Environmental and Social Consultant for Preparation of Environmental and Social Management Planning Framework Documents for the Proposed Siddhartha Highway (Butwal–Pokhara Section) Improvement Project, Nepal

The Government of Nepal plans to upgrade and improve the Siddhartha Highway between Butwal and Pokhara—an essential part of the country’s North-South National Highway network. This strategic corridor is vital for enhancing regional connectivity, boosting economic development, and improving access to markets, services, and livelihoods in the region. The improvement project aims to convert the approximately 130 km long corridor—stretching through hilly and mountainous terrain—into a modern, climate-resilient, safe, and green highway aligned with Nepal’s sustainable development and inclusive growth vision.

The proposed project will be co-financed by the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) and other development partners. Due to the evolving nature of the design and alignment options (including in-situ widening and new infrastructure such as tunnels, viaducts, and high bridges), a framework-based approach is being adopted for environmental and social (E&S) assessments.

To guide the planning and implementation of this transformative infrastructure, the Department of Roads, Government of Nepal, will prepare an Environmental and Social Management Planning Framework (ESMPF). This will be complemented by several key instruments:

• Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP)
• Labor Management Procedures (LMP)
• Land Acquisition and Resettlement Planning Framework (LARPF)
• Indigenous Peoples Planning Framework (IPPF) (if applicable)
• Gender Action Plan (GAP)
• Environmental and Social Action Plan (ESAP)

These instruments will ensure that the project adheres to Nepal’s legal requirements, AIIB’s Environmental and Social Framework (ESF), and international good practices, including the World Bank Group's Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) Guidelines.

The project embodies a “Green and Road Plus Corridor” approach, emphasizing:

• Climate change resilience
• Slope stabilization and watershed management
• Inclusive and equitable access
• Road safety
• Local socio-economic development

Environmental and Social Consultants will be engaged to prepare the framework documents. Their responsibilities include:

• Reviewing relevant project documentation and conducting baseline assessments
• Identifying and mapping sensitive ecological and social receptors
• Engaging with key stakeholders and communities to integrate their feedback
• Conducting field assessments and consultations
• Developing institutional arrangements, risk mitigation strategies, and monitoring frameworks
• Proposing ToRs for future detailed E&S assessments such as ESIA, ESMP, and RAP

The assignment duration is four months, and all work will be carried out in close coordination with AIIB and the Department of Roads. The consultants are expected to have substantial experience in E&S assessments of infrastructure projects, especially in mountainous regions, and demonstrate familiarity with both national and international standards.

By embedding environmental and social considerations from the early stages, this project aims not only to improve transportation infrastructure but also to enhance resilience, equity, and sustainability across the region.