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Author signature |
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Certified by |
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|
Name |
Joe Ho |
Name |
F. C. Tsang |
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Title |
Environmental Team Consultant |
Title |
Environmental Team Leader |
1.2 Construction Works Programme
1.4 Construction Works Programme and Construction Works Area
1.5 Summary of Environmental Status
2.3 Monitoring Parameter and Frequency
2.4 Sampling Depths & Replication
2.8 Action and Limit Level for Water Quality Monitoring
2.10 Results and Observations. 14
3.2 Noise Monitoring Parameter, Frequency and Duration
3.3 Monitoring Equipment, Methodology and QA / QC Procedure
3.4 Maintenance and Calibration
3.5 Action and Limit Levels. 18
3.6 Results and Observations. 18
4.2 Habitat Compensation for the Affected Riverine Habitat
7.2 Results and Observations. 24
9 Environmental Site Inspection and Audit
9.1 Implementation Status of Environmental Mitigation Measures
10 Summary of Monitoring Exceedance, Complaints, Notification of Summons and Prosecutions
10.2 Summary of Environmental Non-Compliance
10.3 Summary of Environmental Complaint
10.4 Summary of Environmental Summon and Successful Prosecution
11.1 Works and Potential Environmental Issues in the next Reporting Period
12.2 Comments/ Recommendations
Appendices
Appendix
1.1 Construction Programme
Appendix
1.2 Project Organization Chart
Appendix 1.3 Implementation Status of Environmental Mitigation Measure
Appendix 2.1 Calibration Certificates of Impact Water Quality Monitoring Equipment
Appendix 2.2 Event and Action Plan for Water Quality Exceedance
Appendix 2.3 Impact Monitoring Schedule of the Reporting Month
Appendix 2.4 Impact Water Quality Monitoring Data
Appendix 3.1 Calibration Certificates of Impact Noise Monitoring Equipment
Appendix 3.2 Event and Action Plan for Noise Exceedance
Appendix 3.3 Impact Noise Monitoring Data
Appendix 11.1 Impact Monitoring Schedule of Next Reporting Month
Figures
Figure 1.1 General Site Location Plan
Figure 1.2 Location
of Work Areas for the Project
Figure 2.1 Impact Water
Quality Monitoring Locations
Figure 3.1 Impact Noise
Monitoring Locations
Figure 8.1 Area for Archaeological
Survey
Tables
Table A1 Summary of EM&A activities in the Reporting Period
Table A2 Summary of Exceedances in the Reporting Period
Table 1.1 Parties Involved in Project Organisation
Table 1.2 Status of Environmental License, Notifications and Permits
Table 1.3 Summary of Status for Key Environmental Aspects under the Approved EM&A Manual
Table 2.1 Summary of Impact Water Quality Monitoring Stations
Table 2.2 Parameters measured in the Impact Water Quality Monitoring
Table 2.3 Water Quality Monitoring Equipment
Table 2.4 Method for Laboratory Analysis for Water Samples
Table 2.5 Action and Limit Levels for Water Quality
Table 2.6 Action and Limit Levels of Water Quality
Table 2.7 Summary of Exceedance Records of Water Quality Monitoring
Table 2.8 Summary of Exceedance Records of Water Quality Monitoring
Table 3.1 Noise Monitoring Stations during Construction Phase
Table 3.2 Construction Noise Monitoring Parameter, Frequency and Duration
Table 3.3 Construction Noise Monitoring Equipment
Table 3.4 Action and Limit Levels for Construction Noise Monitoring
Table 3.5 Summary of Construction Noise Monitoring Results
Table 3.6 Influencing Factors at Noise Monitoring Stations
Table 8.1 Mitigation Measures for Impacted Graded Historic Buildings
Table 9.1 Site Inspection Record
Executive Summary
A1. This is the first Monthly Environmental Monitoring and Audit (EM&A) Report for Drainage Improvement Works Near Four Villages in Yuen Long (the Project). This report was prepared by Aurecon Hong Kong Limited under Contract No. DC/2022/02 Drainage Improvement Works at Yuen Long – Stage 2 (hereinafter called the “Contract”). This report documents the findings of EM&A works during the reporting period from 20 to 29 February 2024.
A2. The project construction was commenced on 20 February 2024 and the construction phase EM&A programme started on 20 February 2024.
Key Construction Works in the Reporting Period
A3. A summary of construction activities undertaken during the reporting period is presented below:
§ Lifting Operation;
§ Plant Operation;
§ Excavation; and
§ Sheet Piling
Environmental Monitoring and Audit Programme
A4. The monthly EM&A programme was undertaken by the ET in accordance with the approved EM&A Manual. A summary of the monitoring and audit activities during the reporting period is presented in Table A1.
Table A1 Summary of EM&A activities in the Reporting Period
|
EM&A Activities |
Date |
|
Water Quality Monitoring |
21, 23, 26 and 28 February 2024 |
|
Noise Monitoring |
23 February 2024 |
|
Weekly Environmental Site Inspection |
21 and 28 February 2024 |
Breaches of Action and Limit Levels
A5. Summary of the environmental exceedances of the reporting month is tabulated in Table A2.
Table A2 Summary of Exceedances in the Reporting Period
|
Environmental Monitoring |
Parameter |
No. of non-project related exceedances |
Total No. of non-project related exceedances |
No. of exceedances related to the the project |
Total No. of exceedance related to the project |
||
|
AL |
LL |
AL |
LL |
||||
|
Water Quality |
DO |
0 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Turbidity |
0 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
|
SS |
0 |
2 |
2 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
|
Noise |
Leq(30mins) |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
Water Quality
A6. All water quality monitoring was conducted as scheduled in the reporting period. Two (2) limit level exceedances for SS, one (1) limit level exceedance for turbidity, and one (1) limit level exceedance of DO during impact water quality monitoring were recorded. After investigation, all exceedances were considered non-project related.
Noise
A7. No Action Level or Limit Level exceedance was recorded for construction noise monitoring in the reporting period.
Complaint Log
A8. No environmental complaint was received in the reporting period.
Notification of Summons and Successful Prosecutions
A9. No notification of summons or successful prosecutions was received in the reporting period.
Reporting Changes
A10. There was no reporting change in the reporting period.
Future Key Issues
A11. The major site activities for the next reporting period are summarized below:
§ Lifting Operation;
§ Plant Operation;
§ Excavation;
§ Sheet Piling; and
§ Installation of Precast unit
1
Introduction
1.1
Project
Background
1.1.1
The Drainage Master Plan
Studies for the Yuen Long, Kam Tin, Ngau Tam Mei and Tin Shui Wai Drainage
Basin (YLDMP) were completed in 1998. The majority of
the improvement works in Yuen Long and Kam Tin recommended under the YLDMP
Study have been completed. Since completion of the DMP Studies, there have been
changes in developments within the areas and new development proposals and town
planning studies were commissioned. In addition, some new flooding complaints
were received at the upstream areas of the drainage basins, indicating that
further improvement to the drainage systems was required.
1.1.2
The Drainage
Services Department (DSD) commissioned the “Review of Drainage Master Plans in
Yuen Long and North Districts – Feasibility Study” (the Review Study) in 2008
so that the new development scenarios could be incorporated and the
effectiveness of the previously recommended works could also be assessed. The
Review Study completed in end 2011 identified that some areas in Yuen Long
District could not meet the required flood protection level according to the
latest land use changes and future developments taking into account various
factors, including sedimentation at the downstream main channels, mangrove
growth at river estuaries, updated extreme sea level statistics
at Tsim Bei Tsui and projected climate change impacts, in the
hydraulic analysis. To account for the severity and extent of possible flooding
and the works implementation time, the Review Study proposed drainage
improvement works in Yuen Long District.
1.1.3
Atkins China Ltd
(ACL) was commissioned by the DSD in November 2013 to undertake an
Investigation, Design and Construction Consultancy entitled “Agreement No. CE
22/2013 (DS) Drainage Improvement Works in Yuen Long, Stage 1 – Investigation,
Design and Construction” (hereinafter called the Assignment). The Project
comprises construction of drainage improvement works to four villages (namely
Sung Shan New Village, Tai Wo, Lin Fa Tei and Ha Che) including
landscaping, waterscaping, utilities diversion, temporary traffic
arrangements, re-provisioning / improvements to existing dry weather flow
intercepting system and any other works incidental to the completion of the
Project.
1.1.4
An Environmental
Impact Assessment (EIA) Study Brief (ESB-279/2014) for four villages namely Ha
Che, Tai Wo, Lin Fa Tei and Sung Shan New Village which is a
designated project was issued by the Environmental Protection Department (EPD)
on 14 October 2014.
1.1.5
The EIA Report for
Drainage Improvement Works Near Four Villages in Yuen Long – Sung Shan New
Village, Tai Wo, Lin Fa Tei and Ha Che (referred to as “the Project”) (Register
No. AEIAR-229/2021) was approved on 3 June 2021 and the Environmental Permit
(EP) EP-596/2021, covering the Upgrading, Construction and Deepening of the
Project was granted on 28 September 2021.
1.1.6
Aurecon Hong Kong
Limited (Aurecon) is commissioned by the Wing Tat Civil Engineering Co. Limited
to undertake the Environmental Team (ET) services and carry out the
Environmental Monitoring and Audit (EM&A) for Drainage Improvement Works
Near Four Villages in Yuen Long - Sung Shan New Village, Tai Wo, Lin Fa Tei and
Ha Che (Register No. EP-596/2021).
1.1.7
This is the 1st
Monthly EM&A Report summarizing the key findings of the construction phase
EM&A programme from 20 February to 29 February 2024 (the reporting period)
and is submitted to fulfil the requirements in Condition 4.4 of EP-596/2021 and
Section 12.2 of the approved EM&A Manual of the Project.
1.2
Construction
Works Programme
1.2.1
The construction
programme and the location plan of the Project are shown in Appendix 1.1 and Figure 1.1 respectively. The
locations of the proposed drainage improvement works at
the four villages are presented in Figures 1.2a to Figures 1.2d.
1.3
Project
Organisation
1.3.1
Involvement of
relevant parties in a collaborative and interactive manner is essential for the
implementation of the recommended EM&A programme. The following sections
outline the primary responsibilities and duties of the key EM&A programme
participants. The lines of communication with respect to EM&A works are
shown in Diagram 1.1.
Diagram 1.1 Organisation Chart
1.3.2
Parties with
different levels of involvement in the Project organisation are
summarized in Table 1.1.
Table 1.1 Parties Involved in Project Organisation
|
Parties |
Organization / Company |
|
Project Proponent |
Drainage Services Department |
|
Supervisor / Engineer’s Representative (ER) |
Atkins China Ltd |
|
Contractor |
Wing Tat Civil Engineering Co. Limited |
|
Environmental Team (ET) |
Aurecon Hong Kong Limited |
|
Independent Environmental Checker (IEC) |
Mott MacDonald Hong Kong Limited |
1.3.3
The key personnel
contact names and numbers are summarized in Appendix 1.2.
1.4
Construction
Works Programme and Construction Works Area
1.4.1
The construction
works commenced on 20 February 2024. The construction works programme
and the construction works area of the Project are shown in Appendix 1.1 and Figure 1.1 respectively. A
summary of construction activities undertaken during this reporting period is
presented below:
Ha Che
§ Lifting Operation;
§ Plant Operation;
§ Excavation; and
§ Sheet Piling
1.5
Summary
of Environmental Status
1.5.1 A summary of the relevant permits,
licences, and/or notifications on environmental protection for this Project is
presented in Table 1.2.
Table 1.2 Status of Environmental License, Notifications and Permits
|
Permit / License No. |
Valid Period |
Status |
|
|
From |
To |
||
|
Environmental Permit |
|||
|
EP-596/2021 |
28/09/2021 |
N/A |
Valid |
|
Notification pursuant to Air Pollution Control (Construction Dust) Regulation |
|||
|
Ref. Number: 497623 |
29/09/2023 |
N/A |
Valid |
|
Billing Account for Disposal of Construction Waste |
|||
|
7048880 |
18/10/2023 |
N/A |
Valid |
|
Registration of Chemical Waste Producer |
|||
|
5213-526-W3771-01 |
02/11/2023 |
N/A |
Valid |
|
Effluent Discharge License under Water Pollution Control Ordinance |
|||
|
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Under application |
1.5.2
The status for all
environmental aspects is presented in Table 1.3.
1.5.3 The EM&A programme has been
implemented in accordance with the recommendations presented in the approved
EIA Report and the approved EM&A Manual. A summary of implementation status
of the environmental mitigation measures for the construction phase of the Project
during the reporting period is provided in Appendix 1.3.
Table 1.3 Summary of Status for Key Environmental Aspects under the Approved EM&A Manual
|
The baseline water quality monitoring results have been reported in Baseline Monitoring Report and submitted to EPD under EP Condition 4.3. |
|
|
Up to the end of the reporting period, the baseline noise monitoring results for Ha Che have been reported in the Baseline Monitoring Report and submitted to the EPD under EP Condition 4.3. Baseline noise monitoring results for Tai Wo, Lin Fa Tei, and Sung Shan New Village will be further updated in the Baseline Monitoring Report and submitted to the EPD. |
|
|
The first draft of HCMP was submitted to the EPD and the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) on 22 December 2023. Following comments from the EPD and AFCD dated 17 January 2024, the HCMP is pending for further revision. |
|
|
No suspected contamination was observed or reported by the Contractor in the reporting period. |
|
|
|
|
|
The first draft of LVMP was submitted to the EPD, the AFCD and the Planning Department (PlanD) on 22 December 2023. Following comments from the EPD, AFCD and PlanD on 7 February 2024, the LVMP is pending for further revision. |
|
|
Weekly Site Audit |
|
|
Archaeological Survey will be carried out at site area within Lin Fa Tei of Archaeological Interest. |
|
|
Site Inspection covering Measures of Air Quality, Noise, Water Quality, Waste, Land Contamination, Ecological Quality, Landscape and Visual Impacts and Cultural Heritage |
|
2
Water
Quality
2.1
Monitoring
Requirement
2.1.1
In accordance with
the approved EM&A Manual, impact water quality monitoring should be carried
out three days per week at all designated monitoring stations during the
construction period. The interval between two sets of monitoring should
not be less than 36 hours.
2.1.2
Replicate in-situ
measurements of dissolved oxygen (DO), temperature, turbidity, pH, and suspended
solids (SS) for each independent sampling event shall be collected to ensure a
robust statistically interpretable database.
2.2
Monitoring
Location
2.2.1
Impact water
quality monitoring was conducted at 6 monitoring stations which is summarized
in Table 2.1.
The location of water quality monitoring stations is shown in Figure 2.1a to Figure 2.1d.
Table 2.1 Summary of Impact Water Quality Monitoring Stations
|
Stream |
Monitoring ID |
Coordinates (HK Grid) |
Remarks |
|
|
Easting |
Northing |
|||
|
SSNV |
C1A (1) |
821702 |
831945 |
Alternative Impact Monitoring Point |
|
C2 |
822459 |
831470 |
Control Monitoring Point |
|
|
C3A (2) |
822413 |
831284 |
Alternative Control Monitoring Point |
|
|
TW |
C4 |
825497 |
830664 |
Control Monitoring Point |
|
C5 |
825486 |
830716 |
Impact Monitoring Point |
|
|
LFT |
C6 |
827232 |
831713 |
Control Monitoring Point |
|
C7A (3) |
826865 |
832115 |
Alternative Control Monitoring Point |
|
|
C8 |
826513 |
832075 |
Impact Monitoring Point |
|
|
HC |
C9 |
828304 |
835029 |
Control Monitoring Point |
|
C10 |
827919 |
834271 |
Impact Monitoring Point |
|
Notes:
(1) At Station C1, access to safe sampling of water is not feasible due to steep banks on both sides of the stream channel. An alternative monitoring location is proposed at Station C1A, which is about 250 m along the same stream channel downstream of Station C1 and is accessible for safe water sampling.
(2) During the first day of baseline monitoring at Station C3, shallow water was observed, and the ET could not sample enough water for monitoring. As agreed by the ER, the Contractor, and the IEC, a new sampling location, Station C3A, was identified at about 130 m upstream and was accessible for water sampling.
(3) For Station C7, the location is not close to the nearest, revised works boundary (about 200 m away). An alternative monitoring location is proposed at Station C7A, which is about 23 m upstream of the nearest, revised works boundary.
2.3
Monitoring
Parameter and Frequency
2.3.1
The monitoring
parameters, frequency and duration of impact water quality monitoring are
listed in Table 2.2.
Table 2.2 Parameters measured in the Impact Water Quality Monitoring
|
Parameter |
Frequency |
Duration |
|
Dissolved oxygen (DO), temperature, turbidity, salinity, pH, stream water depth and suspended solids (SS) |
3 days in a week |
Throughout the construction phase |
2.3.2
Monitoring
location and position, time, sampling depth, weather conditions and any special
phenomena or work underway nearby are recorded during the impact monitoring.
2.4
Sampling
Depths & Replication
2.4.1
During impact
water quality monitoring, each station was sampled. Due to a shallow water
depth (less than 3 m) with low flow rates in rivers, all the monitoring would
be located at mid-depth level.
2.4.2
Duplicate water
samples were collected at each sampling depth for laboratory measurement of SS.
Samples were stored in high density polythene bottles, packed in ice
(cooled to 4 °C without being frozen), and delivered to the laboratory on the
same day of collection for analysis.
2.5
Monitoring
Equipment
2.5.1
The measurement of
DO, temperature, turbidity, salinity, pH and stream water depth were undertaken
in-situ. In-situ monitoring instruments in compliance with the specifications
listed under Section 6.3 of the approved EM&A Manual were adopted to
undertake the water quality monitoring for the Project. Water quality
monitoring equipment with the following specifications shall be supplied and
maintained by the ET.
Dissolved Oxygen and Temperature Measuring Equipment
2.5.2
The instrument for
measuring dissolved oxygen and temperature should be portable and weatherproof
complete with cable, sensor, and use DC power source. The equipment was capable
of measuring:
§ A dissolved oxygen level in the range of 0 – 20 mg/L and 0 – 200% saturation; and
§ The temperature within 0 – 45 °C.
2.5.3
It should have a
membrane electrode with automatic temperature compensation connected with a
cable. Sufficient stocks of spare electrodes and cables should be available for
replacement where necessary (e.g. YSI model 59 meter, YSI 5739 probe, YSI 5795A
submersible stirrer with reel and cable or an approved similar instrument).
pH
2.5.4
pH meter (e.g.
Hanna – HI 9024 or equivalent) should be used to measure pH value of water
samples in-situ. It should be readable to 0.1 pH in a range of 0 to
14. Standard buffer solutions of at least pH 7 to pH 10 shall be used for
calibration of the instrument before and after use.
Turbidity Measurement Equipment
2.5.5
The instrument
should be a portable, weatherproof turbidity-measuring instrument with a
comprehensive operation manual. The equipment should use a DC power
source. It should have a photoelectric sensor capable of measuring
turbidity between 0 – 1000 NTU and be equipped with a cable (e.g. Hach model
2100P or an approved similar instrument).
Suspended Solids
2.5.6
A water sampler
should comprise a transparent PVC cylinder, with a capacity of not less than 2
litres, and should be effectively sealed with latex cups at both ends. The
sampler should have a positive latching system to keep it open and prevent
premature closure until released by a messenger when the sampler is at the
selected water depth (e.g. Kahlsico Water Sampler or an approved similar
instrument).
2.5.7
Water samples for
suspended solids measurement shall be collected in high density polythene
bottles, packed in ice (chilled to 4 °C without being frozen), and delivered to
the laboratory as soon as possible after collection.
Water Depth Detector
2.5.8
A portable,
battery-operated echo sounder should be used for determining water depth at
each designated monitoring station.
2.5.9
For shallow water
(less than 1 m deep), a portable water depth ruler will be used to measure
water depth.
Monitoring Position Equipment
2.5.10
A hand-held or
boat-fixed digital Global Positioning System (GPS) or other equivalent instrument
of similar accuracy shall be provided and used during water quality monitoring
to ensure the water sampling locations are correct during water quality
monitoring work.
Water Sampling Equipment
2.5.11
A transparent PVC
or glass cylinder, which has a volume of not less than 2 litres and can be
sealed at both ends with cups, should be equipped with a positive latching
system. During the water sampling, a messenger is released to trigger the
closure of the water sampler at suitable water depth.
2.5.12
For sampling
location with shallow water depth, plastic bucket would be used instead.
Calibration of In-situ Instruments
2.5.13
All in-situ monitoring
instruments should be checked, calibrated and certified by a laboratory
accredited under HOKLAS or another international accreditation scheme before
use, and subsequently re-calibrated at 3-monthly intervals throughout all
stages of the water quality monitoring. Responses of sensors and electrodes
should be checked with certified standard solutions before each use. Wet bulb
calibration for a DO meter should be carried out before measurement at each
monitoring location.
2.5.14
For the on-site
calibration of field equipment, the BS 127:1993, Guide to Field and On-Site
Test Methods for the Analysis of Water should be observed.
Back-up Equipment
2.5.15
Sufficient stocks
of spare parts should be maintained for replacements when necessary. Backup
monitoring equipment shall also be made available so that monitoring can
proceed uninterruptedly even when some equipment is under maintenance,
calibration, etc.
2.5.16
Table 2.3 summarizes the equipment used in
the water quality monitoring programme. Copies of the calibration certificates
of multi-parameter water quality monitoring system are shown in Appendix 2.1.
Table 2.3 Water Quality Monitoring Equipment
|
Equipment |
Model |
Quantity |
Serial No. |
Parameter |
Range |
Accuracy |
|
Water Sampler |
Wildco 2.2L Water Sampler with messenger or plastic bucket (used in shallow water depth) |
1 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
|
Multi-functional Water Quality Meter |
YSI ProDSS (multi-parameters) |
2 |
22D100436 and 22C106561 |
Dissolved Oxygen (DO) |
0 to 500% |
· 0 to 200%: ±1% of reading · 200 to 500%: ±8% of reading |
|
0 to 50 mg/L |
· 0 to 20 mg/L: ±0.1 mg/L or 1% of reading, whichever is greater · 20 to 50 mg/L: ±8% of reading |
|||||
|
Temperature |
-5 to 50 °C |
±0.2 °C |
||||
|
pH |
0 to 14 pH units |
±0.2 pH units |
||||
|
Turbidity |
0 to 4000 NTU |
· 0 to 999 NTU: 0.3 NTU or ±2% of reading, whichever is greater · 1000 to 4000 NTU: ±5% of reading |
||||
|
Water Depth Ruler |
鼎峯0708 |
1 |
NA* |
Water depth |
0 – 7 m (Used for water depth less than 1 m) |
±0.01 m |
|
Positioning Equipment |
Garmin (GPSmap 78s) |
1 |
1WL223754 |
Positioning |
N/A |
GPS: ±1m |
2.6
Monitoring
Methodology
2.6.1
Water samples were
collected at an appropriate water depth using a sealable transparent PVC or
glass cylinder. For locations with shallow water depth, a plastic bucket
was used as an alternative. Usually, water was then transferred to the sample
bottles until they were filled to the top with no remaining air space before
the lid was securely screwed on. For samples that were preserved with
acid or alkalis prior to transport to the laboratory, the samples bottles were
filled to the level specified by the analytical laboratory.
2.6.2 Multi-functional water quality meters were checked,
calibrated and certified by Quality Pro Test-Consult Limited (HOKLAS reg no.
259) before use, and would be subsequently re-calibrated at 3-monthly intervals
throughout all stages of the water quality monitoring. Responses of
sensors and electrodes should be checked with certified standard solutions
before each use. Wet bulb calibration for a DO meter should be carried out
before measurement at each monitoring location. For the on-site calibration
of field equipment, the BS 127:1993, Guide to Field and On-Site Test Methods
for the Analysis of Water should be observed.
2.6.3 Water samples for suspended solids
measurement were collected in high density polythene bottles, packed in ice
(chilled to 4 °C being frozen), and delivered to the laboratory as soon as
possible after collection.
2.6.4 Water sampling equipment deployed
during the monitoring programme was decontaminated by manual washing and rinsed
with clean distilled water after each sampling location.
2.6.5
All sampling
bottles were labelled with the sample ID (including the indication of sampling
station), laboratory number and sampling date. Water samples were dispatched to
the testing laboratory for analysis as soon as possible after the sampling.
All samples were stored in a cool box and kept at less than 4 °C but
without frozen. All water samples were handled under chain of custody protocols
and relinquished to the laboratory representatives at locations specified by
the laboratory. The laboratory determination works started within 24 hours
after collection of water samples.
Laboratory Analytical Methods
2.6.6
Analysis of SS was
carried out by a HOKLAS accredited laboratory (Acumen Laboratory and Testing
Limited). At least two replicate samples from each independent sampling
event were collected for the SS measurement. Sufficient water samples
(about 3,000 mL) were collected at the monitoring stations for carrying out the
laboratory SS determination. The analytical method for suspended solids
is presented in Table 2.4.
Table 2.4 Method for Laboratory Analysis for Water Samples
|
Parameters |
Analytical Method |
Detection Limit |
|
Suspended Solid (SS) |
APHA 17ed 2540-D (1) |
1 mg/L or better |
Note:
(1) APHA American Public Health Association Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater.
2.7
QA/QC
Requirements
Decontamination Procedures
2.7.1
Water sampling
equipment used during the course of the monitoring process
was decontaminated by manual washing and rinsed with distilled water after each
sampling event. All of the disposable components/
accessories were discarded after sampling.
Sampling Management and Supervision
2.7.2
All sampling
bottles were labelled with the sample ID numbers (including the sampling
station), and sampling date. Water samples were dispatched to the testing
laboratory for analysis as soon as possible. All the collected samples were
stored in a cool box to keep the temperature less than 4 as possible after the
sampling. All samples were stored in a cool box and kept at less than 4
°C but without frozen. All water samples were handled under chain of
custody protocols and relinquished to the laboratory representatives at
locations specified by the laboratory.
Quality Control Measures for Sample Testing
2.7.3
Quality control of
laboratory analysis of water samples was performed by Acumen Laboratory and
Testing Limited for every batch of 20 samples:
§ One method blank; and
§ One set of QC sample
2.8
Action
and Limit Level for Water Quality Monitoring
2.8.1
The criteria of
action and limit levels for water quality monitoring are defined in Table 2.5.
Table 2.5 Action and Limit Levels for Water Quality
|
Action Level |
Limit Level |
|
|
DO in mg/L |
< 5%-ile of baseline data |
< 4 mg/L or < 1%-ile of baseline data |
|
SS in mg/L |
> 95%-ile of baseline data or >120% of upstream control station of the same day |
> 99%-ile of baseline data or 130% of upstream control station of the same day |
|
Turbidity in NTU |
> 95%-ile of baseline data or >120% of upstream control station of the same day |
> 99%-ile of baseline data or > 130% of upstream control station of the same day |
(1) For DO, non-compliance of the water quality limit occurs when monitoring result is lower than the limit.
(2) For SS and turbidity, non-compliance of the water quality limit occurs when monitoring result is higher than the limit.
(3) All the figures given in the table are used for reference only and the EPD may amend the figures whenever it is considered necessary.
2.8.2
Based on the
criteria listed in Table 2.5,
the action and limit levels for water quality are determined in Table 2.6.
Table 2.6 Action and Limit Levels of Water Quality
|
Monitoring ID |
Parameters |
Action |
Limit |
|
|
SSNV |
C1A |
DO in mg/L |
6.72 |
4 (1) |
|
SS in mg/L |
7.3 or >120% of upstream control station of the same day |
8.5 or > 130% of upstream control station of the same day |
||
|
Turbidity in NTU |
10.37 or >120% of upstream control station of the same day |
10.81 or > 130% of upstream control station of the same day |
||
|
TW |
C5 |
DO in mg/L |
8.36 |
4 (2) |
|
SS in mg/L |
9.9 or > 120% of upstream control station of the same day |
10.0 or > 130% of upstream control station of the same day |
||
|
Turbidity in NTU |
13.64 or > 120% of upstream control station of the same day |
13.87 or > 130% of upstream control station of the same day |
||
|
LFT |
C8 |
DO in mg/L |
5.38 |
4 (3) |
|
SS in mg/L |
6.3 or > 120% of upstream control station of the same day |
7.0 or > 130% of upstream control station of the same day |
||
|
Turbidity in NTU |
12.46 or > 120% of upstream control station of the same day |
12.94 or > 130% of upstream control station of the same day |
||
|
HC |
C10 |
DO in mg/L |
2.55 |
2.43 (4) |
|
SS in mg/L |
8.7 or > 120% of upstream control station of the same day |
8.8 or > 130% of upstream control station of the same day |
||
|
Turbidity in NTU |
20.06 or > 120% of upstream control station of the same day |
21.07 or > 130% of upstream control station of the same day |
(1) The 1%-ile of baseline DO data at C1A is 6.61 mg/L, which is higher than 4 mg/L. Thus, DO concentration of 4 mg/L, which is in line with the Water Quality Objectives, is adopted as the limit level.
(2) The 1%-ile of baseline DO data at C5 is 8.09 mg/L, which is higher than 4 mg/L. Thus, DO concentration of 4 mg/L, which is in line with the Water Quality Objectives, is adopted as the limit level.
(3) The 1%-ile of baseline DO data at C8 is 5.36 mg/L, which is higher than 4 mg/L. Thus, DO concentration of 4 mg/L, which is in line with the Water Quality Objectives, is adopted as the limit level.
(4) The 1%-ile of baseline DO data at C10 is 2.43 mg/L, which is lower than 4 mg/L. Taking account of the baseline water quality condition and to minimise any false alarm of water quality deterioration during construction phase, DO concentration of 2.43 mg/L is adopted as the limit level.
2.9
Event
and Action Plan
2.9.1 Should any non-compliance of the
criteria occur, action in accordance with the Event and Action Plan in Appendix 2.2 shall be followed. Investigation
of the exceedances of environmental quality performance limits should be
conducted, and the ET will immediately notify the IEC and EPD, as
appropriate. The notification should be followed up with advice to the
IEC and EPD on the results of the investigation, proposed actions and success
of the action taken, with any necessary follow-up proposals.
2.10
Results
and Observations
2.10.1
All water quality monitoring
was conducted as scheduled in the reporting month. The water quality monitoring
schedule for this reporting month is shown in Appendix 2.3. The monitoring results
and graphical presentation of water quality monitoring at the monitoring
stations are shown in Appendix 2.4.
2.10.2 Since construction works were only
carried out at Ha Che during the reporting period, impact water quality
monitoring was only carried out at monitoring points located at Ha Che (i.e. C9
and C10).
2.10.3 During the reporting month, two (2)
limit level exceedances for SS were recorded, one (1) limit level exceedance
for turbidity were recorded, and one (1) limit level exceedance of DO during
impact water quality monitoring were recorded. Summaries of exceedance
records are shown in Table 2.7
and Table 2.8.
Table 2.7 Summary of Exceedance Records of Water Quality Monitoring
|
Date |
Station |
Parameter (Unit) |
Averaged Measured Value |
Exceedance |
Exceedances due to the Project |
|
|
Action Level (AL) |
Limit Level (LL) |
|||||
|
21/02
|
C9 |
DO (mg/L) |
7.78 |
|
|
N/A |
|
C10 |
1.25 |
|
ü |
No |
||
|
C9 |
Turbidity (NTU) |
10.9 |
|
|
N/A |
|
|
C10 |
76.6 |
|
ü |
No |
||
|
C9 |
SS (mg/L) |
16.5 |
|
|
N/A |
|
|
C10 |
45.5 |
|
ü |
No |
||
|
22/02 (1) |
C9 |
DO (mg/L) |
7.61 |
|
|
N/A |
|
C10 |
3.07 |
|
|
No |
||
|
C9 |
Turbidity (NTU) |
5.47 |
|
|
N/A |
|
|
C10 |
8.14 |
|
|
No |
||
|
23/02 |
C9 |
DO (mg/L) |
7.85 |
|
|
N/A |
|
C10 |
3.28 |
|
|
N/A |
||
|
C9 |
Turbidity (NTU) |
7.4 |
|
|
N/A |
|
|
C10 |
10.6 |
|
|
N/A |
||
|
C9 |
SS (mg/L) |
5.5 |
|
|
N/A |
|
|
C10 |
5.0 |
|
|
N/A |
||
|
26/02
|
C9 |
DO (mg/L) |
8.49 |
|
|
N/A |
|
C10 |
2.98 |
|
|
N/A |
||
|
C9 |
Turbidity (NTU) |
7.3 |
|
|
N/A |
|
|
C10 |
7.0 |
|
|
N/A |
||
|
C9 |
SS (mg/L) |
13.0 |
|
|
N/A |
|
|
C10 |
5.0 |
|
|
N/A |
||
|
28/02
|
C9 |
DO (mg/L) |
8.32 |
|
|
N/A |
|
C10 |
3.70 |
|
|
N/A |
||
|
C9 |
Turbidity (NTU) |
7.5 |
|
|
N/A |
|
|
C10 |
9.4 |
|
|
N/A |
||
|
C9 |
SS (mg/L) |
12.5 |
|
|
N/A |
|
|
C10 |
32.5 |
|
ü |
No |
||
Note:
Additional monitoring was carried out on 22 February 2024 due to the LL exceedances of DO and turbidity recorded on 21 February 2024.
Table 2.8 Summary of Exceedance Records of Water Quality Monitoring
|
Parameter |
No. of non-project related exceedances |
Total No. of non-project related exceedances |
No. of exceedance related to the Project |
Total No. of exceedance related to the Project |
||
|
AL |
LL |
AL |
LL |
|||
|
Dissolved Oxygen |
0 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Turbidity |
0 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Suspended Solids |
0 |
2 |
2 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
2.10.4
After confirmation
of exceedance of the water quality monitoring results, ET has issued
Notification of Exceedance (NOE) to inform relevant parties (i.e., EPD, ER, IEC
and Contractor) about the exceedances. After investigation, all action and
limit level exceedances recorded during the reporting period were considered
non-project related.
2.10.5 Exceedances of
limit levels on DO, turbidity and SS were recorded during the regular
monitoring at C10 on 21 February 2024. The frequency of monitoring was
increased to daily at C9 and C10 starting from 22 February 2024. As no further
exceedances of action or limit levels were observed on the monitoring results
of 23 February 2024, the frequency of monitoring was resumed to normal (regular
monitoring) after 23 February 2024. Three sets of geotextiles were deployed at
the work areas as the mitigation measure for preventing contaminated site
runoff. Since there were no construction works carried out at Ha Che on
21 February 2024 and no deficiency in mitigation measures for preventing site
runoff were observed during the follow-up site inspection on 23 February 2024,
it is considered that the exceedances of limit levels of DO, turbidity and SS
are not related to the Project.
2.10.6 Exceedance of
limit level on SS was recorded during the regular monitoring at C10 on 28
February 2024. Two sets of geotextiles were properly deployed onsite and a water bypass was deployed to direct river water
from the upstream of work area to the downstream of work area. Since sufficient
measures for preventing contamination of downstream water were well implemented
and no deficiency in mitigation measures for preventing site runoff was
observed during weekly site inspection on 28 February 2024, it is considered
that the exceedance of limit level of SS is not related to the Project.
3
Noise
3.1
Monitoring
Locations
3.1.1
The monitoring
locations for construction noise monitoring are listed in Table 3.1 and shown in Figure 3.1a
to Figure 3.1d.
Table 3.1 Noise Monitoring Stations during Construction Phase
|
ID No. (1) |
Location |
Nature of Uses |
Type of Measurement |
|
SSNV_M2 |
Village house next to a nullah in Tong Tai Po Tsuen (near DD118 1720 S.A) |
Residential |
Façade |
|
SSNV_M3 |
Village house near a soybean sauce factory in Sung Shan New Village (near DD118 1712) |
Residential |
Façade |
|
SSNV_M6 |
#43, Sung Shan New Village |
Residential |
Free-field |
|
TW_M2 |
#200, Cheung Po |
Residential |
Free-field |
|
TW_M3 |
Kai Yip Garden, #3H, Tai Wo |
Residential |
Free-field |
|
LFT_M1 |
#2G, Lin Fa Tei |
Residential |
Façade |
|
LFT_M3A (2) |
Near #125B, Lin Fa Tei |
Residential |
Free-field |
|
LFT_M5 |
#156B, Lin Fa Tei |
Residential |
Façade |
|
LFT_M7 |
Village house near the nullah (DD112 699 S.E) |
Residential |
Façade |
|
LFT_M11 (2) |
#210, Ngau Keng Tsuen |
Residential |
Façade |
|
HC_M3A (2) |
Next to DD111 326 S.B RP near Fan Kam Road |
- |
Free-field |
|
HC_M4 |
#1C, Chuk Hang |
Residential |
Façade |
|
HC_M6 |
The Arbutus House 12, #52, Shui Kan Shek |
Residential |
Façade |
Notes:
(1) SSNV – Sung Shan New Village; TW – Tai Wo; LFT – Lin Fa Tei; HC – Ha Che.
(2) LFT_M3A, LFT_M11, HC_M3A and are alternative noise monitoring stations proposed to replace LFT_M3, LFT_M13 and HC_M3, respectively.
3.2
Noise
Monitoring Parameter, Frequency and Duration
3.2.1
Construction noise
level was measured by the ET and measured in terms of the A-weighted equivalent
continuous sound pressure level (Leq). Leq(30mins)
used as the monitoring parameter for the construction noise monitoring.
3.2.2
As supplementary
information for data auditing, statistical results such as L10 and L90 were
also obtained for reference.
3.2.3
Table 3.2 summarizes the monitoring
parameters, duration, and frequency of construction noise monitoring.
Table 3.2 Construction Noise Monitoring Parameter, Frequency and Duration
|
Monitoring Station |
Parameter |
Frequency and Duration |
|
HC_M3A, HC_M4, HC_M6, TW_M2, TW_M3, LFT_M1, LFT_M3A, LFT_M5, LFT_M7 and LFT_M11 |
Leq(30mins) (as a logarithmic average of 6 consecutive Leq(5mins)) |
Once every week throughout the construction phase |
3.3
Monitoring
Equipment, Methodology and QA / QC Procedure
3.3.1
As referred to the
technical memorandum issued under the Noise Control Ordinance (NCO), sound
level meters in compliance with the International Electrotechnical Commission
Publications 651: 1979 (Type 1) and 804: 1985 (Type 1) specifications were used
for carrying out the construction noise monitoring.
3.3.2
Noise measurements
were not made in fog, rain, wind with a steady speed exceeding 5 m/s or wind
with gusts exceeding 10 m/s. The wind speed was checked with a portable
wind speed meter capable of measuring the wind speed in m/s.
3.3.3
Sufficient numbers
of noise measuring equipment and associated instrumentation were prepared by
the ET. All the equipment and associated instrumentation were clearly
labelled.
3.3.4
Wind data were
collected from the records of Hong Kong Observatory Shek Kong Weather Station,
which is about 2 km south-west of Ha Che and about 900 m north of Lin Fa Tei.
3.3.5
The monitoring
procedures are as follows:
§ For façade measurement, the monitoring station was set at a point 1 m from the exterior of the sensitive receivers building façade and set at a position 1.2 m above the ground. For free-field measurement, the monitoring station was set at a position 1.2 m above the ground.
§ The battery condition was checked to ensure good functioning of the meter.
§ Parameters such as frequency weighting, the time weighting and the interval were set as follows:
- Frequency weighting: A
- Time weighting: Fast
- Interval: 30 minutes (Leq(30mins)) would be determined for daytime noise by calculating the logarithmic average of six Leq(5mins) data
§ Prior to and after each noise measurement, the meter was calibrated using an acoustic calibrator for 94.0 dB at 1000 Hz. If the difference in the calibration level before and after measurement is more than 1.0 dB, the measurement was considered invalid and repeat of noise measurement will be required after re-calibration or repair of the equipment.
§ At the end of the monitoring period, the values of Leq, L90 and L10 were recorded. In addition, noise sources were recorded on a standard record sheet.
3.3.6
Table 3.3 summarizes the noise monitoring
equipment used during the construction noise monitoring. Calibration
certificates for the impact noise monitoring equipment are attached in Appendix 3.1.
Table 3.3 Construction Noise Monitoring Equipment
|
Equipment |
Model |
No. of Equipment |
Serial No. |
|
Sound Level Meter |
Svantek SVAN 971 |
1 |
96062 |
|
Acoustic Calibrator |
Rion NC-75 |
1 |
34724244 |
3.4
Maintenance
and Calibration
3.4.1
Maintenance and
calibration procedures are as follows:
§ The microphone head of the sound level meter and calibrator were regularly cleaned with a soft cloth; and
§ The sound level meter and acoustic calibrator were calibrated annually by a HOKLAS accredited laboratory or the manufacturer.
3.5
Action
and Limit Levels
3.5.1
The Action and Limit
levels were established in accordance with the approved EM&A Manual. Table 3.4 presents the Action and Limit
Levels for construction noise. Should non-compliance of the criteria occur,
action in accordance with the Event and Action Plan presented in Appendix 3.2
shall be carried out.
Table 3.4 Action and Limit Levels for Construction Noise Monitoring
|
Time Period |
Action |
Limit Level |
|
07:00 – 19:00 on normal weekdays |
When one or more documented complaints are received |
75 dB(A)(1) |
|
07:00 – 23:00 on holidays; and 19:00 – 23:00 on all other days |
45 dB(A)(2) |
|
|
23:00 – 07:00 of the next day |
30 dB(A)(2) |
(1) Between 07:00 and 19:00, construction noise limit for school during normal term time is 70 dB(A) and 65 dB(A) during examination period.
(2) The ASR of identified noise sensitive receivers is “A”, which is a rural area that is not affected by the in Influencing Factors (Ifs). The limit levels are stipulated in the Technical Memorandum on Noise from Construction Work in Designated Areas.
3.6
Results
and Observations
3.6.1 The construction noise monitoring
was conducted on 23 February 2024. The monitoring schedule is presented in Appendix 2.3.
3.6.2 The construction noise monitoring
results are summarized in Table 3.5.
No Action or Limit levels exceedance was recorded in the reporting
period. Details of the results and graphical presentation are shown in Appendix 3.3.
Table 3.5 Summary of Construction Noise Monitoring Results
|
Monitoring Station |
Noise Level, dB(A) |
Limit Level |
|
|
Leq(30mins) |
|||
|
Minimum |
Maximum |
||
|
HC-M3a(1) |
60.1 |
60.1 |
75 dB(A) |
|
HC-M4 |
60.5 |
60.5 |
75 dB(A) |
|
HC-M6 |
70.6 |
70.6 |
75 dB(A) |
Note:
(1) For Free Field measurement, +3 dB(A) was added to the measured results.
3.6.3
During the
construction noise monitoring period, the influencing factors which may affect
the results are summarized in Table 3.6.
Table 3.6 Influencing Factors at Noise Monitoring Stations
|
Monitoring Stations |
Influencing Factors |
|
HC-M3a |
Road Traffic Noise |
|
HC-M4 |
Road Traffic Noise |
|
HC-M6 |
Road Traffic Noise |
4
Ecology
4.1
Freshwater
Crab
4.1.1 With reference to the approved EIA
Report (Register No.: AEIAR-229/2021), two freshwater crab species of
conservation importance were recorded within the work sites during the
ecological baseline survey. Somanniathelphusa zanklon was recorded at
Lin Fa Tei and Ha Che, while Cryptopotamon anacoluthon was recorded in
the upstream area at Ha Che. Both species are endemic to Hong Kong and
considered to be “Endangered” and “Vulnerable” by the IUCN respectively (IUCN
2023). The construction activities of the project will disturb their natural
habitats and potentially causing a direct loss of these two species due to
their limited mobility.
Freshwater Crab Translocation Plan
4.1.2 Freshwater Crab Translocation Plan
(FCTP) was prepared by an Ecologist with relevant experience in freshwater
habitats and submitted to the EPD and the AFCD for their approval under
Condition 2.8 of the EP. Any aquatic species of conservation importance found
during the pre-construction surveys were translocated to suitable receptor
sites outside of the proposed works area, and their condition and number was
monitored to ensure their long-term survivorship after translocation. The EPD
advised no further comment on the submitted FCTP on 9 February 2024.
Pre-construction Survey Results
4.1.3 The pre-construction survey was
carried out at Ha Che on 5, 6 and 7 February 2023 prior to the commencement of
construction works at Ha Che. A total of 11 freshwater crabs were collected,
marked, and translocated from Ha Che. All these captured individuals were
observed on the first (5 February 2024) and third (7 February 2024) nights of
the three consecutive pre-construction surveys. No crabs were collected on 6
February 2024. Seven C. anacoluthon (four males and three females) were
found particularly on the upper section of the works area within rocky
substratum and leaf-litters, while four S. zanklon were noted on
sections with soft silty-muddy substrate.
4.1.4 The captured endemic freshwater
crabs were translocated to the identified receptor sites
indicated in the approved Freshwater Crab Translocation Plan. C. anacoluthon were translocated in the section of shallow
fast-flowing semi-natural watercourse with rocky substratum located south-east
of Chuk Hang Village. Meanwhile S. zanklon were translocated to the
section of shallow slow-flowing seminatural channel characterised soft soil
substrate encompassed by a small patch of woodland and village houses. The
receptor sites have comparable characteristics with the collection site.
4.1.5 Several aquatic invertebrates were
also incidentally caught during the surveys. Among the observed aquatic
invertebrates, larvae of species with conservation importance namely one Macromia
berlandi, two Macromia urania and two Zygonyx iris were
translocated to the proposed receptor sites. M. urania and M.
berlandi were translocated to the receptor site for S. zanklon while
Z. iris to the receptor site of C. anacoluthon.
4.1.6 The pre-construction survey at Lin
Fa Tei is scheduled between 11 and 13 March 2024.
Post-translocation Monitoring
4.1.7 According to Section 5.2.5 of the
approved EM&A Manual for the Project, monthly post-translocation
monitoring shall be conducted for at least 12 months after pre-construction
surveys to monitor their establishment.
4.1.8 During the monitoring, active
visual search by hand netting and kick sampling for aquatic
fauna species would be performed at the respective receptor sites. Potential
micro-habitats and hiding spaces that is favoured by the crabs such as rocks,
organic debris, leaf litter, and riparian vegetation etc., will also be
overturned or raked.
4.1.9 Upon discovery of any marked
individuals from the pre-construction survey, date and time
of capture, size and health condition of the individual will also be recorded
once again.
4.1.10 The practice of mark and recapture
of the translocated population of S. zanklon and C.
anacoluthon at the receptor site can then be used to estimate
population size, as well as inform the health and survival status of the
translocated population.
4.1.11 The result of post-translocation
monitoring at Ha Che will be presented in the next monthly EM&A Report.
4.2
Habitat
Compensation for the Affected Riverine Habitat
4.2.1 In order to ensure the reinstated
habitat could compensate the loss of the important riverine habitat, Habitat
Creation and Management Plan (HCMP) is required to be submitted for EPD and
AFCD approval under Condition 2.9 of the EP.
4.2.2 The first draft of HCMP was
submitted to EPD and AFCD on 22 December 2023 with the following objectives:
§ detail the approach and design features for restoring/ reinstating the three green channels at Sung Shan New Village, Lin Fa Tei and Ha Che so as to facilitate and promote the colonisation of the freshwater crab and other wildlife after the reinstatement; and
§ detail the monitoring programme to monitor the physical environment of the restored/reinstated channels (i.e. green channels) including water quality, water current, as well as the establishment of riparian vegetation and the biota assemblage that would recolonise the reinstated channel.
5
Waste
Management
5.1.1
Waste generated
from the Project include inert construction and demolition (C&D) materials
and non-inert C&D wastes in the reporting period. The amount of waste
generated by the construction works of the Project during the reporting period
are shown in Appendix 5.1.
Inert construction and demolition (C&D) materials and non-inert
C&D wastes disposed of off-site between November 2023 and January 2024 were
generated from site clearance.
5.1.2
Sorting of construction
and demolition (C&D) materials was carried out on site. Sufficient numbers of receptacles were provided for general
refuse collection and sorting. Excavated inert C&D materials were
reused to minimize the disposal of C&D waste to public fill.
5.1.3
The Contractor is
advised to minimize the wastes generated through recycling or reusing.
All applicable mitigation measures stipulated in the approved EM&A
Manual and waste management plans will be fully implemented.
6
Land
Contamination
6.1.1 With reference to results of land
contamination assessment included in the approved EIA Report (Register No.:
AEIAR-229/2021), all identified sites with potential contamination are located
outside the work area of the Project and no potential contamination arising
from the proposed drainage improvement works is anticipated. Therefore, no land
contamination issue is anticipated for this Project.
6.1.2 Mitigation measures listed in Appendix 1.3 should be adopted if any suspended
contamination encountered during construction.
6.1.3 No suspected on-site contamination
was observed or reported by the Contractor in the reporting period.
7
Landscape
and Visual
7.1
Audit
Requirements
7.1.1 According to the approved EM&A
Manual, site audits should be undertaken every week during the construction
phase to check that the proposed landscape and visual mitigation measures are
properly implemented and maintained as per their intended objectives.
Mitigation measures recommended in the EIA Report as the audit requirements
including, preservation of existing vegetation, transplanting of affected
trees, compensatory tree planting, control of night-time lighting glare,
erection of decorative screen hoarding and management of construction
activities and facilities are summarized in Appendix 1.3.
7.2
Results
and Observations
7.2.1 To monitor and audit the
implementation of landscape and visual mitigation measures, two weekly
landscape and visual site audits were carried out on 21 and 28 February 2024.
7.2.2 No deficiency in the mitigation
measures on landscape and visual was observed during the reporting period.
8
Cultural
Heritage
8.1
Archaeology
8.1.1 According to the assessment
included in the approved EIA report (Register No.: AEIAR-229/2021) the proposed
drainage works in the Lin Fa Tei area are located immediately adjacent to
existing river course on mainly Pleistocene terraced alluvium and the western
end of the alignment on Holocene alluvium between Lin Fa Tei Site of
Archaeological Interest (SAI) and Shui Lau Tin SAI. The proposed works are
partially located within Lin Fa Tei SAI. Previous investigations within
SAI have shown both in situ and secondary deposit and with potential for wooden
features near the stream bed. As per the recommendation from EIA report,
Archaeological Survey shall be conducted prior to the construction works, the
concerned area is marked in Figure 8.1.
8.1.2 A qualified archaeologist shall be
engaged and apply for a licence under the Antiquities and Monuments Ordinance
(Cap. 53) to conduct the Archaeological Survey prior to the construction phase.
The scope and methodology of the Archaeological Survey shall be agreed with
Antiquities and Monuments Office (AMO) prior to implementation. Tentatively and
subject to agreement with AMO, a fieldscan, where possible, twenty auger tests
and four 5 by 1m narrow trenches are proposed to further assess the archaeological
potential of the area. If significant remains are uncovered, AMO should be
notified and potential need for mitigation and/ or an appropriate way forward
should be agreed by AMO and relevant parties.
8.1.3 For remaining drainage work areas
(outside the area identified for Archaeological Survey) deemed to have limited
(near Kam Sheung Road) to minimal (remainder of Works Areas) archaeological
potential, AMO shall be informed immediately if antiquities or supposed
antiquities are discovered during construction works for the proposed drainage
improvement works for ascertaining required remedial works.
8.2
Built
Heritage
8.2.1 According to the approved EM&A
manual, mitigation measures that should be implemented during the construction
phase for graded historic buildings are presented in Table 8.1.
8.2.2 Condition surveys were carried out
by qualified structural engineer for Lee Tat Bridge, Lan Fong Study Hall and St
John’s Chapel prior to construction works. The Pre-construction Condition
Survey Report were submitted to the EPD on 22 December 2023 under Condition
2.10 of the EP.
Table 8.1 Mitigation Measures for Impacted Graded Historic Buildings
|
Graded Historic Buildings |
Mitigation Measures |
|
Lee Tat Bridge, Shui Tsan Tin (Grade 3) |
§ A condition survey should be carried out in advance of works and after completion of works by qualified building surveyor or structural engineer. The Condition Survey Report should contain descriptions of the structure, identification of fragile elements, an appraisal of the condition and working methods for any proposed monitoring and precautionary measures that are or were recommended with aid of photo records. The condition survey report must be submitted to the AMO for comment before construction activities commence and after the works have been completed. The contractor should implement the approved monitoring and precautionary measures. § Vibration, settlement and tilting monitoring should be undertaken during the construction works to ensure that safe levels of vibration are not exceeded. An Alert, Alarm and Action (AAA) vibration limit set at 5 / 6 / 7.5 mm/s for Grade 3 historic buildings, settlement limit set at 6/ 8/ 10mm, and tilting limit set at 1/2000; 1/1500; 1/1000 should be adopted. Monitoring proposal, including checkpoint locations, installation details, response actions for each of the AAA levels and frequency of monitoring should be submitted for AMO's consideration. Installation of monitoring checkpoints shall be carried out in great care and adequate protection shall be provided so as to avoid unnecessary disturbance/ damage to the historic fabrics. Photo records of monitoring checkpoints shall be submitted upon installation for AMO's records. Monitoring records should be submitted to AMO on regular basis and alert AMO should the monitoring reach AAA levels. |
|
Lan Fong Study Hall, Chuk Hang (Grade 3) |
|
|
St John’s Chapel, Cheung Po (Grade 2) |
9
Environmental
Site Inspection and Audit
9.1
Implementation
Status of Environmental Mitigation Measures
9.1.1
Site inspections
were carried out on a weekly basis to monitor the implementation of proper
environmental pollution control and mitigation measures under the Contract.
In the reporting period, site inspections were carried out on 21 and 28
February 2024 at the site portions listed in Table 9.1
below.
Table 9.1 Site Inspection Record
|
Date |
Inspected Site Portion |
Time |
|
21 February 2024 |
Lin Fa Tei |
14:00 PM – 14:30 PM |
|
28 February 2024 |
Ha Che |
15:00 PM – 15:30 PM |
9.1.2
Environmental
deficiencies were observed during weekly site inspection. Key observations during
the site inspections and during the reporting period are summarized in Table 9.2.
|
Date |
Environmental Observations |
Follow-up Status |
|
21 February 2024 |
Observation(s) and Recommendation(s)
1. Nil |
1. Nil |
|
28 February 2024 |
Observation(s) and Recommendation(s)
1. Nil |
1. Nil |
9.1.3
According to the
EIA Study Report, Environmental Permit, contract documents and approved
EM&A Manual, the mitigation measures detailed in the documents should be
implemented as much as practical during the reporting period. An updated
Implementation Status of Environmental Mitigation Measures (EMIS) is provided
in Appendix 1.3.
10
Summary
of Monitoring Exceedance, Complaints, Notification of Summons and Prosecutions
10.1
Summary
of Exceedance
10.1.1
During the
reporting month, two (2) limit level exceedances for SS, one (1) limit level
exceedance for turbidity, and one (1) limit level exceedance of DO were
recorded in the impact water quality monitoring. After investigation, all
exceedances were considered to be non-project related.
10.1.2 Exceedances of
limit levels on DO, turbidity and SS were recorded during the regular
monitoring at C10 on 21 February 2024. The frequency of monitoring was
increased to daily at C9 and C10 starting from 22 February 2024. As no further
exceedances of action or limit levels were observed on the monitoring results
of 23 February 2024, the frequency of monitoring was resumed to normal (regular
monitoring) after 23 February 2024. Three sets of geotextiles were deployed at
the work areas as the mitigation measure for preventing contaminated site
runoff. Since there were no construction works carried out at Ha Che on
21 February 2024 and no deficiency in mitigation measures for preventing site
runoff were observed during the follow-up site inspection on 23 February 2024,
it is considered that the exceedances of limit levels of DO, turbidity and SS
are not related to the Project.
10.1.3 Exceedance of
limit level on SS was recorded during the regular monitoring at C10 on 28
February 2024. Two sets of geotextiles were properly deployed onsite and a water bypass was deployed to direct river water
from the upstream of work area to the downstream of work area. Since sufficient
measures for preventing contamination of downstream water were well implemented
and no deficiency in mitigation measures for preventing site runoff was
observed during weekly site inspection on 28 February 2024, it is
considered that the exceedance of limit level of SS is not related to the
Project.
10.1.4 No Action Level or
Limit Level exceedance was recorded for construction noise monitoring in the
reporting period.
10.2 Summary of Environmental
Non-Compliance
10.2.1
No environmental
non-compliance was recorded in the reporting period.
10.3
Summary
of Environmental Complaint
10.3.1
No environmental
complaint was received in the reporting period. The Cumulative Complaint
Log is presented in Appendix 10.1.
10.4
Summary
of Environmental Summon and Successful Prosecution
10.4.1
There was no
successful environmental prosecution or notification of summons received since
the Project commencement. The Cumulative Log for environmental summon and
successful prosecution is presented in Appendix 10.1.
11
Future
Key Issues
11.1
Works
and Potential Environmental Issues in the next Reporting Period
11.1.1
The construction
programme for the Project for the next reporting period is presented in Appendix 11.1.
11.1.2
Works to be
undertaken in the next reporting period are summarized below:
§ Lifting Operation;
§ Plant Operation;
§ Excavation;
§ Sheet Piling; and
§ Installation of Precast unit
11.1.3 Potential
environmental impacts arising from the above construction activities are mainly
associated with construction noise impact, water quality impact, ecological
impact, waste management, and landscape and visual.
11.2
Recommendation
11.2.1
The key
environmental mitigation measures for the Project in the coming reporting
period expected to be associated with the construction activities include:
Noise
§ Only well-maintained plant should be operated on-site, and plant should be maintained regularly during the construction programme; and
§ Quality Powered Mechanical Equipment (QPME) should be adopted as far as possible.
Water Quality
§ No effluent discharge would be allowed before acquired the effluent discharge license;
§ Surface run-off from construction sites should be discharged into dedicated discharge point via adequately designed sand/ silt removal facilities;
§ Channels/ earth bunds/ sandbags barriers should be provided on site to properly direct stormwater to silt removal facilities;
§ Silt removal facilities, channels and manholes should be maintained, and the deposited silt and grit should be removed regularly;
§ Open stockpiles of construction materials on sites should be covered with tarpaulin or similar fabric during rainstorms; and
§ Perimeter channels should be provided on site boundaries where necessary to intercept stormwater run-off from outside the site so that it will not wash across the site.
Waste Management
§ Provision of sufficient waste disposal points and regular collection of waste;
§ Regular cleaning and maintenance programme for drainage system; and
§ Chemical containers shall be stored with drip tray underneath.
Ecology
§ Minimize loss of habitats and associated wildlife; and
§ Using directional lighting to prevent excessive light spill into adjacent natural habitat and disturbance to nocturnal fauna.
Landscape and Visual
§ Construction activities shall be carefully designed to minimize impact on existing retained trees; and
§ Adequate tree protection measures shall be provided for the trees to be retained on site.
11.2.2
The tentative
schedule of regular construction noise and water quality monitoring in the next
reporting period is presented in Appendix 11.1.
The regular impact noise and water quality monitoring will be conducted at the
same monitoring locations in the next reporting period.
12
Conclusions
12.1
Conclusion
12.1.1
This 1st
Monthly EM&A Report presents the EM&A works during the reporting period
from 20 February 2024 to 29 February 2024 in accordance with the approved
EM&A Manual.
12.1.2
Two (2) limit
level exceedances for SS, one (1) limit level exceedance for turbidity, and one
(1) limit level exceedance of DO were recorded during impact water quality
monitoring in the reporting period. After investigation, all exceedances
were considered non-project related.
12.1.3
No Action Level or
Limit Level exceedance was recorded for construction noise monitoring in the
reporting period.
12.1.4
Environmental site
inspections were conducted on 21 and 28 February 2024 by the ET in the
reporting period.
12.1.5
No environmental
complaint was received in the reporting period.
12.1.6
No notification of
summons and prosecution was received in the reporting period.
12.1.7
The ET will keep
track on the construction works to confirm compliance of environmental
requirements and the proper implementation of all necessary mitigation
measures.
12.1.8
No change to the
EM&A programme was made in this reporting period.
12.2
Comments/
Recommendations
12.2.1
The proposed
mitigation measures were properly implemented and were considered effective and
efficient in pollution control.