ADB TA 42173-014 BAN: Strengthening Monitoring and Enforcement in the Meghna River for Dhaka’s Sustainable Water Supply

The objective of the assignment is to assist the government in strengthening the monitoring and enforcement mechanism for Meghna River to ensure long-term water security of Dhaka city. Specific outputs will include: (i) developing water pollution mapping, and strengthening monitoring and reporting system in the relevant section of the proposed intake locations of Meghna River; (ii) developing an incentive or reward system on a pilot basis for pollution control; (iii) identifying an Ecologically Critical Area (ECA) in Meghna River and preparing for designation; and (iv) undertaking training programs for the relevant government officers and organizations to perform their obligations.

Output 1: Water pollution mapping developed, and monitoring and reporting system strengthened in the relevant section of Meghna River: This output will help develop water pollution mapping and strengthen the monitoring and reporting system to control water quality in Meghna River, particularly in the relevant section of the proposed intake sites as source of water supply.4 Two intake sites for Dhaka water supply are currently proposed: one at Bishnondi and the other at Haria. Tasks for water pollution mapping include (i) baseline surveys to identify existing pollution sources in the upstream and downstream of the proposed intake sites; (ii) collection and analysis of development plans of the public and private sectors which are relevant to the Meghna River water quality and volume; and (iii) development of a geographic information system (GIS)-based map that includes information on the pollution sources and their extent.

Output 2: Incentive or reward system for pollution control piloted: Tasks include (i) conducting stakeholder consultations (mainly pollution sources) to discuss a workable system; (ii) developing such a system and implementing it on a pilot basis; and (iii) reviewing lessons of the pilot implementation of the system and proposing approaches for improvement and/or scaling-up. Technical auditing of, and provision of training to industries will be a part of the pilot program, with a view to enhancing production efficiencies of factory operations while reducing the pollution loads. Industries along the relevant section of the river will benefit from this output. DoE will participate in these tasks to strengthen knowledge and capacity.

Output 3: Ecologically Critical Area (ECA) identified and prepared for designation: Tasks will include (i) undertaking a comprehensive background study to assess ecological importance of the area; (ii) drafting required documents for designation as an ECA; and (iii) holding stakeholder consultations to finalize the proposal and providing support for government’s approval. DoE staff will be closely involved in each step to ensure effective implementation.

Output 4: Training programs completed: Tasks include (i) assessment of the capacity gap of DoE including its laboratories between the existing level and required level, from the viewpoint of strengthening monitoring and enforcement particularly in protecting water quality of Meghna River; (ii) preparation of a roadmap for phase-wise capacity development of DoE based on the gap assessment, both in terms of human resources and facilities and equipment;

Assumptions and risks. The government’s continued commitment to strengthening enforcement is a major risk. Political and social implications may make it difficult to suspend factory operations when violations are found out. Limited staff available in DoE also makes it difficult to effectively monitor pollution-related activities.