Underground storage tanks (USTs) are used for storing fuel, but they can pose a risk if they develop leaks. Leakage from USTs can result in soil and groundwater contamination, presenting environmental and health concerns. Eco and Partner undertook a thorough site investigation is crucial to confirm the presence of leakage from these underground tank at a fuel station in Central Uganda.

Site investigations involved a systematic process of assessing and evaluating the condition of UST, as well as the surrounding soil and groundwater, to determine if leakage has occurred and to what extent, allowing for appropriate remediation measures to be implemented.

Soil samples were collected from specific locations around the USTs to determine if petroleum hydrocarbons or other contaminants are present. These samples were analyzed in an accredited laboratory to quantify the concentrations of contaminants, to determine the potential severity of the leakage and the extent of soil contamination.

Site investigations involved the use of specialized techniques and equipment, such as soil vapor surveys or geophysical surveys.

Project-induced in-migration (or influx) describes the movement of people into an area in anticipation of, or in response to, employment and other economic opportunities from the development and/or operation of a new project. Although the in-migration may result in improvements in infrastructure, services, and employment in the project area of influence, it can also lead to significant negative environmental, social and health impacts, adversely affecting both the project and the project-affected communities. Such impacts have the potential to fundamentally change the context in which a project operates, leading to significant consequences in terms of the planning, implementation, and outcomes of environmental, social and health programs and management plans, increased operational costs, and increased operational risk, ultimately affecting a project’s “social license to operate”.

As recognized by the ESIA, the Tilenga project PIIM is expected to have far reaching impacts on individuals, households, communities, public and private institutions, the physical environment and among other aspects. The impacts of PIIM and how they are effectively managed depends to a large extent on the pre-existing situation in the project area and the overall national and international social, economic, political, legal and human rights environment.

Eco and Partner Consult Ltd, was contracted by Total Energies EP Uganda to undertake Project Induced In Migration (PIIM) Studies for the Tilenga project, these studies constituted the following:

• PIIM Planning and Scoping
• Stakeholder Identification, Analysis and Engagement
• PIIM Situation Analysis
• Assessment of PIIM Risks and Impacts Mitigation
• PIIM Strategy Development and Management Approaches
• PIIM implementation; PIIM Management Plan