| Abstract: | The non-technical summary outlines the findings of the Environmental Impact Assessment of the proposed harbour development works at Veyvah, Meemu Atoll. The proponent of the proposed project is Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure. The total estimated cost of this project is MVR 9 million.
The proposed project involves extension of the existing harbour facility at M. Veyvah, by 54m. The project also involves the construction of a quaywall for the area extended, installation of mooring buoys and harbour lights at the facility and paving of the area in front of the proposed extension area.
Key impacts, mitigation measures and alternatives
Impacts on the environment have been considered for the constructional phase and post constructional phase of the project. These impacts have been identified through interviews with the project management team, field data collection and surveys and are also based on past experience of consultant in similar development projects.
Impact analysis was done using the Leopold matrix. The impacts identified are described according to their location, probability of impact, magnitude, significance and duration. Mitigation measures have also been identified for impacts which are irreversible in nature.
Impact analysis showed that the main impact due to the project was during the construction phase, due to dredging activity. Impact due to dredging on habitat was anticipated to be of low effect (due to absence of live coral cover at direct impact area), while that due to sedimentation was anticipated to be of medium effect due to spread of sediment plume. Loss of habitat is also a permanent impact, while sedimentation impacts are temporary impact. Overall, impacts identified were found to be of low effect and restricted to the project site, with temporary effects.
One of the key social impacts is the question of feasibility of the project with proposed scope. As evident from the consultation meeting with the council and community, they were not in favour of the current design of the harbour facility, as it does not address any of the issues which were raised during their meetings with the proponent. While the proponent has stated that they will explore the feasibility of carrying out some of their requests, through this project (Section 8.2), continuation of the project as it is, is envisaged to have a negative impact on the community and their viewpoint on the project Mitigation measures are discussed in the report for potential impacts, such as limiting dredging activity to low tide phase to reduce possible sedimentation impacts and working within project boundary so as to minimise habitat loss. Detailed mitigation measures are discussed in Section 11 of the report.
Given the scope of the project and need, alternatives have only been considered for the following:
➢ Design of harbour ➢ Location of dredge material disposal
The no-project scenario which was also considered. However, if this option is selected, environmental impacts which are minor in most instances will be avoided. On the other hand, continuation of the project, based on the current design is envisaged to have significant negative social impacts as the council and community feel that their issues and concerns have not been addressed with the current design. Hence, consultant feels that continuation of the project is environmentally feasible, although in the context of social environment, continuation of the project is not feasible.
The Consultant thus recommends reconsideration of the design so as to make the project more favourable and feasible both in the context of environmental and social aspects, as well as fulfilling the need for the project |
