Abstract: | This report is based on the proposed 10 storey building construction at the residence, H.
Asrafee Villa in the capital city, Male’. The project is being developed and constructed by W
Construction Pvt. Ltd., which will undertake the construction works and project management
including overseeing the EIA process. The proponent of the project is Adam Shafeeq.
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. 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 in the east end of
Male’. There is no natural terrestrial environment at site. 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 not endure much traffic relative to the general traffic
conditions in Male’. A general exterior overview of the existing structures in the area was
also observed. It was found that most of the buildings in the area were old structures and
maybe prone to some damages. Older buildings were mostly single storey structures and there
was one high rise building on the north eastern corner of the proposed site. Therefore, serious
structural defects are expected to be at a minimum, especially considering the standard
foundation protection methods. The report does recommend to undertake a structural defects
inspection study of the buildings in the same block as the proposed site by civil engineering
experts.
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 this project is 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 with this project, albeit an increase in cumulative impacts. The main reason
an EIA was required for the project was due to the basement construction and associated
impacts. 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.
The other impacts that do occur can also be easily mitigated to minimise and/or completely
nullify them. Mitigation measure proposed includes creating awareness among the
construction staff and neighbours regarding the scope of the project. 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 also
needs to 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 and equipment.
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 also,
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 impacts are predicted, none that the island
community is not yet enduring. Therefore, it is recommended that the project go ahead as
proposed with proposed precautions and mitigation measures as recommended in this study. |