Environmental impact assessment : for the proposed new structures in Macchafushi resort, South Ari Atoll, Maldives

Abstract

• This report discusses the findings of an environmental impact study undertaken by Water Solutions Pvt. Ltd. for the construction of additional structures in Macchafushi island • This project is proposed by Regent Maldives to develop an additional 34 new water villas, an over water dive school, lap pool and a sunset bar in Macchafushi. • Macchafushi is presently under construction and more than 95% of the construction has already been completed. • Recently, the resort, including all assets were purchased by Reagent Maldives Pvt.Ltd from the previous owner. The need for these additional new structures arose as a result of this take over. The new developers are proposing this in order to enhance the resort facilities and upgrade and diversify the products on offer to guests. • This report has identified that the major impacts of the project will be felt on the marine environment almost all the new structures proposed will be constructed over water. Impacts on the marine environment will be felt through direct impact on corals and sedimentation and siltation caused by the construction activities both to the lagoon and the coral reef, during the construction period. Baseline data has, therefore, been collected in order to monitor the changes to the marine environment which will be identified in periodical monitoring reports. The most significant impact will be felt on the reef flat and lagoon bottom. • Alternatives to the project have also been considered in detail and several alternatives to the proposed project were considered, including alternative methods of water villa construction and alternative locations. One alternative that has been suggested is to construct the water villas on large but minimal number of columns. Other alternatives considered include alternative locations and construction strategy. An alternative location has also been suggested. Due to various reasons, these alternatives have not been considered. The advantages and disadvantages of these alternatives have been discussed. • Towards, the end of the report, a monitoring programme has been suggested which mainly covers the marine environment. These include coral cover and marine water quality among many other parameters. As the impacts are felt on the marine environment, it is important to undertake this monitoring.