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Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment : proposed 10 storey building in M. Dhoonifushi, Male’
(2017-05) އާމިރު މުސްތަފާ; Musthafa, Amir
This report is based on the proposed 10 storey building construction at the residence, M. Dhoonifushi in the capital city, Male‟. The building is being constructed by Seven Weeks Construction Pvt. Ltd. The proponent of the project is Mr. Jawad Shakeel. 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 Orchid Magu, Male‟. There is no natural terrestrial environment at site, although there are some roadside vegetation in the area. The existing environment therefore was focussed 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 has moderate traffic. 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 general conditions with few masonry cracks as is the case in most of buildings. Older buildings were mostly single storey structures. Therefore, serious structural defects are expected to be at a minimum, especially considering the standard foundation protection methods. 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. The impacts that do occur however can 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 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, there are recommendations to make the development greener. These include interior landscaping to incorporate plants, 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. There are numerous such projects being undertaken currently in Male‟. Therefore, it is recommended that the project go ahead as proposed with precautions and mitigation measures in place.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment : proposed mixed residential apartment complex in plot no. C1-1 Hulhumale’ –FW construction
(2017-05) އާމިރު މުސްތަފާ; Musthafa, Amir
This report is based on the proposed mixed residential building construction in Plot No. C1- 1, Hulhumale‟. 12 storeys of the 14 storey structure will be allocated for residential purposes. The project is being developed by FW Construction Pvt. Ltd. and constructed by the same group. They are to undertake the construction works and project management including overseeing the EIA process. An Environmental Impact Assessment was necessary for the works as per the requirements of the signed agreement between FW Construction. and Housing Development Corporation (HDC). 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 HDC to proceed. HDC is a 100% government entity being given the responsibility to set guidelines and oversee all developments in Hulhumale‟. The project is part of larger program by HDC to establish mixed residential buildings in Hulhumale‟. Therefore, many similar EIAs has been done recently. Apartments in these buildings can generally be regarded as being targeted towards middle to upper class members of the community. The project will contribute to the grand plan by the government of reducing congestion in Male‟ by providing more housing opportunities in Hulhumale‟. By 2019, it is projected that there will be over 1000 such housing units built in Hulhumale‟. The existing environment at the project site does not consist of any significant vegetation and the water test result shows normal water quality. There are no residents living in close proximity to the site and there is no other structure at the site as well. Sandhura Apartment 4 towers is proposed to be built in the land north of the proposed site. During the construction stage, health and safety standards of the workers at site, and waste generation is the major areas of concern. With proper planning and project management, this can be easily mitigated. Waste is the main concern during the operational stage of the project as well. Since this will be developed as a condominium with multiple tenants owning the rights of the building, it has to be ensured that the tenants are held responsible to properly manage the waste in addition to maintaining the building. Further impacts to the adjacent construction site is foreseen. However, this can be mitigated with proper communication and planning before project implementation. Regarding alternatives, there are no viable alternatives available for the project with respect to location. The no project option is also not plausible at this stage and possibilities are EIA for the proposed mixed residential building in Plot No. C1 1, Hulhumale’ x outside the scope of this study. Other alternatives including material, foundation type, construction methodology are not necessarily recommended. Recommendations had been made to proceed with the project as planned. An environmental monitoring plan is proposed to be carried out with 2 phases; one for the construction stage, and one for 2 years post construction. Factors to investigate include surveying the amount of waste generation, noise pollution, traffic flow, health and safety at site and water quality. All the impacts as highlighted in the project can be mitigated. The socio-economic benefits to Greater Male‟ City from projects such as these is high. It also provides additional housing opportunities, which would contribute to alleviating the housing issues in Male‟ City, and therefore mitigating the issues related to congestion. Thus, after consideration of all these perspectives, it is recommended that this project proceed as planned, after incorporating the mitigation measures given in this study with the commitment to implementing the monitoring plan given.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment : proposed mixed residential apartment complex in plot No. D7-1, Hulhumale’
(2017-06) އާމިރު މުސްތަފާ; Musthafa, Amir
This report is based on the proposed mixed residential building construction in Plot No. D7- 1, Hulhumale’. Two towers will be constructed, one 12 storeys and the other 14 storeys. Both structures will have ground and first floor dedicated for parking and commercial areas. Rest of the floors will be allocated for residential purposes. The project is being developed by Mega Infra Projects Pvt. Ltd. and constructed by the same group. They are to undertake the construction works and project management including overseeing the EIA process. An Environmental Impact Assessment was necessary for the works as per the requirements of the signed agreement between Mega Infra Projects Pvt. Ltd. and Housing Development Corporation (HDC). 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 HDC to proceed. HDC is a 100% government entity being given the responsibility to set guidelines and oversee all developments in Hulhumale’. The project is part of larger program by HDC to establish mixed residential buildings in Hulhumale’. Therefore, many similar EIAs has been done recently. Apartments in these buildings can generally be regarded as being targeted towards middle to upper class members of the community. The project will contribute to the grand plan by the government of reducing congestion in Male’ by providing more housing opportunities in Hulhumale’. By 2019, it is projected that there will be over 1000 such housing units built in Hulhumale’. The existing environment at the project site does not consist of any significant vegetation and the water test result shows normal water quality. There are no residents living in close proximity to the site and there is no other structure at the site as well. However, one of the first projects in this mixed residential apartment building program, Amin Avenue is near the project site and is nearing completion and will be populated soon. Likewise, Treetop hospital is also near the project site. During the construction stage, health and safety standards of the workers at site, and waste generation is the major areas of concern. With proper planning and project management, this can be easily mitigated. Waste is the main concern during the operational stage of the project as well. Since this will be developed as a condominium with multiple tenants owning the rights of the building, it has to be ensured that the tenants are held responsible to properly manage the waste in addition to maintaining the building. Further impacts to surrounding areas are foreseen. However, this can be mitigated with proper communication and planning before project implementation. Regarding alternatives, there are no viable alternatives available for the project with respect to location. The no project option is also not plausible at this stage and possibilities are outside the scope of this study. Other alternatives including material, foundation type, construction methodology are not necessarily recommended. Alternative methods in managing and undertaking maintenance of the building is proposed. Recommendations had been made to proceed with the project as planned. An environmental monitoring plan is proposed to be carried out with 2 phases; one for the construction stage, and one for 2 years post construction. Factors to investigate include surveying the amount of waste generation, noise pollution, traffic flow, health and safety at site and water quality. All the impacts as highlighted in the project can be mitigated. The socio-economic benefits to Greater Male’ City from projects such as these is high. It also provides additional housing opportunities, which would contribute to alleviating the housing issues in Male’ City, and therefore mitigating the issues related to congestion. Thus, after consideration of all these perspectives, it is recommended that this project proceed as planned, after incorporating the mitigation measures given in this study with the commitment to implementing the monitoring plan given.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment : proposed MWSC port construction project Gulhifalhu, Kaafu Atoll, Maldives
(2017-05) އާމިރު މުސްތަފާ; Musthafa, Amir
This report is based on the proposed harbour works related Gulhifalhu, Kaafu Atoll. Gulhifalhu is located in Kaafu atoll, 5 km away from the Ibrahim Nasir International Airport, in Hulhule’. The operations of the island are under Gulhifalhu Investment Limited (GIL). However, the area in which the proposed development is to take place have been leased to MWSC on long term basis. An Environmental Impact Assessment was necessary for the project as the coastal modification works fall under the ‘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. This EIA is based on the following coastal related works: • Dredging an entrance channel and basin • Construction of harbour structures Gulhifalhu is an island that is currently designated for light to medium industrial level activities in the greater Male’ region. The major stakeholder of the island is Gulhifalhu Investment Limited (GIL), which is a state owned corporation formulated to attract investment to the island and overall development of Gulhifalhu. This EIA has been prepared by Amir Musthafa, a registered environmental consultant experienced in both environmental consultancy and coastal engineering works. The consultant has been actively engaged in coastal projects in the Maldives for the past 5 years. Amir was assisted by Mahfooz abdul Wahaab and Ibrahim Rashiu Adam, both environmental consultants. MWSC is in great need to streamline supply of manufactured materials to islands for different projects. Currently the main harbour area MWSC use for this purpose is in Hulhumale’ and Male’. This requires a lot of materials produced in to be transported within the greater Male’ region, which incurs high unnecessary costs. Therefore to make material transport more feasible and convenient in the long term, and to improve the services offered by MWSC to its various clients in the inner Atolls, there was a need to construct a harbour on the industrial land in Gulhifalhu which was already designated for MWSC. Tried and trusted standard methodology was used for the observations and study of the existing environment and subsequently to determine the potential impacts to the environment. The most significant impact from the project is the loss of habitat due to the dredging on the reef crest for the purpose on an entrance channel. However, this is inevitable. Live coral cover EIA for the proposed MWSC port construction project, Gulhifalhu, Kaa fu Atoll Proponent: MWSC ix in the work area is virtually non existent. Major impact from the project is nevertheless due to the removal of the reef crest to make the entrance channel to the harbour, thereby weakening the reef structure. This is an unavoidable impact if the harbour has to be developed on this area with the proposed design. Moderate impacts of concern include the temporary loss of water quality due to increased turbidity from the dredging works, and general impacts such as due to mismanagement of waste and health and safety issues. There are other general impacts such as the generation of noise health hazards during construction stage. These impacts can be mitigated by following best practices at the work place such as use of boundary walls to demarcate project area, warning sign boards, and use of protective equipment and clothing. Other main mitigation measures include proper planning of the project before mobilisation. There are bigger positive impacts from the project such as enabling the full use of the industrial area. Since it’s a coastal project, there are considerable alternatives to consider. Major alternatives include construction of the harbour on the eastern side of the island facing the lagoon rather than the deep sea, changing the layout of the harbour, changing materials used, etc. A comprehensive monitoring plan is provided at the end of the report. Monitoring is recommended to take place every month during the construction stage, once every 3 months for 1 year after the construction phase, and once each year for 5 years. Shoreline, water quality, status of the marine environment has been recommended to be monitored with these frequencies using standard methods as used in this report. After careful consideration of the need for the project, the viable alternatives available, and the impacts the project component causes, it is recommended that the project proceed as proposed. The preferred alternative is to construct the harbour on the eastern side, which will not have the said impacts on the reef and will also ensure a safer harbour area for vessels. However, due to plans by GIL for future developments in Gulhifalhu, it had been informed that this can not be entertained at this stage. It is recommended to undertake proper environment monitoring as there are many unknowns in such a project and the design may need to be refined based on subsequent observations as outlined in the monitoring plan. Undertaking the monitoring, along with the mitigation measures proposed in this report is necessary to ensure the sustainable development of the project with minimum harm to the environment
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment : prposed 10 storey building in M. Dhoonifushi, Male’
(2017-05) އާމިރު މުސްތަފާ; Musthafa, Amir
This report is based on the proposed 10 storey building construction at the residence, M. Dhoonifushi in the capital city, Male‟. The building is being constructed by Seven Weeks Construction Pvt. Ltd. The proponent of the project is Mr. Jawad Shakeel. 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 Orchid Magu, Male‟. There is no natural terrestrial environment at site, although there are some roadside vegetation in the area. The existing environment therefore was focussed 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 has moderate traffic. 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 general conditions with few masonry cracks as is the case in most of buildings. Older buildings were mostly single storey structures. Therefore, serious structural defects are expected to be at a minimum, especially considering the standard foundation protection methods. 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. The impacts that do occur however can 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 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, there are recommendations to make the development greener. These include interior landscaping to incorporate plants, 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. There are numerous such projects being undertaken currently in Male‟. Therefore, it is recommended that the project go ahead as proposed with precautions and mitigation measures in place.