Abstract: | This report is based on the proposed 10 storey building construction at the residence, M.
Yookafi in the capital city, Male’. The project is being developed by the proponent and
landlord Abdul Baari Yoosuf and constructed by FEDO Construction Pvt. Ltd.
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. 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 in the north west
end of Male’. There is no natural terrestrial environment at site. 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 not endure much traffic relative to the
general traffic conditions in Male’. However, as traffic space is very limited due to the
narrow roads and heavy parking, there are frequent traffic jams. A general exterior overview
of the existing structures in the area was also observed. It was found that most of the
buildings in the area were old structures and maybe prone to some damages. Older buildings
were mostly double storey structures and there was one high rise building adjacent to the
project site, which the proponent of this project resides. Serious structural defects are
expected to be at a minimum, especially considering the standard foundation protection
methods.
The overall environmental impacts of the project have been assessed using frameworks
found 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.
The main cause for concern regarding this project 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. As there are
numerous high storey building projects being undertaken in Male’, there is no particular
long term impact associated with this project, albeit an increase in cumulative impacts. The
main reason an EIA was required for the project was due to the basement construction and
associated impacts. These can be mitigated by restricting the type of storage materials in the
area, implementing fire safety systems, and proper mechanical ventilation and drainage.
Submersible pumps are proposed for the project as well as mechanical ventilation.
The other impacts that do occur can also be easily mitigated to minimise and/or completely
nullify them. Mitigation measure proposed includes creating awareness among the
construction staff and neighbours regarding the scope of the project. 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. 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 also
needs to 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 and equipment.
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 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, it can
be concluded that no significant long-term impacts are predicted, none that the island
community is not yet 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 recommended in
this study. |