Abstract: | This report is based on the proposed 13 storey building construction at the residence, M. Dhimyaath in the capital
city, Male’. The project is being developed and constructed by Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. He will be undertaking the
construction works and project management including overseeing the EIA process.
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 favorable 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 to proceed.
The area the project is proposed to be undertaken is a moderately built area in the heart of Male’, more towards
the south western side. There is no natural terrestrial environment at site. The existing environment therefore was
focused on the regional climate of Male’, and the traffic distribution, and noise pollution in the area. As could be
seen from the data, this area does not encourage much traffic relative to the busier roads in Male’. There were
several existing construction sites in the neighborhood. 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 in good condition. Older
buildings were mostly single storey structures. Therefore, serious structural defects are expected to be at a
minimum. However, the report recommends 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, 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. One significant impact specific to this project is the
cumulative impact on the neighbourhood due to the sheer no. of construction projects that are simultaneously
undertaken in the area. The impacts that do occur however can be easily mitigated to minimise and/or completely
nullify them. The first mitigation measure proposed includes creating awareness among the construction staff and
neighbours regarding the scope of the project. Other measures include properly demarcating the area, putting up
dust screens, and taking other 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. Dewatering procedure also needs to
be undertaken with care, details of which are given in the report. During the operation stage of the project, parking
and waste management are issues of note.
Alternatives, including the no project option and alternatives for some project components are also discussed.
Regarding project design, a few alternatives are recommended such as providing a green area at the terrace, while
the pros and cons of making a larger parking area is also discussed.
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. Therefore, it is recommended that the project go ahead as proposed with precautions and mitigation
measures in place. |