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‟ |