Environmental impact assessment for the relocation of feul tanks at MWSC compound, Male’ City

Abstract

Background The non-technical summary outlines the findings of the Environmental Impact Assessment of the proposed relocation of existing fuel tanks of the Male’ Water and Sewerage Company Pvt Ltd. The proponent of the proposed project is Male’ Water and Sewerage Company Pvt Ltd. The total estimated cost of this project is MVR 1,000,000.00 The proposed project involves relocation of the existing fuel tanks of the Male’ Water and Sewerage Company Pvt Ltd which is as per recommendation by the MNDF, following the fire incident which occurred at the facility in 2015. Key impacts, mitigation measures and alternatives Impacts on the environment from various activities of the construction work and during the operation of the facility 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. Mitigation measures have also been identified for impacts which are irreversible in nature. Impact analysis was done using the Leopold matrix. Impact analysis showed that impact due to the project was due to possible accidental spillage and leakage during the construction phase and operational phase. However, this impact was envisaged to be minor to moderate during both phases and reasons for this are discussed in Section 9. Mitigation measures are discussed in the report for potential impacts, including mitigation in the event of accidental spillage/leakage and consequent groundwater contamination. Measures include careful handling and daily inspection of fuel lines/bund wall for detection of leakage. Given the scope of the project and the need, the “do-nothing” option or no project scenario is the only alternative available for the project. If this is chosen the fuel tanks would remain at the existing location, which has been identified as one which is not feasible or ideal technically or safety-wise. Furthermore, the existing location does not confirm to regulation regarding fuel handling and storage. Hence the no-project scenario is considered not feasible and thus the project will be continued. Furthermore, with due consideration to the project need, which is urgent and environmental impacts, which have been found to be minor, the Consultant feels that the project is feasible and that appropriate mitigation measures have been considered to further minimize impact on the environment.