Environmental impact assessment for the proposed harbour development at Dhangethi, Alifu Dhaalu Atoll, Maldives

Abstract

Non Technical Summary This report discusses the findings of a social and environmental impact study undertaken by Water Solutions Pvt. Ltd. at the request of the Ministry of Construction and Public Infrastructure. The project involves the development of a new harbour in Dhagethi, Aalifu Dhaalu Atoll. This project is initiated by the government of Maldives as part of the Access Programme implemented by the MCPI. The environment of Dhangethi may be described as properly managed, with several environmental achievements including appropriate solid waste management, development of a sewerage system with nearshore outfalls to some degree, modest housing with ventilation, appropriate level of urban planning, beach and recreational areas for the residents and visitors including tourists visiting the islands from neighbouring resorts. Stakeholder consultations were held with various groups, including the community and the client in order to incorporate the socio‐economic components in the project. It was observed that the community of Dhangethi is independent and people are ready to make a difference by community involvement, participation and empowerment that has achieved through the economic prosperity that have achieved through tourism in the region. Environmental impacts were assessed for both the construction and operation phase of the project. Most of the environmental impacts of the project have been identified as resulting mainly from excavation and disposal of excavated materials. The main impact of dredging would be that of excessive sedimentation on the nearby reef areas. This impact is considered to be a moderate but short‐term impact. Development of the harbour would have irreversible impact and its location would have a long term impact. The socio‐economic benefits of the project may be considered to outweigh the negative impacts of the project on the physical environment of the island as the island is located on a strategic location in the middle of high density of resorts. Mitigation measures for these anticipated impacts have been identified and outlined in detail, including sedimentation control methods and other measures. These mitigation measures will have to be followed in order to minimize environmental damage. The proposed harbour details for Dhangethi has been prepared after considering the needs and requirements from the community by assessing and incorporating the outcomes from the extensive community consultations held during the data collection stage. It is inevitable that there would be negative environmental impacts, especially when excavation is undertaken. Nevertheless, these negative impacts are not severe to the extent that the project should not be allowed to take place. As a result, a monitoring component has been suggested which takes in to consideration, the most important elements that require regular checks. This monitoring component will be adhered to and will allow the assessment of changes due to construction of harbour. Monitoring is specifically focussed on water quality changes. Therefore, it appears justified from a technical and from an environmental point of view, to carry out the proposed project in light of the existing socio‐economic developments and forecasts made on the harbour use and traffic increase.