Environmental impact assessment for the proposed 14 storey building construction at G. Noomaraage Aage, Malé

Abstract

This report discusses the findings of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) carried out for the proposed 14 storey building at Noomaraage aage, Galolhu, Rahdhebai Magu, Malé. The objective of undertaking the project is to provide a residence to the proponent and family. The proponent also aims to rent out apartments in the building for residential use. The report has looked at the justifications for undertaking the proposed project components. Alternatives to proposed components or activities in terms of, design and environmental considerations were suggested. A mitigation plan and monitoring programme before, during and after the works has also been proposed. It is inevitable that there would be some negative environmental impacts, especially during excavation, dewatering and construction work is carried out. The potential environmental and social impacts from the overall project includes water contamination, shortage of groundwater, generation of waste, air pollution, noise pollution, disruption to traffic and interruption to commercial activities around the project location. After a survey and the study undertaken, these negative impacts identified are not severe enough to not allow the project. In light of possible impacts assessed, a comprehensive monitoring component has been suggested to monitor environmental (natural and social) impact during the course of this project. This monitoring component will be adhered and will allow the assessment of long term changes, despite the limited nature of the impact. In addition, the socioeconomic impacts that have been assessed have been identified as mostly positive impacts, not just in short term but also in long term. Therefore, from an environmental and technical point of view and in light of the existing socio-economic developments it appears justifiable to carry out the proposed project.