The Padma Bridge Feasibility Study: Social/Resettlement Impact Assessments

Abstract

This paper provides an attempt to incorporate the new approach to social and environmental considerations in Japan's overseas development assistance projects. It is based on work carried out in the course of the feasibility study on the construction of the Padma Bridge in the People's Republic of Bangladesh. The framework is intended to provide a comprehensive view of the issues associated with social impact assessment for large infrastructure projects such as the proposed Padma Bridge, yet flexible enough for adaptation to the needs of other similar projects for managing impact assessment. The paper also contains results of the preliminary engineering designs with regard to acquisition of land and other assets, including displacement and relocation of the affected households. An estimated 3, 150 households will be displaced due to the construction of the bridge and associated facilities. In addition, 5, 000 households will be affected by loss of agricultural land. The framework and guidelines established an entitlement matrix designed to cover compensation for lost assets and restore or enhance the livelihoods of all categories of affected people. The impact assessment was integrated into the planning and design processes. As a result, the discussion of the key dimensions of the framework, including the approach and methodology of the study, focused on interpreting the results and eliciting lessons learned during the process.