Environmental impact assessment : proposed development of 13 storey apartment building in M. Marconi, Male’

Abstract

This report is based on the proposed 13 Storey Building Construction at the residence, M. Marconi in the capital city, Male‟. The project is being developed and by the proponent Mr. Ahmed Ali Manik. 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 Maafannu district, in Haveeree Higun – Chambeylee Magu – Rabee Higun intersection. The most prominent institution near the project location is the MPL harbour and offices. However, these are located on the outer „ring‟ road. There is no natural terrestrial environment at site as expected. 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 endures 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 project location is also favourable with respect to the issue of damages to nearby buildings, as the 3 sides of the building faces the road rather than adjacent buildings as is the case in most of projects undertaken in Male‟. The main building adjacent to the proposed structure is a building owned by the same landlords as the proposed site. Therefore, such issues are expected to be at a minimum. 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 such projects are 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 specific to this project, albeit an increase in cumulative impacts. The main reason an EIA was required for the project was height of the building. 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 creating awareness among the construction staff and neighbours regarding the scope of the project. Project vehicles and materials not taking up the parking space around the project area is also an important measure. 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 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 in close proximity to the lagoon, dewatering pipes need not be lengthy and 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 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 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. 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‟