Environmental impact assessment for the proposed coastal protection at Embudhoo Village, South Male Atoll, Maldives

Abstract

This report discusses the findings of an environmental impact assessment undertaken by Water Solutions Pvt. Ltd for undertaking the coastal protection works at Embudhoo. The environmental monitoring that had been carried out at Embudhoo for the past 3 years indicates that the western side is undergoing chronic erosion and the coastal protection structures on the island are not functioning. Hence, there is a need to modify the existing coastal protection around and undertake beach replenishment as to recover the lost beach. It is proposed that a set of groynes will be established on western side and a breakwater on eastern side of the island using geotextile material. Beach nourishment will be undertaken using a sand pump aided by excavators. The material required for the beach nourishment works will be obtained from the proposed borrow areas on western side of the island. The total volume of material that needs to be obtained for beach nourishment on western and eastern side of the island is estimated to be 6400 m3. Environmental impacts were assessed for both the construction and operation phase of the project. Most of the environmental impacts of the project have been identified as resulting mainly from breakwater and beach replenishment. The main impact would be that of sedimentation on the lagoon. This impact is considered to be short‐term and cumulative. Nevertheless, mitigation measures have been proposed for anticipated negative impacts. Mitigation measures for these negative impacts have been identified and outlined in detail, especially sedimentation control methods. The most important mitigation measure is the use of bund walls in the replenishment areas. The measures proposed to minimize or mitigate environmental impacts may be considered to be quite appropriate, thereby minimizing the impact by about 90%. The main negative environmental impact of the proposed project would be sedimentation, which may cause death or partial death of corals. The proponent commits to undertake the mitigation and monitoring programme set out in this EIA report knowing that monitoring will help to identify the effectiveness of the mitigation measures and take precautions to minimize any damage to the main tourist attraction of the island, which is its environment. Therefore, it appears justified from a technical, social, economic and environmental point of view, to carry out the proposed modifications.