Browsing by Author | މުސައްނިފުން "Maldives Energy and Environmental Company"

Now showing 1 - 21 of 21

Technical Report
EIA for construction of K. Villingili west harbour & slipway project
(2015-11) Maldives Energy and Environmental Company
1. The Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure requested the services of Maldives Energy and Environmental Company (MEECO) to provide an Environmental Impact Study (EIA) for the for the construction of a harbour and a slipway on the western side of Villingili Island, K. Atoll. 2. The assessment addresses specific key issues stated in the Terms of Reference (TOR) as agreed between EPA and the Proponent following the Scoping Meeting held on the matter. 3. This EIA report was prepared for the fulfilment of the requirements of the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, 2012 with the purpose of conducting an assessment of possible impacts on biophysical and human environment arising from proposed development project. 4. The project is proposed by Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure, Maldives. 5. The main construction activities of the proposed project involve construction dredging of the existing harbour basin to a depth of 3m at mean sea level. The dimensions are 73m by 21m. A 73m long seawall made from rock boulders will be laid on the reef-flat on the western side of the island. The beach on the northern side of the harbour area will be filled and nourished. The construction activities will be completed within 150 days from the start of the construction phase. The project cost is estimated as MVR 09 million. 6. This development aims to improve the degraded western harbour with additional facilities with the objective of improving country’s critical infrastructures. With the development of the western harbour at Villingili it is expected it would contribute alleviate the issues of the congestion at the Villingilli main harbour and make available critical facilities to the people living in Villingili to enhance their socio-economic development. Villingili with a sizeable population currently lacks a proper waste transfer arrangement. With the development of the slipway, it is expected a critical aspect of the waste management will be resolved thereby bringing environmental as well as health benefits to the community. 7. The consultants assessed the potential environmental impacts using sound scientific methodology, literature review and experiences from the past projects of similar nature. In addition views and opinions of the key stakeholders have been reflected in the report. The main findings have been summarised in the following sub-paragraphs. a. Improving the harbour facility in Villingili will benefit boat owners, fishermen of Villingili in particular and those requiring boat maintenance service in general. b. Environmental impacts assessment carried out for the project indicates that the project can be successfully implemented without an irreversible significant damages to the environment. c. The project, however, has inevitable low magnitude negative impacts, including, sedimentation over parts of the reef, noise and vibration from construction activities, pollution from solid and hazardous waste. In addition, construction activities may result in temporary closure of the beach area with resulting loss of income to small businesses which depend commercial activities centered on the area. Additionally, boat owner who use western harbour may also face difficulties when its closed off for reconstruction. During the operational phase of the project, it is predicted with the proposed design of the harbour water stagnation within the harbour basin is likely to occur and that during southwestern monsoon floating litter could accumulate near the shoreline of the harbour. d. All environmental and socio-economic impacts identified in the report are temporary, localised and can be mitigated with the actions proposed. e. The project is in line with the government’s policies of developing access facilities, improve transport infrastructure and can be implemented in fully compliance with the relevant laws and regulations. 8. The Proponent has given full commitment to undertake mitigation measures and carryout the monitoring to ensure negative effects are effectively mitigated and corrective measures are taken in a timely manner. 9. It is thus concluded that the project’s benefits outweighs its imposition on the environment and it can be implemented while giving due consideration to concerns related to the environment.
Technical Report
Environment impact assessment report reclamation of Himmafushi K. Atoll, Maldives
(2015-12) Maldives Energy and Environmental Company
1. This report provides the finding of an environmental impact assessment conducted for the reclamation of 21.6 hectares land on the southeastern lagoon of Himmafushi to facilitate much needed additional land for the residents of the island. The project is proposed by Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure. According to EIA Regulations 2012, an Environmental Impact Assessment is required for reclamation and dredging projects. Hence, this report has been prepared to fulfil the requirements under the EIA regulations. 2. Himmafushi is a highly industrial island community and the industrial footprint covers 30% of the total land area, 35% is utilized for residential plots and 25% used for government use. As a result, almost all land available is currently being used for housing, economic establishments and socio- economic infrastructure on the island and the island is land-locked. Hence, there is an urgent and immediate need for additional land to meet the various demands. It is estimated that 745,200 cubic metres of borrow materials would be needed to reclaim 21.6 hectares of land in Himmafushi. The proposed locations for the sand borrow areas are within intra-atoll basin of AA Atoll. Alternatives have been identified in the project document. These include alternatives for the dredge areas, dredge method and alternative locations for land reclamation. 3. Himmafushi is located in a sensitive geographic area where its house reef is shared by two popular tourist resorts and two marine protected areas are situated within close proximity to the island. These sensitivities have been taken into account when analysing the impacts. Environmental impacts were identified and assessed for both the reclamation (construction) phase and operational phase of the project. The negative impacts of the project would be felt mostly during the construction (reclamation) phase and on the marine ecosystem. Sedimentation has been highlighted to be one of the most important negative effects of the project. Following careful evaluation of the negative impacts, appropriate and practical mitigation measures have been proposed to reduce adverse impacts that would arise from the project. Significant positive impacts have been identified for the implementation phase resulting. The project would not only address the land shortages for housing but also will boost the economy of the island due to stimulated businesses. These positive effects would translate into improved socio-economic conditions and improved well-being of the community. 4. The Proponent, Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure is committed to undertake the necessary mitigation measures and monitoring during all stages of the project. The project is in line with the national development polices of the government and panned to be executed in compliance with the relevant laws and regulations of the Maldives pertaining to conservation of the environment. 5. In conclusion, this EIA has looked into the key factors that shall be taken into account during construction and operational stage of the project. Even though this project does have significant environmental impacts to the marine environment, with appropriate measures, those negative effects can be mitigated to an acceptable level. It is also worth highlighting significant positive impacts that the project is expected to bring to the community would translate into improved living conditions and overall social well-being of the community.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for development of drainage works and storm water infiltration galleries in H. DH. Kulhudhuffushi, Maldives
(2014-09) Maldives Energy and Environmental Company
Kulhudhuffitshi Island with a population of over 8900 people is the most populated island in the northern region of the country and is considered to be the third largest population in the Maldives. The island is currently the hub of all commercial activities in the north. Physical and infrastructure developments have although brought socio-economic improvements to the resident community it has also come at an environmental cost. Among the environmental issues faced to the island, stormwater flooding has been considered having impacts on the people in many different ways. Land reclamation, reclamation of the wetland, destruction of the coastal vegetation belt and increased use of vehicles on sandy roads without an engineered drainage system have all contributed to the occurrences of stormwater flooding in the island. In an attempt to address the issue of stormwater in Kulhudhuffushi, the Integrating Climate Change Risks into Resilient Island Planning Project (ICCRRIP) commissioned Male Water Supply and Sewerage Company (MWSC) and Engineering Consultant PVT. Ltd to undertake a study to identify technical options available to solve the flooding problem. Subsequently a report on the findings was submitted to ICCRRIP in 2013. The study proposed a number of options for stormwater management in the island. The recommended method being that stormwater from the gutters and soak pits be connected to a pipeline terminating into underground storage tanks consisting of blocks of AquaCell which has an extensive range of modular cell products and are known to provide an efficient and sustainable method of storing large volumes of run-off for water attenuation or soakaway applications. These underground water tanks would hold the water and release into the ground slow enough for the ground to be able to absorb water and ultimately re-charging the groundwater lens. The report divides the island catchment areas into four zones and recommends two flood prone areas in the northern and the southern part of the island for piloting flood control by this method. However, due to the limited financing available for the piloting flood control by this method. However, due to the limited financing available for the project, it has been decided to pilot the drainage activities in the north eastern region of the island only. This would involve diversion of storm water from six roads namely, Marukazu Magu, Miskiy Magu, Soafiya Higun, Madharusaa Magu, Dhanbu Magu and Orchid Magu. Approved project cost is MVR 16 million. Maldives Road Development Corporation (MRDC) has been selected as the contractor for the project while MWSC will supervise their work. MRDC intends to merge pilot project activities with the on-going road construction works. The project planning, design and surveying began in July 2014 and is entire project is expected to completed and handed over by the contractor during the first half of November. The site clearance and the earthworks is expected to start as soon as EIA clearance is sought and have been planned to be completed within about 30 days. hi order to proceed with the proposed drainage works and installation of the stormwater infiltration galleries and EIA was commissioned to obtain environmental clearance and the EIA was conducted based on the Terms of Reference agreed between the Consultant and the EPA. The EIA recognizes the importance and urgency of addressing the heavy rain associated flooding in Kulhudhuffushi based on the field investigations backed by Detailed Island Risk Assessment in Maldives (2007) and Detailed Island Risk and Vulnerability Assessment (2013). The impact analysis show no significant negative impact expected to be arising out of any activity associated with the project. Project involves minor excavations, potential dewatering, filling back and operation of vehicles and temporary enclosure of the project sites. These may have minor and temporary negative impacts to the scenic view and vista. Potential post-project negative enviromnental impact could arise out of breeding of mosquitos and pests in the tanks, in the pipeline and soakpits due to standing water. Through proper maintenance of the system the problem could be largely avoided. Potential socio-cultural impacts associated with the pilot project include, disruption to services, and temporary obstacles to right of way. Minor negative socio-cultural and environmental impacts associated with the project are temporary and reversible in nature. These further could be mitigated through appropriate mitigation measures. The most expected positive impact expected from the project will be improvement to the drainage. With the project the project is expected to alleviate drainage issue from an area measuring 175,000m2 of urban land with better drainage, and as indirect positive impacts, the project is expected to further improve groundwater, reduce potential contaminants reaching the marine environment, leading to improved public health and quality of life through reduced risk of waterborne and water-related diseases and increased public satisfaction with the urban environment. The project is expected to bring some minor positive impacts to the local economy during the three phases of the project as a results of temporary opportunities created during the works. Several major realistic and practical alternatives have been assessed including the 'no project alternative'. Without the project, the funds allocated for the project could be saved but may run the risk of losing it since the project may not have adequate time left before closure. Since, detailed designs, engineering drawings and contractor for the project has already been selected it would be completely unrealistic and wasteful to even consider utilizing the funds for a different activity. Considering meeting the objectives of the project, environmental and economical superiority of the alternatives evaluated, undertaking a pilot project in one of the flood prone area using underground tanks in empty available space for drainage has been found to the best practical option. The Council expressed their wish implement the project in the Zone A (the south east region) as opposed to Zone B (north east region). They were of the view that Zone A floods more severely compared to Zone B and therefore, the project would have greater impact by this shift. Considering that the detailed design has already been done for this zone, it is recommended to change the project location as suggested by the Council in order to increase public acceptability of the project. The intended positive impacts of the project can only be accurately determined by the post-project monitoring scheme. In order to ensure effectiveness of underground stomi water collection tanks in mitigating against flooding it is essential to monitor, collect information, evaluate the information collected and disseminated. With the following recommendations duly considered or addressed appropriately, the ETA found that the positive aspects of the project far outweigh its negative impacts. ■ Bank of Maldives Branch at Kulhudhuffushi have not been consulted during the design phase on the possible installation of an underground tank within their compound. ETA suggests that prior to the onset of ground work that the Bank be consulted for their consent. ■ Location identified for the tank at the football ground need to be relocated from the southwest corner to the northwest corner in order to reduce the pipeline length as well as the associated costs. ■ Capacity of the underwater tank proposed for Bank of Maldives' compound seem to be of inadequate capacity since it the region covers 53% of the total pilot project area. ■ It is not clear how the existing design will address the over-flow should such a situation arise. This issue need to be resolved prior to the construction. ■ Post project maintenance and management shall be discussed and agreed with the island council in order to avoid potential mosquito and other pest issues as a result of the project. If the pilot project is successful in managing storm water in the piloted area, the system will be expended to other regions of Kulhudhuffushi Island and similar systems it could be replicated elsewhere in the Maldives.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for harbour development in Fainu Island, Raa Atoll
(2014-12) Maldives Energy and Environmental Company
The proponent of R. Fainu harbour development project is the Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure. The Ministry is the government's responsible body for the development and regulate the housing and infrastructure of the country. Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) has been contracted to undertake the harbour construction work in K Fainu. Maldives Energy and Environmental Company (MEECO) has been contracted to provide preparation services of an Environmental Impact Study (EIA) by (MTCC) for the development of a harbour in IL Fainu Island to accommodate easy access and provide mooring facilities for the vessels. The assessment addresses specific key issues stated in the Terms of Reference (TOR) as agreed between EPA and the Proponent following the Scoping Meeting held on the matter. The Government started development of a harbour in R. Fainu in early 2011. Harbour dredging work started in 2011 but mid-way through the project the dredging work was stopped and the contactor pulled out their equipment after a contractual dispute. The company left creating a mass with uncompleted work and piles of sand and dredged material gathered at the fringes of the dredged areas. Due to this the sand piles accumulated at the harbour area gradually inundated, eroded and spread on the on the reef and lagoon and deposited making the harbour shallow and unusable. At present, apart from a narrow strip, most of the dredged area is completely filled with and remaining deeper areas are hardly usable for mooring vessels. The need for a proper harbour for the island has been recognised by the government and decided to develop a new harbour west of the existing dredged area to provide safe passage and shelter for the vessels operating to and from R. Fainu Island. The study investigates impacts associated with the dredging of R. Fainu harbour basin, entrance channel, harbour protection; tinctures and areas for disposal of dredged material. Also the impact of uncompleted dredging and harbour development work to the reef and lagoon of R. Fainu Island. The proposed harbour has a width of 200ft and a length of 305ft and an entrance channel which will be cut through the reef into the atoll lagoon has a width of 18m and a length of 60m. The harbour basin will be dredged to maintain an avenge depth of -3m with respect to the MSL. A total of approximately 15,000 cubic meters of dredged material is expected to be produced. This material will be used for reclamation on both eastern and western side of the harbour and excess will be used for the nourishment of the beach on the east coast of the island which at present is undergoing severe erosion. The environmental baseline of the island has been established in the approved EIA report of Fainu Island prepared in 2010. Main focus this reports is to document the changes that occurred after the harbour dredging activities conducted in 2011. This EIA has been carried out on the basis that it is necessary to carry out harbour development project at R. Fainu to facilitate socio-economic development and easy access to the island. The project has a number positive and negative impacts. The negative impacts can be effectively mitigated through right actions and implementation of the monitoring plan.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for land reclamation at Thinadhoo, G.Dh Atoll, Maldives
(2015-12) Maldives Energy and Environmental Company
This report provides the finding of an environmental impact assessment conducted for the reclamation of 56 hectares on the north and south of Thinadhoo to facilitate much needed additional land for the residents of the island. The project is proposed by Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure. According to EIA Regulations 2012, an Environmental Impact Assessment is required for reclamation and dredging projects. Thinadhoo is a highly urbanized settlement and the settlement footprint covers 90% of the total habitable land area. As a result almost all land available is currently being used for housing, economic establishments and socio- economic infrastructure on the island and the island is land-locked. Hence, there is an urgent and immediate need for land reclamation in Thinadhoo. It is estimated that approximately 1.5 million cubic metres of borrow materials would be needed to reclaim 56 hectares of land in Thinadhoo. The proposed locations for the sand borrow areas are within intra-atoll basin of Gdh. Atoll. Alternatives have been identified in the project document. These include alternatives for the dredge areas, dredge method and alternative reclaimed areas. In addition, a coastal protection of the 80% of the reclaimed land (approximately 1852 m) would be put in place. Environmental impacts were identified and assessed for both the reclamation (construction) phase and operational phase of the project. Most of the environmental impacts of the project have been identified as positive resulting mainly from improved socio-economic conditions, increased economic activities in Gdh. Atoll as a whole, direct and indirect employment opportunities, and increased business opportunities. The main negative environmental impact of the project is identified to be the changes in hydrodynamics and sedimentation. Moreover, a significant impact would be felt on the marine environment in the northern part where an inevitable habitat loss would occur. The impacts of the project would be felt on the marine ecosystem of Thinadhoo and mitigation measures have been proposed to reduce sedimentation and other adverse impacts that would arise from the project. Mitigation measures such as, proper timing of dredging and reclamation, management of traffic, proper use of bund walls or silt screens have been proposed. If not properly managed, there could be cumulative impacts due to sedimentation which is already experienced in the nearby reef systems. These include provision of bunds and control of dredge water flow in to the marine environment. These methods have been discussed in detail in the report. The main mitigation measure for the proposed project would be the provision of shore protection for the newly reclaimed areas. The Proponent, Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure is committed to undertake monitoring during all stages of the project. The activities proposed in the project comply with the environmental laws of the Maldives, its rules and regulations. In conclusion, this EIA has looked into the key factors that needed to be looked in to during construction and operational stage. In my opinion, even though this project does have significant environmental impacts to the marine environment, the significant positive impacts that would arise from the reclamation to an atoll that lacks many natural resources for other economic gain, the additional land would provide such as asset for the wellbeing of the population and residents of the island/atoll.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for redevelopment of harbour at Meemu Atoll Dhiggaru
(2015-01) Maldives Energy and Environmental Company
This report discusses the findings of the environmental impact study undertaken by MEECO Pvt. Ltd. at the request of the Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure to redevelop the harbour of Meemu atoll Dhiggaru. This EIA report is prepared in accordance with Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, 2007 under the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act (Act No. 4/93). The purpose of this EIA is to fulfill the requirement of the Law and to conduct an assessment of possible impacts on ecological, biophysical environment and socioeconomics arising from the proposed reconstruction. The main rationale of this project is to increase the safety, accessibility of the current harbor. This project is particularly important as the islands economy mainly depends on fisheries sector. With the current increasing demand of the fishing vessels and the growing sizes of the vessels, an extension of the harbor is needed. This will also enable more job opportunities in Dhiggaru where unemployment rate is high. The existing landside quay wall was constructed to shore extent of the island at the time of construction. However, the quay wall was not extended with the recent reclamation and addition of land. Therefore the reclaimed shore was left as rocks and rubbles. With time, this has become unusable and become difficult for mooring the vessels. To keep pace with the growing demands for the use of the harbor, it became necessary to reconstruct the harbor covering this area. The project involves redevelopment of the exiting harbour in order to facilitate and improve the facilities provided by the harbour. The exiting quay wall on landside would be extended to a have a total length of 268m and the width of the harbour would be extended to 86m. A maintenance dredging would also be carried to a depth of 3m below MSL. In addition, the project also involves relocation of the southern breakwater to further south extending the width and raising of the breakwater heights to 2m above MSL. Breakwater of total length of 449m would also be constructed. The existing entrance channel with a width of 25m would also undergo a maintenance dredging and would be extended in length. It is estimated that approximately 15,500m3 of sand would be dredged from the basin. The dredged material would be used to reclaim the land northwest of the harbor and some of the material would be used in the graveyard. Key impacts The impacts of the project result mainly during construction from activities such as maintenance dredging and reclamation of the land on the North West. Sedimentation and increase in turbidity can impact the marine environment. The reclamation can change the hydrodynamics of the island and will take some to come to equilibrium although this will address the issue of coastal erosion in that area. Baseline environmental conditions at the project site indicated that the live coral cover was almost zero and fish count is very less, showing minimum impact on marine habitat. Indirect impact may also occur from silting which is a short term impact. However, the major socioeconomic impact is found to be positive. Easing the access and creating space for more vessels will facilitate the local users of the harbor and enable development of harbor dependent sectors and livelihood of the residents of M.Dhiggaru. Key negative impacts of the project are found to be significant in short term. These negative environmental impacts weighed against socio-economic positive impacts acts as a justification for the project. Mitigation measures Mitigation measures were taken by conducting appropriate field surveys and environmental assessment of the island, proposed and alternative locations for development of the harbor. The excavation would be carried out during the high tides to allow maximum flushing of the sediments. Reclamation would be done during low tides to minimize the erosion and washing away of the material. The necessary announcements and proper use of sign boards will be used to minimize the difficulties caused during the construction works. Alternate locations and technology The proposed location where the dredged material would be used is the best location as it is the most needed location to be reclaimed for future plans of the island. Alternative technology are not recommended either due to expensive process or the available technology not suitable to the environmental conditions. An environmental management plan with environmental monitoring was developed taking into consideration the impacts and mitigation measures to be implemented. The important elements that require checks such as sediment dynamics, coral cover, shoreline changes, water quality and hydrodynamics will be monitored according to the developed monitoring program during construction and operation period. Although the project involves inevitable negative environmental impacts, such impacts are not serve as to not undertake the project. Mitigation measures have been proposed to adequately minimize the significant impacts. Hence, the project is justifiable in light of the socioeconomic conditions and anticipated benefits from the project which clearly outweigh the negative environmental impacts.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for rehabilitation and repair of harbour at Inguraidhoo Island, Raa Atoll
(2015-08) Maldives Energy and Environmental Company
1. The Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure requested the services of Maldives Energy and Environmental Company (MEECO) to provide an Environmental Impact Study (EIA) for the rehabilitation and repair of the harbour, Inguraidhoo Island, Raa Atoll, Maldives. 2. The assessment addresses specific key issues stated in the Terms of Reference (ToR) as agreed between EPA and the Proponent following the Scoping Meeting held on the matter. 3. Inguraidhoo harbour was developed in 1998 by dredging into the island from the original coastline of the Island to create the required space for the harbour basin. Since then there was a major repair done in the year 2005, however, the repair and maintenance activity for the harbour had been performed was not adequate. Moreover, the island envision of expanding the basin to cater to the growing demand of increasing vessels in the island. 4. Inguraidhoo has a registered population of 1,842 people. Due to the poor design and workmanship during the construction of its existing harbour, it has failed to provide much anticipated protection and safety for the travellers and vessels. Consequently, the people of the island have suffered enormously. The present entrance channel creates dangerous situations particularly during the rough weather conditions. There had been several incidents of damages to the vessels, people and to property while trying to pass through the channel. In addition to the problems caused due to the deterioration of the breakwater, the original height of the seawall is not adequate to prevent overtopping of waves into the harbour basin creating very rough conditions during bad weather. Similarly the low height of the quay wall allows overtopping of waves into the coast causing flooding. 5. In order to alleviate the above problems the Proponent intends to rehabilitate the breakwater, extending the breakwater to provide protection for the harbour entrance, constructing revetment on the northern and southern ends of the harbour adjoining the land, maintenance dredging of shallow areas within the harbour basin and the entrance channel. 6. The Consultants assessed the potential environmental impacts using sound scientific methodology, literature review and experiences from the past projects of similar nature. In addition views and opinions of the key stakeholders have been reflected in the report. The main findings have been summarised in the following sub-paragraphs. a. Due to the critical role the harbour plays in the socio-economic development of the island, the existing problems associated with the harbour need to be addressed as a matter of priority. b. Environmental impacts assessment carried out for the project indicates that the project can be successfully implemented without an irreversible significant damages to the environment and that the socio-economic benefits to the community and the region far outweighs minor damages that may arise out of the project. c. The project, however, has inevitable low magnitude negative impacts, including, sedimentation over parts of the reef, noise and vibration due to piling and construction activities, pollution from solid and hazardous waste. Hence, the project shall put in place the mitigation measures prescribed in the report while undertaking the project activities. 7. The Inguraidhoo harbour maintenance and rehabilitation project is of utmost importance to the people of the island. The project is in line with the government’s policies and can be implemented in fully compliance with the relevant laws and regulations. The Proponent has given full commitment to undertake mitigation measures given in the report during the project implementation. Hence the negative impacts can be effectively mitigated through the prescribed actions and the project could be implemented successfully.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for the proposed reclamation of eastern side of a Dh. Fenfushi
(2016-04) Maldives Energy and Environmental Company
1. This report provides the finding of an environmental impact assessment conducted for a proposed reclamation project in A Dh. Fenfushi, initiated by Fenfushi island council in accordance with the Environmental Act and EIA Regulations 2012. The report was compiled by Maldives Environment and Energy Company (MEECO) to fulfil the requirements of law. The main objective of the project is to create space to establish developmental infrastructures that have been planned, which include providing the necessary recreational facilities to the island population. 2. Fenfushi is situated at the southern tip of A Dh. Atoll and has a land area of 218,422 m2. The island is situated close to a resort and an uninhabited island which has been leased to the resort. Surveys show that eastern side of the island is populated while the western side largely remains natural. The island has a population of 1,000. Most of the people from the island are employed in the tourism sector. Since the majority of the island consists of young adults, the need for public recreational facilities are great. However, the island does not have enough recreational facilities such as football fields. The only football field on the island is next to a cemetery. Sightings of human remains lead to the field being abandoned. The project was devised to address the needs of islands main population group which comprises of young adults who require recreational facilities. The current football field is situated next to the island cemetery and part of the field is on top of the cemetery few inches above burial sites. This has created a sense of fear amongst its users as playing on top of burial sites is emotionally stressing and on religious terms unacceptable. In order to address the issue, the council had initially designed to construct a football field and net ball court within the current footprint of the island, however lack of space available in the island specially populated side (eastern) of the island prompted the council to devise and propose reclamation of eastern side of the island to solve the developmental and space issues faced by the island. 3. The proposed project will involve reclamation of of 39,314 m2 from the eastern lagoon of the island. Field surveys indicated 28,477m3 sand will be required as fill to reclaim up to +1.4 m MSL. The study also revealed that the required fill material can be obtained by dredging the current harbour basin. Three zones have been distinguished within the harbour basin which can be used to obtain the dredge material. When combined, the three zones have enough fill material to reclaim the proposed area in the lagoon. 4. Sedimentation resulting from dredging and reclamation was identified to be the main environmental impact arising from the project. However, due to the existing quay wall on the southern side of the reclamation area which would act as a sediment barrier, distance of house reef from reclamation area, its depth, and hydrographical conditions observed at the site and based on expert opinion from MWSRP, sedimentation resulting from the proposed project is not envisaged to have any negative impacts on marine protected area located in A Dh. Atoll. It is recommended to install bunds as specified in the report to enclose area before reclamation further mitigate sediment transportation. 5. The report also assessed alternative materials, methods and locations. The comparison of alternative reclamation areas through comparative option analysis of three locations (East, South and West) suggested that the proposed location was most feasible. It was close to the populated areas of the island where infrastructure for electricity exists and the groyne installed at the site would act as a sediment barrier that would mitigate sediment transportation. 6. No irreversible major negative impacts to the environment have been identified due to the proposed project. Impact assessments done for the construction phase (reclamation) and operational phase of the project resulted in minor/moderate temporary negative impacts. Appropriate and practical mitigation measures have been identified and included in this report to address these negative impacts. These include monitoring water quality at set locations to assess extent of sedimentation. Constructing sand bunds surrounding the reclamation area to contain sedimentation due to reclamation. Significant positive impacts were identified for the implementation phase of the project. The project is expected to significantly contribute to social and developmental aspect of the island. Most importantly create land space for recreational activities of the island. 7. The Proponent of the project, Fenfushi Island Council guarantees their commitment to undertake the necessary mitigation measures and monitoring during all stages of the project that has been proposed in the report. The project complies to national development polices of the government and is planned to be executed in compliance with the relevant laws and regulations of the Maldives relevant to conservation of the environment if implemented in accordance with the report. 8. In conclusion, the EIA has looked into the key factors that shall be taken into account during construction and operational stage of the project. Even though this project does have significant environmental impacts to the immediate marine environment, with appropriate measures, minor negative impacts envisaged can be further mitigated. Given that the Proponent has committed to the mitigation actions it is anticipated that the project can be implemented with minimum negative residual environmental and socio-economic impacts.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for the construction of a harbour quaywall at Maduvvari, Meemu Atoll
(2015-01) Maldives Energy and Environmental Company
This document is prepared to meet the necessary requirements to get clearance from the Environmental Protection Agency in order to carry out the proposed harbor quaywall reconstruction project at Meemu atoll Maduvvari. It has been prepared in compliance with the EIA regulation of 2007, under the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act (Act No. 4/93). The islands existing harbor had been badly damaged by the 2004 Tsunami, rendering it unsafe and unsuitable. A breakwater had not been initially developed, and the rough monsoon waves made the existing quaywall unguarded against the elements of nature. The proposed development will reconstruct a new quaywall and will greatly improve the socio economic conditions of the island by providing a safer harbor with easier access. This Executive Summary highlights the key findings of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for this project, which is proposed by the Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure and executed by the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC). The proposed development comprises of the following key elements: ‐ Removal of the existing quaywall and reconstruction of a new quay wall of the same length, using T‐block elements. ‐ Construction of a pavement alongside the length of the new quaywall. ‐ Carrying out maintenance dredging of the basin to a depth of 3m below sea level. ‐ Reclaiming land at the northern side of the island using the demolished quaywall ‐ Using the dredged material (approximated at 550 m3) to level the road on the northern side of the island. Justification and Socioeconomic Considerations This project, instead of the alternatives, is best suited and the most feasible design solution, offering benefits in terms of the proposed location, environment, project activities, and future land developments of the island. The proponent considers that the views of major stakeholders and the community are important in the planning and design of the project. Public consultation has been conducted throughout the planning stages. The Maduvvari community supports the development of the project and their views have been considered in the planning and design process. Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures The potential impacts will be minor and localized, with the impacts identified as being caused by the following main project activities. ‐ Impacts due to maintenance dredging ‐ Impacts due to reclamation of land on the northern side of the island ‐ Impacts due to leveling of roads on the northern side of the island The impacts are however, found to be temporary and weighs less than the benefits of the socio‐economic impacts caused by the development. The major negative impacts are listed as follows: ‐ Noise pollution potential source of noise pollution will arise during the construction phase of the project, with the usage of heavy machinery and equipment ‐ Unavoidable sedimentation caused by dredging works, which will increase the turbidity of the surrounding waters and adversely impact the marine organisms. Sedimentation of silt on the reef flat will be caused by excavation. ‐ Changes in the hydrodynamics of the island which could potentially affect the issue of coastal erosion of the island. Nevertheless, there are greater socioeconomic benefits. These include facilitating easier access to the harbor for the vessels, and minimizing of floods during high tide. Mitigation measures have been proposed for all the potential adverse impacts arising from the project activities. They include, among others: ‐ Carrying out the excavation during high tides to allow maximum flushing of the sediments. ‐ Reclaiming during low tides to minimize erosion of the dredged material. ‐ Reducing problems arising during construction by making the necessary announcements and posting the related sign boards. ‐ Limiting the construction hours to day time and avoiding simultaneous operation of the equipment. And environmental monitoring and management plan will be implemented during the project activities, to assess the effectiveness of the mitigation measures and compliance with the criteria. Alternate locations and technology The proposed location where the dredged material would be used is the best location as it is the most needed location to be reclaimed for future plans of the island. Alternative technology are not recommended either due to expensive process or the available technology not suitable to the environmental conditions. Conclusion This EIA report has identified and evaluated the potential environmental impacts of the project, in accordance with the rules and regulations. Overall, the report concludes that the project would be environmentally acceptable and in compliance with the environmental legislation and standards. The implementation of the mitigation measures during construction and operation stages will minimize potential negative impacts. This will be examined by a suitable monitoring and management plan.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for the construction of island waste management centers at HA. Maarandhoo, SH. Kaditheem, SH.Feydhoo and SH. Lhaimagu
(2017-07) މޯލްޑިވުސް އެނާޖީރ އެންޑް އެންވައިރުމެންޓަލް ކޮންޕެނީ; Maldives Energy and Environmental Company
This Report highlights the results of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) carried out for the Development of Island Waste Management Centre (IWMC) and associated access road in Ha.Maarandhoo, Sh.Kanditheem, Sh.Feydhoo and Sh.Lhaimagu proposed by the Ministry of Environment and Energy (MEE). Development of IWMC is a component of a nationwide two tier waste management concept formulated by MEE to address the challenging waste management issue of the Maldives. The proposed two tier waste management system involves Island Level Waste Management (ILWM) and Regional Level Waste Management (RLWM). ILWM involves: 1. Sorting waste; 2. reducing volume of waste; 3. temporarily storing waste; and 4. composting 20-30% of organic waste at the IWMC. RLWM Involves, routine transport of waste from the IWMC’s of specified zones and managing the waste at the Regional Centre by 1. Sorting waste; 2. Incinerating waste; 3. landfilling rejects; and 4. composting up to 70-80% of the organic waste incoming from allocated zones. The nationwide waste management plan will be implemented according to the Saafu Raajje Waste Management Policy, which forms the basis of waste management framework and lays out the implementation strategy of the waste management plan. The goals of the nationwide waste management plan and policy are to: •Protect the environment and ensure health and wellbeing; •prevent pollution of natural environment and safeguard natural resources; and •promote best practices of waste management and utilise waste as a value addition. The project has been developed in line with these goals. The major components of the project include: 1. Land clearance (IWMC plot area and access road); 2. construction of IWMC; 3. equipping IWMC with relevant waste management machines; 4. operation of IWMC according to approved waste management plan and waste management framework; and 5. monitoring and adaptation of waste management plan/policy. Components one and four of the project will be undertaken by the respective island council. The councils shall prepare island level waste management plans in line with the waste management EIA for the construction of IWMC at Ha.Maarandhoo, Sh.Kanditheem, Sh.Feydhoo and Sh.Lhaimagu MEECO | xx policy and waste management regulation implemented by EPA. Components two, three and five will be undertaken by MEE. Since the proposed project in the above mentioned islands involve significant land clearance preparation of an EIA was commissioned by the EPA after screening the proposed project. The EIA Regulation 2012/R-27 of the Maldives states that projects carried out in the Maldives which require significant land clearance and removal of coconut palm trees (under Annex 4 bullets 8 of EIA 2012/R-27) will have to undertake an Environmental Impact Assessment prior to its construction and operation. Hence the EIA report is primarily aimed at capturing and presenting information needed to meet the legal requirements of both Environmental Protection and Preservation Act (4/93) and the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations of the Maldives. Major findings of this report are based on as much information as possible that could be gathered within the study time constraints, including field inspection of both the existing environment assessments and the features and possible effects of the planned activities. The assessment also included reviewing of virtually the same types of works and methods that will be used at project islands and review of actual effects arising from their construction and operation in very similar island environments. Stakeholder consultations undertaken with the island councils and public was used when assessing the existing waste management situation of the island and alternatives of the project. The following observations and findings were made for the project islands based on field surveys and data analysis: Ha.Maarandhoo – The island did not have a proper waste management system. Existing waste management practices have led to the pollution of island. The proposed IWMC plot is located on the eastern side of the island and consists of a coconut grove. There is no access road to the proposed area hence a significant part of the coconut grove will have to be cleared. Total number of trees cleared to prepare the site was determined to be 127. Nearest public areas to the site are residential houses. There were no environmentally sensitive or protected sites close to the proposed area are located at the distance recommended by EPA. Alternative site analysis showed that the alternative location at the northern side of the island was more preferred compared to the proposed area based on evaluation of impacts arising from site location (See Section 8.2.1 for details). Sh.Kanditheem – The island did not have a proper waste management system. Existing waste management practices have led to the pollution of island. The proposed IWMC plot is located on the northeastern side of the island and consists of mixed vegetation dominated by privately owned palm trees. There is no access road to the proposed area hence a significant area of vegetation will have to be cleared. Total number of trees cleared to prepare the site was determined to be 161 Nearest public areas to the site are residential lands located at the distance recommended by EPA. There were no environmentally sensitive or protected sites that will be directly affected by the project. However, a significant Bruguiera cylindrica forest was located west of the IWMC site (See Section 5.6.5 B)for details). Alternative site analysis showed that the proposed location scored the highest (See Section 8.2.2 for details). Sh.Feydhoo – The island did not have a proper waste management system. Existing waste management practices have led to the pollution of island. The proposed IWMC plot (750m2) is located on the southwestern side of the island and consists of mixed vegetation dominated by privately owned palm There is no access road to the proposed area hence a significant area of vegetation will have to be cleared. Total number of trees cleared to prepare the site was determined to be 137. Nearest public areas to the site are residential lands which are located at the distance recommended by EPA. The proposed area has an altered small patch of wetland that is being disintegrated which will have a direct impact during construction phase (See Section 5.6.5 A for details). Alternative site analysis showed that the proposed location scored the highest (See Section 8.2.1 for details). Sh.Lhaimagu – The island did not have a proper waste management system. Existing waste management practices have led to the pollution of island. The proposed IWMC plot (700m2) is located on the southern side of the island and consists of privately owned palm trees. There is no access road to the proposed area hence a significant area of vegetation will have to be cleared. Total number of trees cleared to prepare the site was determined to be 219. Nearest public areas to the site is the public school which is located at the distance recommended by EPA. The proposed area does not have environmental sensitive or protected area. Alternative site analysis showed that the proposed location scored the highest (See Section 8.2.4 for details). The study has identified a number of potential adverse effects arising out of the project. The study also notes that it is during the developmental phase of the project that will have the most significant impacts as opposed to the operational phase of the project. There are factors which could cumulate into major negative impacts during the operational phase unless proper mitigation and management is not implemented. The assessment has not identified any negative effects of national or regional importance and will not result in the loss of nationally endangered or globally endangered species as a result of the project. The assessment identified the following activities of the project to have impacts on the environmental receptors (See section 8 for details). Construction phase: 1. Settlement of workers: evaluated to be a minor impact activity; 2. Site demarcation and fencing: evaluated to be a minor impact activity; 3. Material storage: evaluated to be a minor impact activity; 4. Land clearance: evaluated to be a major impact activity; 5. IWMC construction: evaluated to be a moderate impact activity; 6. Transportation of trees, waste etc: evaluated to be a moderate impact activity; 7. Waste generation: evaluated to be a moderate impact activity; and 8. Resource consumption (Waster, Electricity and Sewerage): evaluated to be a minor impact activity. Operational phase: 1. Waste collection and transportation: A major activity of IWM. Apart from Ha.Maarandhoo the other islands do not have a local waste management plan; 2. Waste sorting, separating and compost making: The biggest component of IWM. If carried out as per the waste management concept plan, this activity would result in the most positive impacts. However, based on fair assessment of the existing condition, this activity was observed to have the highest potential for failure which would result in major negative impacts; 3. Waste generation: considered a minor impact activity; 4. Resource consumption (water/electricity): considered a minor impact activity; The direct footprint area in all the islands is localized only on land and much of the roads are concentrated in the area where introduced coconut grove is found. Within this area, the biodiversity richness was observed low since much of the area has been utilized for monoculture of coconut palms. Flora and fauna enclosed within the direct impact boundary will be effected by construction activities. Nesting areas for birds and other fauna will be effected. Habitat fragmentation and permanent change to the existing island ecosystem will occur as a result. Removal of vegetation will also affect the net carbon balance as vegetation act as a carbon sink. Noise generated from these activities are also envisaged to have a direct impact on the biodiversity. Significant volumes of yard waste will be produced during the site clearance works. The island has no waste management system and therefore additional waste created if left on the island will have multiple direct and indirect impacts on the island. During the, operational phase of the project management of waste at the IWMC is considered to have numerous impacts which include emission of GHG, smell/odor impacts and health impacts. These arise from compost pile, sorting activities and volume reduction activities. There is a high risk of accidents and injuries during the operational phase of the IWMC. Due to the volume of incoming organic waste the risk of running out of storage capacity is imminent during the operational phase of the IWMC if not managed properly. This would lead to significant cumulative negative impacts, as a result of burning waste at the IWMC. Continued burning of waste could potentially convert the IWMC into a dumpsite resulting in loss of investment. It would also impede the progress of the waste management framework of the country. However, if the waste management plan is implemented accordingly the overall impact of IWMC during the operational phase will be positive. It would create job opportunities and new markets which would develop the local economies. As a practical and a reasonable mitigation measure to minimize the impacts arising from removal of large number of trees, translocating and replanting trees have been proposed (see Section 8.5 for details). Trees specially coconut palm trees which make up 85-90% of vegetation at project sites, shall be encouraged to be translocated to another island. Due to numerous challenges faced by the island councils to undertake land clearance and translocation of trees, the report proposes to procure parties interested in buying and relocating surveyed trees (See Section 8.5.2 A for details). Procurement announcement shall be advertised as widely as possible. Evaluation shall be undertaken as described in the report. Except when all options to relocate trees have been exhausted only the decision to cutting down of a tree for timber or any other use shall be considered. Hence it is strongly recommended to give the highest priority to transplanting trees as an impact mitigation measure. The volume of waste that is expected from land clearance is closely linked to the number of trees that can be salvaged from those that get uprooted. Without a robust tree translocation plan it is believed over 163 tons of yard waste will be generated from all the islands. This would require costly long distance transportation from project islands to Thilafushi. With the proposed mitigation measures combined with burning of dried yard waste requiring transportation could be significantly reduced. During the operational phase best practices in compost management, together with strict health safety guidelines, emergency planning and implementation of monitoring/management program have been recommended to mitigate noise/odour impacts, avoid injuries and reduce carbon footprint. In order to address the issue of organic waste accumulation at the site, the assessment proposes to install 660 L waste bins at the IWMC. Based on size of the IWMC at the project islands, a maximum of 1-2 week of organic waste can be stored at the project islands using such bins (See Section 2.3.2 for details). Hence it is recommended to schedule waste collection trips more frequently for islands that have a larger population. Due to the project being located in inhabited islands, negative social impacts arising as a direct consequence of the Project have been found to be moderate. Major activities of the project having a direct impact on local stakeholders include land clearance which involve removal of privately owned trees. Cumulative negative impacts have been envisaged during operational phase due to poor management of the IWMC which can result in smell/odour impacts to nearby public areas. Hence the monitoring plan of the project is designed to address the constructional and operational phase impacts by identifying assessable indicators and assigning relevant stakeholders to prepare and assess the outcome of these indicators. The management plan of the IWMC is designed based on adaptability from feedback provided by different levels of management. This is to ensure that cumulative negative impacts do not exceed to a level that could disrupt the proposed waste management system (See Section 10 for details of monitoring and management plan). On the basis that mitigation measured proposed in this EIA report will be implemented by proponent and the robust environmental monitoring plan suggested in the report will be fully taken into consideration and the recommendations set forth in the report will be duly considered, it is concluded that the benefits of the planned Island Level Waste Management when implemented will substantially outweigh its imposition on the environment.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for the construction of island waste management centers at HA. Uligamu
(2017-08) މޯލްޑިވުސް އެނާޖީރ އެންޑް އެންވައިރުމެންޓަލް ކޮންޕެނީ; Maldives Energy and Environmental Company
This Report highlights the results of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) carried out for the Development of Island Waste Management Centre (IWMC) and associated access road in Ha. Uligam proposed by the Ministry of Environment and Energy (MEE). Development of IWMC is a component of a nationwide two tier waste management concept formulated by MEE to address the challenging waste management issue of the Maldives. The proposed two tier waste management system involves Island Level Waste Management (ILWM) and Regional Level Waste Management (RLWM). ILWM involves: 1. Sorting waste; 2. reducing volume of waste; 3. temporarily storing waste; and 4. composting 20-30% of organic waste at the IWMC. RLWM Involves, routine transport of waste from the IWMC’s of specified zones and managing the waste at the Regional Centre by 1. Sorting waste; 2. Incinerating waste; 3. landfilling rejects; and 4. composting up to 70-80% of the organic waste incoming from allocated zones. The nationwide waste management plan will be implemented according to the Saafu Raajje Waste Management Policy, which forms the basis of waste management framework and lays out the implementation strategy of the waste management plan. The goals of the nationwide waste management plan and policy are to: •Protect the environment and ensure health and wellbeing; •prevent pollution of natural environment and safeguard natural resources; and •promote best practices of waste management and utilise waste as a value addition. The project has been developed in line with these goals. The major components of the project include: 1. Land clearance (IWMC plot area and access road); 2. construction of IWMC; 3. equipping IWMC with relevant waste management machines; 4. operation of IWMC according to approved waste management plan and waste management framework; and 5. monitoring and adaptation of waste management plan/policy. Components one and four of the project will be undertaken by the respective island council. The councils shall prepare island level waste management plans in line with the waste management policy and waste management regulation implemented by EPA. Components two, three and five will be undertaken by MEE. Since the proposed project in the above mentioned island involve significant land clearance preparation of an EIA was commissioned by the EPA after screening the proposed project. The EIA Regulation 2012/R-27 of the Maldives states that projects carried out in the Maldives which require significant land clearance and removal of coconut palm trees (under Annex 4 bullets 8 of EIA 2012/R-27) will have to undertake an Environmental Impact Assessment prior to its construction and operation. Hence the EIA report is primarily aimed at capturing and presenting information needed to meet the legal requirements of both Environmental Protection and Preservation Act (4/93) and the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations of the Maldives. Major findings of this report are based on as much information as possible that could be gathered within the study time constraints, including field inspection of both the existing environment assessments and the features and possible effects of the planned activities. The assessment also included reviewing of virtually the same types of works and methods that will be used at project island and review of actual effects arising from their construction and operation in very similar island environments. Stakeholder consultations undertaken with the island councils and public was used when assessing the existing waste management situation of the island and alternatives of the project. The following observations and findings were made for the project island based on field surveys and data analysis: Ha.Uligam – The island did not have a proper waste management system. Existing waste management practices have led to the pollution of island. The proposed IWMC plot is located on the northern side of the island and consists weeds shrubs and small bush type trees. The area did not have coconut palms or significantly large tress. There is an access road to the proposed area, however a minor road shall be cleared to access the IWMC. There are nor large trees which will have to be removed at the proposed site. Nearest public areas to the site are the football field and public school. There were no environmentally sensitive or protected sites close to the proposed area. All residential, public and environmental sites are located at the distance recommended by EPA. Alternative site analysis showed that the alternative location at the southern side of the island was more preferred compared to the proposed area based on evaluation of impacts arising from site location. The study has identified a number of potential adverse effects arising out of the project. The study also notes that the developmental phase and operational phase of the project will have equally significant impacts. There are factors which could cumulate into major negative impacts during the operational phase unless proper mitigation and management is not implemented. The assessment has not identified any negative effects of national or regional importance and will not result in the loss of nationally endangered or globally endangered species as a result of the project. The assessment identified the following activities of the project to have impacts on the environmental receptors. Construction phase: 1. Settlement of workers: evaluated to be a minor impact activity; 2. Site demarcation and fencing: evaluated to be a minor impact activity; 3. Material storage: evaluated to be a minor impact activity; 4. Land clearance: evaluated to be a major impact activity; EIA for the construction of IWMC at Ha.Uligam MEECO | xix 5. IWMC construction: evaluated to be a moderate impact activity; 6. Transportation of trees, waste etc: evaluated to be a moderate impact activity; 7. Waste generation: evaluated to be a moderate impact activity; and 8. Resource consumption (Waster, Electricity and Sewerage): evaluated to be a minor impact activity. Operational phase: 1. Waste collection and transportation: A major activity of IWM. Ha.Uligam has a draft waste management plan prepared which has yet to be approved 2. Waste sorting, separating and compost making: The biggest component of IWM. If carried out as per the waste management concept plan, this activity would result in the most positive impacts. However, based on fair assessment of the existing condition, this activity was observed to have the highest potential for failure which would result in major negative impacts; 3. Waste generation: considered a minor impact activity; 4. Resource consumption (water/electricity): considered a minor impact activity; The direct footprint area in Uligam is localized only on land Within this area, the biodiversity richness was observed low since much of the area has been utilized for the wind turbine project. Flora and fauna enclosed within the direct impact boundary will be effected by construction activities. Nesting areas for birds and other fauna will be effected. Habitat fragmentation and permanent change to the existing island ecosystem will occur as a result. Removal of vegetation will also affect the net carbon balance as vegetation act as a carbon sink. Noise generated from these activities are also envisaged to have a direct impact on the biodiversity. Significant volumes of yard waste will be produced during the site clearance works. The island has no waste management system and therefore additional waste created if left on the island will have multiple direct and indirect impacts on the island. During the, operational phase of the project management of waste at the IWMC is considered to have numerous impacts which include emission of GHG, smell/odor impacts and health impacts. These arise from compost pile, sorting activities and volume reduction activities. There is a high risk of accidents and injuries during the operational phase of the IWMC. Due to the volume of incoming organic waste the risk of running out of storage capacity is imminent during the operational phase of the IWMC if not managed properly. This would lead to significant cumulative negative impacts, as a result of burning waste at the IWMC. Continued burning of waste could potentially convert the IWMC into a dumpsite resulting in loss of investment. It would also impede the progress of the waste management framework of the country. However, if the waste management plan is implemented accordingly the overall impact of IWMC during the operational phase will be positive. It would create job opportunities and new markets which would develop the local economies. As a practical and a reasonable mitigation measure to minimize the impacts arising from removal of vegetation, translocating and replanting trees have been proposed (see Section 8.5 for details). Trees at project site, shall be encouraged to be translocated within the island or to other islands. Due to numerous challenges faced by the island council to undertake land clearance and translocation of trees, the report also proposes to procure parties interested in buying and relocating trees (See Section 8.5.2 A for details). Procurement announcement shall be advertised as widely as possible. Evaluation shall be undertaken as described in the report. Except when all options to relocate treeshave been exhausted only the decision to cutting down of a tree for timber or any other use shall be considered. Hence it is strongly recommended to give the highest priority to transplanting trees as an impact mitigation measure. The volume of waste that is expected from land clearance is closely linked to the number of trees that can be salvaged from those that get uprooted. Without a robust tree translocation plan it is believed that up to 5-10 tons of waste will be generated from the island. This would require costly long distance transportation from project island to Thilafushi. With the proposed mitigation measures combined with burning of dried yard waste, waste requiring transportation could be significantly reduced. During the operational phase best practices in compost management, together with strict health/ safety guidelines, emergency planning and implementation of monitoring/management program have been recommended to mitigate noise/odour impacts, avoid injuries and reduce carbon footprint. In order to address the issue of organic waste accumulation at the site, the assessment proposes to install 660 L waste bins at the IWMC. Based on size and population of the IWMC at the project island, a maximum of 1-2 week of organic waste can be stored at the project island using such bins (See Section 2.3.2 for details). Hence it is recommended to schedule waste collection trips more frequently for islands based on population size. Due to the project being located in an inhabited island, negative social impacts arising as a direct consequence of the Project during construction phase have been found to be minor. The project does not involve removal of privately owned palm trees from coconut groves. Cumulative negative impacts have been envisaged during operational phase due to poor management of the IWMC which can result in smell/odour impacts to nearby public areas. Hence the monitoring plan of the project is designed to address the constructional and operational phase impacts by identifying assessable indicators and assigning relevant stakeholders to prepare and assess the outcome of these indicators. The management plan of the IWMC is designed based on adaptability from feedback provided by different levels of management. This is to ensure that cumulative negative impacts do not exceed to a level that could disrupt the proposed waste management system. On the basis that mitigation measures proposed in this EIA report will be implemented by proponent and the robust environmental monitoring plan suggested in the report will be fully taken into consideration and the recommendations set forth in the report will be duly considered, it is concluded that the benefits of the planned Island Level Waste Management when implemented will substantially outweigh its imposition on the environment.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for the proposed dredging of harbor and entrance channel at Gdh. Fiyoari
(2016-01) Maldives Energy and Environmental Company
1. This report provides the finding of an environmental impact assessment conducted for a dredging project in G DH.Fiyoari, devised by Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure (MHI) in accordance with the Environmental Act and EIA Regulations 2012. The report was compiled by Maldives Environment and Energy Company (MEECO) to fulfil the requirements of law. The main objective of the project is to ease accessibility to the island. 2. In recent times, the harbour in Fiyoari, has become one of the biggest contributors to the local economy. An ice plant managed and run by Kooddoo Fisheries provides ice and water to fishing vessels that regularly birth at Fiyoari. The harbour is also frequented by safari vessels enroute to the surfing point located at the western coast of Fiyoari. The demand for the harbour has resulted in the harbour becoming congested and shallow areas ‘giri’ that exist within the basin has made navigation and access difficult. 3. The proposed project encompasses dredging shallow areas from the harbour and entrance channel. The dredging is aimed at removing all the shallow areas in an area of 25,699 m2 from the harbour basin and 5,350 m2 from the entrance channel. Surveys concluded that a total of 11,800 m3 of dredge material would be obtained as a result of dredging these areas to – 3 m MSL. 4. Bathymetry surveys showed that two areas were shallower than – 3 m MSL in the proposed project area. They were a 2,642 m2 shallow giri in the harbour basin close to quay wall and a 1,650 m2 strip of shallow area at the southern side of the entrance channel. However, study area bathymetry and stakeholder consultations revealed that the proposed project area did not encompass all the significant shallow areas which were highlighted to cause navigational difficulties. Two main shallow areas were identified in the basin outside the project area which are shallower than – 3 m from MSL. These areas have been marked in the report. 5. Use of dredge material in the ongoing sports arena construction project at Fiyoari was determined to be the best option. 6. Environmental impacts were identified and assessed for both the construction phase (dredging) and operational phase of the project. The negative impacts of the project would be felt exclusively on the marine environment during the dredging phase of the project. No significant negative impacts have been identified due to the small scale of the project. Following careful evaluation of the minor negative impacts, appropriate and practical mitigation measures have been proposed to reduce these negative impacts. Significant positive impacts were identified for the implementation phase of the project. The project would not only address difficulty in navigation but it will also boost the economy of the island. Alternatives to the current scheme have also been provided in the report with their advantages and disadvantages discussed. 7. The Proponent, Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure is committed to undertake the necessary mitigation measures and monitoring during all stages of the project. The project is in line with the national development polices of the government and planned to be executed in compliance with the relevant laws and regulations of the Maldives pertaining to conservation of the environment. 8. In conclusion, this EIA has looked into the key factors that shall be taken into account during construction and operational stage of the project. Even though this project does have significant environmental impacts to the immediate marine environment, with appropriate measures, those negative effects can be mitigated to an acceptable level. It is also worth highlighting significant positive impacts that the project is expected to bring to the community would translate into improved living conditions and overall social well-being of the community.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for the proposed jetty construction at Fohdhoo, Noonu Atoll, Maldives
(2016-01) Maldives Energy and Environmental Company
The Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure requested the services of Maldives Energy and Environmental Company (MEECO) to provide an Environmental Impact Study (EIA) for the construction of a jetty at Fodhdhoo Island, Noonu Atoll. The assessment addresses specific key issues stated in the Terms of Reference (TOR) as agreed between EPA and the Proponent following the Scoping Meeting held on the matter. This EIA report was prepared for the fulfilment of the requirements of the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, 2012 with the purpose of conducting an assessment of possible impacts on biophysical and human environment arising from proposed development project. The project is proposed by Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure, Maldives. The proposed jetty construction project include the following components; 1.Dismantling of the existing jetty 2.Dredging of a 122m by 50m basin around the jetty 3.Construction of a concrete access deck and a cargo loading/unloading area 4.Construction of a timber deck extension for passenger transfer 5.Leveling of roads using dredge material The proposed jetty construction project at N. Fodhdhoo has been identified as an important and a justifiable project from a socio-economic perspective as well as to achieve the government’s objective of facilitating easing transport to and from the island. The existing jetty at the island is seriously damaged, presenting various operational difficulties and safety concerns to frequent jetty users. The construction of the proposed jetty at the island will greatly improve the only transportation facility at the island. This EIA has been compiled using environmental information obtained during a field visit to the island by a team of consultants. The EIA has also incorporated the views and opinions of relevant stakeholders at the island obtained through consultations. In addition, the report looks into the possible environmental, social and economic impacts that may arise from implementation of the proposed project. The Environmental impacts assessments carried out for this survey employed sound scientific methodologies and experience of the consultants. The project is expected to have some temporary and permanent negative environmental impacts and temporary socio-economic impacts during the construction phase of the project. Most of the expected adverse environmental impacts can be minimized by following the measures proposed in this EIA, except for the permanent loss of coral reef from the proposed dredge area. The temporary socio-economic impacts during the construction phase will present difficulties to the residents of the island, though some can be effectively mitigated by following the measures proposed, while all these issues are expected to be resolved once the jetty comes into operation. Overall, most of the impacts are expected to be short-lived and only significant during the construction phase of the project. On the other hand, the socio-economic factors will greatly improve during the operational phase of the jetty as a result of the improved facility. Based on the results of the assessments, this EIA study concludes that with the proposed mitigation in place, the project is justifiable, would be environmentally acceptable and could proceed in compliance with the relevant environmental legislations and regulations. In this EIA, the consultants have proposed an Environmental management plan to ensure that the construction phase of the project does not cause major unexpected impacts on the environment as well as to ensure that the proposed measures are working effectively to safeguard the environment.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for the proposed land reclamation of Guarantee Fibreglass Fabrication plot at Thilafushi
(2016-01) Maldives Energy and Environmental Company
1. This report provides the finding of an environmental impact assessment conducted for a reclamation project in K. Thilafushi, initiated by Guarantee Fibreglass Fabrications in accordance with the Environmental Act and EIA Regulations 2012. The report was compiled by Maldives Environment and Energy Company (MEECO) to fulfil the requirements of law. The main objective of the project is to ease accessibility to the company’s facility and alleviate congestion at the facility due to lack of space. 2. The marine industry, and marine transportation is a crucial sector to the national development. This sector has been rapidly expanding in recent times as local tourism had kick started in the country. With the need for better and streamlined sea transportation mechanisms to connect inhabited islands where local tourism are flourishing, Guarantee Fibreglass Fabrications has experienced an insurgence of demand. With high demand comes the need to expand the current production facility and provide better services to clients. This has become a limitation to the company as the total area (65,000 ft2) allocated and leased to the company by Thilafushi Corporation Limited was found to be inadequate to meet these needs. The eastern plot leased to the company included a very shallow water body of approximately 537 m2. Guarantee Fibreglass Fabrications, dredged this area and constructed a breakwater to develop an enclosed harbour to use it as an access point to their facility and to dock company vessels. However, with the expansion of industrial activities at Thilafushi, more plots were leased to companies which created congestion in the harbour. Issues of accessibility and inadequate space at their production facility prompted the company to construct a better accessibility facility and to reclaim the dredged harbour area to capitalise on the extra space it would create. 3. In order to solve, the issues of accessibility, congestion and unauthorised access to the harbour area, the proposed project includes reclaiming the harbour area that measures 17X30 m. The amount of fill material required for the proposed reclamation was calculated to be 1,700 m3 4. Environmental impacts were identified and assessed for both the construction phase (reclamation) and operational phase of the project. The project would result in permanent loss of a relatively small lagoon space. Reclamation would also result in sedimentation and degradation of water quality and relocation of vessels anchored at the location. Due to the small scale of the project, and that fact that the project environment has been heavily modified, with no live corals and very limited fish life, it is evident that the project would not result in loss of an ecologically important environment. Sedimentation as result of reclamation was found to be the most important environmental impact of the project. However, this will be contained as reclamation will be carried out after sheet piling the reclamation area. Significant positive impacts were identified for the implementation phase of the project. The project would not only address difficulty in accessibility but it will also aid the economic growth of the company and contribute to the wider economy of the nation. Alternative reclamation methods have also been proposed in the report with their advantages and disadvantages. 5. Baseline and acceptable thresholds have been established for monitoring any unforeseen negative effects of the project in the surrounding environment by establishing control points. Should the recommended thresholds exceed, the project shall temporarily cease, the casue of the problem shall be recognised and additional corrective measures shall be undertaken after consultation with the Project’s environmental consultant. 6. The Proponent, Guarantee Fibreglass fabrication is committed to undertake the necessary mitigation measures and monitoring during all stages of the project that has been proposed in the report. The project is in line with the national development polices of the government and planned to be executed in compliance with the relevant laws and regulations of the Maldives pertaining to conservation of the environment if implemented in accordance with the report. 7. In conclusion, the project is expected to generate economic and social benefits while as per the assessment, carrying out the project would not result in loss of environmentally sensitive or unique habitat. Since all identified negative effects of the project can be mitigated by practical measures, it is concluded that the project can proceed as planned.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for the provision of RO plant and storage tank in L. Gan, K. Gaafaru & B. Kendhoo
(2017-12) Maldives Energy and Environmental Company
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for the reconstruction of Guraidhoo harbour, Thaa Atoll, Maldives
(2016-04) Maldives Energy and Environmental Company
The Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure requested the services of Maldives Energy and Environmental Company (MEECO) to provide an Environmental Impact Study (EIA) for the re-construction of harbour at Guraidhoo Island, Thaa Atoll. The assessment addresses specific key issues stated in the Terms of Reference (TOR) as agreed between EPA and the Proponent following the Scoping Meeting held on the matter. This EIA report was prepared for the fulfilment of the requirements of the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, 2012 with the purpose of conducting an assessment of possible impacts on biophysical and human environment arising from proposed development project. The project is proposed by Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure, Maldives. The proposed harbour reconstruction project include the following components; 1. Reconstruction of improved breakwaters for harbour basin and entrance channel; 2. Reconstruction of improved main quay wall and a side quay wall; 3. Maintenance dredging of the harbour; 4. Extension of the harbour basin; 5. Reclamation of small area of land by dredge sediment disposal; 6. Construction of revetments on a 14m section for the newly reclaimed land; 7. Installation of navigational lights. The present harbour facility at the Guraidhoo Island is greatly damaged and is not serving its intended function of providing safe access to the island and safe mooring of vessels. Additionally, the size of the harbour is identified as inadequate for the present need and expected economic growth of the island. The harbour forms a key part in many livelihood activities of the island and is frequently used by passenger and cargo vessels as well as vessels travelling to and from Laamu atoll. Hence, the improvement of harbour facility will greatly benefit the island community while also enabling future economic development at the island. The proposed project is not expected to cause any long term major irreversible environmental impacts, though few temporary impacts during the construction phase is expected. These impacts can be successfully mitigated by following the measures recommended in this EIA. The construction phase of the project is also expected to present several negative socio-cultural and economic impacts, which can also be mitigated by following measures presented in this EIA. Since the successful operation of the ice plant facility present at the island, after the reconstruction of the harbour is seen as a major economic benefit to island as well as protection of the private property of the business must be ensured when implementing the proposed project, it is highly recommended that the necessary relocation of the ice plant’s pump station and the pipeline is resolved before implementing the proposed project by following the proposed mitigation measures in this report. Overall, the project is expected to yield major positive impacts in socio-cultural and economic sector when the new harbour comes into operation. Based on the results of the assessments, this EIA study concludes that with the proposed mitigation in place, the project is justifiable, would be environmentally acceptable and could proceed in compliance with the relevant environmental legislations and regulations. In this EIA, the consultants have proposed an Environmental management plan to ensure that the construction phase of the project does not cause major unexpected impacts on the environment as well as to ensure that the proposed measures are working effectively to safeguard the environment.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for the reconstruction of Guraidhoo Harbour, Thaa Atoll, Maldives
(2015-12) Maldives Energy and Environmental Company
The Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure requested the services of Maldives Energy and Environmental Company (MEECO) to provide an Environmental Impact Study (EIA) for the re-construction of harbour at Guraidhoo Island, Thaa Atoll. The assessment addresses specific key issues stated in the Terms of Reference (TOR) as agreed between EPA and the Proponent following the Scoping Meeting held on the matter. This EIA report was prepared for the fulfilment of the requirements of the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, 2012 with the purpose of conducting an assessment of possible impacts on biophysical and human environment arising from proposed development project. The project is proposed by Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure, Maldives. The proposed harbour reconstruction project include the following components; 1. Reconstruction of improved breakwaters for harbour basin and entrance channel; 2. Reconstruction of improved main quay wall and a side quay wall; 3. Maintenance dredging of the harbour; 4. Extension of the harbour basin; 5. Reclamation of small area of land by dredge sediment disposal; 6. Construction of revetments on a 14m section for the newly reclaimed land; 7. Installation of navigational lights. The present harbour facility at the Guraidhoo Island is greatly damaged and is not serving its intended function of providing safe access to the island and safe mooring of vessels. Additionally, the size of the harbour is identified as inadequate for the present need and expected economic growth of the island. The harbour forms a key part in many livelihood activities of the island and is frequently used by passenger and cargo vessels as well as vessels travelling to and from Laamu atoll. Hence, the improvement of harbour facility will greatly benefit the island community while also enabling future economic development at the island. The proposed project is not expected to cause any long term major irreversible environmental impacts, though few temporary impacts during the construction phase is expected. These impacts can be successfully mitigated by following the measures recommended in this EIA. The construction phase of the project is also expected to present several negative socio-cultural and economic impacts, which can also be mitigated by following measures presented in this EIA. Overall, the project is expected to yield major positive impacts in socio-cultural and economic sector when the new harbour comes into operation. Based on the results of the assessments, this EIA study concludes that with the proposed mitigation in place, the project is justifiable, would be environmentally acceptable and could proceed in compliance with the relevant environmental legislations and regulations. In this EIA, the consultants have proposed an Environmental management plan to ensure that the construction phase of the project does not cause major unexpected impacts on the environment as well as to ensure that the proposed measures are working effectively to safeguard the environment.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for: Hdh. Neykurendhoo channel protection and maintenance dredging project
(2015-12) Maldives Energy and Environmental Company
a) This Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report was prepared by Maldives Energy and Environmental Company (MEECO) upon request by the Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure (MHI), the project proponent to fulfil the legal requirements of the Environment Protection and Preservation Act (Law no: 4/93) for the project entitled “HDh. Neykurendhoo channel protection and maintenance dredging”. b) The assessment was prepared addressing the key issues highlighted in the Terms of Reference (TOR) agreed between the proponent and EPA. c) Neykurendhoo is an average sized island with a population of a little over 700, where basic services are available. The island has got an average sized harbour constructed in 2007 that is currently being used by boats owned locally as well as fishing and cargo vessels from other islands as a berthing location. d) MHI proposed this project to address the requirement for providing safe access to Neykurendhoo. No maintenance dredging had been carried out since the construction of the harbour in 2007. The channel is reported to have become shallower over the years as a result of siltation in the area. In addition the breakwater at the entrance of the harbour was constructed too short to provide adequate protection from wind and waves. e) The project is in line with government policies and legislation, and the proponent is committed to obtaining all the necessary permits and approvals prior to the commencement of the project. f) The project proposes to construct a 116.2 m rock boulder extension to the existing breakwater at the entrance channel, and apply excavation techniques to conduct maintenance dredging. The dredge material is proposed to be used for levelling the access road from the residential areas of the island to the harbour. The proponent commits to put in place all the measures necessary to minimise the impacts of the development on the environment. g) Assessment of the existing environment revealed that there were relatively few benthic communities to be directly affected as a result of the proposed activities. The channel has a sandy bottom characteristic of dredged locations. The only activity expected to cause damage to the benthic communities were the placement of the rock boulder extension to the breakwater. However, the coral communities in the area were in relatively sparse abundance and consisted only of small colonies. The impact on coral reefs is expected to revert back to its original state once the environment has stabilised upon completion of the project. h) The major impact to the surrounding areas would be from sedimentation during dredging, especially since for much of the year the location will experience winds and the resulting wind-generated surface currents away from the island. Adequate silt netting would minimise the impacts to the surrounding areas during construction phase. i) The proponent is fully committed to fulfilling the requirements of the monitoring plan developed, and undertake any mitigation measures necessary to minimise the negative impacts of this project j) The benefits of this project outweigh the slight negative impacts caused by the project, and is encouraged to implement the project giving due considerations to the environmental issues.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment report for coastal protection at Gn. Fuvahmulah, Maldives
(2016-11) Maldives Energy and Environmental Company
This environmental impact assessment (EIA) report highlights the findings of the EIA carried out for the proposed coastal protection of the north-eastern coast at Gn. Fuvahmulah, the Maldives. The EIA was prepared as a fulfilment of the mandatory requirement under the EIA Regulations 2012 of the Maldives and the international standards of the International Finance Corporation (IFC) to comply with the requirements of the ORIO Fund from the Netherlands and to obtain environmental clearance from the Environmental Protection Agency of the Maldives prior to the commencement of the Project. The Proponent of the project is the Ministry of Environment and Energy, Government of the Maldives. The Project cost is estimated to be between €18 – 22 million. This EIA report has been prepared in accordance with the Terms of Reference agreed between the proponent and the Maldives’ Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) following the scoping meeting held on 20 June 2016. Technical consultancy for the Project is provided by Royal HaskoningDHV from the Netherlands and the Maldives Energy and Environmental Company (MEECO) Pvt. Ltd has been sub-contracted to carry out the Environmental Impact Assessment and the related studies. Coastal erosion is one of the most serious environmental issues facing Fuvahmulah. According to the present assessment, coastline regression due to erosion has been on average 0.8m/year over the period of the past 47 years (1969 – 2016). It is believed that approximately 15 ha of land had been lost from the island due to erosion. As a result, several important buildings, facilities and palm trees have been found at the border of the eroding coastline. The project Island has an elongated shape with raised ridges at the coastal margin sloping down towards the middle where depressions with swampy areas and two freshwater lakes in the middle. The ridge forms a natural protection against flooding of the island. However, erosion is threatening the integrity of the ridge at the north-eastern side of the island. When the ridge breaches serious flooding of a large part of the island will occur affecting the livelihood of the people, freshwater bodies, agricultural produce and infrastructure on the Island. The population on the Island is highly concerned about this serious risk resulting in feelings of insecurity and limiting socio-economic development of the island. Although coastal erosion is experienced by many other islands in the Maldives, Fuvahmulah has become the priority island, because it is one of the biggest and most populated islands in the Maldives with good infrastructure, social services, wetlands, freshwater bodies and a high potential for agriculture .This is an exception for the Maldives. The Government of the Maldives has recently accorded city status to Fuvahmulah. The city status will draw further investments to the island. Fuvahmulah is considered one of the envisaged growth centre islands in the Maldives for the future. The Government of the Maldives is further investing infrastructure and development of the island through several ongoing projects, and has the intention to develop Fuvahmulah as a safe island with a concentration of population and facilities that will attract people both from smaller less populated islands as well as offer an alternative for migration to the congested capital Male’. According to current assessments the 2.6 km of northeast coastline is undergoing serious erosion, starting just north of the port and reaching till about 700 meter from Thundi Beach in the north of the Island. In severely eroding areas, beach sand has been completely lost exposing the bedrock underneath. During high tide, waves reach the island’s coastal ridge. While rubble, beach rock and coarse sand form the main composition of the material on the eroding coast, the lagoon region found along the northeast coast had very poor live coral cover. Due to the erosion the coastal vegetation belt is getting damaged, with tall coconut plants being lost to erosion. Information and data for the EIA was collected by making two field visits to the island in May 2015 and July 2016. During these visits baseline data was collected and stakeholder discussions on the project were held. In addition, all available relevant literature and comparable studies were reviewed. In order to identify the most appropriate alternative to protect the coastline, a long list of eight potential coastal protection measures was compiled. This long list was assessed against a number of criteria to select the most favourable ones. Two feasible and effective options that are believed to be most appropriate to the existing conditions of Fuvahmulah have been selected– an offshore breakwater and an onshore revetment. These two alternatives were further investigated in a quantitative multi-criteria analysis (MCA). While an offshore breakwater will reduce the erosive force of the approaching waves, therewith creating calmer conditions on the lee of the structure, the onshore revetment will protect against erosion at the shoreline itself. The effectiveness to protect against erosion is considered higher for the onshore revetment than for the offshore breakwater. The offshore breakwater has more uncertainties in the design, making it less certain that erosion will be prevented completely. In addition, the risk that Thundi Beach may be affected by additional erosion due to the coastal protection structure is considered higher for the breakwater option than for the onshore revetment. Based on these main considerations the onshore revetment was selected as the most preferred option. The onshore revetment has been designed taking into account wave characteristics and predicted sea-level rise for the Maldives. The structure will be placed seawards to limit the effect on the vegetation belt after profiling the broken ridge with a quarry run. Underneath the rock armour geotextile layer may be placed to prevent undercutting. The crest level of the structure will be +3.5m from MSL and will have a design life of 50 years. The structure will have a length of 2,650 meters and a width of 27 meters, starting at the port towards the north. A total volume of 131,979m3 of granular rock will be required. A bulk carrier would transport the materials to the island (most probably from India) while smaller bulk carriers, trucks and equipment that are commonly used for such works will be utilised for the processing and the placement of the rocks. Rocks will be unloaded and stockpiled in the outer harbour and transported to the site of placement by trucks running over the revetment itself, therewith minimising transport over the island itself. The construction is expected to take 12 months. Quality assurance during designing and constructions will ensure minimum maintenance during the design life of the structure. All environmental and socio-cultural (positive and negative) impacts expected from the Project have been identified for both the onshore revetment and the offshore breakwater. Cost effective, robust measures have been identified to mitigate against adverse impacts and to enhance the positive impacts. Highlighted below are the likely impacts and related measures for the preferred alternative – the seaward onshore rock armour revetment. The main positive impact of the project is the minimisation of the risk that the island will be flooded as a result of breach in the ridge due to coastal erosion. This limits the risk of loss of life, damage to natural and economic assets, feelings of insecurity in the population and limitations to socio-economic development and in the ultimate scenario an abandonment of the island. Protecting the island’s integrity will enhance the sustainable development of the island in economic, social and environmental terms. To coordinate and enhance integrated development of the island an integrated development plan should be prepared, implemented and monitored in close cooperation with the population and local stakeholders. Construction of 2650 m long and 27 m wide revetment would mean irreversible altering of a footprint of 71,550m2 of existing coastal environment, which is inevitable. The long term erosion of the island’s coastline has already effectively converted the footprint area into an area of low habitat value consisting mostly of rubble, beach rock and limited beach. Since the objective of the revetment is to provide protection and security to the people and the terrestrial habitat, the benefits of coastal protection far outweigh the negative impact of permanent conversion of the existing coastline. Quarrying of rock boulders changes landscape, creates noise, dust and safety risks at the location of the quarry. Hence, obtaining rocks from a certified supplier is required and the design has been optimised to limit the material requirements. Transport (both land and sea) of materials from the source country to the project site and the energy utilised by the machineries and trucks would generate emission of Green House Gases (GHGs) and other polluting gases. A total of 9,650 ton CO2 emissions will be generated by the production and transportation of the construction material and the placement of the materials as the revetment. Consequently supplying materials from the closest available source, efficient use of vehicles, equipment and bulk supply and proper maintenance of vehicles and equipment are required to limit the CO2 emissions. In addition to climate change impacts, the movement of vehicles when used on the island itself can damage unsurfaced roads, create risks of accidents, noise, vibrations, dust and risks of spills of fuel or waste on land. However, a construction method has been proposed to use the revetment itself as a transportation route to get the construction material from the port to the site of placement. Construction of the first layer of the revetment will start at the port and while working towards the north a path will be laid for the vehicles to use. The second layer of the revetment will be laid starting in the north, working backwards towards the port still driving over the revetment. In this way transportation overland can be kept to a minimum and will mainly consider staff, small supplies and supervision. Access paths for vehicles will be located in areas of low habitat value, away from sensitive receptors and public to minimise transport related impacts. An advantage of the offshore breakwater would have been the creation of a large safe swimming area at the lee side of the structure, which is not the case with the onshore revetment. This has been compensated by including steps in the design so that the water will be easily accessible and by reinforcing the current small tetrapod breakwaters with rocks and installing a safety line to enhance the current swimming areas. Works in the coastal zone create risks of damaging coastal vegetation and sites of historical and cultural importance. Therefore, fencing and/or delineation of these areas prior to construction along with carefully selected routes for vehicle movement have been proposed. In addition mature trees will not be removed unless all options have been explored. In the unlikely event of a tree removal existing regulations will be followed and implemented. Next to the vegetation, there is also a risk of damaging the geological features such as the island ridge and beach rock. It can also cause soil compaction and can affect the beach fauna. Setting up access routes and using protective boarding for vehicles and low ground pressure machinery to drive on have been proposed to mitigate these effects. Generation of construction waste, waste oil and other hazardous wastes, fuel spills have a potential to pollute the environment, as well on land as in the sea. Hazardous and non-hazardous waste generated by the Project shall not be allowed to be discarded on the island since Fuvahmulah lacks a waste management system. It is proposed to designate an area for waste collection for subsequent disposal at Thilafushi landfill site. Hazardous or potentially polluting materials such as fuel, oil, batteries, chemicals etc. will have to be stored on an impervious base (concrete pavement) away from water and properly bunded and kept locked when unattended. In addition, storage of fuel, equipment and construction materials have also been proposed to be properly stockpiled so as to minimise the risk of soil or sediment contamination or water pollution and to avoid material wastage. Vessel and barge movements shall be coordinated by the authorities to limit the risks of grounding or collisions, which can potentially cause spills or other hazardous substances. An emergency plan that shall be submitted by the contactor will further ensure that procedures to prevent or mitigate impacts due to accidents or spillages are in place and operate effectively during the Project implementation. The risk of moving the erosion problem to north with the risk of affecting Thundi area is an uncertain element in the current assessment. This is mainly due to lack of long-term data on longshore currents and sediment transport regime around the coast. However the expert opinion is that the risk of Thundi beach erosion is low and is considerable lower in the case of the onshore revetment compared to the offshore breakwater structure. Due to the uncertainties involved it is required to implement a detailed monitoring program to evaluate changes of Thundi area following the construction of the structure. The visual impact of the revetment viewed from the beach may not be appealing to some people and may be considered an eyesore. In designing the structure measures that can minimise the visual impacts have been considered. The rock armour revetment can also cause difficulties to access the beach and the sea for the people. Hence for convenience of the people steps have been incorporated into the design. The magnitude and importance of all impacts has been evaluated and their significance assessed in the EIA report with necessary mitigation measures so that the residual impacts are well within accepted limits. With the mitigation measures in place, no activity planned under the project is expected to result in residual impacts that are of concern to the environment or to the people. This assessment confirms that the project will adhere to the relevant existing laws and regulations and is in accordance with government policies and development plans. The EIA revealed that the project will not result in loss of critical habitat or species or degradation of a habitat that has high ecological value nor does it involve forced re-settlement of inhabitants, loss of historical or cultural heritage and intervention into regular way of life of the people and that the predicted impacts are expected to be mitigated and residual impacts could be kept within generally acceptable levels. It has also been determined that the Project is being undertaken in state-owned land with no encroachment into private land involved. Based on the findings, the EIA concludes that the project should be allowed to proceed with the proposed mitigation and enhancement measures during the construction and operational phases of the Project as the benefits of the Project far outweigh its imposition on the environment or the people.
Technical Report
Environmental management plan for the establishment of island waste management center in HA. Muraidhoo, HA. Thakandhoo, HA. Molhadhoo, HDH. Finey, HDH. Hirimaradhoo, HDH, Kurinbi and HDH. Vaikaradhoo
(2017-08) މޯލްޑިވުސް އެނާޖީރ އެންޑް އެންވައިރުމެންޓަލް ކޮންޕެނީ; Maldives Energy and Environmental Company
1. The Ministry of Environment and Energy has proposed a project to establish an Island Waste Management Centre (IWMC) in nineteen (19) islands of Zone One (Haa Alif, Haa Dhaal and Shaviyani) in order to manage waste generated, on an island level. This project is funded by the OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID) under the “Provision of Water Supply, Sanitation and Solid Waste Management Project”. The proponent has requested consultancy services of MEECO for the preparation of an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) for the proposed project. Of the nineteen (19) islands. Maldives Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) screening process resulted in 14 islands being classified as requiring an EMP. This EMP includes 7 of the 14 islands, namely HA.Muraidhoo, HA. Molhadhoo, HA. Thakandhoo, HDH. Hirimaradhoo, HDH. Finey, HDH. Kurinbi and HDH. Vaikaradhoo. 2. Current state of waste management in the project islands are as follows: HA. Muraidhoo There is currently no waste management system in place in HA. Muraidhoo. No area has been demarcated or established to dispose of waste. Therefore, residents have been dumping waste at the periphery of the residential zones. These waste include plastic, organic waste, metals, and glass. Kitchen waste is thrown on the beach areas around the island. Along with the kitchen waste, metal cans and glassware are also dumped on the beaches. Nappies have been buried at the western beach of the island. The Island Council of Muraidhoo has developed a Waste Management Plan (WMP) in 2017 for the subsequent 5 years. The WMP has not been approved by the EPA as of date. HA. Thakandhoo There is currently no waste management system in place in HA. Thakandhoo. In 2014, the Island Council cleared two areas on both the northern and southern end of the island to be used as dumpsites. While there was cooperation within some residents of the island, the two areas established for waste dumping are unused as of today. This was mainly due to the lack of a budget and waste management equipment, in addition to a lack of cooperation from the residents. Therefore, residents have been disposing waste at the periphery of the residential zones. HA. Thakandhoo Island Council has formulated a Waste Management Plan (WMP) in 2017 for the next five years. The WMP has been approved by the EPA. HA. Molhadhoo Waste is currently dumped at one specified plot of land located 250m to the east of the islands residential zones. This plot is located 160m to the west islands wetlands. There is currently no waste management system with the lack of a waste collection service or staff at the dumpsite to handle waste sorting and disposal. Locals transport their waste to the designated area themselves, mostly in wheel barrows. The area demarcated for dumping waste is managed by the Council. Waste is sorted at the dumpsite as locals follow the Council’s guidelines while dumping waste, with metal and construction waste, yard waste and sanitary waste dumped separately. Organic kitchen waste is regularly dumped to the sea with no specific areas allocated for this purpose. Sanitary wastes are buried and covered with sand in a ditch at the existing dumpsite, when the ditch is full the waste inside is burned and covered with sand reducing the volume of waste in the plot so that it can be used again. The island does not have an established Waste Management Plan (WMP) as of yet. During field visit, the Council highlighted that the WMP is in the drafting stage HDH. Finey An area has been cleared in HDh. Finey to dump the waste. The area is currently next to the proposed IWMC site, with part of the footprint overlapping. The dump site is not fenced off. It was observed on the field visit that there was an attempt to separate waste types using sign boards. According to the Island Council, this was attempted during 2016. Although the separation has been attempted, it was noticed that due to lack of any waste management equipment or machinery, the stockpiles quickly became difficult to manage due to the sheer volume. Putrescible wastes such as kitchen wastes are not dumped in this area, and as is the norm in majority of the islands without a waste management system, they are dumped at certain beach areas. Even though a dumpsite has been allocated by the Council, biodegradable wastes such as green wastes are still burnt in some areas of the island. HDh. Finey currently has no Waste Management Plan formulated as of the date of visit. HDH. Hirimaradhoo No area has been demarcated or established to dispose of waste. Waste has been dumped in places such as the area south of the football ground, and a considerable amount of tree trunks have been dumped at the periphery of the south-eastern beach area. Kitchen waste is thrown on the beach areas around the island. Along with the kitchen waste, metal cans and glassware are also dumped on the beaches. The Island Council has formulated a Waste Management Plan (WMP) in 2017 for the next five years, although it has not been approved by the EPA as of date. HDH. Kurinbi The island currently has an Island Waste Management Center (IWMC), which was established during 2013. Although the infrastructure is present, the island currently has no equipment or machinery to manage the waste generated within the island. Waste such as plastics and metals cannot be reduced in volume, therefore the unmanaged waste is stockpiled inside the IWMC. Other types of (biodegradable) waste is burnt regularly near the IWMC. Waste is burnt every week except on Saturdays and Sundays. The residue from the burning is then taken and disposed of near the beach. Nappies are burnt in an enclosed container along with dry wastes. Composting was attempted previously, and the IWMC workers report that 6 bags (25 kg each) of compost was produced in 4 months. HDH Kurinbi Island Council formulated a Waste Management Plan on 23 November 2015. The WMP was not approved by EPA at the time of visit HDH. Vaikaradhoo Vaikaradhoo Council has set guidelines for disposal of waste, and waste disposal is done on a set schedule on allocated days. It was noted that a minority do not follow these guidelines. Waste is dumped at a demarcated dumpsite, but there are no facilities within it, therefore the island faces difficulty in burning and reduction of waste. Kitchen waste is dumped at the coastal area. The current dumpsite was constructed under a UNDP project by Vaikaradhoo Il’haaru Jamiyya. The waste brought to the dumpsite is currently separated and stockpiled inside the dump site. The Island Council has allocated staff to conduct the separation, stockpiling and burning of waste in the dumpsite. Currently, there is no mechanism set up to transport unmanaged waste from the island. HDH. Vaikaradhoo has formulated a Waste Management Plan (WMP) on 29 November 2016 for a period of 5 years. The WMP was not approved by EPA at the time of visit. 3. The project locations and site conditions for the islands are as follows: HA. Muraidhoo The proposed site for the construction of IWMC is located in the southern region of Muraidhoo. The site has been largely cleared of vegetation except for a few shrubs and young beach hibiscus shoots, and is accessible by the main road “Nala Magu” stretching from the harbour area towards the southern end of the island. The site is 26 m south of the recreational area of Muraidhoo, while the nearest coastal vegetation is at distance of 31 m from the site. The nearest residential area of the island is 215 m away from the site. HA. Thakandhoo The project site is located north of the residential area at 6°50'46.96"N, 72°59'42.17"E. An unpaved access path is present which connects to the residential areas from the western side. The project footprint falls on an area which includes 7 mature palm trees in addition to young vegetation including approximately 15 young palm trees and 2 juvenile palms. In addition to these, the site also contains sea lettuce and padanus shrubs. The site is 49 m from the closest coastal vegetation belt, and 73 m from the nearest residential area, which fits into the buffer zone recommended by the EPA. However, it should be noted that the site is approximately 10- 15 m away from the wetlands in the north of the island, and therefore adjustment of the proposed site location is proposed to ensure at least a 15 m buffer. HA. Molhadhoo An area of 1000 sqm has been cleared for the construction of IWMC by the council. The plot is located at the south western side of the island. 500 sqm is the recommended size for the IWMC with regard to island’s population. The site is accessible directly from the island’s main road and it has been cleared of all vegetation. The closest residential area is at a distance of 99 m from the site. The vegetation line of the island is 52 m from the site. There is an empty plot of 4800 sqm next to the site which has been proposed to be leased out and used for industrial purposes. The council highlighted that this plot could also be used to construct an extension for the IWMC of the need arises in the future. HDH. Finey The proposed IWMC is located in the southwestern side of the island. The site is accessible by a main road stretching north to south through the Island. The site allocated has an area of 25 m by 25 m. The site location has been chosen in order to reduce the impact of odour due to monsoonal winds and proximity to residential locations. The project site has a buffer of 300+ m from the residential as well as the recreational areas, while the site is approximately 290 m from the wetlands, and 90 m from the coastal vegetation belt. HDH. Hirimaradhoo The proposed site is located in the southern region of HDH Hirimaradhoo. The site has been cleared and has no vegetation, and is accessible by the road “Mirihi Magu” The site is 138 m south of the recreational area of Hirimaradhoo, while the nearest coastal vegetation line is at distance of 49 m from the site. The nearest residential area of the island is 120+ m away from the site. HDH. Kurinbi HDh. Kurinbi currently has an IWMC constructed in the island. The Island Waste Management Centre (IWMC) infrastructure is located in the eastern side of the island. The site is accessible by a cleared road. The site complies with the EPA recommended buffers for the coastal vegetation (37 m), nearest freshwater well (114 m), nearest recreational / public area (132 m), wetlands (160+ m) and residential areas (165 m). HDH. Vaikaradhoo The project site is located in the south of HDH. Vaikaradhoo. Access roads are present on both sides of the site. The site is located next to the current waste dumpsite used in the island. The site has been cleared by the Island Council. Therefore, no vegetation, mature or young, is present on site. The site is at a distance of 57 m from the closest vegetation line, and the closest residential area is 130 m from the site. 4. The main activities involving the construction of the IWMC include shallow excavation, substructure and superstructure works as well as masonry works. The proposed design of the IWMC requires a shallow foundation due to the structure being a single story structure. After the structural works are done, masonry, plastering, roofing works are completed prior to the addition of the services components such as electricity and plumbing. The construction phase of the project is expected to be completed within 10 weeks. The IWMC is made up of an equipment room, and separate areas to store metal waste, paper and cardboard, plastic waste, glass waste as well as hazardous waste. 5. The operational phase of the project includes waste collection from households, institutions, and public spaces, sorting, volume reduction and stockpiling of recyclables, composting of organics, and storage of hazardous waste. The IWMC has a capacity of 39 m3 for composting, and approximately 7.9 m3 capacity compartments for glass, plastic, metals and hazardous wastes. 6. Key activities anticipated to have a negative impact during construction phase are: Table 2: Impacts envisaged during construction phase and proposed mitigations Activity Main Impacts Major mitigations Workers Influx and Settlement Impacts on flora and fauna Orient workers on sensitive sites, against catching birds and animals, damage to flora, workforce kept at minimum, littering prohibited. Impacts on resource use Encourage choosing of local contractors, Sociocultural impacts Encourage choosing of local contractors, ensure work permits, worker orientation. Transportation of Materials Marine and terrestrial pollution Cleaning of litter, hazardous waste management and spill kits, secure loads. GHG Emissions Obtain materials from closest source, buy materials in bulk, reduce wastage, use of well serviced, efficient, vehicles conforming to regulations. Roads deterioration Include in agreement to repair any damages after project, Use the shortest route for transportation, only the required amount and size vehicles shall be used. Accidents & Injuries Licensed drivers, avoid transportation at night, secure loads being transferred. Site Demarcation and Fencing Impacts on flora and fauna Surveyors understand scope of works, qualified surveyors, accurate equipment used. Environmental Management Plan for Establishment of IWMC 7 Islands Zone 1 Page 10 Accidents & Injuries Protective clothing, works done during daytime, insect repellent to be available Site clearing and earthworks Loss of vegetation Setting out survey, demarcate the plot, fence off, vegetation targeted for removal marked Terrestrial pollution Excavated material used as backfilling and grading. Accidents & Injuries Licensed machine operators, secure loads being transferred. Noise Provide PPE equipment, use well serviced plant and machinery, reduce vehicle idling time. Construction Material storage Equipment fenced off, no new facilities developed, National Fire Code followed for handling fuel, firefighting equipments available. Terrestrial pollution Temporary storage area set onsite, cleaning of litter, hazardous waste and spill kits, transfer all waste to Thilafushi Noise Provide PPE equipment, use well serviced plant and machinery, reduce vehicle idling time. Impacts on flora and fauna Setting out survey, demarcate the plot, fence off site. Accidents & Injuries Occupational safety plan, orientation, PPE provided. Waste Generation Marine and terrestrial pollution Waste management plan followed, follow 3R steps, municipal and sanitary waste managed, waste transported to Thilafushi after works are completed. Resource Use Water Initiate rainwater harvesting and storage, practice water conservation. Electricity consumption Use well maintained and efficient equipment The impacts identified for the construction phase were all identified to be minor due to the scale of the works of the project. Key activities anticipated to have a negative impact during operation phase were: Table 3: Impacts envisaged during operational phase and proposed mitigations Activity Main Impacts Major mitigations Waste collection and transportation Terrestrial pollution Covered vehicles, littering is prohibited and impose penalties on littering. Climate impacts Regularly service vehicles. Restrict use of vehicles only during stated time in WMP Environmental Management Plan for Establishment of IWMC 7 Islands Zone 1 Page 11 Accidents and injuries Occupational safety plan, orientation, well trained personnel to use vehicles. Air quality Well serviced vehicles, vehicle covered, spray water to suppress dust. Waste management activities (sorting, reduction and composting) Health impacts Regular transport of unmanaged waste to a central waste management facility, provision of temporary storage for untransported waste, reduction of bio aerosol release to the atmosphere by best practices, siting of IWMC, provide protective clothing to workers. Groundwater impacts HDPE linings provided through design, leachate collection system, usage of windrow covers, waste not stockpiled on the ground. Amenity impacts Prohibit littering within the premises and en route to the site on the island, impose penalties for littering, regular cleaning and supervision of the IWMC, keep stockpiles of organics low, keep pest and vermin population low. Air quality impacts Cover putrescible wastes, follow composting best practices Fire hazards Formulate fire management plan, provide firefighting equipment and training, Naked flames shall not be allowed at IWMC, placing awareness signs at the premises. Noise and vibration impacts Provide PPE, equipment well maintained and use scheduled Accidents and injuries Formulate occupational safety plan, worker training, provide PPE, use licensed drivers and operators, placing a first aid kit at IWMC. Waste generation Groundwater pollution Hazardous waste managed in closed containers, spill kits provided. Terrestrial pollution Prohibit eating and cooking in IWMC Resource consumption Water Ensure compost windrow is shaded during dry periods, use a spray hose to decrease water consumption, Electricity consumption Ensure the equipment are properly serviced and maintained, use the shredders and compactors under a plan Positive impacts are expected from the operation of the IWMC, which includes positive impacts to the overall health and well-being of the island community, and positive impacts on the groundwater, terrestrial and marine environment. The local economy is also envisaged to have such impacts due to the generation of jobs, business opportunities through transportation of waste, and income from selling of compost, and other recyclable materials such as metals, glass and plastics. 7. It is expected that approximately 20 - 30% of the waste generated within the islands can be managed at the IWMC. Therefore in order to avoid the IWMCs reaching capacity for storage and composting, it is recommended to conduct regular trips to transport unmanaged waste to a central waste management facility. In contingency for cases where transportation is delayed, it is recommended to provide 660 L wheelie bins within the premises to temporarily store the unmanaged organic waste. Within the given size of the IWMCs, 25 nos. of wheelie bins can be kept on site, which can store unmanaged organic waste while alternative transportation options are arranged. 8. It should be noted that without the proper assistance, financially (in terms of budgetary allowances) and technically (in terms of provision of trainings and equipment), the IWMC runs the risk of potentially turning into a dumpsite, exacerbating the possible negative impacts to the receptors. Provision of resources to the Island Councils, in the form of budgetary allocations, proper training and waste management equipment is seen as a central cog in ensuring the proper management of waste in the island. The proponent shall ensure the aforementioned assistance is provided to the IWMC. 9. Implementation of the Islands’ Waste Management Plan, in addition to the Waste Management Regulations and Guidelines for the islands is seen as crucial in achieving proper waste management within the island. The Island Councils shall ensure the proper operation of the IWMC and waste management within the island through enforcing penalties on nonconformances to gazetted waste management regulations and guidelines for the islands. This will ensure the positive impacts envisaged through this EMP. 10. A reporting mechanism has been proposed for each island with this EMP, which includes the IWMC occupier, the Island Council, and the Proponent. Proper reporting of the IWMC operations within the mechanism can ensure the continued monitoring and evaluation of the operations, provision of required assistance, and provide crucial information for future planning and policy decisions for the Proponent. 11. The Proponent of the project, Ministry of Environment and Energy guarantees their commitment to undertake the necessary mitigation measures and monitoring during all stages of the project that has been proposed in the report. 12. In conclusion, the findings of the EMP shows that the proposed activities for this project has minor negative impacts during the construction phase, and minor negative impacts as well as positive impacts during the operational phase. With appropriate measures, the envisaged negative impacts can be mitigated, and the positive impacts enhanced. Given that the Proponent has committed to the mitigation actions it is anticipated that the project can be implemented with minimum negative environmental impacts, and ensure the positive impacts envisaged from this much-needed project.
Technical Report
First addendum to the environment impact assessment for Koodoo Domestic Airport extension and development of Airport Hotel at Koodoo Island, G. A. Atoll
(2014-12) Maldives Energy and Environmental Company
This is the first addendwn to the EIA report for Kooddoo Domestic airport extension and development of an Airport Hotel at Ga Kooddoo, GA Atoll. This addendum is prepared to address the changes brought to the concept plan of the Airport Hotel and the alternative sand borrow sites recommended in the EIA report. Major changes to the airport hotel concept include the change in nwnber of water villas from 25 to 43, re arrangement of water villas from semi-circular shape to arc-shape with double rows of water villas on the southern ann of the arc. With this change the total number of the rooms in Kooddoo Airport Hotel will increase to 68 rooms. In addition to this the size of the VIP lounge is increased and owner's villa is added at the southern end of the Hotel. With the above changes the total built up area of Kooddoo airport hotel will be increased from 13.41% to 15.43%. The alternative sand borrow site recommended in the EIA report, which was located as on the eastern lagoon of the island, was changed to two sites on southern and northern end of Kooddoo Island, adjacent to the proposed reclamation area respectively. The main reason for changing the alternative borrow area is because of the shallow lagoon depth and swell conditions on the eastern side of the island, which would require cutting an entrance channel for operation of the dredger. Cutting an entrance channel on the eastern side would have irreversible impact to the reef and island and logistical difficulties for the proponent. Baseline data collected during the initial survey nere seen to be sufficient for the purpose of the addendum, thus no additional data was collected for this report. Impact assessment due to the changes were also observed to be more or less similar, but the impact footprint of the development will be changed to include the dredging area on the northern end of the island. However, with proper implementation of the mitigation measures, anticipated impact of dredging could be limited and contained in the work area without widespread dispersion of suspended sediment plume. Therefore the proposed changes will not alter the over-all aspect of the project.