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Title: | Environmental impact assessment for harbor extension works at Fares-Maathodaa, Gdh. Atoll |
Authors: | Land and Marine Environmental Resources Group |
Keywords: | Harbor development projects Dredging Existing environment Marine surveys Existing socio-economic environment Environmental impacts Socio-economic impacts Mitigation measures Environmental monitoring program Environmental impact assessments |
Issue Date: | Apr-2016 |
Citation: | Land and Marine Environmental Resources Group. (2016). Environmental impact assessment for harbor extension works at Fares-Maathodaa, Gdh. Atoll. Male': Maldives |
Abstract: | Background
The non-technical summary outlines the findings of the Environmental Impact Assessment of
the proposed harbour extension works at Fares-Maathodaa, Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll. The proponent
of the proposed project is Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure. The total estimated cost of this
project is USD 843,060.
The proposed project involves extension of the existing facility (which lies on the northern
side of the island) by addition of 61m (along its length) to the eastern side of the facility. The
project also involves construction of the main quay wall along the extension area and a sand
bund breakwater along the outer boundary. Dredged material sourced will be disposed along the
shoreline to the east of 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. This impact was also anticipated to be of low effect due to the
location (shallow intertidal area with seagrass beds) and scale of project (even though loss of
seagrass beds from project site is a permanent impact). Overall, impacts identified were found to
be of low effect and restricted to the project site, with temporary effects. Positive impact due to
the project is the availability of a bigger and more planned area (dedicated area for unloading
and passenger use) for use by the numerous vessels of the island and those who visit the island.
Mitigation measures are discussed in the report for potential impacts, such as limiting
dredging activity to low tide phase to reduce possible sedimentation impacts. Detailed mitigation
measures are discussed in Section 11 of the report.
Given the scope of the project and need alternative has only been considered for the material
to be used for breakwater construction and location of extension. The no-project scenario which
was also considered, is not feasible, given the scope of project and associated impacts on
environment which are which are mainly of low effect and short term. The benefits on
continuation of project outweigh the impacts and hence the no-project scenario is not considered
a feasible option. The Consultant feels that the project is feasible with proper implementation of
the mitigation measures proposed to minimize the impact on the environment.
Stakeholder Consultation
Stakeholder consultation was undertaken with Island Council regarding the concept drawing
formulated by MHI. The council stated that they require a side quay wall to be included in the
eastern side and if excess dredged material is available back filling areas where erosion is
observed. Based on the stakeholder consultation, MHI agreed to change the concept design to
include a side quay wall at the eastern side. The revised final drawing is provided in Appendix 5
of this report. |
URI: | http://saruna.mnu.edu.mv/jspui/handle/123456789/5009 |
Appears in Collections: | ތިމާވެށި Environment A
|
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