In parallel with the active construction phase of the Bakhvi Hydropower Plant (HPP), environmental protection and monitoring measures are being implemented intensively and in accordance with a pre-defined plan. Among the key commitments undertaken by Bakhvi HPP is the regular execution of quarterly environmental research and monitoring activities. Compliance with this obligation is overseen on one hand by relevant state authorities, and on the other by international experts who were engaged in environmental assessments during the project’s early development phase, as well as by the project’s investors.
It was these independent international experts who developed the action plan which, if fully and accurately implemented, is expected to either entirely avoid or significantly mitigate potential environmental impacts of the project. The obligation to conduct continuous environmental studies and monitoring is outlined in the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) documentation, as well as in several thematic environmental studies. “The Environmental Monitoring Plan has been reviewed and approved by the National Environmental Agency. Each quarterly study and monitoring phase is carried out by independent specialists. In June, we conducted the second monitoring session of the year. The final reports are expected to be completed within this month, and of course, we will share the findings publicly. At this stage, we can already express cautious optimism, as the researchers, in preliminary discussions, have noted the presence of various species of animals, birds, and reptiles in the areas adjacent to the construction site. This is a clear indication that no large-scale displacement of fauna has occurred,” – stated Davit Koberidze, Environmental and Social Projects Manager at Bakhvi HPP.
Studies Conducted in Q2 2024:
- Air quality (dust and emissions), vibration: DG Consulting
- Flora and fauna (mammals, birds, amphibians, reptiles, vegetation): Niko Kerdikoshvili, MSc in Ecology, Head of Scientific Programs at Tbilisi Zoo
- Bat species and habitat assessment: Giorgi Sheklashvili
- Biodiversity of the Bakhvistskali River: Giorgi Zaalishvili, MSc in Biology (specialization: Hydrobiology and Ichthyology)
- Geological assessment: Levan Kebuladze, LLC “Geostandarti”
- Surface water quality: DG Consulting