| Abstract: | This report is based on the proposed 08 Storey Building Construction with Basement at the residence, Ma. Gongali in the capital city, Male’. The project is being developed and by the proponent and one of the land lords, Mr. Mohamed Fazeeh. An Environmental Impact Assessment was necessary for the works outlined in this report as they fall under ‘Jadhuvalu R’ of the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations 2012 of
the Maldives. Specifically, the inclusion of a basement comes under the Regulation. In addition to meeting the regulatory requirements, the report would further assist the proponent and important stakeholders to make decisions based on favourable environmental conditions with the main focus on sustainability. The project also adheres to several other rules and regulations in the Maldives and has obtained permit from the Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure for the project to proceed. The area the project is proposed to be undertaken is a moderately built area. The project is based in Male in the Machangoalhi district, in Rahdhebai Magu. There is no notable natural terrestrial environment at site as generally the case. The existing environment therefore was
focussed on the regional climate of Male’, and the traffic distribution, and noise pollution in the area. The project area does endure moderate traffic relative to the general traffic conditions in Male’. A visual exterior inspection of the existing structures in the area was also observed. Serious structural defects are expected to be at a minimum, especially considering the standard foundation protection methods. The structure south of the project site is very old and vulnerable to impacts during excavation. However, regular contact had
been established by the proponent and the landlord of the property and any damages would be repaired by the proponent. The condition of the road in the area is generally good. The overall environmental impacts of the project have been assessed using frameworks in literature. Since the development is undertaken in a moderately built area, the results indicate that the proposed project has neutral impact. However, there are some significant
impacts on the environment during the construction phase of the project and these needs to be mitigated to avoid any significant damage to the environment. Significance of the impacts and mitigation measures have been provided based on previous similar projects undertaken in the Maldivian environment and based on literature. Considering the numerous other similar projects being simultaneously undertaken in Male’, there is considerable
cumulative impacts overall from all these projects. The main cause for concern regarding such projects is the impact it will have on neighbours residing in this area. As such, several short-term impacts are envisaged including air pollution, noise pollution, aesthetic impacts, traffic issues and safety concerns. The main reason an EIA was required for the project was due to the basement in the structure. Most impacts that do occur can also be easily mitigated to minimise and/or completely nullify them as most similar projects in Male’. Mitigation measure proposed includes initially creating awareness among the construction staff and neighbours regarding the
scope of the project. Signboards are recommended to be placed at all times. Additionally a labourer watchman should be placed at the site ground floor to guide any pedestrians passing the project area. Project vehicles and materials not taking up the parking space around the project area is also an important measure. Freeing up parking space near the project area for continuous flow of traffic. Other measures include taking protective
measures to ensure people residing and utilising the vicinity will not have to endure the impacts during the construction stage including timing of the project works. Foundation protection measures are recommended and are provided as part of the project to prevent impact on neighbouring structures in addition to a 1m offset from the adjacent building. Dewatering procedure will also be undertaken with care, details of which are given in the
report. Care should also be taken to prevent any damage to the road and disruption to traffic during transport of machinery, material and equipment. As the proposed project is virtually at the center of Male’, dewatering pipes will be lengthy and will cause obstruction to a large number of pedestrians.
Alternatives, including the no project option and alternatives for some project components are also discussed. No project option is not viable at this stage of the project. Regarding construction methodology, a few alternatives are recommended. Regarding the design, there are recommendations to make the development greener. These include interior landscaping to incorporate plants, use of green walls, use of LED lights, rooftop solar panels, etc. An environmental monitoring program is provided at the end of the report, which provides details on the parameters to monitor on site, and the frequency in which it needs to be done. Estimated costs for the monitoring works are given. Implementation of the program is essential for the sustainable development of the project. In conclusion, it is discussed the cumulative impact such major housing projects have for the increasing population density in Male’, and how it can be prevented at a policy level. However, taking this project as a standalone development project in an already heavily built island city, as is the case for all these similar developments, it can be concluded that no significant long-term project specific impacts are predicted. None that the island community is not currently enduring. The same conclusion had been derived for all similar building
construction projects in Male’. Therefore, it is recommended that the project go ahead as proposed with proposed precautions and mitigation measures as provided under the published guidelines and recommended in this study, especially with regards to site safety. Furthermore, it is discussed on the importance of strengthening legislation to ensure sustainability of these types of building projects and to improve the worsening living
conditions in Male’. |
