Environmental impact assessment for dredging of a swimming area at Kurendhoo island, Lhaviyani Atoll, Maldives

Abstract

This report discusses the findings of social and environmental impact study undertaken by Water Solutions Pvt. Ltd. at the request of Lh. Kurendhoo island council for the proposed swimming area development project at Kurendhoo. Kurendhoo with a total land area of about 20.9 hectares is located at 5°20'0.46"N and 73°27'49.19"E. The island has a population of 1230. This project includes dredging of 525m2 area of island lagoon from southwest side to a depth of 1.5 to 2 meters using an excavator. It is estimated that 800 cbm of sand will be dredged from this project. The dredge spoil generated from the project will be stockpiled on the island for later use. Environmental and socioeconomic impacts of the project were assessed. The impacts of the project result mainly from excavation of the lagoon basin of the area that had not been excavated. The impact of excavation would be that of sedimentation. It is recommended to finish the work as soon as possible to reduce the impact duration as the project involves excavating of a very small area. The project would help to address the current problem of lacking a safe swimming area in the island. The socio-economic benefits of the project may be considered to outweigh the negative impacts of the project on the physical environment of the island. Mitigation measures for these anticipated impacts have been identified and outlined in detail, including sedimentation control methods and measures for minimizing negative impacts of project activities. These mitigation measures need to be followed in order to minimize environmental damage. The EIA also allowed to explore the best possible alternatives for the proposed development and identified key mitigation strategies. Alternative locations and methodology have been investigated for this project. However, the present project design seems to be a feasible option in terms of costs and safety. An environmental management plan with environmental monitoring plan has been developed including important elements that require regular checks. This monitoring component will be adhered to and will allow the assessment of changes due to this project. Although the project involves negative environmental impacts, such impacts are not severe as not to go ahead with this project. The project is justifiable in light of the socio-economic conditions and anticipated benefits resulting from the project, which seem to outweigh the negative environmental impacts.