area.

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4.5. BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT 4.5.1. Flora

The flora in Yemen is especially rich, with an estimated 1,700 plant species present in a wide variety of ecological habitats (Rands 1992). Biological diversity in the mountain foothills and coastal plains near the coast is generally higher than in the desert as a result of the relatively high rainfall and resulting high vegetation productivity. A total of 74 plant species were identified during the 1997 terrestrial baseline survey (WCI, 1997). Among them, 10 are endemic to the South Arabian Peninsula, one is endemic to Yemen, and two species are endangered species, Dracaena serrulata and Livistonia carinenesis. A complete list of plants observed during the 1997 terrestrial survey is presented in Table 4-9.

Along the Main Line corridor from CPU to Balhaf, the vegetation units are:

• Medium Altitude Mountains (MAM)

• Large Wadis Cutting Mountains (WM)

• Desert Plain (DP)

- - Sand Desert Plain (Dps)

- - Gravel Desert Plain (Dpg)

• Wadis in the Desert (WD)

- - Sand Desert Wadis (Wds)

- - Gravel Desert Wadis (Wdg)

• Lower Coastal Plain (Indic Sea Tihama) (T).

Each of these vegetation units is described below.

Medium altitude mountains (MAM) These areas are located from 1,800 to approximately 1,200 m.a.s.l. and correspond to the access to the Plateau. Vegetation is usually scarce (dwarf-shrubs and annual grasses) although it can be well developed and evergreen in the wadis, where rainwater is accumulated.

The dominant vegetation consists of the shrub species Commiphora sp pl and Acacia sp. Also some Euphorbia (E. inarticulata), Periploca aphylla and Alohe sp. appear on the slopes. Annual grasses such as Aristida spp and Stipagrostis spp and several perennial grasses occur elsewhere. The most conspicuous plant species in this region is the dragon-blood tree (Dracaena serrulata), which has been intensively exploited and is now only common on inaccessible cliffs.

Large wadis cutting mountains (WM) This unit includes three large wadis: Wadi Salmoon, Wadi Mahyid and Wadi Jordin. The vegetation of these wadis is very rich and diverse. Large trees such as Zizyphus spina christi, Ficus cordata ssp. salicifolia, Anogeissus bentii and Trichilia emetica and the palm Livistonia carinensis occur mainly along the wadi banks providing shade. Other species grow in the driest parts of the wadis, such as the trees and shrubs Tamarix sp, Zizyphus leucodermis, A. mellifera, and A. eherenbergiana.

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There are many old areas of agricultural land along the wadis cultivated according to traditional systems. In these lands, common species occur such as Fagonia indica and Solanum sp.

Desert plain (DP) The desert plain type consists of a large sand dune field of aeolian origin and flat alluvial terraces (gravel plains) dissected by wadis. The average rainfall is 50-100 mm and humidity is very low.

The vegetation of the sand desert plain type (DPs) is scarce and the species diversity is very low. Typical species include Calligonum crinitum ssp. arabicum, Calotropis procera, Aerva javanica, Fagonia indica, Dipterygium glaucum and Panicum turgidum. D. glaucum and C. crinitum are the only species found in very mobile dunes, where the first grows mainly along the base and the second on the top. P. turgidum is characteristic of firmer sand. In the gravel plains (DPg), vegetation is concentrated in scattered patches where sand has been deposited. The characteristic vegetation of this landscape is made of shrubs of Commiphora sp, and Maerua crassifolia, and perennial grasses like Pennisetum divisum and Desmostachya bipinnata.

Wadis in the desert (WD) Large meandering wadis coming from the western mountains and the Plateau are very frequent, mainly in the alluvial plain. In these wadis, in which water is present underground and is available to plants, vegetation can be rich and diverse. The dominant species is Acacia tortilis which forms an extensive evergreen woodland with several shrub and dwarf-shrub species such as Commiphora sp., Maerua crassifolia, Pennisetum divisum, Dipterygium glaucum, Aerva javanica, Tamarix spp and Rhazia sticta.

The vegetation of these wadi areas is important since the trees (Acacia tortilis) provide excellent firewood, have foliage with a high nutritive value and fruit which is an important source of fodder during the dry season. Perennial grasses and dwarf-shrub species are an important grazing resource in the rainy season.

Lower coastal plain (Indic Sea Tihama) (T) This area extends from an elevation of 200 m.a.s.l. to the sea. Vegetation of the sand dunes is similar to that of the desert. However, there are some characteristic species such as Cleome macradenia, Odissea mucronata, Taverniera spartea and Juncus rigidus. The areas under the influence of fresh groundwater wells show great vegetation development, of which the date palm (Phoenix dactilifera) is the most significant species.

Near the coast there are coastal dunes and sabkha’s. Extremely saline conditions prevail in the sabkha’s because of the high groundwater table and intense evaporation at the surface. Thus, a hard saline crust is formed supporting only adapted halophytic species, such as the dwarf-shrub Limonium cylindrifolium. Coastal dunes are characterized by Salvadora persica on the top of the dunes and large shrubs of Odissea mucronata in the interdunary areas. Accompanying species are Aerva javanica, Panicum turgidum and Tephrosia apollinea. This vegetation can only support extensive grazing by camels and goats.

Balhaf LNG Plant Site The vegetation of the site is of Tihama type (T), which grows on the coast. However, the vegetation is rare on the basalt outcrops. Small areas of vegetation around the broken up surface provides some information about the natural vegetation in the area.

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West areas are temporary wetlands (sabkha’s), heavily salinized. The plant community is a dwarf-shrub land dominated by Limonium cylindrifolium. In areas were the water table is deeper and less salinized, the dominant species are Odissea mucronata and Salvadora persica.

There are at least two small areas with Prosopis juliflora trees, one in the access to Balhaf Plant site, and the other in the Plant site itself. These trees were well developed in 1997, however they were found in poor condition during the September 2005 survey (see photographic documentation).

East of the Plant Site, there is a small area with a dense dwarf-shrub land. Its species composition is Juncus conglomeratus, Tephrosia apollinea, Panicum turgidum and Euphorbia riebeckii. Northeast of the plant site, on the hill covered by sand and volcanic rock, Juncus conglomeratus was observed.

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TABLE 4-9

LIST OF PLANTS OBSERVED DURING THE 1997 TERRESTRIAL BASELINE SURVEY Species

Latin Name

Vegetation Unit Status

Acacia asak MAM, WM A. mellifera MAM, WM, WD A. oerfota MAM, WM, WD A. tortilis MAM, WM, WD, DP, T Aerva javanica var. bovei MAM, WM, T Alohe sp. MAM Anisotes trisulcus WM, WD S.A. ENDEMIC Anogeissus bentii WM Y. ENDEMIC Astenatherum forskahlei DPs Barleria cf. trispinosa MAM Boscia arabica MAM S.A. ENDEMIC Caesalpinia erianthera MAM Calotropis procera WM, DP, WD, T Calligonum crinitum ssp. arabicum DPs, WDs, T S.A. ENDEMIC Caralluma cf. penicillata MAM Caralluma sp. MAM Cassia italica T C. senaa DP Citrullus colocynthis DP, WD, T Cleome cf. brachicarpa DP C. macradenia DP S.A. ENDEMIC Commiphora spp. MAM, WM, WD Crotalaria aegyptiaca DP, T Cyperus conglomeratus DP Dipterygium glaucum DP, WD, T Dracaena serrulata MAM ENDANGERED Echinops sp. MAM Euphorbia balsamifera. MAM E. inarticulata MAM S.A. ENDEMIC E. riebeckii T S.A. ENDEMIC E. schimperi MAM Fagonia indica MAM, HAM, WD, DP, WM, T Ficus cordata ssp. salicifolia MAM, WM Heliotropium fartakense MAM, DP S.A. ENDEMIC Iphiona sp. MAM Juncus conglomeratus T J. rigidus WM, DP, T Kleinia odora MAM, WM Lasiurus hirsutus DP Lavandula pubescens MAM Limonium cylindrifolium T Lineum arabicum DP S.A. ENDEMIC

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Species

Latin Name

Vegetation Unit Status

Livistonia carinenesis WM ENDEMIC, ENDANGERED

Ochrademus arabicus MAM S.A. ENDEMIC Odissea mucronata T, WM Panicum turgidum T, WD Periploca aphylla MAM Phoenix dactilifera MAM, T, WM Pinchia dioscorides WM Prosopis juliflora T Psiaclia arabica MAM Pulicaria crispa DPs P. cylindrica MAM, WM S.A. ENDEMIC Rhazya sticta MAM, WM, DP, WD, T Salsola spinescens T Salvadora persica MAM, T Sansevieria ehrenbergii MAM, WM Sarcostemma cf. virginale MAM, WM Seddera cf. latifolia MAM Solanum incanum MAM, WM Stipagrostis sp. MAM, WM, DP, WD Suaeda aegyptiaca WD Tamarix aphylla WD Tamarix sp. WD Taverniera sp. DP Taverniera spartea T Tephrosia apollinea T, WD, DP Trichilia emetica WM Zizyphus leucodermis WM, WD Z. spina christi HAM, MAM, WM, WD Zygophyllum cf. prismaticum MAM, WM Zygophyllum sp. MAM, WM

S.A. ENDEMIC = South Arabian Endemic Y. ENDEMIC = Yemen Endemic

4.5.2. Fauna

The fauna of Yemen is also rich as a direct consequence of the large range of plant communities and potential habitats present. The situation for the fauna is similar to that for the plants. A total of 42 bird species, 16 mammals, and 6 reptiles was observed or indirectly identified as present along the pipelines. The presence of certain endangered animal species (a total of 15 mammals and 17 birds) are registered in Yemen (Rands, 1992) cannot be ruled out. Of special concern are Wolf (Canis lupus), Dorcas Gazelle (Gazella dorcas), Arabian Gazelle (G. gazella), Queen of Sheba Gazelle (G. bilkis), Striped Hyaena (Hyaena hyaena), and Hamadryas Baboon (Papio Hamadryas). Another potentially affected habitat includes the coastal plains where mainly seabirds and waterbirds have their resting and nesting areas.

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The Arabian Bustard (Ardeotis arabs) occurs in the Red Sea and could extend its distribution toward the east. This species is of special significance in Yemen, because this population is the only self-sustaining population within the Arabian Peninsula. A complete list of animals likely to be present along the pipeline route and Balhaf site is presented as Table 4-10.

Mountains Mountains and highlands show a great diversity of habitats, and, therefore, support the richest fauna of Yemen. Also, many areas that have not been affected by human activities, for example the steep slopes of the Plateau, and so have allowed the persistence of refugia and therefore important species and endemism.

Large mammals have been seriously depleted and the loss of some species is probably irreversible. The major cause of this depletion is the increase in access to remote areas and the widespread availability of high powered rifles. A farmer interviewed at the Plateau (KP 204) referred to the presence of Wolf in the area, although indicating that it was not abundant. The small mammal fauna has not been affected so much, and it is possible to find White-tailed Mongoose, Caracal, Ethiopian Hedgehog, Mouse Tailed Bats (in caves) and rodents (at least one jird and two gerbils unique in south-west Arabia are present in the steep slopes of the Tihama foothills). Baboons could also occur in the Plateau, since they live in similar environments of the western mountains, and their presence throughout the southern Jol area has been reported by Bedouin tribesmen (COP, 1993); however, the status of this species in the area of the Project is unknown.

Highlands are the areas where the greatest number of endemic birds occur in Yemen (12 species in south-west Arabia), including Arabian Woodpecker, Yemen Thrush, Yemen Warbler, Arabian Serin, and Yemen Linnet. Raptors are abundant (almost 30 species, including residents and migrants). Lammergeiers could also occur in the Plateau, and should be protected as it is a Red Book species (IUCN) and globally threatened.

Reptiles are abundant in the highlands and mountains. However, very little information about them appears in the specialized literature. In the mountains crossed by the pipeline route, small reptiles (gekkonidae, agamidae and vipers) can be expected.

Desert In the open desert, mammal species are scarce, gazelles being the only large wild ruminants. There are, however, a number of predators such as wolf, wild cat, sand fox, red fox, and there is also the possibility that the sand cat may be present. This apparent diversity of small predators, and the lack of mammal species on which they might be expected to subsist, may at first seem paradoxical, however, the explanation is related to periodic expansion of the rodent population (gerbils), and the large numbers of insects and reptiles. In wadi areas, Striped Hyena and Hare can also occur. Jackal is characteristic near human settlements.

Birds are also rare in the open desert, the majority of species being associated with the wadi areas and agricultural fields. During this survey, a Desert Wheatear was seen in a sand desert area (Spur line: KP 73) and a flock of Sand Partridge (Main Line: KP 124) in a gravel desert area. However, there are other species potentially present in sand and gravel desert areas such as the lark (Short-toed Lark, Hoopoe Lark, desert lark), Sand Grouse and Cream-colored Course. In wadi areas, other species can also occur, such as Honey Buzzard, Stone curlew, shrikes and Brown-necked Raven.

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In many of the visited sandy sites, there were a huge density of tracks and burrows of lizards and snakes; the only observed species was the Toad-headed Agama (see photographic documentation), but according to the literature consulted, approximately five species of lizards and five species of snakes can also occur. Among the snakes, the most probable species in desert areas are the boidae Eryx jayakeri, the colubridae Psammophis schocari (very toxic although non-lethal), the elapidae Naja haje arabica (toxic), and the viperidaes Echis coloratus (the most dangerous) and Cerastes gaspareti.

Coast and Tihama The expected list of mammals in the Indic Tihama should be similar to that of the desert. The coast has a very distinctive fauna associated with the presence of waterbirds, associated with the coast and ocean.

The coast of Yemen is an important feeding and breeding area for marine waterbirds. Waterbirds also include wading birds, which occur mainly where wadis reach the sea.

The mudflats are particularly important for Crab Plover, Greater Sand Plover, Lesser Sand Plover, Sanderling, Little Stint, Curlew Sandpiper, Bar-tailed Godwit, Gray Plover and Redshank. Storks, herons and egrets also occur during migration in small to moderate numbers. During the EIA surveys, Western Reef Heron, Gray Heron and Redshank were seen in the Balhaf area.

Among the seabirds, the most significant are Red-billed Tropicbird, Masked Booby, Brown Booby, Sooty Gull and possibly White-Cheeked Tern. The globally threatened White-eyed Gull could also breed there. Many other species can occur, such as Herring Gull and Socotra Cormorant, which were observed during the field survey in Balhaf. The Socotra Cormorants was very common on the ocean.

Raptors are mainly represented by the Osprey, which is abundant in Balhaf area. Also Buzzard and Black Kite were seen.

The Arabian Bustard occurs in the Red Sea Tihama and could extend its distribution towards the east along the Indic Tihama; however, its status in the oriental part of Yemen is unknown. This species is important because the Yemen population is the only self-sustaining one within the Arabian Peninsula. This species is possibly currently threatened by hunting.

4.5.3. Sensitive Species

Sensitive species are indicated in Table 4-9 for the flora and Table 4-10 for the fauna.

Endemic Flora species The richest region in the Arabian peninsula for endemic species is South Yemen. In this area, about 7% of plant species are endemic, mainly belonging to the genera Aloe, Caralluma and Euphorbia. This is botanically the least-known area of Arabia, and possibly the least explored in SW Asia. Almost 40 endemic species are recorded in this region. A total of 12 endemic plants were recorded during the baseline survey.

Endangered Flora species Two plant species have been identified as endangered: the palm tree Livistonia carinensis and Dracaena serrulata. L. carinensis is recorded in the Red Data Book (Lucas & Synge, 1978) as vulnerable and probably endangered, under the name of Wissmannia carinenesis. The main threat to this species at the moment is from logging to provide timber for building.

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Dracaena serrulata is becoming a rare, relic isolated species. In the past, it was probably abundant and widespread, but today it has become rare due to overcutting. Its stem is used for the construction of bee-hives.

TABLE 4-10 LIST OF ANIMALS POTENTIALLY PRESENT IN THE PROJECT AREA

Species Latin Name Common Name Mountain Desert Coast and Tihama Tihama

Status

BIRDS

Phaethon aethereus Red-billed Tropicbird x

Sula dactylatra Masked Booby x

Sula leucogaster Brown Booby x

Phalacrocorax nigrogularis Socotra Cormoran x

Egretta gularis Western Reef Heron x

Ardea cinerea Gray Heron x

Pernis apivorus Honey Buzzard x

Milvus migrans Black Kite x x

Gypaetus barbatus Lammergeier x BI

Buteo buteo Buzzard x x

Pandion haliaetus Osprey x

Ammoperdix heyi Sand Partridge x

Ardeotis arabs Arabian Bustard x BI, RB, BL

Dromas ardeola Crab Plover x

Burhinus oedicnemus Stone Curlew x

Cursorius cursor Cream -colored Courser x

Charadrius mongulus Lesser Sand Plover x

Charadrius leschenaultii Greater Sand Plover x

Pluvialis squatarola Gray Plover x

Calidris alba Sanderling x

Calidris minuta Little Stint x

Calidris ferruginea Curlew Sandpiper x

Limosa limosa Black-tailed Godwit x

Tringa totanus Redshank x

Larus hemprichii Sooty Gull x BI, BL

Larus leucophthalmus White-eyed Gull x

Larus argentus Herring Gull x x

Sterna repressa White-cheeked Tern x x

Pterocles spp Sandgrouse

Streptopelia spp Dove x x x

Dendrocopos dorae Arabian Woodpecker x x BI, BL

Ammonames deserti Desert Lark x BI, BL

Alaemon alaudipes Hoopoe Lark x

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Species Latin Name Common Name Mountain Desert Coast and Tihama Tihama

Status

Calandrella brachydactyla Short-toed Lark

Oenanthe deserti Desert Wheatear

Turdus menachensis Yemen Thrush x

Parisoma buryi Turdus menachensis Yemen Thrush

x

Lanius collurio Red-backed Shrike x

Lanius excubitor Great Gray Shrike

Corvus ruficollis Brown-necked Raven

Serinus rothschildi Arabian Serin x BI

Carduelis yemenensis Yemen Linnet x BI

MAMMALS

Ethiopian hedgehog Paraechinus aethiopicus x x

Gazella gazella Arabian gazelle x C, R, D

Gazella subgutturosa marica

Sand gazelle x C, R, D,

Canis aureus Jackal x x R, D,

Canis lupus Wolf x x R, D

Vulpes vulpes arabica Red Fox

Vulpes ruepelli Sand Fox x C, R, D

Ichneumia albicauda White-tailed Mongoose x x C, D

Hyaena hyaena Striped Hyaena x D

Felis silvestris Wild Cat x

Felis margarita Sand cat x

Felis caracal Caracal x x R, D

Lepus capensis cheesmani Hare

Gerbillus nanus Baludistan Gerbil x x

Meriones rex King Jird x

Papio hamadryas Hamadryas Baboon x

REPTILES x

Pseudotrapelus sinaita Toad-headed Agama x

Eryx jayakari Boa x

Psammophis schokasi Sand Snake x

Naja haje arabica South Arabian Cobra x

Echis coloratus Carpet Viper

Cerastes cerastes Horned Viper

* endemic to south-west Arabia BI = internationally important numbers (breeding) : >20% of Arabian population RB = rare breeding (<300 pairs) BL = localised breeding, occuring in small number areas/habitats C = of commercial significance R = rare D = endangered

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4.5.4. Marine habitats at the Balhaf site

The following information regarding marine habitats at the Balhaf site has been updated to incorporate results from the most recent marine survey conducted by CREOCEAN in September 2005. The original 1997 baseline survey constituted a general approach of the marine habitats, which was updated and completed by the 2005 survey, focusing on coral and fishes communities (richness, biodiversity, and health condition)..

4.5.4.1. Sandy bottoms The sea floor at the Balhaf site is essentially composed of well-sorted sands occasionally mixed with fine particles (at depths greater than 40 m) or with shellfish or coral debris. The coastal rocky bottom is rapidly followed by sands (coastal detritic). A large number of coral reefs parallel to the coastline can be found between 3 and 15 m at depth and are occasionally built up to heights of 4.5 m (Figure 4-7).

Apart from the coral reefs, the environment is generally nutrient poor, both in terms of particulate matter (organic matter) and dissolved matter (nutrients). This is due to the absence of nutrient resources (no vegetation cover on land, no cultivations, no cities or towns). The particulate load observed in the water column and the fine particles found in the sediment are primarily of mineral origin (carried by winds or by exceptionally high floods). These inputs do not transport any significant amounts of heavy metals or hydrocarbons. Heavy metal concentrations which already were low in 1997 appeared to be twice lower in 2005. Hydrocarbons concentrations appeared to be below the detection limit both in 1997 and 2005.

Despite the limiting factor of low nutrient diversity, the sandy sediments provide shelter for a rich buried fauna, well diversified and balanced. Based on the 1997 survey, two hundred species were identified in the 17 sampling sites. The main groups were Worms (75 species), Crustaceans (45 species), Mollusks (50 species) and Echinoderms (10 species). Total densities were 2,500 individuals/m2 in the richest zones.

Crustaceans and mollusks are the best-represented Phyla. They are dominant east of Balhaf cape, where the physical and chemical analyses revealed a significant enrichment of the sediment by organic matter. The presence of this food source promotes the development of opportunistic species, primarily deposit feeders, such as the crustacean Ampelisca or the echinoderm Clypeaster cf. reticulatus, which are responsible for the increase in density and drop in diversity compared to the western zone.

Mollusks, particularly carnivorous species such as Marginella sp., are dominant throughout the western zone. Polychaeta are less well-represented in the zone as a whole, as they prefer a finer bottom than the crustaceans and the mollusks.

Sea turtles have been reported in the South coast of Yemen, in areas 100 km East of Balhaf (Figure 4-17) where sandy beaches could be used as nesting sites. The most abundant species is the green turtle (Chelonia mydas), while the Hawksbill turtle (Eremochelys imbricata) is less frequently observed. Turtles were observed in the sea during the coastal diving survey (Creocean) in September 2005, but the survey did not find evidence of turtle eggs on the shores of the Balhaf area which are rocky and thus inappropriate for nesting. No nesting evidence was either found on the sandy beaches located to the east and to the west of Balhaf cape.

Area F

Area D

Area E

Area D North

Area C

Area B

Area A

Area B West

Transects

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG


BALHAF MARINE BOTTOM OCCUPATION

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Ref.

See barscale

LYO

February 2006

JLL

43683552 Figure 4-7

Format

A3

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The 2002 World Bank/GEF funded PERSGA study "Survey of the proposed Marine Protected Area at Belhaf - BirAli, Republic of Yemen" (Kemp, Salem, Klaus et al) found that the key area for turtles was to the East of Balhaf at Ras Majdahah and at Hallaniyah and Sikka Islands (see Figure 19 of that study). A subsequent (in press) study funded by World Bank/GEF "Marine and Coastal Habitat Biodiversity Surveys - The Protected Areas of Bir Ali-Burum and Sharma-Jethmun" (Kemp, Klaus et al) confirmed this finding, noting that (page 7) "the most important turtle nesting areas are found throughout the western half of Pilot Area 2 (100km east of Mukalla)". In another study, the ‘Yemen first National Report to the Convention on Biological Diversity’, prepared by the Environment Protection Authority in cooperation with UNDP, October 2004 it was concluded that the most important nesting beach for turtles is at Ras Sharma, 200km east of Balhaf.

The eastern zone is subjected to a high amount of mixing of the water bodies and, thus, shows greater dispersion potentials than the western zone, which is more sheltered and exposed to accumulation. The eastern zone also displays more organic matter inputs from the nearby coral ecosystems. This leads to a more abundant nutrient source (proliferation of opportunistic species), as well as to a higher bottom-type heterogeneity and more unstable conditions for benthic fauna survival (disappearance of most sensitive species). The fauna found here is, thus, composed of more resistant organisms than those found in the west. The eastern zone contains both a highly resistant population and has higher physical dispersion capacities in the event of accidental pollution than those found in the west.

4.5.4.2. Coral reefs The coral reefs observed along the rocky coastline are fringing reefs. They were mostly found in coves where the hydrodynamic conditions are favorable. Here, the coral builders created large reefs full of small holes which support a wide variety of different animals.

The rocky zone differs in the east and west. In the east, from the cap Ras Al Asida located in the center of the Balhaf rocky outcrop to the east end of the study area, a dominant south-east swell flows along the coastline which induces water circulation caused by currents from the residual swell. This zone is quite turbulent due to the rough surf and these currents. In the west, from the volcano down to the beach, the currents flow parallel to the coastline from north to south, regardless of wind conditions. These current conditions are probably the reason why the coral reefs were formed.

The 2005 CREOCEAN survey appears as the most detailed and complete assessment of the coral reefs conducted to date in the Balhaf area (see areas A to F described in Figure 4.7). Based on this survey it appears that Balhaf coral communities present a high coral species diversity. A total of 73 hard coral species and 8 genera of reef cnidarians between soft corals and non-scleractinian reef builders were found in Balhaf. All the coral community types which have been described by other scientists along the Yemeni coast of the Gulf of Aden were observed during the Balhaf 2005 survey (representing 79% of the coral species known to occur between Dhofar (Oman) and Bab el Mandeb). An unreported species was additionally identified around the Balhaf headland (the monospecific giant Millepora assemblage, which was recorded in the shallower part of area C).

The 2005 survey showed that, due to local conditions, coral communities differ in terms of surface and depth extension, diversity, abundance or structure:

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Coral reefs to the east of Balhaf (Areas A, B and B West) Coral reefs to the east of Balhaf (Areas A, B and B West) benefit from favorable conditions. The swell currents are regular and perpendicular to the coast. The relatively high turbulent energy and the return currents from the residual swell “clean” the site and carry away fine particles, which in turn make deep coral growth possible. Corals in this zone are thus largely extended in surface and within the depth. The maximum depth limit is between 12 and 14 m. Coral reefs appear to be of medium diversity (51 and 54 species respectively for Areas A and B). Soft corals appeared not to be abundant but presented the highest diversity level of the studied zone (6 species). At the time of the 1997 survey, the more dominant species belonged to the Acropora genera, tabular as well as branched, forming in some parts extensive and remarkable banks. The September 2005 observations showed that these Acropora had died, probably due to the harmful episode of bleaching which concerned all the Indo-Pacific area in 1998. The zone remains however quite rich as many other species remains and as these destroyed species of Acropora are slowly re-colonizing the location (many young colonies, dated less than seven years were observed).

Coral reefs in the southern part (Area C) Coral reefs in the southern part (Area C) are characterized by the highest diversity (68 species) including tables of Acropora downing, a foliose colony of Montipora circumvallata and giant porites colonies. The average size of these colonies – up to 4 m – is also noticeable. An assemblage of giant honeycomb fire corral (Millepora) colonies was also encountered. Giant porites and Millepora colonies were identified at only one place in the Gulf of Aden (Sikha Island). No equivalent was recorded elsewhere along the Yemen coastline.

Coral reefs at the western side of the Balhaf site (Areas D, E and F) Coral reefs at the western side of the Balhaf site (Areas D, E and F) are narrower than those found in the western zone due to the lower hydrodynamics and higher water turbidity. They do not grow down to depth. Coral growth is linked to the presence of littoral currents flowing parallel to the coastline from north to south. These currents are probably stronger in the southern part of the zone. Thus Area D, located to the south-west, benefits from a high coral diversity of (63 species) constituting a complex and tridimensional habitat. Within Area D-North, the Arabian endemic Porites Harrisoni was recorded. Parasimplastrea sheppardi, and banks of Pocillopora damicornis were also observed. Such banks observed in tne Gulf of Aden and the Arabian Sea have been recorded in Yemen at Bir Ali. However, the Bir Ali banks have reportedly suffered from severe post-bleaching mortality in 1998 and have not recovered. Area D presents the most complex architectural design, due to biological agent for a part, but also by sandy sediment action due to hydrodynamic factors which erode the coral and form a network of galleries and cavities. The presence of numerous basaltic rocks completes the complexity of the sea bottom.

Areas E and F are characterized by a lower diversity (respectively 39 and 36 species). Porites colonies growing on the basaltic substrate at Area E appeared to be more healthy and dense than anywhere else in the studied zone. Density of the Porites bank offers cavities forming abundant micro-habitats. Corral communities at Area F presented the lowest diversity, bioconstruction and tridimensionality, thus offering fewer habitats.

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Conclusion on the 2005 coral survey Despite the evidence of past massive coral mortality, and reported presence of some coral bleaching in three of the seven areas, Balhaf corals were found healthy during the September 2005 survey. While many of the most sensitive coral community types found along Bir Ali and off shore islands coasts had suffered heavy to total mortality after the 1998 bleaching, in Balhaf, they were in good conditions, or recovering from only partial mortality.

Balhaf coral communities present high levels of structure diversity (high levels of bioconstruction, very complex and tridimensional benthic assemblages). This diversity can be explained by the combination of several positive factors such as the availability of hard substrate, a high degree of complexity of the coastline around the headland, and relatively undisturbed and unpolluted conditions for many centuries (see photographic documentation on coral).

Balhaf corals and coral communities have a high value for marine biology and Yemeni natural heritage. Balhaf corals, as part of the hard coral species forming reefs and coral communities, are internationally considered as sensitive to natural and human disturbances and regarded as endangered. Moreover species with a very restricted biogeographic range and/or forming communities that have suffered heavy mortality such as Acropora downingi, Montipora circumvallata, Porites harrisoni or Parasimplastrea sheppardi were found in Balhaf.

4.5.4.3. Fish Community Coral communities host a very high diversity of invertebrate and vertebrate animal species. From the Balhaf bay to the South, they especially form an attractive media for diverse species of large fishes as well as smaller ones. This zone associates locations favorable for the reproduction and other suitable for young fish growth. The 2005 survey thus showed that due to reproduction and recruitment favourable conditions, the area presents a wide fish species diversity level, associated with high abundance. The area appears to be of both ecological and economical value at the local and regional level.

During the 2005 survey, a total of 148 species of fish were recorded, belonging to 43 families all over Balhaf area. Taking into account the sampling conditions, the Balhaf area is estimated to be of rich fish diversity in comparison with other previously assessed areas in the same region (Al Mukalla, Bir Ali, Sikha Island). The total of species recorded on Balhaf area appears to be very high for relatively small sampled patches. World Fish Center organization gives a total number of 459 fish species for Yemen. Thus, Balhaf coral reefs shelter more than 30% of the global Yemeni fish number of species.

At an international level, the Balhaf area also appears to be of high level of diversity when compared to New Caledonia, while the New Caledonia lagoon is commonly recognized as having a very high biodiversity ecosystem.

At a local scale, the fish diversity strongly varied between the seven areas assessed along Balhaf Cape. It ranged between 46 and 87 species. Fish abundance was high, especially in the Western part of Balhaf Cape, and fish community was constituted by a high rate of large sized fishes. Despite this location is heavily exploited by fishermen between June and October, this fishery is widely sustainable, as shown by the abundance of old and large sized fishes. This highest richness was recorded in the area D-north and was the consequence of the heterogeneous bio-construction of corals. The presence of micro-habitats constitutes a favorable criterion for recruitment process.

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Major recruitment phenomenon was also observed in Areas E and F.

Local fishermen take advantage of this diversity and harvest large quantities of fish during the high seasons (June to September and also April-May). Fishing is practiced on both sides of Balhaf cape and in front of the cape at about 500 to 1,000 m from the shore, and up to the boundary of international waters. Two fish communities are exploited by fishermen: hard bottom species as Lutjanids and Lethrinids, and pelagic species as Carangids. Fishermen can find these two communities on the Western coast of the cape.

Over Balhaf area, the important reef species biomass, as well as the large size of species of high commercial value, indicate that this area constitutes a great reserve of reproduction power and genetic diversity. Eggs and larvae produced in Balhaf area can supply other far or isolated Yemeni coasts thanks to seasonal marine streams.

4.5.4.4. Environmental Sensitivity of marine habitats Environmental sensitivity differs among the various types of marine bottoms, as described in Table 4-11 below:

TABLE 4-11 ENVIRONMENTAL SENSITIVITY OF MARINE HABITATS

Type of marine bottom Sensitivity Rocky shore Medium

(This environment is relatively stable due to low species number and resistance capacity to stress. Nevertheless, it is very vulnerable to surface pollution.)

Sandy beach Low

(However, as it is located in the intertidal zone, it is vulnerable to hydrocarbon pollution. Its recovery capacity is relatively high.)

Internal reef side Medium

Porites reef High

(The references and local surveys revealed that this type of environment is rare on Yemen's south coast.)

Branched-Acropora reef High

(Branched Acropora are vulnerable to physical disturbance (breakage), but are characterized by rapid growth.)

Table-Acropora reef Medium

Offshore reef side Medium

Offshore sandy bottom Low

Low sensitivity zones are zones with both low diversity and low vulnerability. These include primarily the sandy bottom zones.

On the other extreme are the highly sensitive reef zones. Their sensitivity is due to their high faunal diversity (corals and fish) and their reduced surface area. These zones play an important role as fry nursery (protected zones for breeding and raising commercially valuable species) and occupy a restricted bathymetric level in sites with favorable current patterns.

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Slight modifications of the hydrological conditions in these zones can disrupt their fragile ecological balance and deteriorate them. The levels of resistance of coral reefs at high temperatures mainly depend on the conditions in which they have developed. Most corals on the Earth grow in tropical and sub-tropical environments that have a good temperature stability (as well as steady salinity). These corals are sensitive to any change, which makes them less resistant. Numerous examples of mortality due to a shift of about 1°C have been described in scientific reports.

At higher latitudes, seasonal fluctuations are more noticeable, and the marine environment is subject to bigger temperature fluctuations, up or down. These conditions entail individual resistance in some species as well as selection of the most resistant species, both phenomena’s resulting in a loss of biodiversity. The corals of the Persian Gulf, which are at higher latitudes, in a shallow enclosed sea, are considered as submitted to extreme conditions. They are among the most resistant on the Earth. Even though those found in the Gulf of Aden are located at lower latitudes and in open seas, they have a resistance similar to the world average. In these conditions the highest temperatures that corals can stand are between 29°C and 32°C, the latter being a maximum not to exceed over a long period of time. It should be noted that corals living in the deep sea (beyond 10 meters), in a steady environment, will resist less easily than corals found near the surface (within 10 m).

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4.6. NOISE 4.6.1. Noise Levels

Background, baseline noise levels were measured in and around the Balhaf LNG Plant area as part of the 1997 baseline survey. However, there are no noise data available for the pipeline alignment. In the absence of actual data, noise levels along the pipeline route have been estimated using various bibliographical sources. Typical noise levels for undeveloped areas are approximately 35 dBA Ldn . Because the alignment of the Main Line will primarily cross undeveloped, sparsely inhabited areas, typical existing noise levels near the pipeline route would, therefore probably be about 35 dBA Ldn.

The pipeline is routed in undeveloped, largely uninhabited or sparsely inhabited areas characterized by sand dunes and desert plains. Thus, noise sources in the Project Area are primarily related to the natural elements such as noise from the wind blowing through the local vegetation. In inhabited areas, noise sources include noise from livestock, and the sounds associated with rural village life (noise from agricultural activities, etc.). In areas where the pipeline route is adjacent to or near public roadways, vehicular noise is also a contributor to the overall noise environment. Noise levels at the Balhaf plant site ranged from 40 dBA (as measured at the south tower) to 60 dBA (at the north tower) during daytime hours, and from 30 dBA (at the south tower) to 45 dBA (at the north tower) during nighttime hours. The daytime noise levels were measured in the presence of nearby drilling activities from existing, on-going operations, while the nighttime operations were affected by the power generator at the drillers’ camp. Because the Balhaf LNG Plant will be located on the Gulf of Aden in a relatively undeveloped, largely uninhabited area, the typical existing noise levels near the Project site, without specific noise-producing activity, would therefore be expected to be in the 35 to 40 dBA Ldn range. Existing noise levels in the residential area located south-east of the southern plant boundary would be expected to be approximately 45 Ldn. The noise levels measured at the south tower location yield an Ldn of 46 dBA, while the measured noise levels at the north tower yield an Ldn of 59 dBA resulting from current, non-residential land use activity at both locations. A small development including hotel/commercial use and a mosque is located north of the site. Thus, the existing noise sources in the Project Area were primarily related to the moderate level of temporary drilling activity occurring at the time of the survey on and near the Project site, and low levels of activity associated with the hotel and mosque, and seasonal use of somewhat distant residential units located south-east of the Project site.

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4.6.2. Sensitive receptors

With a few exceptions, the pipeline route and surrounding areas are largely uninhabited by humans. Between Main Line KP 205 and KP 230, a few isolated houses and nomads are present. The nearest village is approximately 2 km from the pipeline route. Additionally, between Main Line KP 275 to Balhaf, a growing population of people was reported at a distance of approximately 2 to 3 km from the pipeline route. At the Balhaf site, a few residential structures located in the southern portion of the site as well as the few unoccupied houses south-east near the plant discharge point are scheduled to be demolished and, therefore, are not noise-sensitive receptors. Settlements are shown approximately 900 m north west of the Construction Camp site and two settlements are shown at approximately 700 m north-east and at approximately 1,000 m north-west of the Air Strip. A mosque, hotel, and restaurant are located approximately 650 m east of the Air Strip and west of the Construction Camp.

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4.7. SOCIO-ECONOMIC BASELINE 4.7.1. Surveys and Methodology

This section provides an introduction to the demographic, social and economic characteristics of the study that are relevant to the Project and its impacts, within the national and regional context. Its purpose is to provide a basis against which social and socio-economic impacts can be assessed, and against which comparisons can be made in future assessments of the Project impacts.

Methodology Information for this section was gathered through a series of socio-economic baseline surveys undertaken in the region over an eight (8) year period since 1996, and has been recently updated and supplemented through additional in-country survey work. These studies include:

• 2005 and 2006 2 phases of water and socio-economic surveys in the area of Balhaf (between Ein Bama’Abad and Bir Ali) by Yemeni consultants from NTDU and Ghayth. The purpose of these surveys is to understand the sustainability of a water project proposed by SFD (Social Fund for Development) to bring water form the springs of Ein Bama’Abad and Al Juwairi to the fishing village of Bir Ali.

• 2005 supplementary socio-economic survey work: undertaken during 2005 by local and international consultants and coordinated in country by the YLNG Sustainable Development Team.

• French Red Cross Field Survey of Water Resources in four Districts of the Shabwa Governorate. This study included a needs assessment of 25 communities: Rodhum, Jirdan, Ar-Rawdhah and Mayfa’ah areas with the aim of identifying potential areas for YLNG support of proposed water supply projects to build on and improve current infrastructure and supply.

• Survey along the pipeline by Mohsen Sarea YLNG Community Liaison officer, to update population data and to better define the needs in the different areas. The total number of villages in the vicinity of the pipeline route is 63 (settlements with less than 4 households not included). It must be noted that sometimes what has been called a village gathers several small settlements.

• MacAlister Elliott and Partner socio-economic study and consultation with the fishermen in vicinity of Balhaf to better understand for example, seasonal fishermen’s seasonal movements, the functioning of fishing associations, access to markets as well as to assess potential impact of Balhaf plant on fishing activities and to evaluate key areas for improvement and suggest alternatives.

• 2000 and 2001 Socio-Economic Survey: completed by 2 teams one conducted by R.Detalle, consultant from CEFAS, (Centre Francais d’Archeologie et de Sciences Sociales de Sana’a1) in 2001 entitled, “Socio-Economic Survey, Marib-Balhaf YLNG Pipeline Project, June 2001” and the other one conducted by a CSO team led by Yahya Yahya Marrany from CSO (Central Statistic organization), study called "Analytical study of Gas pipeline

1 Mr M. Detalle, consultant for CEFAS, Centre Français d’Archéologie de Sana’a

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area Marib-Shabwa sector”. This study present general socio-economic data relating to the several Directorates crossed by the pipeline route. This survey was designed to provide information about the inhabitants of an area 10 km wide (5 kms either side) along a length of 320 km, covering two Governorates, although work and information was concentrated on the Shabwa Governorate2. The targeted settlements were defined to correspond with locations in each Directorate within the Governorate bisected by the proposed pipeline crossing. From a total of one hundred and sixty-two (162) settlements3 within the four (4) key Directorates, ninety-four (94) settlements were surveyed. A detailed questionnaire was completed during the CSO survey. It must be noted that following the survey, the pipeline route was modified to avoid populated areas around Wadi Jirdan.

• 1997 Environmental Baseline Survey: conducted by Woodward Clyde in 1997 entitled, “Yemen LNG Company LT, Yemen LNG Project, Terrestrial and Coastal Environmental Baseline Survey, August 1997”. This study contained specific socio-economic data collected along the pipeline route during the environmental baseline survey. The socio-economic aspects of this survey, were obtained from bibliographical study, field observations and local resident interviews regarding agriculture, water well uses, fauna presence and hunting practices.

• 1996 Tribal Influence and Impact Report: a report on tribal influence along the proposed gas pipeline route. This report used the information obtained in an initial socio-economic questionnaire of tribes along the pipeline route. The report names areas of security concern or where conflict has occurred. It also provides advice on approaching and interacting with different tribal groups in specific locations along the proposed route.

• Stakeholder consultation: The information in this baseline supplemented through preliminary community and stakeholder consultations as part of the wider Public Consultation and Disclosure Plan detailed in section 7 of this ESIA.

• Data that could not be gathered from interviews or consultations were collected from publicly available sources, including census data, provided by the Central Statistic Organization in Sana’a’.

It should be noted that there is a lack of formal, consistent and comprehensive data collecting and recording processes at a regional and local level in Yemen. For example, demographic and associated data is only gathered every 10 years and much of the data from the 2004 census is not yet publicly available.

It should be also noted that it has been difficult to source recent demographic data broken down to Directorate level settlements for the purposes of baseline analysis of the pipeline route and plant area. For the above reasons any figures over a certain age contained within this socio-economic baseline section should at this stage be considered estimates.

2 The pipeline crosses from the Governorate of Marib and ends by the coastline in the Governorate of Shabwa. There are five Directorates bisected by the pipeline (one Directorate in Marib and four Directorates in Shabwa). Within the Safer Directorate in Marib, however, there are no settlements which lie near either side of the pipeline and therefore it was not considered impacted by the project and hence not included within the survey activities. See also section The Project Area 3 Excludes settlements containing less than four households

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4.7.2. Areas of Concern and Project Affected People

The Project area lies in the Shabwa and Marib Governorates and crosses five (5) Directorates (from the inland area to the coastal plain):

• Shabwa Governorate

− Rodhum

− Mayfa’ah

− Ar-Rawdhah

− Jirdan

• Marib Governorate

− Marib Al Wadi

The Project area including pipeline routes and plant areas are shown in Figures 3-1 and 3-5. Table 4-12 provides details on the Project area and the pipeline length in each Directorate.

TABLE 4-12 PROJECT AREA SHOWING PIPELINE LENGTH IN EACH DIRECTORATE

Directorate Pipeline length (km) Area (km2) Directorate center

Rodhum 43.44 665.1 Rodhum

Mayfa’ah 55.39 549.4 Jul Ar-raydah

Ar-Rawdhah 39.09 414.4 Ar-Rawdhah

Jirdan 103.93 1499.1 Ameeq

Marib Al Wadi 20.23 198.3 Marib

Total area 312.08 3326.3 - Source: Socio-Economic Survey, Marib-Balhaf YLNG Pipeline Project, June 2001.

The Project Area ranges between sea level in Rodhum Directorate to 1,646 meters above sea level at the Masane’a mountains in Ar-Rawdhah Directorate. The area’s geography is distributed into coastal, plain, mountainous and desert regions.

The LNG plant is located near Balhaf on the south coast of Yemen, approximately 140 km west of the port city of Al Mukalla, and 380 km east of Aden.

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Project Affected People Project Affected People (PAP) is a generic term concerning , according to OP4.12, ‘people who , as a result of the implementation of a project, loses the right to own, use or otherwise benefit from a built structure, land or any other fixed or moveable asset, either in full or in part, permanently or temporarily’

The Project Affected People is defined as covering the following six categories of people:

1. Those that will need resettlement (loss of a built structure) are;

• A family (13 persons) living during the rainy season in a small 2 bedroom house within the ROW near KP208. They raise goats and sheep, do some weaving and cultivate, during rainy season their land located 150m away from the pipeline.

• On Balhaf site two-story concrete house which was unoccupied, and temporarily used by the military and some shelters used by the fishermen especially during monsoon periods

2. Those that will lose cultivated land located within 30 m on either side of the pipeline center line (60 m wide) that will be exclusive YLNG use, are:

• The owners of two cultivated lands located close to KP180 and KP190, on the plateau

3. Those that cultivate land within 200 m on either side of the pipeline (restricted area where no future settlement will be allowed). They will be able to cultivate their fields but may encounter disturbances in relation to the pipeline construction. The ownership of these lands is being checked by the Land Compensation Committee , which is a Government Body;

• KP160 one cultivated area that does not appear to be in use anymore

• KP195, three cultivated areas between 60 m and 100 m from the pipeline center line

• KP208, one cultivated area 150 m from pipeline center line

4. Those that live within 200 m on either side of the pipeline (230 persons). These people will not have to be resettled but may encounter disturbance during the pipeline construction;

• KP140-145, three houses only occupied during rainy season (30 inhabitants)

• KP 150-155, five houses (70 inhabitants)

• KP 185, two houses (20 inhabitants)

• KP 190, two houses (25 inhabitants )

• KP 195, six houses (85 inhabitants )

5. Those that live in the vicinity of the valving station. 12 to 13 valving station will be built along the pipeline route. A 130 m x 130 m around these valving stations will be fenced and forbidden for use. The exact location to be confirmed during pre-construction survey that starts mid February 2006;

6. The people of the coastal area west of Balhaf (Al Ayn Bay) whose income is affected. Within Al Ayn Bay the only shelter for use during the monsoon season was Balhaf bay. The fishermen from Al Ayn Bay will lose Balhaf as

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shelter and landing place during the monsoon as well as its use as a fishing ground. According to 2004 CSO census 3449 persons live in Al Ayn Bay (including seven houses of Al Haybola at the western extremity of the bay). Approximately 75% of the population of Al Ayn Bay is directly affected which gives 2,587 inhabitants.

7. The people from the coastal area of Bir Ali (15 km east of Balhaf). Bir Ali is the main fishing harbor and auction place of Shabwa governorate. Some of the fishermen from Bir Ali are using Balhaf Bay for fishing and shelter during monsoon time.

8. According to CSO 2004 census Bir Ali 2084 people live permanently in Bir Ali. It is estimated that 50% of them were also using Balhaf Bay and are affected by the loss of Balhaf bay which gives a number of 1,042 inhabitants. During the monsoon time some other fishermen from other place of Yemen are coming to Bir Ali for fishing and some of them may have used Balhaf bay. It is considered that these migrant fishermen will be able to go fishing in other are than Balhaf and have not been counted in the PAP.

9. In addition to the PAP (3,872 inhabitants listed above), YLNG defines the PIIP (Project Indirectly Impacted People). These people are those living in the area crossed by the pipeline including the villages located in the Wadi up to 5 km from the pipeline. The total of this population (PAP+PIIP) according to 2004 CSO census is around 20,000 inhabitants.

Figure 4-8 presents the settlements in the Shabwa and Marib Governates. See also section 4.7.4.2 below for more detailed data on population distribution in the Project Affected Area.

4.7.3. Yemen National Context

The Republic of Yemen is an Arab, Islamic and independent sovereign state whose integrity is inviolable, and no part of which may be ceded. The people of Yemen are part of the Arab and Islamic nation.

The people of Yemen are the possessor and the source of power, which they exercise directly through public referendums and elections, or indirectly through the legislative, executive and judicial authorities, as well as through elected local councils.

The Republic of Yemen confirms its adherence to the UN Charter, the International Declaration of Human Rights, the Charter of the Arab League, and dogma of international law which are generally recognized.5

The Republic of Yemen is situated in the south of the Arabian peninsular, bounded to the north by Saudi Arabia, to the east by Oman, to the south by the Gulf of Aden and to the west by the Red Sea. The Republic was formed in May 1990 by the amalgamation of the Yemen Arab Republic (YAR) and the People’s Democratic Republic of Yemen (PDRY).

Figure 4-9 presents a summary of Yemen’s national statistics.

The national language is Arabic, which is spoken everywhere. Yemen’s population is almost entirely Muslim; mainly of the Sunni Shafi’a sect. The population is mainly rural but unlike other peoples of the Arabian Peninsula who have historically been nomads or semi-nomads, Yemenis are almost entirely sedentary and live in small villages and towns scattered throughout the highlands and coastal regions. Only around 24% of Yemen’s population

5 YLNG Advocate 22-07-05

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG


SETTLEMENTSIN SHABWAH AND MARIB

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ECONOMY:

GDP (US$ BN):

PURCHASING POWER PARITY - $16.25 BILLION

(CIA 2004 EST.)

GDP PER CAPITA (US$):

PURCHASING POWER PARITY - $800 (CIA 2004

EST.)

GDP REAL GROWTH RATE (%):

1.9% (CIA 2004 EST.)

POPULATION AND SOCIETY:

POPULATION SIZE (MILLION):

20,727,063 (CIA JULY 2005 EST.)

AVERAGE ANNUAL GROWTH RATE:

3.45% (CIA 2005 EST.)

LIFE EXPECTANCY AT BIRTH :

TOTAL POPULATION : 61.75 YEARS

MALE: 59.89 YEARS

FEMALE: 63.71 YEARS (CIA 2005 EST.)

EMPLOYMENT

TOTAL LABOR FORCE (MILLION):

5.98 MILLION (CIA 2004 EST.)

MOST PEOPLE ARE EMPLOYED IN AGRICULTURE

AND HERDING; SERVICES, CONSTRUCTION,INDUSTRY, AND COMMERCE ACCOUNT FOR

LESS THAN ONE-FOURTH OF THE LABOR

FORCE

UNEMPLOYMENT RATE:¹

35% (CIA 2003 EST.)

PRINCIPAL RELIGIONS

MUSLIM INCLUDING SHAF'I (SUNNI) AND ZAYDI

(SHI'A), SMALL NUMBERS OF JEWISH,CHRISTIAN, AND HINDU (CIA EST 2005)

STRUCTURE OF OUTPUT % OF GDP

AGRICULTURE: 15.0 (WB 2003 EST)

INDUSTRY: 40.0 (WB 2003 EST)

SERVICES: 45.0 (WB 2003 EST)

IMPORTS AS %OF GDP: 35.9

(W B 2003 EST)

EXPORTS AS %OF GDP: 31.2 (WB 2003 EST)

EDUCATION

ADULT LITERACY (%): 49.0 (WB2002 EST)

PRIMARY ENROLEMENT RATIO: 83.5 (WB 2002 EST)

SECONDARY ENROLEMENT RATIO: 47.3 (WB 2002

EST)

TERTIARY ENROLEMENT RATIO N11.2 (WB 2000 EST)

EXPENDITURE ON EDUCATION AS %OF GNP: 9.5 (WB

2000 EST)

PRIMARY PUPIL TEACHER RATIO:29.8 (WB 2000 EST)

HUMAN AND GENDER DEVELOPMENT:HDI Rank (2004):149 HDI Value (2002) 0.482

SOURCES:

HDR, CIA, UNDP; WORLD BANK

¹Note: In general, official unemployment figures are lower than the real figures owing to hidden unemployment. Therefore it can be assumed that the actual unemployment rate in Yemen is higher than that stated here.

YEMEN

MAIN LANGUAGE : ARABIC

CAPITAL : SANA’A

CURRENCY UNIT : RIYAL

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YEMEN NATIONAL STATISTICS

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inhabit its cities6. The largest of these, the capital Sana’a, situated in the northwest has a population of around 2,500,000 7.

The border dispute between Yemen and Saudi Arabia was amicably settled between the two countries through a treaty. The treaty established the border represented by points and for the demarcation process to be implemented through a joint committee representing both countries. Both countries agreed to the appointment of a German company to carry out the demarcation process, and demarcation work has commenced without apparent complications.

Until the demarcation process is finalised, the exact area of the country is moot; the surface of the country is around 500,000 square kilometers8. The country is some 450 kilometers from north to south and 300 kilometers or more from west to east, from the Red Sea coast through to mountains and plateau to the desert. The north is predominantly tribal with the major tribes of Hashid and Bakil occupying the northeast quadrant, from south of Sana’a on the Saudi Arabian border and from the edge of the plateau eastward to the desert.

4.7.3.1. Political structure and administration

The Republic of Yemen was established with the merger of the Yemen Arab Republic, (Sana’a’) or North Yemen and the People’s Democratic Republic of Yemen, (Aden) or South Yemen.

The Head of State since May 1990 President Ali Abdallah Salih, is the former president of North Yemen. He assumed office upon the unification of North and South Yemen. The Head of Government is the Prime Minister Abd al-Qadir Ba Jamal, who has been in office since April 2001. The Cabinet, the “Council of Ministers” is appointed by the Prime Minister. The President is elected by direct, popular vote for a seven-year term.

The political system of the Republic of Yemen is based on political and partisan pluralism in order to achieve a peaceful transformation of power. The Law stipulates rules and procedures required for the formation of political organizations and parties, and the exercise of political activity. Misuse of Governmental posts and public funds for the special interest of a specific party or organization is not permitted.

Legislative power is vested in a bicameral legislature, consisting of a Shura Council (111 seats - members appointed by the President) and a House of Representatives, with three-hundred and one (301) seats directly elected by universal adult suffrage (at 18 years old).

The country is divided into administrative divisions termed Governorates (muhafazat, or the singular muhafazah)9 and sub-divisions of these called Directorates and sub-Directorates.

Yemen is divided into twenty-one (21) Governorates. These are Abyan, ‘Adan, Ad Dali, Al Bayda, Al Hudaydah, Al Jawf, Al Mahrah, Al Mahwit, ‘Amran, Dhamar, Hadramawt, Hajjah, Ibb, Lahij, Ma’rib, Sa’dah, Sana’a, Shabwa, Ta’izz. For electoral and administrative purposes the capital city of Sana’a is treated as an additional Governorate.

6 http://www.yobserver.com. Report: Demand, Stockpiles and Social Controls: Small Arms in Yemen: Derek B Miller, 2003 7 www.europaworld.com ; Yemen Introductory Survey 8 YLNG Advocate 22-07-05 9 Paul Dresch, Tribes, Government and History ,1989: 22

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Each Governorate is made up of Directorates, villages and towns. In Yemen there are 335 Directorates. Shabwa has 17 Directorates and Marib has 1410.Figure 4-10 shows the pipeline location by Directorate Boundaries.

In relation to natural mineral resources the Constitution states as follows:

All types of natural resources and sources of energy, whether above ground, underground, in territorial waters, on the continental shelf or the exclusive economic zone are owned by the state, who assures their exploitation for the common good of the people.

The state's economic policy shall be based on scientific planning which ensures the best exploitation of all resources and the promotion of capabilities for all economic sectors in all socioeconomic fields of development and within the state's development plan which serves the common interest and the national economy.11

Each Governorate is headed by a Governor appointed by the President of the Republic.

Decentralization and local authorities Government policies addressing local governance and decentralization date back to at least 1995 when public sector reforms were aimed at democratizing Yemeni society and empowering local communities. The Local Authorities Law, passed in early 2000, initiated a comprehensive reform of the Yemeni Governance system through the establishment of three levels of Government: central, governorate and district. This led to the first ever election of Local Councils in 2001, in 332 Districts and 20 Governorates. The Local Authorities Law also provides a clear and comprehensive legislative framework for decentralization based on the following principles: (i) popular participation through elected councils; (ii) financial decentralization; (iii) decentralization of administrative and services delivery functions. Subsequently, about 400 councils and local administration staff received substantial training, accounting units were established to serve a number of local councils, and previously centralised budgets were transferred to all Governorates and a few districts. A Local Council at governorate level has three specialized Committees (Planning, Social Affairs and Finance) and an Administrative Board made up of the heads of the specialized Committees, the Secretary General, and the Governor who is the chairman of the local Council at governorate level. In addition to the Local Council there is an Executive Bureau composed of the Governor, as chairman, the Secretary General of the Local Council as deputy Governor and the head of the branches of the Ministries. The Bureau, inter alia, prepares the annual budget and the development plan, and supervises and follows up the implementation of projects. The offices of the ministries represented do not include fisheries. The issues pertaining to the fisheries sector and fishermen cooperatives are handled through the Office of Social Affairs.12

Local Council are elected in each Governorate, representing the entire Governorate and Directorates. In each District the organizational structure is similar to the one as the one at governorate level; the Local Council at District level has 3 specialized Committees and an Administrative Board. The Chairman, instead of being the Governor is the Director General of the District, appointed by the Governor.

10 CSO interim report “Primary Results of Population, Dwellings and Constructions 2004”. (In arabic only – available at YLNG) 11 YLNG Advocate 22-07-05 12 A. Bonfiglioli and K.I. Hariri, November 2004

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The constitution states as follows:

‘The territory of the Republic of Yemen is divided into administrative Units. The law shall identify their number, borders, divisions and the objective criteria for the administrative divisions. Also the law shall show the way for nominating, electing and selecting their chairpersons, and shall specify their functions and duties within their areas.

The administrative districts enjoy a nominal personality and shall have councils, which must be freely and fairly elected, both at the local and governorate level, which shall exercise their functions within the borders of the administrative area. They shall propose programmers, plans and investment budgets for the administrative district as well as supervise, monitor and audit the agencies of the local authority according to law. The law shall specify the means for nomination and election of the local authority, its administration and financial resources, the rights and duties of its members, its role in the execution of development plans and programmes and all other rules, through considering the adoption of the principle of administrative and financial decentralization as the foundation of local administration system.

All the administrative units and the local councils are an inseparable part of the power of the state. The governors shall be responsible before the President of the Republic and the Council of Ministers, whose decisions are obligatory to the districts and councils, which must execute them in all cases. The law defines the methods of control over the actions of the local councils’.13

The Government, by the standards of most Arab states, allows considerable autonomy to local organisations e.g. rural cooperatives (ta’awuniyyat, usually known in Western literature as Local Development Associations, or LDAs). A ‘confederation’ of these organisations, with its offices in Sana’a, was greatly strengthened in the early 1980s, but the cooperatives themselves remained locally staffed, elected and run. A broadly parallel organisation of local ‘committees’ was set up in 1982 to provide a unified system of political involvement culminating in a General Popular Congress.

These extensions of Government to the countryside are in formal terms the same throughout Yemen, but their powers are exercised very differently in different parts of the country. Certainly in the areas north of Sana’a, and east of the Plateau edge the divisions between tribes are more important than any lines drawn by Government14.

Tribal territory The whole northeast quadrant of Yemen is often referred to as the land of Hamdan’s two major divisions, bilad hashid wa-bakil, or simply as ‘the land of the tribes’ (bilad al-quba’il). This implied opposition between Hashid and Bakil dominates much of tribal discourse. These two major units are themselves simply ‘tribes’ (quba’il or qubul) but in political/administrational terms can be thought of as confederations.

The constituent tribes of each are quite numerous and an exhaustive list of them is not available. The population and territorial extent of these tribes vary greatly from one to the next, but the median population lies probably between 20,000 and 30,00015.

13 YLNG Advocate 22-07-05 14 Paul Dresch, Tribes, Government and History, 1989: 23

15 Paul Dresch Tribes, Government and History, 1989:22-24

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The ancestral system of tribes and sub-tribes, Sheikhs and Sheikhs of the Sheikhs is still in existence but has no official delegated power. That traditional system is however granted a certain degree of freedom to resolve inter tribal issues and disputes and is recognised as a representative body of the tribes, i.e. of the people in discussions over conflict and between people and the administration. The normal course of action to resolve an administrative issue would be to expect a normal resolution at local administration level, an intervention of the tribal system as a mediator in case of non-success, and in any case a decision by the official administrative system. The village/town council institution is a good example of the attempts to reconcile the two above systems: its members are elected by the population under strong tribal influence, while the council chairman is designated by the Head of the local government.

The influence of the Tribes is extremely variable depending on the areas. In the areas with which YLNG activities are concerned, the tribal influence is stronger in the Marib region than it is in Shabwa16.

It is very important for the Project to gain a good understanding of the different roles that make up the social and political structures governing Yemen e.g. of Governor, Sheikh, Sheikh of the Sheikhs and to clearly map/delineate the hierarchies of power and authority both in and between Governorates, Directorates and tribes. When put into practice, a good working knowledge of the ways in which these roles interact, and a familiarity with the protocols that govern their interactions, will facilitate cooperation and ultimately greater political stability in the regions to be affected by project development.

The Government has attempted to organise the tribal system and created a body called Tribal Affairs. Tribal Affairs appoints a head Sheikh named “General Manager of Tribal Affairs” in each Governorate. Such Sheikh notes the names of each Sheikh and the area the Sheikh is elected in by the members of the Tribe, as well as accepts the appointment of smaller Sheikhs having been voted in by the tribe members.

Tribal Affairs pays most of the Sheikhs in power a monthly salary. The salary amount varies in accordance with the seniority and importance of the Sheikh in relation to the size of the tribe he heads. Such system is more apparent in the Southern and Eastern Governorates, more than in the northern Governorates.17

Law Yemen’s constitution is based in the principle of the independence of the judiciary and identifies Islamic (Shari’a) law as the basis of all laws. Prior to 1990 there were two separate laws in existence in the Yemen namely the socialist based laws of The Peoples Democratic Republic of Yemen, and the Laws of The Yemen Arab Republic. After the unification of the two Yemen’s in 1990 new laws were enacted and put in place. The laws were put in place very quickly, without much study, and were generally adopted and copied from other jurisdictions.

Court Structure The Republic of Yemen has a three-tier court structure namely the Primary Courts, Courts of Appeal and the High Court. All cases are heard before the Primary Courts and appealed to the other higher tiers respectively. Commercial Cases are heard before the Commercial Courts, they too are structured in the same way into Primary, Appeal and High Court.

16 Discussions between YLNG management and a panel of YGC specialists (meeting in YLNG offices 30/06/05). 17 YLNG Advocate 22-07-05

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Judges As a result of the recent changes in the structure of the legal system of the Country, judges have been moved around within the courts in order to eliminate the wave of corruption within the system. This resulted in the allocation of judges with very little or no experience of commercial matters into the Commercial Courts.

Judges normally receive no formal training in commercial law, all the knowledge of commercial law they have is acquired by reading the relevant laws, handling cases, and by trial and error. The longer the judge remains in his position the more he will learn.18

4.7.3.2. Economy and industry

In relation to investment the constitution states as follows:

‘The state shall sponsor foreign trade and promote internal trade and investment in a way that serves the national economy. The state shall issue legislation that guarantees protection for producers and consumers, availability of basic commodities, restriction of monopoly and shall promote, according to the law, private capital investment in all socio-economic development fields and in accordance with law’.19

Yemen is one of the least developed countries in the world and ranks 148 out of 175 countries on the UNDP Human Development Index (2003). It has a per capita GDP of US$460. An estimated 42% of the people live in poverty and one in five is malnourished20.

Nevertheless, Yemen is in development terms now above the average of the lowest-income countries and has made development progress in recent years in many areas including basic education and health, access to safe water, roads and electrification, however still much more is needed to improve its social development indicators. Yemen made significant recoveries after the shocks of the Gulf war and civil wars of the 1990s, but its relative dependency on income from oil (oil income makes up some 80% of total Government revenue) meant that Yemen was also hit hard by the sharp fall in oil prices during the 1997-98 period21.

Yemen’s macroeconomic situation has improved greatly during the past decade and a world bank assisted stabilisation programme has been in place since 1995. Real GDP growth was 3.8% in 2003, moderately ahead of population growth, although non-oil sectors have grown more slowly which has not had positive implications for employment or income distribution22.

Major characteristics of the economy of Yemen include agriculture as the most important source of employment, a large labor force earning a living abroad, the relatively modest contribution of the mining and manufacturing sectors to the economy, and a substantial informal economy.

In the years before unification, the oil discoveries in the YAR were followed by substantial exploitation of hydrocarbons. Nevertheless, the agricultural sector remained the dominant sector in the YAR's economy. Agriculture (including forestry and fishing) contributed to an estimated 15% of GDP in 2002. Principle cash crops are coffee, cotton and fruits. Subsistence crops include sorghum, potatoes, wheat and barley. Livestock-rearing,

18 YLNG Advocate 22-07-05 19 YLNG Advocate 22-07-05 20 World Bank Yemen Country Brief 21 www.worldbank.org Yemen Country Brief 22 www.worldbank.org Yemen Country Brief

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particularly in the east and north, and fishing are important activities. Livestock, hides, skins and fish are all exported on a small scale23.

Industry, (including mining, manufacturing, construction and power) contributed an estimated 46.8% of GDP in 2002 and an estimated 15.1% of the working population were employed in the sector in 1999. Mining and quarrying contributed 34.3 % of the gross domestic product (GDP) and employed 0.3 %. The manufacturing sector contributed an estimated 7.5% in 2002 and employed 5.0%, while the services sector contributed some 38.3% of GDP in 2002 and employed some 36.4% of the working population in 199924.

Energy In Yemen some domestic energy requirements are served by locally produced petroleum, but the country is somewhat reliant on fuel imports (particularly petroleum from other producers in the region). Imports of fuel and energy comprised an estimated 12% of the value of total imports in 2001. In 2002 Yemen’s oil fired plants generated 31 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity. According to Yemen’s Public Corporation of Electricity (PCE) the country’s generating capacity (810 MW) and electricity distribution network are inadequate – it is currently estimated that less than one third of households in Yemen have access to electricity from the national grid. According to the PCE Yemen’s generation must increase by 1000 MW by 2010 in order to meet growing demand and to avert an energy crisis in the medium term25.

In 1996 Yemen had a total road network of 64,725 km including 5,234 km of main roads and 2,474 km of secondary roads. In 1999 there were an estimated 6000 km of roads, 11.5% of which were paved. There are no railways in Yemen. Aden is the main port. Its main harbour, Aden Harbour has 28 berths. Hodeida port, on the Red Sea was expanded and now handles a considerable amount of traffic: there are also ports at Maalla, Mocha, Nishtun and Salif. Yemen has six international airports: Sana’a International, Aden Civil Airport, al-Ganad, Mukalla, Seyoun and Hodeida26.

4.7.3.3. Social welfare and civil society Yemen’s population faces ongoing social challenges. Among the major problems are limited access to basic services, a very high fertility rate (6.7%), high illiteracy rates especially among females (73.5%), high unemployment (40%), significant gender inequality and gaps on a number of development indicators and a non-renewable water supply, which is dwindling at an alarming rate27: Public services and welfare systems in Yemen are also weak or inadequate, particularly in the rural areas. This is being addressed by the Government driven Social Fund for Development Project and Public Works Projects and by activities of local NGOs (see reference below). Further discussion on socio-economic development needs and priorities in Yemen can be found in section 4.7.10 at the end of this baseline chapter. NGOs

There are approximately 3,000 NGOs officially registered in Yemen, out of which it may be considered that 1,000 are active in some way. URS have observed a Directory of Non-

23 www.europaworld.com 2004 Yemen Introductory and Statistical Surveys 24 www.europaworld.com 2004 Yemen Introductory and Statistical Surveys 25 www.eia.doe.gov/emeu/cabs/yemen.html. 26 www.europaworld.com Yemen Statistical Survey 27 www.worldbank.org: Yemen Country Brief.

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Governmental Organisations in Yemen (dated July 2003), prepared by The Human Rights Information and Training Center in Sana’a, in cooperation with The American Cultural Attache in Yemen. This directory lists NGOs known to be active the field of Human Rights. It includes details of organisations broadly active in areas relating to Human Rights and development, including; child rights and disabled rights, women’s rights, education and empowerment, Health and Hygiene, Cultural and educational development, Agricultural development and environmental issues, Trade unions, trade associations and cooperatives and political organisations. It also lists foreign development organisations that are active and influential in Yemen including bilateral agenciesm, international NGOs and multilateral agencies such as UNDP, WHO etc28.

4.7.4. Demographics and Population

4.7.4.1. Population and migration Yemen has a population of 20,727,063 (July 2005 est.) and an estimated growth rate of 3.45% (2005 est.)29. The population density in Yemen (especially in its western part) is relatively high compared to that in other countries of the Arabian Peninsula. The distribution of the population over the different Governorates is non-uniform, because it is closely related to the physical environment. By far the largest population lives in the Yemen Mountain area where rainfall is significant, although not high in most locations.

In order to find pastures for their camels, sheep and goats, Bedouin groups move in seasonal patterns from Marib towards Jaw Al Kadif. Some small seasonal movements of people are known to take place in Wadi Jirdan and on the plateau30.

In addition, some work seeking migration of the rural male population was noted in the 2001 baseline survey, as a result of the impacts of flash floods and droughts on arable and cultivated lands in 1996. This migration was observed to be creating dependence on the efforts of women for agricultural work in rural areas.

No other specific migration trends are known or reported for particular Governorates.

4.7.4.2. Population in the Project Area As described in 4.7.2, the Project Affected People, according to OP4.12 is limited to 13 people that are living during the raining season in the pipeline ROW and 3,872 people, including dependence, that will encounter economic loss.

In addition to these directly affected people, YLNG defines Project Indirectly Impacted People (PIIP). These people are those living in the area crossed by the pipeline including the villages located in the Wadi up to 5 km from the pipeline route. The total of this population (PAP+PIIP) according to the 2004 CSO census is around 20,000 inhabitants. .

The population in the Project Area is concentrated in the Shabwa Governorate. It should be noted that the Safir geographic area, where the pipeline begins, belongs to the deserted part of Marib Al Wadi directorate and has a negligible population with the exception of a few

28 The Directory of Non-Governmental Organisations in Yemen: Human Rights Information and Training Center, Sana’a 29 www.cia.com : World Fact Sheets. 30Translated from French by URS: From YLNG from ‘Repons e au Gap Analysis pour URS’ 15-06-05. 31 Obtained through meeting between YGC and CSO Shabwa Office, June 2005. Numbers are derived from 2004 cens us, not yet public, but considered valid by CSO Shabwa officials (in Arabic only).

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Bedouin. The population in the Marib Al Wadi directorate is located much further north than the Safir area.

Table 4-13 presents the population distribution in the Directorates crossed by the pipeline route according to 2004 census data.

TABLE 4-13 POPULATION DISTRIBUTION IN THE DIRECTORATES AND COMMUNITIES Directorate Villages Households Dwellings Male Female Total

Rodhum 172 2720 2708 12027 10830 22857

Mayfa’ah 175 4419 4496 21142 20189 41331

Ar-Rawdhah

273 3046 3287 14227 13975 28202

Jirdan 302 1644 1813 8014 7978 15992

Safir N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

Marib Al Wadi

N/A 4547 4808 20367 18701 39068

TOTAL 922 16376 17112 75777 71673 147450 Source: Central Statistics Organization, Shabwa, 2004 census data31.

The main cities of the 5 Directorates (or Districts) are listed in the following table. None of these cities is crossed by the pipeline which is going across remote areas within these Directorates.

TABLE 4-14 MAJOR CITIES AND THEIR POPULATION IN RELEVANT DIRECTORATES Cities Governorate Population

(1994 census)

Population (2001)

CSO (2004)

Ataq (Capital) Shabwa 8933 - 36880

Azzan Shabwa - 956 -

Jul Ar-Raydhah Shabwa 2840 3600 -

Rodhum city Shabwa 2365 5800 -

Ar-Rawdhah city Shabwa 4818 6500 -

Gul-Al-Mugamm’a Shabwa 3000 450? (check ing ongoing)

-

Marib city (Capital) Marib - - 32306

Source: YLNG

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4.7.4.3. Settlements along the pipeline route There are a number of settlements along the pipeline route, situated within the affected Directorates. Appendix 4-1 lists the settlements in a table showing KP position along the pipeline, distances from the pipeline (less than 2km, between 2-5km, and more than 5km but with easy access to the pipeline route), number of houses and number of inhabitants for each settlement.

TABLE 4-15 SETTLEMENTS ALONG THE PIPELINE ROUTE VILLAGES WITHIN 5 KM FROM MAIN PIPELINE

(Continued)

Directorates Settlement names Distance from pipeline in m

(less than 5000m)

Distance greater than 5000m but with very

easy access

Inhabitants (2000 data when

available, otherwise 1994)

Number of Houses

AGTHAN x 49 8AYAD x 304 38ALGRIBAH 28 2AL SHARQI 1710 200 12Al-Qibly 2210 120 6SHROOJ AL GHAYDHAH

2180 0 0

Sa’adah 1910 300 18Al Jodaib x 46 27Barirah 2460 0 0Al DHOJ 2380 60 4Ar’raidah 940 320 16Jaddabat Alshiq x 589 48Al Bowairedah x 148 14Jaddabat Al Dhawahi

x 303 25

Jawl Al Baderah x 230 27Al Ojaima x 129 112Ameeq x 68 6Al Aredhah x 140 15AL KARIF x 397 42Al Jeef x 310 26 Al Naqeeb x 186 20AL HOJEIL x 67 5AL ATTF x 71 5Shaab Maqar x 65 6Al-Farishah 10 0 0

Jardan

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(Continued)

Directorates Settlement names Distance from pipeline in m

(less than 5000m)


easy access



Number of Houses

AL KHUDAMAH 490 0 0MAGHRAF x 148 12FEEQ x 120 12Al-Asab 810 0 0AL HADHEEM 510 0 0SHAREEH 980 0 0SHROOH AL ALHANAH

1800 0 0

OTOMAH 790 0 0GHOOL AL SAMARAH

1890 300 15

Assafah 1570 250 8AL Dhaherah 2150 750 30Al Khalefah 34 9La'abal 143 10AL SHORAFA 52 6Al Ghobarah 80 6BARK x 236 26AL GHAIB 420 x 170 4SHURAG RAHWAN 90 38 3Al-Lazizah 1020 0 0AL BILAD x 64 5SABT x 29 7AL SARWAH x 102 7Al Dhala'ah x 36 6HOUSN AL BITANAH x 108 16

AL DOOR 0 0Haba'a x 112 10Laqeelat x 28 2Husn Al-qumaishy 2250 90 9Sub Total 7020 585

Jardan (cont'd)

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(Continued)

The entire Transfer Line and most of the Main Line are located in desert regions with small nomadic populations. Except for the CPU and KPU oil facility, the desert is unoccupied until approximately KP 110, where Ayad is located (3.5km from pipeline). Ayad includes the area

32 http://www.state.gov

Directorates Settlement names Distance from pipeline in m and less than

5000m


easy access



Number of Houses

MATRAH BIN GHANYMAH

550 0 0

Khawan ????? 870 50 4THABEET 850 0 0AL KHUNAIQ 240 0 0SHO'ABAT AL BAKRAH

630 0 0

Al-Khashib 790 0 0AL A'LAIB 870 x 0 0RASKALB 5 1Khayoon 23 5FARSH 1280 0 0Al Hanakah 602 69 Al Saylah 0 0Al Madhayeh 0 0Al Sha'abeen 0 0Lasbar 2180 250 20Al Hayrah 0 0SHAWHAT 1250 0 0AL KHUDHIH 950 0 0AL KHAROQ 1340 0 0Sub Total 930 99

Directorates Settlement names Distance from pipeline in m and less than

5000m


easy access



Number of Houses

AL JARAH 306 31AL BEDA'A 98 14BITAH 0 0AL UNAIZAH 91 10AL SALHABAH 24 4QUL QUL 377 52AL MASFALAH 72 11AL KHARBAH 58 4TABAK 151 16AROMAH 0 0HARAB 0 0AL SALAF 0 0Sub Total 1177 142

Ar-Rawdhah

Mayfa'ah

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of Al Methnib, within the area of construction camp at KP110. The population of Al Methnib is principally from Al Maradah tribe, which is different from the other tribes of the area. The next village to Ayad is the agglomeration including Sa’adah Al Sharqi, Al Qibly at KP 125 (1.5km from pipeline); this agglomeration (400 inhabitants) is established in the lower reach of Wadi Jirdan. Only 3 other villages of Al Jodaib, Barirah and Al Dhoj (total 110 inhabitants) are also located in the 5 km vicinity to the pipeline route. The other villages of wadi Jirdan (7110 inhabitants) are avoided by the pipeline route (more than 5km away). From this point the pipeline route changes direction to KP 135 at the entrance to the plateau avoiding Wadi Jirdan, where settlements are numerous.

The route on the plateau runs parallel with Wadi Jirdan. The 7 main villages on the plateau (total population of the plateau less than 1000 inhabitants) are located around KP150 (Ghool Al Samarah,Al-Dhaherah, Assafa and La’abal, 0.5-1.5 km from pipeline ) and around KP 160 (Al-Sharfa, Al-Ghobarah and Bork, 1-3km from pipeline). The rest of the plateau is almost devoid of human presence (except some very small settlements (Khawon, Thabeet, etc. 1-3km from pipeline). In Wadi Salmoon the main villages (Al-Hanakah, Al-Sha’abyn) are located approximately 5 km from the pipeline route, with only Lasbar closer to the pipeline (around 2km from KP205).

The area between KP 205 and 230 is desert and the villages of Wadi Mahyid, (QulQul, Al-Masfalah, Tabak from KP225 to230) are more than 1.5 km from the pipeline route.

Nomads are also present in the upper coastal plain. In the lower part of the coastal plain 4 villages are present: Ein Bama’abad (at KP 290), Al Jwairy (at KP300), Farjooma (KP 300) and Jela’a (at KP 310) with a total population of 3400.

4.7.4.4. Settlements Around the Plant Area No permanent inhabitants are located at the Balhaf site, but the bay does serve as a temporary seasonal base and shelter for fishermen. Fishing is the only supportive economic activity at Balhaf. The closest permanent dwellings are the gas station and a restaurant north of the site, located along the asphalt road. The Balhaf site dates back to Islamic times, but has been progressively abandoned since 1960 due to the lack of water.

Some isolated dwellings are present within close proximity to the LNG plant, inside the Balhaf restricted area but outside the plant area surrounded by the boundary fence. The whole area is called Mafraq Balhaf and its population is estimated by CSO in 2004 at 70

4.7.4.5. Ethnicity and tribes

Yemen’s population is predominantly Arab, but includes some Afro-Arab, South Asians and Europeans. Arabic is the official language, although English is increasingly understood in major cities. In the Mahra area (the extreme east), several non-Arabic languages are spoken 32.

As discussed above, the north of Yemen is mainly tribal with the major tribes of Hashid and Bakil occupying the north-east quadrant, from south of Sana’a’ to the Saudi border and from the edge of the plateau eastward to the desert. The division between the tribes in the north are territorial and the vast majority of tribesmen and their families are farmers. Yemeni tribes have been predominantly farmers since tribes were first recognised in the area33.

Table 4-16 below lists the main tribes and sub-tribes known to be settled along the pipeline route or near to the LNG plant at Balhaf. It does not give specific locations as updated

33 Robin, 1977: 154-5 in Dresch, 1989:3

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information on their locations is not yet available. However the 1996 YLNG report for Total on tribal locations along the pipeline route lists and locates as far as possible, those tribes identified along the pipeline route at that time and indicates areas where there have been security concerns in the past or where conflict is known to have occurred. It also provides advice on approaching and interacting with different tribal groups and representatives in specific locations along the route (as it was proposed in 1996). The information was gathered by interviews and through a brief questionnaire with Bedouin contacts.

N.B: It is important to note, as highlighted in the 1996 report, that it is difficult to precisely locate discrete tribes along the pipeline route. This is partly due to the fact that in Yemen, a single village may be controlled by two or more tribes. In addition each big family can be considered a branch of a tribe, or even a tribe in itself which is a branch of a bigger one, for example, Al-Dmashka is a branch of Abidah tribe which is a part of Baquil tribe. This complex structure makes defining and locating specific tribal groups very difficult (Figure 4-11).

TABLE 4-16 MAIN TRIBES AND SUB-TRIBES ALONG THE PIPELINE ROUTE

Nr Main Tribe Sub-Tribe Ashaikh name

1 Abida Tbc Tbc 2 Balharth Tbc Tbc 3 Bal-Abeid Al-Abdul Qawl Hamad Mubark Mukairman 4 Nahd Al-Marada’h Saleh A. Flaik 5 Al Qramish Qramish Eyad Saleh M.Bin Lashraf 6 Al-Hannam Al-Hannam Abdulla Salim Lahtal 7 Al Qramish Qramish Sa’ada Mohammed M. Ba Halwan 8 Al Braik Al Braik Abdul Rahman S. Bahar 9 Al-Abdul Haq Al-Abdul Haq Salem A. Al-Rubbah 10 Bani Helal Al-Dhabab Saleh A. Al-Alquel 11 Bani Helal Al-Sarea SalehM. Al-Muqadam 12 Bani Helal Al-Hassan Mohsen S. Al-Qadeemah 13 Bani Helal Al-Atef Ahmad A. Amer 14 Al-Bahqeenah Al-Bahqeenah Ali H. Yeslam 15 Na’aman Al-Mansour Not known 16 Na’aman Al-Ba-Jail Not known 17 Na’aman Al-Ba-Faqeer Mohammed M. Bafqeer 18 Na’aman Al-Baqutmi Abdullah M. Baqutmi 19 Na’aman Al-Suhaim Balkhair Saleh 20 Na’aman Al-Barshaid Nasser M. Al-Daghari 21 Na’aman Al-Badyan Abdullah Awadh 22 Ba-Ma’abad Ba-Ma’abad Mohammed Ali Ba Ma’abad 23 Ba-Das Ba-Das Abdullah Al-Faqoos 24 Al-Wahdi Al-Wahdi Abdulla N. 25 Al-Bahqfeez Tbc Salem Al-Shaikh

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Nr Main Tribe Sub-Tribe Ashaikh name

26 Hemyar Al-Husaini Salem M. Malhouf 27 Hemyar Al-Qsha’aeer Salem N. Lahyaf 28 Hemyar Al-Azmi Not known

29 Hemyar Sulaimani Not known

30 Hemyar Al-Abdullah Said S. Al Mohyan 31 Hemyar Al-Bakharkhoor Not known

Source: Mosen Sarea, 30/06/05

Figure 4-11 shows approximate locations of tribal groups along the pipeline route:

4.7.4.6. Vulnerable and Marginalised Groups

Women and Girls In Yemen it has been widely recognized that traditional social organizational structures, cultural practices and division of labour in Yemen put women and girls at risk of social and economic marginalization and exclusion. As a result women have relatively weak social and economic rights, including restricted access to educational development, political representation, equal wages and good health care amongst other basic rights. This is particularly the case in rural areas and more remote communities. In these areas communicating directly with and understanding the needs of women can be made difficult by customs and traditions, which determine that social hierarchies, community decision making bodies and local representative organizations are dominated by men.34

This is supported by the findings of a survey undertaken by the European Commission and evident in work more recently undertaken by French Red Cross (FRC), in the Shabwa Governorate in partnership with YLNG in October 2005. The FRC study investigates current standards of access to safe drinking water resources and sanitary conditions in 27 villages in the Shabwa Governorate. It reports that within communities already marginalised because of their poor access to water, women and girls bear the main burden for water collection and transportation from long distance sources. For 72 % of the villages surveyed by the European Commission, each trip made is between half to one hour and the majority of women and girls are likely to maKe between 2 and 3 trips a day for water. A UNICEF report also cited in the FRC study suggests that there is an 80 % correlation between the time taken to fetch water in a village and girls’attendance rates at school.35

Marginalisation of women and girls in the education system is further supported by evidence in as discussed in section 4.9.7.5. Illiteracy rates in Yemen were up to 79.6 % of the female population in 1994, and there are very low participation rates of girls in schools.

Refugees and internally displaced persons The UN High Commissioner for Refugees estimates there are 67,000 Somalian refugees in Yemen36. These refugees (“boat peoples”) enter Yemen via the coast between Mukalla and Aden. Police posts are in place all along the coast in order to try and control the influx inland.

34 http://www.hri.ca/fortherecord2003/documentation/bodies/e-c12-1-add92.htm 35 Croix Rouge Française: Improved Health and Sanitary Conditions and Increased Water Safety of Vulnerable Communities of the Shabwa Governorate. 36 http://www.refugeecouncil.org.uk/infocenter/country/somalia.htm.

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG


MAP SHOWING LOCATIONS OF TRIBAL GROUPS ALONG PIPELINE ROUTE

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Ref.

See barscale

LYO

February 2006

JLL

43683552 Figure 4-11

Format

A4

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It has been reported that the local populations show no hostility towards the refugees and instead will often help them.

Yemen extends prima facie recognition to Somalis, issuing refugee cards co-signed by UNHCR that legalize their stay, permit freedom of movement and facilitate access to employment and education. On average, some 1,000 Somalis arrive in Yemen each month, and all are accepted as refugees on a prima facie basis. Nearly 90 % of the refugees in the country hail from Somalia. To this end, a memorandum of understanding was signed in July 2005 between the Passport and Immigration Authority and the High Commissioner for Refugees, to open six centers for registration of Somali refugees. These centers will be supported by the UNHCR and will register all Somali refugees including the new-born children, will issue cards and replacement cards, as well as restoring the cards of those who voluntarily wish to return to their countries. The centers will provide protection to refugees in Yemen, and release those who have been detained for not carrying their cards, unless they are wanted for penal causes.37

In addition, UNHCR in Yemen hosts 9,000 Palestinian refugees as well as nearly 700 other non-Somali refurgees.38.

About 11,000 refugees, many women and children, live in the al-Kharaz camp near Aden Most refugees self-settle in urban centers near Sana’a’, Aden, or Taiz39. Since 1996 the UNCHR has also built a refugee camp in Mayfa'ah, which is run by a local NGO - SHS (Society for Humanitarian Solidarity), under the control of UNCHR. This is a transit camp where refugees are brought for 2-3 days before being sent to Kharaz. There are no permanent refugee camps as such around the plant site or along the pipeline route but it must be noted that since 1990 most of the refugees brought into Yemen by smugglers are dropped in the vicinity of Balhaf as it is the closest landing point to Bossasso in Somalia. Before being sent on to Mayfa'ah and Kharaz camps, these refugees are gathered in small temporary camp in Kheida, close to the Balhaf site. Between October 2005 and January 2006 three groups of refugees (total amount 119 persons).They have been fed and handed over to the UNHCR, according to YLNG refugee policy (see Section 7.3.1.2)

There are also a few settled refugees in some of the towns located near to Balhaf, in particular in the Rodhum Directorate. They are Erythreans, Ethopians, Somalians and are settled very often on the roads. These refugees are unable to work officially as they have no legal papers and do not hold Yemeni citizenship.

4.7.4.7. Socio-cultural practices The following issues are to be significant socio-cultural factors, which are likely to affect the way project operations are run in Yemen. The social protocol surrounding qat use, in particular, may shape or facilitate interactions between the Project team and Project Affected People, and may therefore partly determine the project’s approach to the public consultation process itself.

Qat Qat is a leafy narcotic which when chewed produces produce feelings of euphoria and stimulation. The drug has become a major cultural phenomenon for Yemeni and Somali societies and has been the cause of conflict over production and distribution in these

37 Yemen Times", issue 7 July 2005, page 3: "UNCHR opens six centers in Yemen". 38 http://www.unhcr.ch/cgi-bin/texis/vtx/publ/opendoc.pdf?tbl=PUBL&id=41ab28d5c; 2004-5 39 http://www.refugees.org/countryreports.aspx?id=1340

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countries. Qat is chewed several days a week by a large percent of Yemen's population and participants regard the time spent chewing qat as productive time. The social aspect of Qat chewing is as important, if not more so, than the physical high it creates. Qat sessions are when business deals are arranged, information is exchanged communication is strengthened, verbal skills are improved and culturally "desirable behaviour" is reinforced.

Aside from its importance for social facilitation, qat is increasingly generating concerns about health impacts, social exclusion and its impact on the economy. The World Health Organization lists qat as a "dependence producing drug" implying that users will attempt to get daily supplies to the "exclusion of all other activities"40. Some argue that qat dependence harms the economy by draining wealth and encouraging laziness and absenteeism - statistics suggest that nearly every family, even in poor communities, will spend up to one third of its disposable income on qat supplies41. Also, because insomnia is a side effect of the drug, it is believed to reduce productivity following its use. As discussed above, social exclusion can also result from qat use where in all urban, rural and mountainous regions, almost all adults are chewing qat during their leisure time, so that citizens not chewing are considered anti-social to others and are less accepted.

In purely economic terms the dominance of Qat cultivation creates a potential problem because a valuable but entirely "non-nutritious and unproductive” crop is preventing the use of arable land for growing other more valuable crops for export or subsistence. Currently, estimates suggest one-half to two-thirds of arable land has been cultivated for Qat, largely because farmers earn five times as much for Qat as for other crops, including coffee42.

Socially regulated tribal conflict and small arms use Publicly available information indicates that there is widespread use of small arms in Yemen as well as conflict between tribal groups, particularly over land 43

A recent article in the Yemen times (July 14th 2005) describes armed confrontations between tribes from Bani Omar and Gharadhan directorates (in Ibb and Dhamar Governorates, respsectively). Though these districts are not within the Project Area, the report provides strong and recent evidence that in Yemen today, tribal disputes over agricultural land and water resources can and still do lead to violent clashes and killings between local groups. It notes that the conflict concerned has persisted over a 4 year period, becoming, ‘a complicated problem for thousands of people living in the nearby areas, particularly as the fighting spread to most of the villages in these two districts’.

In this case confrontations are reported to have worsened and death tolls have been allowed to increase because to a lack of effective government and judiciary intervention. This neglect creates an atmosphere of despondency, and mistrust of government authorities, further undermining the power of local law enforcement and encouraging the self-regulation of conflict using the traditional tribal justice system, based in ‘blood money’ and revenge.44

40 http://www.american.edu/projects/mandala/TED/qat.htm. 41 http://www.american.edu/projects/mandala/TED/qat.htm Trade and Environment Database; http://www.al-bab.com/yemen/soc/qat.htm Yemen Gateway; http://www.sciencedaily.com/upi/?feed=TopNews&article=UPI-1-20050514-06544100-bc-yemen-qat.xml Science Daily 42http://www.yemeninfo.gov.ye/ENGLISH/panorama/qatinyemen.htm Yemen Info http://ag.arizona.edu/~lmilich/yemen.html 43 See Paul Dresch : The regulation of Tribal Conflict in Yemen and ‘Tribes, Government and Histroy in Yemen’ see also “Demand, Stockpiles, and Social Controls: Small Arms in Yemen: Derek B Miller 44 Tribal confrontations leave dozens killed and wounded in Ibb, Dhamar and al-Jawf: Yasser Mohammed Al-Mayyasi, Yemen Times: 14th July 2005:

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The article links these types of conflict to the ‘nationwide phenomenon of small arms carrying’ which it suggests is the ‘primary reason behind tribal clashes’.

The phenomenon of carrying firearms by local male population in the main cities has declined after the Government introduced harsher laws and implementation measures.

The Government, working with various NGO’s, have adopted various programs for the purchase of firearms from civilians in an attempt to reduce firearms ownership by individuals. A new draft of the firearms law was recently discussed by parliament, and is still pending further discussion and approval. The new law purports to give the police the power to enter residences, and confiscate un-licensed firearms. Such amendment and powers have not yet been accepted by parliament.45

4.7.4.8. Religion Yemenis are predominantly Muslim and divided into two principal Islamic religious groups: the Zaidi sect of the Shi'a, found in the north and northwest, and the Shaf’i school of Sunni Muslims, found in the south and southeast. Yemenis are mainly of Semitic origin, although African strains are reportedly present among inhabitants of the coastal region46. However, strains is not confirm of African religion along the coast through its survey work47. It is understood that within the Governorates of Shabwa and Marib all communities follow Shaf’i school of Islam48.

4.7.4.9. Gender distribution

The gender split within the Shabwa Governorate that is relevant to the Project region is shown in Table 4-17

45 YLNG Advocate 22-07-05 46 http://www.state.gov. 47 YLNG/YGC representatives report, 04-07-05, YLNG Offices. 48 YLNG/YGC representatives report, 04-07-05, YLNG Offices.

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TABLE 4-17 GENDER DISTRIBUTION IN SHABWA GOVERNORATE49

Directorates Male Female % Difference

Rodhum 52.62 47.38 5.24

Mayfa’ah 51.15 48.85 2.31

Ar-Rawdhah 50.45 49.55 0.89

Jirdan 50.11 49.89 0.23

Source: Central Statistics Organization, Shabwa, 2004 census data50.

Gender distribution for the region therefore shows an average of 1.73% more males than females. At the village level, communities recorded within 5 kms of the pipeline route display an average gender split of 51.30 % males to 48.70% females51.

4.7.4.10. Age distribution

An important demographic is the very low average age for both males and females in Yemen. The total average age is only 16.54 years. For males the average age is 16.53 years and females 16.56 years (2005 est.)52.

Table 4-18 shows the population by age distribution for Yemen as projected for 2005 by the Central Government.

TABLE 4-18 PROJECTED POPULATION BY AGE DISTRIBUTION 2005

Age Group Population both sexes (000) for 2005

Population Male (000) for 2005

Population Female (000) for 2005

0-4 4144 2120 2024

5-9 3416 1746 1669

10-14 2762 1408 1353

15-19 2211 1128 1084

20-24 2127 1093 1033

25-29 1793 923 870

49 Marib Governorate data is not included as the population in this region relevant to the pipeline route is negligible and census data is not available. 50 Obtained through meeting between YGC and CSO Shabwa Office, June 2005. Numbers are derived from 2004 census, not yet public, but considered valid by CSO Shabwa officials (in Arabic only). 51 June 2005 YLNG/YGC survey report, “Villages within 5km from Main Line”. 52 http://www.cia.gov/cia/publications/factbook/geos/ym.html.

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Age Group Population both sexes (000) for 2005

Population Male (000) for 2005

Population Female (000) for 2005

30-34 1,163 573 591

35-39 857 400 457

40-44 838 385 454

45-49 728 333 395

50-54 538 255 284

55-59 406 197 209

60-64 301 144 157

65-69 219 104 115

70-74 163 79 84

75+ 201 96 105

Source: Ministry of Planning and International Cooperation, Central Statistical Organization; Statistical Yearbook 2003.

The significantly higher age distribution between the ages 0 – 34 years is consistent with low average ages for both males and females in Yemen. Working age population figures (particularly between 34 – 64 years) are low in comparison with other age sectors.

4.7.4.11. Public health 53

Overview of health profile Yemen’s health indicators are some of the lowest in the world, and improving them is made challenging by the difficult economic situation.

In the World Health Report 2000, Yemen ranked as 141 of 191 counties worldwide for the level of health. Compared to other countries of the WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region, Yemen is lagging far behind in terms of health indicators; however, there have been some noticeable improvements in the last decade. For example, since unification, life expectancy has increased by 14 years, infant mortality decreased by 15%, contraceptive use has increased by 67% and fertility rates have declined from 7.8 to 6.5.

The situation is compounded by the wide regional and rural/urban disparities in conditions. For example, the Total Fertility Rate in rural areas is 23% higher than the overall total for the country and rural children have a 22% greater chance of dying in their first five years than urban children54.

53 All data reported here (unless otherwise stated) are from National statistics for the country as a whole. World Health Organization Country Cooperation Strategy (2002-2007) for WHO and the Republic of Yemen, 2003. 54 World Bank: Republic of Yemen Comprehensive Development Review Health Sector – Phase 1 December 2000

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Poverty, low participation in education especially among girls, and high illiteracy are major contributing factors to poor health as are limited access to potable water and proper sanitation. As a result maternal and infant mortality and total fertility rates are the highest in the region.

Life expectancy at birth in 2003 is estimated at 57.0 years for males and 61.0 years for females in Yemen55.

The coverage of primary health care services is not comprehensive. They reach around 42% of the population, with a significant gap between urban and rural areas (75% and 24% respectively). The situation at present indicates that several health institutions, particularly those in rural areas, do not provide adequary primary health care services. They are staffed by inadequately trained personnel, are poorly equipped and have insufficient availability of drugs and medical supply. Out-of-pocket expenses by Yemeni health care consumers are high and prove to be an important constraint ot accessing health care.

In 2000 public spending on health was about 2 percent of GDP and 4.8 percent of total government expenditure - the lowest per capita health spend in the region56.

Water and Sanitation People’s health status is closely related to their access to safe drinking water and adequate sanitation facilities. In Yemen the poor access to healthy water sources along with severe shortages in sewage systems are directly linked with the emergence and spread of contagious diseases and are a major factor for the high levels of morbidity in rural areas.

Access to Water Less than half of the Yemen’s population has access to safe water and sanitation since most of the water sources such as traditional wells and ponds are not protected. As a result they are frequently contaminated and either need treatment or should be completely avoided. Oil or fuel motor pumps are common sources of pollution. The linkages between inadequate or polluted water sources, severe shortages and water-borne diseases are not currently monitored in Yemen.

The capacity for households to purchase water is low, and there is an increased dependence on tankered water, which is very expensive. A considerable amount of time is spent fetching water and the majority of women and girls go twice or even three times a day to the water source. For 72% of the villages surveyed by the European Commission, each of these trips is between half to one hour. Women are responsible for the collection, storage and treatment of drinking water and as such, are the main stakeholders in terms of changing working practices in the subject. They are also responsible for the health of the family, and as such have the motivation to improve water handling and storage practices.

Sanitation Access to good sanitation in Yemen is also very limited. Although 92% of the urban population have access to some sort of sanitation facility, this is the case for only 2% of the rural population with only 14% of the rural population with access to improved sanitation such as a connection to a sewer or septic tank system, a pour-flush latrine, a simple pit latrine or a ventilated improved pit latrine.

55World Health Organization: http://www.who.int/countries/yem/en/. 56 World Bank: Republic of Yemen Comprehensive Development Review Health Sector – Phase 1 December 2000

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Hygiene Practices In rural areas of Yemen, people generally do not use latrines. 45% of the population use an open pit or none at all for defecation. Even if latrines are available, children will often defecate close to the household’s yards. Such poor personal hygiene and practices contribute to water contamination and spread of diseases. Hygiene knowledge and perception by women in rural areas is quite low. 38% of women do not know the cause of water contamination; only 13% perceive animal faeces as a source of water pollution; only 6% perceive human faeces as a source of water pollution.

Family planning, maternal and child health Population growth in Yemen is 3.45 percent per year – among the highest in the world. Family planning activities are minimal and the use of modern contraceptives is particularly low at approximately 13 percent. In the Shabwa Directorate the average number of people per households is 8.78, and in Marib 8.64.57 Families in Yemen are reported to have on average 6-8 children per household.

Comprehensive data on maternal and child health is lacking. During the period from 1978–1997, infant and child mortality dropped from 138 to 71 deaths per 1000 live births and under-five mortality from 203 to 105 per 1000 births. However, 2003 statistics show under-five mortality at 112 per 1000 births. Infant mortality as well as under-five mortality are much higher in rural areas than in urban areas and are higher among boys than girls. Among children, diarrhoeal diseases such as typhoid, enteritis, dysentery bilharzias, and respiratory infection are the major causes of morbidity and mortality. Furthermore, one-third of all deaths among under-fives occur because of vaccine preventable diseases. An estimated 12% of children suffer from disabilities. Yemen is also one of the few countries in the region where under-nutrition is a major problem, particularly among children.

Yemen’s maternal mortality rates are also among the world’s highest. Maternal deaths account for 42% of deaths among women aged 15–49. The maternal mortality rate was estimated at 351 per 100 000 live births during 1988–1997. High maternal mortality rates are mainly due to limited prenatal, peri-natal, and postnatal care, high fertility, early pregnancy and low rates of modern contraceptives use. 73% of pregnant women in rural areas do not receive any antenatal care, while the figure for urban areas is 39%. Only 22% of deliveries are attended by trained health personnel.

Frequency of disease About 60% of the population live in areas, which are prone to malaria epidemics. The estimated figure for annual malaria cases is 3 million, with more than 30000 malaria deaths per year, mostly among children under the age of five and among pregnant women. Prevention is not generally effective as less than 10% of the population use mosquito nets; almost zero in rural areas. Furthermore, the nets used are most of time not impregnated Malaria control was successful in the 1980s however, in the 1990s it suffered serious setbacks. Starting from 2000, the government with support from WHO launched renewed efforts for malaria control with considerable reduction in the number of cases in pilot areas. There have been some recent reported cases of Malaria in the Rodhum coastal district.

The estimated incidence rate of tuberculosis cases is 107 per 10,0000 population, and every year more than 10,000 people develop tuberculosis, with 80% occurring among the productive age groups. Yemen has implemented a prevention strategy since 1995 and has made progress in the last few years.

57 CSO received by Mohamed Al Shahedhi ( YGC) and transmitted to YLNG on July 13th

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Available data indicate a low prevalence of HIV. By the end of 2000, the cumulative number of reported HIV infections was 960, out of which 209 had developed AIDS. However, these numbers are probably significantly underestimated. The major mode of transmission is sexual, with young people most affected. There is a high incidence of sexually transmitted infections in Yemen, inadequate monitoring, poor observation of medical precautions, and domestic and international migration, which all affect HIV prevalence and reporting.

Polio was all but controlled in Yemen since 1996 until a recent outbreak in 2005. In April 2005 a number of cases of polio were confirmed in Yemen. The cases were reported from Hudeida Governorate in south-west Yemen, on the Red Sea coast. Prior to these cases, this particular polio virus (wild poliovirus) has not been found in Yemen since surveillance commenced in 1996. The Ministry of Health in Yemen confirmed in May 2005 an additional 71 cases, bringing the total number of cases associated with this outbreak to 179. The majority of the new cases are from the same Governorate as the index case. Currently, 11 Governorates are known to be affected by the outbreak. The Ministry of Health launched a nationwide immunization campaign, to reach all of the country's children under the age of 5 years with polio vaccine. Other testing, surveillance and prevention activities are ongoing58.

There is generally very little information on non-communicable diseases; however, hospital data show high morbidity and mortality from cardiovascular diseases.

Project Level Health and Sanitation Detailed information on project level health and sanitation has been difficult to obtain because of the highly dispersed population, due to the fact that the directorates are characterised by a rough and difficult topography, inducing a scattered housing style. At a local level this factor contributes to the difficulties of effectively delivering public services (water, health and education).

Survey work undertaken on behalf of YLNG by the French Red Cross in October 2005 has allowed a broad sketch of water related disease and sanitary conditions of the communities in these areas. The main observations reported by this survey indicate that:

Population and hospital (or health centre) statistics in all locations identified diarrhoea, bleeding diarrhoea, hepatitis, malaria (especially in the coastal area), respiratory diseases, and skin diseases as major diseases. Also mentioned were bilharzia, typhoid, amoebas and intestinal parasites. All of these diseases are environmentally related (specifically linked to unsafe water).

In all areas, the communities rely on springs, wells and boreholes and/or cisterns for all domestic water uses, including drinking water. The springs are often located far from home, which means that women and girls must travel significant distances several times a day to collect water.

Water is stored in the households in large barrels or tanks, from where it is taken by hand for domestic purposes. Water is not treated at the household level. Fuel costs make boiling water prohibitively expensive and people have no boilers for this purpose.

Most rural households use a traditional Yemeni dry toilet system, where solid wastes are separated from liquid and collected in a pit, which is then recycled as fertilizer.

At project level, the following data in Table 4-19 below is available, relating to specific disease cases reported in the Shabwa Governorate

58 World Health Organization, 2005: http://www.who.int/countries/yem/en/.

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TABLE 4-19 DISEASES REPORTED IN SHABWA GOVERNORATE 2003

ENTERITIS DYSENTERY MALARIA BILHARZIAS POLIOMYELITIS

HEPATITIS A

TYPHOID

Total cases for Yemen

390520 61629 286909 32 450 70 9757 16900

Number of cases in Shabwa

16049 - 4764 1096 - 145 1170

Source: Ministry of Health

There is otherwise very limited data available on diseases at the project level. What is clear overall is that infectious diseases such as malaria, tuberculosis and Rift Valley Fever require better monitoring and registration, in order to control their spreas among the most vulnerable populations.

Lifestyle and Environmental Factors In Yemen, tobacco consumption is among the highest in the world. A study in 1999 showed about 60% (71% male and 30% female) of the population 15 years and above are regular smokers. Chewing qat is widespread and daily qat use has significant health implications as it increases the risk of stomach ulcer, colon cancer, intestinal infections, tumours, high blood pressure, insecticide poisoning and renal implications.

Road traffic accidents and firearms injuries are particularly high compared to other countries in the Region. Less than half the total population has access to safe water and sanitation facilities.

4.7.5. Land Tenure and Use

Ownership and the use of land is not a significant part of the social economy in the Project Area, largely due to the remote location of the pipeline route and LNG plant area and ancillary facilities.

Even though the above statement is true, it is also understood that land not registered as being owned may be claimed as the property of the tribe that controls the relevant area.59

4.7.5.1. Land ownership Information on land ownership is scarce in Yemen. Survey work and discussions with land rights specialists indicate that being a remote location, most of the land required for the implementation of the Project will be public land owned and controlled by the Government or any of its related entities.

In and around the LNG plant area and ancillary facilities land is largely state owned and operated, in particular by the military. There are isolated dwellings close to the boundary of the Balhaf designated area although the ownership rights have not been established.

Government officials strongly report that there is no private property either on the pipeline route or at the LNG plant site. This fact remains to be verified when the detailed permitting operations take place.

59 YLNG Advocate 22-07-05

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It is likely however, that there will be some “rights of use” of state owned land issues, and private ownership rights that will exist and require to be compensated / indemnified for the temporary or definitive loss of this right. State land is used under lease agreement or sometimes without formal permission.

Rights to Use of Land and Conflict Over Rights With respect to any privately owned land required for the implementation of the Project, it should be noted that Marib is a tribal area and that discussions and negotiations with land owners will be complex and will have to deal with customary or traditional rights. Even though the pipeline crosses only 25 km in the Marib governate, it deserves a high consideration.

This assessment is supported by the 1996 Report on Tribes Locations that describes challenges faced by Project teams in their interactions with tribal groups while surveying the pipeline route. These issues were mainly related to conflict over the distribution of jobs generated by the Project, and in one serious case in 1993, in Block 5 of the Marib region, resulted in a severe dispute between two tribes and the kidnapping of expatriate contractors from a project rig60. Though this is an extreme case it is important to understand the cultural context in which these disputes may arise.

The socio-cultural importance of territory and land ownership is linked to collective identity and personhood in the tribal system. Tribal peoples in Yemen draw strong links between the concepts of personhood and a sense of belonging, which are anchored for each tribe to a discrete territory or area of land. It is in defending that territory that ‘honour’ is earned – a concept central to the identity of a tribesman, and that which confers the authenticity of ‘descent’ and collective heritage. ‘Honour’ for tribesmen is understood as the essence or quality that distinguishes them from non-tribal, weak people and must be defended.

This point is reiterated by another tribal term “mu’awwarat”, meaning ‘things on the inviolability of which honour depends, and hence things in defence of which one’s brothers’ should offer support against outsiders’. A tribesman, when asked for a list of things that are defined by mu’awwarat will often mention land, first and foremost. The term and the concept of land itself are thus often virtually synonymous with the notion of ‘ard’ or honour defended61.

4.7.5.2. Land use The major land uses, expressed as approximate percentages of the total land use, and other land use characteristics are summarized in Table 4-20. Most significant land uses recorded during baseline survey work are shown on the maps of Appendix 4-2.

Along the pipeline route, major land uses are as follows:

• Open Land: Land that is currently vacant, undeveloped and unlikely to be developed for agricultural or other land uses due to constraints such as steep terrain, lack of water resources, or remote location. This is the majority of the land along the Main Line and Transfer Line;

60 Total Report: Tribes Locations on Gas Pipeline Routes (for YLNG Project), 1996:2. 61 See Dresch, 1989:80-81 62 Pers comm.: Head of Security YLNG 30-05-05

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• Agricultural: This is subdivided into moderate and high productivity areas. “Moderate” represents land that has been cultivated in the recent past (i.e., there is evidence of agricultural activities), or due to its location (e.g., proximity to wadis or current agriculture) may be cultivated in the future. “High” represents land that is currently cultivated. Moderate cultivated land is found on the Main Line in one location in Wadi Jirdan, near KP 120.

At the Balhaf LNG plant site and ancillary facilities major land uses are as follows:

• State-Owned and Operated Land: Land that is currently owned and utilised by the State.

• Other to be confirmed as further survey work is undertaken and land ownership confirmed

At the Balhaf LNG plant site, the old fort (see Section 4.9.3.2) has been occupied by the military and approximately a dozen sheds/huts/structures have been occupied temporarily by fishermen during the fishing season (up to 200 fishermen during the monsoon period). Photographic documentation shows the fishing structures and activities in and around the Balhaf area.

4.7.5.3. Other land issues

Anti-personnel mines Figure 4-12 shows locations of mine affected communities in Yemen by age of conflict.

An unknown number of anti-personnel mines exist in series of minefields situated along the coastal road some 75 km from Mukalla, towards Balhaf and before Bir Ali.

The mines dating from 1994 are placed on either side of the road where they are mostly visible before they go up into the valley (wadi) to the north. This zone is located on the border of a slightly mountainous zone and an area of sandy desert. The aim of the mine fields would have been to deter infiltrations of infantry, since the ground in this area is not very favourable to armoured or light armoured vehicles. The mines are in an almost entirely deserted zone.

It is important to note that this route is a main road and could still used a lot by army convoys and could become a problem location e.g. ambush base, from which to cause potential problems for the Project activities should the mines remain on either side of the route. The clearance of these mines may therefore present a potential opportunity to implement a sustainable development initiative that could improve pedestrian and other access/movement for local peoples as well as solve potential security issues associated with the mines62.

YLNG is committed to facilitating the clearance of any mines in the Project Area (these are mainly those mentioned above, to the east of Balhaf). The French government finances, through the UNDP, a mine-clearing project by the Yemen Mine Action Centre (a Yemen company). YLNG’s planned strategy on mines, will be to indicate to UNDP and the Yemen Mine Action Centre those priority areas around 100km east of Balhaf where they require mine clearance to take place. YNLG will contribute to any additional financing required for this clearance 63.

63 Source: YLNG 5-07-05

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG


LOCATIONS OF MINE AFFECTED COMMUNITIES IN YEMEN BY AGE OF CONFLICT

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Ref.

See barscale

LYO

February 2006

JLL

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Format

A4

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TABLE 4-20 MAIN LINE – TRANSFER LINE – LAND USE WITHIN 1 KM OF ROW

Kilometer Major Land Use (%) Minor Land Use

Open Land

Agricultural

High Residential Industrial Infrastructure Roads

TRANSFER LINE

0 to 25 100 0 0 No dwelling KPU and CPU Oil exploration camps

Pipelines Access road to KPU

MAIN LINE

0 to 100 100 0 0 No dwellings. Abandoned well with house at KP 17. Camps for oil field workers at KP 0 (KPU) and KP 90 (Nimir) Nomadic camps observed (KP 95).

KPU Oil exploration camp observed at KP 5. Oil field with wells, tankage, primary treatment facilities, and gas flares at KP 90?

Pipeline from oil field No roads from KP 0 to KP 72, occasional unpaved tracks from KP 72 to 100 with major unpaved track crossing at KP 79.

100 to 105 70 30 0 No dwellings. No industry. No infrastructure. Several unpaved tracks.


120 to 125 60 35 5 Dwellings sparsely distributed.

No industry. Minor earth damming in wadis to retain water for agricultural use. Agricultural terraces and

Numerous unpaved tracks

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Kilometer Major Land Use (%) Minor Land Use

Open Land

Agricultural

High Residential Industrial Infrastructure Roads

impoundments.


143 to 150 95 2 3 Village KP 148 No industry No infrastructure One unpaved track on top of plateau 150 to 205 100 0 0 Isolated dwellings,

cultivated ponds No industry No infrastructure, one

small water pipe KP 202 One unpaved track on top of plateau 205 to 238 100 0 0 No dwellings. No industry. No infrastructure. No tracks.

238 to 309 100 0 0 Nomadic camps No industry Oil pipeline along road Paved road

309 to 320 95 5 0 Dwellings sparsely distributed.

No industry No infrastructure Paved road

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4.7.6. Economic Activities

4.7.6.1. Agriculture The agricultural sector is still the largest sector in terms of employment in Yemen but due to subsistence farming and low productivity its contribution to the GDP is disproportionately low. Despite the increasing interest of the Government in this sector, its productivity is extremely vulnerable to variations in rainfall and to natural disasters such as drought and torrential floods. Regional inventories suggest that approximately 92% of the water resources developed in Yemen are used in the agricultural sector.

Agricultural production decreased these the past few years due to the scarcity of rainfall, drought and torrential floods that in 1996 swept away arable and cultivated lands causing heavy losses of crops and soil. This event also inflicted heavy damages upon households and water wells (inclusion of large amount of silts). The socio-economic survey performed in 2001 noticed that the impact of this event was still visible at that time.

The main economic activity in the regions crossed by the Main Line and Transfer Line is agriculture. Agricultural products are used for local consumption and sold in local markets. The type of cultivated crops are listed below:

• Cereals: cultivation is concentrated on valleys sides (where flood runs) or on small depressions on the plateau. They include wheat, barley, sorghum and millet.

• Vegetables: the agricultural areas are located near water wells and streams. The main cultivated vegetables include okras, onions, tomatoes, spinaches and zucchinis. According to the socio-economic study no vegetables are cultivated in Jirdan Directorate.

• Fruits: in Jirdan Directorate, agricultural production is limited due to the high temperature and the lack of water. Cultivation of fruit trees like orange and lemon trees in addition to banana and papaya started recently in Mayfa’ah Directorate (i.e. the plateau area) according to the socio-economic survey. Mango and palm trees (with limited production of dates) were observed in Rodhum Directorate (i.e. the coastal area).

Figure 4-13 presents the location of the cultivated area in the settlements surveyed during the 2001 socio-economic survey. N.B no agricultural activity takes place in the Safir region as it is a desertic area.

TABLE 4-21 CULTIVATED LANDS AND POPULATION INVOLVED IN AGRICULTURAL ACTIVITIES

WITHIN THE PROJECT AREA Directorate Area in hectares Number of inhabitants

Jirdan 772,7 1171

Ar-Rawdhah 141,9 952

Mayfa’ah 1037,8 376

Rodhum 70,6 519

Source: Socio-Economic Survey, Marib-Balhaf YLNG Pipeline Project, June 2001.

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG


CULTIVATED AREA IN SUREYED SETTLEMENTS

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Ref.

See barscale

LYO

February 2006

JLL

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Format

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The scarcity of cultivated lands in Jirdan and Rodhum Directorates (in comparison with the total Directorate surface) is partially linked to the movements of sands and large dunes in the Northern and Eastern parts. The 2001 socio-economic survey also reported that areas above the villages of Jilaah and Guairy close to Balhaf have recently been used for cultivation. The levelling of these new areas increased the water flows during flash floods. Inhabitants requested a better control of upstream farming to prevent damages.

Most of the cultivated lands are irrigated by flood-waters. Sand barriers are built on the full width of the wadi (valley) to channel seasonal rain flows to the cultivated lands. Irrigated land plots are divided into basins and water flows consecutively through openings from one basin into another. Water is used for the growth of millet, sorghum, wheat, barley, sesame, fodder vegetables and palm dates.

Streams also constitute when available a constant water supply for irrigation and drinking water purposes. Water flows in most cases in open canals to the cultivated areas, which leads to the loss of significant quantities of water either by seepage or evaporation. Spring waters are used in the Rodhum Directorate to irrigate the fodder and palm dates in six (6) settlements (based on the socio-economic survey).

The number of settlements using water supply wells for irrigation in the Project Area is approximately twelve (12). These were located in the Mayfa’ah and Rodhum Directorates.

TABLE 4-22 WATER SUPPLY SOURCES OF IRRIGATION

Directorates Water supply sources of irrigation

Cultivated crops

Jirdan Rainfall Sorghum, millet, wheat, barley, sesame

Ar-Rawdhah Rainfall Sorghum, millet, barley, sesame, vegetables, watermelon

Wells Vegetables, watermelon

Mayfa’ah Rainfall Sorghum, millet, sesame, fodder

Pond Vegetables, watermelon, fruits

Rodhum Rainfall Sorghum, fodder, dates

Wells Vegetables, watermelon

Springs Fodder, dates Source: Socio-Economic Survey, Marib-Balhaf YLNG Pipeline Project, June 2001.

4.7.6.2. Grazing and animal husbandry Grazing and animal husbandry are limited in the Project Area due to insufficient pastures. These activities are restricted to goat and camel breeding. Approximately five hundred and sixty-five (565) workers were involved in this profession according to the 1994 census. Updated data on these activities have been difficult to source. Additional survey work and interviews are being undertaken and these results will be updated if possible.

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TABLE 4-23 POPULATION INVOLVED IN GRAZING AND ANIMAL HUSBANDRY ACTIVITIES

Directorate Number of inhabitants

Jirdan 390

Ar-Rawdhah 60

Mayfa’ah 20

Rodhum 95 Source: Socio-Economic Survey, Marib-Balhaf YLNG Pipeline Project, June 2001.

4.7.6.3. Bee keeping Part of the population of Mayfa’ah, Ar-Rawdhah and Jirdan Directorates (mostly nomads) are engaged in bee-keeping and honey production especially in areas where acacia trees are present. The honey is sold at Sana’a and also exported to the Gulf States and Saudi Arabia. One kilogram of honey produced for export (better quality) is sold for between US$ 60 and 70 US$. When sold in country the honey will reach a price of around US$ 35 per kilo64.

TABLE 4-24 POPULATION INVOLVED IN BEE KEEPING ACTIVITIES WITHIN THE 2001 SOCIO-

ECONOMIC STUDY SURVEYED AREA Directorate Number of inhabitants

Jirdan 175

Ar-Rawdhah -

Mayfa’ah 7

Rodhum 3 Source: Socio-Economic Survey, Marib-Balhaf YLNG Pipeline Project, June 2001.

Beehives were seen during the 1997 environmental baseline survey in the wadis, particularly near KP 205 at the plateau descent, in the coastal plain and in the wadi near Balhaf. The 2001 socio-economic survey reports that most of the professional bee-keepers had to move their beehives to other Directorates over recent years due to the lack of water and vegetation as a severe drought affected the Project Area until Spring 2001.

Shipping and Use of Port / Road network This section examines the carrying capacity and existing use of port infrastructure and road network to the plant site.

Ports Ma'alla Multipurpose and Container Terminal: General cargo/Bulk berths

At Ma’alla cargo ships of up to 50,000 DWT, LOA 275 m, draft 11.3 m can berth at the Inner Harbour buoy berths. Cargo ships of up to 40,000 DWT, 190 m LOA and draft 10.7 m can berth alongside at the Ma'alla Terminal. There are two conventional/bulk berths, each 187.5 m in length, depth 11.0 m, at the Ma'alla Terminal.

64 YLNG: Moshen Sarea YGC expert.

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The Home Trade quay, 250 m in length, depth 6.7 m, is used by smaller vessels. A bulk cement receiving and bagging plant operates behind the Home Trade Quay Shed 23, with bulk vessels discharging to this from Berth No. 4. East of the Home Trade quay are 800 m of lighter and dhow quays at depths of between 1.8 and 2.7 m. A number of mobile cranes are available, including one 50 ton capacity heavy lift crane. A 30 ton capacity floating crane is also operated by YPA.

The area inside the boundary wall of the Ma'alla Wharf has been declared as the "Aden Free Port". Customs inspections are carried out in a customs area at the eastern end of the Ma'alla Wharf. For bulk wheat, pneumatic suction pumps and automatic bagging plant provide the principle means of unloading ships and filling bags for direct delivery onto lorries. 50,000 ton capacity silos, and a flour mill, are being constructed (1999) west of the Ma'alla Terminal between it and the Ship Repair Yard. These are due to be brought into operation early in the year 2000.

Bulk cargoes may also be unloaded by grab into barges and taken to silos on the North Shore (capacity 18,000 tones) where they are unloaded by an elevator, or to the lighter quays for unloading using the automatic bagging equipment.

Ma'alla Terminal has one alongside RoRo berth; ramp width 20 m, 150 m. long, depth 7.62m.

The Ma'alla Terminal has two container berths, each 187.5 meters in length, depth 11.0 m. These berths are equipped with two 40 tons capacity Liebherr shore gantry cranes (1993 and 1995), Panamax capable with a 38 meters outreach (50 tons under the hook for heavy lifts).

The container yard covers a total area of 7 hectares, and has 426 x 20 foot ground slots with a storage capacity of 852 TEU (two high). Four 42 tons Kalmar (1993) and three 28 tons Kalmar (1985) top lifters handle containers in the yard. Nine tractor units and 38 20 foot and 40 foot trailers move containers from the quay to the yard. The yard has 32 reefer container power points. A 170 m x 60 m cargo shed with offices is used as a CFS at the back of the yard.

Aden Container Terminal

The Aden Container Terminal has two container berths, each 350 meters in length, and 16.0m alongside. The berths are equipped with four 40 tons capacity (under the spreader) Reggiani super post-Panamax shore gantry cranes (1999), with a 52 meters outreach from the quay wall.

The container yard covers a total area of 35 hectares, and has 2500 x 20 foot ground slots with a storage capacity of 10,000 TEU (four high). Eight 40 tons Fels Cranes RTG's (1999), 4+1 high, 6+1 wide, and 2 reach stackers handle containers in the yard. 22 tractor units and 45 trailers move containers from the quay to the yard.

The yard has 252 reefer container power points. A 97 m x 48 m CFS and multi-county consolidation shed, with office space, is located to the rear of the container yard, together with terminal offices, independent power station (14 MW), desalination plant, workshops and waste treatment plant. The ACT operates a fleet of service, maintenance and emergency vehicles65

65 http://www.portofaden.com

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4.7.6.5. Fisheries and Fishing

Fishing industry The fishing industry is a productive and important part of the Yemen economy. Since licensed foreign fishing has virtually disappeared in 2003, due to restrictions imposed by the Yemeni government, the fisheries sector in Yemen is now entirely based on artisanal fishing. Most artisan fishermen are organized into cooperatives that operate out of the coastal communities with small boats and a variety of fishing gear. Cooperatives exist in the former South Yemen since the early 1960s. In 1990, there were only 15 cooperatives, all in the South. In 2004, 134 fisheries cooperatives were registered. The Government of Yemen sees cooperatives as the main vehicle for development of the sector 66.

Cooperatives currently assume a number of social and economic roles and functions (sale of fishing equipment to their members, provision of marketing services, provision of financial services, sale of food, provision of small-scale welfare benefits, etc.). Three groups of cooperatives are identified, according to their performance and efficiency. Higher rates of performance are achieved by the fisheries cooperatives on the southern coast.

Key rights and responsibilities of cooperative members Rights

• Receiving loans

• Benefiting from health services

• Benefiting from pension funds

• Participating in decision-making process

• Purchasing fish equipment at lower price

• Receiving dividends from cooperative income

• Being informed about major activities undertaken by the Board of Directors

Obligations • Paying annual subscription

• Using auction platforms managed by the cooperative

• Using auctioning services provided by the cooperative through certified auctioneers

• Participating in regular meetings organized by the Boards of directors

• Electing officials of the Board of directors67

Major objectives of fisheries cooperatives in the southern region:

• To improve the economic and social status of their members

• To promote collective works by their members in fish production and collective leadership

• To distribute the income from production

66 Hoenderdos, 2005. 67 A. Bonfiglioli and K. I. Hariri, 2004, Food and Agriculture Organization, The World Bank

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• To provide all necessary facilities and equipment for fish production as well as cold storage, transport, etc.

• To provide hygienic auctions to standards set by government for fish landed by any cooperative member and to achieve market prices;

• To establish health centres, social security, and cultural centers

• To assist in providing housing facilities to its members68

In Yemen, small scale fisheries constitute a labor-intensive production system based on the harvest of fish products by small units of artisanal craftsmen. Practiced by an estimated number of 50,000 active fishermen, artisanal fishing provides a livelihood to a population of about 400,000 people and employment to a large support sector in processing, transport and marketing. Finally, its products are an important source of foreign exchange and the whole sector contributes an estimated 2-3% to Gross Domestic Product.69

The Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea waters are characterized by high bioproductivity, due to the southwest monsoon winds during the summer and solar radiation. They represent a unique and large ecosystem that deserves a high degree of scientific attention. The coastal waters of Yemen are also characterized by their high level of primary and secondary production, making them an important feeding and nursery ground for marine species, where more than 600 commercial species of fish and marine organisms have recently been recorded.70

Table 4-25 presents the total fish and invertebrate production in Yemen harvested for the years between 1990 and 2004. Total production has increased considerably in the past decade reaching an estimated potential of 250,000 tons in 2004.

TABLE 4-25 YEMENI FISH AND INVERTEBRATE PRODUCTION

Year Yemen Total Production in 1000 tons

(Fish and Invertebrate)

%from traditional fishing (including cooperatives)

Shabwa Production in 1000 tons

1990 77 - -

1991 -1995 85.8 - -

1996-2000 117.5 - 2

2001 142.1 86 3.7

2002 179.5 86.5 4.7

2003 228.1 91.7 9

2004 256.3 98.5 10.3

Source: Ministry of Fish Wealth 19-07-05; In the Shabwa Governorate, 3207 tons of fish were caught from January to March 2005, almost half of this (1504 tons) was tuna.

68 From Ministerial Decree n 311 69 A. Bonfiglioli and K. I. Hariri, 2004, Food and Agriculture Organization, The World Bank 70 A. Bonfiglioli and K. I. Hariri, 2004, Food and Agriculture Organization, The World Bank

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The sector currently realises 2% of the Yemen‘s GDP, but this could increase to around 5%. Income from fish export is second in importance after oil. An order of 28% of the production was exported in 2003 and 2004, approximately 73,000 tonnes.

Yet the fisheries sector is in crisis. In January 2004, a conference was organized by the MFW to assess the needs of the sector. The conference concluded that restructuring of the entire sector, including the Ministry, its institutions and its branches, is essential. In the long run, the Government wishes to optimize the benefits of the sector by establishing an enabling framework comprising of policies, institutions and investments to effectively manage private investment and the exploitation of resources. A fifth Fisheries Project was formulated in the first half of 2005. The Fisheries Management and Conservation Project (FMCP) is currently being appraised by the EC and World Bank. This project, subject to approval, is scheduled to start early 2006. It aims to address each of the main issues, which include marine resource management, quality control and weak fishermen’s organizations.

Due to excessive licensing for industrial fishing before 2003, an unknown level of illegal industrial fishing and the rapid growth of the small-scale fisheries, some species are over-fished. No monitoring and surveillance mechanisms are in place and statistics regarding stock and landings are either not kept or are deficient. As a result, the status of Yemen’s fish resources and actual catches is highly uncertain.

Artisanal fishing has witnessed rapid growth of production, exports, number of boats and employment in Hodeidah and Hadramaut Governorates, while other coastal regions showed more modest growth due to poor infrastructure, limited transport and processing/marketing facilities.

Most of the fish are harvested over a continental shelf, which extends 1,500 km along the Gulf to a depth of 200 m. The most productive fishing grounds on the shelf are located from east of Jela’a up to the border with Oman. Although fish are harvested daily throughout the year, there are two fishing seasons: the main season, from October through April (north-east monsoon), and a secondary season, between May/June and September (south-west monsoon). In Shabwa the main fishing season is the summer south-west monsoon season.

It should be noted that most of the production comes from Mahara Governorate (37.4% in 2004) located next to the Oman border or from Hadramaout Governorate (35.7% in 2004) adjacent to it. In 2004, the production from Shabwa Governorate accounted for only 3.9% of the total production. The average price of fish sold from the boat was 93500 riyal/ton in 1995-1991 and 173800 riyal/ton in 2004.

Artisan fishing is concentrated within 40 km of the shore. The majority of small boats (houri) are engaged in single-day fishing trips, almost daily during the entire year. Their fishing areas lie close to shore, and they cannot go out when the sea is too rough. The crew is made up of 2-3 persons. Small houris are made of fiberglass.

Today, larger houris are made of wood and have 2 outboard motors with total 80 HP, enabling them to fish further offshore. The largest houris can carry up to 2.5 tons of iced fish and may organize 5-10 day fishing expeditions. A small 15-ton houri may cost about YR 600,000 including the engine. A 20-ton houri plus engine will cost more than twice that amount, a 25-ton more than five times that amount. The sanbuuq is a large wooden boat with inboard engine. Capacity ranges from 25 to 70 tons (up to 5 tons of iced fish) and engines vary from 150-250 HP. Crew size is 10 persons or more.

Hired workers are used in bigger boats (larger houri and sanbuuq), especially when more sophisticated equipment is used.

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It is estimated that an average fisher household (owner of a houri boat) gets a net annual income of between 173,000 and 205,000 YR [=950 – 1,100 US$]; and each of the two hired crew members of a houri gets an annual income of between 88,000 and 127,000 YR [= 480 - 695 US$] (for). Income is higher when larger boats are used. There are large fluctuations of fishermens’ monthly incomes depending on the fishing season. Other issues:

• Incomes vary greatly according to the fish species (shrimps or rock lobsters, for instance, mainly reserved for export, generate a much higher income).

• Fishermen households are not directly involved in fish marketing, but rely on a network of auctioneers, traders, transporters, and retailers, as well as on a number of service providers (making and selling ice, selling fuel, gear nets and other equipment).

• The price increase between the fishermen and final consumers (from landing sites to domestic retail) may be estimated at between 50 and 150%.

• Total annual expenditures for an average household are estimated at about 200,000 YR [1,100 US$]; food-related expenditures amount to about 65% of

total expenditures (but the proportion is higher in poorer households71).

Major fishing methods of artisanal fishermen

• Handlining (gandala or nafla): Nylon lines (1.6 to 1.8 mm diameter), with 2-6 hooks, with mackerel or sardine used as bait. Use on Houri and sanbuuq to catch kingfish, carangids, groupers and emperors (at 5 to 200 mt depths).

• Surface long lines (shakka sath): 60-80 mm lines in diameter, 300-5—mt long (with floats attached) to catch sharks, tunas, and other large pelagic species.

• Trolling (tashweet): Trolling lines are used by Houri to catch large pelagic fish.

• Rock lobster traps (sakhawi or fikhakh): Traps are made locally of a rectangular metal rod frame (covered with plastic coated wire mesh).

• Cast nets (magdafa): Nylon cast nets of 1.5-2 cm for catching sardines and small pelagics.

• Gill nets (shabak khaishuum): Made of synthetic fiber, with varying mesh sizes, to catch Indian mackerel and kingfish (usually at nights).

• Round-haul (or surrounding) nets (tahleeq): Purse-seine nets (nylon material, for 2.5-5 nets) used for schooling pelagics.

• Shrimp trawling (shibak ganbari): Nets are made locally from gill nets, to catch shrimps in shallow inshore72. (See also PERSGA, 1977).

There are more than 125 landing places along the Yemen coast. Many landing places do not have jetties or quays, meaning that fishermen must land their produce on the beach and carry, tow or transport it by wheelbarrow to the auction hall or market place. In case the catch has been sold by previous arrangement, traders may receive the fish right on the beach73.

The Agricultural Production and Fisheries Promotion Fund (APFPF)

71 A. Bonfiglioli and K.I. Hariri, November 2004 72 A. Bonfiglioli and K.I. Hariri, November 2004 73 Hoenderdos, small scale fisheries in Shabwa, June 2005

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The APFPF is one of the institutions aimed at supporting development efforts in areas of agriculture, fisheries and animal wealth. It provides support, directly or indirectly, through agricultural and fisheries cooperatives and the Agricultural Credit Bank (ACB). The fund is considered an important instrument for stimulating economic activity and for raising rates of economic growth, which is considered essential for combating poverty. Priority is given to the poor rural families to enable them to increase their incomes and improve their livelihoods, and accordingly contribute to the stability of the rural communities in economic and productive activity and to curtail the migration to the cities.

During 1995-2000, the fisheries sector absorbed 59% of the total number of projects financed by the APFPF. The APFPF implemented around 11,863 projects at a cost of YR 11,863 million, with the number of beneficiaries reaching 6.1 millions. Around 35% of the projects were allocated to multi governorate projects. The resources were allocated to finance projects in all the Governorates and the percentage of allocations was proportional to the distribution of the population accordingly. Finally, in providing its funding, the APFPF relies on providing interest-free loans, in addition to providing grants, yet this approach encompasses the risks of non repayment, which could lead to increased insistence on collaterals that enable only the rich to benefit. This will create an unfavorable climate for the farmers, fishermen and the associations of poor74.

The Ministry of Fish Wealth (MFW)

The MFW has authority to regulate fishing, issue licenses, supervise processing and marketing of fish and fishery products for local consumption and export. The MFW provides specifications for imports and/or manufacturing of fish gear and other equipment. The Ministry has the overall responsibility for the management and development of Yemen’s fish resources. Finally, it is responsible for the enforcement of laws and regulations concerning marine resources.

Artisanal Fisheries in Rhodoum Directorate Rhodoum Directorate is the only coastal district of Shabwa Governorate, bordering on the Gulf of Aden. The coastal strip of the Project Area is considered to be a rich fishing area75. The artisanal fisheries are an important resource for the coastal population of the Rodhum Directorate in Shabwa.

The number of Fishermen in Shabwa Governorate in 2004 reached 1600 (compare to 65,000 for whole Yemen) with 535 boats76. High fishing season occurs during south-west monsoon (July-September). Along the coast of Rhodoom, 9 fisheries villages exist, Bir Ali (located 20km east of the Balhaf area) being the largest. Bir Ali is also the eighth largest of all landing places along the Gulf of Aden. According to the Ministry of Fish Wealth, there are 8 fishing cooperatives in Shabwa, 4 are based in Bir Ali.

Table 4-26 shows the number of artisanal fishermen belonging to each fishing cooperative in the Governorate.

74 Yemen, PRSP (2003-2005), May 2002 75 Source: Socio-economic survey, Marib-Balhaf YLNG Pipeline Project, June 2001 76 Ministry of fish wealth, 2005

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TABLE 4-26 NUMBER OF ARTISANAL FISHERMEN BY COOPERATIVE

Cooperatives names Number of Fishermen affiliated to the cooperative

Number of boat Number of Fish in tons

Shabwa (mostly in Bir Ali)

301 127 2380

Balhaf 183 135 1854

Bir Ali 120 72 1391

Al Nushaymah 65 25 822

Matla’a al ain (Ayn Bama’bad)

115 64 634

Husn al-Ghrab (Bir Ali) 98 40 814

Qana (Bir Ali) 52 22 452

Al-Jwairi 60 32 602

Total 994 517 8949, ,

Source: Ministry of Fish Wealth 19-07-05 for number of fish and local association (sept 2005 for number of boats and fishermen).

During the current YLNG socio-economic survey, 3 others associations have been reported, Al Ain (in Ayn Bama’bad, 58 members and 25 boats) as well as 2 associations in Irqah located in the western part of Rodhum directorate (Irqah association and 22 May association).

The difference between the number of fishermen affiliated to fishing associations (around 1,100 with the 3 new ones) and the official number (1,600) maybe due to both uncertainties in the statistics and to the fact that some fishermen are not affiliated to cooperatives. Note that Balhaf cooperative is the second biggest cooperative in the Rodhum Directorate.

Bir Ali is by far the biggest auction market for fish. Of the other fishing villages only Jela’a has an auction yard (unused).There are 4 main places for selling fish (Bir Ali, Ein Bama’abad, Irqah and Al Hawrah). Bir Ali is 10 times bigger than the 3 other locations. Main local markets include Ataq, Haban, Al Saeed, Baihan, Azzan and Yashboom. Private car owners transport most fish to the markets. When sold they receive 50 % of the sale value. When prices are low some traders freeze the fish and store them or transport the fish to canning factories in Mukalla, Hadramaut and Shuqra but there are few facilities for freezing. Export companies have contracts with some fishermen for cuttlefish, as well as tuna and shark fins/tails, though they mostly purchase on the cooperative auctions. The main part of the shark is salted, dried and sold at local markets77.

Ice plants are found in Bir Ali and Ein Bama’abad but both locations have insufficient capacities and water problems are common in Bir Ali (salt water in the wells) and has to be provided by truck. A project funded by SFD will bring water from the springs in Al Juwairi to Bir Ali.

77 Tash, 2002

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Fuel stations are present in Bir Ali, Ein Bama’abad and are close to the Balhaf site.

Fishermen from other towns come to Bir Ali during the summer monsoon season, increasing the temporary population78. In September/October, some fishermen from Bir Ali move to Al Mukalla and points beyond.

From June to September, the main catch is carangidae, kingfish and tuna. Most of the tuna is sold to the canneries in Al Mukalla or Shuqra. It is estimated that 3 to 4 tons of fish are harvested daily in season, and 2 to 3 tons off-season. These harvest numbers are to be confirmed once further survey work has been undertaken in the region.

Total catches per season of the main catches are reported as:

• Tuna fish (normal catch around 1500 tons per season);

• “Al-Byadh” (normal catch 70 tons per season);

• Blue thin tuna (normal catch 125 tons per season);

• Emperor (normal catch 20 tons per season);

• Brown spotted grouper (normal catch 20 tons per season); and

• Giant Barracuda (normal catch 15 tons per season).

The total catch in Bir Ali from January 2005 to March 2005 was 1984 tons79.

Balhaf Balhaf located SW of Bir Ali is part of Bir Ali fishing area. The place where reefs are present is known for its easy access and safety during periods of storm and high waves.

135 fishing boats are registered in Balhaf / Jela’a cooperative with engines of between 6-60 horsepower. Most of the fishing boats and the fishermen are in Jela’a (located 4-7 km from Balhaf cape) and stay there when the weather is good. They come to Balhaf when the swell is strong, because this area is protected by the volcanic cape. During the high season, as many as 200 boats may be located at Balhaf80. There are no people living permanently in Balhaf. Fishing is practised on both sides of Balhaf cape and in front of the cape, but also far from the shore.

During the monsoon months in the presence of local and regional fishermen the Jela’a cooperative operates the auction at the landing beach at Balhaf. The proceeds of this auction are the most important element of the cooperatives annual income.

The species harvested in Balhaf are almost the same throughout the year. The most important are trevally, grouper, snapper, tuna, shark and in the past 2 years cuttlefish has become an important fishery in the Al Ayn Bay area. Lobsters are harvested near the shore, with nets or with snorkeling equipment. Turtles are present in the waters off the coast, but they are not used commercially.

The 2001 socio-economic survey reported a number of general problems faced by the artisanal fisheries, including:

• Lack of fast transportation and cooling systems, which causes expenditures and losses while transporting fish to the main markets;

78 Source: YLNG Project Environmental Baseline Survey, Woodward-Clyde, 1997 79 Source: Shabwa Governorate, meeting with the Director of Fisheries, June 2005 80 Source: YLNG Project Environmental Baseline Survey, Woodward-Clyde, 1997

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• Lack of access to capital for fishermen to purchase modern gear and equipment for fishing in deep waters where additional fishing opportunities are possible; and

• Decrease of fishing resources at sea bottom due to foreign fishing ships.

It is reported that these are still problems affecting the fishing community in this region.

YNLG has conctracted a consultancy to carry out a socio-economic study and consultation with the fishermen in vicinity of Balhaf to better understand for example, seasonal fishermen’s seasonal movements, the functioning of fishing associations, access to market as well as to evaluate key areas where improvement can be done. Given the reference in various reports to overfishing the consultancy is requested to evaluate what measures might be taken in support of sustainable fishing, which traditional methods and new methods might be re-emphasised and encouraged, and which need to be discouraged. The study includes all communities of Al Ayn Bay impacted by exclusion from the Balhaf area, including, Al Haybola, Al Noshima, Al Ayn (Ayn Bama’bad) Al Juwaiiry (Al Gomeri), Jela’ah as well as Bir Ali fishing village located 15 km east Al AyBay. The findings from this study will be incoporated into the ESIA Revision 2.4.7.6.6. Other Economic Activities

Manufacturing and mineral extraction Communities are involved in small scale manufacturing activities such as the weaving of men’s skirts (Ma’awiz) for self-sufficiency through the use of available local resources.

Extraction of salt rocks was also recorded during the 2001 socio-economic survey in Ayad village (Jirdan Directorate). It is a monopoly of the Qaramish tribe.

Figure 4-14 presents the location of the manufacturing and mining activities recorded during the 2001 socio-economic survey.

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG


LOCATION OF MANUFACTURING AND EXTRACTIVE INDUSTRY

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Ref.

See barscale

LYO

February 2006

JLL

43683552 Figure 4-14

Format

A3

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TABLE 4-27 POPULATION INVOLVED IN HANDICRAFTS AND MINING ACTIVITIES RECORDED

WITHIN THE 2001 SOCIO-ECONOMIC SURVEY Directorate Skirts Weaving Extraction of salt rocks

Jirdan - 96

Ar-Rawdhah 165 -

Mayfa’ah 10 -

Rodhum - - Source: Socio-Economic Survey, Marib-Balhaf YLNG Pipeline Project, June 2001.

Trading and markets According to the 2001 socio-economic survey, inhabitants of the Project Area are also involved in trading activities but this is limited to centers of Directorates. Small shops are also available in villages for retail and small business. Table 4-28 provides data on trading activities and commercial shops.

TABLE 4-28 POPULATION INVOLVED IN TRADING ACTIVITIES AND COMMERCIAL SHOPS

RECORDED WITHIN THE 2001 SOCIO-ECONOMIC SURVEY Directorate Number of

workers Commercial shops

Jirdan 34 Jirdan Directorate center: 10

Other settlements in the wadi:3

Ar-Rawdhah 83 Ar-Rawdhah city: 20

Al-Hanaka: 2

Al-Haira, Al-Sabbar, Al-Sho’obain: one shop each

Mayfa’ah 40 Azzan: more than 200

Jul Ar-Raydah: 20

Qul-qul: 2

Rodhum 196 Bir Ali: 30

Rodhum: 20

Ayn Ba Ma’bad: 13 Source: Socio-Economic Survey, Marib-Balhaf YLNG Pipeline Project, June 2001.

The 2001 socio-economic survey also recorded a recent noticeable development in Ayn Ma’bad and at the Bahalf petrol station with a grocery store and restaurant. Figure 4-15 presents the location of the commercial shops recorded during the 2001 socio-economic survey.

Weekly markets attended by travelling traders, settled and nomadic inhabitants are listed in Table 4-29 below.

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TABLE 4-29 WEEKLY MARKETS RECORDED WITHIN THE SURVEYED AREA

Directorate Market name Weekly Market time

Jirdan Jul Al Mugam’ma Monday and Thursday

Rodhum Bir Ali Thursday and Friday Source: Socio-Economic Survey, Marib-Balhaf YLNG Pipeline Project, June 2001

To date since 2001, no known further commercial developments have taken place in the Project Areas.

Tourism According to a press release (UPI) dated April 2005, a Ministry of Tourism report said that Yemen's tourism revenues have been increasing steadily in the past three years (2001-2004), making up 32 percent of the country's income. The number of tourists who visited Yemen grew to more than 273,000 in 2004, a 41 percent increase from the year before.

The study performed by Watt (1996) within the framework of the IV Fisheries Project examined the coastal habitats along Yemen’s southern coast that were of special scientific interest. A total of about 91 locations were studied and six sites were highlighted because of their ecological value. The report concludes with the suggestion of performing environmental protection or management projects in those areas in order to protect their high sensitivity and/or fragility.

One of these remarkable sites was located in the area starting east of Balhaf to Bir Ali, as the most important coral areas in Yemen as well as an important fishing ground, with a high potential for tourism development. The Balhaf to Bir Ali site was one of the 4 sites with coral reef on rock out of 91 studied sites along the Gulf of Aden coast and had the largest abundance of reefs and corals out of the 91 studied sites.

In 1997, there was no tourist infrastructure at the Balhaf area. The closest tourist site is Bir Ali located about 20 km away. The most important tourist site within the area is Al Mukalla, about 150 km away, where there are various hotels and a scuba diving center.

To date since 2001, no known further tourist infrastructure has been developed in the Project Areas.

Oil and gas production According to MOM, the remaining oil reserves reached 750MMbbl in 1P (proven reserves) and 1400MMbbl 2P (probable reserves).

In 2002, the oil industry accounted for around 80% of the country’s total budget and 84% of the exports. The oil revenues represent 25% of the GNP in 2004 but could decrease to 5% in 2009 if no major discoveries are done.

The production of Oil and Condensate started in the mid 1980 to reach 440 000 bbl/d in 2002 and 400 000 bbl/d (146 million barrels per year) in 2004 according to the World Bank. In 2004 75% of the production originated from Marib and Masila fields. But both fields are rapidly depleting (annual decline 10%) and no major new findings have been made (only recent discoveries on block S2, in the basement, by OMV and on bloc 20 by Oxy).

In 2002 the government share in Oil was 60% (95 millions barrels). The Marib and Masila fields that are rapidly depleting constitute 80% of the government share. In the Marib area, fields produce mostly from Upper Jurassic sandstone (Alif Sand).

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Despite high oil prices there is likely to be a decline in oil revenues in short to medium term and unless new oil findings are made, Yemen could become “net” crude oil importer by 2010.

But, in addition to oil reserves, Yemen has gas reserves (an order of 350 GM3 discovered in Marib area) that are not produced at the moment. YLNG Project gives the opportunity to produce these gas reserves.

In addition to Oil production, Yemen owns two refineries; the first refinery was built by the British in Aden 45 years ago. It transformed (during 2002) about 130 000 bbl/d of crude oil. The second refinery built in 1986 in Marib, has the capacity of processing 10 000 bbl/d.

4.7.7. Coastal Zone Management / Marine Protected Areas

4.7.7.1. Background The genesis of Coastal Zone Management on the Gulf of Aden can be traced back to the Jeddah Convention of 1982 when PERSGA (The Regional Organization for the Conservation of the Environment of the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden) was founded. Yemen is a signatory to this since Yemen ratified the Convention on Biological Diversity on February 21st 1996. A national environmental action plan (NEAP) was actioned in 1996 with the two key actions related to protection of the coastal marine environment being:

• To prepare and developed an Integrated Coastal Zone Management Plan.

• To develop and establish a system of marine protected areas (MPA) with effective management plans.

These actions are implemented through a project funded by the Global Environment Facility of the World Bank. The project seeks (Ref 1) “to conserve globally significant coastal and marine biodiversity in threatened pilot sizeable sections of the coastal zone along the Gulf of Aden by promoting effective and replicable integrated coastal zone management process including the establishment of coastal and marine protected areas based on a strong participation of all the coastal users. In doing so, the project will complement ongoing initiatives and is expected to develop an enabling framework for coastal and marine biodiversity conservation through CZM in Yemen which will pave the way for the development of a broader program”.

The pilot sections of the coastal zone identified under the Project (Ref 1) are located in the Governorate of Hadramout. These are as follows:

• Bir-Ali - Burum, 75 km in length, west of Al Mukalla: a site characterized by its coral reefs (Pilot Area 1),

• Sharma - Jethmun, 50 km in length, east of Al Mukalla: a major sea turtle nesting site (Pilot Area 2).

These pilot areas were chosen because of their known biological diversity and because of the threats from uncontrolled commercial development and from arisanal fishing. Pilot Area 1 was later divided into two sectors. Balhaf lies on the western edge of Sector 1 (the most westerly survey sector) and it is therefore part of the proposed Zoning Plan under the CZMP.

The Zoning Plan is a key outcome from this GEF (World Bank, UNDP, UNEP) funded pilot project and it will determine the permissible developments along the coastline from Balhaf eastwards. There are a number of zoning definitions under the CZMP, but the two which could potentially affect Balhaf are (1) General Use Zone and (2) Resource Use Reserve. Each of these imposes restrictions on development with the GUZ being the least restrictive (Ref 3). General Use Zones are defined as “Areas where a significant level of habitat

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modification and/or resource exploitation has already occurred, or where development activities will be required to support the social and economic interests of the community. The General Use Zone is intended to concentrate development activities away from environmentally sensitive areas and to provide a focal area for essential infrastructure and utilities.”

4.7.7.2. Marine Survey History in the Gulf of Aden

Until the mid 1990’s, very little was known about the fish and coral populations along the Yemen coastline of the Gulf of Aden (Ref 2). The first real survey work was carried out by Jeremy Kemp and Francesca Benzoni (1998, 1999 and 2000) and this was followed by work by Kemp and Rebecca Klaus in 2002. Other (unpublished) work included an YLNG commissioned baseline marine survey in 1997 of Balhaf.

More recently, the PERSGA survey of 2002 led by Kemp and Klaus (Ref 4) was the most intensive marine survey to date of the Balhaf – Burum region (Pilot Area 1). This was then followed and expanded by MacAllister Elliott and partners in 2005 (concentrating on Piot Area 2) although the report from this survey is currently unpublished. Separately, YLNG commissioned an intensive marine survey of Balhaf in September 2005 (Dutrieux, Benzoni et al, Creocean, 2005).

The Figure 4-17 presents the proposed marine protected areas.

4.7.7.3. Current Zoning Status

The current zoning status is influenced by the two GEF funded marine surveys undertaken in 2002 (Ref 4) and 2005 respectively (unpublished). The 2002 survey concentrated on Pilot Area 1 (sectors 1 and 2) and Balhaf was an important part of this. The 2002 survey report (Ref 4) did not recommend a zoning plan but subsequently this was developed under the Project by MacAlister Elliott and partners and this zoning plan was discussed and agreed with interested parties and stakeholders in a public meeting in Al Mukalla during 6th to 8th June 2005. This zoning plan was communicated to YLNG in July 2005 (refer to Figure 4-12). This defines Balhaf as part of a General Use Zone.

The 2005 survey carried out by MacAlister Elliott and partners has not yet been made publicly available. It concentrates on Pilot Area 2 but does update some of the survey information for Pilot Area 1. The draft report does include the zoning plan for both pilot areas and Balhaf is confirmed as being within a General Use Zone. EPA has not yet officially endorsed (or changed) the report recommendations but it is understood from discussions with the Chairman of EPA that EPA fully supports the classification of Balhaf as a General Use Zone.

4.7.7.4. The future of the CZMP

The GEF funding for the implementation of the Coastal Zone Management Plan has not been forthcoming, which means that, without an alternative source of funding, coastal zone management in Pilot Areas 1 and 2 would merely remain as a recommendation and not become a reality. This would clearly be a significant lost opportunity and YLNG has recognised and acted on this.

Accordingly, on 22nd November, YLNG agreed with the Environment Protection Authority of Yemen (EPA) to provide funding (either partial or complete) to implement the coastal zone management plan for Pilot Area 1. The precise level of funding will be determined once the management plan has been confirmed by EPA .This funding will be managed through an independent third party who are competent and experienced in such matters, in order to

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ensure appropriate and optimal use of the funds to improve the coastal resources in Pilot Area 1.

4.7.8. Livelihoods

4.7.8.1. Employment status The major part of labor force employment lies in the agricultural and service sectors in the pipeline project area in Yemen. The 2001 socio-economic survey indicates the following distribution of the economically active population for the Project Area:

• 48% in the agricultural and fishing sectors;

• 11% handicrafts;

• 10% simple professions;

• 8% operation and assembly;

• 7% services and sales worker; and

• 12% not stated.

The rate of unemployment in the Directorates under survey in the 2001 socio-economic survey is 20.1% at that time (mostly youth at the age of education). Female participation in the labor force is 32.7%.

Table 4-30 below shows a breakdown of economically active population by gender and activities in the relevant directorates in the Project Area.

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TABLE 4-30 DISTRIBUTION OF ECONOMICALLY ACTIVE POPULATION BY ACTIVITIES

(1994 CENSUS)

Source: Socio-Economic Survey, Marib-Balhaf YLNG Pipeline Project, June 2001, from 1994 census

Activities Jirdan Ar-Rawdhah Mayfa’ah Rodhum

Male Female Male Female Male Female Male Female

Agriculture, hunting forestry

226 1141 818 245 1237 833 984 461

Fishing 1 - - - - - 667 4

Electricity, gas, water supply

3 - 12 - 14 - 7 -

Whole sale and retail trade, repair of motor

vehicles, personal commodities

225 1 759 5 1029 20 398 6

Construction 209 - 287 - 578 2 148 1

Transport, storage and communication

185 - 201 - 441 4 176 1

Finance and business services

- - 3 - 9 - - -

Real estate, renting business activities

16 - 25 - 34 1 9 -

Public administration 247 - 248 1 587 28 138 4

Education 152 2 285 14 381 14 138 4

Health and social work 23 - 37 1 48 4 23 -

Other community, social and personal

service activities

17 - 28 - 105 1 4 -

Private households with employed persons

3 - 5 - 6 - 11 -

Mining and quarrying 69 - 3 - 1 - 8 -

Manufacturing 71 2 384 413 204 7 24 30

Hotels and restaurants 11 - 58 - 147 3 62 -

Not stated 204 6 104 10 465 60 99 4

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As described above the Marib governorate is mainly a desert area with no real city, therefore the main economic activity is grazing cattle; particularly camels. In Shabwa, the main source of income is agriculture as well as money flowing in from emigrant workers living and working outside Yemen. In addition to this, on the coast in the Rhodhoom Directorate, especially in the Balhaf area, fishing is an important additional source of income.81

4.7.8.2. Sources of income

Wage income earned by individuals in communities in the Project Area provides the highest of all income sources.

4.7.8.3. Income and expenditure

Income levels It is difficult to obtain accurate and detailed data on income, totally or partially, although in general, all population groups have been affected by soaring prices of services and the lifting of subsidies on food commodities in Yemen 82

Expenditure The results of the 1998 household budget survey indicate that the poverty line for food is estimated at 2067 riyal per person per month (from 2001 socio-economic survey). The upper poverty line which includes in addition to basic food needs, expenses on clothes, shoes, housing, education, health and transportation is estimated at 2873 riyals per person per month.

The 2001 socio-economic study indicates that the average individual monthly income in the Ar-Rawdhah Directorate was approximately 4095 riyals in 1997.

The population pyramid shows that slightly more than half of the population belongs to the age group 0-14 years, which creates a large dependency burden for the productive labor force (TSHWC, 1992a). The productive age group of the population is between 15 to 64 years old. It was estimated that each individual of this category sponsor close to 3 other persons.

Table 4-31 below shows average monthly spending for an individual in Riyals as a percentage of all expenditures.

81 YLNG from Mohamed Al Shahedhi (YGC) 82 2001 Baseline Survey p.32

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TABLE 4-31 AVERAGE MONTHLY SPENDING FOR AN INDIVIDUAL IN RIYALS AS % OF ALL

EXPENDITURES Average Percentage

A – Food group 2827 63.83

Cereals and by products 659 14.88 Dry vegetables 40 0.9 Fresh vegetables 215 4.85 Fresh fruits 143 3.23 Meats 416 9.39 Fish 205 4.63 Milk, eggs and dairy products 262 5.92 Oils and fat 231 5.22 Sugar and by-products 245 5.53 Spices and food 112 2.53 Tea and coffee 85 1.92 Mineral water 55 1.24 Tobacco and qat 159 3.59 B – Non edible commodity group

Personal services 17 0.38 Materials and cleaning items 87 1.96 Expenses on housing 292 6.59 Expenses on fuel 204 4.61 Clothes 250 5.64 Shoes 44 0.99 Cosmetics 87 1.96 Furniture’s and appliances 63 1.42 Durable commodities 17 0.38 Domestic durable equipment 27 0.61 Transport and telecommunications 197 4.45 Services and health care 91 2.05 Durable transportation means 72 1.63 Expenditure on education 18 0.41 Other expenses 136 3.07 Total 4429 100%


4.7.8.4. Skill levels and previous construction experience Survey work and secondary data sources indicate that there has never been any industrial activity of significant magnitude in the area where the plant will be built. In the region along the pipeline, the only construction activity requiring the same trade competences is the construction of the Nemir pipeline which took place in the same area in 1989, more than 15 years ago. It is therefore highly probable that skills developed at the time have been lost. However there are in the Marib and to a lesser degree in the Shabwa Governorate, SMEs, that can provide services in basic generic trades such as trucking, civil works and building.83

83 YLNG 5-07-05

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There is evidence of high expectations relating to job provision by the Project in the affected areas. This has been alluded to particularly in recent discussions with the Shabwa Governor on 15th May 2005.84

Employment provision is a highly sensitive topic with the authorities in Yemen. YLNG are currently investigating how to approach this subject in order to get accurate estimates while carefully managing expectations.

Overall comment on this section:

All of the data obtained to date on livelihoods in the Project affected regions is difficult to reconcile. It remains unclear whether information has been sourced from 1997 or 1999 sources directly referenced from the 2001 survey. In addition, there is a reference to a 1994 data source, which is not sufficient for a 2005 study. It is also unclear as a result whether data relates to national (from census data) or Project Area level (from pipeline survey data).

4.7.9. Infrastructure, Resources and Services

The Project Area as surveyed in 2001 is deprived, like many other districts in Yemen of basic public services. The nature of this deprivation varies across the different settlements. Table 4-32 below shows from the 2001 baseline survey the number of respondents and type of problems they face in the fields of water, schools, health centers, electricity and communications.

TABLE 4-32 TYPES OF PUBLIC SERVICE PROBLEMS FACED IN SURVEYED SETTLEMENTS

Number of settlements facing problems District

Water Education Health Electricity Communications

Other

Jirdan 18 13 14 10 3 5

Ar-Rawdhah

10 13 1 0 1 5

Mayfa’ah 2 6 2 0 1 2

Rodhum 5 4 4 4 2 9

Total 35 25 21 14 7 21

Source: Socio-Economic Survey, Marib-Balhaf YLNG Pipeline Project, June 2001

4.7.9.1. Water supply

Water supply sources recorded in the Project Area during the 2001 socio-economic survey are listed below:

• Public network: water supply provided by pipes connected to dwellings from a public network installed by the government or a private project or founded and run by cooperative societies;

• Streams or wells: being a source of water supply provided by bringing water to the dwellings by women, children or on motor vehicles or animal-drawn carts (camel or donkey);

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• Artificial ponds, tanks and weirs: water source to the dwellings from covered or uncovered ponds or weirs.

Table 4-33 below shows water supply source recorded within the 2001 socio-economic surveyed area.

TABLE 4-33 WATER SUPPLY SOURCES RECORDED WITHIN THE 2001 SOCIO-ECONOMIC

SURVEYED AREA Directorate Public

network Streams or

wells Ponds, tanks and

weirs

Jirdan - 4 92

Ar-Rawdhah 1 10 20

Mayfa’ah 2 7 -

Rodhum 6 12 8 Source: Socio-Economic Survey, Marib-Balhaf YLNG Pipeline Project, June 2001.

This data has been recently updated by field survey work undertaken by the French Red Cross on behalf of YLNG in October 2005. The survey undertook an assessment of 25 communities in the Shabwa Governorate selected from villages in the Project Area in four districts of Rodhum, Jirdan, Ar-Rawdhah, and Mayfa’ah. Among these 25 villages only 6 have some water committies. Only 5 deep wells exist in the region. In Wadi Jirdan and on the plateau most of the water comes from ponds or dams (collected rain water).

Detailed findings of this survey along with the FRCs preliminary proposals for water supply projects in the district can be found in Appendix 110 of this document. Potential opportunities for supporting water supply projects are discussed in more detail in Section 7 of the ESIA in discussion of YLNG’s Social Investment Strategy.

Another water survey was undertaken at the end of December 2005, to better understand the water resources situation in the Rodhum Directorate in the area around Balhaf. 10-20 km west of Balhaf, many natural springs are present but in Bir Ali there is a general lack of water.

4.7.9.2. Electricity

The number of settlements to have electricity services varies from one Directorate to another. Public electricity services are limited to few settlements as presented in Table 4-34 below. The majority of settlements within the Project Area are in urgent need of public electricity services. The mains electricity supply reaches some of these areas but there is often no connection to the houses. The mains electricity supply predominantly covers Wadi Jirdan. In the areas of the Jirdan district north of Wadi Jirdan (Ayad, Al Sharqi, Al Qibly, Sa’adah) as well as on the plateau area there is main line supply but no connection. In Wadi Sholah, Wadi Salmoon, Wadi Mahide and on the coastal plain (Rodhum Directorate) there is no main supply line. Bir Ali village is supplied by a generator.

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TABLE 4-34 ELECTRICITY SERVICES RECORDED WITHIN THE 2001 SOCIO-ECONOMIC

SURVEYED AREA Directorate Total

number of settlements surveyed

Settlements with public electricity

Settlements using private

electricity sources

Settlements without electricity

Jirdan 96 33 - 63

Ar-Rawdhah 31 1 1 29

Mayfa’ah 9 2 1 6

Rodhum 26 2 7 17


4.7.9.3. Roads

The number of roads in the overall Project Area is generally extremely limited and they are in a poor state of repair.

There are 2 major asphalt roads in the area: the first is from Marib City to Ataq and on to Habban (west of the surveyed area) and the second connects Aden to Al Mukalla also passing through Habban and turning eastward through the surveyed area. This second road traverses the southern part of Ar Rawdah directorate, through the city of Ar Rawdah and then through the south-west region of the Mayfa’ah Directorate (through the main city of Azzan), passing through the surveyed area and connecting the 6 main settlements within the Rodhum Directorate.

The Aden Al Mukalla road was constructed during the British rule and is in bad condition. It goes inland east of Shuqrah and there is currently no road along the coast between Aden and Mukalla, except short stretches from Suqrah to Ahwar (in the in Abyan Governorate) and from Al Nushaymah (a city about 20km west of Balhaf) to Balhaf and Al Mukalla. New roads servicing these stretches (approx 150km) are currently under construction and are expected to be completed by July 2007. The 150km stretch from Balhaf to Al Mukalla is also under reconstruction, and the repairs are scheduled to be finished in 2006.

Traffic flow is currently very heavy on the existing road from Aden to Mukkalla, going inward east of Shuqrah, particularly between Aden and Um’ Ayn (70 vehicles per day). On the stretch between Um’Ayn and Mukalla the flow is around 50 vehicles/day. A section of this road is also under reconstruction between Um’Ayn and Al Nushaymah.

The Aden to Balhaf stretch of this road is in the order of 450km and takes about 12 hours by truck (4 hours by car).

Figure 4-18 shows the nearest asphalted roads to the pipeline ROW and plant site.

The 2001 socio-economic survey indicates the number of settlements connected to roads as shown in Table 4-35 below.

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TABLE 4-35 TYPES OF ROADS RECORDED WITHIN SURVEYED AREA

Number of settlements connected to transport roads

Directorate Total number of

settlements surveyed Asphalt Gravel Dusty Rugged

Jirdan 96 - - 78 18

Ar-Rawdhah 31 - 1 1 29

Mayfa’ah 9 1 - 5 3

Rodhum 26 17 1 3 1


More specifically, the pipeline route crosses the main road from Aden to Al Mukalla at Balhaf and follows the road towards the west for approximately 10 km at a distance ranging mostly between 2 to 6 km. The remainder of the pipeline route either can be accessed by unpaved tracks, or has currently no access roads.

4.7.9.4. Telecommunications Mobile telephones are widely accessible and used for communication by many people in communities throughout the Project Area.

4.7.9.5. Education Yemeni law has promoted education as a right for all and bas ic education is compulsory (education is free of charge). However, the State is not able to ensure the requirements of the educational process in terms of volume and quality in a timely manner.

Illiteracy rates in the Jirdan, Ar-Rawdhah, Mayfa’ah and Rodhum Directorates, in 1994, were over 50% of the total population of 10 years old and more and 79.6% of the female population. It is important to note a significant disparity between male and female illiteracy rates according to the 1994 census. Male illiteracy rates for the relevant Project Area Directorates was 24.54% and for females 79.67%.

Table 4-36 below presents educational data collected during the 2001 socio-economic survey. Figure 4-19 and Figure 4-20 presents the location of the primary and secondary schools recorded during the 2001 socio-economic study.

TABLE 4-36 EDUCATIONAL DATA (1998/99 EDUCATIONAL SURVEY)

Number of students

Directorate Primary school

Secondary school

Joint basic-

secondary school

School under

construction

School closed

Male Female

Jirdan 14 - 1 2 2 1413 193

Ar-Rawdhah 5 1 - 1 - 1356 243

Mayfa’ah 6 2 2 2 - 2797 816

Rodhum 5 - 1 - - 1279 504

Source: Socio-Economic Survey, Marib-Balhaf YLNG Pipeline Project, June 2001”.

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The enrolment of females in the educational system is low. The number of separate schools/classrooms and qualified female teachers is not sufficient.

Long distances between secondary school sites and settlements and difficulty of transportation, deprive many primary school graduates in rural areas from continuing their education.

Serving a total population of approximately 20,000 inhabitants in the Project Area there are only 24 primary schools and one secondary school. The schools, especially in the coastal area and on the plateau are often in bad condition and lack furniture.

4.7.9.6. Health services Unequal, poor quality, and poor access to services, both in terms of physical and financial inequity of access, particularly in rural areas compounded by an overall lack of efficiency and sustainability mean public health services in Yemen are severely in need of improvement. For example within the governorates, there are serious imbalances in the distribution of resources: most of the health staff are highly concentrated in and around the urban areas and in these settings the facilities are highly overstaffed, while services in the rural and remote regions remain severely under-staffed and under-financed. Limited public resources and poor health indicators were the catalysts from which the Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) began rethinking its strategy in partnership with the World Bank and other key donors. This resulted in the launch by the MOPH of a comprehensive health sector reform initiative. Health establishments are available for the population of the Directorates but they provide only moderate aid service.

Figure 4-21 shows current health provision in the different Directorates. Private clinics are only located in the major cities.

Since 2001, few additional health units have been opened. For example, in the Project Area among the 8 health centres existing, 5 are new or have been refixed. These new health units are not opened permanently, and were closed when project personnel visited. There is one hospital in Wadi Jirdan, built for 45 beds, but it is empty of medicines, supplies and staff. Further recent survey work has found the following local health services to be available in the Project Area, but not always in good working order:

In the Jirdan District Gul Al Mugam'ma hospital is almost empty and not working. In Ar Rawdah there is an additional health centre in Hanakah, 4 km north of Al Shabayn, but it is often closed. In Mayfa'ah, 4km south of Qulqul there is another health centre in Tabak but it is also often closed and in Rodhum Directorate, 16 km east of Rodhum city, in Ein Bama' abad, there is a small health centre.

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HEALTH FACILITIES LOCATION

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TABLE 4-37 HEALTH FACILITIES LOCATION

Directorate Government Hospital

Government Health

Centers Private Clinics

Rodhum 1 7 3

Mayfaa 1 6

Ar-Rawdhah 1 10

Jirdan 1 5 3

Total Shabwa 4 28 6

Marib Safir area 0 0 0

Source: Socio-Economic Survey, Marib-Balhaf YLNG Pipeline Project, June 2001”.

The Azzan hospital (which is in need of a lot of improvement) in addition to that undertaken recently by the USAID funded NGO, Catalyst, and theMukalla hospital provide services to all settlements located in the southern area surveyed during the 2001 socio-economic study. The hospital in Attaq, which has also been improved by Catalyst, provides basic health services to the northern parts of the surveyed area with the exception of nomads who will usually travel to Marib for health care.

4.7.10. Development needs and priorities

This section aims to outline external perception of Yemen’s development needs and priorities by multi-lateral agencies and lending institutes in particular.

A number of key agencies are in operation in Yemen, including:

• World Bank/IFC

• World Health Org

• UNDP/Human Development Report

• UNESCO

• ILO

• FAO

An assessment of the activities of these agencies and other international development programs in Yemen provides macro-level information on priority development needs. Each key issue is summarized in the following sections:

Poverty 75% of the Yemen’s population lives in rural areas and consequently, rural poverty alleviation remains difficult. Rugged terrain makes agricultural opportunities inadequate and service delivery to isolated communities is a challenge.

Rural poverty is therefore is a major focus of Yemen’s current development strategy, with the government focusing on employment diversification away from agriculture, and on comprehensive infrastructure and service improvement in remote regions.

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Gender inequality Yemen’s gender gap is among the widest in the world, with only 55 % of primary school aged girls in school (and only 24 % in rural areas), and a 15 % higher child mortality rate for girls. 73 % of adult women are illiterate. As a result, the employment rate of women is less than one-third that of men, and this employment is mainly in low-productivity rainfed agriculture and small livestock.

Water supply Yemen’s current water supply leaves 90 % of the population with less than a minimum standard of domestic supply. Most rural communities in particular have very poor access to safe drinking water and poor sanitation.

Unemployment Unemployment remains a significant economic and social hurdle in Yemen. In 2003, of 9.3 million Yemenis of working age, approximately 25 % were unemployed. With the working-age population growing by 3.8 % each year, some observers warn that current levels of investment and employment growth will not generate enough jobs to absorb new entrants to the labor force.

At a later stage further more detailed regional and village level information on local priority development problems and opportunities will be sourced as part of planned project community investment activities (Section 7: Social Investment Strategy).

4.7.11. Information sources

4.7.11.1. Media for receiving information In the Project Areas information for public consumption is mainly communicated via public and community meetings and workshops and through television.

In the Project Area, only one TV channel, the 22 May channel is received. This channel is trasmitted from Aden and received both in Shabwa and in Marib Governorates. In addition, those who are equipped with satellite can receive plenty of channels, for example the Yemen channels transmitted from Sana'a.

Newspapers are also available but in limited numbers in the Project Area.

Yemen has over 155 newspapers and magazines nationally. Below are listed the 17 major newspapers and magazines of these:

− 14 October, Aden; governmental;

− 22 May, Aden; governmental;

− 26 September; governmental;

− Akhbar al-Youm, Sana’a; governmental;

− Al Sahwa;

− Al-Ayam, Aden;

− Al-Doblomasi (Magazine); governmental;

− Al-Dustor;

− Al-Gumhuria, Taiz; governmental;

− Al-Haras Al Gumhuri (Magazine); governmental;

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− Al-Istithmar (Magazine);

− Al-Nass;

− Al-Taguma; governmental;

− Al-Thawra, Sana’a; governmental;

− Al-Wahda; governmental;

− Amanat Al-Asema; governmental;

− Yemen Times (E);

− Monthly Community Meetings;

− Community Notice Boards.

Media Clearance The Project has confirmed that there is no known restriction or government clearance required in order to publish project information through the media in Yemen.

4.7.11.2. NGOs Activities and related knowledge and attitudes

The Yemeni Social Fund for Development (SFD)

One of the main Yemeni NGOs (related to the Yemeni government and multilateral donors in the Arab world) working in Shabwa is SFD (Social Fund for Development). They work from their branch based in Mukalla. They manage 15 projects per year in Shabwa on each of the following subjects: Health, Water, Training and Education. They will also start supporting micro-finance projects in 2006. In the YLNG area they have one funded project (bringing water from Al Juwairi to Bir Ali and they have 3 other (as yet unfunded) water projects in Wadi Salmoon and Wadi Jirdan.

The main goals of SFD (established in 1997 as an administratively and financially autonomous agency) are to alleviate poverty and improve the living conditions of poor Yemenis by providing basic social and economic services including education, health care, water supply and microfinance, creating job opportunities and building the capacity of its local partners. SFD uses innovative participatory approaches that enable communities to identify their needs, set priorities and participate in all phases of the Project cycle ensuring that its projects meet the real needs of communities. Its goals are achieved through three main programs:

• The Community Development Program , which develops social and economic infrastructure and improves access to basic services.

• The Capacity Building Program, which builds the capacity of local partners such as communities, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), government agencies, consultants and contractors.

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• The Small and Micro-enterprise Development Program, which focuses on providing microfinance services— through intermediaries such as NGOs —and developing financial and non-financial services for small entrepreneurs. Since its creation, the SFD’s projects have reached about 7 million direct beneficiaries—about half of them female—and generated 10 million days of employment. The SFD has indirectly affected the fishery sector by investing its financial resources (about 167 million US$) in education (61%), water (19%), health (10%), rural roads (7%), and micro-finance (2%)85

“Public Works Project”, funded by the World Bank (and other partners as Opec fund, governments of Netherlands, USA, France and Italy) with 10% Yemeni government contribution are in Shabwa and Marib since 1996 and have supported about 200 projects (Education, Health, Agriculture, Sewage, Water Tanks, paved roads) (till 12/2003, 71 projects in Shabwa governorate and 47 projects in Marib governorate). In both of these governorates, 60% of the budgets as well as the projects were on education.

• At the present time no new projects are planned in these 4 Shabwa Directorate by the “Public works Project”.

“The Southern Governorates Rural Development project”, funded by World Bank (IDA) and IFAD as well as by the Yemen Government has been in Shabwa since 1998 as well as in the Governorates of lahj, Abyan and Hadramaout. It had projects in different sectors (Education, Health, Water Supply, Agriculture and Roads). This project finished at the end of 2005. In the Shabwa governorates, 11 projects have been implemented.

The Dutch Embassy in Yemen has been supporting Shabwa governorate up to the 1990’s. This support was through the Tash project which is now finished and replaced by a pilot project ‘TA’ (Technical Assistance to Shabwa) to support authorities in transition for decentralization, improving the ability of the executive offices and local councils in Ataq and in the various districts by holding training courses. Technical Assistance to Shabwa Governorate focuses on the governorate and Directorate levels. At the governorate level, the TA involvement has been focused on capacity building activities with the Local Council and Executive Offices in the areas of training, planning, and monitoring. It has recently been involved in facilitating the development of strategy papers and future organizational charts with the Governor’s Office, Local Council and the Executive Offices in Ataq. With respect to the 17 Directorates of Shabwa governorate, the TA is investing more time and effort in the with local authorities, training district staff in management, assisting in preparation of district profiles, the formulation of Directorate development plans and budgets, and in preparing technical and financial progress reports for funded projects.

In addition, the TA is working directly with rural communities by assisting them in the development and implementation of small development projects involving various sectors including, rural water, health, agriculture, and education.

Catalyst, a global reproductive health project, funded by USAID started in Yemen in 2004 to support the Ministry of Public Health and Population, to improve access and utilization of its health services especially in rural and remote areas. Catalyst is working in Marib and Shabwa governorates.

PHR+ is also funded by the US - it subsidizes project to support the health sector in Shabwa and in Marib directorate (training, health facilities surveys, statistics). Their headquarters are in Sana’a and they travel to Shabwa or Marib as required by their work plan.

85 www.sfd-yemen.org

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The Red Cross and the Red Crescent Society are considering opening an office in Shabwa and interested in working on some water projects. YNLG provided the logistics for their “exploratory” trip to Shabwa.

On a national level, one of the most active NGOs in Yemen appears to be CARE International. Their work is concentrated mainly in Haija, Al Mahweet and Adyan Governorates because of CARE experience and already established working relationships in these areas.

Where available, and as part of project public consultation and disclosure, further details will be obtained on current relationships between NGOs / local and national authorities and local communities, and on NGO operations in the Project Area.

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4.8. VISUAL BASELINE CONDITIONS 4.8.1. Scenic Quality

The characteristic landscape consists of desert plateau and coastal plain. Landforms vary from ruggedly dissected plateaus and abrupt cliffs to dissected upland desert plains. Vegetation is scarce and found along drainage. The region of the Upper Tihama contains foothills interspersed with wadis-river valleys which are normally dry. Sparsely scattered vegetation line the edges of the river bottoms.

Along the Tihama coastal plain, the region slightly varies from desert to semi-desert. The desert region contains low dunes of white sand with pockets and small communities of xeric vegetation. Dark volcanic rock formations and lava beds contrast the lighter sand and gravel colors.

The landforms of the desert plateau and coastal plain can promote extensive visibility. The combination of good air quality and elevated viewing locations makes clear, distant views possible, often extending 50 to 80 km. However, sand storms and higher humidity, particularly on the coastal plain, can reduce visibility at times to only a few meters.

Scenic Quality is based on the visual composition of rockforms, landforms, vegetation, water, adjacent scenery, and cultural modifications. Compositional elements of scenic quality analysis include color, scarcity (uniqueness), diversity, and scale.

The affected environment contains each of the three quality levels (Classes A, B, and C). Class A represents the most distinctive landscapes, Class B common landscapes, and C minimal landscapes. Class A scenery occurs within and near edges of plateaus, steep canyons, and cliff faces of rock and within and near the rocky coast line. Class B scenery occurs in the diverse topography typified by tops of plateaus, toes of steep slopes, rocky foothills and along the sandy portions of the coast line. Class C scenery occurs in the remaining areas of the affected environment which are characterized by gently sloping topography and broad valleys dominated by interweaving patterns of low sand dunes, sandy plains, wadis and inland from the coast line. Much of the Ramlat As Sabatayn basin is included in this category.

4.8.2. Visual Sensitivity

Visual sensitivity levels indicate the relative degree of user interest in visual resources and concern for changes in the characteristic landscape. Criteria for analysis of sensitivity levels include type of users, amount of use, public interest, adjacent land uses, and special area designation. Areas visible from major travel routes, towns, and recreation areas, were designated as being of high and moderate sensitivity.

The pipeline route passes near very few roads, towns, or recreation areas. No areas of high sensitivity were identified. Moderate sensitivity areas include the highway leading from Jil? ah to Bir Ali and portions north of the Mikrab area. Most of the pipeline is in a low sensitivity level as there are few visual receptors, including locations where viewers travel, reside or recreate. Very few roads and communities are located along the pipeline route.

The existing landscape of the LNG plant site is located along the Gulf of Aden Coast and the Tihama. Landforms are characterised by dark coloured rocky beaches and light-colored sand dunes. The topography is flat with gently rolling hills. Vegetation is sparse. No location or areas of high sensitivity were identified. Moderate sensitivity areas include the road to Balhaf.

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4.9. ARCHAEOLOGY 4.9.1. Background

The archaeological history of South Arabia begins with Homo erectus crossing from Africa to Arabia, perhaps across the Bal al-Mandab straits some 2 million years ago, and thus the oldest artefacts yet found in Yemen belong to the developed Oldowan industry. Thus the archaeological history of Yemen virtually parallels that of humanity, for the Oldowan industries are the oldest known. Based on the archeological works, the various cultures found in Yemen are summarized below:

Prehistory Human occupations are weakly known in Yemen for the prehistoric period (from the origin of Humanity to the 5th - 4th millennium BC). Available knowledge elements are summarized below:

• Paleolithic:

− Oldowan period: it includes the oldest known evidence of fossil human stone artefacts

− Acheulean period: is characterized by the presence of hand axes and is associated with fossil human forms such as Homo Erectus

− Middle Paleolithic: is characterized by the widespread utilization of stone tools

− Upper Paleolithic: is dominated by lithic assemblages based upon the production of blades and blade tools

− Near Eastern Epipaleolithic: is characterized by bladelet and blade lithic industries and the widespread use of small, microlithic tool forms.

• Neolithic: it composes the most frequent type of prehistoric site encountered in southern Arabia. This period corresponds to the transition from a mobile, hunter-gatherer based economy, to a more sedentary lifestyle.

Bronze Age The remains of this period (4th millennium to 1st millennium BC) include burial tumuli commonly called cairns, agricultural fields, pottery and lithic artifacts. Dwelling structures are rarely found and mostly from the Yemeni highlands.

Pre-Islamic Time

The cultures of the pre-Islamic period are well known as the most distinctive and impressive cultures of ancient Yemen. The pre-Islamic period can be subdivided into the Protohistoric Time (1200 – 800 BC), the time of the Caravan Kingdoms (800 – 100 BC), the Middle South-Arabian Time (100 BC – 300 AD) and the Himyaritic Time (300 AD – 632 AD). Architectural evidence includes settlements, fine temples, agricultural and irrigation systems, inscriptions, pottery, stone and bronze sculptures and coins. During the time of the Caravan Kingdoms and the Middle South-Arabia period, the southern edge of the Arabian Peninsula was divided into five major kingdoms: Saba, Qataban, Ma’in, Hadramawt, and Awsan. The pipeline route between Safir and Balhaf crosses the two former kingdoms of Hadramawt and Saba. Saba was the most famous kingdom of South Arabia, and it politically dominated the area between the 8th and the 5th centuries BC. Remains from the Saba kingdom are predominantly to be found in the region of the oasis of Marib, the former Sabean capital.

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Islamic Time

From an archaeological point of view, the early and medieval Islamic Time is not very well known. Major sites from the Islamic Time (6th century AD till now) are positioned in the western highlands and along the coasts and, thus only a few sites are registered in the YLNG Project Area. The existence of early Islamic sites can be connected with trade routes between major sites in Yemen and the holy places in Arabian peninsula and other Islamic centers in the Near East regions.

4.9.2. Pipeline Route

General: The archaeological description in the Project Area - including the description that follows as well as figures and photographic documentation – has been updated on the basis of the most recent survey, which took place in October 2005. The main line route crosses the following geomorphologic areas: a dune field (approximately 65 km), a flat desert (approximately 65 km), a plateau (approximately 100 km), and the coastal plain (approximately 90 km). Sites of archeological interest are mainly located on the plateau (highest density of Bronze Age tombs), while the flat desert and the coastal plain do not show many archeological sites. The main findings from the archeological survey are presented below, for each gemorphologic area:

Dune Field: the moving dunes are not ideal for finding archeological sites. Sites of archeological interest mainly include paleolakes, which shores can be rich in traces of prehistoric activity (eg. stone tools). The most significant paleolake identified is located at the KP 20. Lithic industries and soft water shells were observed on the paleolake’s fringe.

Flat Desert: In the flat desert, one probable Bronze Age cemetery or settlement was the only site identified. Recent transformations rendered the site difficult to characterize. At the outflow of Wadi Jordan, a wide (1 to 1.5 ha) Hadramitic settlement was identified at around KP 125.

Plateau: The Plateau appeared to be the richest geosystem in terms of archeological remains. Most of the findings consisted of numerous Bronze Age tumuli type tombs and cemeteries.

Coastal Plain: The coastal plain is a region widely covered with sand dunes and appeared to be the less rich area of archeological interest. A few single Bronze Age tumuli type tombs were observed in the vicinity of Balhaf.

Archeological Survey Findings: During October 2005, a comprehensive survey of the pipeline route was undertaken by a joint team from the Centre Français d’Archéologie et de Sciences Sociales de Sanaa (CEFAS) and the Deutsches Archäologisches Institut (DAI) As an outcome from this survey, 171 separate archaeological sites were identified along the pipeline route. These were combined into 39 main sites (named from YLNG 001 to YLNG 039 and the key sites (numbered 7-28) are described in Table 4-38). Concentrations of sites from the Bronze Age period were numerous, particularly on the plateau eg there were more than 140 Bronze Age tombs found along the main route of the pipe.

However, DAI and CEFAS stated in their final report (November 2005) that, whilst there were 171 separate archaeological structures identified during the survey, only two were scientifically significant to the point where specific action was needed.

The first site was at the outflow of the Wadi Jirdan, a Hadramitic (Darbas) occupation from approximately the second half of the 1st millennium BC. This site consisted of a settlement, an ancient field system and several irrigation structures. The settlement at the southern edge of the fields covers an area of about 1-1.5 ha. The ancient field system is well preserved and

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only partly recently reused for modern agriculture purposes. Walls of several kilometers long protect the system from uncontrolled water flows from the higher surroundings and an irrigation system was constructed at the edge of the wadi. This channel, as well as the protecting walls, are well preserved and may be damaged or destroyed by the construction work of the pipeline unless a rerouting is implemented, this being under review at present.

DAI and CEFAS confirmed that this site is of major historical interest. A protection of the settlement and the field system has been recommended. Also the channel system will be studied before any construction work is carried out. Furthermore, a modification to the pipeline route at this location will be considered (if practicable).

The second site was on the plateau where several single tombs and three big cemeteries were documented. These tombs differ slightly in typology and most of these structures are “circular tower tombs” or “tumulus”. They have a circular plan of approximately 3 m-10 m diameter. Inside, a funerary chamber made of vertical flat stones is situated. These chambers probably contain the buried remains. The chambers are enclosed by a wall like structure or were covered by a mound of rubble stones. Some of the tombs have one or more tails, consisting in alignments of small stone structures, or just some sparse stones, up to 150 m long.

DAI and CEFAS confirmed that the tombs on the plateau are of great scientific interest. They recommended that, before construction work takes place, a further detailed archaeological study is necessary which consists of the excavation of selected tombs and structures. This will be done in March/April 2006.

Finally, on the coastal plain, there was a relatively modern (Islamic) tower-like fortress located about 100m from the pipe route. This was felt to be sufficient clearance to avoid damaging this structure during pipelay.

YLNG has responded positively to these findings and, since the Project complies with World Bank guidelines on cultural heritage, it is intended that these sites will either be preserved by rerouting the pipeline or, if this is not possible, a full archaeological excavation and recording will be arranged to fully research and document these sites for posterity. The field work will be carried out around March/April 2006 (when the appropriately qualified people would be available) and GOAM (The Yemen General Organisation for Antiquities and Museums) will participate in this field work.

4.9.3. Balhaf site

4.9.3.1. Bronze Age Structures There are a number of Bronze Age structures at Balhaf, predominantly tumuli and tomb like structures. These have been fully excavated, investigated, photographed and documented by a Yemeni archaeologist over a period from August 2005 to January 2006. Any findings of note have been preserved in liaison with GOAM (The Yemen General Organisation for Antiquities and Museums) and in accordance with World Bank guidance on the preservation of cultural heritage.

4.9.3.2. Modern Structures

The modern (20th Century) structures at Balhaf have been studied and documented using the latest photogrammetric analysis techniques by DAI and CEFAS during October 2005. Six buildings have been studied and documented (North Tower, South Tower, the Fort, the Prayer Room, the Custom House and the Jail) by laser theodolite in order to produce two dimensional plans and a three dimensional overview of the main buildings. These are listed in Table 4-39). The most important and endangered buildings have all been thus fully

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documented. All the computer work will be completed in the archaeological institutes in Sana’a by no later than 20th January 2006.

DAI and CEFAS concluded that all of the buildings were in a generally poor condition. They were probably built and/or rebuilt during the British occupation. Some wooden boards for the construction of the ceiling of the “jail” (the largest structure at Balhaf) offer exact dating in the 1930’s. The Fort had been in use up until quite recently.

YLNG has fenced off the Cemetery and committed to build a temporary mosque outside the site boundary. The North Tower, Fort, Jail and Custom House would be demolished and the South Tower presently left alone (although it was in a very poor condition so may collapse unintentionally). YLNG is currently looking to rebuild the South Tower once site construction work has been completed.

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TABLE 4-38 ARCHAEOLOGICAL FINDINGS – MAIN LINE – TRANSFER LINE

E N Type of site Details

7Dune field

20 -21 627063 1715111 Paleolake remains Very hard dense white or grey sedimentation on the line, with associated fresh water shells and species

8Dune field

01.févr 610382 1726048 Paleolake remains Very hard dense white or grey sedimentation on the main line, with associated fresh water shells and species

9 Flat Desert 108 - 109 698073* 1665567* Round structures 5 round structures on top a small natural mound on the main line

10Outflow of Wadi Jordan

125 709235 1653641A wall of ancient irrigation system

Several km’s rubble walls protecting ancient agricultural system

11 Outflow of Wadi Jordan

125 709216 1653633 Channel irrigation system An ancient channel irrigation system

12Outflow of Wadi Jordan 125-126 709183 1652545 A Settlement

An ancient settlement covering about 1 to 1.5 ha with visible foundations of several monumental buildings on surface (DARBAS)

13 Plateau 150-151 721548* 1638303* Bronze Age Cemetery 22 tombs approx 150 south of main line14 Plateau 152-153 723866* 1637093* Bronze Age Tombs 11 tombs approx 150 southwest of mainline 15 Plateau 176 745133 1632105 Building structure 4mx3m foundation of remains of rectangular building structure 16 Plateau 185 750623 1625900 Bronze Age Tombs Islamic cemetery at a small slope directly on the main line. Cemetery still in use 17 Plateau 169-176 741761* 1631651* Bronze Age Tombs 7 tombs directly on and along the main line18 Plateau 178-179 745635* 1631339* Bronze Age Cemetery 20 tombs directly on the mainline19 Plateau 183 749171* 1628065* Bronze Age Cemetery 20 tombs and four architectural structures partly directed on the main line 20 Plateau 183-184 749638* 1627514* Bronze Age Cemetery 5 tombs directly on the mainline21 Plateau 184 750196* 1626993* Bronze Age Cemetery 6 tombs directly on the main line 22 Plateau 185 750393* 1626262* Bronze Age Cemetery 7 tombs directly on the main line23 Plateau 186 750992* 1625387* Bronze Age Cemetery 5 tombs about 50 m southwest of the main line24 Plateau 189 751698* 1623185* Bronze Age Tombs 3 tombs directly on the main line25 Plateau 189-190 751980* 1622498* Bronze Age Cemetery 10 tombs about 40 to 60 m east of the main line26 Plateau 195 755050* 1617512* Bronze Age Tombs 2 tombs directly on the main line27 Coastal Plain 210-211 755867* 1604846* Bronze Age Tombs 3 tombs and 3 structures between 40 to 180 m east of the main line

28Coastal Plain

314 39193841 1552733 Islamic Fortification Up to 12m x10 m and 2.5m high remains of Islamic building about 100m east of the main line

DescriptionSite N° Location KP

GPS Positioning

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TABLE 4-39 ARCHAEOLOGICAL FINDINGS – BALHAF SITE

E N Type of site Details

2 Sep –Nov 2005

Balhaf Bronze Age Settlement 150 structures of bronze age time composing three ancient settlements in plant area

3 Sep –Nov 2005

Balhaf Islamic Cemetery Islamic Cemetery

4 Sep –Nov 2005

Balhaf Modern Buildings buildings dating to beginning of 20 th century AD, consisting of a fort, custom, court, jail and mosque

5 Sep –Nov 2005

Balhaf Southern Tower Remains of a northern Tower dating to beginning of the 20th century AD

6 Sep –Nov 2005

Balhaf Bronze Age Tombs Circular and irregular tombs on top a small rocky mount outside plant area

Description

1 Sep –Nov 2005

Balhaf Northern Tower A northern Tower in a very bad condition dating to beginning of the 20th century AD

Site no

Date of survey

KP GPS Positioning

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG


0

SCALE 1/500,000

10 205 15 25 Km

15°

15°30'

46°30'46° 47°30'

N

47°

46°30'46° 47°30'47°

15°

15°30'

KPU

MODIFIED FROM

AERONAUTICAL MAP

TPC-K6A (1982)

MAIN LINE KP0 TO KP160 - ARCHAEOLOGY

7

8

9

10 - 12

13

14

160

150

140

130

120

110

100

90

80

70

60

50

40

30

20

10

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Ref.

See barscale

LYO

February 2006

JLL

43683552 Figure 4-22

Format

A3

100


AREA OF INTEREST

AGE:

PREHISTORY

BRONZE AGE

PRE-ISLAMIC

ISLAMIC

LEGEND

Archaeological sites observed during the survey

Paleolake remains

Five round structures (Bronze Age cemetery?)

Pre-Islamic Darbas site (ancient settlement, protection rubble wall, irrigation system)

Bronze Age cemetery and tombs

7- 8

9

10 -12

13 -14

0

SCALE 1/500,000

10 205 15 25 Km

47°30'47°

N

48°

14°

14°30'

14°

14°30'

47°30'47° 48°

MODIFIED FROM

AERONAUTICAL MAP

TPC-K6A (1982)

Archaeological sites observed during the survey

Balhaf (See Figure 4.22)

Bronze Age cemetery and tombs

Remains of a Bronze Age (?) rectangular building structure

Islamic cemetary, still in use

Remains of Islamic building

1- 6

15 - 27

15

16

28

190


AREA OF INTEREST

AGE:

PREHISTORY

BRONZE AGE

PRE-ISLAMIC

ISLAMIC

LEGEND

27

15 - 23

25

26

24

28

16

BIR'ALI

BALHAF

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG


260

250

240

230

220

210

200

180170

160

190

MAIN LINE KP160 TO KP320 - ARCHAEOLOGY

290280

270

300

290

310

320

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Ref.

See barscale

LYO

February 2006

JLL

43683552 Figure 4-23

Format

A3

TO THE LEFT OF THE PHOTO:

OLD FORTRESS

TO THE RIGHT OF THE PHOTO:

OTHER PREHISTORICAL

SETTLEMENTS

(ROUND STRUCTURES)

PROBABLE ANCIENT

JETTIES

SOUTH TOWER

(LATE 19th)

REMNANTS OF

PREHISTORICAL

SETTLEMENT

(ROUND STRUCTURE,

HOUSE FOUNDATION)

COLLAPSED

HOUSES

BASALT STONE

FOUNDATION

LARGEST HOUSE

REBUILT 1946

MARKET

PLACE

3 STORY-HOUSE

(DEMOLISHED)

CUSTOM

AREAHOUSE FROM CUSTOM

AREA WITH 3 ARCHES

CEMETARY

MAIN TOMB

SOME TOMBS ORIENTED N,

OTHER N-W

ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES OBSERVED DURING THE SURVEY

FISHERMAN VILLAGE (SEE PHOTO)

CEMETARY, PRE-ISLAMIC TO ISLAMIC

NORTH TOWER (NOT ON PHOTO)

SOUTH TOWER, LATE 19th

SEVERAL PREHISTORICAL SETTLEMENTS

ON BASALTIC ROCK, NEOLITHIC

1

2

3

4

5

LEGEND

2

4

5

5

ANCIENT PRAYER AREA

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG


BALHAF LNG SITE - ARCHAEOLOGY

PHTO

O

SOUTH TOW RE

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Ref.

See barscale

LYO

February 2006

JLL

43683552 Figure 4-24

Format

A3

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4.10. SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE AREAS 4.10.1. Main Line – Transfer Line

The summary of the existing environmental baseline condition within 1 km along the Main Line and Transfer Line is presented in Table 4-40. The summary has been made by dividing into sections of environmental uniformity. The areas of environmental sensitivity are displayed in a graphic form in Figures 4-25 to 4-30 for geology, water resources, flora, socio-economy and archaeology.

In summary, the following areas of high environmental sensitivity were identified along the selected route of the Main Line and Transfer Line:

• Wadi Jordan lower course (KP 124 - 132): human presence, high potential for flooding and shallow productive aquifer; a Hadramitic (Darbas) occupation from approximately the second half of the 1st millennium BC, consisting of a settlement, an ancient field system and several irrigation structures;

• Access to the Plateau (KP 132 - 134): steep slopes with high potential for rock instability and risk for land slides and soil erosion, important visual resources and potential presence of one endangered plant species;

• Plateau (KP 134 - 201): human presence is localised from KP 140 till KP 158 and between KP 185 and KP 199 ; isolated agricultural fields sustained by some rain water collection system and lined ponds, presence of some endemic plant species; Severl single tombs and three big cemeteries;

• Exit of the Plateau (KP 201 - 205): steep slopes, risk of rock instability and soil erosion, two endangered species present on the cliffs;

• Slopes of Wadi Salmoon valley (KP 203 - 212): high potential for flooding, human presence with high development in the last years, two villages (Lasbar and Al Hayrah, 710 inhabitants) located 2 km from the pipeline, the presence of water spring at KP205 in the descent of the plateau which is connected by pipe to Al Hayrah village, presence of a house in the ROW KP208, ancient agricultural practices, several interesting plant species including one endangered and five endemic;

• Coastal Plain lower section (KP 295 - 314): high potential for high flooding at Wadi Rafad, shallow groundwater and wells, two endemic species present, important archaeological sites, rapid urban development.

No areas of special environmental sensitivity have been identified in the desert along the Transfer Line and the Main Line until KP 55.

4.10.2. Balhaf site

In summary, the following areas of environmental sensitivity were identified in the LNG plant and camps site at Balhaf, both marine and terrestrial areas, from the data obtained from the various bibliographic studies and field work. Nearshore marine sensitive areas are shown on Figure 4-29 (map from the September 2005 coastal survey) and terrestrial sensitive areas are shown on Figure 4-30.

DUNE FIELD

FLAT DESERT

PLATEAU

COASTAL PLAIN

GULF OF ADEN

15°

15°30'

46°30'46° 47°30'

N

47°

46°30'46°

15°

15°30'

0 10 20 30 km

SCALE 1/750,000

5

48°

14°

14°30'

47°30' 48°

14°30'

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG


MAIN LINE - TRANSFER LINE GEOLOGY AND WATER RESOURCES SENSITIVITY MAPBIR'ALI

BALHÃF

JEBEL AD DAHLA

KPU

CPUT ANS ER INE

RF L

MAIN LINE

WADI M

HYIDA

AD

WI

SA

H

A

WA

DI R

AF

D

WS

AL

MA

DI

UN

IWAD

AM

YFA'AH

SHI ' BAYN

AD O

D

W

I JR

AN

!

LEGEND


CATCHMENT BASIN UPSTREAM OF PIPELINE ROUTE

HIGH WATER RESOURCE SENSITIVITY AREA ALONG OR NEAR SELECTED PIPELINE ROUTE (WADI OR SHALLOW AQUIFER)

GEOLOGY: STEEP SLOPE, RISK OF SOIL EROSION AT PLATEAU ENTRY AND EXIT

LEGEND - cont. -

!

!

- WADI JORDAN CROSSING -POTENTIAL FLASH FLOODS

PMF 1300 m3/s

SURFACE WATER PONDSON PLATEAU

WELL ELW-4

- WADI SALMUN CROSSING -POTENTIAL FLASH FLOODS

1000 m3/s

SPRING

- WADI RAFAD CROSSING -POTENTIAL FLASH FLOODS

1800 m3/sApp’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Ref.

See barscale

LYO

February 2006

JLL

43683552 Figure 4-25

Format

A3

160

150

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120

110

100

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60

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30

20

10

260

250

240

230

220210

200

180170

190

10

20

290280

270

300

290

310

320

DUNE FIELD

FLAT DESERT

PLATEAU

COASTAL PLAIN

GULF OF ADEN

15°

15°30'

46°30'46° 47°30'

N

47°

46°30'46°

15°

15°30'

0 10 20 30 km

SCALE 1/750,000

5

48°

14°

14°30'14°30'

BIR'ALI

BALHÃF

JEBEL AD DAHLA

KPU

CPUT ANS ER INE

RF L

MAIN LINE

WADI M

HYIDA

WA

DI

ASH

A

WA

DI R

AF

D

WS

AL

MA

DI

UN

IWAD

AM

YFA'AH

SHI ' BAYN

AD O

D

W

I JR

AN

LEGEND


Anisotes trisulcus Euphorbia inarticulata

Heliotropium fartakense Dracaena serrulata

Cleone macradenia Heliotropium fartakense

Livistonia carinensis Anogeissus bentii Anisotes trisulcus Pulicaria cylindrica

Heliotropium fartakense Ochrademus arabicus

Livistonia carinensis Dracaena serrulata

Anogeissus bentii

Dracaena serrulata

Anisotes trisulcus Ochradenus arabicus

Boscia arabica

Lineum arabicum

FLORA SENSITIVE AREA ALONG OR NEAR SELECTED

PIPELINE ROUTE ENDEMIC AND ENDANGERED

SPECIES)

LEGEND - cont. -

TYPICAL ENDEMIC AND ENDANGERED SPECIESAnisotes trisulcus Ochradenus arabicus

Boscia arabica

160

150

140

130

120

110

100

90

80

70

60

50

40

30

20

10

290280

270

260

250

240

230

220210

200

180170

190

10

20

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG


MAIN LINE - TRANSFER LINE FLORA SENSITIVITY MAP

300

290

310

320

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Ref.

See barscale

LYO

February 2006

JLL

43683552 Figure 4-26

Format

A3

DUNE FIELD

FLAT DESERT

PLATEAU

COASTAL PLAIN

GULF OF ADEN

15°

15°30'

46°30'46° 47°30'

N

47°

46°30'46°

15°

15°30'

48°

14°

14°30'

47°30' 48°

14°30'

0 10 20 30 km

SCALE 1/750,000

5

BIR'ALI

BALHÃF

JEBEL AD DAHLA

KPU

CPUT ANS ER INE

RF L

MAIN LINE

WADI M

HYIDA

WA

DI

ASH

A

WA

DI R

AF

D

WS

AL

MA

DI

UN

IWAD

AM

YFA'AH

SHI ' BAYN

AD O

D

W

I JR

AN

LEGEND


SMALL VILLAGE WITHIN 3 KM OF PIPELINE ROUTE

LAND USE (AGRICULTURE) ALONG OR NEAR PIPELINE ROUTE

ROAD WITHIN 3 KM OF PIPELINE ROUTE

LEGEND - cont. -

160

150

140

130

120

110

100

90

80

70

60

50

40

30

20

10

260

250

240

230

220210

200

180170

190

10

20

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG


MAIN LINE - TRANSFER LINE SOCIO ECONOMICS SENSITIVITY MAP

300

290280

270

310

320

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Ref.

See barscale

LYO

February 2006

JLL

43683552 Figure 4-27

Format

A3

DUNE FIELD

FLAT DESERT

PLATEAU

COASTAL PLAIN

GULF OF ADEN

15°

15°30'

46°30'46° 47°30'

N

47°

46°30'46°

15°

15°30'

0 10 20 30 km

SCALE 1/750,000

5

48°

14°

14°30'

47°30' 48°

14°30'

BIR'ALI

BALHÃF

JEBEL AD DAHLA

KPU

CPUT ANS ER INE

RF L

MAIN LINE

WADI MAHY

ID

WA

DI

ASH

A

WA

DI R

AF

D

WS

AL

MA

DI

UN

IWAD

AM

YFA'AH

SHI ' BAYN

AD O

D

W

I JR

AN

LEGEND


ARCHAEOLOGICAL FEATURE IDENTIFIED DURING

THE PIPELINE ARCHEOLOGICAL SURVEY

(CEFAS-DAI, 2005)

LEGEND - cont. -

BRONZE AGEROUNDED STRUCTURE

DARRAS PRE-ISLAMICSETTLEMENT AND

AGRICULTURAL SYSTEM

BRONZE AGECEMETERY

BRONZE AGETOMBS

REMAINS OF ISLAMICFORTIFICATION

BRONZE AGECEMETERIES

BRONZE AGETOMBS

PALEOLAKE

PALEOLAKE

160

150

140

130

120

110

100

90

80

70

60

50

40

30

20

10

260

250

240

230

220210

200

180170

190

10

20

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG


MAIN LINE - TRANSFER LINE ARCHAEOLOGY SENSITIVITY MAP

290280

270

300

290

310

320

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Ref.

See barscale

LYO

February 2006

JLL

43683552 Figure 4-28

Format

A3

BRONZE AGETOMBS

BRONZE AGETOMBS

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG


BALHAF - MARINE SENSITIVITY MAP

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Ref.

See barscale

LYO

February 2006

JLL

43683552 Figure 4-29

Format

A3

BALHAF

0

SCALE

100 20050 150 250 m

N

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG


BALHAF - TERRESTRIAL SENSITIVITY MAP

1 2

3

4

5

V

B

M

B

V

V

LEGEND

ANCIENT BUILDINGS

CEMETARY

NORTH TOWER

SOUTH TOWER

NEOLITHIC SETTLEMENTS

1

2

3

4

5

GEOLOGY

VOLCANOES

BASALT FLOW

MARINE TERRACE (SAND)

FLORAGROUP OF PROSOPIS JULIFLORA(POOR CONDITION, Sept 2005)

ARCHAEOLOGY

V

B

M

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Ref.

See barscale

LYO

February 2006

JLL

43683552 Figure 4-30

Format

A3

43683552-1903

REVISION 1


Yemen LNG Project


Page 4-107

Ref N°766-AUR-06-0001 A

Balhaf has a large natural biological marine abundance (approximately 400 species recorded). This abundance was observed in all the biological areas (sediment fauna, coral reef fauna, and commercially valuable fish species).

The area extending from 3-km east of Balhaf to Bir Ali, qualified as an area of regional importance, and it was identified and proposed to become a Marine Protected Area (MPA) of Yemen. This MPA is now part of the proposed Zoning plan for the CZM area Bir Ali – Burum, Sector 1 (Figure 4-16), which comprises several zone categories of protected status along a more than 50 km long coastal stretch and group of high aspect islands with extensive fringing coral reefs, rich fishing areas, seabird and marine turtle nesting sites and a salt water crater with fringing mangroves east of Bir Ali.

Sea turtles were observed in the sea during the coastal diving survey conducted in September 2005, but the survey did not find evidence of turtle eggs on the shores of the Balhaf area which are rocky and thus inappropriate for nesting.

Balhaf is also part of the Bir Ali fishing area which is a large commercially valuable area for local fishing industries in Yemen. During the high season (July to August), this area is considered to be a prime fishing grounds due to its high productivity and high quantities of natural shelters. However, the activity located in Balhaf has been continuously decreasing since the last few years, the houses being only occasionally used by local fishermen at the present time.

Balhaf has some attractive tourist features (eg beach, diving, fishing), and a small development project was initiated more than 10 years ago and the construction of five small bungalos was commenced on the eastern part of Balhaf but not completed. At the present time, no new tourist development projects are being considered.

The fragile arrangement of basalt rock surface can be disturbed by earth moving equipment creating a negative visual impact.

There are a number of Bronze Age structures at Balhaf, predominantly tumuli and tomb like structures. These have been fully excavated, investigated, photographed and documented by a Yemeni archaeologist over a period from August 2005 to January 2006. The modern (20th Century) structures (North Tower, South Tower, the Fort, the Prayer Room, the Custom House and the Jail) at Balhaf have also been studied and documented using the latest photogrammetric analysis techniques by DAI and CEFAS during October 2005 survey.

43683552-1903

REVISION 1


Yemen LNG Project


Page 4-108

Ref N°766-AUR-06-0001 A


ENVIRONMENTAL BASELINE DESCRIPTION WITHIN 1 KM OF ROW Kilometer (KP) Geology /Soils Water Resources Biological Socio-economics Archaeology TRANSFER LINE 0 - 25 Dune Field

Flat area covered by elongated sand dunes, 10 to 60 meters high.

Deep and abundant aquifer (100 - 500m) yielding 15 m3/h.

Sand Desert(DPs) vegetation unit.

Oil pipelines and oil company camp (KPU and CPU). No permanent inhabitants.

No

MAIN LINE 0 - 65 Dune Field

Flat area covered by elongated sand dunes, 10 to 60 meters high.

Deep and abundant aquifer (100 - 500m) yielding 15 m3/h.

Sand Desert(DPs) vegetation unit. One endemism Lineum arabicum (KP 60).

Oil fields and oil company camp (KPU). No permanent inhabitants.

No

65 - 85 Flat Desert

Flat area covered by quaternary deposits of alluvial origin. Soil composed by gravely sand, coarse and gravel.

Deep and abundant aquifer (100-500m).

Gravel Desert (DPg) vegetation unit.

No permanent inhabitants. No

85 - 122 Flat area lower course

Flat area covered by quaternary deposits. Sandy gravel and limestone pebbles.

Deep and abundant aquifer. Potential upper aquifer in the alluvial deposit (KP 95-KP122). Wadi Jordan lower reach, potential flash flooding (Maximum Probable Flood (MPF) of 1,313 m3/s).

Desert Wadi (DW) vegetation unit.

Alan camp (MOPS-NIMIR), and salt mine (6 km from line) and Ayad village: 1655 inhabitants (4 km).

No

122 – 132 Wadi Jirdan lower course

Foothill covered with quaternary materials. Coarse gravel and pebbles up to 20 cm.

Deep and abundant aquifer. Wadi Jordan crossing at mid-reach, potential flash flooding (MPF of 1,313 m3/s).

Medium Altitude Mountains (MAM) vegetation unit. Three endemism (Anisotes trisulcus; Ochradenus arabicus,and Boscia arabica) at KP 129.

3 small villages not in the ROW but located 2 km from pipeline and additional 3 villages located 5km from pipeline, total population (530); at KP130 pipeline route intersects with Wadi Jirdan/ Ataq dirt road; At

Hadramitic Settlement (Darbas) at KP125.

43683552-1903

REVISION 1


Yemen LNG Project


Page 4-109

Ref N°766-AUR-06-0001 A

Kilometer (KP) Geology /Soils Water Resources Biological Socio-economics Archaeology KP135, presence of a very old water tank (without water in January 2006) 30 from pipeline; still at KP135, cultivated land both at 65 and 200m from pipeline.

132 - 134 Plateau Access

Steep slopes and vertical dolomitic limestone cliffs. Potential for instability, natural hazards.

Potential run-off in the gully. Medium Altitude Mountains (MAM) vegetation unit. Presence of endangered plant Dracaena serrulata on the cliffs.

No permanent inhabitants. No.

134 - 201 Plateau

Plateau with flat relief limited by cliffs and canyons.

Between KP170 and KP195, 3 ponds (karif) located within the ROW as well as 2 irrigation channels. KP170 something for drinking water within the ROW. Between KP 190 and 195, 3 other ponds located 50-200m from the pipeline route; KP195, one irrigation channel 200m from the pipeline route.

Medium Altitude Mountains (MAM) vegetation unit. Presence of endangered plant Dracaena serrulata on the cliffs. Three endemism (Anisotes trisulcus; Euphorbia inarticulata, and Heliotrpium fartankense) at KP 160.

Between KP140 and 145, 3 houses temporary occupied (30 persons) 100-200 m from pipeline; Between KP150-155, 5 houses (70 persons)50-200m from pipeline; 6 villages located 500m from pipeline between KP150 and KP153 (total population 587); 3 villages (>1km) close to KP158 (329 inhabitants); KP 185 till 195 9 houses (90 inhabitants) located between 100 and 200m from pipeline; KP185, one graveyard within the ROW; KP190, cultivated land within the ROW; KP195; cultivated land more than 60m from pipeline

Neolithic flints (KP 134) and neolithic tombs on the Plateau (KP 150 - KP 170).

201 - 210 Plateau Exit and slopes of Wadi Salmoon valley

Steep slopes and vertical cliffs. Risk of rock column toppling, rock falling. Poor soil limited to slopes.

Run-off from the Plateau collected in a pond located 200 m from the pipeline and transported to a nearby village

Medium Altitude Mountains (MAM) vegetation unit. Two endangered species (Livistonia carinensis) at KP

KP208, one house occupied only during rainy season located within the ROW, 2 cultivated lands located 200m

No

43683552-1903

REVISION 1


Yemen LNG Project


Page 4-110

Ref N°766-AUR-06-0001 A

Kilometer (KP) Geology /Soils Water Resources Biological Socio-economics Archaeology via water pipeline. Proximity of Wadi Salmoon. Irrigation channel intersected by the pipeline at KP208

204, and Dracaena serrulata on the cliffs.

from pipeline and 2 villages Lasbar and Al Hayrah (710 inhabitants) located 2km from pipeline

210 - 230

Hilly area of terraces overlaying granitic basement

No aquifer Medium Altitude Mountains (MAM) vegetation unit

No permanent inhabitants. At KP230 intersection of the pipeline route with the proposed asphalt road which will connect Azzan with the Hadramaout plateau.

Bronze Age Tombs at KP210-211

230 - 241 Foorhill of Jebel Ad Dahla

Quaternary slope deposits. Soils consisting of coarse grained gravel with very fine sand cover of aeolic origin.

Poorly productive aquifer. Dry wadi with a small catchment area.

Sand Desert (WDs) vegetation unit. No sensitive species present.

Transient nomadic groups of people cattling goats and camels.

No

241 - 295 Coastal Plain Upper Section

Quaternary alluvial fan. Sandy soils.

Poorly productive aquifer. Alluvial fan crossed by wide divagating wadis. Very flat banks and potential flooding. Close to KP292, presence of water springs, pipeline rerouted more north to avoid them

Gravel Desert (Wdg) vegetation unit.

One village Ein Bama’abad (1509 inhabitants) at 6 km from the pipeline. Artisanal production of dairy products and honey.

No sites identified, but existence of any site cannot be ruled out

295 – 314 Coastal Plain Lower Section

Small sand dunes on top of alluvial and marine terraces. Sandy soil with some gravel.

Brakish water near the coast. Poor aquifers. Wadi Rafad crossed at lower reach, with high potential for flash flooding events (PMF 1,848 m3/s). Road was destroyed once. Presence of water springs near KP298.

Lower Coastal Plain (Indic Sea Tihama)(T) vegetation unit. Two South Arabian endemisms present at KP 298 (Cleome macradenia and Heliotropium fartakense).

Main road runs parallel to the line route. Housing development along the road (2 to 3 km from the line). 3 villages (1780 inhabitants) more than 5km from the pipeline

No

43683552-1903

REVISION 1


Yemen LNG Project


Page 4-111

Ref N°766-AUR-06-0001 A

Kilometer (KP) Geology /Soils Water Resources Biological Socio-economics Archaeology

314 - 320 Access to Balhaf and Balhaf site

Basalt lava flow. Volcanoes on Balhaf cap. Near the coast temporary wetlands (Shabkas).

No groundwater. Small wadis. Lower Coastal Plain (Indic Sea Tihama)(T) vegetation unit. One sensitive species found at Balhaf Euphorbia riebeckii. Exceptional natural biological marine abundance: coral reefs, sea turtles; their nesting reported to occur in Bir Ali beaches

Recent house development along the road (gas station, restaurant, isolated farms (Mafraq Balhaf 70 inhabitants) Fisherman temporary presence at Balhaf when fishing season. Site is fenced by the army. Proposed Marine Protected Area (MPA) part of the CZM Bir Ali- Burum, including LNG plant site considered as a General Use zone in the CZMP.

Islamic fortification plus Bronze Age Tombs at Balhaf.

43683552-1903

REVISION 1


Yemen LNG Project


Ref N°766-AUR-06-0001 A

Photographic documentation

PHOTOGRAPHIC DOCUMENTATION REVISION1

10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43683552

ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT YEMEN LNG PROJECT

Plate 1

1997 survey

2005 survey

BALHAF


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43683552


Plate 2

2005 survey

2005 survey

BALHAF


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43683552


Plate 3

2005 survey

BALHAF – the former custom building

1997 survey

BALHAF – the market place


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43683552


Plate 4

1997 survey

Site n°3 BALHAF – North Tower in September 2005


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43683552


Plate 5

1997 survey

2005 survey

BALHAF – South Tower


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43683552


Plate 6

Site n°5 BALHAF – Prehistorical settlement on basaltic rock, including rounded houses


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43683552


Plate 7

Site n°6 BALHAF – Bronze age tomb


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43683552


Plate 8

2005 survey

Remains of a paleolake in the dune desert

2005 survey

Bronze Age tombs on a natural mount in the flat desert


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43683552


Plate 9

2005 survey

Darbas – Hadramitic settlement seen from the plateau

2005 survey

Darbas – Foundation of a monumental building in the Hadramitic settlement


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43683552


Plate 10

2005 survey

Darbas – Remains of a water distribution building in the ancient field area

2005 survey

Darbas – Part of the main channel of the irrigation system at the slope of the Wadi Jirdan


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43683552


Plate 11

2005 survey

Darbas – Part of the ancient wall system protecting the Hadramitic settlement against uncontrolled floods


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43683552


Plate 12

2005 survey

Well-preserved Bronze Age tomb on the northern plateau situated at the access track to the Wadi Jirdan

2005 survey

Bronze Age tomb on the plateau. Visible are the orthostats of the grave chamber


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43683552


Plate 13

2005 survey

Bronze Age tomb at the coastal plain

2005 survey

Monumental base of a fortification or tower like buildings of the Islamic period


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43683552


Plate 14

BALHAF fishing area from east hill

PHOTOGRAPHIC DOCUMENTATION REVISION 1

10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43633552


Plate 15

BALHAF fishing huts and boats


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43633552


Plate 16

BalHaf site - To the left, Bal Haf on sand deposits - To the right, the dark basalt cover

BalHaf site - The rocky promontory to the south of the site with two volcanic craters - To the far background right, the bay with sandy beach where the cooling water outfall will be located.


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43633552


Plate 17

1997 survey

2005 survey

BalHaf - a small shrub of Prosopis juliflora


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43633552


Plate 18

The Toad – Headed Agama observed in the Desert


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43633552


Plate 19

Vegetation in the upper part of the PLATEAU. Main line. (KP 160). Vegetation unit: MAM.


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43633552


Plate 20

1997 survey

2005 survey

Large wadis landscape: Wadi Jirdan (KP 152) – Wadi Salmoon (KP 216). Vegetation unit: WM


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43633552


Plate 21

1997 survey

2005 survey

Sand desert landscape (vegetation unit DPs) – Main line (KP 100).


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43633552


Plate 22

2005 survey

2005 survey

Landscape of the Tihama (vegetation unit T): Main line (KP 297) - Location near BalHaf .


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43633552


Plate 23

Date palms in an Oasis. (Main line, KP 292). Tihama vegetation unit Dwarf - shrubland of Limonium cylindrifolium in a saline sabka near BalHaf.


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43633552


Plate 24

BalHaf site: Small woodland of Prosopis juliflora - Dwarf - shrubland at the east of the plant site.


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43633552


Plate 25

Livistonia carinenensis. An endemic and endangered species found in Wadi Salmoon.

Anogeissus bentii. A South Yemen endemic. Wadi Jirdan.


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43633552


Plate 26

1997 survey

2005 survey

Anogeissus bentii. A South Yemen endemic. Wadi Jirdan.


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43633552


Plate 27

Two South Arabian endemics: Anisotes trisulcus (above) and Puilicaria cylindrica.


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43633552


Plate 28

Two South Arabian endemics: Euphorbia inarticulata (above) and E. riebeckii.


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43633552


Plate 29

South Arabian endemic: Heliotropium fartakense. .


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43633552


Plate 30

Two South Arabian endemics: Cleome macradenia (above) and Lineum arabicum.


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43633552


Plate 31

Two South Arabian endemics: Cleome macradenia (above) and Lineum arabicum.


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43633552


Plate 32

Dracaena serrulata. This species is becoming rare in the area due to overcutting.


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43633552


Plate 33

Transfer Line and Main Line - Dune field. The top of the dune is moving under wind effect, the base appears stabilized with vegetation.

Main Line approximately KP 100 - Vegetation is more important when approaching Wadi Jirdan lower course.


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43633552


Plate 34

Main Line approximately KP 125 - Lower Wadi Jirdan, cultivated areas.

Main Line - Abandoned alternative section, in Wadi Jirdan upper course. The selected route will avoid the wadi and pass on the top of the plateau (to the right of the Photo).


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43633552


Plate 35

Main Line - The plateau - One endangered Flora specie, Dracaena serrulata.

Main Line - The Plateau - One South Arabian endemic Flora specie, Euphorbia inarticulata


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43633552


Plate 36

Main Line - Plateau exit - The route will follow the Flat slope, avoiding rare flora species in the wadi and in a less critical location than the top with risk of column unstability.

Main Line - approximately KP 210 - Wadi Salmoon. The route will avoid the Wadi and take an east turn (to the right of the photo).


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43633552


Plate 37

Main Line - Wadi Salmoon - Well ELW4, water depth 20m - The pipeline route will avoid the cultivated wadi bottom.

Main Line - approximately KP 210 - This section avoids Wadi Salmoon - The granitic basement is visible below the alluvial terrace.

Plate

Projet n°43633552

766–AUR-06-0001 AENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

YEMEN LNG PROJECT

REVISION 110 February 2006


Flat area covered by sand dunes 10 to 60 m high.

Quaternary aeolian sand deposit.

Elongated dunes along with dominated winds. Ripple marks perpendicular to dune crest indicate that displacement of dune is in the direction of elongation. Scarce vegetation seems to indicate that the dunes are not moving too much. Sand displacement limited to upper must cover and not the dune as a whole.

Interdunary depression filled with finely layered silty-clayish beige deposit of temporary pond after rainfall (white spots on air photos).

Deep aquifer (100-500m), highly productive, of mixed type (pores and fissures), buried under other formations - one well sampled during the survey : ELW-11 (water depth > 100m, Yield 15m3/h), one abandoned well near KP 16.

MAIN LINE KP 0 - 65: DUNE FIELD

Geomorphology

Geological setting

Hydrogeology

40

Plate

Projet n°43633552


YEMEN LNG PROJECT



Flat area covered by black gravel and some sand.

Quaternary deposits, alluvial origin, some eolian sand.

Small gravels and pebbles of alluvial origin subangular to subrounded in shape- 10 to 50 mm in size - eolian polish, black desert patina. Coarse sand 1 to 5 mm in diameter, some fine grained sand.

Deep aquifer (100-500m), highly productive, of mixed type (pores and fissures), buried under other formations - no well identified during the survey in this area.

MAIN LINE KP 65 - 85: FLAT DESERT

Geomorphology

Geological setting

Hydrogeology

41

Plate

Projet n°43633552


YEMEN LNG PROJECT



Flat area gently sloping less than 1%.

Quaternary deposits alluvial origin.

End of wadi courses, oriented N.W. Pebbles reworked by wadis, coarse limestone, S.E., dolomitic beige, vermiculated on surface, aeolian polish, cherts debris. Divagating rivers courses.

Salt mine, 1 km South of KP 109 in Jurassic bed - Jebel Mellah.

Deep aquifer (100-500m), highly productive, of mixed type (pores and fissures), buried under other formations. One well sampled during the survey ELW-9 (water depth 234m.) - one well observed in a village (KP 115) but not functioning.From KP 95 to KP 122 : potential upper aquifer, moderately or poorly productive, in which intergranular flow is dominant -no well identified during the survey in this area.

MAIN LINE KP 85 - 122: END OF WADI COURSES

Geomorphology

Geological setting

Hydrogeology

42

Plate

Projet n°43633552


YEMEN LNG PROJECT



Gently sloping area 1-3%.

Old and recent quaternary alluvial fan deposits

Divagating rivers courses, channeling wadis, coarse gravels and pebbles up to 20 cm in diameter - sandy matrix - Older terraces are flatter than the recent ones (1 to 3%).

Some cultivated area wadi beds, fine grained sand.

Deep aquifer (500m), highly productive, of mixed type (pores and fissures), buried under other formations - one well sampled during the survey : ELW-10 (water depth 500m).

MAIN LINE KP 122 - 132: FOOTHILL

Geomorphology

Geological setting

Hydrogeology

43

Plate

Projet n°43633552


YEMEN LNG PROJECT



Steep slope of scree.

Quaternary slope deposits. Scree of dolomitic limestone on Cretaceous sandstone.

Two generations of slope deposits (SD) Eboulis (E) of huge size ( up to 10-20 m in diameter) Column like (Co) are unstable block of dolomitic limestone (Do) delineated by diaclases and fault grid (d1 d2), overlying Cretaceous Sandstone (S). Punching clayish green layer intercalated between Cretaceous sandstone and tertiary dolomitic limestone.

MAIN LINE KP 132 - 134: PLATEAU ACCESS

Geomorphology

Geological setting

44

Plate

Projet n°43633552


YEMEN LNG PROJECT



Plateau with flat relief limited by high cliffs and canyons.

Tertiary dolomitic limestone - green clay layer.

Massive white dolomitic limestone (Do), poorly bedded, massive, approximately 200 m thick

Overlain on the plateau itself by 5 - 10 m thick layer of green clay (C) and 2-5 m limestone (L).

Some ponds (P) at foothill collect and store water from rainfall and contained in limestone (L). See KP 155 - KP 167 - KP 185 - KP 196. Deep aquifer (500-1000m), highly productive, of mixed type (pores and fissures), buried under other formations - no well were identified during the survey on the plateau. Water from fissures and surface run-off collected at the foot of the limestone cliffs from the plateau (ELW 6 and ELW 8).

MAIN LINE KP 134 - 201: PLATEAU

Geomorphology

Geological setting

Geomorphology

Geological setting

Hydrogeology

45

Plate

Projet n°43633552


YEMEN LNG PROJECT



Steep cliff, huge scree and slope deposit on steep relief.

Tertiary dolomitic limestone overlying Cretaceous sandstone Quaternary slope deposit..

Same comments, same geological feature as Plateau access KP 132-134, reversing orientation of geological cross section. On the upper surface deposits (E), risk of column landslide.

Deep aquifer - no well in this narrow zone. Surface water collected from cliff fissures and carried through small pipes to reservoirs in the villages.

MAIN LINE KP 201 - 205: PLATEAU EXIT

Geomorphology

Geological setting

Hydrogeology

46

Plate

Projet n°43633552


YEMEN LNG PROJECT



Hilly area and wadi cut.

Quaternary sediment on slopes and alluvial terraces on Cretaceous sandstone. Proterozoïc granite dominating wadiMahyid plain.

MAIN LINE KP KP 205 - KP 230 : HILLY AREA

Geomorphology

Geological setting

47

Plate

Projet n°43633552


YEMEN LNG PROJECT



Gentle slope and wadis crossing.

Quaternary slope deposits. Thin sand sheet in the depressions overlying dolomitic limestone.

Coarse grained colluvium (5-15 cm) - more or less reworked by wadis, some sand cover in low land of aeolian origin.

Moderately or poorly productive aquifer in which intergranular flow is dominant - no well identified during the survey in this area.

MAIN LINE KP 230 - 241: FOOT HILL OF JEBEL AD DAHLA'

Geomorphology

Geological setting

Hydrogeology

48

Plate

Projet n°43633552


YEMEN LNG PROJECT



Rather flat area, divagating rivers.

Coarse grained Quaternary alluvial fan deposit, becoming finer towards SE as the water energy decreases.

Some sand sheet cover.

Moderately or poorly productive aquifer in which intergranular flow is dominant - no well identified during the survey in this area.

MAIN LINE KP 241 - 275: COASTAL PLAIN UPPER SECTION

Geomorphology

Geological setting

Hydrogeology

49

Plate

Projet n°43633552


YEMEN LNG PROJECT



Gently hilly area. Sand dunes.

Quaternary alluvial and marine terraces of at least two generations. Sand dune cover.

Quaternary alluvial and marine terraces from 5 to 50 m above lower plain level. Two (or three?) different levels. Gravel and sand in alluvial terraces, beach sandstones and lamellibranch, gastropods, coral in marine terraces.

Sand dunes up to 15 m high, mobile, barkanoid in shape.

Only local and limited groundwater resources - one water spring (ELW-1) identified during the survey water is used for irrigation or stored in small concrete reservoirs (ELW-2). From KP 295, only brackish or saline groundwater along the coast.

MAIN LINE KP 275 - 314: COASTAL PLAIN LOWER SECTION

Geomorphology

Geological setting

Hydrogeology

50

Plate

Projet n°43633552


YEMEN LNG PROJECT



Hilly area - wadi crossing.

Quaternary lava flows and scories. Lapillis cones. Marine terraces.

Black areas on basaltic lava flows. Ochraceous reddish scories and lapillis. Marine terraces approximately 5 to 10 m El., 25 to 35 m El. and up to 80 m, above present sea level.

No groundwater.

MAIN LINE KP 314 - 317: ACCESS TO BALHAF PLANT SITE

Geomorphology

Geological setting

Hydrogeology

51

Plate

Projet n°43633552


YEMEN LNG PROJECT



Hilly area - beaches - volcanoes

Quaternary lava flows and scories. Lapillis cones. Marine terraces, present beach deposit.

No groundwater.

BAL HAF PLANT SITE

Geomorphology

Geological setting

Hydrogeology

52


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43633552


Plate 38

Main Line - Coastal plain - Scarse vegetation on sand dunes.

Main Line - Coastal plain near KP 300 approaching the coast - The pipeline route will avoid areas with vegetation.


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43633552


Plate 39

Salt mine – near KP100 of the Main Line.


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43633552


Plate 53

Some common coral species

Porites cfr lutea (Poritidae)

Goniopora (Poritidae)

Stylophora pistillata (Pocilloporidae)

Goniastrea retiformis (Faviidae)


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43633552


Plate 54


Montipora sp. (Acroporidae)

Hydnophora exesa (Faviidae)

Acropora downingi (Acroporidae)

Acropora cfr. muricata (Acroporidae)


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43633552


Plate 55


Lobophyton sp. (soft coral)

Rhodactis cfr. rhodostoma (corallimorpharian)


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43633552


Plate 56


Sinularia (Soft coral)

Lithophyton (Soft coral)


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43633552


Plate 57


Platygyra daedalea (Faviidae)

Galaxea astreata (Oculinidae)

Pavona cactus (Agariciidae)

Galaxea astreata (Oculinidae)

Palithoa


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43633552


Plate 58

Shallow areas without coral

Basaltic rocks (free)

Basaltic rocks (in place)


10 February 2006

766–AUR-06-0001 A

Projet n°43633552


Plate 59

Some common invertebrates

Sponge

Lobster

Sea urchin

43683552-1903

REVISION 1


Yemen LNG Project


Ref N°766-AUR-06-0001 A

Appendix 4.1 - Distribution of settlements and population data along the

pipeline route

Directorates Region Settlement names

Position towards the pipe (KP number)

Distance from

pipeline less than

2000m

Distance from

pipeline less than

5000m


easy access

Inhabitants

(CSO

Inhabitants Mohsen

Number of houses

CSO

Number of houses

(Mohsen)

Schools (number)

Schools (number of students B+G)

Secondary School (boys+girls)

Health center (number)

2004 2005 2004 2005Jirdan Ayad region

(Mustapha report n1)

AYAD SW KP 110 x 1655 1650 170 145 1 180+70 1

AL SHARQI W KP 125 x 102 105 6 7

Al-Qibly W KP 125 x 47 42 6 8

Sa’adah W KP 126 x 268 250 23 27 1 (30+10)Al Jodaib E KP 125 x 84 9

Barirah E KP 125 x 7 5 3 4 (3 empty)

Al DHOJ E KP 125 x 22 20 5 7 (5 empty)

Alshiq E KP 130 x 1110 1800 132 105 1 386+182Al Bowairedah E KP 130 x 246 383 27 27

Al Dhawahi E KP 132 x 358 31

Al Bardah E KP 135 x 410 740 45 48 1 67+45 Al Ojaima E KP 138 x 208 340 19 23

Ameeq (Gul Al Mujamma'a

E KP 140 x 1430 1350 121 88 2 152+113 +sec 320B

1 1(new but often closed) + ! hospital (but almost

empty)

AL KARIF KP 142 x 541 600 64 55

Al Rakeh KP 145 x 368 380 32 32 1 60+30Al Jeef E KP 145 x 503 681 54 64

Al Naqeeb E KP 145 x 181 450 23 23

AL HOJEIL E KP 145 x 286 320 31 34

AL ATTF E KP 145 x 34 34 6 6

Shaab Maqar E KP 145 x 502 502 68 68

Middle Plateau(Mustapha reportn4)

AL KHUDAMAH W KP 150 x 0 50 2 4

MAGHRAF S KP 135 x 137 220 16 25 1 40+10Al Hait S KP 135 x 65 150 15 1 13+12FEEQ S KP 135 x 111 194 18 21

Wadi Jirdan(Mustapha report n 3)

Wadi Sholah(Mustapha reportn2)



Distance from

pipeline less than

2000m

Distance from

pipeline less than

5000m


easy access

Inhabitants

(CSO

Inhabitants Mohsen

Number of houses

CSO

Number of houses

(Mohsen)

Schools (number)




SHROOj AL ALHANAH

E KP 150 x 13 0 4 4

GHOOL AL SAMARAH

W KP 153 x 57 100 10 10

Assafah W KP 153 x 50 40 6 5

AL Dhaherah E KP 151 x 325 400 29 40 1 75+35Al Khalefah E KP 151 x 36 30 11 11

La'abal E KP 151 x 106 160 16 16

AL SHARFA NE KP 158 x 44 150 8 10

Al Ghobarah NE KP 158 x 46 40 8 8

Bork NE KP 158 x 239 200 31 30 1 50+20AL BILAD E KP 160 x 458 400 42 30 1 13+17

SABT E KP 163 x 33 200 3 25 1 17+20AL SARWAH E KP 163 x 103 100 11 17

Al Dhala'ah E KP 163 x 34 5

HOUSN AL BITANAH

E KP 163 x 116 150 14 15 1 59+44

Haba'a (including Laqeelat)

NE KP 158 x 71 300 7 25 1 40+20

Sub Total 10406 12536 1116 1071

Ar-Rawdhah

RASKALB KP 195 x 30 4

Khayoon KP 195 x 41 10

FARSH W KP 199 x 0 10

Al Hanakah W KP 207 x 668 100 96 100 2 76G 1 (new but often closed)

Al Saylah SW KP 207 x 32 70 7 6

Al Madhayeh SW KP 207 x 125 180 17 16

Al Sha'abeen SW KP 207 x 138 300 20 20 1

Lasbar SW KP 208 x 225 400 27 30

Al Hayrah SW KP 208 x 485 623 56 49

AL KHUDHIH non identified on map

38 50 4 4

Sub Total 1782 1723 251 225

Wadi Salmoon(Mustapha report n6)

Middle Plateau(Mustapha reportn4)

Wadi Jirdan (Mustapha reportn3)

Plateau End (Mustapha report n5)



Distance from

pipeline less than

2000m

Distance from

pipeline less than

5000m


easy access

Inhabitants

(CSO

Inhabitants Mohsen

Number of houses

CSO

Number of houses

(Mohsen)

Schools (number)




Mayfa'ah Wadi Mahyid(Mustapha report n 7)

AL JARAH N KP 225 x 394 400 39 45 1 75bAL BEDA'A (including Bitah)

N KP 225 x 99 100 11 25

AL UNAIZAH NE KP 225 x 108 115 11 13

AL SALHABAH NE KP 225 x 21 25 4 6

QUL QUL NE KP 225 x 416 450 47 60 1 200b 1 (new but often closed)

AL MASFALAH NE KP 225 x 35 100 4 16

AL KHARBAH N KP 225 67 70 4 5

TABAK NE KP 225 x 152 170 14 35 1 + 1 under consrst.

107 1 (new but often closed)

AROMAH NE KP 225 x 247 260 20 20

HARAB NE KP 225 x 87 95 8 5

Sub Total 1626 1785 162 230

Rodhum EIN BA MA'ABAD S KP 292 x 1509 1800 182 315 1 235+150 1AL JWAIRI S KP 298 x 852 1000 106 128 1 169+93JELA'AH (including al Faqous)

SE KP 310 x 658 864 92 83 1 96+73

FARJOOMA S KP 300 x 289 204 34 27

MAFRAQ BALHAF SE KP 305 x 71 144 13 21

Bir Ali 20km east of KP305

x 2084 1650 358 320 1 300+145 1(restorated)

Sub Total 5463 5662 785 894

Total 19277 21706 2314 2420

Rodhum Balhaf(Mustapha report n 8)

43683552-1903

REVISION 1


Yemen LNG Project


Ref N°766-AUR-06-0001 A

Appendix 4.2 – Maps of Pipeline route

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Reference

1 / 100 000

LYO

ENVIRONMENTALAND SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT February 2006

LG/JLL

43683552

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Reference

1 / 100 000

LYO

ENVIRONMENTALAND SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT 15/11/2005

LG/JLL

43683480 Map 1

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Reference

1 / 100 000

LYO


LG/JLL

43683552 Map 1

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Reference

1 / 100 000

LYO


LG/JLL

43683552 Map 2

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Reference

1 / 100 000

LYO


LG/JLL

43683552 Map 3

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Reference

1 / 100 000

LYO


LG/JLL

43683552 Map 4

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Reference

1 / 100 000

LYO


LG/JLL

43683552 Map 5

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Reference

1 / 100 000

LYO


LG/JLL

43683552 Map 6

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Reference

1 / 100 000

LYO


LG/JLL

43683552 Map 7

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Reference

1 / 100 000

LYO


LG/JLL

43683552 Map 8

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Reference

1 / 100 000

LYO


LG/JLL

43683552 Map 9

43683552-1903

REVISION 1


Yemen LNG Project


Page 5-i

Ref N°766-AUR-06-0001 A

CONTENTS

Section Page Number

5. ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES.........5-1

5.1. PIPELINES : ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES ..................5-2 5.1.1. Soil, water and groundwater resources ............................................................... 5-2 5.1.1.1. Soil.................................................................................................................. 5-2 5.1.1.2. Surface Water and Groundwater..................................................................... 5-7 5.1.2. Biological Resources ........................................................................................ 5-13 5.1.3. Air Quality ......................................................................................................... 5-16 5.1.3.1. Pipeline Construction .................................................................................... 5-16 5.1.3.2. Pipeline Operation......................................................................................... 5-16 5.1.4. Ambient Noise Level ......................................................................................... 5-17 5.1.4.1. Pipeline Construction .................................................................................... 5-17 5.1.4.2. Pipeline Operation......................................................................................... 5-18

5.2. BALHAF LNG PLANT : ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES 5-20 5.2.1. Soil, Water and Groundwater Resources .......................................................... 5-20 5.2.1.1. Soil and Surface Water ................................................................................. 5-20 5.2.1.2. Groundwater ................................................................................................. 5-20 5.2.2. Biological Resources ........................................................................................ 5-25 5.2.2.1. Terrestrial Fauna and Flora........................................................................... 5-25 5.2.2.2. Intertidal and marine ecosystems.................................................................. 5-26 5.2.3. Air Quality ......................................................................................................... 5-36 5.2.3.1. LNG Plant Construction................................................................................. 5-36 5.2.3.2. LNG Plant Operation..................................................................................... 5-36 5.2.4. Ambient Noise Level ......................................................................................... 5-39 5.2.4.1. LNG Plant Construction................................................................................. 5-39 5.2.4.2. LNG Plant Operation..................................................................................... 5-40

5.3. PIPELINES AND BALHAF LNG PLANT : SOCIO-ECONOMIC RECEPTORS ................5-43 5.3.1. Local Communities and Population Centres...................................................... 5-44 5.3.2. Local Economy and Livelihoods........................................................................ 5-46 5.3.2.1. Fishing .......................................................................................................... 5-46 5.3.2.2. Land (Ownership and Access) ...................................................................... 5-48 5.3.2.3. Local employment ......................................................................................... 5-49 5.3.2.4. Yemeni Content of Workforce ....................................................................... 5-49 5.3.2.5. Local procurement of goods and services ..................................................... 5-50 5.3.3. Infrastructure and services................................................................................ 5-51 5.3.4. Tourism and Visual Resources ......................................................................... 5-52 5.3.5. Archaeology and Cultural Heritage.................................................................... 5-53 5.3.5.1. Pipeline ......................................................................................................... 5-53 5.3.5.2. Balhaf Site..................................................................................................... 5-54

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Page 5-ii

Ref N°766-AUR-06-0001 A

FIGURES

After page n°.

Figure 5.1 Plateau entrance initial route and alternative 5-2

Figure 5.2 Overview of plateau exit initial route and alternative 5-2

Figure 5.3 Small pond on the plateau at KP 178 and route alternative 5-7

Figure 5.4 Balhaf approach constraints and alternative route 5-7

Figure 5.5 Balhaf terrestrial sensitivity map 5-25

Figure 5.6 Balhaf marine sensitivity map 5-26

Figure 5.7 Maximum temperature at the sea surface and 1 m above the seabed in the vicinity of the water outfall

5-27

Figure 5.8 Dredged materials disposal area and extent of deposition with thickness greater than 1 mm

5-29

Figure 5.9 Locations with coral along the coast and in the Gulf of Aden

5-30

TABLES Table 5.1 Potential environmental impacts, mitigation measures and residual impact

significance of pipelines on soil

Table 5.2 Potential environmental impacts, mitigation measures and residual impact significance of pipelines on surface water and groundwater

Table 5.3 Potential environmental impacts, mitigation measures and residual impact significance of pipelines on flora and fauna

Table 5.4 Potential environmental impacts, mitigation measures and residual impact significance of LNG Plant on soil, surface water and groundwater

Table 5.5 Localization of projected coastal rock berm works

Table 5.6 Potential environmental impacts, mitigation measures and residual impact significance of LNG Plant on intertidal and marine ecosystems

Table 5.7 Potential social impacts, mitigation measures and residual impact significance of pipeline on socio-economic receptors

Table 5.8 Potential social impacts, mitigation measures and residual impact significance of LNG Plant on socio-economic receptors

APPENDICES

Appendix 5.1 Thermal discharge model (Sogreah study, 2005)

Appendix 5.2 Preliminary Impact Assessment of Upstream facility (Marib CPU-K¨PU) Upgrades

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REVISION 1


Yemen LNG Project


Page 5-1

Ref N°766-AUR-06-0001 A

5. ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES

This section presents the potential environmental and social impacts resulting from the construction, operation and decommissioning of the pipelines (Main Line and Transfer Line) and associated construction camps, and from the construction and operation of the Balhaf LNG Plant and associated facilities and camps. These impacts result from planned activities or can be the consequence of unplanned events such as accidental spills or equipment failure. The section discusses the various mitigation measures that have been built into the design or that are recommended to minimize the occurrence and/or the magnitude of these potential impacts and unplanned events. Some residual impact is expected to remain after mitigation measures, their significance is scored and their severity and consequence is discussed. Section 7.0 Environmental and Social Management System (ESMS) presents the process of effective implementation of the mitigation measures and management of the residual impact through management, monitoring plans and compensation plans when avoiding the impact is not possible. The methodology and scoring scale of this impact evaluation is presented in Section 1.0.

The design of the upstream facility expansion and upgrade related to the YLNG Project (Marib CPU-KPU) is currently in the conceptual stage. Preliminary and final design phases have not yet begun. Accordingly, details regarding the construction and operation of upstream facilities related to the YLNG Project are not yet available. As such, a detailed assessment of the environmental and social impacts from the upstream portion of the Project is not possible at this time. Instead, a preliminary assessment of the environmental and social impacts of the upstream project has been done and is provided in this ESIA included as Appendix 5.2. This preliminary assessment is provided along with a commitment to verify the findings as information becomes available and to fully address mitigation measures in an ESMP. The preliminary assessment in Appendix 5.2 considers major environmental and social aspects of the upstream project and their impacts to likely sensitive receptors. The preliminary assessment relied on the environmental and social characterization provided in Section 4 of the ESIA. Assessment of impacts followed the assessment scheme provided in Section 1 of the ESIA.

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REVISION 1


Yemen LNG Project


Page 5-2

Ref N°766-AUR-06-0001 A

5.1. PIPELINES: ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES

5.1.1. SOIL, WATER AND GROUNDWATER RESOURCES

5.1.1.1. Soil

Overview The main potential impact of the pipelines on soil is soil erosion due to the excavations on steep slopes (access and exit of the plateau) in order to construct the pipeline ROW and the temporary access route onto and off the plateau for the construction vehicles. During operation, there is a potential for soil erosion due to the fact that the pipeline ROW may become a preferred run off pathway for rainwater.

The mitigation measures that have been put in place to reduce soil erosion and other potential impacts on soil such as contamination are discussed in Table 5.1 below. This table also presents the residual impact significance of the pipelines on soil.

Conclusion The pipeline route has been selected to avoid zones with the potential for soil erosion including the access and the exit of the plateau (Figures 5.1 and 5.2). In addition, construction techniques such as surface water run off diversion channels and the use of civil protection works such as gabions will ensure that soil erosion is minimized during the construction and operation phases. During the operation phase, regular maintenance will ensure that soil erosion is minimized. After decommissioning, protection measures will be implemented to minimize the possibility of soil erosion occurring along the pipeline ROW. Strict adherence to the hazardous chemical management plan will reduce the likelihood of accidental spills which could contaminate soil.

In September 2005, a terrestrial survey was carried out along the pipeline route which confirmed the environmental conditions encountered during the 1997 survey.

Therefore, the residual impact of the pipeline on soil is considered to be negligible.

Title

Location

Client


PLATEAU ENTRANCE INITIAL ROUTEAND ALTERNATIVE

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Ref.

No barscale

LYO

February 2006

JLL

43683552 Figure 5-1

Format

A4

Title

Location

Client


OVERVIEW OF PLATEAU EXIT INITIAL ROUTEAND ALTERNATIVE

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Ref.

No barscale

LYO

February 2006

JLL

43683552 Figure 5-2

Format

A4

43683552-1903

REVISION 1

Date : 10 February 2006


Yemen LNG Project


Page 5-3

Ref N°766-AUR-06-0001 A

Table 5-1: Potential environmental impacts, mitigation measures and residual impact significance of pipelines on soil

Activity Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Impacts Residual Impact Significance

Construction

• Pipeline construction

• ROW clearance and preparation

• Access road construction

• Trenching

• Pipe laying

• Backfilling and reinstatement

• Construction camps

• Pipeline hydrotesting

• Waste generation

• Soil erosion and slope instability in steep slopes due to excavation for ROW and the creation of an access route for construction vehicles on the plateau.

• Two options were studied (see Figures 5.1 and 6-3 in Section 6.0) for accessing the plateau at KP 130. The second alternative, although longer, was chosen because it involves less excavation and thus less potential for soil erosion.

• The pipeline route follows a canyon to descend the first half of the plateau and then for the second half (KP 200), two alternatives were studied. The second alternative was preferred as it is less exposed to rock column toppling and it requires less cut and fill therefore there is less potential for soil erosion (Figure 5.2).

• During construction, the pipeline ROW and access roads will be constructed on both ends of the plateau. They will be located in the canyons along the pipeline trench. Their design will include surface water run-off diversion concrete channels and civil protection works (gabions, lined ditches, retaining structures and concreted sections of road on steep slopes).

• The pipe will be buried along its entire route. The ROW will be approximately 17 m width.

• The selected pipeline route and the proposed construction techniques will minimize soil erosion to levels considered not discernible (i.e. no gullies or rills). In addition, the soil present along the majority of the pipeline is sand (KP 0 to KP 66) or rock on the plateau (KP 130 to 200). These types of soil are not vulnerable to erosion.

Negligible

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Page 5-4

Ref N°766-AUR-06-0001 A


• Potential soil contamination from accidental spills from vehicles and heavy equipment or from liquid waste

• Develop and implement spill management plans (See Section 7.0) and avoid refuelling and lubrication in sensitive areas.

• Based on this plan, it is unlikely that there will be accidental spills of chemicals which could contaminate soil.

• Only small quantities of fuel are used for vehicles and equipment and therefore if an accidental spill does occur it would involve a small amount of fuel.

Negligible

• Rock spoil stocked along the ROW may erode and has a visual impact

• Whenever possible, rock spoil will be re-used as fill and aggregate for concrete;

• Rock spoil will be levelled along ROW to avoid stock piling

• Based on these measures, the residual impact of rock spoil is negligible

Negligible

• Improper solid waste management could result in soil contamination.

• Section 7.0 Environmental Management Plan provides commitments for a Waste Management Plan describing the collection, sorting, storage and disposal of various waste generated by the pipeline construction and operation.

• Based on this plan, the waste will be stored in designated landfill area or incinerated.

Negligible

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• Soil erosion due to the fact that ROW might become a preferred pathway for rainwater run-off.

• Sand dune displacement (KP 0 to KP 66 in the sand desert) under wind action may uncover the pipeline and affect the pipe integrity

• During operations, the pipeline will be inspected from the maintenance access roads and any sign of soil erosion and sand dune displacement will be repaired.

• Regular inspection of the pipeline route and maintenance will ensure that soil erosion is generally not discernible along the pipeline route. In addition the soil present along the majority of the pipeline route is sand and rock and these soil types are not vulnerable to erosion.

Negligible

• Potential soil contamination from accidental spills from maintenance vehicles.

• Develop and implement spill management plan (See Section 7.0) and avoid refuelling and lubrication in sensitive areas.

• Based on this plan it is unlikely that there will be accidental spills of chemicals which could contaminate soil.

• Only small quantities of fuel are used for maintenance vehicles and therefore if an accidental spill does occur it would involve a small amount of fuel.

Negligible

Operation

• Maintenance

• Control / Inspection

• Seismic activity which may affect the pipeline integrity

• Seismic data collected for the pipeline route and region and incorporated into the design.

• The pipeline is designed to sustain known seismic activity

• No known active faults will be crossed and no faults are located near the Project area therefore the likelihood of seismic activity having an impact is extremely low.

Negligible

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Decommissioning

• Soil erosion along pipeline ROW including access roads

• Restoration measures will be assessed and the appropriate local authorities consulted. As necessary, maintenance access roads will be closed, cuts backfilled and slope protection measures implemented.

Based on these measures, it is expected that no discernible features of soil erosion will be present along the pipeline route after decommissioning.

Negligible

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5.1.1.2. Surface Water and groundwater

Overview: Surface water The Transfer Line and the majority of the Main Line will be laid in desert regions with little or no encountered surface water. The pipeline route could have an impact on surface water during construction, through the disturbance of existing water collecting systems. Impacts are also possible during operation through scouring due to large floods in wadis.

Small isolated man-made ponds which are used to collect water from rainfall were observed in the Plateau area and will be avoided by the pipeline (Figure 5.3). In addition, irrigation systems (Ghayls) and springs are likely to be present in some areas of the pipeline route. Although no irrigation systems were observed during the baseline surveys (1997 and 2005), they could be present in the area of Wadi Jirdan (KP 85 to KP 122), foothills of access to the Plateau (KP 122 to KP 132) and Wadi Salmoon (KP 205 to KP 210). They are also present in the lower section of the coastal plain (KP 275 to KP 314) (Figure 5.4) where orchards and palm tree plantations exist on the lower terraces. In general, these irrigation systems comprise water collection, conveyance and storage systems and they are used for both irrigation and domestic water supplies.

The pipeline will be located upstream of the Wadi Jirdan catchment area (small ponds or reservoirs existing at the foot of the plateau) and therefore any accidental spill from machinery could have an impact on the water quality in these reservoirs. The tribal communities in the Wadi catchment areas may use the water of these reservoirs.

Overview: Groundwater The potential impacts on groundwater sources include depletion of the groundwater resources for construction water requirements and contamination of groundwater due to accidental chemical spills during construction and operation.

Groundwater sources along the pipeline include:

• The Mukalla Sandstone highly productive deep aquifer. In the wadis, this aquifer is probably in hydraulic connection with the upper alluvial deposit, but as it is more than 100m deep, it has a low vulnerability. It is exploited by modern drilled wells. On the Plateau, the aquifer is deeper and no water wells were identified in this area.

• The coastal plain has minor groundwater resources. The aquifer of Wadi Rafad near KP 310 (see Figure 4-6 in Section 4.0) may yield small springs, however it is far from the route adopted which avoids the areas of springs and wells. Shallow hand dug wells identified in 1997 and September 2005 surveys will be avoided.

The Project water requirements during construction include:

• Between 500 to 800 m3 /day of water will be needed for workers over a period of two years during pipeline construction (i.e. up to 292 000 m3 per year). This volume is based on a work force during construction of between 1000 to 1600 workers and 500 litres per person per day.

• Approximately 44 000 m3 of water will be used for the hydrostatic testing of the pipelines. At this stage, the contractor option has not been finalized, water could be either groundwater or seawater.

ROUTE ALTERNATIVE

Title

Location

Client


SMALL POND ON THE PLATEAU AT KP 178AND ROUTE ALTERNATIVE

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Ref.

No barscale

LYO

February 2006

JLL

43683552 Figure 5-3

Format

A4

ADOPTED ROUTE

GROWING VEGETATIONCONNECTED TOWET AREAS

ROCKY HILL

AREA WITH WELLS

Title

Location

Client


BALHAF APPROACH CONSTRAINTSAND ALTERNATIVE ROUTE

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Ref.

No barscale

LYO

February 2006

JLL

43683552 Figure 5-4

Format

A4

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At the wadi crossings, the average depth to groundwater is anticipated to be approximately 10 meters but may range between 2 and 25 meters. The pipeline construction phase could have an impact on the shallow aquifer present in the alluvium of the lower Wadi Jirdan course (see Figure 4-5 in Section 4.0).

The pipeline will transport gas and thus is unlikely to affect aquifers during operation. The aquifers are below the pipeline depth, and flows will not be affected or modified by the pipe.

Table 5.2 presents the potential impacts associated with surface waters and groundwater from the construction, operation and decommissioning phases of the Project along with the mitigation measures and the residual impacts.

Conclusion The pipeline route has been selected to avoid zones with surface water and groundwater, such as the main wadis and the coastal plain shallow wells. The use of the deep Mukalla aquifer will be of a temporary nature and strictly minimised and controlled according to the country practices and regulations to avoid any depletion. Strict adherence to the spill and hazardous chemical management plans will reduce the likelihood of accidental spills which could contaminate surface water and groundwater.

In September 2005, a terrestrial survey was carried out along the pipeline route, which confirmed the environmental conditions encountered during the 1997 survey.

Therefore, the residual impact of the pipelines on water resources is considered to be negligible.

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Table 5.2: Potential environmental impacts, mitigation measures and residual impact significance of pipelines on surface water and groundwater

Activity Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures Residual Impacts Residual Impact

Significance

• Groundwater resource depletion (due to water needs for construction camp and hydrostatic testing of pipeline).

• In order to conserve water, the hydrostatic testing program is designed to re-use the same test water in consecutive test sections.

• YLNG will analyze any possibility to re-use wastewater to minimize fresh water supply. Potential uses include dust suppression, gardening or construction of green belts against desertification. In any case, effluents will be tested, before any re-use of water is allowed.

• The volume of groundwater required for construction camps and hydrostatic testing is approximately 0.63 Mm3 over the 2 year construction period. The Mukalla aquifer has total storage of approximately 10 000 000 Mm3 and a recharge of 500 Mm3 per year therefore the volume of groundwater required for the Project represents an insignificant volume compared to the volume available.

Negligible Construction




• Trenching

• Pipe laying



• Pipeline hydrotesting

• Waste generation • Modification of the flow in existing irrigation systems (Ghayls).

• No Irrigation systems were encountered during the 1997 and September 2005 surveys. If irrigation channels are encountered construction techniques will ensure that the flow in the channels is restored

• The pipeline route avoids the coastal plain shallow groundwater wells.

• There is a low likelihood of encountering irrigation channels during construction.

Negligible

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Significance

• Potential damage to aquifer structures as a result of using explosives during pipeline construction.

• Explosive will be used on the plateau and onshore at Balhaf where no aquifer is present at shallow depth. No damage is expected

• No impact is expected from blasting

Negligible

• Sedimentation of wadi beds during construction.

• Modification of the normal run-off pathway from the edge of cliffs could cause turbidity and sedimentation in the small ponds or reservoirs existing at the foot of the plateau with potential impacts on the main activities around those sources of water (agriculture and farming).

• No borrow material will be allowed in wadi beds to prevent sedimentation.

• The pipeline route in the plateau area was chosen because it involves less cut and fill and therefore changes to run off pathways will be minimized.

• Pipeline route selection, construction techniques and careful management of borrow material will prevent the sedimentation of ponds and wadi beds.

Negligible

• Potential contamination of surface water and groundwater from discharge of wastewater to the environment or accidental spills from vehicles and heavy equipment.

• Improper solid waste management could result in surface water or groundwater contamination.

• Potential groundwater contamination from spills from vehicles and heavy equipment (potential impact is greater at wadi crossings due to the

• Chemicals used in hydrostatic tests will be selected for their effectiveness, low toxicity, and biodegradability.

• Develop and implement hazardous chemical management plan (See Section 7.0) and avoid refuelling and lubrication in sensitive areas.

• Wastewater generated from the hydrostatic testing and commissioning will be collected, analyzed, and disposed of in an environmentally responsible

• Based on these measures and plan it is unlikely that there will be accidental spills of chemicals which could contaminate surface water or groundwater.


Negligible

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Significance

shallow depth of groundwater at these crossings).

manner in compliance with the standards given in Table 3-4 in Section 3.0 and according to the Wastewater Management Plan (Section 7.0).

• Modification of the normal run-off pathway from the edge of cliffs could cause turbidity and sedimentation in the small ponds or reservoirs existing at the foot of the plateau with potential impacts on the main activities around those sources of water (agriculture and farming).

• The pipeline route was selected to avoid the water collection systems and areas important to the local population.

• Regular inspection of the pipeline route and remediation measures implemented if sedimentation of ponds is observed.

• Due to the selected pipeline route and the construction techniques it is unlikely that sedimentation will occur during the operation of the pipeline.

Negligible Operation

• Maintenance


• Scour could occur in wadi alluvial beds during high intensity flow events. Lower reaches of Wadi Jirdan (KP 100 to 120, Wadi Salmun valley (approximately KP 205 to 210) and Wadi Rafad near KP 310 could be affected.

• In order to mitigate scour impacts in wadis, scour depths will be established and the pipeline will be installed below these depths. The pipeline will be secured with anchor blocks or concrete coating.

• Regular inspection of the pipeline route will ensure that if scour does occur, remediation measures will be implemented rapidly.

• Based on these measures, scour is very unlikely to occur.

Negligible

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Significance

• Potential groundwater contamination from spills from vehicles and heavy equipment used during maintenance.

• Develop and implement hazardous chemical management plan (See Section 7.0) and avoid refuelling and lubrication in sensitive areas.

• Based on this plan it is unlikely that there will be accidental spills of chemicals which could contaminate surface water and groundwater.


Negligible

Decommissioning

• Scour could occur in wadi alluvial beds during high intensity flow events. Lower reaches of Wadi Jirdan (KP 100 to 120, Wadi Salmun valley (approximately KP 205 to 210) and Wadi Rafad near KP 310 could be affected.

• Pipe sections in wadi areas will be removed. The other sections of the pipe will be left in place, appropriately sealed and identified.

• The pipe sections in the wadis will be removed and therefore there will not be any scour in the wadi alluvial beds caused by the pipeline.

Negligible

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5.1.2. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES

Overview Most of the sensitive areas that were identified during the baseline survey (WCI, 1997) were avoided by the pipeline routes: the mountainous part of Wadi Jirdan and all of Wadi Mahyid were avoided. The remaining sensitive points are in the desert near KP 60, in the desert part of Wadi Jirdan near KP 120, on the Plateau near KP 160, in Wadi Salmoon near KP 205 to 210 and on the coastal plain near KP 280.

Relatively dense vegetation is concentrated along wadis crossed by the pipeline route due to groundwater and intermittent surface water availability in the bottoms of the wadis. Large trees have been observed in the mountainous wadis, some of which are rare and endemic species. In the desert wadis, vegetation includes a savanna type community, including low density, widely-spaced shrubs and trees. Wildlife species, primarily including mammals, birds and reptiles, occur in largest numbers in the vegetated wadis since they are attracted by the presence of water.

Several sensitive species have been observed along the pipeline route. These species and their habitats could be disturbed during construction. The potential impact is most significant for plants, since, due to the temporary nature of the disturbance, the existing fauna can go away and return when the disturbance is over. Indirect impacts on fauna may occur due to loss of small areas of habitat, however, the impact will be greater on plants, in particular those most sensitive, as they may be permanently removed from sections of the pipeline route.

Remaining areas with sensitive species are the access (KP 132 to KP 134) and exit of the Plateau (KP 201 to KP 205), because in those areas both Dracaena serrulata and Livistonia carinensis were observed during the terrestrial baseline study (WCI, 1997).

The effects of clearing are likely to be much greater in areas of potential soil erosion, thus increasing desertification. Forest decline is a significant concern in Yemen. The Environment Protection Law (EPL) prohibits any activity which affects the quantity and quality of the vegetation in any area causing desertification.

Table 5.3 presents the potential impacts associated with biological resources from the construction, operation and decommissioning phases of the Project along with the mitigation measures and the residual impacts.

Conclusion The pipeline route was selected to avoid sensitive areas (Wadi Jirdan, Wadi Salmoon and Wadi Mahyid). Most of the pipeline route is in desert regions and therefore there is little vegetation. In September 2005, a terrestrial survey was carried out along the pipeline route, which confirmed the environmental conditions encountered during the 1997 survey. It is expected that some vegetation will be cleared at the wadi crossings during pipeline construction and this may cause a disturbance to wildlife. The ROW width will be limited in areas were vegetation have been observed.

During construction Environmental Management Plans will be implemented to ensure that sensitive species are protected or relocated if possible considering the pipeline ROW layout.

Therefore the residual impact of the pipelines on biological resources is considered to be minor.

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Table 5.3: Potential environmental impacts, mitigation measures and residual impact significance of pipelines on biological resources


Significance

• Clearing and long-term loss of vegetation and wildlife habitat

• Short-term disturbance of sensitive wildlife species and habitats

• Desertification or advance of sand dunes could occur due to the removal or disturbance of sand fixing vegetation downgradient of the pipeline (KP 0 to KP 66). Construction of the pipeline could alter the groundwater circulation in some areas and hence the availability of water to this type of vegetation. Vegetation die-off or removal could accelerate the advance of sand dunes.

• The pipeline route was selected to avoid sensitive areas (Wadi Jirdan, Wadi Salmoon and Wadi Mahyid)

• ROW width will be approximately 17 m and shall be minimised in sensitive areas.

• During construction the Environmental Management Plans will be implemented to ensure that sensitive species are protected or relocated if possible considering the construction layout.

• Local revegetation of sensitive disturbed areas will be evaluated case by case.

• The residual impact has been scaled (see Table 1.2 in Section 1.2.5) on the assumption that the magnitude of the impact is low due to the small area potentially impacted by the pipeline ROW once the mitigation measures are in place and the value of the flora is of a national importance.

Minor Construction




• Trenching

• Pipe laying



• Waste management

• Improper waste management could result in impact to the flora and fauna

• A Waste Management Plan will be developed for construction (See Section 7.0).

• Based on this plan, the residual impact of waste disposal on biological resources is negligible.

Negligible

Operation

• Maintenance


• ROW of the pipeline will allow the access of people to remote areas. The indirect impacts could include cutting/collecting of firewood and increasing hunting and grazing thereby

• During operation, regular inspections of pipeline ROW to ensure that the ROW is not being used by third parties.

• The pipeline is located in an isolated, desert region and therefore based on the regular inspections, it is unlikely that third parties will travel to this area and cause

Negligible

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Significance

causing damage and disturbance to flora and fauna.

damage and disturbance to flora and fauna.


• Improper waste management could result in impact to the flora and fauna

• Pipeline operation will generate small amount of waste, to be handled at both ends of the pipeline (Balhaf and CPU-KPU) where waste disposal facilities are present.

• These waste will be under the Waste Management Plan of Balhaf operation

• Based on this plan, the residual impact of waste disposal on biological resources is negligible.

Negligible

Decommissioning

• Vegetation may not grow if top soil was removed

• Top soil restored on ROW and ROW will be reinstated

• The pipeline is located in a desert region and therefore there is little vegetation. After decommissioning, the vegetation will naturally repopulate the pipeline ROW due to the fact that the access road will no longer be maintained.

Negligible

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5.1.3. AIR QUALITY

5.1.3.1. Pipeline Construction

Overview Air quality impacts from the Main Line and Transfer Line will consist of short-term transitory emissions of air pollutants during construction. These impacts have been evaluated by estimating air pollutant emissions (see Section 3.0).

Air quality impacts during pipeline construction may be caused by the generation of particulate matter (PM) from earthmoving activities. These emissions are referred to as fugitive dust. Combustion contaminants (VOCs, NOx, and SOx) will also be emitted from the exhaust of heavy equipment used for construction. These construction emissions will be of a temporary and transient nature and are not expected to have any noticeable adverse impacts on air quality, because the pipelines are located mostly in desert region.

Mitigation measures Since impacts to air quality during construction of the pipeline are anticipated to be negligible, no specific mitigation measures are required. This assessment is based on up to date construction techniques and it is assumed that the following measures will be implemented during construction:

• The construction contractor will be required to provide equipment that has well maintained engines;

• To the extent possible, unpaved roads will be wetted in sensitive area (such as in the vicinity of villages and agricultural areas) to minimize dust emissions;

• Construction activities will be confined to the active construction area whenever possible, so that the disturbed area shall be minimized.

Residual impact significance and ranking Due to the temporary character of the emissions and the good air dispersion existing in the study area, the emissions from construction activities will be well dispersed and will not exceed project air quality criteria. Therefore the residual impact of the pipeline construction on air quality is considered negligible.

5.1.3.2. Pipeline Operation

Overview There is no air quality impact during routine operations, since there are no noise-generating facilities along the pipeline. The compressor station that was envisioned in earlier stages is no longer planned for this phase of the YLNG Project.

Mitigation Measures Since there are no impacts to air quality during operation of the pipeline, no specific mitigation measures are required.

Residual impact significance and ranking The residual impact of the pipeline operation on air quality is considered negligible.

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5.1.4. AMBIENT NOISE LEVEL

5.1.4.1. Pipeline Construction

Overview The pipeline is a linear project, and therefore, the Project noise impacts are primarily analyzed on the basis of project-related activity such as trenching and pipe laying, which are linear activities whose zone of potential noise impacts is continuously moving during the project’s construction phase.

Construction phase noise would generally result from the use of motorized equipment. Other short-term impacts from construction noise could result from construction traffic, including materials delivery, and from the camps which will house the construction workers. Noise from blasting will also occur during the construction of certain sections of the pipeline. Noise impacts would be most noticeable at residences and villages in the vicinity of project construction locations. Noise levels would vary depending on the type of equipment used, how it is operated and how well it is maintained. Standard excavation and installation equipment, such as graders, backhoes, loaders, side-boom tractors, welders, and trucks would be used for construction of most project facilities.

The noise levels used for analysis of the pipeline construction impacts were those developed in a similar study, in which noise levels generated by installation of a buried 12-foot (4 m) diameter reinforced concrete pipe were measured (Chambers Group, 1992 for the Metropolitan Water District, 1993). This study found that noise associated with pipeline construction did not exceed a Leq of 75 dBA at a distance of 27 m from the trench centerline. Using this noise level and distance as a reference, the additional distance from the noise source required to reduce the noise level to an Ldn level of 55 dBA or less was calculated. This distance is approximately 280 m, assuming that the noise from construction takes place primarily during daytime hours (i.e., between the hours of 07:00 and 20:00) and that noise from the worker camps does not exceed 45 dBA at this distance between the hours of 21:00 and 06:00. The pipe diameter associated with the project and alternatives is considerably smaller than that of the study; thus, noise levels from construction equipment may be slightly lower than indicated above.

The nearest permanent or semi-permanent residences are a distance of approximately 2 km from the pipeline alignment. At this distance, the noise from construction activities would be approximately 37 dBA Ldn, 2 decibels higher than the estimated ambient noise levels of approximately 35 dBA Ldn, and much lower than World Bank most sensitive noise criteria (55 dBA). Thus, this would not be a significant increase in noise levels.

Special Construction Impacts: Blasting On the Plateau, hard dolomitic limestone will require blasting (KP 134 to KP 202). For excavation requiring blasting, the magnitude of noise impacts would depend on the type of material being excavated, the types of explosives used, the depth of the explosive charge and the proximity to noise-sensitive receptors. Blasting of subsurface formations would not typically cause a significant noise disturbance. Shallow subsurface blasting is more likely to generate high, but very short-duration noise levels. Such blasting noise would not produce levels in excess of the noise standards. Nonetheless, it could result in “startle effects” to nearby inhabitants and wildlife, unless mitigated.

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Main impacts related to blasting include noise, vibration and potential structural damages in near buildings or structures.

Offsite Noise Impacts Off-site noise will be generated by the project. Outside of the immediate construction zone, project construction noise levels would not be considered loud enough to cause potential impact of hearing loss and no other persons would be exposed to hazardous or dangerous noise levels. Noise from spoils transport trucks and delivery trucks would potentially increase local highway traffic noise.

Mitigation Measures The following mitigation measures will be implemented:

• Prior to blasting, any sensitive receptor will be informed and an exclusion zone will be established for each blasting events. This would preclude hearing damage caused by blasting.

• Construction equipment will be well maintained to ensure that noise from equipment is minimized.

• Construction-related vehicles should stay within local speed limits, and comply with all mitigation measures.

Residual Impact Significance During pipeline construction, the construction noise will be temporary and it will be generally close to ambient noise levels at sensitive receptors. There are very few sensitive receptors in the area of the pipeline. It is assumed that the increase in ambient noise (< 3dBA) will not be perceptible by majority of people. Also, the short-term nature of construction noise and its movement along the linear project will not cause any long-term noise impacts to the environment. Blasting during construction (mainly shallow subsurface blasting) and other off-site noise could generate some noise impacts.

The residual impact significance of noise from pipeline construction on sensitive receptors is considered negligible to minor (blasting) and temporary.

5.1.4.2. Pipeline Operation

Overview Normal operation of the pipeline will have no noise impact on surrounding land uses, since the pipeline would be buried and would not generate noise. Periodic repair and temporary maintenance activities along the ROW would not result in significant noise effects on surrounding land uses if the maintenance vehicles and equipment are equipped with functional noise control features provided by the manufacturer as original equipment (i.e. properly operating mufflers, silencers, shrouds, covers, etc.).

There is no additional source of noise during pipeline operation, since there is no compressor station.

Mitigation Measures No mitigation measures are necessary for the pipeline operation.

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Residual Impacts and significance During pipeline operation, the pipeline itself will be buried and is not expected to generate noise. The residual impact significance of noise from pipeline operations on sensitive receptors is considered negligible.

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5.2. BALHAF LNG PLANT : ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES

5.2.1. SOIL, WATER AND GROUNDWATER RESOURCES

5.2.1.1. Soil and surface water

Overview Based on the geology (basalt rock) at the LNG plant site and the fact that no volcanoes are affected by the plant layout, impacts on geology are considered to be negligible.

Disturbance of surface water in the small wadi crossed during construction of the plant and the flooding area located along the beach would constitute a negligible impact. The impact, if any, will be temporary, since adequate construction techniques have been proposed to prevent any disturbance. In addition, there is no evidence of any interruption of normal drainage due to the construction of the air strip. The road, which runs parallel to the air strip, currently acts as a dam and negligible impacts of the flooding events in the wadi are expected downstream of the road.

Conclusion The soil is basalt rock and there is no surface water at the Balhaf site. Therefore, the residual impact of the LNG plant on soil and surface water is considered to be negligible.

5.2.1.2. Groundwater

Overview There is no groundwater available at Balhaf, and the nearest groundwater source is from the deep aquifer located at the mountains about 100 km northwest.

The demand for potable water for the workers during construction and operation at the Balhaf plant would be a significant issue. The total estimated amount of freshwater required per employee per day is 500 litres. During construction and operation of the LNG plant, there will be the following phases:

• Site preparation for seven months. The construction camp will host up to a maximum of 1,000 people. The estimated amount of water required is up to 500 m3 /day. Water will be brought by tanker trucks from a well in the Bir Ali area or a new well to be drilled. The management of the well will be done according to the current regulation on aquifer uses.

• The Main camp for the LNG construction. Taking into account the estimated work force during construction (7,000 to 10,000 workers), the estimated amount of water required is 3,500 to 5,000 m3 /day. Water will be produced by a desalination plant at the camp.

• During operation the estimates have been made considering a work force of 350 to 500 people, with an estimated amount of water required ranging between 175 and 250 m3/day. Water will be supplied from the LNG plant desalination plant.

The hydrostatic testing of the tanks will also require use of sea water. The estimated demand is approximately 80,000 m3. Other equipment will be hydrotested using desalinized water.

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Conclusion Demand for potable water during construction and operation is not considered a significant impact since it has been assumed that the water will be obtained from the desalinization plant located in Balhaf, after a short period of pioneer camp that will use water supplied from tanker trucks

Therefore, the residual impact of the LNG plant on groundwater is considered to be negligible.

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Table 5.4: Potential environmental impacts, mitigation measures and residual impact significance of LNG Plant on soil, surface water and groundwater


Significance

• grading for road and plant layout may modify the natural rock surface and cause soil erosion

• Rock spoil may erode and has a visual impact.

• Limit area of grading to the facility and access roads

• Re-use spoil material as fill and concrete aggregate and as a construction material for the site preparation.

• The proposed construction techniques will minimize soil erosion to levels considered not discernible (ie. no gullies or rills).

Negligible

• Potential soil, surface water or groundwater contamination from accidental spills from vehicles and heavy equipment.

• Develop and implement hazardous chemical management plan (See Section 7.0) and avoid refueling and lubrication in sensitive areas.

• Based on this plan spills are very unlikely to occur.

• In the case where a chemical spill would occur, the procedures in place would ensure that the spill is cleaned up quickly and with minimal impact on the environment.

Negligible

• Improper solid waste management could result in soil, surface water or groundwater contamination.

• Section 7.0 Environmental Management Plan provides a Waste Management Plan describing the collection, sorting, storage and disposal of wastes generated by construction and operation activities.

• Based on this plan, the impact on the environment will be negligible.

Negligible

Construction


• Plant construction

• Worker construction camp

• Permanent camp

• Air strip and access road

• Hydrostatic testing of tanks and lines of the plant


• Groundwater resource depletion (due to water needs for construction camp and hydrostatic testing of tanks and lines of the plant).

• Re-use of water to minimize fresh water supply. Water could be re-used for other purposes at Balhaf (i.e. gardening, dust suppression, etc)

• Use of sea water will prevent impact on groundwater resource depletion

• No damage from use of

Negligible

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Significance

• disturbance of surface water in the small wadi crossed during construction of the plant.

• Potential damage to aquifer structures as a result of using explosives for site preparation.

• Sea water will be used for hydrostatic testing of tanks and desalinized sea water will be used for construction camp water needs and hydrotesting of other equipment. A desalinization plant will be installed to meet the fresh water needs of the construction camp.

explosive due to absence of groundwater at the site.

• Potential soil, surface water or groundwater contamination from accidental spills from vehicles and heavy equipment.

• Develop and implement hazardous chemical management plan (See Section 7.0) and avoid refueling and lubrication in sensitive areas.

• Based on this plan, spills are very unlikely to occur

• In the case where a chemical spill does occur, the procedures in place will ensure that the spill is cleaned up quickly and with negligible impact on the environment.

Negligible

• Groundwater resource depletion (due to water needs for LNG plant and permanent camp).

• The design of the LNG plant includes provision for a desalination plant during operation of the LNG plant that will also supply fresh water to the permanent camp

• Use of sea water will prevent impact on groundwater resource depletion

Negligible

Operation

• Storage and handling of chemicals

• Maintenance operation


• Improper solid waste management could result in potential soil, surface water or groundwater contamination.

• Section 7.0 Environmental Management Plan provides a Waste Management Plan describing the collection, sorting, storage and disposal of wastes generated by construction and operation activities.

• Based on this plan, waste will be managed appropriately with negligible impact on the environment

Negligible

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Significance

Decommissioning

• Soil erosion due to dismantling and removal of the plant equipment

• Restoration measures will be assessed and the appropriate local authorities consulted.

• Based on these measures, It is expected that no discernable features of soil erosion will be observed in the plant area after decommissioning.

Negligible

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5.2.2. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES

5.2.2.1. Terrestrial Fauna and Flora

Overview The LNG plant is mainly located in bare soil and basalt rock. These areas have no natural vegetation cover. The preferred campsite is also located in a bare soil area. The airstrip is the only area which supports some natural vegetation dominated by dwarf-shrub plants such Limonium cylindrifolium, Odissea mucronata and Salvadora persica. The plants will be removed; however, due to the relative significance of such species, this is considered a minor impact. There is no forest in the potentially disturbance area, with the only exception of two isolated trees (Prosopis juliflora) near Balhaf (Figure 5-5). Thus negligible impact will be produced on this important natural resource for Yemen.

During LNG plant construction, there is the potential for disturbance of one small area located at the east of the plant site, where a sensitive species Euphorbia riebeckii is present. That species is an endemic species, fairly common throughout the coastal area of Southern Yemen.

Existing fauna will be affected during construction of the LNG plant. Sensitive fauna species which may potentially occur in the Balhaf area include several bird species (Ardeotis arabs and Larus leucophthalmus) and mammal species (i.e. Hyaena hyaena). These species may be disturbed during the construction period.

Mitigation Measures The recommended mitigations measures to reduce the impact on the flora and fauna at the Balhaf site are:

• During construction the Environmental Manager will implement the ESMS and ensure that sensitive species are protected or relocated if possible considering the construction layout.

• Minimize construction staging sizes and protect sensitive species identified

• Restore and revegetate disturbed areas whenever possible

• Develop and implement a project Worker Environmental Training Program.

In order to reduce potential impact on sensitive Fauna species it is recommended to adhere to the instructions provided in the Environmental and Social Management System (Section 7.0) and in particular in the worker training program.

Residual Impact and significance No significant vegetation exists in the Balhaf area and its current condition was found to be degraded (September 2005 survey). Since there are no other additional sources of food (i.e. urbanized areas), fauna is very scarce in the area. Animals are represented mainly by transient or high mobility animals (i.e. birds). These will be disturbed during the construction period, and may return after cessation of activities. Significance of the impact is considered minor since the animal population is very low.

Therefore residual impact significance of the LNG plant on terrestrial fauna and flora is considered Minor.

BALHAF - TERRESTRIAL SENSITIVITY MAP

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG


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Format

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ANCIENT BUILDINGS

CEMETARY

NORTH TOWER

SOUTH TOWER

NEOLITHIC SETTLEMENTS

1

2

3

4

5

FLORAGROUP OF WELL DEVELOPED PROSOPIS JULIFLORA(POOR CONDITION, Sept 2005)

ARCHAEOLOGY

LEGEND

GEOLOGY

VOLCANOES

BASALT FLOW

MARINE TERRACE (SAND)

V

B

M

0

SCALE

100 20050 150 250 m

N

1 2

3

4

5

V

B

M

B

V

V

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5.2.2.2. Intertidal and marine ecosystems Table 5.6 presents the potential impacts, mitigation measures, residual impacts and residual impact significance of construction and operation activities of the Balhaf LNG plant on marine and intertidal ecosystems. The following paragraphs summarize the main potential impacts and the residual impacts on these ecosystems.

LNG Plant construction

Overview The intertidal ecosystems include species living on the rocky shores and are characterized as a community with very limited species diversity. The marine ecosystems include the coral reefs, the marine life, sea water quality in the eastern and western parts of the rock cape (Figure 5-6).

The main potential impacts on intertidal and marine ecosystems during construction activities include a small area of corals during the coastline rock berm works, jetty and wharf construction and harbour dredging although mitigation measures are being taken to minimise this impact. Other potential impacts include an increase of turbidity in sea water due to the dredging activities. Mitigation measures include construction methods that will minimize turbidity in the sea water and minimize direct impacts on the corals. These measures are currently being studied. The dredging study (Latteux, B. July 2005), showed that disposal had no impact at water depth greater than 70 m. Following discussions with the MAA, YLNG is committed to disposal at depth of approximately150 m.

The construction of the LNG plant at the western part of Balhaf will involve shore berm works made of rock blocks over a length of approximately 900 m, as presented in Table 5-5.

TABLE 5-5 LOCALIZATION OF PROJECTED COASTAL ROCK BERM WORKS

Area Total Length (m)

Marine Habitats

Liquid Burner 200 Rocky Shore/Sandy Beach

Main Flare 150 Rocky Shore

Water Intake 150 Rocky Shore

Storage Tanks 150 Rocky Shore

Wharf 250 Internal Reef Side/ Rocky Shore

Total shore berm length to be

constructed (m)

900

The construction of the shoreline berms, jetty and wharf will involve the destruction of some corals along the western part of the Balhaf cape.

100 m

WATER

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG


BALHAF - MARINE SENSITIVITY MAP

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The destruction of these corals is a long term impact due to the fact that coral reefs take a long time to re-establish (growth of a few centimetres/year). Two small areas of high sensitivity corals (Porites and/or branched Acropora reef) will be destroyed at the wharf location on the western part of the cape.

Other potential impacts to corals on the eastern side of the Balhaf cape include exposure to turbidity and sediment deposition due to construction of the water outfall.

Conclusion Mitigation measures include careful construction of the outfall pipeline; construction methods that will minimize the turbidity in the seawater are currently being evaluated. The dredged material will be disposed of offshore in a specific deep location. Studies are currently being undertaken to determine the appropriate site. However, the material will be disposed of at least 1400 m off the coast in water depths of greater than 70 m. The disturbance of high sensitivity coral reefs in the eastern part of the Balhaf cape was minimized by the position of the outfall (path located in between two coral reefs) and construction techniques will minimize turbidity (floating crane and barge). The spread of a turbidity plume during dredging activities will be minimised by the construction of the wharf before the majority of dredging operations are undertaken and by construction methods that will minimize impacts on the corals. These measures are currently being studied.

The destruction of some sensitive corals on the western part of the Balhaf cape relative to the overall coastal length to Burum classifies (see Table 1.2) the residual impact of construction on intertidal and marine ecosystems as moderate.

LNG plant operation

Overview The main potential impacts on the intertidal and marine ecosystems during operation of the LNG plant and facilities include modifications in the water currents west of Balhaf due to the presence of harbor and jetty and an increase in sea water temperature due to discharge of cooling water on the east side of the cape. The temperature of water at the discharge point is estimated to be a maximum of 10 °C above the surrounding seawater temperature and the discharge flow rate was designed for 60,000 m3/h. The increase in water temperature could impact several marine organisms, depending on the discharging conditions. Potential impacts include disturbance of the coral reef in the eastern area of Balhaf (see Figure 5-6).

The potential impact of thermal discharge on the sea water temperature around the discharge point was evaluated by several mathematical models (SOGREAH 1996, 1997, 2001, 2005). Appendix 5.2 presents the results of the recent 2005 modeling.

Other potential impacts include a change in sedimentation process due to a modification in currents from construction of jetty and the port in the western part of Balhaf.

Conclusion The new design of the water outfall for cooling water, and other wastewater discharges has been selected to ensure that there is a minimum impact on the coral reefs on the eastern part of the Balhaf cape due to the temperature of the discharge and biocides concentration. Modeling studies undertaken by SOGREAH have shown that the maximum temperature increase (above ambient temperature) at the coral reefs would be 0.75°C for a very short period of time and under specific current conditions (Figure 5.7).

MAXIMUM TEMPERATURE AT THE SEA SURFACE

MAXIMUM TEMPERATURE

1 m ABOVE THE SEABED

TEMPERATURE (°C)3332.53231.53130.7530.5030.4030.3030.2030.1030

LEGEND

Coral reefs

Model conditions :Ambient water temperature = 30°C, Summer pure tide regimeIncrease of temperature at outfall = +7.8°CWater discharge flow rate : 68 000 m³/h

Source : Sogreah report : Complementary3D Model study on thermal distribution, September 2005

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG


MAXIMUM TEMPERATURE AT THE SEA SURFACE AND 1 METER ABOVE THE SEABED

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This is below the 1° C long term temperature increase which is considered not to cause damage to corals. An update of the dispersion modeling study with the cooling water flow rate for the current design (60,000 m3/h) was completed in September 2005 (Appendix 5.2) and confirming the previous results.

Should a third LNG processing train be foreseen in the future, a reassessment of the ESIA would be carried out.

The modifications to the water currents on the western part of Balhaf due to the presence of the wharf, may have an impact on sedimentation processes and cause an increase in turbidity. These changes may have a long term impact on the formation of corals and may affect the balance of existing intertidal and marine communities. The wharf design is still under assessment to maintain currents circulation. A long term monitoring program of the marine ecosystem will be initiated during the operational phase (See Section 7.0).

A coral survey and sea turtle survey were carried out early September 2005. The objective of these surveys was to verify previous surveys results and have a more detailed understanding of the part that the corals play in the marine ecosystem. There is no evidence of turtle nesting activity in the direct vicinity of the Balhaf plant. Sea turtles were observed in the sea during the coastal diving survey (Creocean) conducted in September 2005, but the survey did not find evidence of turtle eggs on the shores of the Balhaf plant area which are rocky and thus inappropriate for nesting. During these surveys, the coral reefs have been confirmed as a nursery for commercial fish.

Representatives from various Yemeni Authorities took part in these surveys.

The residual impact of the LNG plant operations on the marine and intertidal ecosystems is considered negligible.

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Table 5.6: Potential environmental impacts, mitigation measures and residual impact significance of LNG Plant on intertidal and marine ecosystems


Significance

LNG Plant Construction • Construction of

shoreline protection systems

• Discharge of hydrotest water from tanks

• Construction of the wharf

• Construction of the jetty

• Dredging in the vicinity of the wharf

• Sea water intake pipeline (dredging and construction)

• Sea water outfall pipeline (dredging and construction)

• Increase in turbidity of sea water due to dredging activities

• Potential impact of sediment deposition on coral reefs due to the transport of dredged materials by currents from its offshore disposal area.

• Dredging will be minimised. • Dredging and excavation

materials will be disposed of offshore at a water depth of 150 m to ensure a minimum environmental impact.

• Construction methods to minimize the turbidity generated are currently being evaluated.

• Silt curtains will be used to protect sensitive corals.

The coral reefs will not be affected by sediment deposition at this minimum distance and water depth (see Figure 5-8). The seabed is characterized as sandy and also slopes gently so it is a suitable location. The currents are not exactly known at this location but the synthesis and analysis of all obtained current data have allowed a fairly accurate prediction of the currents at the disposal site. The time of disposal will make little difference to the dispersal since the currents are not significant and the tidal range is 1- 1.5 m. However, whenever feasible, the dredge material disposal will be done at the optimum time of the day in order to decrease turbidity.

Negligible

Dumping areaat 150 m water depth

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG


Source : Disposal Study for the MOF Dredged Materials,Bernard Latteux, July 2005

PROPOSED DREDGED MATERIALS DISPOSAL AREA AND EXTENT OF DEPOSITIONWITH THICKNESS GREATER THAN 1mm

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Significance

LNG Plant Construction (continued)

• Physical destruction of the intertidal ecosystems and the potential destruction and/or smothering of the coral to the west of the Balhaf Cape during construction of rock berms and wharf.

• Disturbance to coral reefs on the east side of the Balhaf cape during construction of the water outfall.

• Mortality of the coral and associated organisms during installation of the marine facilities in the western part of Balhaf will temporarily produce an increase in organic matter, and consequently, a population growth of the detritivorous organisms will occur in nearby rocky substrates.

• Disappearance of coral will also represent a net loss in the sea production since the coral reef is known as a refuge and nursery for several fish species.

• The water outfall on the eastern side of the cape is designed to avoid the corals on this part of the cape. The outfall pipe will be buried in the sea bed in a gap between the corals (see figure 5.6).

• On the West side of the Balhaf cape construction methods are being evaluated to minimize impact on the coral and also to limit to a minimum the extent of the impacted area.

• Loss of a small area of corals at the west areas of Balhaf is the main impact due to the construction of the marine facilities including during construction of rock berms and wharf on the west side of Balhaf and for the dredging for the wharf. This impact is considered to be long-term since re-establishing the coral would take a long time. There are two small areas of high sensitivity coral along the west part of the cape (see Figure 5-6). Figure 5-9 presents the locations with coral along the coast and in the Gulf of Aden. The potentially affected area of coral during the construction of the marine facilities represents a very small proportion of the length of coastline in the proposed Marine Protected Area between Balhaf and Burum. Thus according to Table 1.2 in Section 2: low magnitude impact on high value ecosystem classifies as moderate impact.

Moderate

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG


LOCATIONS WITH CORAL ALONG THE COAST AND IN THE GULF OF ADEN

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Significance

• Local destruction of species which adhere to the bottom (e.g. “barnacles” and/or “chitons”) in intertidal zones.

• No specific measure needed • The mobile organisms (e.g. crabs) will be able to take refuge in the unaffected nearby intertidal areas, towards Balhaf Cape. Fish populations disturbed by the disturbance of the coral reefs will move and look for refuge in other similar areas, towards the east side of Balhaf.

Negligible


• Potential disturbance to the two reported sea turtle species, the green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) and the Hawksbill sea turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata)

• No specific measure needed • The September 2005 survey did not find evidence of turtle eggs on the shores of the Balhaf area which are rocky and thus inappropriate for nesting.

Negligible

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Significance


• Potential contamination of sea water from discharge of hydrostatic test water from testing of tanks and lines of the plant (145 000 m3).

• Potential contamination of sea water from discharge of the construction camp wastewater.

• The water used for hydrostatic testing of tanks is sea water and it will be transferred from one piece of equipment to another to minimize the quantity of water to be discharged after the test. The hydrostatic test water contains limited anti-corrosion chemicals. Re-use of the pipeline hydrotesting water if possible depending on timing and quality

• The water used for hydrostatic testing of tanks is sea water

• Construction camp wastewater will be analysed regularly and checked for compliance with project standards (Table 3.4, Section 3).

• Discharge will not take place unless the quality of the water meets the required standards. The hydrostatic test water represents a small volume of water compared to the discharge of cooling water.

Negligible

LNG Plant Operation • Discharge of cooling

water and wastewater including brine through the sea water outfall

• Circulation of LNG carriers

• Localized increase in salinity of seawater due to discharge of brine from the desalinization plant to the water outfall. High salinity sea water could have an affect on marine life.

• Increase in the temperature of sea water from discharge of cooling water.

• Changes in hydrodynamic conditions and bleaching of the coral reef due to temperature increase.

• Cooling water discharge will be through an outfall to diffuse seawater temperature increases at depth. Detailed studies have been undertaken by Sogreah to determine the temperature increase at the coral reefs due to the discharge of cooling water at a temperature no more than 1°C greater than the sea water temperature. The outfall is located approximately 685 m from shore and at a depth of

• Because the discharge is in an area with significant hydrodynamism, the dispersion is expected to be good and therefore the associated impact on coral being much lower than having the discharge in an area with lower turbulence. The modeling studies (see Appendix 5.2) have shown that the maximum increase of temperature at the coral reefs would be 0.75°C for a short period of time and under specific current conditions. This is less than the

Negligible

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Significance

20 m. See figure 5.7. • The brine discharged at the

water outfall (550 m3/hr) will be diluted with the cooling water discharge(60 000m3/hr)

1°C long term temperature increase which is considered not to cause damage to corals.

• The discharge of brine makes up less than 1% of the overall discharge at the water oufall. Therefore, the brine will be well diluted on discharge at the outfall and will have a minimal impact on the marine environment.

• Potential contamination of sea water from wastewater discharges from the plant (cooling water, sanitary water, plant wastewater).

• Wastewater will be analysed regularly and checked for compliance with project standards (Table 3.4, Section 3). Sanitary wastewater will be treated in septic tanks before discharge via the outfall. The sanitary wastewater will respect the project standards.

• Based on these measures, the potential impact on sea water is negligible.

Negligible

• Contamination of sediments/ water by hydrocarbons and/or metallic elements due to the increase in nautical traffic.

• The principles of the MARPOL convention will be respected to prevent pollution of the sea by boats. However, it should be noted that currently, Yemen is not a signatory to the MARPOL convention..

• Based on these measures, the potential impact on sea water is negligible.

Negligible

LNG Plant Operation (continued)

• An increase in fine particle sedimentation will facilitate the population growth of species living in the rocky substrates, which are dominated by

• A long term monitoring program of the marine ecosystem will be initiated during the construction phase and then continued through

• The increase in fine particle sedimentation and the increase in turbidity due to the decrease in currents on the western part of the Balhaf cape will have a long term

Negligible

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Significance

LNG Plant Operation (continued)

detritivorous organisms (e.g. mollusk and worm “polychete”).

• Increase in turbidity due to a decrease in currents from presence of jetty and the port in the western part of Balhaf. The increase in turbidity may affect the balance of existing communities favoring the presence of pelagic organisms.

• A reduction in light conditions due to turbidity may limit the growth of corals below 7 m. Currently the water turbidity in this area is the limiting factor for the development of coral reefs, at depths greater than 7 m.

• An increase in fine particle sedimentation will continue to limit the formation of the fringing reefs on the western side of Balhaf cape and could have a role in the potential regression of the coral reef community located there.

the plant operational phase (See Section 7.0).

impact on the formation of corals and may affect the balance of existing intertidal and marine communities. However, the impact of turbidity and sedimentation on corals is considered negligible because of the good dispersion from the currents which will remain high around the cape.

• The increase in detritivorous organisms will have a positive effect on the fish production. In the long term, however, the decrease of the coral population will involve a production loss at the rocky substrates, as the reefs are the main source of organic matter in the area. This area concerned by the production loss is small and is likely to be offset by production further along the coast. The September 2005 survey confirmed that the coral reefs are a nursery for commercial fishes.

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Significance

• Potential disturbance to the two reported sea turtle species, the green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) and the Hawksbill sea turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) by the presence of the LNG plant and the presence of LNG carriers.

• No specific measure needed • Sea turtles were observed in the sea during the coastal diving survey conducted in September 2005 but the beach at Balhaf is rocky and thus unsuitable for turtle nesting.

Negligible

Decommissioning • Removal of marine

structures

• Destruction of coral reefs that have formed on the marine structures (eg. Wastewater outfall, seawater intake, breakwater, jetty).

• Study to be completed for future uses of port (eg. fishing port) and to determine if marine structures should be left in place or not.

• Decommissioning of marine structures will be carried out according to a decommissioning plan and after appropriate studies have been completed.

Negligible

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5.2.3. AIR QUALITY

5.2.3.1. LNG Plant Construction Air quality impacts during LNG plant construction may be caused by the generation of particulate matter (PM) from earthmoving activities. These emissions are referred to as fugitive dust. Combustion contaminants (VOCs, NOx, and SOx) will also be emitted from the exhaust of heavy equipment used for construction of the plant and construction of the marine facilities including the jetty, wharf, water outfall and water intake pipeline.

Mitigation measures The following measures will be implemented during construction:

• up to date construction techniques will be used;

• the construction contractor will be required to provide equipment that has well maintained engines;

Residual impacts and significance The construction emissions will be of a temporary and transient nature and are not expected to have significant adverse impacts on air quality. Based on the temporary nature of emissions and the good air dispersion characteristics of the coastal area, the residual impact of the LNG Plant construction on air quality can be considered as negligible.

5.2.3.2. LNG Plant Operation The Project Area has good air quality, as evidenced during the baseline survey (WCI Baseline survey, 1997). Combustion sources are anticipated to be the predominant source of air contaminants from the LNG Plant. This includes compressor turbines, power generation turbines, steam generation turbines, regeneration gas heater and waste incinerator. Flaring occurs during start-up. No flaring is expected on the Yemen LNG Project during normal operations except for safety reasons. The dominant air contaminants emitted are nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide and particulate matter.

In order to assess the effect of air emissions on existing air quality, a dispersion model (Industrial Source Complex) was utilized for the first EIA (WCI EIA, 1997). Emissions from the sources were quantified using U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) approved emissions factors. However, since the emission values have changed since 1997 due to the fact that no continuous flaring will now be tolerated and burners on gas-turbines and boilers are now “Reduced NOx Emission“ and since flaring was one of the main emission sources., the results of the model could not be used. A updated model is currently being run to evaluate the impact of atmospheric emissions from the LNG plant on air quality and the results will likely confirm the compliance with the air quality standards (see Section 2.0) since the atmospheric emissions are much lower than those estimated in 1997.

The estimated GHG emissions from the Project are presented in Table 3-10 in Section 3.0.

The total emission values used in the ISC model (WCI, 1997) and the predicted emissions from 2010 to 2034 which are being entered in the new run of the model are summarized in the table hereafter:

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Emission Turbines1.

(ton/y)

Boiler and burner1.

(ton/y)

Boiler and

Flare1. (ton/y)

Total 1997 Model input

values1

(t/yr)

Project emissions

2010 to 20342. (ton/y)

Nitrogen oxides 807 1,770 7,801 10,378 5,250

Carbon monoxide

972 304 38,532 39,808 2,170

Particulate matters

144 50 194 nc

Notes: 1. Emission values used as input for the ISC Air dispersion model (WCI, 1997). 2. Emission values estimated for Yemen LNG Project, July 2005. nc: not calculated.

The following table presents the GHG emissions in ktons of CO2 equivalent per million barrels of oil equivalent (Mboe).

Year GHG (Kt/Mboe)

2008 40.72

2009 33.16

2010 - 2034 32.8

The average emission intensity of 32.8 kt/Mboe is low compared to typical emission intensities for LNG plants of 40 kt/Moe. The higher value of 40.72 kt/Mboe in 2008 takes into account the flaring during start-up.

The average emission intensity is calculated using the net utilized production which includes the fuel gas required to run the plant. However, if calculated using only the exported energy the average emission intensity is 34.3 kt/Mboe. This value remains low compared to the typical emission intensities for LNG plants.

Mitigation measures The following design components have been integrated into the Project:

• Stack heights for gas turbines and steam boilers will be designed to enhance dispersion according to the model study results.

• In order to achieve these limits, reduced NOx emission burners are installed on all gas turbines for power generation. There are NOx specifications for all equipment except safety emergency motors.

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• Process equipment containing hydrocarbons will not be depressurized or vented directly to the atmosphere. Hydrocarbon gases or vapors from emergency depressurization will run to the flare system. Hydrocarbon gases will only be relieved to the atmosphere from process equipment in the very exceptional circumstance of the flare not being operational.

• Atmospheric vents will primarily contain steam or inert gas, and will only be discharged to the atmosphere after the major part of hydrocarbons has been removed by scrubbing or burning.

• Finished product (LNG) tank will be double-containment cryogenic tank with external concrete. LPG tanks will be limited to self consumption as buffer (C3 and mixed refrigerant).

• The use of above-ground tanks will be mainly limited to liquid hydrocarbon storage tanks (e.g., diesel tanks) and non-volatile chemical feed systems.

• Vapor boil-off from the LNG storage tanks will be compressed and utilized as fuel gas. Vapour recovered from ships during LNG loading will be sent to the fuel gas. Pressure relief valves at the LNG plant will be designed to operate only in exceptional, emergency relief circumstances.

• Waste incinerator for domestic solid waste will be maintained in good order in order to ensure high efficiency combustion and will be sited at an appropriate distance from the permanent workers camp.

Residual Impacts and significance The impact evaluation is based on normal conditions and equipment functioning according to design specifications. The Environmental and Social Management System (Section 7.0) gives guidelines for emission monitoring and process auditing in order to verify operation in accordance with the design characteristics.

Due to the mitigations measures in place, atmospheric emissions during project operation will be minimized. The atmospheric emissions will be dispersed rapidly because of the good air dispersion characteristics at the site.

The new modeling is currently run to show that the atmospheric emissions during operations will not exceed the ambient air quality standards adopted for the project at the plant fence line, it is assumed that the ambient air quality standards will be respected without difficulty a the plant fence line. Therefore, the ambient air quality standards will be respected for the nearest potential receptors which include the permanent workers camp (approximately 1.5 km from the plant fence line) and also the commercial/cultural area approximately 3 km from the plant fence line.

The average emission intensity of 32.8 kt/Mboe (Gross) to 34.3 kt/Mboe (Net) is lower than the typical emission intensities of 40 kt/Mboe for LNG plant.

The residual impact significance of the LNG Plant operation on air quality is considered negligible.

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5.2.4. AMBIENT NOISE LEVEL The significance of noise level is defined by the comparison with existing guidelines and limits. These guidelines and limits are usually established on a local basis by governmental bodies, and are considered to reflect common concerns and goals regarding a desirable environment. In the absence of local guidelines in Yemen, international standards have been used in this assessment.

The World Bank has established a set of noise standards for projects with which it is involved. These standards utilize noise descriptors (Ldn, Leq). The Ldn noise metric is used for residential land uses, while Leq is used for industrial and commercial land uses (see Section 2.0)

The Project will be considered to result in a significant impact if one or more of the following were to occur:

a) The project’s long-term or permanent noise impacts exceed planning guidelines for the affected land use. The criterion, however, should be evaluated in conjunction with Criterion b) below.

b) The project would cause substantial, or potentially substantial, adverse changes in the ambient noise conditions within the area affected by the Project (e.g., increase long-term ambient noise by 5 to 10 dBA; or short-term ambient noise by 20 dBA) and these changes would impact noise-sensitive receptors.

The analysis of noise impacts has taken into consideration such factors as receptor proximity, time of day, change in noise level, absolute noise level, unusual characteristics of the noise, potential for sleep disturbance and risk of hearing damage. An increase in the long-term ambient noise level of 5 to 10 dBA is generally considered significant. This is because most people consider these noise level changes from an existing level as “substantially louder” to “twice as loud.” For intermittent, temporary noise level increases, a change of more than 20 dBA would be considered significant.

5.2.4.1. LNG Plant Construction Off-site noise would be generated by the construction of the plant. Outside of the immediate construction zone, project construction noise levels would not be considered loud enough to cause risk of hearing loss and no other persons would be exposed to hazardous or dangerous noise levels. Noise from spoils transport trucks and delivery trucks would potentially increase local highway traffic noise. In order to minimize these potential impacts, construction-related vehicles should stay within local speed limits, and should follow recommended measures described in the Environmental and Social Management System.

Other short-term impacts from construction noise could result from construction traffic including materials delivery, and from the camps which will house the construction workers. Noise impacts would be most noticeable at residences in the vicinity of project construction locations. Noise levels would vary depending on the type of construction machinery and equipment used, how it is operated and how well it is maintained. Standard excavation and installation equipment, such as bulldozers, graders, backhoes, loaders, side-boom tractors, welders, and several types of trucks would be used for construction of most plant facilities.

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Using a published (US, 1971) range of noise levels associated with various types of construction equipment, the average hourly noise levels expected to occur during construction activity is calculated as 83 dBA at a distance of 15 m. The night time noise levels expected from construction worker camp activity is 60 dBA at a distance of 15 m.

Some blasting is expected to be necessary on the Balhaf area basalt rocks.

The nearest permanent or semi-permanent residences are located approximately 0.4 km from the closest boundary of the LNG Plant site. At this distance, the noise from construction activities occurring at the closest part of the plant site would be approximately 52 dBA Ldn. This is 7 decibels higher than the estimated ambient noise levels of approximately 45 dBA Ldn. Because this temporary increase is less than 20 decibels, is also less than a ten decibel increase considered significant for long-term change, and is below the 55 dBA Ldn considered acceptable for long-term residential noise environments, construction noise would not create a significant effect at this noise-sensitive location if standard noise mitigation and practices for construction noise are followed.

Air strip construction noise is estimated to be 47 dBA Ldn and 43 dBA Ldn at distances of 700 m and 1000 m respectively from the air strip. These estimated construction noise levels are 7 and 3 decibels respectively above the estimated existing 40 dBA Ldn. Because these temporary increases are less than 20 decibels, are also less than a ten decibel increase considered significant for long-term change, and are well below the 55 dBA Ldn considered acceptable for long-term residential noise environments, construction noise would not create a significant effect at these noise-sensitive locations if standard noise mitigation and practices for construction noise are followed.

Mitigation measures The recommended mitigation measures primarily consist of administrative, operational, and noise control features related to construction equipment and activity, permanent machinery specifications, and operations activity. The Environmental and Social Management System provides general recommendations on noise reduction.

Residual impacts and significance The mosque, hotel, and commercial uses located 650 m from the air strip and 650 m from the Construction Worker Camp would experience a project-related construction noise level of 50 dBA Leq during daytime construction hours and 27 dBA Leq during evening and night time hours for an Ldn of 47 dBA. This level of noise is considered negligible.

Therefore, the residual impact of the noise from LNG plant construction is considered negligible.

5.2.4.2. LNG Plant Operation

Plant Process Operations Noise Operational plant noise effects are based on estimates of the noise generated by the combination of the various process units expected to be part of the Balhaf Plant. This would include power generation; production of hot or cold water or steam; gas compressor operation; condensers and cooling towers; and various pumps, motors, blowers, relief valves, etc.

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This analysis assumes that the equipment specifications regarding noise emissions would limit noise to a maximum continuous average noise level (the “equivalent noise level”, Leq) of 88 dBA at a distance of one meter (or an acoustical equivalent for very large multi-component noise sources). The analysis assumes that the equipment would be designed, insulated, shrouded, shielded, or enclosed so that the noise level is limited to this specified level or less. Inclusion of this noise emission level in the equipment specification is recommended as a mitigation measure.

The Balhaf Plant will have two process units and each process unit will contain between 20 and 50 pieces of noise-generating equipment. Because of the physical size and configuration of the plant (about 1,700 m by 700 meters), not all noise sources would affect any given noise-sensitive receptor.

The expected plant operations noise level at 1000 m from the nearest process unit would be 42 dBA Leq. Assuming that this noise level would occur over continuous 24-hour periods, the Leq is adjusted upward to reflect the nightime penalty of the Day-Night Average Level yielding an Ldn of approximately 48 dBA. This increase in overall noise level is only moderately perceivable and is well below the 55 dBA Ldn believed to be acceptable for residential uses. Project noise levels will be even lower at locations more distant than these nearest residences.

Based upon the above assumptions and analysis, the Balhaf Plant operations noise will result in a negligible effect on community noise levels in known noise-sensitive areas.

Air Strip Operations Noise Several noise descriptors are used throughout the world to describe aircraft/airport noise levels and impacts on adjacent noise-sensitive areas. Certain descriptors are more appropriate for describing the noise environment produced by large commercial airports while other descriptors are better suited for describing the potential effects of small, limited-use private airstrips. Several factors are considered in the evaluation of aircraft noise and its effects. These factors include the aircraft type (i.e., small/large, propeller/jet), number of daily operations (i.e., takeoffs/landings), period of daily activity (e.g., daytime—07:00 to 19:00 hours), and orientation of flight patterns with respect to nearby noise-sensitive areas.

For small facilities, such as the airstrip proposed for the Balhaf site, the number of “noise events” (i.e., landings/takeoffs), or the maximum noise level of a single operation, or both, are commonly used. In general, if the aircraft activity is limited to the daytime hours, produces less than ten noise events per day (i.e., <1 per hour on average), and generates a maximum noise level (Lmax) of less than 70 dBA at most noise-sensitive locations, the effects would be considered negligible.

Mitigation Measures The recommended mitigation measures primarily consist of administrative, operational, and noise control features related to construction equipment and activity, permanent machinery specifications, and operations activity. The Environmental and Social Management System provides general recommendations on noise reduction.

Residual Impacts and significance The LNG plant will not generate noise levels that cannot be mitigated. Because there are no other known, significant noise-producing projects in the vicinity of the Balhaf site, the project will not produce cumulative impacts.

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The project, with incorporation of the recommended mitigation measures can therefore be considered as having a negligible noise impact on sensitive receptors.

The residual impact from noise of the LNG plant operations is considered negligible.

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5.3. PIPELINES AND BALHAF LNG PLANT: SOCIO-ECONOMIC RECEPTORS

The main anticipated effects of the Project on the local socio-economy are related to the impact of the construction of the plant site at Balhaf on livelihoods of local fishermen and normal fishing activities as well as on the local economy and infrastructure, including employment and local road networks. Due to the relatively unpopulated and predominantly deserted nature of the Project Area, no other significant effects on local socio-economic receptors are expected.

The key socio-economic sensitive receptors likely to be impacted by the Project and the potential issues arising from these impacts have been identified as follows:

Local communities and Population Centres

• Socio-cultural, community relations and health impacts of presence of project camps/workforce.

Local Economy & Livelihoods - Fishing, Agricultural Land (Access and Ownership) and Employment

• Loss or enhancement of livelihoods for fishing communities and land users, including loss of access to farm land and fishing resources from project land acquisition and restrictions on the use of Balhaf bay; and

• Contribution to and impact on local economy from:

- Employment; and

- Procurement of goods and services.

Infrastructure and Services

• Pressure on/improvement and maintenance of local infrastructure and services – roads network, water resources and energy.

Tourism and Visual Resources

• Visual and physical impact of project on potential for tourism development.


• Impact to Archaeology and Cultural Heritage receptors in the vicinity of the pipeline and plant site.

Due to the difficulties in obtaining reliable data in Yemen and at the project site relating to some of the above socio-economic receptors and issues, only preliminary assessments have been made of the likely significance of impacts at this stage. This is the case for example with potential impacts of employment and of the construction camp and expatriate workforce on the local population and economy. To date, the full range of construction contracts for the Balhaf Plant have yet to be finalized and complete data on labour requirements for construction and operation are thus unavailable. A full assessment of the potential impact significance cannot therefore be reliably undertaken at this stage. Tables 5.7 (for the pipelines) and 5.8 (for the LNG plant) present a summary of the impacts and mitigation measures that will be implemented in order to reduce the potential impact on socio-economic receptors and gives the residual impact significance.

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5.3.1. Local Communities and Population Centres

Potential Impacts Along the pipeline route the overall potential impact on the existing population centres is not expected to be significant during pipeline construction or operation. The pipeline is largely through desert, with very low human population numbers, and the few existing villages are located at some distance from the pipeline. In addition, the most populated areas, located along Wadi Jirdan, Wadi Salmoon and Wadi Mahyid will be avoided by the preferred pipeline route. Only one house has been encountered within the ROW at the descent of the plateau in Wadi Salmoon close to KP 208. On the coastal plain, an area of rapid population growth located mainly along the Aden-Mukalla asphalt road is 2 to 3 km from the pipeline route and will not be greatly affected by the pipeline, which has been rerouted at this point to avoid more populated areas.

At the plant site and around Balhaf there is some potential for the project activities to impact local populations including:

• Local fishing populations, including fishing communities from villages surrounding Balhaf, which used the bay for fishing on a seasonal basis; and

• Isolated dwellings and scattered populations around or near the plant site. The plant site at Balhaf is situated in a restricted, ex military zone, which was designated specifically for the development of this project by the Yemen Government. There is no permanent local population resident at or near the site itself except for a small number of isolated dwellings within the Balhaf restricted area but outside the plant area numbering 70 (CSO data 2004), small numbers of precariously settled refugees in towns close to Balhaf (along the main road), and some temporary fishing shelters (see above). This community will not be undergoing physical relocation from their homes and is therefore likely to experience some impacts and disturbance related to construction and operation activities but these are only expected to be minor.

Construction activity will be mostly contained within the boundary fence of the plant site but transportation of plant and material in and out of the site will be partly via the MOF (Material Offloading Facility) thus reducing the disturbance from project traffic for communities in the immediate vicinity of the plant site.

There is the potential for local communities and any local migrant population attracted by the presence of the Project to be impacted by the presence of the construction workforce and construction camps sited near the Balhaf Plant and in the pipeline area (Section 3.1.2.3 and 3.2.2.3).

Although the camps are expected to be relatively self-contained and the workforce limited to restricted movements and contact with external communities, the workforce will be large and may include a significant number of expatriate and non-local Yemeni employees, therefore some interaction will inevitably occur and has to be managed. The potential impacts caused by the presence of these camps could include:

• Socio-cultural tension between workforce/camp and local or incoming work seeking population or refugees in the locality, particularly where unemployment is high and local communities feel they should be benefiting from project related employment opportunities; and

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• Potential health impacts related to communicable/sexually transmitted diseases.

Mitigation Measures Overall, as indicated in Section 4.0 the pipeline has been routed to avoid populated locations within the Project Area, thereby avoiding/mitigating any significant social impacts to local communities and ensuring that the potentially affected population in the Project Area is small.

The remaining potential for minor impacts during pipeline construction is in potential noise disturbance or nuisance that could occur as a result of construction activities as mobile teams and camps pass scattered populations in the pipeline area and at the boundary and along access roads to the Balhaf plant site. The two temporary pipeline construction camps will however, be located close to the road but in desert areas, and more than 3 km from any inhabited areas, away from productive agricultural land and are therefore not anticipated to have any significant impact.

Any potential disturbance impacts will be mitigated and managed through a Community Relations Management Plan and a Construction Camp Management Plan. For the temporary pipeline construction camps this will include consultation with potentially affected communities in advance of the construction team’s progress, where possible. Where consultation is not possible a watching brief will be in place to inform local communities and avoid situating camps near to inhabited settlements or productive agricultural land.

Potential impacts of construction at Balhaf may include minor disturbance impacts from the construction activities, workforce movements and the presence of the camp. These will be managed through a Community Relations Management Plan to strengthen and manage the relationship between the construction workforce and the local community as well a Construction Camp Management Plan. This will include amongst other measures a strictly enforced workforce code of conduct, a site refugee management procedure, a transport plan for the transfer of personnel to and from site, cultural awareness training for non-Yemeni/expatriate personnel and a communicable disease, health and safety plan.

The potential impact of the plant construction and operation at Balhaf on relations with the local fishing community is the likely to be the most significant of the above issues. Relationships with the fishing community have to date been managed through extensive consultation as part of the wider project Public Consultation and Disclosure Plan.

The above plans are currently being developed as part of the YLNG ESMP.

Impact Significance The residual socio-cultural, community relations and health impacts on local communities in the vicinity of the pipeline, plant site and camps are considered to be minor/negligible.

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5.3.2. Local Economy and Livelihoods The impacts of the Project on the local economy and livelihoods relate mainly to the impact on local seasonal fishing activities, on the local goods, services and wages market, on the labour market and on potential future development of the area around Balhaf plant site for tourism and leisure activities. They also relate to compensation for temporary loss of access to land by the project along the pipeline route.

5.3.2.1. Fishing

Potential Impacts

The implementation of the LNG plant at Balhaf will have the effect of displacing some of the traditional fishing activities of the seasonal fishing community using the bay. This displacement will partly be caused by a loss of access to temporary shelter and fishing areas as well as access to the strip of coastal land in the Balhaf plant site area, where unloading and loading of fish catch for transportation and an auction of fish produce have previously taken place.

A small population of local fishermen use Balhaf as a temporary base and natural shelter during the summer monsoon fishing season (June to late September). During those months estimated number of boats which used by Balhaf site is around 200). Fishing communities of al Ayn Bay (to the west) as well as some fishermen from Bir Ali (15 km to the east) are expected to be affected.

In term of positive effects of the Project, the Al Ayn Bay and Bir Ali fishing areas (and potentially those further a field) are likely to benefit from the increased demand for fish during construction and operation, however it will be important to manage this to ensure no short term over fishing occurs and no long term dependency is created for when construction operations wind down.

Mitigation Measures As part the Project’s Public Consultation and Disclosure plan, consultation has commenced between the Project and the key identified stakeholders including local fishing communities that use Balhaf Bay on a seasonal basis. This has aimed to address and respond to local concerns, and to discuss options for addressing the potential loss of livelihood or access to natural resources they may incur as a result of the new plant and project activities at Balhaf.

These planned compensation measures forms part of the project’s Fishermen Compensation Plan (which is being developed in accordance with the World Bank Operational Policy 4.12 on “Involuntary Resettlement”) and is aimed to mitigate any displacement of economic activity or temporary loss of access to land as a result of project activities.

More detail regarding the development of this policy and a summary of the consultation process and its participants can be found in Section 7.0 and in the Summary PCDP which is in preparation. Full meeting minutes and details of these consultations will be included in the full PCDP as part of the next issue of this ESIA.

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As part of the mitigation planning and to support local consultation, YLNG commissioned McAlister Elliott and Partners, a specialist fisheries consultancy with experience in Yemen, to undertake a study (carried out in December 2005) on local fisheries impact and local compensation measures. The study covered:

• Assessment of small-scale fisheries in the area including a socio-economic analysis;

• Description of the marine ecology and bio-diversity;

• Assessment of local fishing cooperatives and their functioning;

• Assessment of local auctioning of fish catch and marketing methods of fish catch;

• Examination of the issues surrounding actual and potential over fishing of particular species;

• Description of the main fishing communities in the Project Area (Al Heibalah to Bir Ali);

• Estimation of the numbers of fishermen, boats, annual production (including by target species) and financial performance per boat;

• Analysis of the key impacts on fishing of the YLNG Project (loss of: auction point profits, fishing profits, fishing area, shelter, spawning/nursery areas);

• Needs identified by fishing communities (short term and longer term);

• Proposed compensation options divided between immediate short term and long term measures.

Fishing Study – preliminary findings

The fisheries impact study raised a number of options for short term and long term compensation measures, focused on bringing benefit to the communities of Al Ayn Bay (from Al Heibalah to Balhaf). The proposed compensation in intended to be commensurate with the scale of financial losses experienced. The measures under consideration are aimed at reducing the cost of fishing, at increasing the value of fish landed (to the local fishermen), at offering opportunities for investment in fishing-related activities in the area and at offering additional employment in fisheries services. There is also a planned longer-term support for the coastal zone management process. This process consists of a range of measures in education and community management of sustainable fisheries, some of which may be appropriate for YLNG’s support as part of its wider sustainable development legacy.

Impact Significance There is potentially a significant impact on local fishing communities. Once implementation of agreed compensation measures has been carried out, however, the residual impact on fishing communities is expected to be minor.

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5.3.2.2. Land (Ownership and Access)

Potential Impacts

As the pipeline route is predominantly located in uninhabited land, the Transfer Line and the Main Line route will generally not disturb agricultural fields. However, some agricultural areas (5 to 10 ha) present within the 60 m wide zone of the pipeline are typically corn cultivated fields or livestock-rearing areas (camels, goats, cattle) but only encountered on the plateau between KP 180 and 190.

Some cultivated areas are also encountered outside the 60 m wide zone but within the 400 m restricted zone (+/- 200 m on either side of the pipeline), both at the entrance of Wadi Jirdan (KP 135), on the plateau (KP 160 and 195) and in Wadi Salmoon at the descent of the plateau (KP 208).

On the coastal plain, the selected pipeline route is located to the hilly slopes to the north to avoid recent agricultural fields and the recent growth of inhabited areas (Figure 5-4).

Some temporary loss of access to land during the pipeline construction phase is expected. Access to this land will be reinstated as far as possible once the construction is complete.

At Balhaf plant site aside from access impacts to local fishermen no other loss of access to land is anticipated and there is no known agricultural land use at or near the Balhaf plant site.

Mitigation Measures In order to mitigate potential impacts related to temporary loss of access to land by the Project and guided by the YLNG’s Agricultural Land Compensation Plan, a Land Compensation Committee has been established through an agreement between YLNG and the Yemeni Government. The Compensation Committee consists of a panel of designated persons, comprising the Deputy Minister of Oil and Minerals, the Deputy Governor of Shabwa, the Deputy Governor of Marib, the General Manager-Ministry of Oil and Minerals Office Shabwa Governate, General Manager-Ministry of Oil and Minerals Office Marib Governorate and the YLNG Officer-Shabwa Governorate. The committee uses a system for compensation, which has been tested in other pipeline projects in the country to provide land users with financial compensation for loss of access including those cases where reinstatement of access will be possible once construction is complete. The Compensation Committee will follow Yemeni law, which states that land must be compensated at market value and allow the compensated party to temporarily relocate as well as construct replacement accommodation in another area if necessary.

Temporary loss of access will be compensated in all cases and in those cases where reinstatement of access to land is not possible further compensation will be provided for any permanent impact on local land users.

Impact Significance Residual impact on land access is considered to be negligible.

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5.3.2.3. Local employment

Potential Impacts Preliminary consultation with pipeline-affected communities has indicated employment to be a key issue of concern for local populations. There is a high expectation for job opportunities from the Project, and providing jobs for Yemeni nationals, particularly local people from Shabwa/Marib Governorates, is perceived widely as an obligation of the Project and a means of facilitating and strengthening the Project’s relationship with the local community in the region. YLNG’s objective is to maximise the Yemeni content of the workforce but it is important to note that this is dependent on the availability of skills locally.

It should also be noted that the requirements for the pipeline construction phase will be for a greater proportion of unskilled workers than skilled, whilst the plant construction which is more technically complex will require more a larger number of highly skilled workers with specific training.

5.3.2.4. Yemeni Content of Workforce

Potential Impact At Balhaf for the construction phase the percentage of Yemeni versus non-Yemeni workers is undefined at this stage.

For the pipeline construction is it anticipated that 20% will be skilled Yemeni workers and 60% will be unskilled and many are likely to be sourced from Shabwa or Marib Governorates and along the pipeline.

Mitigation Measures Potential employment opportunities will be maximised and the project relationship with the local community managed through the implementation of YLNG’s recruitment and employment policies which will be elaborated in a Recruitment, Employment and Training Plan and Community Relations Management Plan to be managed by contractors, and Community and Site Liaison Officers respectively. This will help maximise local job and training opportunities arising from the project wherever possible.

As part of the project’s active cooperation with local communities, consultation with Governorate labour offices have already taken place on the subject of employment and local needs have been acknowledged and documented. In response to the local demand the project contractors have agreed with the Shabwa Governor to communicate their recruitment needs to the Shabwa Labour Council to help ensure that demand for employment in the Shabwa Governorate (in addition to the labour needs of those travelling to the project site) has been taken into account.

A ‘Welcome Office’ has been set up at the entrance to the Balhaf Plant site, to manage the recruitment process and register job applicants, by communicating job opportunities and recruiting locally where possible. This office is managed and administrated by a Yemeni Site Liaison Officer (SLO). The Project’s Employment Policy is wherever possible to recruit first from the local Rodhoom Directorate, then from Shabwa Governorate and only after that from the wider Yemeni population.

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Impact Significance Although it is currently difficult to assess the Project’s quantitative employment impact on the local labour market, a preliminary assessment suggests employment impacts will be moderate (positive) during construction and over the operational phase of the Project.

5.3.2.5. Local procurement of goods and services

Potential Impacts The presence of an imported expatriate workforce and construction camp near Balhaf is anticipated to have positive impacts on the local economy by generating business for the local service industry. The Project will require transport, services, catering, minor works, civil engineering, and security. At a more local level the workforce will generate business for the local café and garage (petrol station) as well as for other local trade outlets/markets e.g. fish market.

The Project is also expected to attract mobile tradesmen and new small start up businesses around the plant site and construction camp, from those seeking to benefit from the economic opportunities generated by the presence of a temporary workforce.

The Project also has the potential to have a negative impact through pressures on the local economy, which may include:

• Work-seeking migration stimulated by the presence of worker camps at the plant site;

• Associated potential increase in informal economy in the area;

• Potential market distortions and associated price inflation as a result of wage earning immigrant workers entering the local economy;

• Dependency for local suppliers on a newly expanded market at peak of construction period, followed by a drop in demand for local services once the construction is completed.

Overall it is in the interests of both the Project and the local community to maximise local procurement of goods and services by the Project throughout both construction and operation phases, provided these can be sourced from local suppliers to the necessary quantity and quality and to meet the health and safety standards required by the Project. It should be noted however, that from a preliminary assessment of the limited data currently available (prior to the appointment of contractors), impacts are not anticipated to be significant in the area of the pipeline, since local services appear to be relatively few. Local economic impacts are expected to be more significant in the vicinity of the plant site at Balhaf.

Mitigation Measures Once contractors have been formally appointed, YLNG will commission a specialist evaluation of the likely procurement impacts of the Project (and particularly the plant site construction camp), during construction, operation and decommissioning of the pipeline and plant.

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Impact Significance Residual impact on local economy is considered to be minor positive (to be confirmed following the impact assessment and once catering and other sub-contractors are appointed).

5.3.3. Infrastructure and services

Potential Impacts Roads

The Project- Area is currently badly served with inadequate or badly maintained roads.

Project Construction activities are likely to result in increased traffic load during working hours through movement of plant, pipe yards and machinery as well as transportation of workforce to and from construction site. These activities could cause some inconvenience and disturbance to local users as well as deterioration of already badly maintained road surface infrastructure. However the Project will also contribute to the improvement of the condition of current roads as well as build new access roads to support the construction process, particularly in more remote areas.

Water

Water is a scare resource throughout Yemen and the Project Area in particular.

The pipeline has been routed to avoid major surface and groundwater resources. Water wells will be drilled to provide water to the two pipeline construction camps. For Balhaf camp and plant the water will be provided by a desalination plant. The Project is therefore not anticipated to have a significant impact on local water infrastructure and supplies.

Potential opportunities have been identified for the Project to have a positive impact through sustainable water projects in Project Affected People. These are discussed further in the Preliminary Social Investment Strategy in Section 7.0.

Access to energy

Baseline survey work to date has shown the socio-economic conditions in the vicinity of the pipeline and plant site (more particularly the latter) to be relatively deprived. Remote locations, poor infrastructure and limited or inadequate public services mean very few settlements are connected to mains and electricity and populations are dependent on basic combustion fuels and scattered gas cylinder supply facilities across the directorates for their energy supply.

This issue has not been raised explicitly yet by local communities but YLNG is aware of the issues surrounding energy supply to local communities and will be looking into the potential for making contributions to supporting local energy projects in the region in future.

In a future phase of the YLNG Project it is intended to construct a separate pipeline (the Spur Line) to transport gas to the populated highland area of Yemen to the west – once completed this will bring major benefit to a significant proportion of the Yemeni population. This additional project will be the subject of a separate ESIA nearer the time.

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Mitigation Measures The impact of heavy loads on local road infrastructure in the Balhaf area will be reduced by the use of the MOF (Material Offloading Facility) in Balhaf bay.

Potential impacts to local infrastructure from project traffic and transport movements and net impact on water and energy supplies will be mitigated through an Community Infrastructure Plan and a Transport Management Plan.

Impact Significance Residual impact on local infrastructure is considered to be minor.

5.3.4. Tourism and Visual Resources

Potential impacts The section of the main pipeline corridor at the entry to the Plateau (KP 132 - KP 134) and at the exit of the Plateau (KP 200 - KP 205) passes through very steep slopes and vertical cliffs of dolomitic limestone. This area has a significant value for its important visual and scenic resources. Although the area is remote and access is very difficult, potential tourist development of the area in the future cannot be ruled out.

The visual contrasts of the main line route are not visible from sensitive viewing locations or viewpoints, in areas of Class A scenic quality landscape (i.e. the most distinctive landscapes which occur within and near the edges of plateau, along steep canyons and rock cliff faces). By avoiding a direct ascent to the plateau through a vertical cliff, no visual changes are expected to attract attention in the landscape.

New disturbances caused by pipeline construction would create strong color contrasts between the newly exposed soil and adjacent, undisturbed areas. Linear intrusions caused by the straight edges and lines of the ROW will contrast with the curvilinear line patterns and forms of the natural landscape. If the rock spoil from the excavation is too coarse, it may not be reused in the backfill and will have to be stocked along the pipeline or in special dedicated areas. Rock stockpiles and large boulder material remaining from construction would accent the straight line edge and depending on their location, those areas could have a negative visual impact.

The coastal area of Balhaf - Bir Ali - Burum, is considered to be one of the most important coral areas in Yemen, as well as an important area for coral-living fish (refer to PERSGA report from 2002) It therefore has a high potential for tourism development. The area, which extends from Bir Ali to the east and beyond was identified to become part of the network of the proposed Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) of Yemen. The site reserved for the LNG Plant lies in the western part of the proposed coastal zone management area, (see Figure 4-12 in Section 4.0 and discussion on CZMP in Section 4.7.7).

Moderate impacts would occur where the Project would primarily create moderate visual contrasts, visible from sensitive viewpoints, in Class B scenic quality landscapes (i.e. common landscapes typified by the top of the plateau, base of steep slopes, and rocky foothills). Moderately impacted landscapes allow various degrees of visual modification to the characteristic landscape and various degrees of domination in the view to existing visual elements in the landscape. Moderate impacts would occur in communities and roads where views of steep slopes and rock blasting would draw visual attention.

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Most of the Project would have low impacts on visual resources, where the Project would have a low visual contrast and lower visibility from sensitive viewpoints.

Mitigation Measures YLNG is considering providing support for the Yemeni Coastal Zone Management Plan (CZMP) efforts towards sustainable tourism.

Impact Significance Because of loss of tourist resource at Balhaf bay, since it is part of a longer stretch of coast with tourism potential, the residual impact can be considered as minor.

5.3.5. Archaeology and Cultural Heritage

5.3.5.1. Pipeline

Potential Impacts DAI and CEFAS stated in their final report (November 2005) that, whilst there were 171 separate archaeological structures identified during the survey, only two were scientifically significant to the point where specific action was needed. These two sites are therefore potentially impacted by the pipeline route.

The first site was at the outflow of the Wadi Jirdan, a Hadramitic (Darbas) occupation from approximately the second half of the 1st millennium BC. DAI and CEFAS confirmed that this site is of major historical interest. A protection of the settlement and the field system has been recommended. Also the channel system will be studied before any construction work is carried out. Furthermore, a modification to the pipeline route at this location will be considered (if practicable).

The second site was on the plateau where several single tombs and three big cemeteries were documented. DAI and CEFAS confirmed that the tombs on the plateau are of great scientific interest. They recommended that, before construction work takes place, a further detailed archaeological study is necessary which consists of the excavation of selected tombs and structures. This will be done in March/April 2006.

Finally, on the coastal plain, there was a relatively modern (Islamic) tower-like fortress located about 100m from the pipe route. This was felt to be sufficient clearance to avoid damaging this structure during pipelay therefore this structure is NOT impacted by the pipeline route.

Mitigation Measures YLNG has responded positively to these findings and, since the Project complies with World Bank guidelines on cultural heritage (OP11.30), it is intended that these sites will either be preserved by rerouting the pipeline or, if this is not possible, a full archaeological excavation and recording will be arranged to fully research and document these sites for posterity. The field work will be carried out around March/April 2006 (when the appropriately qualified people would be available) and GOAM (The Yemen General Organisation for Antiquities and Museums) will participate in this field work.

In the event that pipeline rerouting is neither possible nor practicable, then the DAI/CEFAS scope of work will typically comprise the following:

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TYPICAL SCOPE OF WORK OF ARCHAEOLOGICAL EXCAVATION AND RECORDING

Darbas Settlement Bronze Age Tombs

Small soundings at the settlement, the channels and the ancient fields

Excavation of selected tombs and structures

Drillings in the field area Surveying

Surveying Detailed mapping of all structures

Mapping of all structures Documentation (description, photo, drawing) of all endangered ancient structures

Documentation (description, photo, drawing) of ancient structures, in particular of structures which will be destroyed irreversibly by the construction work

Collecting of surface finds Collecting of surface finds

Documentation and classification of all finds (survey and excavation)

Documentation and classification of all finds (survey and excavation)

Sampling (C14 for example) Sampling (C14 samples, bones, teeth…)

Analyzing samples Analyzing samples and bone material

Preparation of reports Preparation of reports

Preparation of the results for scientific (and public interest) publications

Preparation of the results for scientific (and public interest) publications

Residual Impact Significance The pipeline route will result in the loss of a number of archaeological sites as identified by DAI and CEFAS. Only two of these are considered to be of scientific or archaeological interest and, as described above, these will either be preserved by rerouting the pipeline or, if that is not possible, they will be fully researched and documented by an International team of architectural and archaeological specialists. It is worth pointing out that neither of the scientifically interesting sites was previously known to the archaeological community hence this Project has allowed identification and researching of these sites.

The residual impact significance is therefore either negligible (for the undisturbed or low interest sites) or minor (for the disturbed but fully researched and documented sites).

5.3.5.2. Balhaf Site

Potential Impacts Bronze Age Structures

There are a number of Bronze Age structures at Balhaf, predominantly tumuli and tomb like structures. These have been fully excavated, investigated, photographed and documented by a Yemeni archaeologist over a period from August 2005 to January 2006. This has resulted in a number of comprehensive archaeological reports supported by photographs and, where appropriate, drawings.

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Any findings or remains of note have been preserved in liaison with GOAM (The Yemen General Organisation for Antiquities and Museums) and in accordance with World Bank guidance on the preservation of cultural heritage.

Modern Structures

The modern (20th Century) structures at Balhaf have been studied and documented using the latest photogrammetric analysis techniques by DAI and CEFAS during October 2005. Six buildings have been studied and documented (North Tower, South Tower, the Fort, the Prayer Room, the Custom House and the Jail) by laser theodolite in order to produce two dimensional plans and a three dimensional overview of the main buildings. The most important buildings have all been thus fully researched, measured, photographed and documented.

These buildings were found to be in a generally poor condition, some of them (eg the Towers) were dangerous and could therefore not be entered or approached safely. They were probably built and/or rebuilt in the 1930’s.

Mitigation Measures Where possible, the Bronze Age structures have been protected and preserved (an example is the Cemetery) but this is not always possible due to plant construction requirements. For this reason, the investigation and documentation of each individual structure by a professional archaeologist has been carried out in a careful and consistent manner and with the full co-operation of GOAM.

YLNG has fenced off the Cemetery and also committed to build a temporary mosque outside the site boundary. The North Tower, Fort, Prayer Room, Jail and Custom House will, of necessity and for safety reasons, be demolished. The South Tower will presently be left alone (it is in a very poor condition so may collapse unintentionally). YLNG is currently looking to rebuild the South Tower once site construction work has been completed.

Residual Impact Significance The site construction activities will result in the loss of a number of archaeological sites as identified by the Yemeni Archaeologist or by DAI and CEFAS. None of the modern structures are considered to be of either scientific or archaeological interest and therefore their loss is not considered to be of anything other than negligible impact. Nevertheless, as described above, some of the modern structures will either be preserved or, if that is not possible, they will be fully researched and documented by an International team of architectural and archaeological specialists. In the case of the Prayer Room, it will be rebuilt and in the case of the South Tower it will be reconstructed to represent the original structure in its pre-construction condition.

Some of the Bronze Age structures will be lost as a result of construction activities, but the items of scientific interest have been preserved and the sites fully excavated and researched/documented.

The residual impact significance is therefore either negligible (for the undisturbed or low interest sites) or minor (for the disturbed but fully researched and documented sites).

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Table 5.7: Potential social impacts, mitigation measures and residual impact significance of pipelines on socio-economic receptors


Significance

Construction




• Trenching

• Pipe laying



Agricultural livehoods

• Damage to irrigation and other agricultural systems

• Damage to fences and loss of agricultural land caused by ROW clearing.

• Potential indirect impact on habitations in the vicinity of the pipeline ROW (farm houses).

• The pipeline route on the plateau has been chosen to avoid the populated areas of Wadi Jirdan, Wadi Salmoon and wadi Mahyid, the numerous cultivated fields and the vulnerable shallow wadi aquifer. In the lower Wadi Jirdan course, the route avoids the main agricultural land.

• Construction techniques will ensure that damage to irrigation systems is minimized and flows in channels are maintained.

• Compensation to farmers who lose agricultural land and /or farm houses and buildings.

• On the coastal plain the adopted pipeline route passes to the north of the road to avoid population centres and agricultural fields which are currently expanding.

• It is estimated that less than 10 hectares of agricultural land could be lost along the pipeline route. This represents less than 0.4 % of the 60 m wide area along the pipeline.

Negligible

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Significance

Archaeology and cultural heritage

• Disturbance to or loss of existing archeological/cultural sites

• Investigate feasibility of rerouting pipeline to avoid the 2 sites of scientific or cultural interest.

• Fully research and document threatened sites which are of scientific or cultural interest.

• An Archaeology Protection Plan is being prepared to minimize any impacts. If necessary, excavation will be carried out where recommended.

• The residual impact significance is either negligible (for the undisturbed or low interest sites) or minor (for the disturbed but fully researched and documented sites).

Negligible/ minor

Construction traffic

• Noise, dust and vehicle traffic may disturb local populations

• Increase of traffic in some areas because of construction activities.

• Construction camp locations and access roads will be selected to limit impacts on the environment and disturbance to the local populations.

• The increase of traffic during construction activities will occur over a period of at least two years.

• However, due to the low population density in this area there are few potential receptors (i.e. built-up areas, villages, schools).

Negligible to minor

Construction camps

• Work-seeking migration stimulated by the presence of worker camps at the plant site;

• Associated potential increase in informal economy in the area;

• Potential market distortions and associated price inflation as a result of wage earning

• Pipeline route avoids population centres

• Construction camps will be relatively self contained

• Analysis will be made of local procurement (food and water) impacts once catering contractors appointed

• Development of a Community Relations Management Plan and Construction Camp Management Plan,

• Impacts due to local procurement of foodstuffs (temporary market only) is positive

• Issues resulting from contact with local communities

Minor

(some aspects potentially positive)

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Significance

immigrant workers entering the local economy;

• Dependency for local suppliers on a newly expanded market at peak of construction period, followed by a drop in demand for local services once the construction is completed

• Potential socio-cultural tensions with local communities

• Potential health impacts related to communicable diseases

including consultation with potentially affected communities in advance of building of construction camps

• Appointment of two Community Liaison Officers


• For tourism, the potential impacts are visual toward the pipeline construction areas, construction camps and the access road ROW disturbance and associated landscape scarring. Color and texture contrasts would be created by landform, soil and vegetation disturbances.

• Improper waste management could have an impact on the visual integrity of the area

• After the end of construction, the camp sites will be restored.

• The edges of the construction ROW will be feathered to avoid straight edges

• Minimise ground disturbance to the extent possible, removing rock stock piles and randomly dispersing left-over rock material,

• Strategically locate facilities to reduce visibility to sensitive viewpoints

• The pipeline is buried and it is located in a remote area where the access is difficult. The pipeline and its associated facilities will therefore have very little visual impact or impacts on tourism.

Negligible

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Significance

• Visual impacts from pipeline ROW

• The pipeline is buried.

• The pipeline ROW is located in a remote area where the access is difficult. The pipeline ROW will have very little visual impact or impacts on tourism.

Negligible

Operation

• Maintenance


• Improper waste management could have an impact on the visual integrity of the area

• Waste Management Plan

• Based on this plan, waste will be disposed of in controlled landfill at the Balhaf plant.

Negligible

Decommissioning

• Increase in agricultural land available due to the fact that the pipeline ROW will no longer be restricted.

• Restoration of the ground disturbed along the pipeline trench by levelling the surface

• Revegetate of ROW where vegetation has been removed where necessary to minimize visual contrast

• Maintenance road will be rehabilitated, if necessary (for example where it intersects with an agricultural zone).

• The pipeline ROW will be available for agricultural land. Agriculture could be reinstated in some small areas along the pipeline route (ie. in the vicinity of wadis). However, small areas only are involved.

Negligible

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Table 5-8: Potential social impacts, mitigation measures and residual impact significance of LNG Plant on socio-economic receptors


Significance

Fishing livehoods

• Fishermen who used Balhaf as a shelter during the summer months will be prevented from accessing the site.

• Reduction in fishing areas due to the implementation of the YLNG marine restricted area. The fishing area potentially disturbed is estimated at 20 to 40 km2.

• Indirect reduction in fish production areas due to loss of a small proportion of the coral reef nursery areas during the construction of facilities close to the shore.

• Final mitigation measures have yet to be determined. A full consultancy covering technical and socio economic issues was commissioned and took place in December 2006. This included a full consultation with ,local fishermen.

• The preliminary findings of this study have now been made available to YLNG: these include options for short term and long term compensation measures, aimed at reducing the cost of fishing, at increasing the value of the fish landed, at creating opportunities for investment in fishing-related activities and at creating additional employment in fisheries services.

• The Project is developing its Compensation Policy for Economic Loss in accordance with World Bank Operational Policy Op 4.12.

• Compensatory programs are currently being studied and under active discussion with both local communities and the Ministry of Fish Wealth.

• The proposed compensation will be commensurate with the scale of loss experienced and will follow IFC guidelines for ‘Resettlement Action Plans’ (which also cover economic displacement, loss of assets and impairment of livelihood).

Minor (fishing)

Construction


• Plant construction

• End of construction phase

Contribution to local / regional economy

• Increase in employment and indirect employment

• Develop a comprehensive plan in consultation with local and national authorities with regards to direct and indirect employment from the Project.

• Particular emphasis will be given to local employment from Rodhoom Directorate and Shabwa Governorate (while recognizing this may be largely limited to the less skilled jobs)

• The direct and indirect employment generated by the Project will have a positive effect on the local and regional economy.

Moderate to Major (positive)

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Significance

• Job seekers turning up at the plant site looking for work will be managed through a Welcome House staffed by a Site Liaison officer


• There is unlikely to have been any significant tourism at the Balhaf site during the three-year construction phase

• Visual impact of construction of plant and loss of buildings in the bay

• Mitigation of visual impacts includes the choice of using matte rather than reflective material for external finishes on structures and facilities. The use of uniform colours for painted facilities will also be considered. Colours will, where possible, match predominant colors of adjacent landscape.

• South Tower will be either maintained/ renovated or rebuilt.

• Given the lack of potential viewers and interesting viewpoints in the area the visual impact of the plant is expected to be limited.

Negligible to Minor


• Damage and/or destruction of archeological resources in the Balhaf area

• An Archaeological Protection Plan is being prepared to detail the measures to be taken to protect or record archaeological / historical sites..

• The cemetery will be preserved and protected by fences. The prayer room will be rebuilt elsewhere and the south tower will be rebuilt on completion of site activities.

• The residual impact significance is either negligible (for the undisturbed or low interest sites) or minor (for the disturbed but fully researched and documented sites.

Negligible/ Minor

Construction (continued)

Loss of employment at end of construction phase

• Decrease in employment in the local area at the end of construction phase.

• Plan will be put in place to ensure the smooth closing down of the construction phase and with consideration of the socio-economic impacts.

• The end of construction phase could have a significant residual social impact due to the decrease in employment. This social impact will be managed by a comprehensive social management plan.

Minor to Moderate

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Significance

Local / regional / National employment

• Increase in employment and indirect employment.

• Increase in economic activity, traffic, etc in small urbanized areas in the vicinity of Balhaf. hindering the future potential for tourist development at Balhaf.

• Local and national employment will be covered under a Recruitment and Training Plan aimed at the progressive Yemenisation of plant operations (See Section 7.3.4)

• Employment and indirect employment generated by the project operations will have a positive effect on the local and regional economy. (and national skills base).

Moderate (positive)

Tourism and Visual resources:

• Visual impact caused by the visual contrast of the site with the natural surroundings.

• Balhaf site not available for tourist development during operational phase

Improper solid waste management could result in degradation of the aesthetic quality of the local environment.

• The camp landfill will be within the perimeter fence of the LNG plant to prevent access to it by wildlife.

• Develop a Waste Management Plan, which establishes the procedures for the storage, collection, waste characterization, segregation, minimization and disposal of waste, including liquids and sludge from the treatment of sanitary and process waste waters (See Section 7.0).

• YLNG support for Coastal Zone management plans for sustainable tourism to the east.

• Residual impact small as can be mitigated (eg, solid waste will be disposed of in controlled areas) and compensated through other measures.

Negligible to Minor

Operation

• Operation maintenance


• Improper solid waste management could result in degradation of the aesthetic quality of the local environment.

• Develop a Waste Management Plan, which establishes the procedures for the storage, collection, waste characterization, segregation, minimization and disposal of waste, including liquids and sludge from the treatment of sanitary and process waste waters (See Section 7.0).

• Based on this plan, solid waste will be disposed of in controlled areas..

Negligible

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Significance

• Visual effect • The site will be cleared and restored. • The site clearance and restoration works should leave the site with minimal visual impacts.

Negligible Decommissioning

• Decrease in employment in the local / regional area.

• Comprehensive plan in place to ensure the smooth closing down of the LNG plant with consideration of the socio-economic impacts.

• The comprehensive decom-missioning plan should ensure that socio-economic impacts are well integrated in the closure.

• Residual impacts include a decrease in employment and indirect employment in the local area.

Moderate

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Appendix 5.1 – Thermal Discharge Model

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APPENDIX 5.1 THERMAL DISCHARGE MODEL

Coral bleaching The coral reef is composed of a symbiosis of animals (zooxantelles) and plants (algae). Sea water temperature increase affects the zooxantelles occurring at the base of coral, which first bleach and then die. The disappearance of coral has a major impact on the rest of the marine biological community, since coral constitute a very important resource (refuge, feeding ground, nursery, etc.).

Coral bleaching is due to the loss of symbiotic algae and/or decrease in chlorophyll pigments in the “zooxanthelles”, which form part of the coral tissues and give it color. Although under natural conditions, coral reefs are generally able to regenerate “zooxanthelles”, it has been demonstrated that under a significant and continuous stress the coral reefs lose this ability and eventually die as a result.

To permit coral growth, water temperature must be maintained in the range of 18-30ºC and not experience long periods of temperature increases from the monthly averages. Water temperature increases in excess of +1ºC from normal monthly averages causes coral bleaching and long-term exposition to water temperature above 40°C causes coral death. The seasonal temperature changes are of short duration that coral can easily accept.

During the last 20 years, several records have been compiled regarding bleaching phenomena in French Polynesia due to a warming process in the surface water related to anomalies caused by the El Niño system. The Acropora and Porites (dominant group at Bal-Haf) were recorded to be one of the most affected coral groups. In an event recorded at Moorea during March-April 1991, an increase in annual sea water temperature of only 0.5 to 1 °C produced the bleaching of 51 % of the colony, with a mortality of 17 % (Gabrié et al., 1995). In another study (Salvat Bernard, pers. comm.), an increase of 1 °C above the monthly mean maximum water temperature resulted in the bleaching and mortality of corals.

It should be noted that the Balhaf corals were badly affected by coral bleaching in 1998 with a major reduction in living coral cover (De Vantier, 2000).

Thermal discharge model A 3D model study (Sogreah, 2005) has been performed to evaluate the rise of temperature at the coral reefs due to the discharge of cooling water at the water outfall. This is based on the implementation of a finite elements 3D thermal model considered as a ‘state of art’ for determining the temperature distribution near a water outfall.

The objectives of the 3D model study are:

• determining the extent of the thermal plume in the eastern bay,

• estimating the vertical extension of the warm water layer over 3 days (after three days the stabilisation of the temperature is obtained)

• providing more accurate details of the distribution of temperature increase at the coral reefs,

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The numerical computations have been performed for two configurations corresponding to one temperature at the outfall Tout (Tout=ambient temperature + ∆T):

• Configuration 1 : increase of temperature increase at the outfall ∆T=+7.8°C, diffuser, normal conditions : water discharge of 60 000 m3/h, chlorine discharge of 1 ml/.

• Configuration 2 :increase of temperature increase at the outfall ∆T=+7.8°C, diffuser, peak conditions : water discharge of 68 000 m3/h, chlorine discharge of 1 ml/l.

These configurations have been studied for three hydro-meteorological conditions, typical of the Bal Haf bay:

• Winter monsoon : NE monsoon,

• Summer monsoon : SW monsoon,

• Summer pure tide regime,

According to the results of the 3D model, some primary conclusions can be drawn:

• The summer pure tide regime appears to be the worst hydro-meteorological condition in respect of the environmental criteria. This is mainly due to the high sea water temperatures and to the hydrodynamics, the later showing main currents directed towards the coastline. In this case, the warm thermal plume extends mainly over the coral reefs affecting particularly the coral reefs located in shallow water depths,

• The increases of temperature are higher for the peak design conditions and the thermal plume spreads over wider sea surfaces but the differences of results between both conditions are not significant.

• The dispersion of the thermal plume along the water column is very limited. Most of the time the warm plume is concentrated at the sea surface at this exception of the summer pure tide regime where the warm plume spreads over the shallow water depths and the coral reefs D and E,

• The thermal plume extends only in the eastern bay so the temperature at the water intake in the western bay is unaffected and the coral reefs in the western bay are protected.

Other results depend on the configuration studied :

Configuration 1: Normal design conditions

The summer pure tide regime is the most severe meteorological conditions in respect of the environmental constraints. This is mainly due to the high sea water temperature and to the main currents directed towards the coastline.

The warm thermal plume spread only within the eastern bay. However, the increases of temperature at the sea surface remain below 30.5°C over the coral reefs.

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The vertical extent of the thermal plume along the water column is more important in this case occurring over the coral reefs D and E (see Figures 1.26 to 1.29). But the increase of temperature at coral reefs if of 0.4°C maximum.

The environmental criteria are then respected for the normal design conditions: diffuser, ∆T=+7.8°C and discharge rate of 60000 m3/h.

Configuration 2: Peak design conditions

As for the normal design conditions and as expected, the summer pure tide regime is the most severe meteorological conditions in respect of the environmental constraints.

The increases of temperature are higher for the peak design conditions and the thermal plume spreads over wider sea surfaces but the differences of results between both conditions are not significant.

The results of this configuration 2 confirm that the summer pure tide regime hydro-meteorological condition is the most severe in respect of the environmental constraints.

For this meteorological case, the increases of temperature at the sea surface can reach up to 31°C. The vertical extent of the thermal plume along the water column affects particularly the coral reefs C, D and E but the increases of temperature are of 0.5°C at the maximum. The environmental criteria are then respected.

The environmental criteria are then respected for the peak design conditions: diffuser, ∆T=+7.8°C and discharge rate of 68000 m3/h.

The dispersion of chlorine is wider for the summer seasons than for the winter season with maximum chlorine concentrations reaching 0,25mg/l at the outfall and 0.08mg/l over the coral reefs. The criterion is then respected.

In conclusion, the results obtained for the normal and peak operating design conditions, show that the increases of temperature at the coral reefs are of 0.5°C at the maximum, so within the design criterion (which is a mean seasonal increase < 1°C)

In general, the increases of temperature do not exceed +0.5°C at the coral reefs in the whole eastern bay and the maximum chlorine concentration remain everywhere below 0.25 mg/l (design criterion for this last parameter is maximum chlorine concentration < 0.25 mg/l at the outfall and close to the coral reefs).

All the environmental criteria are therefore respected, both for the normal and peak operating design conditions, in the design configuration and conditions, namely:

• Outfall layout as shown in figure A.1,

• Three pipelines diffuser, as shown in figure A.3,

• ∆∆∆∆T=+7.8°C and

• discharge rate of 60000 m3/h and 68000 m3/h, respectively.

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Appendix 5.2 – Preliminary Impact Assessment of Upstream Facility

(Marib CPU-KPU) Upgrades

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APPENDIX 5.2 PRELIMINARY IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF UPSTREAM FACILITY (MARIB CPU-KPU) UPGRADES

Description of Significant Aspects CPU Expansion Land Take

The expansion of the CPU will occur within the existing footprint which will not result in any additional land take. Similarly there will be no change in the size of the KPU footprint following upgrades (see Figure 3-3).

Spills (oil, lubricant, chemical)

Chemicals currently present at the CPU and KPU are those associated with routine plant maintenance and operations. These chemicals are expected to be present and in use at the CPU expansion and KPU upgrade. They include:

• Fuels

• Paints

• Lubricants (grease, hydraulic oils)

• Natural gas liquids and condensates

• Solvents

Their use, handling and storage are currently managed thought the implementation of operator control procedures. Incidents involving spills or other emergencies are currently managed through the implementation of spill control and emergency response plans and training. Along with a commitment to implement the best management practices for the handling, storage and use of these materials in accordance with World Bank guidelines, existing operating control procedures, spill control and emergency response plans, and training will be in use during operation of the CPU which will be more fully defined in the ESMS (Section 7.0).

Solid and Hazardous waste

Solid and hazardous waste are currently accumulated at the CPU and KPU including housing, office and kitchen wastes plus those wastes associated with the operation of the plant including:

• Molecular sieves

• Activated carbon

• Filters

• Boiler/Heat exchanger wastes

• Sanitary sewage sludge

• Oily waste - rags, paper

• Clinical waste

• Laboratory wastes - acids, alkalis,

• Solvents

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• Waste oils

• Transformer oils

• Waste paints

• Waste concrete, rubble, brick

Burnable wastes within the list such as paper, trash, used oils, spent chemicals and paints are currently burned in pits at the CPU.

Some solid wastes including scrap lumber and metal are accumulated onsite and periodically removed by the Ministry of Oil and Minerals (MOM). Empty chemical drums are crushed onsite and also removed by the MOM. Construction debris and rubble are typically crushed and reused for road material.

PCBs are also present in onsite transformers at the CPU and KPU but will not be used in any components of the CPU expansion or KPU upgrade.

As part of the CPU expansion and KPU upgrade, studies have been proposed to investigate the best management practices for solid and hazardous wastes including the construction of a dedicated solid waste disposal facility, use of offsite waste disposal vendors, and installation of an onsite incinerator. The selected method(s) of waste management will be more fully presented in the Waste Management Plan of the ESMS.

Water/Wastewater/Stormwater Water

Water is currently produced from approximately 16 wells at the CPU and 10 wells at the KPU. There depths are approximately 300 m. The groundwater production rate from each well is in the range of 130 – 150 barrels per day. Most of the fresh water produced is currently used to treat salt encrustations in producing oil and gas wells. The remainder is consumed as potable water. Water used for drinking is currently treated in a reverse osmosis device to remove the nitrate which exceeds the World Health Organization standard for drinking water. No additional capacity will be required for the construction or operation of the CPU/KPU. The water is fresh but does contain elevated nitrate levels due to upgradient fertilizer use near Marib.

Wastewater

The primary source of wastewater from the CPU and KPU is produced-water which is removed from the oil and gas production stream upon entry to the plants. The produced-water is temporarily stored and then sent to the same subsurface stratum from which it was produced through produced-water disposal wells which were themselves production wells at one time.

The majority of remaining wastewater from the CPU not related to produced-water consists of sanitary wastewater. Sanitary wastewater is collected in a sanitary sewer network connected to living quarters and kitchen facilities and treated in modern onsite sanitary wastewater treatment systems at the CPU and KPU. Treated effluents are currently monitored for applicable sanitary wastewater treatment standards and sent to an onsite evaporation pit lined with concrete and impermeable membrane for final disposition.

During expansion of the CPU, the current strategy is for the construction contractor to provide its own sanitary wastewater treatment facility. Effluents from that facility will be sent to the existing evaporation pit.

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An insignificant increase in sanitary wastewater over current levels is expected during the operation of the CPU expansion and KPU upgrade and will be sent directly to each plant’s existing sanitary wastewater treatment system.

Insignificant increases in the amount of process wastewater in the form of heat exchanger condensates and contact stormwater on certain new equipment will be sent directly to the existing CPU produced-water disposal system.

Stormwater

All stormwater including that which contacts operating equipment is currently conveyed to offsite locations through a series of ditches and conveyances. Contact stormwater in for the CPU expansion will be collected in secondary containment features surrounding certain equipment and sent to the produced-water disposal wells.

Labor (construction, operations)

A total work force at the peak of construction activities of approximately 300 persons is anticipated for the expansion of the CPU and upgrade of the KPU. A workforce increase of approximately 16 persons will be required for operations of the CPU expansion with no increase at the KPU. To house the CPU construction workforce, a temporary camp will be erected within the footprint of the CPU and occupied for a period of approximately 12 months, the duration of the CPU expansion and KPU upgrades.

Accommodations for the workforce necessary to install the upgrades at the KPU will be housed in existing facilities there. No additional camp capacity beyond that which currently exists at the KPU will be required nor for the operations workforce at the CPU.

Air Emissions

Currently, air emissions are not monitored at the CPU and KPU. Equipment which was designed and installed in accordance with international industry standards including those of API, ASME, NFPA are operated and routinely maintained in accordance with manufacturer specifications and those standards. Accordingly, current air emissions are expected to be at the minimal level achievable under current operating conditions.

For the CPU expansion, air emissions from the combustion of gas and diesel will occur during construction activities and are expected to be negligible due to the short constriction duration. To insure this, construction contractor will be required to provide equipment that is well maintained.

During operations emissions sources are expected from the combustion of fuels for motive power, electrical power generation, flaring, and fugitive sources. Estimates for the anticipated emission from these sources are as yet unavailable but will be determined when detailed design commences. The current strategy is to forbid venting directly to the atmosphere and to flare only during upset conditions and during startup. The sector-specific emission guidelines of the World Bank will provide the basis for equipment design specifications. Verification and monitoring of standards will be more fully described in the related plans of the ESMS.

Noise

There are currently no sensitive receptors near the CPU and KPU plants. The nearest community Marib is located approximately 50 km from the CPU and KPU. Accordingly, the cumulative effects of noise from the operation of the CPU expansion and KPU upgrades are negligible.

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A noise program following internationally recognized protocols including the use of hearing protection and hazard communications, however, is in place at the plants for plant employees and visitors. Noise attenuation and monitoring programs will be designed with due regard to World Bank requirements and will be documented in the related plan of the ESMS.

Sensitive Receptors and Environmental and Social Assessment Possible sensitive receptors considered in this preliminary assessment of the CPU/KPU expansion and upgrade induced the following:

• Soil

• Groundwater

• Surface water

• Biological

• Social (resident, worker)

• Atmosphere

These receptors were characterized for the pipeline and Balhaf plant portion of the project and contained in Section 4.0 of the ESIA. The impacts to these receptors due to the construction and operations of the CPU and upgrade of the KPU are summarized in the following table using the assessment criteria described in Section 1.0 of the ESIA.

The greatest potential for impacts, though minor, were found to be those associated with the potential to contaminate groundwater from the mishandling of waste and spills; and emissions to air. A complete verification of this potential will be provided when project details become available. A commitment to mitigate any verified impacts will be provided in the project ESMS.

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Soil Groundwater Surface Water Flora Fauna Residents Workers AtmosphereLand Take no impact - no

increase in CPU/KPU footprint

minor - contamination of groundwater possible due to expanded operation

no impact - surface water absent in area

no impact - no increase in CPU/KPU footprint



N/A N/A

Spills (oil, chemicals)

minor - contamination of soils possible due to spills

minor - contamination of groundwater possible due to leachates





negligible - spill and emergency response programs in place


Solid/hazardous waste

minor - contamination of soils possible due to mismanagement of wastes

minor - contamination of groundwater possible due to mismanagement of wastes







Water/ Wastewater

negligible - wastewater either injected or sent to lined evaporation pond

negligible - wastewater either injected and treated sanitary wastewater sent to lined evaporation pond





N/A negligible - wastewater either injected and treated sanitary wastewater sent to lined evaporation pond

Staffing (construction, operation)

no increase in CPU footprint

negligible - current water supply sufficient


no impact - no significant species present in area



N/A negligible - temporary noise, light

Air Emissions (construction, operation)

N/A N/A no impact - surface water absent in area



negligible - no residents in vicinity of CPU/KPU

negligible - temporary

minor - increased air emission due to expanded operations

Noise N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A negligible - no resident within ____ kilometers

negligible - worker safety program in place.

N/A

Preliminary Summary of Environmental and Social Impacts Form CPU Expansion and KPU Upgrade

Sig

nifi

cant P

roje

ct A

spec

ts

Biological SocialReceptors

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CONTENTS

Section Page Number

6. ANALYSIS OF ALTERNAT IVES.................................................................................. 6-1

6.1. INTRODUCTION...........................................................................................................6-1

6.2. LOCATION OF THE LNG PLANT.................................................................................6-2 6.2.1. Alternative Locations Studied .................................................................................6-2 6.2.2. LNG Plant Site Screening .......................................................................................6-2 6.2.3. Optimisation of Marine Facility Layout....................................................................6-6

6.3. PIPELINE ROUTES.......................................................................................................6-8 6.3.1. Alternative Routes Initially Considered ...................................................................6-8 6.3.2. Comparisons of the Alternative Routes ..................................................................6-8 6.3.3. Selection of the Preferred Route ............................................................................6-9 6.3.4. Selection of Alternative Sections within the Preferred Route.................................6-9

6.4. DESIGN OPTIONS......................................................................................................6-11 6.4.1. Pipeline..................................................................................................................6-11 6.4.2. LNG plant ..............................................................................................................6-11

FIGURES After page n°

Figure 6-1 Map of Alternative LNG plant Sites and associated pipeline routes

6-1

Figure 6-2 Satellite Image of Alternative LNG plant Sites and associated pipeline routes

6-1

Figure 6-3 Alternative Locations of the Material Offloading Facilities 6-5

Figure 6-4 Potential Alternative Pipeline Routes for Balhaf Site 6-6

Figure 6-5 Main-Line Transfer Line Alternative Section Location Map 6-7

Figure 6-6 Main Line – Alternative for the plateau access 6-7

TABLES Table 6-1 Weighting of the Alternative LNG Plant Sites

Table 6-2 Main Line - Transfer Line Environmental Baseline Description Within 1 Km Of ROW Alternative Sections That Were Abandoned

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6. ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES

6.1. INTRODUCTION The YLNG Project is aimed at producing liquefied gas from the gas field of the Marib desert and at exporting it to overseas countries, mainly the Far East market. The present configuration of the Project is the result of more than 10 years of studies and reviews to improve the design of this Project to fulfil this objective while optimizing technical, financial, environmental and socio-economic considerations. This Section 6.0 summarizes the process that led to the adoption of the current LNG plant location and associated pipeline route.

The initial screening of the various alternatives took place in 1995. The rationale was to select a combination of a LNG plant location and pipeline route to transport the gas that would optimize the economies of the Project while minimizing the environmental and socio-economic impacts of the Project. The Marib gas field location being fixed, the various alternatives that were reviewed, considered the available options for an access to the sea and a pipeline route through difficult geographical features such as mountains and narrow valleys with a rapid population growth.

The analysis of alternative process thus started by the selection of a LNG plant location on the sea for production and export of liquefied gas. Then options were studied for the layout of the marine facilities within the selected site. Once the LNG plant site was selected, the most favourable pipeline corridor was chosen amongst the various routes alternatives available for this LNG plant site. Then within the pipeline corridor selected, the detailed route was studied to further minimize the environmental and socio-economic impacts.

43° 44° 45° 46° 47° 48° 49° 50° 51° 52° 53°

43° 44° 45° 46° 47° 48° 49° 50° 51° 52°

19°

18°

17°

16°

15°

14°

13°

19°

18°

17°

16°

15°

14°

13°

2000kmN

1800kmN

1600kmN

1400kmN

400k

mE

600k

mE

800k

mE

200k

mE

400k

mE

600k

mE

54°

12°30'



DELFT, NETHERLANDS

LEGEND

city or town

main road

stream

lake


0 - 200

200 - 400

400 - 1000

1000 - 1600

1600 - 2200

2200 - 2800

> 2800

K P U

BALHAF

C P U

BIRALI

SHUQRA

ADEN OIL

HARBOUR

RAS IMRAN

LITTLE ADEN

MILITARY

LITTLE ADEN

BANDAR SHAYKH

GHUBB DIQNAW

P aa

e

l teu rout

sle

te

( ec

d)io

e

Nim

r rut

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG


MAP OF ALTERNATIVE LNG PLANT SITES AND ASSOCIATED PIPELINE ROUTES

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Ref.

See barscale

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February 2006

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43683552 Figure 6-1

Format

A3

BALHAFBIRALI

SHUQRA

ADEN OIL

HARBOUR

RAS IMRAN

GHUBB DIQNAW

K P UC P U

LITTLE ADEN

MILITARY LITTLE ADEN

BANDAR SHAYKH

Plat au oute

er(sele

tedc

)Nim

i oe

r rut

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG


SATELLITE IMAGE OF ALTERNATIVE LNG PLANT SITESAND ASSOCIATED PIPELINE ROUTES

App’d

Date

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Project No.

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43683552 Figure 6-2

Format

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6.2. LOCATION OF THE LNG PLANT 6.2.1. Alternative Locations Studied

The initial site screening was carried out in 1995. Given the location of the Marib gas field, the closest seas for the location of a LNG plant with export capacity were the Red Sea to the West and the Gulf of Aden to the South (see Figure 6-1).

On the Red Sea, two conflicting parameters were to be considered: the export distance on the sea increases as the plant location is moved to the north and the pipeline route length increases through high mountain ranges as the sites are located further to the south. Ghubb Diknah was found one potential site that would be suitable for these two criteria; it is located at the latitude of Sana’a and the associated pipeline route would follow the existing oil pipeline.

On the Gulf of Aden, the topographical features suitable for a tanker terminal are scarce. Potential sites are either in the Aden area where harbour facilities already exist, or in the Balhaf - Bir Ali – Al Mukalla area, where rocky shores and natural bays are present. Shukra, an intermediate potential location between Balhaf and Aden, was also considered, for its advantage of having the shortest pipeline route. The site of Balhaf is the first location east of Shukra with a natural bay and a cape, as sandy shore otherwise dominates this section (see Satellite Image on Figure 6-2).

This study led to a pre-selection of eight potential sites for further studies:

LOCATION POTENTIAL SITES FOR THE LNG PLANT

On the Red Sea: • GHUBB DIKNAH

On the Gulf of Aden, in the vicinity of Aden:

• RAS IMRAN

• LITTLE ADEN (MILITARY BASE)

• LITTLE ADEN (BANDAR SHAYKH)

• ADEN OIL HARBOUR

On the Gulf of Aden, Between Aden and Al Mukalla:

• SHUKRA

• BALHAF

• BIR ALI

6.2.2. LNG Plant Site Screening

In June 1995, General Gas Corporation and Total carried out a four-day survey of these pre-selected sites, followed by preliminary comparative studies. The selection process comprised a weighting criteria appraisal. The main criteria that were considered can be grouped into the following categories:

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• Marine natural conditions for a tanker terminal: marine accessibility and safety for LNG carrier (capacity of 125,000 to 135,000 m3 needed); water depth (minimum required 14.5 m); wave, current and wind conditions; need for breakwater; need for dredging;

• Onshore suitability for a LNG plant: available space (110 to 130 ha needed for the plant and 80 to 100 ha for camps); natural hazards (earthquake, flooding); site preparation requirements; geotechnical foundation conditions;

• Pipeline route associated with the LNG plant site (length and difficulties)

• Socio-economic and environmental aspects at each location.

In addition, safety requirements were taken into consideration: an exclusion zone without public presence of 300 m and a buffer zone for potential accidents of 1800 m around the plant fence. Although a certain degree of remoteness was preferred for safety reasons and to minimize nuisances, the plant should be located in an area where some infrastructure is available (roads, airport).

The selection process that was followed in 1995 was re-evaluated for the present ESIA, to incorporate technical as well as environmental and socio-economic factors. The following Table 6-1 summarizes the result of this weighting for the eight alternative sites:

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TABLE 6-1 – WEIGHTING OF THE ALTERNATIVE LNG PLANT SITES Site (listed from West to East)

Marine criteria Onshore criteria Pipeline Route Environment - Socio-

economic

Score

Weight weight 1 weight 0.5 weight 1 weight 1.5 Max 12

Ghubb Diknah 2 (long shipping

route, no need of a breakwater and

possibly no dredging))

1 (extensive

earthwork and difficult

foundations)

1 (long and difficult, crossing seismic

faults) 440 km

3 (desert area)

7.5

Ras Imran 1 (strong wind and high volumes of

dredging)

2 (possibly pile foundations)

1 (long and difficult)

392 km

2 (30 km from

Aden, relocation of

villages )

6.0

Little Aden (Military Base)

1 (probable

breakwater and dredging required)

2 (large earthwork)


392 km

0 (site reserved by the Army)

3.0

Little Aden (Bandar Shaykh)

2 (probable

breakwater)

3 (good foundation

conditions)


392 km

1 (next to high

land occupancy)

6.0

Aden Oil Harbour 2 (natural shelter but dredging required)

0 (limited space

available)


392 km

1 (next to busy

existing harbour facilities)

4.5

Shukra 0 (strong wind and waves, need of

breakwater)

2 (unknown soil

conditions)

2 (short route,

potential difficulties through a steep mountain range)

305 km

2 (village of Shukra)

6.0

Balhaf 3 (Natural shelter, no dredging needed

due to deep bathymetry)

2 (good rock

foundation, but site preparation requires large excavation)

3 (short route in desert area, no

major difficulties ) 325 km

2 (unoccupied

land, temporary

fishing, corals )

9.0

Bir Ali 2 (dredging needed)

2 (unknown soil

conditions)

1 (long and difficult past Balhaf, along

the coastal mountains )

370 km

1 (large

population of Bir Ali, fishing)

5.5

Notes: criteria are scaled from 0 (not acceptable) to 3 (most suitable).

In Yellow: sites for which YLNG undertook complementary data acquisition and investigations (geotechnical and marine data acquisition)

In Red: Balhaf (selected site)

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The table allows a comparison of the potential candidates while highlighting the main drawbacks of some of the sites considered.

On the Red Sea, GHUBB DIKNAH had favourable conditions for a port, since no breakwater and dredging were required and the port availability would have been higher than at any other site. However the shipping route is longer than for the sites on the Gulf of Aden. The site is less favourable for LNG production, due to higher air and sea water temperature. The ground conditions for the construction of the plant were found by the geotechnical investigations to be poor: extensive earthwork was anticipated. The ground elevation is low and the poor quality of the surface soils would have required the removal of 2-3 m of superficial sand and shell/coral, and no quarry of granular material for concrete was available near the site; Deep pile foundations would be required with special protection against high carbonate content of the soil.

For this site, the pipeline route, although it follows the existing oil pipeline, is longer and more difficult than the other sites on the Gulf of Aden. It would cross high mountain ranges with known seismic activity.

On the Gulf of Aden, the sites in the vicinity of Aden were not considered further with the exception of RAS IMRAN, as the presence of the existing Aden harbour and associated cities and villages was a major drawback for safety and potential socio-economic impacts. Amongst these sites, ADEN OIL HARBOUR had the most sensitive socio-economic environment. BANDAR SHAYKH does not provide sufficient space for the LNG plant. ADEN MILITARY BASE site is also restricted in space and is reserved by the Army for other future developments. It also requires dredging and construction of a breakwater.

Located 30 km west of Aden, RAS IMRAN had more space available; however villages and a fishery would have had to be relocated. The marine conditions were not favourable for a tanker terminal which would have required a large volume of dredging. Wind speeds were the highest of the investigated sites. Onshore, the LNG plant would have required extensive backfilling and deep pile foundations.

East of Aden toward Al Mukalla, the sea shore is not favourable for a LNG terminal, being mostly sandy beaches. The site of SHUKRA had the advantage of presenting the shortest pipeline route and there was enough space available, although close to the village of Shukra. However, it had poor marine conditions for a port. It would have required a large breakwater to protect the terminal from high winds originating from the mountains.

BALHAF is the first site east of Aden that was found suitable for the LNG plant and terminal. It is naturally protected from east and south waves, but exposed to southwest waves. However, oceanographic studies have shown that the terminal was feasible with no breakwater and no dredging. Its remoteness from Aden requires the construction of an air strip and a cargo berth (Material Offloading Facility - MOF) for the delivery of equipment to the plant. Corals were known to be found from the cape of BALHAF eastward to the east of BIR ALI, but they had not been studied at the time of the site selection. However, being on the western limit of the area of coral presence, it was thought to be less impacting than the site of BIR ALI located within this coral area (see discussion on Section 5.0 and Figure 5-9). Onshore, the area of BALHAF was devoid of permanent population; however, temporary fishermen were using the site as a shelter for seasonal fishing. Foundation conditions were observed to be favourable given the outcrop of basalt.

BIR ALI was discarded compared to BALHAF as it provided no greater advantages than BALHAF; it has a growing population and significant socio-economic activity. It is also a

ALTERNATIVE LOCATION OFTHE MATERIAL OFFLOADING FACILITIES

Title

Location

Client

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43683552 Figure 6-3

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A4YEMEN

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Alternative 1A

Alternative 1B

Alternative 2

Alternative 3A

Alternative 3B(selected)

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location for fishing activities and it has significant biodiversity including an exceptional crater fringed with mangroves. And finally, the pipeline route is longer than that of BALHAF.

Detailed studies were conducted for three sites, GHUBB DIKNAH, RAS IMRAN and BALHAF. Based on these additional surveys and studies, the comparison of the three selected sites resulted in the final site selection of BALHAF, which offers, with the revised layout, the best technical compromise with minimal dredging and the lowest capital investment. It also offers environmental and socio-economic conditions that were recognized acceptable by the Yemeni Government. The site is intended to be classified as a “General Use Zone” within the forthcoming implementation of the Coastal Zoning Management Plan for the Gulf of Aden.

6.2.3. Optimisation of Marine Facility Layout

Once the Balhaf site was selected for the LNG plant and terminal, YLNG undertook detailed oceanographic studies that allowed an optimum layout of the various marine facilities of the Project (jetty, sea water intake and outfall, MOF).

These studies were aimed at reducing the potential impact of the terminal on the marine environment. This was a determining criteria that led to consider Balhaf site as more favourable than the other sites - because it avoids the need for a breakwater, it minimizes the dredging and reduces the disturbance on currents, sand transport and deposition.

Section 5.0 reported the various design options of this Project, such as the design of the cooling water outfall, the design of the MOF and the construction measures that were adopted to protect the marine ecosystem. The present section 6.0 addresses the alternative layout options that were studied at the early stages of the Project and the rationale for selecting the current layout of the LNG plant and marine terminal.

The rationale for the design of the current layout is as follows:

Avoidance of breakwater and dredging: the oceanographic studies have concluded that locating the jetty head and the jetty trestle for the LNG carriers perpendicular to the coast in water depth greater than 15 m would be optimum for navigation criteria, while not requiring a breakwater against the dominant waves from the south-southwest and avoiding any dredging.

Minimizing sand transport: the layout of the marine facilities was studied in a manner such that no element is positioned in the area of active sand transport, particularly to the northwest of the Balhaf bay. Similarly the water intake is in the western bay and the outfall in the eastern bay in order to minimize circulation of sand between the two features.

Minimizing the impact on coral: the location of the MOF results from a selection amongst various alternatives, that minimises impact on the coral, as described in more detailed below.

Figure 6-3 shows the five alternative locations that were studied for the MOF:

1. Alternative 1A north towards the sandy beach

2. Alternative 1B between the jetty trestle and alternative 1A

3. Alternative 2 north of the bay

4. Alternative 3A south of the bay with a north-northwest berth orientation

5. Alternative 3B south of the bay with a northwest berth orientation

43° 44° 45° 46° 47° 48° 49° 50° 51° 52° 53°

43° 44° 45° 46° 47° 48° 49° 50° 51° 52°

19°

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17°

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14°

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19°

18°

17°

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2000kmN

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DELFT, NETHERLANDS

LEGEND

city or town

main road

stream

lake


0 - 200

200 - 400

400 - 1000

1000 - 1600

1600 - 2200

2200 - 2800

> 2800

K P U

BAL HAF

LNG

PLANT SITE

C P U

NIMIR ROUTE

PLATEAU ROUTEMAIN LINE

PREFERRED ROUTE

NIMIR ROUTEWEST ALTERNATIVE

ROUTE

NIMIR ROUTEEAST ALTERNATIVE

ROUTE

TRANSFERLINE

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG

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POTENTIAL ALTERNATIVE PIPELINE ROUTES FOR BALHAF SITE

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The studies of these alternative locations took places in 1995, 1997, 2000, 2004 and 2005. The last study of 2005 resulted in the selection of alternative 3B as the optimum location for the MOF.

Alternatives 1A and 1B to the north are not advisable. They do not allow a safe distance to the flare, they would require extensive sand dredging (in the order of 4 millions m3), with negative impact on the turbidity and on the beach and sand dune stability. For instance, a wharf at that location would induce sedimentation due to littoral drift from west to east and sheltering effect of its breakwater. This sedimentation would have caused subsequent erosion further northwest and with time would have affected the stability of the beach and sand dunes and its associated ecosystem.

Alternative 2 north of the Balhaf bay was also discarded, because it would have required relocating the jetty and the water intake differently in the flat sandy bed, with longer jetty trestle and longer cooling water intake. This layout would have constricted the turning area of the ships with lower safety margin. This alternative would also have required both construction and maintenance dredging in a sea bed composed of fine silty sand, with increased turbidity.

The two alternatives 3A and 3B south of the bay offer better technical advantages. They require small volume of dredging in coarser material, thus less prone to turbidity. Furthermore no maintenance dredging is needed. This location optimizes the plant layout in terms of safety distances and ISPS security requirements. Amongst these two alternatives, Alternative 3B was finally selected because it presents a lower impact on the corals of area D than alternative 3A.

DUNE FIELD

FLAT DESERT

PLATEAU

COASTAL PLAIN

GULF OF ADEN

15°

15°30'

46°30'46° 47°30'

N

47°

46°30'46°

15°

15°30'

0 10 20 30 km

SCALE 1/750,000

5

48°

14°

14°30'

47°30' 48°

14°30'

BIR'ALI

BALHÃF

JEBEL AD DAHLA

KPU

CPUT ANS ER NE

RF LI

IMA

N LINE

WADI MAHYID

WA

DI

AS

H

RW

AD

I A

FA

D

WA

DI S

AL

MU

N

AI

WD

YFAAH

MA

'

SHI ' BAYN

WA

JORDAN

DI

LEGEND

PIPELINE PREFERRED ROUTE/KILOMETRIC POINT (KP)

ALTERNATIVE PIPELINE SECTION (ABANDONED)

160

160

150

140

130

120

110

100

90

80

70

60

50

40

30

20

10

310

300

290

280

270

260

250

240

230

220210

200

180170

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10

20

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG

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43683552 Figure 6-5

Format

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MAIN LINE - TRANSFER LINE ALTERNATIVE SECTION LOCATION MAP

MAIN LINEALTERNATIVE FOR THE PLATEAU ACCESS

THE DIRECT ACCESS TO THE PLATEAU (LEFT) WAS ABANDONED AND A LONGER ROUTE WAS

ADOPTED THROUGH THE CANYON TO THE RIGHT

THE ACCESS TO THE PLATEAU THROUGH A CANYON WITH A LESS VISIBLE IMPACT

Title

Location

Client

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

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Ref.

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43683552 Figure 6-6

Format

A4YEMEN

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6.3. PIPELINE ROUTES 6.3.1. Alternative Routes Initially Considered

For the selected LNG plant site at Balhaf, two main alternative routes and two subalternatives of one of them for the Main Line from CPU to Balhaf were initially identified and evaluated by YLNG. These alternative routes are presented in Figure 6-4, and are described as follows:

• Nimir routes :

- Nimir route base case - from CPU/KPU straight to Ataq through high dunes for the first 50 km, through desert to Ataq, and then along the Nimir pipeline.

- Nimir route east alternative - an eastern alternative to the above option to avoid the high dunes.

- Nimir route west alternative - a western alternative to the above option to avoid the high dunes.

• Plateau route - from KPU straight through the desert to the Mikrab area, ascending the plateau toward the Al Khalif area, and then descending along Wadi Salmoon, and straight through the semi-desertic area to Balhaf.

These routes were identified and evaluated during two field surveys conducted by YLNG in 1996. Both surveys included representatives of GGC, E&P, MOMR, Hunt, TOTAL and TECHNIP/ BECHTEL.

6.3.2. Comparisons of the Alternative Routes

The principal findings of the field surveys can be summarized as follows:

Nimir Routes The alternative routes along the existing Nimir pipeline and their alternative sub-portions were confirmed to be technically feasible; however these routes would have been located through populated wadis and close to fast growing cities. The routes could avoid Azzan by passing along Wadi Habban, and avoid Ataq to the north-east by crossing straight through the high dunes to KPU, instead of CPU.

Difficulties were expected related in hilly and rocky sections. At several locations, the existing Nimir pipeline ROW is very narrow and blasting would have been required to lay a new pipeline. This would have presented risks to the existing line.

Plateau Route The plateau route was envisaged to avoid the populated Wadi Habban and Wadi Jirdan. The principal difficulty for this route is ascending and descending the Plateau. On the flat top of the Plateau, construction of the 60 kilometer pipeline route was assessed as not presenting significant difficulties. Then the route reaches the coastal plain desert where it passes along sand dunes. To reach this desert, the original route followed the track along the edge of the Wadi Salmoon down to the village Hajel Salmoon, and subsequently eastward along the existing track. Subsequently, the route was moved to the north of Wadi Salmoon to avoid the villages.

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6.3.3. Selection of the Preferred Route

Based on an assessment of the environmental factors of each route (geology, water resources, biology, socio-economics, archaeology and visual impacts) the Plateau route was considered potentially less impacting the environment and the socio-economy of the area than the Nimir routes. In addition, the Nimir route would have had some technical difficulties – for example blasting could be required at several narrow points along the Nimir pipeline, potentially causing pipeline integrity problems for the existing line. The Plateau route also requires blasting but in the non-populated plateau area. The two difficulties of the Plateau route are the ascent and descent from the Plateau; technical options were studied and found to be feasible.

Finally, the overall length of the route along the Nimir pipeline is longer than the route length via the Plateau by about 5 kilometers.

6.3.4. Selection of Alternative Sections within the Preferred Route

Subsequent to the selection of the preferred route, alternative sections within the preferred route were identified in an iterative process. These alternative sections are shown in Figure 6-5. Preferred sections were selected based on engineering, economic, and environmental considerations (Table 6-2). The environmentally sensitive areas avoided by the preferred sections are described below:

• Access to the plateau, KP 130: two options were studied (see Figure 6-6), the first one would be a direct access at the western end of the cliff, the second would ascend through an existing canyon to the south of the plateau. The second alternative, although longer, was chosen because it involves less excavation and thus less potential for soil erosion and reduces the visual impact of the pipeline in this area;

• Exit of the plateau, KP 200: the route follows a canyon to descend the first half of the plateau and then for the second half, two alternatives were studied: the first one where the pipeline would remain at the foot of the upper cliff and at the top of the scree slopes, and a second one where it would be located in flatter slopes at the lower part. The second alternative was found to be less exposed to rock column toppling risk and to have less cut and fill and thus was preferred in order to reduce the risk of soil erosion and instability.

• Between approximately KP 130 to KP 170 the preferred route avoids Wadi Jirdan sensitive water resources and a sensitive socio-economic land use area;

• Between approximately KP 210 to KP 230 the preferred route avoids Wadi Salmoon and Wadi Mahyid sensitive flora and archaeological areas.

• Between KP 290 to KP 310 on the approach of Balhaf, the pipeline route was relocated following a field survey in November 2004 to avoid sensitive shallow groundwater wells and associated cultivated parcels.

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ENVIRONMENTAL BASELINE DESCRIPTION WITHIN 1 KM OF ROW ALTERNATIVE SECTIONS THAT WERE ABANDONED

Kilometer (KP) Geology /Soils Water Resources Biological Socio-economics Archaeology

129 - 192

Alternative Route Jirdan (abandoned)

Quaternary slopes along Wadi Jirdan. Gravel and limestones blocks.

Potential flash flooding at Wadi Jirdan crossing (PMF of 1,313 m3/s).

Low productivity upper aquifer, but productive aquifer deeper (>100m).

Large Wadis Cutting Mountains (WM) vegetation unit.

Large forest of Anogeissus bentii, one endemism of South Yemen and possibly the largest trees in Yemen, at KP 154 and KP 159.

Numerous small villages and cultivated terraces along the Wadi. Several water collection systems (i.e. reservoirs)

Rich for different periods: Ancient Pre-Islamic agricultural practices, Neolithic to Bronze Age structures (hills).

205 - 230

Alternative route Wadi Salmoon and Wadi Mahyid (abandoned)

Flat area consisting of alluvial terraces overlaying Cretaceous sandstone. Soil with alternation of sandy gravel and sandstone.

Crossing of the Wadi at several locations. Potential flash flood ranging from 952 m3/h to 1,035 m3/h.

Poorly productive shallow aquifers used by local inhabitants. Water with medical properties.

Large Wadi Cutting Mountain (WM) vegetation unit. Endangered and endemic flora species: Livistonia carinensis, Anogeissus bentii, Anisotes trisulcus; Pulicaria cylindrica, Heliotropium fartakense, and Ochrademus arabicus.

Isolated houses along the Wadi. One village about 2 km from pipeline. It receives many local visitors attracted by the medical properties of the water in an existing groundwater well.

.

Several archaeological sites identified, tombs and cairns connected by stone walls

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6.4. DESIGN OPTIONS During the design period that has been uninterrupted since 1995, YLNG conducted numerous engineering studies to update the Project with more stringent standards and environmental requirements. A detailed description of the Project is provided in Section 3.0. The present Section highlights the key design features that were incorporated into the Project for the protection of the environment and the respect of human health and safety.

6.4.1. Pipeline

The design of the pipeline comprises the following elements:

• The pipeline is buried and the wall thickness was designed for optimum safety. Block valves will be installed at an average distance of 25 km

• Special construction techniques will be implemented for agricultural land and wadi crossings, for instance increased depth of cover.

6.4.2. LNG plant

The main design options of the LNG plant to improve environmental protection and human health and safety performance are the following:

Atmospheric emissions:

Atmospheric emission meeting standards were developed for the Project and derived from the World Bank standard, by upgrading the original design of 1997 with the following design improvements:

• No flaring during normal conditions

• Reduced NOx emission burners on all gas turbines, except on safety emergency motors

• Stack height increased to enhance dispersion

The resulting Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emission intensity is approximately 32.8 kt/Mboe, lower than similar LNG plants elsewhere in the world.

Water and wastewater control:

Fresh water will be supplied by a desalination unit, thus in line with the management of groundwater resources of Yemen and the need to avoid depletion of aquifers.

The design allows for segregated and controlled collection and discharge of wastewater effluents and cooling water meeting World Bank discharge standards.

Waste control:

In addition to waste management (see Section 7.0), the design includes provisions for:

• Carbon beds for mercury removal, even though no mercury is expected from the gas to be processed;

• Waste incinerator for domestic waste.

Chemical storage:

Chemicals will be properly managed and stored on contained areas. Section 7.0 details the management plan that will be developed for the risk associated with potential chemical spills.

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CONTENTS

Section Page Number

7. ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM.................................... 7-1

7.1. KEY ELEMENTS ...........................................................................................................7-1 7.1.1. Objectives......................................................................................................................7-1 7.1.2. Yemen LNG HSE Policy .........................................................................................7-2 7.1.3. Relevant Laws and Regulations .............................................................................7-3 7.1.4. Environmental and Social Management Organization ...........................................7-3

7.2. MANAGEMENT OF THE ENVIRONMENT ..................................................................7-5 7.2.1. Operational Control of Environmental Impacts.......................................................7-5 7.2.1.1. Waste Management Plan....................................................................................7-5 7.2.1.2. Water conservation ...........................................................................................7-10 7.2.1.3. Wastewater Management .................................................................................7-11 7.2.1.4. Hazardous Chemicals Management.................................................................7-12 7.2.1.5. Noise management ...........................................................................................7-13 7.2.1.6. Radiations Management. ..................................................................................7-14 7.2.2. Emergency Response Plan ..................................................................................7-14 7.2.2.1. Emergency Pipeline Repair System .................................................................7-15 7.2.2.2. Emergency Response Plans.............................................................................7-15 7.2.3. Training Program...................................................................................................7-16 7.2.4. Preservation and restoration .................................................................................7-17 7.2.4.1. Preservation of Archaeological Sites ................................................................7-17 7.2.4.2. Biological Preservation......................................................................................7-17 7.2.4.3. Restoration after Decommissioning..................................................................7-17 7.2.5. Monitoring..............................................................................................................7-18 7.2.5.1. Monitoring Of Marine and Terrestrial Environment ..........................................7-18 7.2.5.2. Air Quality Monitoring ........................................................................................7-18 7.2.5.3. Water Quality Monitoring...................................................................................7-18 7.2.5.4. Coral Reef Monitoring .......................................................................................7-18 7.2.5.5. Reclamation Monitoring ....................................................................................7-19 7.2.5.6. Monitoring of Emissions and Discharges .........................................................7-23 7.2.5.7. Air Emissions Monitoring...................................................................................7-23 7.2.5.8. Water Discharge Quality Monitoring.................................................................7-23 7.2.6. Environmental Auditing .........................................................................................7-28 7.2.7. Environment Management Review.......................................................................7-29 7.2.8. Environment Management Reporting to Authorities ............................................7-29

7.3. SOCIO-ECONOMIC ACTIONS – PROJECT SELECTION AND MANAGEMENT....7-30 7.3.1. Introduction............................................................................................................7-30 7.3.1.1. Statement of YLNG’s Social Principles ............................................................7-30 7.3.1.2. Refugees and Immigrants Policy......................................................................7-32 7.3.2. Socio-Economic Management Plans (Summary of key issues) ..........................7-32 7.3.2.1. Community Relations Management Plan .........................................................7-32 7.3.2.2. Construction Camp Management Plan.............................................................7-33 7.3.2.3. Transport Management Plan ............................................................................7-33 7.3.2.4. Economic Loss Compensation Plan .................................................................7-34

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7.3.2.5. Recruitment, Employment and Training Plan ...................................................7-34 7.3.2.6. Suppliers and Contractors Policy......................................................................7-35 7.3.2.7. Community Infrastructure and Utilities Plan .....................................................7-35 7.3.2.8. Tourism Management .......................................................................................7-36 7.3.3. Preliminary Community Investment Strategy .......................................................7-36 7.3.4. Public Consultation and Disclosure Plan..............................................................7-40 7.3.5. SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT RESOURCING...............................................7-53

FIGURES

After page n°

Figure 7-1 Conceptual Framework for YLNG Sustainable Development Activities

7-36

TABLES

Table 7.1 Summary of Waste Storage, Treatment and Disposal Methods during LNG plant and pipeline construction and operation.

Table 7.2 Main Line Transfer Line Summary of Environment Monitoring During Construction and Operation

Table 7.3 LNG Plant and Camps Summary of Environment Monitoring during Construction and Operation

Table 7.4 Main Line Transfer Line Summary of Process Monitoring for Emissions and Discharges during Construction and Operation

Table 7.5 LNG Plant Summary of Process Monitoring for Emissions and Discharges during Operation

Table 7.6 Outline of Activities during the ESIA

Table 7.7 Stakeholder Group Mapping by Issue

Table 7.8 Preliminary Timeline for Key YLNG Public Disclosure Events 2006

Table 7.9 Key Consultation / Disclosure Milestones in the Development of YLNG’s ESIA / PCDP / ESMP

Table 7.10 Key to PCDP Activities and Milestones Chart

Table 7.11 YLNG SD Resourcing

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7. ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

This section presents the Environmental and Social Management System (ESMS) requirements for Yemen LNG which will be developed further and shall be implemented during the Construction and Operations phases.

Health and Safety issues are not addressed here and can be found in YLNG’s Health and Safety Plans and Policies.

7.1. KEY ELEMENTS 7.1.1. Objectives

Sound ESMS facilitate minimization of the Project impacts and integration of environmental protection into the Project taking into account societal resources. To this end, the ESMS shall address all the ESIA requirements, for both the Construction and Operation phases of the Project.

The ESMS shall cover the following aspects:

Environment:

• Operational control of impacts

- Solid Waste Management;

- Water Conservation and Wastewater Management;

- Atmospheric Emission Control and Air Quality Management.

- Chemicals Management;

- Noise Management;

- Environmental Preservation and Restoration;

• Training;

• Monitoring of the marine and terrestrial Environment

• Monitoring of emissions and discharges and;

• Environmental Auditing.

Social aspects:

• Socio-economic Management.

Environmental and Social Management System (ESMS): the primary objective is to provide a set of consistent managerial tools which will enable YLNG to clearly identify the environmental and social impacts of each activity and to systematically implement cost effective measures which respond to, monitor and control environmental and social performance. Having identified the environmental and social impacts of the pipelines and of the LNG plant, the following are necessary to achieve these goals:

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• Monitoring Programs: Quantitative measurement of discharges; emissions and waste, and assessment of ambient environmental quality (terrestrial and marine) to evaluate whether YLNG´s commitments to environmental protection are being met, and to provide data for auditing.

• Monitoring social impact is designed to:

- Monitor the implementation of the mitigation plan and the development initiatives supported by the company, using indicators identified in the baseline study.

- Identify deviations from the proposed mitigation measures.

- Monitor the impact observed and compare it with forecasts.

- Identify any unexpected impacts such as those related to the complexity of cultural factors and local socio-economic systems.

- Maintain control over compliance by contractors and service providers with the mitigation measures.

In order to establish credibility and create a relationship of trust between the Project stakeholders and the affected community, it would be beneficial if their representatives were included in the monitoring processes.

• Environmental and Social Auditing: To evaluate operational observance of procedures, regulations and objectives. This will involve both general environmental and social management as well as specific technical aspects, and shall be performed periodically. This Audit will give indications about necessary corrective actions).

In addition, the ESMS is intended to fully satisfy the requirements of all relevant policies and laws of Yemen and the international community and those of YLNG. Corrective actions shall be taken, as necessary, to improve environmental and social performance to meet these requirements.

The ESMS focuses on verifying that the mitigation measures proposed to minimize the environmental and social impacts identified in the ESIA are adequately implemented during the Construction and Operation phases of the facilities. Environmental and social monitoring and auditing, and the subsequent site reclamation are included in the ESMS.

The ESMS identifies the environmental and social issues which require development of operational procedures to control, for example, emissions to air and water, waste management, and restoration. These operational procedures will address regulatory and YLNG environmental and social requirements, and shall include monitoring and reporting.

The ESMS functions according to a set of management procedures, to be developed before or during the Construction and Operations, that define environmental and social management responsibilities, objectives and targets, training requirements, reporting requirements and an internal auditing schedule.

7.1.2. Yemen LNG HSE Policy

YLNG HSE Policy is to conduct all the Project activities in a responsible manner that protects the environment, and the health and safety of employees, customers, contractors and the public. This policy includes compliance with continuous improvement of performance, prevention of pollution of marine and terrestrial environments and respect of the environmental regulations.

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7.1.3. Relevant Laws and Regulations

YLNG is committed to comply with Yemen's laws and regulations pertaining to this Project (see Section 2.0). The main relevant Yemen laws include:

• The Environmental Protection Law (EPL) n°26 of 1995; and

• Law n°11 for the Protection of the Marine Environment, 1993, amended by Law n°16 of 2004.

In fact, YLNG's policies, objectives, guidelines, and practices will exceed Yemen's regulatory requirements.

Development of the ESMS shall take into account the internationally recognized procedures and standards are described in Section 2.0.

7.1.4. Environmental and Social Management Organization

An environmental and social management organization will be established to effectively implement the managerial tools of the ESMS, thus enabling YLNG to systematically implement cost effective measures to minimize environmental and social impacts of the Project and integrate corrective measures into the Project. The basis of success will be a streamlined organization which has clear lines of authority that avoid conflict of interest with the construction and operations organizations. The key positions in this organization are noted below.

During the Project phase (engineering, construction and commissioning phases):

The Project HSE Department will be headed by a QHSE Manager who will have the overall responsibility for Quality, Health, Safety and Environmental management; reporting directly to the highest level (Yemen LNG Project Manager).

He will be assisted by an Environment Manager in charge of all environmental activities and implementation of the ESIA requirements. He will have responsibility for implementation of the ESMS for Construction activities.

On each construction site, a Site HSE Superintendent will be nominated, in charge of the supervision of all constructions activities and implementation of the Contractors Environmental Management Plans. He is also particularly in charge of the implementation of the Waste and Chemicals Management Plans.

On each work site he is assisted by a Field Environmental Supervisor, with the overall responsibility of maintaining strict adherence to the provisions of the ESMS.

In addition, there is a corporate organization based in Yemen comprising a Corporate HSE Manager and a Sustainable Development Manager. Both of these positions report directly to the YLNG General Manager. These are corporate roles involving e.g. Relationships with the Yemeni authorities and the development of the Corporate Policies and Strategies. In addition, the sustainable Development Manager is responsible for coordinating all inputs which contribute to YLNG social responsibilities.

During the Operational phase:

The HSE Department will be headed by an HSE Manager reporting to the Yemen LNG General Manager.

He will be assisted by an Environment Manager in charge of the implementation of the Environment Management System, and to provide assistance to the operational teams.

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There will also be separate teams responsible for Operational Safety, Health and Safety engineering.

On site, the Site Operations Manager will have the overall responsibility to ensure the adherence to the Yemen LNG HSE policy. He will be assisted by the site HSE entity including the Environment Supervisor.

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7.2. MANAGEMENT OF THE ENVIRONMENT Environment Management Plans will be implemented at Construction and Operation phases in order to develop and implement the Yemen LNG Environment Policy and manage all its environment aspects and impacts. These include all the resources within the organization necessary to meet the objectives and implement the environmental action plan, and will be based on the classical “Plan Do Check Act” principle.

For the Construction Phase (Engineering, Construction and Commissioning), plans and procedures will be produced by YLNG in consultation with each of the EPC Contractors in accordance with YLNG Requirements and Procedures. The construction plans and procedures will be implemented by the EPC Contractor and YLNG, as appropriate. Implementation of the relevant construction plans and procedures by the EPC Contractors will be supervised and monitored by YLNG

For the Operation Phase, these plans and procedures shall be produced and implemented by YLNG.

The ESIA has allowed the identification of the environmental aspects and impacts of the planned construction and operations activities. Mitigation measures have been identified in order to minimise the impacts and ensure compliance with regulatory and international standards.

Below the main components of these plans are shown:

• Impacts of activities and mitigation measures for environment protection including management of solid wastes, water conservation, waste waters, chemicals disposal, noise, and atmospheric emission;

• Training;

• Preservation and restoration of environment;

• Monitoring and control, auditing;

• Environmental management system review.

7.2.1. Operational Control of Environmental Impacts

7.2.1.1. Waste Management Plan

Goals and Objectives

The goals and objectives of waste management are:

• Minimize generation of waste material by judicious use of raw material, and reuse or recycle material, when feasible.

• Treat or dispose of wastes such that the disposal activity and the treated waste have minimal impact on the surrounding environment.

• Promote awareness of and adherence to proper waste management procedures by site workers.

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The Waste Management Plan (WMP) shall include basic procedures for complying with statutory and good practice requirements relating to the production, handling, transportation, storage, treatment and disposal of waste. Wastes which would be generated during the course of the Project shall be identified during the initial phase of the Project, and procedures shall be developed and implemented to ensure appropriate handling of these wastes.

Accordingly, a WMP shall be developed which establishes the procedures for the storage, collection and disposal of waste, including liquids and sludge from the treatment of sanitary and process waste waters. The purpose of the WMP is to ensure that waste disposal is carried out in an environmentally responsible manner. The Waste Management Plan will include a system of establishing waste management records which will include the types and volumes of wastes generated during each project activity.

All wastes will be categorized and segregated into one of the following classes:

• Hazardous Wastes - Wastes which are corrosive, explosive, toxic, oxidizing, etc. which constitute a high degree of hazard to public health or the environment.

• A specific chapter will deal with Medical Wastes.

• Non-Hazardous Wastes - Wastes which are not hazardous but are biologically or chemically active in the environment.

• Inert Wastes - Wastes which are not biologically or chemically active in the environment.

The Waste Management Plan will include a strategy for managing wastes based on the hierarchical principles of “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Recover”. The Ministry of Water and the Environment will provide assistance to identify recycling and treatment waste facilities.

Implementation of such principles will result in the reduction of residual waste that ultimately requires disposal. The consequences of such a plan will be:

• Segregation of waste streams to optimize reuse and recycling,

• Where necessary, storage of a safe and controlled residual waste, and

• Residual waste disposal through incineration.

Waste Treatment and Disposal Methods

This section addresses the potential sources, exposure, concerns, and management issues for each main category of waste expected to be generated during construction and operation of the pipelines and the LNG plant. Table 7-2 provides a summary of the expected wastes and the likely storage, treatment and disposal methods.

Balhaf Dredging Waste

Sea bed sediments may have to be dredged for the construction of the Material Offloading Facility. Dredged material will include basalt rock and sediments. A study has been undertaken to determine an appropriate offshore disposal area for the dredged sediments. The criteria for the choice of an offshore disposal area include an area where the sediments do not come back to shore and damage coral reefs, an area in which the deposited sediments are not easily re-suspended under wave and current action and an area that is as close as possible to the dredging area in order to limit costs. The disposal area is located in water depths of 150 m.

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Soils and Rock (Spoils)

Soil and rock shall be segregated and reused where appropriate for fill material (e.g., rock could be used for construction of the MOF). Unused soil and rock shall be spread adjacent to the plant or disposed of in a disposal area so as to minimize any visual impacts of the Project.

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TABLE 7-1 – SUMMARY OF WASTE STORAGE, TREATMENT AND DISPOSAL METHODS DURING LNG PLANT AND PIPELINE CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION

Type of Waste Origin Storage Methods Treatment/Disposal Methods

HAZARDOUS

Waste oil Vehicles, equipment • Drums in designated areas with spill retention

• Recycle or incineration

Transformer oil Transformers • Drums • Recycle

Chemicals Tanks and pipeline hydrotesting • Store in tanks • Reuse, evaporate in ponds and/or discharge according to standards

Mercury (none expected)

LNG Plant processes (absorbent, ion exchange resin)

• Drums in designated areas with spill retention

• Export (Europe or South Africa) for treatment according to the Basel Convention

Sludges Wastewater Treatment Plant • Tanks • Controlled landfill within plant fence

Empty drums Various potential sources • Rinse and store in designated area • Scratch and dispose with scrap metal

NON-HAZARDOUS

Scrap metal Pipeline and plant construction materials • Open yard • Sell or dispose in designated areas

Kitchen waste Construction camps • Closed containers • Pipeline camps: disposal in authorized landfills in coordination with local authorities

• LNG plant construction camp and permanent camp incinerator

Paper and wood Construction camps and shipping material

• Containers • Recycle

Absorbent material Use for small spills of chemicals

• Sealed drums • Incinerate depending on chemical

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Type of Waste Origin Storage Methods Treatment/Disposal Methods

Dredging material MOF • Direct disposal • Disposed in designated area (in water depths of 150 m).

INERT

Demolition waste Balhaf • Direct disposal • Reuse in designated area

Soil and rock spoils Plant and pipeline construction • Direct disposal • Reuse as fill or in concrete

• Dispose along pipeline trench

• Dispose in designated areas

Plastic Construction camps • Containers • Recycle

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7.2.1.2. Water conservation

Water Supply

The following measures shall be followed to minimize water use:

• Hydrostatic pipe testing will be performed in sections of limited length (average 32 km), and the water will be re-used for each test section.

• Water piping will be constructed using non-corrosive materials. Joints and bend pipes should be leak-proof.

• Water storage tanks will be installed.

• Personnel will be trained to save water, and signs will be erected with water-saving reminders in areas where water is used (e.g., bathrooms, kitchen, laundry areas).

Aquifer Protection Measures Protection measures are primarily associated with the protection of groundwater; specifically, deep aquifer groundwater for water supply and shallow aquifer during pipeline construction.

Deep Aquifers

Since it is possible that the primary water supply for Pioneer Camp and for Pipe-line Construction will be deep aquifer groundwater, it is important to manage this aquifer against over-depletion and protect it from contamination. Therefore, if aquifer water is utilized, then procedures and studies shall be developed to address the following aquifer issues:

• The maximum sustainable pumping rate of the aquifer,

• The peak and average pumping requirements of the construction,

• The proposed methods of drilling and installing groundwater supply wells to protect the aquifer against foreign contaminants,

• The proposed methods of abandoning groundwater supply wells when their use is no longer required,

• The proposed network of pumping wells and their effect on the groundwater flow and recharge,

• Monitoring the quality of groundwater in wells located within the zone of potential effects of the construction.

Shallow Aquifers

During the construction of the pipelines in the area of wadi crossings, it is important to recognize the sensitivity of the local aquifer to site construction activities. The aquifer in the area of some wadis may be only 8 meters deep from the ground surface, and thus could be impacted by infiltrating water. Therefore, overland discharge of wastewater from construction activities in these areas must be avoided if chemicals are present in the water.

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7.2.1.3. Wastewater Management

During Construction

Two major sources of wastewater from the construction phase of the Project are hydrostatic testing water and construction camp wastewater, each of which are described below.

Wastewater generated from the hydrostatic testing and commissioning will be collected, analyzed, and disposed of in an environmentally responsible manner in compliance with the standards given for discharge as indicated in Table 3-4 in Section 2.0. The primary potential reuse of the hydrostatic test water is for dust suppression on the access roads and in work areas. Other uses such as gardening or construction of a green belt should be further analyzed. If test fluids do not meet these standards, then the fluids will be stored and treated in the plant wastewater treatment plant.

Wastewater generated at the camps (i.e., sewage and wash water) from the construction and operation will be treated to meet the effluent criteria for water reuse. Reuse of treated wastewater will be mainly for dust control and garden watering. The system will consist of two tanks; the first tank is intended for collection and settlement, while the second tank is intended as an effluent polishing/chlorination chamber.

Water being a major issue in Yemen, YLNG will analyze possibility to re-use of treated wastewater. Potential uses include dust suppression, gardening or construction of green belts against desertification. In any case, effluents will be tested, before any re-use of water is allowed.

During Operation

Sewage and wastewater collection and their treatment at the LNG plant are described in the Project Description, Section 3.0.

The domestic sewer water will be treated by an aerobic biological treatment plant, comprised of a primary settlement tank, activated sludge reactor , clarifier, and final disinfection with site supplied hypochlorite solution (from the electro-chlorination plant). Sludge generated from the sewage treatment will be stabilized for proper disposal. Treated effluent of the Plant will be mixed with treated wastewater from the chemical and oily sewer systems as well as cooling water prior to being discharged to the sea.

YLNG will study how a portion of the treated water may be re-used for irrigation (e.g., green belt, gardening, etc.).

The discharge will meet the water quality requirements listed in the Project Description in Section 2.0.

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7.2.1.4. Hazardous Chemicals Management

Chemicals Management Plan

A Chemicals Management Plan shall be developed which details the measures to minimize the potential for pollution of surface water, groundwater, and land from storage and handling hazardous chemical. The Plan will apply to all phases of the Project and will include the hazardous materials in use, including the LNG itself.

The Chemicals Management Plan will be based on the principle of chemical life cycle analysis, and will include the following:

• Chemical inventory to include identification, classification, quantification and delivery method ;

• Hazard Assessment on the basis of toxicity and Health and Safety recommendations as described in the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS);

• Cost-benefit analysis as to the potential use of alternatives;

• Storage and Handling method;

• Spill emergency procedures and response equipment

• Potential reuse and recycling opportunities;

• Disposal;

• Training;

• Documentation and Records.

Chemicals Storage

During construction and operation of the plant and pipelines, the following criteria will be considered when selecting the location of chemical and hazardous waste storage areas:

• Distance from inhabited areas, drinking water reserves, watercourses or surface waters, sources of potential danger;

• Ease of access;

• Ground stability;

• Proximity to equipment and facilities (e.g. fire water, appropriate drainage systems);

• Separate storage areas for incompatible products.

Chemical storage areas during construction and permanent chemical storage areas shall have the following components:

• Impermeable floors;

• Secondary containment (e.g., berm, sump areas);

• Drainage systems that do not directly discharge to watercourses or rain water runoff drainage systems;

• Roof;

• Secured access, limited to authorized and appropriately trained personnel.

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Within the storage areas, chemicals will be stored as follows:

• Drums will be preferentially stored vertically on pallets. Horizontal drums will be appropriately wedged.

• Storage racks with integral secondary containment are recommended.

• Stacking heights will be limited.

• Locations of emergency equipment will be indicated.

• An inventory of chemicals will be kept.

• Incompatible chemicals will be segregated.

• Flammable chemicals must be stored in a separate compound separated by fire wall

• A Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) will be provided for each chemical.

• Every drum /container will be labelled with the relevant Safety/Environment logo.

Chemical containers shall be inspected regularly for leaks, dents, bulging, corrosion or other mechanical deterioration, and prompt corrective actions will be taken to mitigate the potential for a chemical spill or release.

7.2.1.5. Noise management

Prior to the start of construction, Noise Control Procedures for the construction activities will be prepared and implemented to comply with the Project noise specifications. The procedures will include construction vehicle and equipment inspection, and noise level monitoring (if necessary) to achieve the construction noise level limits.

The LNG plant and the pipeline compressor station shall be designed to meet the Project noise specifications during its operation. The suppliers/manufacturers of permanent process machinery shall be required to certify, guarantee, or demonstrate that the equipment they provide will satisfy the noise control requirements of the purchase specifications.

The following general recommendations are aimed at limiting noise during construction and operation of the Project:

• All noise-producing equipment and vehicles using internal combustion engines shall be equipped with mufflers and air-inlet/outlet silencers where appropriate. This noise control equipment shall be maintained in good operating condition to meet or exceed original factory specifications. Mobile or fixed "package" equipment (e.g., arc-welders, air compressors) shall be equipped with shrouds and noise control features that are readily available for that type of equipment.

• All mobile or fixed noise-producing equipment used on the Project which is regulated for noise output by a local, national or international agency, shall comply with such regulation while in the course of Project activity.

• Equipment such as compressors, generators, shall be designed, insulated, shrouded, shielded, or enclosed so that the noise level is limited to a specified level or less.

• Electrically-powered equipment instead of pneumatic or internal combustion powered equipment shall be used, where feasible.

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• Material stockpiles and mobile equipment staging, parking, and maintenance areas shall be located as far as practicable from noise-sensitive receptors.

• The hours of construction including noisy maintenance activities and all spoils and material transport shall be restricted to the periods and days permitted by the local noise or other applicable ordinance. Noise-producing Project activity shall comply with local noise control regulations affecting construction activity or obtain exemptions there from.

• The use of noise-producing signals, including horns, whistles, alarms, and bells shall be for safety /Security warning purposes only.

• The emplacement of berms or erection of temporary sound wall barriers will be considered where Project activity is unavoidably close to noise-sensitive receptors.

• Blasting Procedures that meet current industry standards shall be prepared and implemented. Procedures shall include the use of blast warning signals to alert nearby persons of an upcoming blast.

• Blasting activity shall be limited to daylight hours.

7.2.1.6. Radiation Management.

A specific Plan shall be drawn to limit the exposure and protect Personnel from radiations (X-Rays or others) which will have to be performed for tests.

7.2.2. Emergency Response Plan

As the Project involves the construction and operation of an LNG plant and pipelines, the primary hazardous chemical is the LNG itself. The LNG is a liquid as long as it remains under pressure. If a pipeline or tank is ruptured, the LNG will be released as a gas. Such a release may result in a fire or explosion. Therefore, the main risk is to human health and safety rather than the environment.

Since the LNG will only be present at the plant and the product pipelines during the operation phase, oil and hazardous chemical spills/releases during the construction phase will be limited to the possibility of small spills of chemicals during temporary storage and usage. Such hazardous chemicals might include:

• Hydrocarbon fuels from machines and vehicles;

• Lubricating oils;

• Chemicals used in hydrostatic testing water.

Other chemicals which pose a potential risk as a result of a release or spill during the operation of the LNG plant include:

• Other gaseous hydrocarbon fuels (intermediate products);

• Liquid hydrocarbon fuels (intermediate products and fuel sources including vessels and LNG carrier fuel);

• Amines used in the pre-treatment of acid gas;

• Anti-scale and anti-foam agents added to treated water from the desalinization plant;

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• Acids which are periodically used for cleaning of the desalinization and electro-chlorination units or process equipments.

• Lubricating oils;

• Transformer oils; and

• Caustic soda and hydrochloric acid used for neutralization in the chemical sewer treatment.

• Potential spills into the sea from vessels and carriers will be specifically considered following MARPOL Rules

Hydrocarbon gases or vapours from emergency depressurization will run to the flare system. Hydrocarbon gases will only be relieved to the atmosphere from process equipment in the very exceptional circumstance of the flare not being operational.

Pollution prevention and Emergency response plans will be developed for implementation. This will include the development of Spill Pollution Prevention and Control (SPPC) Plan.

7.2.2.1. Emergency Pipeline Repair System

YLNG has developed an Emergency Pipeline Repair System (EPRS) which outlines the requirements for an Emergency Response Plan in case of leaks and breakdowns of the pipelines. The EPRS document describes the potential risks, hazards and breakdowns which may threaten the pipelines and identifies safeguards including monitoring, inspections and personnel training. During the operation of the pipelines, monitoring and inspection will include the following:

• Pipeline pressure and flow rate will be continuously monitored remotely using the SCADA system from a central control room in Balhaf. Significant pressure drops will be automatically detected and alarmed at the Balhaf control room. Block valves located every 32 km (average) along the pipeline routes will be used to automatically isolate a release between any two valves, thus minimizing the amount of gas released.

• The general condition of the pipelines will be monitored using inspection tools. This will reveal any problem areas related to internal corrosion, external corrosion, and external damage.

• The route of the pipelines will be driven regularly (using the access track adjacent to the pipeline) and visual inspections made for third party surface disturbance, or any other potential activities or risks to pipeline integrity. The Cathodic Protection (CP) system will also be inspected via frequent surveys.

7.2.2.2. Emergency Response Plans YLNG has developed an Emergency Response Plan (ERP) Manual to assist YLNG personnel, contractors and subcontractors in responding rapidly and effectively to emergency situations that may occur during plant and pipeline construction and operation. Regarding the environmental issues described in this ESIA, the ERP Manual describes strategies for spill/release prevention and spill containment and cleanup, including site-specific considerations and descriptions of minor and major spill/release types. The ERP Manual also contains a general sequence of response actions, which specify the duties of key personnel in case of a spill/release. The ERP Manual shall be fully developed for the Construction, SimOps, and Operations Phases of the Project. The Manual shall address as a minimum five basic types of emergencies: (1) gas release, (2) fire/explosion, (3) personnel

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(medical/injury/fatality/missing), (4) aviation operation, and (5) chemical spill. Of these types of emergencies, only a fire/explosion or a chemical spill would be likely to have the potential to have a significant impact on the environment. Fires and/or explosions could occur along the pipeline or at the plant, while chemical spills involving significant quantities of fluids can only occur at the plant and at the MOF (e.g., fuel offloading). Given the small quantities of chemicals used, it is likely that a spill could be easily contained by the first responders and that environmental impacts would be localized, if any at all.

The ERP Manual describes the procedures to be taken in the event of an environmental pollution incident, including whom to contact, the location of spill response equipment, and the appropriate actions to be taken. At wadis and at the MOF, particular attention shall be given to the protection of the aquatic environment both during operation and storage of equipment. Oil, fuel and chemical storage facilities will have sufficient secondary containment and will be located away from surface waters. No response action will be taken which is detrimental to the surrounding un-impacted environment or endangers the safety of responders.

In addition, personnel will be trained in preventive and precautionary procedures. Chemical, oil and fuel transport, storage and handling procedures will be developed to minimize the potential for pollution incidents.

The Emergency Response Team (ERT) shall be trained in all aspects of the Spill Pollution Prevention and Control (SPPC) Plan and ERP, including the completion and filing of incident report forms. During and following a pollution incident, the Environmental Manager, or his designee, will perform an assessment of the environmental impacts . The intent of the environmental assessment is to identify sensitive environmental issues and react accordingly both during and after the response action. Following the response action, it may be necessary for the Environmental Manager to implement certain provisions of the plans, including proper waste management procedures and monitoring of the impacted environment following restoration activities.

7.2.3. Training Program

YLNG recognizes the importance of training YLNG and contractor personnel on environmental and social issues related to construction and operation activities in Yemen. Therefore, a training program shall be developed to ensure that all YLNG and contractor employees are briefed on the site-specific application of the various plans.

A training manual shall be produced to explain the importance of environmental protection in Yemen and to describe the key human behavioral prohibitions contained in the plans. All YLNG employees and contractors will be required to read and understand the contents of this manual. Frequent reinforcement of these policies will be maintained through refresher courses. Strict enforcement of the policies will be followed during all phases of the Project. Employment will be terminated for individuals not adhering to the required guidelines.

The training manual will be supplemented by periodic environmental briefings at the work locations conducted by the on-site safety, health and environmental protection (SHEP) representative or others. These briefings are intended to reinforce the importance of the environmental safeguards YLNG has incorporated into its operations and to emphasize strict compliance with the appropriate behaviors.

Specific components of the training manual which are relevant to the provisions of the environmental plans include:

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• Waste management procedures;

• Water conservation measures;

• Wastewater management;

• Hazardous chemicals management including implementation of Emergency Response Plans and Spill Contingency Plans;

• Noise management;

• Socio-economic management;

• Preservation of the environment including strict behavior rules for workers (e.g., no hunting, do not disturb mating sea turtles, etc.); and

• Environmental monitoring.

The contents of the training manual shall be revised and approved by the Environmental Manager. The course will be audited periodically to ensure that its contents and comprehension by attendees is in accordance with the objectives of the ESMS.

7.2.4. Preservation and restoration

7.2.4.1. Preservation of Archaeological Sites

The removal of prehistoric artefacts and the disturbance of archaeological sites is unavoidable in certain areas of the LNG plant. Yemeni law requires that any removal of such artefacts shall be performed under the supervision of the Yemen General Organisation for Antiquities and Museums (GOAM). An Archaeological Protection Procedure has been developed by YLNG, with the support of local specialists. This plan will address the identification of significant historic/prehistoric artefacts and the collection of pertinent archaeological data prior to its disturbance which considers all the archaeological resources of the Project Area.

7.2.4.2. Biological Preservation

The disturbance of biological sites containing species considered as sensitive along the pipeline will be limited to the extent possible.

In areas where species are present, a site clearance will be performed before any construction activity starts. The clearance will document the presence of any sensitive species, their exact GPS location, the feasibility for removing such plants or the justification for relocating the pipeline. Species removed will be appropriately preserved, relocated when it is possible, and catalogued.

During the operation of the pipelines and plant, potential disturbance to locations with sensitive species will be minimized by erecting warning signs along maintenance roads for main identified species.

7.2.4.3. Restoration after Decommissioning At the end of the lifetime of the Project, the plant will be decommissioned. The objective of site restoration will be to either return the disturbed areas to productive use after the abandonment or find future uses of existing structures for another purpose (e.g., the jetty and MOF could be used for other purposes).

Restoration/reclamation success depends not only on the activities performed during the restoration phase, but on the planning and implementation of construction and operation

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phase activities that minimize disturbance. For example, the success of re-using the topsoil is directly related with the form in which the topsoil was stripped and stockpiled; therefore, in order to be effective, plans need to be developed prior to any site activities.

A detailed Environmental Restoration Plan will be developed which considers every potentially disturbed area. Depending on when the activities are required, the Plan could be divided into two different phases corresponding with construction activities (e.g., clearing, grading, and storage of topsoil) and post-construction activities (e.g., spread topsoil, re-contouring, and re-vegetation). The operation of the plant would not likely result in any specific restoration plans that are not covered by the construction phases of the Project.

7.2.5. Monitoring

A monitoring and measurement program of activities that can have a significant impact on environment will be put in place focusing on the following.

7.2.5.1. Monitoring Of Marine and Terrestrial Environment

The proposed monitoring programs of the marine and terrestrial environment during construction and operation of the pipelines and LNG Plant are presented in Tables 7-4 and 7-5, respectively. The main elements are discussed below.

7.2.5.2. Air Quality Monitoring

Ambient air quality monitoring shall be performed at local population settlements that are located close to the plant at Balhaf. The parameters listed in Table 7-5 shall be monitored at regular intervals.

7.2.5.3. Water Quality Monitoring At a minimum, water quality monitoring shall be performed at the following key locations:

• Surface water, in ponds and reservoirs along the pipeline,

• Groundwater, in existing water wells along the pipeline and in the new water supply wells (if any) for the construction camps, the plant, and the permanent camp during operation, and

• Sea water near the coast at Balhaf during construction and operation.

7.2.5.4. Coral Reef Monitoring

Following a first environmental baseline study in 1997, an environmental assessment of the Balhaf area was performed in September 2005 and included a detailed description of fish and coral communities. The conclusion of this study was that the fish and coral communities were particularly rich and diversified in the Project area. Various recommendations were proposed in order to reduce the impacts on these communities

This monitoring program relates initially to the construction phase. It will include the coral monitoring itself but also some expertise concerning the impacts on a real time basis as well as the provision of field advice concerning the construction work.

The monitoring will be based on successive observations of the coral health during the entire work period. Observations will be made approximately every two months but the frequency and the exact schedule will be defined continuously, according to the construction work schedule and phases.

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The first monitoring mission will then be devoted not only to the observations after the starts of marine works but also to a better definition of the monitoring methodology. More precisely the following tasks will be performed:

• Installation of a fixed observation system for corals and water quality,

• Implementation of the coral measurements methodology,

• Field observations of the marine work methodology.

This periodic survey will allow the detection of any changes that may occur within the coral community during construction or operation, and allow appropriate response actions to mitigate significant impacts.

7.2.5.5. Reclamation Monitoring

The total area disturbed by construction of the LNG plant shall be limited by the external fence. All reclaimed/restored areas shall be periodically monitored to document reclamation success. Along the pipeline route, routine checks shall be made for soil erosion and maintenance of slopes and protection systems. As reclamation can be slow in arid environments, the first monitoring surveys will not occur until 3 years following the completion of initial site reclamation activities, and subsequently at extended intervals.

Surveys will be conducted with the participation of local authorities and will record data on general soil conditions, flora species and evidence of animal occurrence and use of reclaimed areas

Any reclamation problems (e.g., erosion, significant re-vegetation failures) will be reported to YLNG with appropriate suggestions for corrective measures.

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TABLE 7-2 MAIN LINE TRANSFER LINE

SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENT MONITORING DURING CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION

Monitored Environment Location Test Parameters Frequency of Monitoring

During Construction During Operation

Surface water Reservoir ELW-7 (at foot of plateau cliff) and one pond on top of plateau

• Temperature • Conductivity • pH, BOD, COD • Total suspended solids • Total petroleum hydrocarbons • Heavy metals

Once after construction N/A

Groundwater Well ELW4 (near wadi Salmoon) and any new supply well for construction camps

• Water depth • Temperature • Conductivity • pH • Total suspended solids • Total petroleum hydrocarbons • Heavy metals • VOC’s

Once after construction N/A

Flora and sensitive species

Reclaimed/restored areas

• General soil conditions • Flora species

• Evidence of arrival occurrence and use of reclaimed areas

N/A Within 3 years following the completion of initial site reclamation

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TABLE 7-3 LNG PLANT AND CAMPS

SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENT MONITORING DURING CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION Environment Monitored Location Test Parameters Frequency of Monitoring

During Construction During Operation

Ambient air Quality These locations, two down wind of the LNG plant and one up wind

• Nitrogen dioxide

• Sulfur dioxide

• Particulates

• Carbon monoxide

• Ozone

• Lead

N/A Monthly

Groundwater Supply well for camps

(if any)

• Water depth

• Conductivity

• pH

• BOD

• COD

• Total coliforms

• Total suspended solids

• Total petroleum hydrocarbons

• Oil and grease

Monthly Monthly

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TABLE 7-3 (CONT.)

LNG PLANT AND CAMPS SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENT MONITORING DURING CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION

Environment Monitored Location Test Parameters Frequency of Monitoring During Construction During Operation Sea water Near coast at Balhaf

• Temperature • Salinity • Conductivity • pH, BOD, COD • Total coliforms • Total suspended solids • Total petroleum

hydrocarbons • Oil and grease

Once before construction Periodic during construction, depending on construction work intensity Once after construction

Quarterly

Coral reef Within area (1 km) Sensitive locations (marine facilities)

• Quantitative study of biodiversity

• Reef morphology • Biodiversity

Initial survey prior to construction Periodic during construction

Annually

Reclaimed/restored areas Disturbed areas around plant and camp sites

• General soil conditions • Flora species • Evidence of animal

occurrence and use of reclaimed areas

End of construction Within 3 years following the completion of initial site reclamation activities

Note: N/A = Not Applicable

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7.2.5.6. Monitoring of Emissions and Discharges

The proposed monitoring programs of emissions and discharges from the pipeline facilities and LNG plant during operation are presented in Table 7-6 and 7-7, respectively. The main points are discussed below.

7.2.5.7. Air Emissions Monitoring Atmospheric emissions from the LNG plant stem primarily from the power generation station, the flare and the tank vents.

Stationary point sources of combustion in the LNG plant, the electrical generation station shall be monitored periodically to ensure compliance with the NOx and particulates limits listed in Section 2.0. Stationary source emission monitoring will also be performed at the incinerator stack.

Direct monitoring of the flare will be in a form of opacity monitoring using Ringleman Method. Emissions, in particular for CO2, will be calculated on the bases of the flared gas quantity and composition. Flared gas will then be measured and/or evaluated.

Vented CO2 (CH4) will be periodically monitored.

Air quality monitoring for nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, particulates, carbon monoxide, ozone and lead will be performed at the appropriate frequency to document compliance with the ambient air quality standards defined in Section 2.0.

7.2.5.8. Water Discharge Quality Monitoring

Water discharge quality monitoring shall be performed at the following key locations at the plant during the operation phase of the Project, with the frequency indicated in Table 7-7:

• The observation pit in the non-contaminated sewer system,

• The influent and effluent of the oily water sewer treatment system,

• The influent and effluent of the chemical sewer treatment system,

• Several locations in the amine drainage system,

• The influent and effluent of the domestic sewer treatment plant,

• The final sampling device (treated water from the oily water, chemical and domestic sewer systems) prior to discharge to the sea,

• The downstream of each brine pump discharge.

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TABLE 7-4 MAIN LINE TRANSFER LINE

SUMMARY OF PROCESS MONITORING FOR EMISSIONS AND DISCHARGES DURING CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION

Emissions/Discharge and Location Monitored

Test Parameters Frequency of Monitoring

During Construction

During Operation

Wastewater from construction camps • COD

• BOD

• Residual Chlorine

• TSS

Monthly

N/A

Atmospheric emissions from stationary point sources

• NOx

• Particulates

• Carbon dioxide

N/A N/A

Note: NA = Not Applicable

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TABLE 7-5 LNG PLANT SUMMARY OF PROCESS MONITORING FOR EMISSIONS AND DISCHARGES DURING OPERATION

Emissions/Discharge Location of Sampling


Comments

AIR EMISSION

Flares At outlet point • Opacity Permanent Flares opacity will be measured by Ringleman Method of measurement

Tank vents, power generation station

At outlet point • Nitrogen dioxide • Sulfur dioxide • Particulates • Carbon monoxide • Ozone • Lead

Monthly Parameters for which regulatory limits exist and/or for which performance statistics may be required, continuous monitoring will be performed.

Stationary point sources of combustion in the LNG plant and power generation station

At outlet point (stacks)

• NOx • Particulates • Carbon monoxide

Monthly

Non hazardous waste incinerator

Stack of incinerator • NOx • HCl / HF • Particulates • CO • VOC • Opacity • SO2

• Once during incinerator commissioning

• Monthly during incinerator

monitoring will be performed manually using iso kinetic sampler and corresponding analyzers

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Comments

• Heavy metals operation

WASTE WATER Non-contaminated sewer

Observation basin prior to discharge to sea

• pH, temperature, TSS • Total hydrocarbons • BOD5, COD • Phosphorus, Nitrogen • Salinity, phenols • Chlorinated organics • Cyanides (free) • Metals (Cr, Pb, Cu, Ni, Zn, Mn,

Se, As, Cd, Hg) • Iron and aluminum compounds • Fluorides

Monthly Weekly visual inspection

Oily waste water Outlet of CPI separator

• TSS • Oil and grease • Amines

Daily

Chemical sewer treatment system

Outlet of the 2 neutralisation sumps

• pH • COD

Daily

Amine system sumps Sump • Amines • PH

NA Eliminated as waste (drum), or connected to the water sewer (see above)

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Comments

Sanitary sewer influent to treatment plant

Inlet • BOD • COD

Daily

Effluent from sewage treatment plant

Outlet • pH, BOD,TSS • Residual chlorine

Daily

Brine sump discharge prior to discharge to the sea

Outlet (Discharge pump)

• Salinity • Temperature • pH

Daily

Final discharge to sea Outfall • Temperature • Chlorine

Continuous Daily

The design will include monitoring and record with appropriate methods of parameters for which regulatory limits exist and/or for which performance may be required

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7.2.6. Environmental Auditing

A QHSE audit procedure has been developed to be implemented during the course of the Project phase. YLNG Quality, health, safety and environment department will be responsible for performing audits to EPC contractors. EPC contractors under its own management system will perform internal audit. Each audit report will be made available for YLNG to review. Audit findings will be logged into a tracking system dossier to monitor the audit findings close out.

There will be several levels of audit that may be imposed during the construction involving internal and external audit:

• Level 1: EPC contractor audit

• Level 2: YLNG Project audit to EPC contractor

• Level 3: YLNG Company audit to the overall Project implementation

• Level 4: Yemeni Authority to the overall Project implementation

• Level 5: Lenders/Agency audit to the overall Project implementation

With the levels of audit that will be applied to the Project, a combined schedule of audit will be exercised during the preparation of audit schedule and scope.

The environmental audit of the LNG Plant will be performed to evaluate operational observance of environmental-safeguard procedures, regulations and ESMS objectives. This will involve both general environmental management as well as specific technical aspects. In addition to the overall environmental management system and its implementation, the following issues may be audited:

Audit of Waste Management

The audit will review the implementation of:

• Storage and disposal practices

• Log of waste generated (type, volume, weight, hazard classification, etc.)

• Tracking waste streams and documentation of waste disposal

• Recycling alternatives

It will audit local recycling Companies on a regular basis.

Audit of Chemical Storage Areas

The audit will review the condition of and practices employed in areas used for storage of chemicals, labelling procedures, and condition of spill prevention and response equipment.

Audit of Emissions and Discharges

The audit will review that the monitoring of the emissions and discharges is conducted according to the defined program and frequencies and that the results show compliance with the set standards of air quality and wastewater discharge requirements.

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Audit of Affected Environment

During the construction and operation of the pipelines and LNG plant, the audit will review the implementation of the mitigation measures to reduce the impact on the environment and evaluate whether the results of the monitoring show a significant change in the environmental quality. The audit will include:

• Archaeological sites along the pipeline and near the plant to verify compliance with the Archaeological Preservation Plan;

• Areas identified as having sensitive flora species to insure proper protection; and

• The coastal area to assess implementation of mitigation measures.

7.2.7. Environment Management Review

The overall environmental performance and Environmental Management System functioning and organization will be regularly presented to the Yemen LNG top Management, to ensure its adequacy, suitability and effectiveness.

New objectives and actions plan will be decided in order to ensure the continuous improvement of environment performance.

7.2.8. Environment Management Reporting to Authorities

YLNG will report to local Authorities. The Minister of Water and Environment and the Environment Protection Authority will carry out monitoring on a regular basis.

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7.3. SOCIO-ECONOMIC ACTIONS – PROJECT SELECTION AND MANAGEMENT

7.3.1. Introduction

This section summarises the key socio-economic issues identified in the preliminary impact assessment of the Project, reports on YLNG’s current thinking with regard to social actions, whether aimed at mitigation, compensation or building YLNG’s long term legacy, and gives an early indication of the likely management measures for such actions.

Socio-Economic Mitigation and Management YLNG recognises that the project operations will in specific areas and at certain times adversely impact the socio-economic environment in which it will operate. YLNG also has the potential to make significant positive contributions if impacts are appropriately managed.

YLNG is therefore currently in the process of developing a policy framework for the mitigation and management of socio-economic impacts and for long-term investment into local sustainable development initiatives. This framework is focused on the management of those issues identified in the preliminary impact assessment as those anticipated to have the most significant impacts (see Chapter 5.3). It also lays the foundations for YLNG’s strategic approach to community investment as part of its goal to leave a long-term sustainable legacy for the surrounding region and for Yemen as a whole.

The following statement sets out the 10 fundamental principles guiding YLNG’s actions in the management of social and environmental impacts:

7.3.1.1. Statement of YLNG’s Social Principles

YLNG’s social and environmental activities focus on human development and the protection of biodiversity. They are based on the following nine principles:

1. Understanding the social, economic, institutional, political, cultural and environmental context of Yemen and in particular of the Project Regions, in order to integrate our operations effectively into the local environment

2. Identifying our stakeholders, engaging and maintaining dialogue with them to build relationships based on trust and mutual respect

3. Assessing and enhancing the positive impact of our activities, while preventing and mitigating their negative impact on populations, wildlife and the environment for the duration of our operations and beyond

4. Providing compensation commensurate with loss, where negative impact cannot be fully redressed, and to do so in a legal, transparent and ethical manner

5. Establishing a positive and enduring legacy for Yemeni society and preserving Yemen’s natural environment for the benefit of future generations

6. Promoting human development in local communities to enable them to independently manage and sustain the community initiatives we support. To do this we will take every opportunity to work with local partners when designing and deploying societal and environmental initiatives

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7. Maximising the employment of Yemenis, both for YLNG and for its contractors and providing training and development to improve their skills and capacity

8. Monitoring the progress of our environmental and social activities against the corresponding action plans, and regularly reporting on this progress to stakeholders

9. Following recognised international (and regional) standards in all of our social and environmental activities – as currently laid out in World Bank / IFC guidance.

Principles 3.4 and 5 are summarised by Figure 7.1.

Summary of Key Impacts and Issues

As detailed in Chapter 5, the key potential socio-economic issues and impacts of the Project identified to date are:

• Socio-cultural, community relations and health impacts of project and construction camps/workforce on communities in the vicinity;

• Livelihoods and local economic impacts:

- Loss or enhancement of livelihoods for fishing communities and users of agricultural land;

- Impact on local economy from:

- Local employment/recruitment; and

- Local procurement of goods and services.

• Impact on local infrastructure and services – roads network, water resources and energy;

• Impact of the Project on archaeology and cultural heritage; and

• Impact of Project on tourism and the potential for tourism development.

Mitigation Measures

Targeted mitigation measures have been discussed and described in Chapter 5. Mitigation measures for all impacts are currently under development and review by YLNG (this is expected to be an ongoing process), alongside the ongoing update of the social baseline and refinement of the impact assessment. This chapter will give a preliminary insight into how YLNG has been developing its social action plan - the full methodological approach will be described in more detail in the ESIA Revision 2.

Management and Monitoring

This draft gives only an indication of management and monitoring measures planned or currently being implemented. These measures and plans are currently being developed and will be released in the ESIA Revision 2, once the shape of the social action plan is discussed and agreed with relevant parties.

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7.3.1.2. Refugees and Immigrants Policy

The fundamental principles which underpin this policy are:

• Respect for human life and the obligation to offer all necessary assistance to refugees, Immigrants or other displaced persons,

• The security and safety of Yemen LNG staff and Contractor personnel,

• The obligation to abide by applicable international and Yemeni laws and regulations

• The transfer of those individuals (with their agreement) to UNHCR capable of catering for their long term needs, in accordance with the wishes of the Yemeni authorities

7.3.2. Socio-Economic Management Plans (Summary of key issues)

7.3.2.1. Community Relations Management Plan

As explained in Chapter 5, due to the largely desert environment, the relatively low population in the Project Area as the preferred routing of the pipeline to avoid more heavily populated areas, the Project is not anticipated to have significant socio-economic impacts on the populations in the vicinity of the pipeline. The most significant socio-economic impact of the plant construction is on the livelihoods of fishermen previously using Balhaf bay. Baseline research has shown the whole area to be economically deprived (particularly the coastal area) however and a number of residual direct and indirect impacts are still anticipated as discussed in Chapter 5.3 of the ESIA. These include:

• Localised impacts of construction activities on populations in the vicinity of the pipeline and plant site such as noise disturbance from project traffic and transport; and

• Localised socio-cultural and health impacts of an imported workforce and presence of the construction camps.

The Project recognises the need to mitigate these impacts as far as possible and to implement compensation and investment measures in order to offset where impacts cannot be fully mitigated and managed. As part of this process the Project also understands the need to carefully manage the expectations of the local communities with regards to the benefits the project will bring to the Project Area.

Accordingly YLNG have put in place the following Community Relations Management measures.

Community Liaison Officers and Senior Development Advisor

To help manage the consultation process and the Project’s relationship with communities and stakeholders in the Project Area, YLNG has appointed two Yemeni nationals in the role of Community Liaison Officers (CLOs). The CLOs have been acting as key points of contact and local leads in the implementation of YLNG’s community relations management plan by leading supplementary baseline survey work and consultations with communities in the Project Area.

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Other key responsibilities for these CLOs include managing and planning future public consultation and disclosure meetings and events, maintaining records and a comprehensive database of all consultations and supporting the development of a good relationship between construction contactors and communities – including dispute resolution where necessary. . They are also playing key roles in informing and shaping YLNG’s forward social investment strategy.

A third appointment of a Yemeni national has also been made for the position of Site Liaison Officer (SLO). This position is responsible for managing issues specifically related to the plant site including local people seeking work during the construction phase. The SLO helped to set up and now runs the ‘Welcome Office’ for management of local recruitment issues and answering stakeholder queries at the entrance to the Balhaf Plant site.

Public Consultation is an ongoing process and will continue throughout the life of the project. Consultation activities are being formally recorded and minutes of key consultations will be included in the full PCDP which under development.

A Senior Development Advisor has been appointed. This person was previously in charge of the Southern Governorates Rural Development Project (SGRDP) funded by the World Bank which ended in December 2005 and was covering the 4 Southern Governorates, including Shabwa.

7.3.2.2. Construction Camp Management Plan

Once all contractors are appointed detailed plans, which are currently being developed for the management of the construction workforce and its interactions with the surrounding communities and socio-economic environment will be finalised.

These will include measures for the careful management of workforce movements and behaviour, cultural awareness training, a site/camp refugee management plan, a strictly enforced camp code of conduct and health and safety training dealing with risks surrounding community safety, including minimising the spread of communicable and sexually transmitted diseases.

7.3.2.3. Transport Management Plan

A transport management plan is currently being produced, in order to minimise the negative impacts of Project transport movements within the Project Area. This will put measures in place to manage the efficient transfer of the workforce to and from camps and the pipeline/plant sites in such as way as to minimise disturbance and disruption to communities in the vicinity of the Project or along access roads, and limit or control potential hazards associated with project-related traffic and transportation of employees, materials and plant. As part of this wider planning process a Material Offloading Facility (MOF) is under construction at Balhaf, to enable the transportation and unloading of heavy materials and plant directly to the plant site by sea, thus minimising where possible impacts to current road infrastructure.

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7.3.2.4. Economic Loss Compensation Plan

Fishing Communities

Impact on fishing is the most significant social impact of the Project in terms of displacement of economic activities and access to land and sea for local fishing populations. These losses are being assessed and will be compensated by the Project by alternative measures.

YLNG through its Community Liaison team (and dedicated consultants with the necessary technical expertise) has been in consultation with local fishing communities, as part of a wider Community Relations Management Plan and Public Consultation and Disclosure Plan, in order to assess the necessary compensation for this loss. As part of this approach, and of the Project’s longer term Preliminary Social Investment Strategy, YLNG is planning support for sustainable fishing initiatives in the Balhaf/Al Ayn Bay area. In order to inform these planned mitigation and compensation measures YLNG commissioned, MacAlister Elliott, a consultancy of technical and socio-economic experts with considerable experience in the Yemen and of small-scale fishing operations, to develop a set of costed options for YLNG social action in this area. The terms of reference and initial summary findings are detailed in Chapter 5 and in part have informed the development of YLNG’s Compensation Policy for Economic Loss.

Land Users

It is important to note that the Project Area is not densely populated but on the contrary is largely uninhabited desert or semi desert. Land is used for productive purposes in very small areas: Two cultivated areas within the 60 m wide zone of the pipeline (KP180 and 190); five cultivated area within the 400 m wide restricted zone of the pipeline (KP160, 195 and 208). The Project has developed in conjunction with the Yemeni Authorities a mechanism for full and proper financial compensation. This Compensation Committee is made up mainly of Government representatives such as the Deputy Governors of Shabwa and Marib, Deputy Minister of Oil and Minerals as well as representatives of Ministry of Oil and Minerals from Shabwa and Marib, assisted by representative of the Land and Property Authority. They will decide on compensation for both losses of livelihoods through temporary loss of access to land and for full market value of land in the cases where access cannot be reinstated and must be acquired by the Project.

YLNG will bear the costs of the final compensation decided on. This Compensation Committee forms a key role in the development and implementation of YLNG’s Economic Loss Compensation Policy.

7.3.2.5. Recruitment, Employment and Training Plan

Unemployment is high in the Project Area, and there are high expectations of job opportunities and economic benefits to local services from the Project. YLNG recognises the positive impact the Project can potentially have, particularly in terms of employment provision in the Project Area. This is one of the key areas currently being developed in consultation with those construction contractors already appointed and will be developed in more detail as part of a Recruitment and Training Management Plan and the Project’s broader Community Relations Management Plan (as above).

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Construction

YLNG is currently examining the extent of local recruitment, employment and training and is in discussion with contractors, local government (governorate and directorate Labour Offices) and community representatives to ensure local labour needs are taken into account as part of the Project contractor’s recruitment procedures. The contractor’s Recruitment and Training Management Plan will be aimed at the maximizing the Yemeni content of the workforce. To this end, YLNG has established a local ‘Welcome Office’ at the entrance to the Balhaf plant construction site to register those looking for work and to manage local expectations. This is being managed by a Site Liaison Officer.

Operation

YLNG has recruited a team, based in Sana’a, to develop a long-term training programme for employees in the operational phase of the Project and to select the right number of trainees to ensure the future skilled workforce needed from around 2008.

7.3.2.6. Suppliers and Contractors Policy

In terms of impacts on the local economy the Project recognises its potential to make positive contributions but also to have negative effects such as:

• generating work-seeking migration stimulated by the presence of worker camps at the plant site;

• creating a potential increase in the informal economy in the area;

• creating potential market distortions and associated price inflation as a result of wage earning immigrant workers entering the local economy.

YLNG therefore understands its obligation to mitigate these impacts and or manage and offset them responsibly.

YLNG will commission an evaluation of the likely impacts of the Project construction camps on the local economy to better inform the impact assessment to date, taking into account contractor plans and will seek to maximise local procurement of goods and services wherever demand can be met by local suppliers and on the condition that Project HSE standards are met as a minimum requirement.

7.3.2.7. Community Infrastructure and Utilities Plan

In consultation with the construction contractors, once appointed, YLNG will develop and implement a comprehensive Community Infrastructure and Utilities Plan to minimise the potential for disruption and or negative impacts of Project activities on the local road network, water and energy infrastructure in the Project Area. This will include measures to avoid potential damage to property or community assets during construction and operation of the pipeline and plant.

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7.3.2.8. Tourism Management

YLNG will be offsetting its impact on future tourism in the Balhaf area by providing support to Yemen’s Coastal Zone Management Plan, which includes measures in support of sustainable tourism based around the rich biodiversity of the south coast.

7.3.3. Preliminary Community Investment Strategy

As part of the Project’s approach to the management of indirect and residual impacts or those issues and impacts which cannot be fully mitigated or compensated, YLNG is considering support for a range of social investment initiatives both as planned ‘offset’ projects, and as opportunities to make a long term ‘legacy’ contribution to sustainable development in the region.

Conceptual Framework for YLNG Sustainable Development/Social Investment Strategy

Figure 7.1 presents a conceptual framework to describe the drivers behind YLNG’s sustainable development/social investment strategy. It positions each area of the project’s mitigation, management and investment activities within three fields (the concentric circles):

• Measures for mitigation and abatement of impacts;

• Measures for compensating loss which cannot be mitigated;

• Measures beyond this, which contribute to YLNG’s sustainable development legacy for YLNG in Yemen.

These latter ‘legacy’ activities communicate YLNG’s awareness of the mutual value of corporate investment both for the Project and for the host country / affected local communities in which it operates. These investments yield socio-economic benefits for the local population while growing YLNG’s national and local reputation and strengthening relationships and trust with key stakeholders.

The selection and implementation of appropriate planned investment projects will be informed and guided by the YLNG’s criteria for project selection:

Criteria for Community Project Selection

YLNG’s Sustainable Development team will apply the following criteria as a guide in the appropriate selection of community investment projects and development partners. YLNG will seek to:

1. Identify projects on the ground in full consultation with:

• Local communities (and their associations if they exist);

• Local Council at Governorate level (made up of local Directorate level representatives); and

• NGOs operating in the area.

2. Make a full assessment of projects identified if necessary with the use of external specialist consultants. The main criteria YLNG’s SD team will apply to this process will be:

Mar

ine Bio

diver

sity

(Coa

stal

zones

man

agem

ent) T

errestrial Biodiversity

Archaeological/Historical Heritage ProjectsC

omm

unity

proj

ects

SkillsT

raining

(Operations)

Local Fishing Support

YLNG LEGACY

COMPENSATION

MITIGATION & ABATEMENT

Socio-economic

Environment

De-miningE

mp

loy

men

tan

dL

ocal

Pro

cure

men

t

Em

plo

ym

ent

and

Loc

alP

rocu

rem

ent

ConstructionCam

p

IssuesInfrastructure, incl Roads

Lan

dan

dA

ccess

Com

pen

sation

Sustainable Fishing

Title

Location

Client

YEMEN

YEMEN LNG


CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK FOR YLNGSUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES

App’d

Date

Drawn

Scale

Project No.

Ref.

See barscale

LYO

February 2006

JLL

43683552 Figure 7-1

Format

A4

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• Local community needs focus: Priority given to basic needs as expressed by local communities and to those communities located within the project area (pipelines and Balhaf plant);

• Significant and measurable socio-economic benefits to local people, including vulnerable groups and women;

• Sustainability through co-funding and participation – a contribution (financial or in kind) to be negotiated with local communities and co-financing/matching funding to ensure commitment, increasing self-reliance and local ownership of projects;

• Pre-assessment of risks to the project’s success, including technical issues, degree of support of local political structures and degree of support of Local Council;

• Partnerships - existence of a local operating partner with good reputation and with demonstrable and measurable results in other projects; and

• Transparency – project open to public scrutiny.

3. Discuss within YLNG in order to balance social priorities and budgetary constraints.

4. Approve funding and implement project with NGO / local partners.

In all cases community investment and involvement will be based on the prior assessment of local conditions and needs as described in Chapter 4 of this ESIA, and on an understanding of locally perceived priorities established through direct consultation and ongoing dialogue with local communities.

Ensuring Sustainability of Community Investment Projects

It should be emphasised that to ensure sustainability and local ownership of projects, wherever possible any YLNG investment initiatives related to community development will be undertaken in partnership with local development organisations and aligned with the development plans of the Local Council for Shabwa (and Marib if appropriate).

Areas for YLNG Social Investment A number of areas and sustainable development initiatives identified by YLNG as having the potential for social investment and as part of longer term project offsetting of impacts are outlined below:

This section covers the areas for potential community investment that YLNG are investigating or pursuing, based on the current realities of the local economy and preliminary assessments of the anticipated effects of the Project operations. Note no commitments or final decisions have yet been made – this will be done when local consultation is further advanced and when YLNG is further forward in developing the full range of potential investments, which currently include:

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A) Water

YLNG has been in contact the French Red Cross (FRC) – who works in partnership with the Yemeni Red Crescent - to examine the possibility of partnership projects in Yemen in the field of domestic water provision amongst the affected communities along the pipeline. YLNG facilitated a field trip down the pipeline route by FRC technical experts during Sept-Oct 2005. The findings of this initial exploratory study have already helped YLNG to establish more comprehensive baseline information on water supply in the Project Area. Since then YLNG has initiated its own survey of the water situation in the coastal part of the Project Affected Area. The results of these later surveys will be included in the ESIA Revision 2.

YLNG has also been deriving experience from other past and present development programmes. Among the programmes identified to date are the Dutch-supported TASH (Technical Assistance Shabwa) projects now finalised, as well as those of the Social Fund for Development (SFD), which has accumulated considerable experience in Shabwa Governorate. In the course of SFD’s work to date on water supply, the organisation has developed detailed criteria for project selection, including an awareness of the sustainability problems surrounding pumping from underground aquifers. Projects have also focused on sustainable water use and have a strong emphasis on providing training to local people to achieve this.

B) Education

YLNG believes that supporting education in the Project Area will have the effect of fostering the integration of local community members - young people in particular - into community life through developing abilities, knowledge, and adaptability. Education provision in the Project Area is highly variable. Survey work in 2005 showed many schools in communities in the pipeline area to be in a bad state of repair - some classrooms have collapsed roofs and many operate without essential equipment as desks and chairs. Other expressed needs were for teaching materials, accommodation for teachers and electricity.

Repair of buildings and facilities and re-equipping schools with basic supplies could constitute an effective YLNG contribution. Furthermore involving local labour in re-building works would bring jobs (and some income) to these local communities. Education is a key government responsibility is these regions, and it will be essential that any YLNG support to the sector does not undermine potential plans for government provision but rather support government action in an effective partnership.

C) Health

The standard and quality of health service provision in the Project Area varies dramatically. There are a number of cases in villages along the pipeline route where brand new health care facilities (health centres or small hospitals) have been built, but without a successful outcome to negotiations with the national authorities with regard to staffing or medical equipment and drug supply. In a few cases the larger health centres lack even such basic equipment as beds. A key issue for this sector, and one affecting the whole of Yemen, is the lack of Ministry of Health (MOH) trained health workers prepared to work in remote rural areas.

YLNG are currently considering if and how they could make a valuable contribution to this sector.

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D) Artisanal Business

YLNG is looking into whether there are opportunities to contribute to the economic health of remote regions through supporting local sustainable enterprise. Possible businesses identified to date include beekeeping (this has the potential to earn good profits particularly with access to international markets, but honey production may prove to be critically dependent on the nature and extent of vegetative cover), and local weaving (where again access to markets may prove to be the critical issues).

YLNG will be clarifying the potential (socio-economic) constraints on the multiplication of such small businesses; further baseline survey work currently being undertaken by the Community Liaison Officers should support this.

E) Rural Electrification

At present there is little or no supply of electricity to isolated locations within the PAA; even where there is supply to the local grid there is often no local connection to villages nearby or poorer houses within the villages. However, electricity supply to even remote locations is a government priority, expected to be developed over the next few years.

One potential area for YLNG support is the installation of photovoltaic panels in remote areas, potentially facilitated and supported by expertise from the Total Foundation. Solar projects are ideal for provision of electricity to areas, which are too remote from government provision and to public buildings such as schools and health centres, where running costs are an issue. However solar projects can be costly in terms of initial outlay (and any community contribution) and need to be carefully designed to be effective and economically efficient. There is also some concern about the record of poor uptake of solar projects in other areas of Yemen and this issue needs to be carefully investigated before any investment decisions are made. This may not prove to be a suitable area for YLNG support.

F) Institutional Capacity Building

YLNG recognises that isolated individual development initiatives will often fail or be unsustainable if they are not complemented by the development of organizational capacities. Institutional capacity building enhances the management and organisational capacities of local stakeholder groups, promotes self-reliance and local ownership of development initiatives, and in doing so forms a critical component of successful, long-term community development and economic growth.

YLNG see a potential role for the Project in helping boost and preserve the existing skills base in the Project Area, in partnership with local development agencies. This would also be in line with the Yemeni Government’s drive for decentralisation initiated in 2000/01, which focuses on support for local government bodies and local organisations. The critical factor for YLNG here will be identifying a suitable partner with the right experience and contacts.

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7.3.4. Public Consultation and Disclosure Plan

The consultation (PCDP) process is a key aspect of managing the Project’s relationship with key stakeholders and mitigating impacts of the Project’s presence on communities in the Project Area. Consultation was initiated at an early stage in Yemen with the authorities and local organisations

Objectives of Public Consultation and Disclosure for the ESIA

The objectives of public consultation and disclosure process for the ESIA are to:

• Identify stakeholders, and inform them about the Pipeline and Plant Project;

• Provide a forum conducive for discussion of concerns with stakeholders;

• Ensure that stakeholder perceptions and concerns are captured at an early stage and are responded to;

• Solicit stakeholder input on baseline conditions, potential impacts, preferred solutions and benefit enhancement measures; and

• Ascertain the level of acceptance for the Project.

Approach to Consultation and Disclosure for the ESIA

Activities undertaken or planned to collate stakeholder opinion regarding the Project are outlined in Table 7-6 below.

TABLE 7-6 OUTLINE OF ACTIVITIES DURING THE ESIA

Activity Timeline

Stakeholder Identification & Mapping 2005 ongoing

Preliminary Consultation 1997- 2005

First Phase of Consultation August - December 2005

ESIA (Rev0) Mid January 2006

Second Phase of Consultation January-April 2006

ESIA (Rev 1) and Executive Summary for Public Disclosure

Mid February 2006

ESIA Rev 2 End of Public Disclosure

Stakeholder Identification, Mapping and Preliminary Consultation

A consultation strategy has been developed as an ongoing process throughout 2005, building on extensive consultation undertaken to date (since 1997) and in conjunction with supplementary baseline survey work. As a first step this has included identifying stakeholders who are or have the potential to:

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• Be relevant to the process and outcomes;

• Be affected by outcomes;

• Influence the process and outcomes;

• Provide information relevant to the process and outcomes; or,

• Be interested in the Project and its outcomes.

The stakeholder identification process has been guided by Yemeni (and expatriate) experts with good local knowledge of the Project Area and the stakeholder identification guidelines in the World Bank Participation Sourcebook.

Early consultative meetings were held with a number of stakeholders, including national and local authorities, fishing communities, and local non-governmental organisations. The stakeholder list was analysed by different criteria or attributes to create a preliminary stakeholder map (Table 7-7 below). This helped to determine key groups of project stakeholders and understand the different issues and potential impacts likely to affect them.

Table 7-7 below shows key stakeholder groups and the key issues arising from the preliminary impact assessment and consultation to date, indicating which groups are likely to be affected by each issue.

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TABLE 7-7 STAKEHOLDER GROUP MAPPING BY ISSUE

Issue A. Local B. Shabwah and Marib

C. National D. Int

Population near B

alhaf plant / their associations

Population near pipeline /

their associations

Rodhom

District C

ouncil

Shabwah and M

arib G

overnor / Local C

ouncil

Shabwah and M

arib population

Shabwah and M

arib -based N

GO

s

Min of O

il and Minerals

(MO

M

Min of P

lanning & Int.

Cooperation (M

oPIC

)

Min W

ater and Env

(MW

E) / E

nvProtection

Authority (E

PA

)

Min of T

ransport (MA

A)

Min of H

ealth (MoH

)

Min of E

ducation (MoE

)

Min L

abour and Social A

ffairs (MoSA

)

Min of F

ish Wealth M

FW

)

Min of E

lectricity (MoE

)

Min of A

gricultur (MoA

)

GO

AM

/ GO

PH

CY

Yem

en population

National N

GO

s / D

evelopment agencies

DA

I / CE

FAS

International Agencies

A CONSTRUCTION PHASE

C1. Fishing livelihoods (near plant) ***** Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

C2. Coastal biodiversity (corals / fish) ***** Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

C3. Employment (locals and nationals) + short term training(pipeline and plant) *****

Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

C4. Quality of life for nearby populations (pipeline + plant) *****

Y Y Y Y

C4a Water Y Y Y Y Y

C4b Education Y Y Y Y Y

C4c Health Y Y Y Y Y

C4d Artisanal Business Y Y Y Y Y

C4e Rural Electrification Y Y Y Y Y

C4f Institutional Capacity Building Y Y Y Y Y

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C.5 Archaeological sites (pipeline + plant) ****

Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

C.6 Construction camp issues (pipeline + plant) 1. Choice of location 2. Impact on local food supply / prices *** 3. Communicable diseases *

Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

C7. Local / National procurement of goods / services **

Y Y Y Y Y Y

C8. Communications / Road transport(pipeline)**

Y Y Y Y Y

C9. Historical Heritage** Y Y Y Y

C10. Agricultural livelihoods (pipeline)* Y Y Y

C11. Loss of property / access, other than agricultural land / fishing access (pipeline and plant) *

Y Y Y Y Y

C12. Demobilisation of workforce** Y Y Y Y Y

B. OPERATING PHASE (full life cycle)

O1. Employment (locals and nationals)***** Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y O2. Future tourism (NB closely relates to biodiversity protection and archaeology)**

Y Y Y Y Y Y

O3. Decommissioning of plant and laying off of workforce **

Y Y Y Y Y Y

Y : Key Stakeholder

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First Phase of Consultation

The first phase of consultation is ongoing and has been underway since August 2005. Consultations are conducted in Arabic and English as appropriate. Stakeholders include representatives from the following groups:

• Government;

• National;

• Regional – Shabwa and Marib;

• Local – Project Affected People;

• Other – local and some international NGOs.

During both preliminary and first phase of consultations, a number of issues were identified as being of concern and interest to stakeholders. These will be listed in detail along with associated YLNG responses and proposed management actions in the PCDP in the ESIA Revision 2. Meeting minutes for all recent and documented consultations will also be included in the PCDP along with photographs illustrating the social environment and potential issues identified during site investigations.

Detailed minutes are not available for the earlier consultations that took place over the extended period between 1996-2004. Wherever possible however, records of more recent consultations have been documented, naming attendees, and giving dates and locations of the meetings and if known a summary of the main issues discussed.

Disclosure of ESIA Revision 1

Upon completion of the ESIA (Rev 1), copies of the Executive Summary in Arabic or English, will be sent or given to the stakeholders engaged in the process and they will be notified of the availability of the ESIA. Copies of the Executive Summary and the ESIA will be available at the following locations:

• Shabwa and Marib Governor’s Office and Local Councils;

• Administrative offices of YLNG, Sana’a;

• Balhaf plant site;

• Ministry of Oil and Minerals;

• Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) of the Ministry of Water and the Environment; and

• YLNG website: www.yemenlng.com

ESIA Comment Period

Following dissemination of the Executive Summary and first phase of consultation, giving public notification of disclosure, the ESIA Revision 1 will be made readily accessible to stakeholders (see above list of points of availability) for a 60-day comment period as per IFC requirements. At this time a non-technical Executive Summary of the report in Arabic will be proactively presented to local stakeholders (the recipient groups and the form of presentation will be confirmed).

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Second Phase of Consultation

Following the dissemination of the Executive Summary and ESIA (Rev 1), a series of public meetings and workshops will take place to allow public disclosure of ESIA findings as indicated in the preliminary time line below Table 7-8:

TABLE 7-8 PRELIMINARY TIMELINE FOR KEY YLNG PUBLIC DISCLOSURE EVENTS 2006

Date Event Stakeholders

February 2006 Launch Website All

Early March 2006 Workshop All relevant Government Ministries, Local Council Chairmen

Press Conference Yemeni National Media

Early March 2006 Public presentation for comment and feedback

Presentation to Yemen-based NGOs, cultural institutes and embassies (open to international NGOs)

End April 2006 End of 60 day comment period

All

Every quarter 2006 Regular issues update and feedback session

Shabwa and Marib Governors and Local Councils at both governorate and district levels.

These meetings will be conducted in Arabic and English as appropriate and any additional key stakeholders identified in the interim period may be invited to attend. A more detailed timeline showing key milestones in Public Consultation and Disclosure can be found in Table 7-11 below. A key to this timeline is provided in Table 7-12.

ESIA Revisions

Once the comment period has ended, all relevant comments will be integrated into the ESIA Revision 2 which will be submitted by YLNG to the National Authorities. Copies, in English, and Executive Summary in Arabic) will also be made available to the public at the same locations listed above for the disclosure of ESIA (Rev 1).

Table 7.8 below charts YLNG’s public consultation activities to date as well indicating key future PCDP milestones. Table 7.9 provides a more detailed description of these consultation activities, the stakeholder groups involved and the issues under discussion in each case.

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TABLE 7-9 KEY CONSULTATION / DISCLOSURE MILESTONES IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF

YLNG'S ESIA / PCDP / ESMP

1997,2001 2005 2006 2007Q1 Q2 Q3 Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar. Q2 Q3 Q4

ESIA (+ PCDP/ESMP Summaries)

Public Consultation and Disclosure Plan

Social Action Plan + Management / Monitoring Processes

Construction Environmental Management Plan

Operations Environmental Management Plan

A. Key Workshops with Government

B. Key Meetings with Shabwah and Marib Local Authorities (Governor and Local Council)C. Key Discussions with Populations in vicinity of Pipeline and Plant

i) Fishermen and their associations

ii) Inland Communities

D. Non-Governmental Organisations and Development Agencies

i) Locally-based NGOs

ii) National NGOs operating in Shabwah/ Marib

iii) Other NGOs and Dev Agencies

iv) YLNG staff (+Total Yemen)

v) Yemeni media

E. Lenders / Export Credit Agencies

Key Milestones

Arabic translation of key sections

in ensuring compliance with Equator Principles (Category A)Key external consultation / disclosure milestones in the development of YLNG's ESIA / PCDP / ESMP v29.1.06

PCDP - the Rolling Plan - for periodic review and update

1 2

2

2

2

2

2

2

3

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

5

3

3

3

3

4

4

4 5 5 5

76 8 77

3

3 442 3

2

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TABLE 7-10

KEY TO PCDP ACTIVITIES AND MILESTONES CHART KEY MILESTONES IN ESIA/PCDP/ESMP DISCLOSURE

1 16 Nov 05 Draft ESIA to Lenders

2 Early Dec ESIA headlines on YLNG website

3 End Jan ESIA Rev0 copies available + posted on YLNG website

4 End April ESIA Rev1 copies available (following 2 month commenting period by all stakeholders + posted on YLNG website

5 Every 6m initially

PCDP / ESMP are living documents and will be updated (and made publicly available on a regular basis)

KEY PCDP -EVENTS PAST AND FUTURE

Date Key attendees Issue consulted on / disclosed

A. Key Workshops with Government

A1 18-19 June 05

Min of Oil and Minerals (MOM), Min Social Affairs (MOSA), Min Water and Environment (MWE), Min of transport (MT), Min of Defence (MD), Min of Finance and Customs (MFC), Min of Interior (MI), Immigration Authority, Political Security, Shabwa and Marib Governorates

Introduce project to Yemeni authorities. Feedback on the perspectives of the various Ministries and from the Governorates

A2 26 July 05 MWE, Environment Protection Agency (EPA), Maritime Affairs Authorities (MAA), MOM, with URS (YLNG’s ESIA Consultants)

Balhaf environmental impacts

A3 18 Sept 05

29 Sept 05

2 Oct 05

General Organisation for Antiquities and Museums (GOAM)

Discussion on forthcoming archaeological surveys of Pipeline and Balhaf Site, including GOAM involvement + approval for the forthcoming archaeological surveys of the Pipeline and Balhaf Site

A4 21 Sept 05 MWE, EPA, MAA, MOM, URS Balhaf marine environmental assessment

A5 26 Nov 05

3 Dec 05

MWE-led committee meetings Review and commentary on ESIA, leading to EPA formal approval of Draft 4.

A6 11 Dec 05 MFW with MEP (YLNG Fishing Consultancy) Impacts on fishing and fishermen’s compensation options

A7 etc

As needed Workshops / key meetings as required As per issue arising, particularly around design of YLNG Community Investment Action Plan (CIAP)

A8 Late Feb 05

All relevant Ministries, Governorate Representatives, Local Council Chairmen

ESIA Rev0 presentation for comment and feedback

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B. Key Meetings with Shabwa Local Authorities

B1 7 May 05 Shabwa Governor Introduction to the project

B2 14 Sept 05 Shabwa Governor, Director GOAM Shabwa , Head of Labour Office

Presentation of surveys (including Archaeological), responses to questions about local employment

B3 24 Sept 05 Official opening of Balhaf before start of construction in the presence of some one thousand representatives including MOM Minister, Shabwa / Rodhoom dignitaries, and Local Council representatives

Outline of YLNG plans and key project milestones, explanation of plan of site, benefits to Yemen and to the region

B4 26 Nov 05 Shabwa Governor, Local Council, Members of Parliament, Army Command, with YLNG Contractors

Local employment processes, Training, YLNG Social Action Programme, Security issues

B5 31 Dec.05 Shabwa Local Council Water consultancy phase 1 especially focused on the villages of the coastal area (SFD project)

B6 07-08 Jan 06

Shabwa Governor, Shabwa, Local Council , Rural Water Ministry.

Water consultancy phase 2 especially focused on the villages of the coastal area (SFD project).

B7 etc

Approx quarterly in 06

Semi-regular meetings with Governors and Local Councils.

As per issues arising

C(i). Key Discussions with Populations (and their associations) in vicinity of plant – mainly reliant on fishing

Ci1 24 -27 Sept 05

Visit of SD team to Balhaf area and Rodhoum directorate

Fishing livelihoods and needs, short term issues relating to fishing in Balhaf Bay, workings of fishing associations

Ci2 Oct to Dec 05

Survey and interviews by Community Liaison Officer as well as SD Team.

Baseline data and initial determination of local needs

Ci3 2-9 Dec 05 Fishing impacts (MEP) and socio-economic consultancy (Miranda Morris and Suad Yafee)

Further clarification of impact on fishermen of loss of Balhaf bay, fishermen / fishermen associations reactions to compensation options

Ci4 Jan-March 06

SD team follow up with fishermen and their associations, potentially with MEP support

Local discussion of recommendations of MEP team on fishing compensation options

C(ii) Key Discussions with Populations (and their associations) in villages in vicinity of pipeline

Cii1

21-24 Sept 05

Visit of SD team to pipeline communities Livelihoods and needs, water supplies, education, artisanal business

Cii2

Nov 05 /

Jan 06

Survey and interviews by Community Liaison Officer

Baseline data and local needs

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Cii3

Jan – Mar 06

Local community discussions Around initial shaping of Community Investment Action Plan

D. NGOs and Development Agencies

D(i) Locally-based NGOs

Di1 27 Sept 05 NGOs based in Mukallah and working in Shabwa (Social Fund for Development)

Local experience in water, education, health, and capacity building

Di2 26 Nov 05 NGOs and Development Agencies working in Shabwa and based in Ataq (Public Works, Dutch Technical Assistance, SFD, Southern Governorate Rural Development projects based in Ataq

Local experience in water, education, health, and capacity building

Di3 28 Nov 05 NGO in Mukallah working for Shabwa (SFD) Additional information on water projects in Rodhoom Directorate

D (ii) National NGOs (operating in Shabwa / Marib)

Dii1

13 Sept 05 French Red Cross and Yemeni Red Crescent French Red Cross plan to open office in Ataq and help Red Crescent to open a local branch; plan to work on water and sanitation. Field trip briefing.

Dii2

18Oct 05 French Red Cross Results of YLNG-sponsored water sanitation mission in Shabwa directorate. Proposal submitted to YLNG for a 2 year project

Dii3

6 Dec 05

PHR+ and Catalyst, meetings in Sana’a offices

Health projects in Shabwa. Discussion on programming and lessons learnt

Dii4

Early March

tbc

Yemen-based and international NGOs, International agencies, Cultural institutes, Embassies


D (iii) Other NGOs and Development agencies (not operating in Shabwa / Marib)

Diii1

13 Jul 05 Care International Work in Yemen since 1994, but not in Shabwa

Diii2

23 July 05

20 Aug 05

UNDP, Sana’a Culture projects, with Zabid as example

De-mining initiative west of Mukallah

Diii3

Mid Oct UNESCO, Paris Archaeology Programme in Yemen and potential links with YLNG work

Diii4

6 Sept 05 GTZ (German Technical Assistance) Work in Yemen since 1968 in 16 governorates but not Shabwa. Discussion and advices on water, education, health, small enterprise promotion

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Dii4

Early March 06

tbc

Yemen-based NGOs, Cultural Institutes, Embassies


D (iv) YLNG staff (and total, Yemen)

Div1

18-19 Sept 05

Visit to Total SD projects in Hadramaut province

Lessons learnt from schools and health centres, also potential electricity programmes

Div1

Feb 06 Special session YLNG staff and selected others (e.g. Total Yemen staff)


D (v) Yemeni media

Dv1 etc

Feb 06 Yemeni national media (Arabic and English language), probably after meeting with Ministries

ESIA Rev0 press conference

E. Lenders and Export Credit Agencies (who require compliance to Equator principles)

E1 6 Oct 05 Presentation of ESIA Draft to environment and social advisers to Lenders

Early review for any significant issues in Equator Principles Category A compliance

E2 16 Nov 05 Presentation of ESIA to Lenders / ECAs Review of significant issues, + subsequent feedback and comment

E3 17 Jan 05 Environment and social representatives of Lenders and ECAs visit Yemen, presentation of ESIA Rev0

Review of significant issues in the field, direct observation of situation on the ground. Meetings with relevant YLNG staff and stakeholders

7.3.5. SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT RESOURCING

Table 7-11 below presents a timeline of YLNG’s resourcing for Sustainable Development tasks and the ESIA, PCDP and ESMP from 1997 to present.

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TABLE 7-11 YLNG SD RESOURCING (29JANUARY 2006)

1997 2001Q1/Q2 Q3 Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar. Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4

Key MilestonesFID ESIA Rev

1PCDP Rev 0

First Loading

HR Development/ Yemenisation

SD Coordinator

Public Relations Officer (p/t)

HR and Training Managers (p/t))

SD Manager

Sustinable Development Coordinator (Total Corporate)

Liaison and Support (YLNG Business Coordinator at Total)

Legal Manager (Compensation issues) (p/t)

Community Liaison Officer (CLO1) Pipeline area

HSE Manager

Project staff (Site Representative + HSE) (p/t)

On-Site Archaeologist

SDE Senior Adviser

HSE Site Enviromental Coordinator

SDE Administrator

Site Liaison Officer ( SLO, reporting primairly to Project)

Community Liaison Officer (CLO 2) Balhaf Area

Community Programmes Senior Adviser (tbc)

Field Staff (Secretary/ Security/ Driver) tbc

1) ESIA/PCDP/ESMP Support 1,1 1,2 1,2

a) Environment

b) Socio-economic1,3 1,3 1,3

2) Socio-economic survey2,1 2,2

3) Marine Biodiversity 3 3 tbc

4) Archaeology 4 4

5) Cultural Heritage 5

6) Water Supply6,1 6,2 6,2

7) Artisanal Fishinga) Technical 7,1 tbc

b) Socio-economic 7,2

8) Construction Camp Impacts 8

9) Yemenisation and Training (Operation Phase) 9

10 ) Community Investment Programmes10

Key 1,1 Woodward Clyde International (London)

1,2 URS (Lyons, France)+

Focused on Socio-Economic issues 1,3 URS (London)2,1 Yahya Al Marrany / CSO (Sana'a)+ M. Detalle

Focused on Environmental /Archaeology issues 2,2 Review tribes in pipeline area3 Creocean (Montpellier, France)

Focused on both Socio-Economic & Environmental Issues 4 GOAM, Deutsche Archaologisches Institut DAI, (Sana'a)and Centre Francais D'Archeologie et de Sciences

Resources from other YLNG departments Sociales de Sana'a CEFAS (Sana'a)5 DAI + CEFAS tbc

Part time (p/t) support for SDE 6,1 French Red Cross FRC/ Yemeni Red Crescent (Sana'a)

6,2

tbc To be confirmed 7,1 MacAlister Elliott and Partners (Lymington, UK)

7,2

8 Consultancy tbc9 Various training organisations

10 Consultancy support tbc

2007 20082005 2006

MEP (Miranda Morris, St. Andrew's University, UK and Su'ad Yafee, Aden University)

A. YLNG SDE TEAM + ASSOCIATES

FRC with Al Noor Training and Development Unit (NTDU), Aden University

B. EXTERNAL SPECIALIST TECHNICAL SUPPORT

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CONTENTS

Section Page Number

8. APPENDICES................................................................................................................ 8-1

8.1. LIST OF PREPARERS..................................................................................................8-1 8.1.1. Preparers of the Recent Baseline Surveys (2001 -2005).......................................8-1 8.1.2. Preparers of the Updated ESIA (2005-2006) .........................................................8-1

8.2. GLOSSARY OF TERMS ...............................................................................................8-2

8.3. REFERENCES ..............................................................................................................8-7 8.3.1. General ....................................................................................................................8-7 8.3.2. Biology.....................................................................................................................8-8 8.3.3. Water Discharge Modelling .....................................................................................8-9 8.3.4. Noise .......................................................................................................................8-9 8.3.5. Air ..........................................................................................................................8-11 8.3.6. Climatology, Meteorology, Air Quality...................................................................8-11 8.3.7. Marine Biology.......................................................................................................8-12

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8. APPENDICES

8.1. LIST OF PREPARERS 8.1.1. Preparers of the Recent Baseline Surveys (2001 -2005)

• Dutrieux, Eric; Benzoni, F.; Jouvenet J.Y; Thorin, S, from CREOCEAN with the participation of Al Jabli, Fath; Abdulhadi ben Sherbak, Fahmi from EPA, Al Matari Basem and another Yemeni from MAA, Le Douaran, Sylvie, Al-Thary, Ibrahim from YLNG, Coral Survey

• Sinnah, Mohamed from YLNG, Cassard, Remy from CEFAS, Al-Hebshi, Oussama, Al-Mansuri, Salah, archeologists from Aden, Head of GOAM in Shabwah Khayran Al Zubaidi, Archeological survey

• Hitgen, Holger from DAI, Cassard, Remy from CEFAS, Othman, Said Sadeq from GOAM in Marib, Al Zubaidi, Khairan, from GOAM in Shabwa, Al Qadasi, Samir, from GOAM In Sana’a, Archeological survey along the pipeline and photogrametry in Balhaf

• Le Douaran, Sylvie; Fort, Joël from YLNG and Mohsen Sarea Community liaison officer, Socio-economic information along the pipeline

• Mac Alister and Elliott and partners; Akester, Stephen; Zajonz, Uwe; Eisinger, Michael; Morris, Miranda; Susbeih, Omar from Ministry of Fish Wealth in Aden; Obadi, Mohamed; Aref, Mohamed; Ali Habdul, Hamed; Klaus, Rebecca, Fishing consultancy

• A. Klateeb, Najiya; Moqrad, Mohammed from NTDU; Mohammen, Faisal from YLNG CLO; Al Udaini, Mahmoud from Ghayth, Complementary Water Consultancy including in addition to socio-economic aspect preliminary technical study

8.1.2. Preparers of the Updated ESIA (2005-2006)

• From YLNG: Andi-Suliono Wignyo, Firebrace, James, Hashemi Kombiz, Hirst, Robert, Jozan, Marc, Le Douaran, Sylvie, Le Jan, Paul, Sutton, Catherine

• From URS : Baldelli, Gaelle, Fitzsimmons, Robert, Glover, Angela; Magnier Laetitia, Ridley, Belinda, Martin, Emilie, Puz, Gabrielle, Simon, Jean-Michel.

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8.2. GLOSSARY OF TERMS AISI American Iron and Steel Institute

API American Petroleum Institute

ASTM American Society for Testing and Materials

ASME American Society of Mechanical Engineers

AWS American Welding Society

Barg Bar gauge-mode (pressure-unit)

BOD5 Biochemical Oxygen Demand

BSI British Standards Institution

C14 Carbon 14

CCR Central Control Room

CEFAS Centre Français d’Archéologie et de Sciences Sociales de Sanaa

CFC Chlorofluorocarbon

CH4 Methane

CLO Community Liaison Officer

CO Carbon Monoxide

CO2 Carbon dioxide

COD Chemical Oxygen Demand

CP Cathodic Protection

CPI corrugated plate interceptor

CPU Control Processing Unit

CSO Central Statistic organization

CZM Coastal Zone Management

CZMP Coastal Zone Management Process

DA Amine drainage system

DAI Deutsches Archäologisches Institut

dBA The A-weighted decibel scale

DCS Distributed Control System

DOT Department of Transportation (US)

DW Domestic sewer system

E&P Exploration and Production

EIA Environmental Impact Assessment

EMP Environmental Management Plan

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EPA Environment Protection Authority

EPC Environment Protection Council

EPL Environment Protection Law

EPRS Emergency Pipeline Repair System

ERT Emergency Response Team

ESIA Environmental and Social Impact Assessment

ESMP Environmental and Social Management Plan

ESMS Environmental and Social Management System

ETP Effluent Treatment Plant

FAO Food And Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

FCCC Framework Convention on Climate Change

FIP Federal Information Processing Standards

FPA Free Polluted Area

FRC French Red Cross

GDA Global Development Alliance

GGC General Gas Corporation (renamed Yemen Gas Corporation, YGC)

GHG Greenhouse Gas

GOAM The Yemen General Organisation for Antiquities and Museums

GPS Ground Positioning System

HP High Pressure

HSE Health Safety and Environment

Hz Hertz

IFC International Finance Corporation

IMO International Maritime Organization

IPCS Integrated Plant Control System

ISO International Standard Organization

ISPS International Ship and Port Facility Security

KP Kilometric Point

KPU Kamil Processing Unit

kV Kilo Volt

kW K Watt

LAT Lowest Astronomical Tide

Ldn Day-Night Average Noise Level

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Leq Equivalent Noise Level

LNG Liquefied Natural Gas

LP Low Pressure

LPG Liquefied Petroleum Gas (propane and butane)

m.a.s.l. meters above sea level

m.b.s.l meters below sea level

MAA Maritime Affairs Authority

MARPOL International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships

MAWR Ministry of Agriculture and Water Resources

Mboe million barrels of oil equivalent

MCHE Main Cryogenic Heat Exchangers

MD Ministry of Defence

MDEA MethylDiEthanol Amine

MEDEVACs MEDical EVACuation (from the National Naval Medical Center)

MEP MacAlister Elliott and Partners

MFC Ministry of Finance and Customs

MI Ministry of Interior

Mm3 Million cubic meters

MMH Ministry of Municipalities and Housing

MMSCFD Millions of Cubic Feet per Day

MOF Material Offloading Facility

MOH Ministry of Health

MOM Ministry of Oil and Minerals

MOSA Ministry of Social Affairs

MOTE Ministry of Tourism and Environment

MP Medium Pressure

MPA Marine Protected Area

MPF Maximum Probable Flood

MR Mixed Refrigerant

Ms Magnitude scale

MSDS Material Safety Data Sheet

MSL Mean Sea Level

Mtpa Million Ton per annum

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NGO Non-Governmental Organization

N2O Nitrous oxide

NOx, NO2 Nitrogen Oxides, Nitrogen Dioxide

NUP Net Utilized Production

NW Non-contaminated sewer system

ºC degrees Celsius

OGP International Association of Oil and Gas Producers

OW Oily water sewer system

PAP Project Affected People

PCDP Public Consultation and Disclosure Plan

PCMA Public Corporation of Maritime Affairs Authorities

PDRY People’s Democratic Republic of Yemen

PERSGA Regional Convention for the Conservation of the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden

PM particulate matter

PMEFP Protection of Marine Environment from Pollution

POP’s Persistent Organic Pollutants

PPAH Pollution Prevention and Abatement Handbook

ppm Parts per million

PSA Production Sharing Agreement

PSV Pressure Safety Valve

QHSE Quality Health Safety and Environment

ROW Right-Of-Way

ROY Republic Of Yemen

SCADA Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition

SFD Social Fund for Development

SGRDP Southern Governorates Rural Development Project

SHEP Safety, Health and Environmental Protection

SIGTTO Society of International Gas Tankers and Terminals Operators

SLO Site Liaison Officer

SOx, SO2 Sulfur Oxides, Sulfur Dioxide

SPPC Spill Pollution Prevention and Control

TASH Technical Assistance Shabwa

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UNCCD United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification

UNCLOS United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea

UNEP United Nations Environment Programme

USEPA United States Environmental Protection Agency

VOC Volatile Organic Compounds

Wadi Arabic word for river

WHO World Health Organization

WMP Waste Management Plan

YAR Yemen Arab Republic

YGC Yemen Gas Corporation

YLNG Yemen Liquefied Natural Gas Company Limited

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8.3. REFERENCES 8.3.1. General

Canadian Occidental Petroleum Ltd. March, 1993. Masila Export Project - Environmental Studies Programme - Environmental Impact Assessment. Section 2: Terrestrial (Land) Component. Yemen Republic.

Consulting Engineering Services, Private Limited. December, 1993. Safir-Hadramout Road Project - Studies Related to environmental Assessment Feasibility and Detailed Design. Draft, Environmental Assessment Report, Vol.1. Republic of Yemen, Ministry of Construction, General Corporation for Roads and Bridges. New Delhi, India.

Environment Protection Council. March, 1996. National Environmental Action Plan. Sana'a, Republic of Yemen.

Global Environmental & Ocean Sciences. March, 1997. Yemen LNG Project -Long-Term Meteo/Oceanographic Survey at Balhaf Site. Final Interim Report, Vol. 1. Wiltshire, UK.

Global Environmental & Ocean Sciences. June, 1997. Yemen LNG project - Long-Term Meteo/Oceanographic Survey at Balhaf Site. Final Report, Vol. 1. Wiltshire, UK.

Latteux, Bernard, July 2005, LNG Plant of Balhaf : Disposal Study for the MOF Dredged Materials.

MacAlister Elliot and Partners Limited & Marine Sciences Resource Research Centre. December, 1995. Coastal Marine Habitats Survey - Phase I: Preliminary habitat classification and an assessment of the coast's resources, users and impacts. European Commission, Ministry of Fish Wealth.

Republic of Yemen, Prime Minister's Office, Environment Protection Council. June, 1992. National Report. Presented to the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development. Brazil.

Sogreah Ingénierie. January, 1997. LNG Terminal of Balhaf (Yemen) - Shore protection and Thermal Model. Final Report.

Sogreah Ingénierie. February 2000. Balhaf Terminal (Yemen) – Additional Berthing Model Study. Final Report.

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Sogreah Ingénierie. February 2000. Balhaf LNG Terminal Study – Review Of Wave, Navigational And Berthing Study For Defining A Revised Layout . Revised Wind And Offshore Wave Statistics Preliminary Downtime Assessment Of A Modified Jetty Orientation Report R1, November 2004.

Sogreah Ingénierie. February 2000. Balhaf LNG Terminal Study – Review Of Wave, Navigational And Berthing Study For Defining A Revised Layout . Layout Validation Study Report R2, November 2004.

TOTAL. May, 1996. Yemen LNG Project - Project Definition - Pipelines Routes Survey. March-May 96 Report.

TOTAL. May, 1996. Yemen LNG Project - Project Definition - Site Selection Study. Final Report.

June 2001 Socio-Economic Survey, Mareb-Balhaf YLNG Pipeline Project, Draft report, Sana’a, Yemen

Woodward-Clyde. June, 1997. Yemen LNG Project - Terrestrial Environmental Baseline Survey. Baseline Study Report. Lausanne, Switzerland.

Woodward-Clyde. June, 1997. Yemen LNG Project - Coastal Environmental Baseline Survey. Baseline Study Report. Lausanne, Switzerland.

URS, August 2001.– onshore Field Investigation – Yemen LNG Project, Balhaf, Yemen - Final Factual Report, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

8.3.2. Biology

Gabriè, C; Licari M.L. and Mertens D., 1995. L’ètat de l’environment dans les territories français du Pacifique Sud.: La Polynésie française et L’Ile de Clifferton. Ministère de l’Environnement. Institut Français de l’Environnement, 121 p.

IUCN - The World Conservation Union. 1990 IUCN Red List of Threatened Animals. IUCN Publications Services Unit. (UK)

Rands, M.R.W. (Editor), July 1992. Biological Diversity Assessment of the Republic of Yemen. ICBP Study Report Nº52

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Watt I., 1996. IV Fisheries: Coastal habitat survey of the Gulf of Aden. Final Report, Phase II: South Coast of Yemen. Marine Science and Resources Research Center, Aden (Yemen), 45 p.

8.3.3. Water Discharge Modelling

Akar,P. and Jirka,G. (1994): Buoyant spreading processes in pollutant transport and mixing, JHR, 32, 6, IAHR.

Fischer,H.; List,J.; Koh,R.; Imberger,J. and Brooks,N. (1979): Mixing in Inland and Coastal Waters, Academic Press, USA.

Jirka,G. and Akar, P. (1991): Hydrodynamic classification of submerged multiport-diffuser discharges, JHE, 117, 9, ASCE.

Tsanis,I. and Valeo,C. (1994): Mixing Zone Models for Submerged Discharges, Computational Mechanics Publication, UK.

Sogreah Ingénierie. November 2001. Balhaf LNG Project 3D model study on thermal distribution around the outfall and effects on coral reefs. 71 2052 FR Revised 01.

Sogreah Consultants, 9th September 2005, Balhaf LNG Project Complementary 3D Model Study on Thermal Distribution, Draft Report.

8.3.4. Noise

Barry, T.M. and Reagan, J.A., December, 1978, FHWA Highway Traffic Noise Prediction Model, Report number FHWA-RD-77-108, by Federal Highway Administration. Washington, D.C.

Beranek, Leo L., ed. 1971. Noise and Vibration Control. McGraw-Hill, Inc. New York, NY.

Beranek, Leo, (Ed.), 1988, Noise and Vibration Control, Institute of Noise Control Engineering. New York.

Beranek, L.L. and I.L. Ver, eds. 1992. Noise and Vibration Control Engineering. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. New York, NY.

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Bolt, Beranek, and Newman, Inc. 1973. Fundamentals and Abatement of Highway Traffic Noise. US Department of Transportation Contract Number DOT-FH-11-7976, Office of Environmental Policy, Federal Highway Administration.

Bolt, Beranek, and Newman, Inc. 1978. Electric Power Plant Environmental Noise Guide, Volume I, Section 5.3, p. 5-8. Edison Electric Institute, NY, NY.

California, State of, 1976. Guidelines for the Preparation and Content of the Noise Elements of the General Plan. California Department of Health Services, Sacramento, CA

County of Kern. December, 1989. Noise Element of the General Plan. Bakersfield, CA.

Diehl, George M. 1973. Machinery Acoustics. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. New York, NY.

Greene, R.E. July 1993. DEIR/EA, Central Pool Augmentation and Water Quality Project. Report No. 1059, Noise Section 4, p.4-272. Metropolitan Water District of Southern California and US Forest Service. Los Angeles, CA.

Harris, Cyril M., ed. 1979. Handbook of Noise Control. Second Edition. McGraw-Hill, Inc. New York, NY.

Harris, Cyril M., ed. 1991. Handbook of Acoustical Measurements and Noise Control. Third Edition. McGraw-Hill, Inc. New York, NY.

Harris, Cyril M., ed.-in-chief. 1994. Noise Control in Buildings. McGraw-Hill, Inc. New York, NY.

Hassall, J.R. and K. Zaveri. 1988. Acoustic Noise Measurements. Fifth Edition. Brüel and Kjær Instruments, Inc. Copenhagen, Denmark.

Johnson, Robert S., Sr., P.E. August 1991. Noise Prediction Guidelines for Industrial Gas Turbines. Solar Turbines. San Diego, CA.

Peterson, A.P.G. and E. Gross, Jr. 1972. Handbook of Noise Measurement. Seventh Edition. General Radio Company. Concord, MA.

United States Congress, National Environmental Policy Act of 1969; P.L. 91-190, January 1, 1970.

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US Department of Defense, Environmental Protection. June 1978. Planning in the Noise Environment. Air Force Contract F49642-74-90035. Philadelphia, PA.

US Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration, Office of Information. 1980. Noise Control. Washington, DC.

US Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration, Office of Environmental Policy, Noise and Air Analysis Division. August 1990. Highway Traffic Noise Analysis and Abatement. Washington, DC

US Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration, Office of Environmental Policy, Noise and Air Analysis Division, June, 1995. Highway Traffic Noise Guidance and Policies. Washington, D.C.

US Department of Transportation, Federal Transit Administration, April, 1995. Transit Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment. Washington, D.C.

8.3.5. Air

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1995. Compilation of Air Pollutant Emission Factors. Publication AP-42.

Aspen Environmental Group, 1996. Pacific Pipeline Project Final Impact Statement/ Subsequent Environmental Impact Report, Volume 1, Main Document. Prepared for California Utilities Commission USDA, Forest Service, Angeles National Forest.

8.3.6. Climatology, Meteorology, Air Quality Auer, J. H. 1978. Correlation of land use and cover with meteorological anomalies. Journal of Applied Meteorology. 17: 636-643

Institut des Aménagements Régionaux et de L’Environnement, 1997. Synthèse des Connaissances du Milieu Physique- Site de Balhaf- Yemen.

National Climatic Data Center, 1996. Local Climatological Data for International Stations.

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1995 (update). Compilation of Air Pollutant Emission Factors, Document AP-42

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U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1987. Supplement A to the Guideline on Air Quality Models (revised). Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1986 Guideline on Air Quality Models, Revised. Office of Air Quality Standards and Planning.

8.3.7. Marine Biology

Reference 1 - Project brief for GEF funded PERSGA CZM project under Operational Program (OP#2), part of the Strategic Action Programme for the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, PERSGA, 1997.

Reference 2 - “Coral Reefs in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden – Surveys 1990 – 2000 Summary and Recommendations” PERSGA Technical Series no 7, 2003.

Reference 3 – Zajonz, U and Klaus, R “Coastal Zone Management Project in the Gulf of Aden, Public Consultation - Draft Zoning Scheme”

Reference 4 - Kemp, J, Salem, M, Klaus, R, et al “Survey of the Proposed Marine Protected Area at Belhaf – Bir Ali, Republic of Yemen”, PERSGA, 2002.

Reference 5 – CREOCEAN, Environmental Assessment of the Marine Area - Balhaf, final Report, November 2005.

Documents

Yemen LNG Project Environmental and Social Impact …43683552-1903 REVISION 1 Date : 10 February 2006 Yemen LNG Company ltd Yemen LNG Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment