| Abstract: | This report is based on the proposed 10 Storey Building Construction at the residence, M.
Nadhee in the capital city, Male‟. The project is being developed and by the proponent Ms.
Shifza Omar.
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 Kanba Aisa Rani Higun. The most prominent
institution near the project location is Maafannu Madharusa School, Hiriya School, and
Social Center. There is also another building development (M. Chambeylee Villa) project
near the area, for which the same consultancy team undertook an EIA recently.
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 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 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 due the basement
development. 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.
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' |
