AEF United Transport Cameroon II

completed

-2- March 1, 1996ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW SUMMARY (ERS)Project Name Cameroon - United Transportation Cameroon (UTC II)Region Sub-Saharan AfricaSector TransportProject No. 0074351. United Transportation Cameroon (UTC) proposes to upgrade and modernize its current fleet of heavy duty tractor trailer trucks by purchasing 68 new trucks to replace an equal number of outdated units which will be removed from service. The project entails a total investment of US$ 5.0 million, of which Africa Enterprise Fund has been approached to invest US$ 2.3 million. UTC is an established land transportation firm in Cameroon that in addition to serving Cameroon, also serves cargo transportation interests destined to landlocked countries such as Chad, Central Africa Republic and Northern Congo. New units will be of similar design and make as remaining units in order to increase service and maintenance efficiency.2. This is a category B projects according to IFC''s environmental review procedure because specific impacts may result which can be avoided or mitigated by adhering to generally recognized performance standards, guidelines or design criteria. The review of this project consisted of appraising technical and environmental information submitted by the project sponsor. The following key environmental, health and safety issues that were considered in this projects include:· solid waste;· oil/fuel storage and spill prevention;· vehicle emissions and safety; and· fire protection.The information about how these potential impacts are addressed in the development of the proposed project is summarized in the paragraphs that follow.3. Solid waste accumulated and recovered at the facility, including vehicle tires, inner tubes, containers, etc. is sorted to separate reusable and recycable material. Material which is not reused at company facilities is sold to local buyers for recycling.4. Fuel and lubricant oil is stored in tanks in an appropriate location at the unit facilities. All storage tanks are equipped with catch basins to recover occasional overflows and spillages during refill and fueling activities. Used oil is collected and stored in portable tanks or drums. Product is then transported by a specialized firm for offsite treatment and recycling.5. Vehicle emissions are controlled through a rigorous vehicle maintenance and service program. Emission levels are maintained within acceptable local standards and limits.6. Facilities are fully equipped with heavy duty fire extinguishers deployed at strategic locations. Areas in which risks of fire are considered to be higher are equipped with additional fire fighting devices.7. Company drivers undergo rigorous screening and training prior to being qualified for regular duty. Candidates are initially screened by the local traffic authorities who conduct an extensive background check. Once this phase is concluded and results are evaluated, candidates must undergo additional testing and screening based on standardized procedures carried out by expatriate staff. Qualifying candidates undergo training at different levels. Initially, drivers are trained on basic safety matters associated with cargo hauling and vehicle driving. During this time, drivers are limited to short hauls. Upon completion of this trial period, which normally requires two months, the driver is placed on long haul routes accompanied by an experienced driver who conducts a final evaluation. Only until this final evaluation is proved satisfactory is a driver allowed to complete "solo" trips. Safety audits are also conducted by the local Ministry of Energy and Mines on an annual basis to ensure execution of safety programs.8. Company management is committed to ensure that all safety issues and environmental programs are implemented in accordance with local government requirements and World Bank guidelines. An annual status reports will be made available to concerned parties. 9. Based on its review of available information regarding potential environmental impacts and proposed mitigation measures, IFC concludes that the proposed project is being designed to meet Government of Uganda requirements and World Bank policies, and environmental, health and safety guidelines. L:\WPEU\LUIS\UTCERS.DOCFebruary 20, 1996 4:40 PM