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Technical Report
Addendum 1 for environmental impact assessment of Hulhule-Hulhumale connecting link road development project in North Male‟, Atoll
(2017-09) Water Solutions
This report discusses the findings for the first addendum of the environmental impact assessment undertaken by Water Solutions Pvt. Ltd for undertaking the construction of the link road project between Hulhule-Hulhumale.. The project is proposed by Housing Development Corporation (HDC). The island of Hulhumale has been an important growth centre since its development. Presently, Hulhumale is the fastest growing urban centre and has residential as well as industrial developments to a scale that has never been experienced anywhere in the Maldives. Being close to Male‟ and the airport, Hulhumale has been attracting migrants from all over the Maldives. Construction of the Male‟ to Hulhule Bridge is presently the biggest infrastructure project of its kind under construction in Maldives. This project is very much tied with the present link road as this link road will provide direct connection of Hullhumale and the bridge, ultimately making the traffic flow from Hulhumale to Male‟. This road will be constructed on the east side of the existing land mass of Hulhule airport by reclaiming a small area further west of the existing island. The proposed road will consists of three zones. The details of the link road project is given in the Environmental Impact Assessment Report which is prepared by Water Solutions in August 2017 and the reason for the preparation of this first addendum report is due the change in location of sand burrow areas. In the Environmental Impact Assessment Report it was said that the sand will be obtained from the Hulhumale‟ phase 2, phase 1 and Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL). However now that idea has been dropped out and it is now planned to obtain sand from the eastern side of Uthuru Thila Falhu and the bathymetry shows the depth varies between 40 to 60 meters approximately. The details of the geographic coordinates are given in the section project descriptions and Study Area. This lagoon has been used as a sand burrow area for previous similar projects and is estimated to dredge 410,000 cubic meters of sand from this location. The dredging project is subcontracted to the Dredging International (Cyprus) and it is estimated to complete the project in five to seven days. Environmental impacts were assessed and most of the environmental impacts of the project have been identified as resulting mainly from the coral reef damage caused by reclamation of additional land. Mitigation measures for the negative impacts have been identified and outlined in detail, especially sedimentation control methods. The most important mitigation measure is the use of bund walls in the fill areas. This EIA addendum was undertaken to assess the environmental impacts of the proposed dredging and reclamation to acquire more land for the link road construction project. Based on the assessment, it has been identified that the major impacts of the project will be felt on the marine environment during the dredging and discharging of sand. This EIA addendum report also highlights some of the studies and research work undertaken in similar environments, especially in Male‟، to understand the impacts of reclamation and construction works close to reef slope and how this knowledge can be transferred to similar environments based on the type of coastal protection methods in use. The mitigation measures are provided in the report with alternatives. It is vital to conduct the activities, during both project planning and construction phase, in line with mitigation measures emphasized in the report. Socio-economic impacts of the proposed project will be immense as direct land connection of Male‟ and Hulhumale would bring significant benefits to the general public. Connection of Hulhumale, Male‟ and the airport is a vital transportation link that would save time and money for more than 200,000 people residing in the greater Male‟ region. The environmental impacts of various projects that are currently being undertaken in the airport region have caused significant damage to reef in various areas. This project will also have its impacts, but the impacts will not be anything greater than to what the environment has already been subjected to. Therefore a comprehensive monitoring programme has been suggested which covers components of coastal and marine environment to assess how the critical components of this project will affect the environment and to what extent. It is important to follow this monitoring programme not only to comply with the regulation but also to ensure that the impacts are measures in realistic terms. Though some of the components of this project contravenes with the Dredging and reclamation regulation; the amendments brought to the regulation facilitates that this project could be implemented. Hulhule island is a special zone and Under clause 10 of the dredging and reclamation regulation, special projects are exempted. As the environmental consultants, it is our opinion that this project should be allowed to proceed as the environmental impacts of this project does not pose serious concerns to the natural environment. It is a project that has far greater socio-economic benefits than these limited environmental impacts.
Technical Report
Addendum 1 to environmental impact assessment for the proposed resort development at Maadhoo Finolhu, Kaafu Atoll, Maldives
(2014-08) Water Solutions
This report discusses the findings of an environmental study undertaken as an Addendum to the Environmental Impact Assessment carried out for the resort development at Maadhoofinolhu, Kaafu Atoll. This environmental study has been undertaken by Water Solutions Pvt. Ltd. for the changes that had been brought to the scope of the resort development project at Maadhoofinolhu which has been approved by 12 August 2014 by Ministry of Tourism. This Addendum to the EIA shall only be used for the purpose of issuing the Environmental Permit under the EIA Regulation 2012 and Environment Law 4/93. This project is proposed by DPC Private Limited. The island is proposed to be developed as a 100 villa resort island. Main changes that had been brought to the scope of the resort development project are; creating a sand bank C with an area of 3,400 sqm to develop , relocation of the guest arrival facilities to north western side of the island allowing development of additional beach villas on western side of the island , relocation of the entrance channel to north western side of the island, shifting the water villas on northern side of the island, relocation of the spa complex on sand bank B and developing an overwater resturant between the main island and sand bank B. The materials from dredging of the entrance channel would be used for the reclamation of the island. The materials for the creation of the sand bank C would be obtained by dredging shallow lagoon on north eastern side of the island near the proposed water villas on this side of the island. The dredged area would be used as a swimming area by the guests at the water villas. This EIA Addendum report has identified that the major impacts of the project will be felt on the marine environment of the island. Impacts on the marine environment will be felt through sedimentation and siltation caused by reclamation activity in the lagoon and the associated indirect impacts on the coral reef, during this period. Baseline data has been collected and reported in the EIA report. Impact on the marine environment will be identified through the monitoring. This will be reported in follow up monitoring reports. The most significant impact will be felt on the lagoon bottom and adjacent coral reef. Alternatives to the project have also been considered. An alternative would be to create additional land at sand bank B that would be created on north eastern side of the island. But this option would bring the real estate value as creating a separate sand bank to develop the presidential suite. Mitigation measures for the negative impacts have been identified and outlined in detail, especially sedimentation control methods. The proposed mitigation measures will have to be followed in order to minimize environmental damage. The main negative environmental impact of the proposed project would be sedimentation, which may cause death of corals. The coral reef being the main tourism asset needs to be protected. In fact, there is a great economic imperative to protect reefs. Hence, the mitigation measures have been selected with that in mind. For this reason, the proponent finds it easier to accept the proposed mitigation measures and have made commitment to undertake the mitigation measures as proposed in the EIA report. Towards, the end of the report, a monitoring programme has been suggested which mainly covers the marine environment. These include coral cover and marine water quality among other parameters. As the impacts are felt on the marine environment, it is important to undertake this monitoring. The proposed project conforms to environmental and tourism legislation and thrives to achieve its objectives in an environmentally acceptable manner. Therefore, it appears justified from a technical, social, economic and environmental point of view, to carry out the proposed development project according to the proposed methodologies including proposed mitigation measures and environmental monitoring programme.
Technical Report
Addendum 2 environmental impact assessment for the reclamation and expansion at Ibrahim Nasir International Airport, Hulhulhé, Kaafu Atoll
(2015-09) Water Solutions
This report discusses the findings of an addendum that carried out for the environmental impact study (EIA) which was carried out by Water Solutions Pvt. Ltd. at the request of Maldives Airports Company Limited in July 2014. This EIA Addendum 2 report covers for changes that had been made to the reclamation component of the Ibrahim Nasir International Airport (INIA) expansion project. The report also covers proposed 7.1 m wide road development on southern end of the island and development of a 4.84 km sewerage collection, treatment and disposal system via 495m ocean outfall as part of the Ibrahim Nasir International Airport expansion and modernisation project. Refer to the Environmental Impact Assessment for the Proposed Expansion and Reclamation at Ibrahim Nasir International Airport (2015) for the details of the project. This EIA report has been approved by EPA. It is not seen that any significant environmental impacts would be due to the changes that had been brought to the reclamation component, addition of the road and sewerage system as part of the development, other than those outlined in the Environmental Impact Assessment for the Proposed Expansion and Reclamation at Ibrahim Nasir International Airport (2015). The project involves inevitable negative environmental impacts to the natural environment of the island.
Technical Report
Addendum to environmental impact assessment for the changes that had been made to the harbour rehabilitation project at Kurendhoo Island, Lavaiyani Atoll, Maldives
(2013-03) Water Solutions
This report discusses the findings of social and environmental impact study undertaken by Water Solutions Pvt. Ltd. at the request of Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure for the changes proposed to harbour rehabilitation project at Lh, Kurendhoo. Kurendhoo with a total land area of about 19.9 hectares is located at 5º32’59’ N and 73º27’57” E. The island is inhabited island, with slightly over 72.0 persons per hectare. Kurendhoo is in a strategic location given that it is located in the middle of all inhabited islands of the atoll with easy access for inter- and intra-atoll travel. The closest inhabited island is Maafilaafushi, which was chosen by the Government as a potential growth-focused island. The Ministry of Housing and Environment awarded the Kurendhoo harbor developed project to Works Cooperation Limited in 2011 to develop the harbor in accordance with the “EIA for the proposed rehabilitation of harbour in Kurendhoo, Lhaviyani Atoll, February 2011”. EPA approved the proposed harbor development project at Kurendhoo which was outlined in the EIA report. The actual harbor development project deviated from the original plans that were approved by EPA. EPA intervened and stopped the project in 2012. When EPA intervened, 12,000 m2 of area was reclaimed on south of harbor from the material that was excavated from the harbor basin. This was the material that needs to dispose to the area that was eroding on north eastern side of the island. 166 m of the quay wall has been completed and the dredging of the harbor basin has been completed. The island community, island council and the MP of the island has requested the Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure to bring some changes to the original plan that had been approved. Hence following changes has been made to the Kurendhoo Harbour Development project. - Extending the quay wall to northern section of the harbor. Total quay wall would be 300 m - Construction of a rock boulder revetment on north eastern side of the island to mitigate sever erosion - Construction of a rock boulder breakwater on either side of the entrance channel - Construction of 450 m of rock boulder breakwater to protect the harbor basin - Construction of 276 m of coral revetment to protect the area that had been reclaimed - Removal of the 6,875 m2 of sand from the area that had been reclaimed on south side of the island. - Replenishment of 3,900 m2 of area on north eastern side of the island and 1,570 m2 on south eastern side of the island. - Placement of marker lights on the entrance channel and the navigation light to mark the entrance channel to the atoll. Environmental and socioeconomic impacts of the additional works for the harbour development project were assessed. The impacts of the project result mainly from excavation of the harbour basin of the area that had not been excavated, placement of the breakwater, construction of the breakwaters at the entrance channel, construction of the revetment and disposal of the excavated materials as to mitigate the erosion on north west and south eastern side of the island. The impact of excavation would be that of sedimentation. The excavation area also falls to the hard rock area of the reef flat and hence this would cause difficult to excavate using light machineries. It is recommended to use heavy machineries to excavate the western sections of the harbour basin. The project would help to address the current erosion problem by replenishing the eroding beach with the materials borrowed from the harbour basin. The socio-economic benefits of the project may be considered to outweigh the negative impacts of the project on the physical environment of the island especially increasing the usable space on north western side of the island. The proposed project conforms to prevalent environmental legislation and thrives to achieve its objectives in a environmentally friendly manner. Mitigation measures for these anticipated impacts have been identified and outlined in detail, including sedimentation and stagnation control methods and measures for minimizing negative effects of construction waste. These mitigation measures need to be followed in order to minimize environmental damage. The details of the additional component of the project have been established after considering the needs and requirements of the community by assessing and incorporating the outcomes from the stakeholder consultations held during the data collection stage. The EIA also allowed to explore the best possible alternatives for the proposed development and identified key mitigation strategies. Alternative locations and alternative designs have been investigated for the different components of the project. However, the present project design seems to be a feasible option in terms of costs, durability, safety and incorporation of the expectation of all stakeholders. An environmental management plan with environmental monitoring plan has been developed including important elements that require regular checks. This monitoring component will be adhered to and will allow the assessment of changes due to construction of the harbour. Although the project involves negative environmental impacts, such impacts are not severe as to not bring changes to the original harbour development project. The changes to project is justifiable in light of the socio-economic conditions and anticipated benefits resulting from the project, which seem to outweigh the negative environmental impacts.
Technical Report
Addendum to environmental impact assessment for the proposed upgrading and redevelopment in Athuruga Resort, South Ari Atoll, Maldives
(2009-12-01) Water Solutions
This is an addendum to the EIA submitted in May 2009 for the redevelopment of Athuruga resort in South Ari Atoll. This Addendum highlights the different modification to the initial redevelopment project that was proposed in the EIA report. These includes, deepening the existing entrance channel, undertaking the coastal protection component including construction of the groynes, nourishment of eroded beach and construction of breakwaters, reuse of corals from demolition wastes as an effective waste management strategy and the relocation of the proposed overwater restaurant from the northern side of the walkway jetty to the southern side. The other changes that had been brought to the redevelopment project includes reducing the number of over water bungalows from 25 to 23, reduce the number of house‐keeping huts on the walkway jetty from 3 to 2, not developing the over‐water spa in the southern side of the walkway jetty and changing the reception at the centre of the northern walkway jetty to a bar. The new changes that had been brought to the master plan of the development would decrease the development foot print on the marine environment. The new component that had been included in the redevelopment project is the coastal protection component that was not initially proposed in the original project. Groynes had been built in Athuruga for many years. This has helped to retain the beach and prevent severe erosion of the island. However, since the re‐development project was initially proposed without the coastal protection component, this component has been proposed in this addendum in order to undertake the works as without coastal protection, it would be very challenging to manage erosion. The coastal protection component was not included in the redevelopment project, as the groynes existed on the island and these structures, which were made out of corals and coral rubbles, were moved around depending on the monsoon. Hence, it is proposed to build these groynes field around the island. Since Athuruga has lost large amount of beach, replenishment of sand is required to prevent further erosion and sustainably manage the coastline. The proposed project includes pumping of 6,900 m³ sand to the beach on the western, northern and eastern side of the island. Part of the materials for the beach replenishment would be obtained from the excavated spoil from the channel deepening component of the project. It is also proposed to build a submerged breakwater at the northern and western side of the island. This has been proposed as a additional defence to prevent the continuous erosion that the island endures. The project also proposes to deepen the existing entrance channel which is located on north western side of the island. The channel has become very shallow, causing difficulty for the boats to access the island during low tides. The project is proposed to deepen the existing channel to a depth of 3 meters at low tide. Since coral rubbles on a sandy sea floor is the main benthic substrate found in the existing channel, the channel deepening operations with an excavator is not expected to have a significant impact on the marine environment. The concept of redevelopment is to capture the architectural signature that was originally created at the island. Therefore, with this intention, the new buildings which are constructed with building blocks is being planned to be decorated with a layer of corals that have been recovered in the demolition waste stream. In the original EIA, this issue was not extensively elaborated. Hence, this addendum has included a section which deals with the reuse of the corals in the demolition waste stream. The proposed changes appears justified from an environmental point of view as there are no additional moderate to major impacts on the environment due to the proposed changes.
Technical Report
Addendum to environmental impact assessment for the reclamation at Guriadhoo, Thaa Atoll
(2014-02) Water Solutions
This report discusses the findings of an environmental study undertaken as an Addendum to the Environmental Impact Assessment carried out for the reclamation project at Guraidhoo Island, Thaa Atoll. This environmental study has been undertaken by Water Solutions Pvt. Ltd. for the changes that had been brought to the scope of the reclamation protect at Th. Guraidhoo. The reclamation project is proposed by Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure. Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure is the government institution which undertakes key infrastructure development projects in the country. Reclamation projects are one of the main infrastructure projects undertaken by the Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure. The developer is proposing to change the method of borrowing sand for reclamation using cutter suction dredging from hopper suction dredging and adding additional 20 hectares to the reclamation project proposed to the island. These changes have been brought to reduce the cost of the project by utilising available technologies in the Maldives. This EIA Addendum report has identified that the major impacts of the project will be felt on the marine environment since borrow area would be located in the lagoon of the island. Impacts on the marine environment will be felt through sedimentation and siltation caused by the dredging activity in the lagoon and the associated indirect impacts on the coral reef, during this period. Baseline data has been collected and report in the EIA report. Impact on the marine environment will be identified through the monitoring. This will be reported in follow up monitoring reports. The most significant impact will be felt on the lagoon bottom, rather than the coral reef. Alternatives to the project have also been considered in detail and several alternatives to the proposed project were considered, including alternative area to borrow sand. An alternative would be use a hopper suction dredger to borrow sand from the atoll lagoon floor. But this option has not been considered due to high cost factor. An alternative area to borrow using cutter suction dredger would be southern side of the island. But reaching this area would be difficult for the cutter suction dredger. Towards, the end of the report, a monitoring programme has been suggested which mainly covers the marine environment. These include coral cover and marine water quality among many other parameters. As the impacts are felt on the marine environment, it is important to undertake this monitoring.
Technical Report
Addendum to the environmental impact assessment for the harbour development at Kelaa, Haa Alifu Atoll, Maldives
(2016-03) Water Solutions
This report is an addendum to the EIA for the harbour development project at HA. Kela carried out in 2015 based on the change of the scope of the project. This addendum to EIA has been undertaken by Water Solutions Pvt. Ltd. at the request of Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure for the change of scope to the harbour expansion and redevelopment project at HA. Kela. Refer to the EIA for the harbour development project at HA. Kela (2015) for the details of the harbour development project at HA. Kela. Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure awarded the harbour development contract to Capital Investment and Finance Limited. Capital Investment and Finance Limited recommended Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure to expand the harbour to east than to west as this would reduce the breakwater development cost of the project. Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure in consultation with Kelaa Island Council and Kelaa Island Community agreed to expand the harbour expansion to east of the exiting harbour. The main change to scope of the project is to expand harbour to east of the existing harbour. Additionally, it is proposed to extend the breakwater by 15 m on north eastern side as protection measure to protect the area which would be reclaimed as part of the project. The new harbour expansion would allow to reuse the existing quay wall blocks which is located on north eastern side of the harbour. EPA has granted an approval to carry out the required dredging and reclamation associated with the harbour development at the island with the revised harbour design. Environmental impacts due to the changes to scope of the harbour development project at Kelaa have been assessed. The impacts on the island due to the extending the harbour to east and extending the length of breakwater to north east would not be significant as those identified in the EIA for the harbour development in HA. Kelaa (2015). The impact of excavation would be that of sedimentation. This impact is considered to be minor and short-term. Excavation would have irreversible impacts. Reclaiming the adjacent area north east of harbour would improve the condition of beach on this side of the island. Moving the harbour extension from west to east would help to keep the huge beach on western side of the island keeping the identity of the island. The changes brought to the scope of the project conform to prevalent environmental legislation. Mitigation measures for these anticipated impacts have been identified and outlined, including sedimentation and stagnation control methods. These mitigation measures need to be followed in order to minimize environmental damage. The project scope has been changed considering the needs and requirements of the community by consulting members of the Island Council and Island Community. The EIA Addendum also allowed to explore alternatives for the changes brought to the project and identified key mitigation strategies. Alternative locations and alternative designs have been investigated for the harbour development. However, the present project design seems to be an acceptable the island council and island community.
Technical Report
Addendum to the environmental impact assessment for the proposed airport development in Dharavandhoo, Baa Atoll
(2011-06) Water Solutions
This is an addendum to the EIA submitted in April 2008 for the proposed airport development in Dharavandhoo. This Addendum highlights the different modifications to the initial project that was proposed in the EIA report. In principle, the addendum addresses the issues of changing the layout of the reclamation in comparison to the initial project concept. The major modification of the project concept includes - Modifying the area of the reclamation through a reduction of the environmental foot print in order to expedite the project as well as reduce the overall cost. - Reducing the airport boundary. The proposed modification work will not increase the foot print on the marine environment. The proposed modification of the layout on the eastern side of the island will aim to reduce the reclaimed area thereby saving cost in terms of reclamation as well as spending on coastal protection. Most part of the proposed reclamation has now been completed and the developers have realized that by slightly modifying the Layout to reduce the total area will not affect the airport services and facilities. As a result, the proposed change will increase the efficiency of the work force by allowing them to concentrate on other works and complete the project on time. This will also reduce the material requirements for coastal protection. The proposed modification therefore appears justified from an environmental point of view as there are no additional impacts on the environment due to the proposed change. Through this EIA addendum, the proponent proposes to undertake the approval necessary for this modification.
Technical Report
Addendum to the environmental impact assessment for the proposed coastal protection in Alidhoo, Haa Alifu Atoll, Maldives
(2010-05-01) Water Solutions
This is an addendum to the EIA submitted in April 2008 for the proposed coastal protection of Alidhoo resort in Haa Alif Atoll. This Addendum highlights the maintenance component to the initial project that was proposed in the EIA report. In principle, the addendum addresses maintenance component only. These include, deepening the existing mooring area and repairing part of the vertical emerged breakwater which has been damaged by bad weather. The breakwater repair will not modify the breakwater and it is intended to restore the breakwater to its original design. The proposed maintenance work will not increase the foot print on the marine environment. The proposed deepening of the existing mooring area which is located on north eastern side of the island will aim to restore the depths initially proposed for the mooring area. The mooring area has become very shallow, causing difficulty for the boats to access during low tide. The project is proposed to deepen the existing mooring area to a depth of 3 meters at low tide, only in areas where filling has taken place. Since fine sand and few coral rubble is the main benthic substrate found in the mooring area, the deepening operations with a sand pump is not expected to have a significant impact on the marine environment. Approximately 450 cubic meters of sand will be dredged from the mooring basin. The maintenance work proposed is aimed at restoring the original project to meet its original objectives and to ensure that the resort operation is not affected. Hence, this addendum highlights these issues which need to be undertaken. The proposed maintenance work appears justified from an environmental point of view as there are no additional moderate to major impacts on the environment due to the proposed works. Through this EIA addendum, the proponent proposes to undertake the maintenance work and also a permit to undertake annual deepening of the mooring area.
Technical Report
Addendum to the environmental impact assessment for the proposed coastal protection of Summer Island (Ziyaaraifushi Island), North Male’ Atoll, Maldives
(2012-09) Water Solutions
Technical Report
Environmental & social impact assessment for the proposed construction of housing units at Nolhivaranfaru, Haa Dhaalu Atoll, Maldives
(2011-03) Water Solutions
• This EIA report is prepared for the construction of 100 houses in Nolhivaranfaru island of Haa Dhaalu Atoll. The project will be implemented with assistance received from the Chineese government. • The assessment reveals that the major impact of the project would be the loss of natural habitat or loss of vegetation from the proposed housing area. This impact is unavoidable as trees have to be cleared from the site before construction can begin. • Therefore, the most significant direct impacts are going to be resulting from the loss of flora and fauna from this area. • The proposed area for the construction of 100 houses has already been cleared in 2008 for a similar housing project that was undertaken then. During that time, this project was also foreseen and hence, the land was cleared so that no future land clearing would be required for this project. • However, since then, the cleared land has been populated with weeds and wild trees but nothing of significant in nature. All coconut trees and other significant mature trees in this area were compensated; some were relocated and moved elsewhere. • Although land has been previously cleared for this development, 47 houses have been constructed as part of the earlier project. This therefore requires clearing of an additional land area to construct 47 more houses under this project. • Although this is the case, the proponent of the project shall develop necessary plans and implement the mitigation measures in association with relevant agencies to compensate for the loss of additional trees, especially mature trees. It is suggested to implement a replantation programme in consultation with the island and under the guidance of island office. Therefore, financial provisions shall be made available from the national budget to plant additional trees in the island. • The project will benefit the region by helping to develop the island as a regional centre. The project will help to provide better services, facilities and opportunities for new residents. • Several alternatives for the proposed project have been identified and they are discussed in detail. One of the alternatives identified is to construct multi storey housing flats rather than individual houses. • In light of this assessment, the proposed project has been found to have more positive than negative impacts, both environmentally and socially. It is crucial for the client to manage the project in consultation and assistance with other stakeholders if the environmental impacts are to be minimized.
Technical Report
Environmental & social impact assessment for the proposed construction of sewerage system in Kelaa, Haa Alif Atoll, Maldives
(2011-05) Water Solutions
 This EIA report is prepared for the construction of a sewerage system in the island of Kelaa Haa Alifu Atoll. The project will be implemented by Upper North Utilities with the funding from Government of Maldives.  The proposed project aims to establish a sewerage system where household wastewater gets collected in to a sewer network and gets discharged into the open ocean via an outfall. Surveys and assessments were done in Keaa to identify the best possible option and suitable system including evaluating alternatives to the project.  The proposed system will ensure that the groundwater of the island does not get contaminated through improper sanitation systems. It will also ensure that the surrounding marine environment will improve in terms of environmental quality and will ensure pollution from sewage does not occur. These measures are expected to bring several positive impacts on the health of the people other than improving the environmental quality.  Various alternative to the proposed system were also studied. One of the options identified include treatment of sewage and the use of vacuum systems. Based on the assessment, these alternatives were assessed to identify their potential application in Kelaa against the proposed system  The island’s sanitation system is developed on traditional septic tank system. All the houses have toilet facilities which have on site septic tanks system on the island. The ground water of the island is been used for toilet flushing and other purposes other than drinking. The main portable water is from the private water tanks on individual houses.  The assessment reveals that the project can be implemented without significant impact on the natural environment of the island.  The impact area due to the implementation of the project would be the loss of vegetation due to the construction of the pump station, lying of the sewer network and the reef environment due to the construction of the outfall.  These impacts would be unavoidable as trees have to be cleared from the site before construction can begin for the pump station. The outfall need to be properly anchored to hard substrate of the reef.  Therefore, the most significant direct impacts are going to be resulting from the loss of flora and fauna from the area where the pump station would be constructed.  The proposed area for the construction of the pump house and the road which would connect the sewer network to the pump house has not yet been cleared. The Kelaa Island Council is working to give compensation to the trees that need to be removed from the roads and the site allocated for the pump house. It is estimated that 932 mature trees would be removed from roads and the site allocated for the pump house.  To compensate the tree losses, the proponent has already made plans to re‐plant more trees on the green zones and Environmental Protection Zones(s) (EPZ) of the island. It is also planned that trees will be retained in the area which would be provided to the Upper North Utility company where possible, and/or planted within the boundary once construction works are completed. Therefore, a long term tree plantation programme will be developed and implemented in association with concerned agencies.  The proponent of the project shall develop necessary plans and implement the mitigation measures in association with relevant agencies to compensate for the loss of mature trees. It is suggested to implement a re‐plantation programme in consultation with the island and under the guidance of island council. Therefore, financial provisions shall be made available from the national budget to plant additional trees in the island.  Several alternatives for the proposed project have been identified and they are discussed in detail.  All activities of the project will be closely monitored by site supervisors of Upper North Ultities and Kelaa Island Council  In light of this assessment, the proposed project has been found to have more positive than negative impacts, both environmentally and socially. It is crucial for the client to manage the project in consultation and assistance with other stakeholders if the environmental impacts are to be minimized.
Technical Report
Environmental & social impact assessment for the proposed construction of sewerage system in Maamigilli, Alifu Dhaalu Atoll, Maldives
(2016-11) Water Solutions
This EIA report is prepared for the construction of a sewerage system in the island of Maamigilli Alifu Dhaalu Atoll. The project will be implemented by MWSC.  The proposed project aims to establish a sewerage system where household wastewater gets collected in to a sewer network and gets discharged into the open ocean via an outfall. Surveys and assessments were done in Maamigilli to identify the best possible option and suitable system including evaluating alternatives to the project.  The proposed system will ensure that the groundwater of the island does not get contaminated through improper sanitation systems. It will also ensure that the groundwater and the surrounding marine environment will improve in terms of environmental quality and will ensure pollution from sewage does not occur. These measures are expected to bring multiple positive impacts to the health of the people other than improving the environmental quality.  Various alternatives to the proposed system were also studied. One of the options identified include treatment of sewage and the use of vacuum systems. Based on the assessment, these alternatives were assessed to identify their potential application in Maamigilli against the proposed system. Advantages and disadvantages of these options have also been discussed in the report.  The island‟s existing sanitation is developed on traditional septic tank system. All the houses have toilet facilities which have onsite septic tanks. The ground water of the island is been used for toilet flushing and for purposes other than drinking. The main portable water is from the private water tanks in individual houses or from the community water plant. Desalination plant is operated in the island by Villa Shipping and Trading Company.  The assessment reveals that the project can be implemented without significant impact on the natural environment of the island.  The impact area due to the implementation of the project would be the loss of vegetation from the construction of the pump station, excavation and laying of the sewer network and the reef environment due to the construction of the outfall. These impacts would be unavoidable as trees have to be cleared from the site before construction can begin for the pump station. The outfall needs to be properly anchored to hard substrate of the reef.  Therefore, the most significant direct impacts are going to be resulting from the loss of flora and fauna from the area where the pump station as well on the marine environment where outfall will be constructed. The Maamigilli Island Council will provide compensation to the owners of the coconut palms or trees that need to be removed from the land allocated for pump stations.  The proponent and contractor should avoid any project activity that will directly impact the MPA of Maamigilli. Waste water outfall should be monitored in regular basis to study the impact area.  The proponent of the project shall develop necessary plans and implement the mitigation measures in association with relevant agencies to mitigate the predicted impacts.  Several alternatives for the proposed project have been identified and they are discussed in detail. For this project, proposed concept is the best option. The current concept is designed after an initial survey by MWSC. Outfall location is proposed after the stakeholder consultation and EIA survey.  All activities of the project will be closely monitored by Maamigilli Island Council. A monitoring plan is developed for this project. It is very important to adhere this monitoring program to study whether the projected impacts.  In light of this assessment, the proposed project has been found to have more positive than negative impacts, both environmentally and socially. It is crucial for the client to manage the project in consultation and assistance with other stakeholders if the environmental impacts are to be minimized.
Technical Report
Environmental audit at AA. Kandholhudhoo for the registration of existing desalination plant and powerhouse
(2011-02) Water Solutions
The Ministry of Housing and Environment requires that desalination plants and powerhouse in the Maldives be registered. In order to carry out the registration process, environmental clearance is required from EPA. A decision statement regarding the Environmental Impact Assessment of the power and water infrastructure needs to be obtained from EPA. In order to provide such clearance, EPA requires that an environmental audit be done for existing facilities. Environmental Protection Agency has decided that an Environmental Audit Environmental is required for the registration of desalination plant under the Desalination Regulation of the Maldives and Guidelines for Power System Approval issued by the Maldives Energy Authority. The objectives of the report are:  to assess the environmental performance of the existing powerhouse and desalination plant at Kandholhudhoo  to facilitate the application to register the existing powerhouse and desalination plant according to the requirements of the Environmental Protection Agency and the Maldives Energy Authority.  To demonstrate the commitment by the proponent to undertaken environmental monitoring.  To fulfill the obligations of the proponent to undertake an EIA under Clause 5 of the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act of the Maldives and requirements of the Tourism Regulations.
Technical Report
Environmental audit at Bandos Island Resort for the registration of existing desalination plant and powerhouse
(2011-03) Water Solutions
The Ministry of Housing and Environment requires that desalination plants and powerhouse in the Maldives are registered. In order to carry out the registration process, environmental clearance is required from EPA. A decision statement regarding the Environmental Impact Assessment of the power and water infrastructure needs to be obtained from EPA. In order to provide such clearance EPA requires that an environmental audit be done for existing facilities. Environmental Protection Agency has decided that an Environmental Audit Environmental is required for the registration of desalination plant under the Desalination Regulation of the Maldives and Guidelines for Power System Approval issued by the Maldives Energy Authority. 1 . 1 Aim s a n d Obj e c t i v e s The objective of the report is to:  to assess the environmental performance of the existing powerhouse and desalination plant at Bandos Island Resort  to facilitate the application to register of existing powerhouse and desalination plant according to the requirements of the Environmental Protection Agency and the Maldives Energy Authority.  To demonstrate the commitment by the proponent to undertaken environmental monitoring.  To fulfill the obligations of the proponent to undertake an EIA under Clause 5 of the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act of the Maldives and requirements of the Tourism Regulations.
Technical Report
Environmental audit at Four Seasons Landaagiraavaru for the registration of existing desalination plant
(2011-03) Water Solutions
The Ministry of Housing and Environment requires that desalination plants in the Maldives are registered. In order to carry out the registration process, environmental clearance is required from EPA. A decision statement regarding the Environmental Impact Assessment of the water infrastructure needs to be obtained from EPA. In order to provide such clearance EPA requires that an environmental audit be done for existing facilities. Environmental Protection Agency has decided that an Environmental Audit is required for the registration of desalination plant under the Desalination Regulation of the Maldives. The objective of the report is to:  to assess the environmental performance of the existing desalination plants  to facilitate the application to register of existing desalination plant according to the requirements of the Environmental Protection Agency  To demonstrate the commitment by the proponent to undertaken environmental monitoring  To fulfill the obligations of the proponent to undertake an EIA under Clause 5 of the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act of the Maldives and requirements of the Tourism Regulations
Technical Report
Environmental audit at Halaveli for the registration of existing desalination plant
(2011-02) Water Solutions
1 Introduction The Ministry of Housing and Environment requires that desalination plants in the Maldives are registered. In order to carry out the registration process, environmental clearance is required from EPA. A decision statement regarding the Environmental Impact Assessment of the water infrastructure needs to be obtained from EPA. In order to provide such clearance EPA requires that an environmental audit be done for existing facilities. Environmental Protection Agency has decided that an Environmental Audit is required for the registration of desalination plant under the Desalination Regulation of the Maldives. 1 . 1 Aims and Objectives The objective of the report is to:  to assess the environmental performance of the existing desalination plant  to facilitate the application to register of existing desalination plant according to the requirements of the Environmental Protection Agency.  To demonstrate the commitment by the proponent to undertaken environmental monitoring.  To fulfill the obligations of the proponent to undertake an EIA under Clause 5 of the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act of the Maldives and requirements of the Tourism Regulations. 1 . 2 Environmental Audit Implementation This audit has been undertaken by a local environmental consulting firm, Water Solutions. Water Solutions have been chosen by the proponent as the environmental consultants for this project. The team members were:  Ahmed Jameel, Environmental Engineer (EIA Registration No: EIA 07/07)  Abdul Aleem, MPH, BSc. Environmental Health (EIA Registration No: EIA 09/07)  Mohamed Riyaz, Assistant Surveyor
Technical Report
Environmental audit at Kuramathi for the registration of existing desalination plant and powerhouse
(2011-01) Water Solutions
The Ministry of Housing and Environment requires that desalination plants and powerhouse in the Maldives be registered. In order to carry out the registration process, environmental clearance is required from EPA. A decision statement regarding the Environmental Impact Assessment of the power and water infrastructure needs to be obtained from EPA. In order to provide such clearance, EPA requires that an environmental audit be done for existing facilities. Environmental Protection Agency has decided that an Environmental Audit Environmental is required for the registration of desalination plant under the Desalination Regulation of the Maldives and Guidelines for Power System Approval issued by the Maldives Energy Authority. The objectives of the report are: • to assess the environmental performance of the existing powerhouse and desalination plant at Kuramati • to facilitate the application to register the existing powerhouse and desalination plant according to the requirements of the Environmental Protection Agency and the Maldives Energy Authority. • To demonstrate the commitment by the proponent to undertaken environmental monitoring. • To fulfill the obligations of the proponent to undertake an EIA under Clause 5 of the Environmental Protection
Technical Report
Environmental audit at Maafushivaru for the registration of existing desalination plant and powerhouse
(2011-03) Water Solutions
Technical Report
Environmental audit at Maafushivaru for the registration of existing desalination plant and powerhouse
(2011-03) Water Solutions
The Ministry of Housing and Environment requires that desalination plants and powerhouse in the Maldives are registered. In order to carry out the registration process, environmental clearance is required from EPA. A decision statement regarding the Environmental Impact Assessment of the power and water infrastructure needs to be obtained from EPA. In order to provide such clearance EPA requires that an environmental audit be done for existing facilities. Environmental Protection Agency has decided that an Environmental Audit Environmental is required for the registration of desalination plant under the Desalination Regulation of the Maldives and Guidelines for Power System Approval issued by the Maldives Energy Authority. The objective of the report is to:  to assess the environmental performance of the existing powerhouse and desalination plant at Maafushivaru  to facilitate the application to register of existing powerhouse and desalination plant according to the requirements of the Environmental Protection Agency and the Maldives Energy Authority.  To demonstrate the commitment by the proponent to undertaken environmental monitoring.  To fulfill the obligations of the proponent to undertake an EIA under Clause 5 of the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act of the Maldives and requirements of the Tourism Regulations.
Technical Report
Environmental audit at Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa for the registration of existing desalination plant
(2011-04) Water Solutions
1 Introduction The Ministry of Housing and Environment requires that desalination plants in the Maldives are registered. In order to carry out the registration process, environmental clearance is required from EPA. A decision statement regarding the Environmental Impact Assessment of the water infrastructure needs to be obtained from EPA. In order to provide such clearance EPA requires that an environmental audit be done for existing facilities. Environmental Protection Agency has decided that an Environmental Audit is required for the registration of desalination plant under the Desalination Regulation of the Maldives. 1 . 1 Aims and Objectives The objective of the report is to:  to assess the environmental performance of the existing desalination plants  to facilitate the application to register of existing desalination plant according to the requirements of the Environmental Protection Agency  To demonstrate the commitment by the proponent to undertaken environmental monitoring  To fulfill the obligations of the proponent to undertake an EIA under Clause 5 of the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act of the Maldives and requirements of the Tourism Regulations
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment : for undertaking reclamation and quaywall construction at ALIA Thilafushi site, Thilafushi, Kaafu Atoll
(2017-01-01) Water Solutions
This report discusses the findings of an environmental impact study undertaken by Water Solutions Pvt. Ltd. for ALIA Investment Pvt Ltd. The project involves construction of quaywall of the Thilafushi ALIA Site. The project aims to: •Provide safety and protection to the vessels accessing the site. •Increase the land area of the site One of the challenges facing ALIA Thilafushi Site is lack of a proper quaywall. Therefore vessels accessing the site has to use adjacent site quaywalls to handle cargos coming in out of the site. Main components of the project include: •Construction of 20m concrete quaywall on the lagoon side of the site. Quaywall will be aligned as same level as the adjacent sites. •Filling of 450m2 are of the site. Sand will be acquired commercially for this purpose. Estimated volume of sand is 2800 cbm. Environmental impacts of this project were assessed and most of the environmental impacts of the project have been identified as resulting from the filling works. Sedimentation from the construction works is the biggest threat to the marine environment of Thilafushi from this project. Mitigation measures for the negative impacts have been identified and outlined in the report. Sedimentation control methods have been specifically focused due to its seriousness. An important mitigation measure is the use of bund walls in the filling area to contain sedimentation and reduce its impact on the reef. In addition, completing the filling works in the shortest time frame is also a significant mitigation measure to minimize the impact of sedimentation on the marine environment. The proposed mitigation measures will have to be followed in order to minimize environmental damage. The measures proposed to minimize or mitigate environmental impacts may be considered to be appropriate, thereby minimizing the impact by about 90%. It is inevitable that there would be negative environmental impacts of this project. As a result, a mitigation and monitoring component has been suggested which takes into consideration, the most important elements that require monitoring, most importantly a mechanism and means to measure and value the social benefit of the project. This monitoring component will be adhered and will allow the assessment of long term changes, despite the potential negative impacts. The proposed project does pose some threats to the marine environment of the area. Even though, the existing environmental condition of the project site is degraded, there will be direct and indirect damage to marine environment in the vicinity of the project site. However there are many positive benefits of the project in long term. This project is justifiable in the light of the positive impacts.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment (EIA) report for the modification of the harbour ( harbour rehabilitation) at Biledhoo Island, Faafu Atoll, Maldives
(2016-12-01) Water Solutions; ވޯޓާރ ސޮލިއުޝަންސް
This report discusses the findings of a social and environmental impact study undertaken by Water Solutions Pvt. Ltd. upon request from Ministry of Housing and infrastructure. The project involves construction of a harbour entrance channel and associated works in the island of Bilehdhoo in, Faafu Atoll. As such the project involves the following components. • Construction of a new entrance channel • Construction of 68m rock boulder breakwater • Closing the existing entrance channel and undertaking maintenance dredging for 3m below Mean Sea Level (MSL). The harbour is presently in need of upgrading in terms of a more functional entrance channel and maintenance dredging in some areas. Due to the orientation and lack of protection of the present entrance channel, it creates unfavourable conditions inside the harbour basin. The basin is extremely rough and vessel safety is a serious issue during most part of the south-west monsoon. A more pragmatic and a suitable entrance channel orientation and protection is therefore required for a better functioning harbour and to allow maximum safety for vessels. As a result, it has been decided to fill the existing entrance channel up to -1.0 metres at Mean Sea Level (MSL) and construct a breakwater across, which will completely block the existing entrance channel. Secondly, a new entrance channel will be dredged that is oriented towards the south rather than south-west. Thirdly, a new breakwater of length 68 metres will be constructed to protect the entrance channel which is expected to protect the harbour basin and bring a sustainable solution to the ongoing difficulties faced in the harbour. It is estimated that the filling of the existing entrance channel to -1.0 metres from Mean Sea Level (MSL) will require 3300 cubic metres (cbm). Estimated volume from the dredging of the new entrance channel is estimated to be 7700 cbm. An additional 1552 cbm will be obtained from maintenance dredging from inside the harbour. All excess dredge dredged material will be stockpiled in the island for future use. This project is expected to ease many of the challenges faced by the islanders, especially for the vessel owners, as safe entry and exit as well as calm mooring conditions will be guaranteed inside the harbour. Presently, the design and orientation of the entrance channel of the harbour is causing lot of difficulties for end users. Despite these advantages, there are also some concerning issues such as how the new orientation of the entrance channel would affect the ease of manoeuvrability of boats along the entrance channel. There is also the concern of harbour basin water quality resulting from stagnation of water due to excessive protection that may not facilitate the adequate water movement. A detail environmental and social assessment was undertaken for this project and the findings are reported in this EIA. This EIA has been prepared to assess the social and environmental impacts of this project. Although this is not a completely new development, significant negative impacts on the marine environment will be felt through permanent habited modification and direct destruction of the marine environment. Similarly, the coral reef will be directly and indirectly impacted from this project. At the same time, the socio-economic impacts of the project will be significantly felt on a very larger group, and not necessarily the islanders only. There will be significant marine environmental impacts of this project due to dredging and associated marine environment works proposed. In such projects, environmental damage cannot be avoided and hence the goal should be to undertake the works in the least damaging manner. As the marine environment will be affected, careful implementation of mitigation measures and adopting methods which minimizes damage will be key for this project. Most of these measures are best practice guidelines and protocols that does not require a lot of financial input to implement. In view of the assessment, the environmental damages to marine resources have been considered significant due to the nature of the project. The impacts are likely to be felt on an estimated 12% of the reef, mostly along the western side. These environmental impacts were assessed for both construction and operation phase of the project and the majority of the negative impacts will be felt during the construction stage. However significant these negative impacts are, they should be compared and assessed with the socioeconomic benefits gained through this upgrading works. As a result, a comprehensive monitoring component has been suggested which takes in to consideration, the most important elements that require regular monitoring. This monitoring component will be adhered and will allow the assessment of long term changes resulting from the project. One of the important monitoring aspects will be the socioeconomic impacts. To monitor the success of this project, socio-economic factors such as vessel safety and harbour safety factors have been included as part of the monitoring process. Stakeholder consultations were held with various groups, including the island council and the client in order to incorporate the socio-economic components in the project. Stakeholders, most importantly the island community represented by the Island council was the most significant as they have the maximum knowledge and experience from the daily difficulties faced due to the present design of the harbour entrance channel. Apart from this, the council receives complains from boat owners and others on a daily basis with regard to the conditions prevailing in the harbour and how difficult it is to manoeuvre. During the formulation and also during the EIA preparation stage, consultations were undertaken with the Island Council to incorporate their inputs and comments. The upgrading of the harbour infrastructure in Bilehdhoo will have significant negative environmental impacts to the island environment, most of which will be felt on the marine environment. The project takes place in an environment that has been modified or damaged during the harbour construction. However, the social impacts of this project will be significant and will benefit the community as well as to everyone who uses the harbour, be it locals or from other regions.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment : B. Thulhaadhoo harbour rehabilitation project
(2014-10) Water Solutions
This report discusses the findings of an environmental impact study undertaken by Water Solutions Pvt. Ltd. at the request of Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure for the proposed harbour rehabilitation project at B. Thulhaadhoo. B. Thulhaadhoo is located southern side of Baa Atoll. The island economy depends mainly on fisheries and tourism related works. Thulhaadhoo is famous for lacquer works. The existing harbour at the island is the borrow site for the previous reclamation project. There is a concrete quay wall constructed on the land side and rock boulder revetment on both sides of the harbour. There is no breakwater in the harbour. Hence the proposed project is to construct a 545 m breakwater in the harbour. Land side quay walls will not be replaced under this project. However new quay walls will be built on both east and west side of the harbour replacing the revetments there. In addition to this, entrance channel will be deepened. The dredged material from this project will be used to reclaim the area that adjoins the side quay walls and land. Approximately 26,100.95 cbm material will be produced during this project. Environmental impacts of the project were assessed. The impacts of the project result mainly from excavation of the entrance channel and disposal of excavated materials. The impact of excavation would be that of sedimentation. This impact is considered to be minor and short-term. The impact of breakwater construction is it will damage lagoon bottom area where the breakwater will be placed. This will be a long term impact. The socio-economic benefits of the project may be considered to outweigh the negative impacts of the project on the physical environment of the island especially increasing the usable space on the quay wall, mooring area at the island’s harbour and additional land that would be available to develop fish processing industry. The proposed project conforms to prevalent environmental legislation and thrives to achieve its objectives in an environmentally friendly manner. Mitigation measures for these anticipated impacts have been identified and outlined in detail, including sedimentation and stagnation control methods and measures for minimizing negative effects demolition of the quay wall and the generation of construction waste. These mitigation measures need to be followed in order to minimize environmental damage. The details of the project have been established after considering the needs and requirements of the community by assessing and incorporating the outcomes from the community consultations held during the data collection stage. The EIA also allowed to explore the best possible alternatives for the proposed development and identified key mitigation strategies. Alternative locations and alternative designs have been investigated for the different components of the project. However, the present project design seems to be a feasible option in terms of costs, durability and safety. An environmental management plan with environmental monitoring plan has been developed including important elements that require regular checks. This monitoring component will be adhered to and will allow the assessment of changes due to construction of the harbour. Although the project involves inevitable negative environmental impacts, such impacts are not severe as to not undertake the project. The project is justifiable in light of the socioeconomic conditions and anticipated benefits resulting from the project, which seem to outweigh the negative environmental impacts.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment : design and project management of the construction of bridges, channels, harbours and shore protection works at Hulhumale’ phase 2
(2018-01) Water Solutions
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment : L. Dhabidhoo harbor development project
(2012-12) Water Solutions
This report discusses the findings of a social and environmental impact study undertaken by Water Solutions Pvt. Ltd. at the request of Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure for the proposed harbour rehabilitation project at L. Dhanbidhoo. L. Dhanbidhoo is located on the northern rim of Laamu Atoll and has a population of 800. The island economy depends mainly on agriculture. The existing harbour at the island was constructed in 90’s. The quay wall was constructed using corals. The quay wall had been badly damaged and the harbour has become too small to cater the large and deep draft vessels which call to the harbour. Hence the proposed project is to develop the existing harbour which can cater the growing demand for the vessels which will be using the islands for the next 15 years. The proposed harbour development project includes, construction of 197 m of quay on eastern, southern and northern side of the harbour using L blocks, deepening the harbour basin to – 3 at mean sea level, development of a harbour basin by 137 m long and 78 m wide, construction of 150 m rock boulder breakwater using dredged material as the core material. The project also includes deepening of the three access channels to a depth of – 3m at MSL. As part of the project, market lights would be place at the entrance channels. The excavation work of the project is expected to generate around 34,900 m3 of dredged materials of which 6,000 m3 is expected to be used as core materials of the breakwater, 12,000 m3 as back filling at the quay walls and 16,900 m3 to replenish the area of the beach on southern end of the harbour. 60 m long revetment would be constructed north and south of the harbour to protect the harbour from erosion. Environmental and socioeconomic impacts of the project were assessed. The impacts of the project result mainly from excavation of the harbour basin and entrance channel and disposal of excavated materials. The impact of excavation would be that of sedimentation. This impact is considered to be minor and short-term. Re-excavation of the entrance channels and harbour basin would have irreversible impacts. The project would help to address the current erosion problem by replenishing the eroding beach with the materials borrowed from the harbour basin. The socio-economic benefits of the project may be considered to outweigh the negative impacts of the project on the physical environment of the island especially increasing the usable space on the quay wall, mooring area at the island’s harbour and additional land that would be available to develop fish processing industry. The proposed project conforms to prevalent environmental legislation and thrives to achieve its objectives in an environmentally friendly manner. Mitigation measures for these anticipated impacts have been identified and outlined in detail, including sedimentation and stagnation control methods and measures for minimizing negative effects demolition of the quay wall and the generation of construction waste. These mitigation measures need to be followed in order to minimize environmental damage. The details of the project have been established after considering the needs and requirements of the community by assessing and incorporating the outcomes from the community consultations held during the data collection stage. The EIA also allowed to explore alternatives for the proposed development and identified key mitigation strategies. Alternative locations and alternative designs have been investigated for the different components of the project. However, the present project design seems to be a feasible option in terms of costs, durability and safety. An environmental management plan with environmental monitoring plan has been developed including important elements that require regular checks. This monitoring component will be adhered to and will allow the assessment of changes due to construction of the harbour. Although the project involves inevitable negative environmental impacts, such impacts are not severe as to not undertake the project. The project is justifiable in light of the socioeconomic conditions and anticipated benefits resulting from the project, which seem to outweigh the negative environmental impacts.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment : proposed Extension in East cost of Male’
(2017-03-01) Water Solutions
This report discusses the findings of an environmental impact study undertaken by Water Solutions Pvt. Ltd at the request of Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure. This EIA report covers extension of Male’ East Coast redevelopment proposed by the Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure. An Environmental Impact Assessment is necessary for the project as the coastal modification works fall under the ‘Jadhuvalu R’ of the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations 2012 of the Maldives. The project is located in the capital city of Male’. The east coastline of the island will be utilized for the development. Area adjacent to the Alimas Carnival site will be used as a temporary construction site. The proposed east coast extension project for Male’ includes the construction of a rock boulder breakwater on north eastern side of the Male’. The rock boulder breakwater would be build outside the existing seawall. The project has been proposed to address the current flooding issues caused due to overtopping of the existing seawall. The seawall also produce an extensive amount of sea salt in the area due to sea salt spray. Coastal protection would be build using rock boulders. The EIA was undertaken to assess the environmental impacts of the proposed extension of Male’ East Coast project. Based on the assessment, it has been identified that the major impacts of the project will be felt on the marine environment during the construction stage. During mobilisation, the rock boulders for the breakwater would be unloaded to the site from north eastern side. A temporary sand bund would be created for the barge to dock and unload its rocks using excavators. The breakwater construction would be carried out by first construction of a temporary sand bund as a working platform for the excavators to work on the construction of the breakwater. These activities is expected to cause significant impact on the marine environment. Since 2002, Concerns were raised around stability of reef slope around Male’ following collapse of a section of Male’ reef in 2002 on the NE corner of the island, in front of the present Hulhumale’Ferry Terminal. The cause of the failure was largely attributed to a solid jetty build from concrete in the affected area. Due to this failure numbers of new cracks are developed in the various parts of the reef flat and the reef slope. Some of these cracks extend 20-30 m into the slope. The proposed project includes construction of a rock boulder breakwater which would increase the dead loading onto the reef flat and increase the stress on the reef slope of Male’. The mitigation measures are provided in the report with alternatives. It is vital to conduct the activities, during both project planning and construction phase, in line with mitigation measures emphasized in the report. Socio-economic impacts of the proposed project will be reducing the flooding on area due to high waves overtopping the coastal protection structures. The project would also help to reduction of salt sprays and hence improve the durability of structures and equipment from corrosion. Alternatives have been proposed for the proposed breakwater as part of the Male’ east coast extension project. Given the limited knowledge on reef slope stability in the area and past known reef slope failures at the site and around Male‟ related heavy loading on reef, a cautious approach should be adapted. Therefore it is recommended not to construct the temporary bed onto the reef top but to use geo bags and to to take all practical measures to during construction to avoid reef slope failure. Towards the end of the report, a monitoring programme has been suggested which covers components of coastal and marine environment. It is important to follow this monitoring programme not only to comply with the regulation but also to ensure that the impacts are measures in realistic terms.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment : the flood mitigation project at Feydhoo, Addu city
(2018-01) Water Solutions
This report discusses the findings of an environmental impact study undertaken by Water Solutions Pvt. Ltd. at the request of Ministry of Environment and Energy. This EIA report covers the storm water management project at Feydhoo of Addu City in Maldives. This project would be undertaken on all the flood vulnerable roads of Feydhoo with a total length of more than 5 kilo metres. Feydhoo is one of the islands that is very vulnerable to floods and past such events has caused damages and losses to properties and wellbeing of the people. Due this the government has selected Feydhoo to undertake the flood mitigation project which will be implemented by the Ministry of Environment and Energy and later the operation and maintenance will be handed over to one of the state owned utility company such as FENAKA or MRDC. The proposed project would help to improve the living condition of the island and facilitate the development of the island. The environmental impacts have been assessed and the proposed storm water management system and associated work of the project has been assessed. The storm water management system development and associated work of the project would have some irreversible impacts on the island of Feydhoo. The impacts of the project results mainly from dust, noise, backfilling and levelling of the road surface at the island. There is no requirement for backfilling materials as the excavated material will be adequate and a sand burrow area is not required. The implementation of the project would have socio-economic benefits not only to the Feydhoo Island, but as whole to the group of islands in the city. The socio-economic benefit outweighs far more than the negative impacts of the project on the physical environment of the Feydhoo. Mitigation measures for these anticipated impacts have been identified and outlined in detail, including measures for minimizing negative effects of generation of waste. These mitigation measures will have to be followed in order to minimize environmental damage. The details of the project have been established based on the concept design, detailed design and the land use plan that had been developed for Feydhoo. Alternative designs and technologies have been investigated for the different components of the project. However, the present project design seems to be a feasible option in terms of costs, durability and safety. An environmental management plan with environmental monitoring has been developed including the most important elements that require regular checks. This monitoring component need to adhere to and would allow assessing the changes to the island environment due to the road development project. Although the project involves inevitable negative environmental impacts, such impacts are predicted to be not severe as to not undertake the project in accordance with the concept plan developed for the island. The project is justifiable in light of the socio-economic conditions and anticipated benefits resulting from the project, which seem to outweigh the negative environmental impacts.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment : the ring road development project at Fuvahmulah City
(2017-02-01) Water Solutions
This report discusses the findings of a environmental impact study undertaken by Water Solutions Pvt. Ltd. at the request of Maldives Road Development Cooperation for Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure. This EIA report covers ring road development project at Fuvahmulah City. This project would undertake total length of the roads that would be 2.9 km. Fuvahmulah City is one of the islands in a group of islands that government has selected to undertake the road project implemented by Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure. Road Development project is implemented at islands where there is a huge demand for residential and commercial land. The proposed project would help to improve the living condition of the Fuvahmulah City and facilitate the development at the City. Environmental and socioeconomic impacts of the project were assessed. The road developed and associated work with the project would have significant impacts on the island of Fuvahmulah. The impacts of the project result mainly from vegetation removal which falls on the boundary of the proposed road, levelling of the ground for the road construction. The impact of the levelling would be on the natural profile of the island which might have an impact on the drainage of flood water created after a storm. This impact is considered to be medium to long term. The implementation of the project and paving the road surface would have socio-economic benefits to the Fuvahmulah City and the southern region of the Maldives. The socio-economic benefit outweighs the negative impacts of the project on the physical environment of the Fuvahmulah City. Mitigation measures for these anticipated impacts have been identified and outlined in detail, including removal and management of green waste, construction waste. These mitigation measures will have to be followed in order to minimize environmental damage. The details of the project have been established based on the landuse plan that had been developed for Fuvahmulah City and have given consideration to the existing flooding issue at the island. Alternative designs and technologies have been investigated for the different components of the project. However, the present project design seems to be a feasible option in terms of costs, durability and safety. An environmental management plan with environmental monitoring has been developed including the most important elements that require regular checks. This monitoring component need to adhere to and would allow assessing the changes due to the road development project. Although the project involves inevitable negative environmental impacts, such impacts are predicted to be not severe as to not undertake the project in accordance with the landuse plan developed for the island. The project is justifiable in light of the socio-economic conditions and anticipated benefits resulting from the project, which seem to outweigh the negative environmental impacts.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for dredging of a swimming area at Kurendhoo island, Lhaviyani Atoll, Maldives
(2017-02-01) Water Solutions
This report discusses the findings of social and environmental impact study undertaken by Water Solutions Pvt. Ltd. at the request of Lh. Kurendhoo island council for the proposed swimming area development project at Kurendhoo. Kurendhoo with a total land area of about 20.9 hectares is located at 5°20'0.46"N and 73°27'49.19"E. The island has a population of 1230. This project includes dredging of 525m2 area of island lagoon from southwest side to a depth of 1.5 to 2 meters using an excavator. It is estimated that 800 cbm of sand will be dredged from this project. The dredge spoil generated from the project will be stockpiled on the island for later use. Environmental and socioeconomic impacts of the project were assessed. The impacts of the project result mainly from excavation of the lagoon basin of the area that had not been excavated. The impact of excavation would be that of sedimentation. It is recommended to finish the work as soon as possible to reduce the impact duration as the project involves excavating of a very small area. The project would help to address the current problem of lacking a safe swimming area in the island. The socio-economic benefits of the project may be considered to outweigh the negative impacts of the project on the physical environment of the island. Mitigation measures for these anticipated impacts have been identified and outlined in detail, including sedimentation control methods and measures for minimizing negative impacts of project activities. These mitigation measures need to be followed in order to minimize environmental damage. The EIA also allowed to explore the best possible alternatives for the proposed development and identified key mitigation strategies. Alternative locations and methodology have been investigated for this project. However, the present project design seems to be a feasible option in terms of costs and safety. An environmental management plan with environmental monitoring plan has been developed including important elements that require regular checks. This monitoring component will be adhered to and will allow the assessment of changes due to this project. Although the project involves negative environmental impacts, such impacts are not severe as not to go ahead with this project. The project is justifiable in light of the socio-economic conditions and anticipated benefits resulting from the project, which seem to outweigh the negative environmental impacts.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for proposed redevelopment development of Kudahithi Island Resort, North Male’ Atoll, Maldives
(2010-06-01) Water Solutions
This report discusses the findings of an environmental impact study undertaken by Water Solutions Pvt. Ltd. upon request from Sun Land Pvt. Ltd in order to fulfill obligatory requirements of the National Environment Protection and Preservation Act, Law No. 4/93 for the redevelopment of Kudahithi island resort in Male’ Atoll, Maldives. This project is proposed by Sunland Hotels to develop; A Master Residence, 2 support Bungalows, Main Pavilion, staff centre, service centre, mosque, desalinated water storage tanks, fuel storage tanks and undertake coastal protection and beach nourishment to replenish the lost beach at the island as part of the redevelopment project. The project also requires demolishing the existing buildings on land and the removal of the columns that had been placed in the water. These facilities will be developed in such that it blends with the natural setting of the island without disturbing the island’s natural setting. All buildings and walkways are planned to avoid disrupting major trees to the greatest extent possible to ensure conservation of trees. Walking tracks are made as narrow as possible in order to minimize the impacts on the island vegetation. Buildings on the coastal zone are planned as such that the natural hydrodynamics of the coastal zone is not affected. This report has identified that the impacts of the project will be felt on the terrestrial environment as almost all the new structures proposed will be on land. The impact on the marine environment will be felt through the coastal protection and beach nourishment component and the removal of the columns that had been placed in the lagoon. The direct impact on the marine environment would be the sedimentation and siltation caused by the construction activities in the lagoon during the construction period. Baseline data has, therefore, been collected in order to monitor the changes to the marine environment which need to be identified in periodical monitoring reports. The most significant impact will be felt on the lagoon bottom. Other impacts during the construction period are impacts related to construction waste, dust emission and impacts related to temporary workforce. Operational impacts are expected to be related to energy generation, water production and solid waste and wastewater generation. Details of these impacts are discussed in the relevant sections. The mitigation plan has identified appropriate measures to minimize the identified impacts from the proposed redevelopment at the island of Kudahithi. These measures reflect the general aspects of the construction phase for the resort that involves both land and marine based development activities. Important measures that will be undertaken to minimize the damage on the ecosystem include, better pre-planning during the construction stage and minimizing cutting of trees during construction stage, especially young trees among other measures. The conceptual design of the resort has already been planned so as to minimize the amount of trees that will be cut or removed. In the operation phase, the emphasis will be to minimize the impact due to operation and guest activities on to the environment. An Environmental Management Plan for the operation need to be developed to integrate environment protection and conservation into the operation of the island. In the operation stage of the development, staff awareness programmes could be in place and activities to increase the environmental awareness to the guest and to minimize the environmental impact due to the tourist activities will be undertaken. Alternatives to the project have also been considered and several alternatives to the proposed project were considered, including alternative methods for construction and alternative locations. The advantages and disadvantages of these alternatives have been discussed. Towards, the end of the report, a monitoring programme has been suggested which mainly covers the marine environment. These include coral cover and marine water quality among many other parameters. As the impacts are felt on the marine environment, it is important to undertake this monitoring.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for road development project at R. Dhuvaafaru
(2016-10) Water Solutions
This report discusses the findings of a social and environmental impact study undertaken by Water Solutions Pvt. Ltd. at the request of Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure. This EIA report covers road development project at Dhuvaafaru, Raa Atoll. This project would undertake total length of the roads that would be 3.2 km. The roads will be built with pavements on either side of the roads on wider roads. A pavement will be one side on narrower roads. The pavements would have 3 service ducts which can be used for provision of the utility services to the island. The surface of the pavements will be of precast concrete blocks and driving surface would be of asphalt. Drainage areas are provided between pavement and driving surface and provision for tree planting is given on regular intervals. Dhuvaafaru is one of the islands in a group of islands that government has selected to undertake the road project implemented by Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure. Dhuvaafaru is the most populated island in Raa Atoll. After the 2004 Tsunami R. Kandholhudhoo people was relocated to Dhuvaafaru in 2008. Road Development project is implemented at islands where there is a huge demand for residential and commercial land. The proposed project would help to improve the living condition of the island and facilitate the focus island development at the selected island. Environmental and socioeconomic impacts of the project were assessed. The road developed and associated work with the project would have significant impacts on the island of Dhuvaafaru. The impacts of the project result mainly from vegetation removal and excavation of the harbour basin and beaching area to borrow the backfill material to level the road surface and levelling work carried out at the roads. The impact of the excavation activities would be of sedimentation. This impact is considered to be minor and short-term. The implementation of the project and paving the road surface would have socio-economic benefits to the island. The socio-economic benefit outweighs the negative impacts of the project on the physical environment of the Dhuvaafaru. Mitigation measures for these anticipated impacts have been identified and outlined in detail, including sedimentation control methods and measures for minimizing negative effects of generation of waste. These mitigation measures will have to be followed in order to minimize environmental damage. The details of the project have been established based on the landuse plan that had been developed for Dhuvaafaru. Alternative designs and technologies have been investigated for the different components of the project. However, the present project design seems to be a feasible option in terms of costs, durability and safety. An environmental management plan with environmental monitoring has been developed including the most important elements that require regular checks. This monitoring component need to adhere to and would allow assessing the changes due to the road development project. Although the project involves inevitable negative environmental impacts, such impacts are predicted to be not severe as to not undertake the project in accordance with the landuse plan developed for the island. The project is justifiable in light of the socio-economic conditions and anticipated benefits resulting from the project, which seem to outweigh the negative environmental impacts.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for the coastal protection project at Coco Palm Boduhithi Island Resort
(2012-07) Water Solutions
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for the coastal protection project at Hoarafushi in Haa Alifu Atoll
(2017-02-01) Water Solutions
This report addresses environmental concerns of the proposed change to the current ongoing shore-protection Project at Hoarafushi Island. The EIA of the project was submitted in December 2016 to EPA and EIA approval was issued to undertake this project on 4th April 2016 from EPA; Ref: 203-EIARES/438/2016/59. Presently the project is ongoing and changes to the borrow location has been proposed by the proponent to expedite the project and complete on time. The initial proposal had the borrow site to obtain backfilling sand on the northern side of the island’s lagoon. However, due to operational and practical difficulties, dredging (using excavators) is logistically and practically difficult due to the sites exposure to strong currents and waves throughout most part of the year. Initial attempts were made to borrow from the north side, but due to many challenges and difficulties, it was decided to change the borrow area, as it was getting too costly and difficult to manage the process. The proponent therefore proposes to change the borrow location to the south-west side as indicated in the project description section. All other methods remain the same including dredging methodology and machinery. The new borrow site will be located within 500 metres from the project site as per the EIA regulation 2012. Although the only proposed change is the location, there is a significant change to the predicted environmental impacts during the initial EIA process. The most significant of which is the loss of sea grass beds and dispersal of sediments to the western side coral reef and lagoon. The changes will also bring hydrodynamic modifications, especially the movement of currents and the absorption potential of wave energy. Compared to the previously proposed area for borrowing, the present location will have more negative environmental impacts. As identified in the EIA process, during dredging, there will be sedimentation in the area. In addition, due to the relative protected state of the western side, sediment dispersal may not spread to a very large area and stagnate for a relatively longer time than usual. However, due to strong currents along the southern tip of the island, any sediments caught or moving southern areas will dissipate sediments to a greater geographical footprint. Lastly but not least, part of the sea grass beds will be destroyed permanently. Due to the change in the borrow location, the negative impacts predicted for the proposed changes and mitigation measures have been identified in the report. The first EIA addendum to the EIA of proposed shore protection at Hoarafushi, Haa Alifu Atoll. Page 14 Environmental impacts were assessed for both the construction and operation phase of the project. The main constructional impact is the direct destruction of the lagoon, sea grass beds and the bottom substrate. In terms of sedimentation the impacts will be high. The socio-economic impacts of the project are expected to be positive as completing the project early would save cost and bring a variety of indirect positive impacts. In addition, the project will allow a reasonably deep lagoon on the western side for smaller boats to move around where they could be moored safely. However, this is a debatable issue as the dredging is not necessarily undertaken to allow safe maneuvering of boats along the western side. Small boats will definitely benefit from this change, but not the big vessels. Hence, this benefit will be mostly felt on the owners of small boats and vessels in the island. This is a good example of a project where unnecessary environmental damage could have been minimized if the EIA assessment was undertaken thoroughly. During the initial EIA, the advantages and disadvantages of the first borrow areas should have been studied more thoroughly, not only physically but through community consultations as well. As the EIA report outlines a comprehensive monitoring protocol to capture the areas of concern in the present project itself, this monitoring report will be followed. For the project components that are changing, stakeholder consultations were also undertaken with the contractor and the island council as indicated in the TOR.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for the construction and implementation of a pump station and sewerage outfall in Hulhumale’
(2010-11-01) Water Solutions
This report discusses the findings of an environmental impact assessment study undertaken by Water Solutions Pvt. Ltd. upon request from Male’ Water and Sewerage Company Pvt. Ltd. (MWSC), hereafter referred to as ‘client’. The project involves the construction and implementation of an additional sewerage outfall and a pump station in Hulhumale’ and is the first phase of a sewer network for the Industrial area in Hulhumale’. The only existing sewerage outfall currently available has reached its maximum capacity. After the location approval for the sewerage outfall, the rest of the sewerage network will be planned. This EIA has been prepared to assess the social and environmental impacts of the sewage outfall pipe and the pump station. The major findings of this report are based on extensive literature review, experiences gained from similar field inspections and qualitative and quantitative assessments undertaken during site visits on 16th September, 6th October, 7th October and 17th October 2010. There, seawater and groundwater samples were taken, study sites were photographed and lagoon and reef studies were undertaken. Long term data were collected from available sources, such as long term data on meteorology and climate from global databases. Potential positive and negative impacts on the environment have been considered. During the construction phase, impacts are likely to be felt most intensively localized on the marine benthos in the lagoon and on reef slope in the form of suspension of sediments and generation of coral rubble while positioning the pipe and its anchor blocks. During operation, on the other hand, the impact of raw sewerage is expected to be felt in the marine environment for as long as sewage is discharged raw; however, monitoring is important to determine to which extent the environment will be harmed. The health of Hulhumale’ citizens and visitors using the eastern beach is of great concern in relation to a sewage outfall. Studying previous reports, we found an inconsistency of seawater quality results indicating contamination of the shallow recreational waters. Due to the unavailability of tests for Enterococci in the Maldives at this time, we were unable to determine whether contamination originates from the existing outfall or from the shedding of bathers and garbage disposed on the beach. A large‐scale study to determine the dispersion and impact of sewage is strongly recommended in order to ensure safe swimming conditions for the public. Based on impacts identified, appropriate mitigation plan and measures have been outlined. These measures reflect all aspects of the construction and the operational phases. Important measures that will be undertaken to minimize the damage on the environment include better pre‐planning during the construction phase and proper maintenance of the system during the operational phase among other measures. Alternative to the proposed project have also been discussed and examined, one of which is the implementation of sewage treatment for the future of Hulhumale’. This EIA has been produced in accordance with the EIA Regulations 2007, issued by the (former) Ministry of Environment, Energy and Water (now: Ministry of Housing and Environment) on preparing Environmental Impact Assessment studies.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for the construction and setup of a sewerage system in Baarah Island, Haa Alif Atoll, Maldives
(2017-09) Water Solutions
This report discusses the findings of an environmental impact study undertaken by Water Solutions Pvt. Ltd in order to fulfill obligatory requirements of the National Environment Protection and Preservation Act, Law No. 4/93 for the proposed setup of the sewerage system (hereafter referred to as the project) in Baarah island, Haa Alifu Atoll, Maldives. The purpose of this EIA is to identify and minimize potential adverse environmental impacts related to this project and enhance the overall quality of the project. By examining the project location, the legal framework and the existing environmental components such as marine ecology and the socio-economic aspects, this EIA provides useful information regarding the extent, nature and the magnitude of impacts that are likely to occur. The EIA will also help to identify the long term socio-economic benefits to the community after implementing this project. It also provides a framework for future monitoring of the environment, so that changes can be monitored and corrective measures can be undertaken. The proposed project aims to establish a sewerage collection and disposal system in the island of Baarah in Haa Alifu Atoll. The concept designed for Barrah is a gravity type wastewater collection and disposal system. The existing systems are mainly based on septic tanks and small bore sewers. Without proper maintenance these systems are prone to damage and contamination of groundwater can occur. The contamination of the groundwater has occurred to the extent that it cannot be utilized for any potable use. Therefore, the current setup is not environmentally acceptable nor suitable. The sewerage system for Ha. Baarah will be a gravity sewerage system where sloping pipelines will allow waste water from the entire island to flow to three zonal pumping stations. The sewage will be pumped from the pumping station to the treatment plant where it will be treated and discharged via a sea outfall pipeline into the sea. The sewerage system will comprise of elements of a given specification for sewer mains, cleanouts, manholes, vents, pump stations, outfall pipeline and diffuser that will ensure a 30 year design flow The sewerage system therefore comprises of the following components: a) Household inspection chambers. b) A gravity sewerage reticulation network. c) Reticulation pumping stations and pressure main system. d) Construction of a sea outfall to discharge the sewage into deep sea. The proposed project will ensure that the groundwater of the island does not get contaminated through improper sanitation systems. It will also ensure that the surrounding marine environment will improve in terms of environmental quality and will ensure pollution from sewage does not occur on the near shore environments. The project is expected to bring several positive impacts on the environmental quality of the island and the surrounding reef. Particularly, the most significant benefit would be achieved through improvement in the bacteriological quality of the groundwater. The health benefits of the project are worthy of noting as the improvement in water quality are going to bring significant health benefits to the community. Environmental & social impacts and the mitigation measures Several environmental impacts of this proposed project have been examined through a number of processes. These include consultations with the project development team, field surveys, observations and assessment, and field experience gained from similar development projects implemented throughout the country. Potential positive and negative impacts on the environment have been considered. The assessment indicates environmental impacts, both during the construction and operation stage. During the construction period, impacts are likely to occur on the marine and terrestrial environment (groundwater). Most of the impacts during the construction period are impacts related to construction waste, dewatering, disruptions to the local traffic, dust emission, damage to the reef during sea outfall construction and noise. During the operational stage of this project, there will be both positive and negative impacts. Positive impacts include the improvement of the ground water quality of the island. Negative impacts include the increased in extraction of groundwater for toilet flushing that may increase the chances of groundwater salinization at a much accelerated rate. This project does foresee some negative impacts even during the construction stage but is geared towards improving the overall environmental quality of the island, most notably the environmental health. The project is presently planned to lay the sewer pipeline along the centre of the exiting road. During this process, dewatering and construction pose some challenges. Previous experience of sewer construction in the Maldives has indicated that excavation depths more than 3.5m are not recommended for conventional dewatering methods to avoid the risk of undermining and trench collapses as well as loss of structural integrity of the surrounding earth. For the purpose of the Baarah design, the maximum depth of excavation will not exceed 3.5m as per the Design criteria and technical specifications for conventional gravity sewerage systems guideline released by the Water and Sanitation Unit of the Environmental Protection Agency (Environmental Protection Agency, 2015). Strict reference to these criteria will be followed and necessary as the streets are very narrow and congested, leaving limited space for mechanical excavation between buildings for the installation of pipelines. The lack of an established land use plan for the island is also a draw back for Baarah. No land used plan means that future projections rely solely on population statistics rather than the land physically available for future development. The present design is based solely on the existing populated area, centrally located in the island. There are large areas of the island undeveloped and unzoned due to lack of a land use plan. Large areas of the island are used for agriculture and pilot projects have been established with aid agencies to try new agricultural technologies. The island is a potential hot spot for future tourism development due to the vase natural resources (beach, mangroves and thick forests and plenty of land). Different types of developments such as guesthouses and restaurants may require grease traps to prevent large influxes of unwanted material into the sewerage network. Therefore the present design of the system has not considered these future developments and in the event of such developments, the existing system will require upgrading. Requirements may need to be specified at a policy level to counter this issue. Therefore this is a potential risk factor in this project. Despite these shortcomings the project does not pose serious threats to the natural environment (marine and terrestrial) and will directly benefit the environment and the community, both in the short and long term. Minor negative impacts with varying significance will occur as the project is implemented. They include dewatering and localized salinization, disruption to public transport, dust emissions during pipe laying work and reef damage during the process of outfall construction. The pump stations have not been placed around the periphery of the island, instead are located within the population zone. This could pose the issue of foul odour in the event of a system failure whereby the foul odour abatement mechanism is affected. Incorporating the pump stations in the populated areas is a necessity and this design factor will enhance the functioning of the overall system. The project will benefit the community and the island in the long term. It is important to ensure that the project implementation is carried in a sustainable manner and in such the sewerage system can be maintained in a cost effective manner as and when required. It is therefore in the opinion of the consultant that the project does not foresee significant negative environmental impacts and should be allowed. Although the project will benefit the community, the proposed design has a number of disadvantages. Construction of pump stations underground on the streets is seen as a design issue that could have operational difficulties. Instead, the pump stations could be located within the residential block boundary with a small plot of land allocated for the pump station. Selection of sites can be focused on places such as mosque, symmetry and from other public buildings or plots of land. With the present design, a number of operational difficulties are anticipated. Experience from similar systems setup elsewhere in the Maldives have been studied and reviewed for this project. The reviews and experiences from these systems are not infavour of the present design and this is something that needs to be considered before undertaking the project. Sanitation systems must be both environmentally and socially friendly and acceptable. As important as the design is the operation and maintenance. Operation and maintenance should be viewed as a key sustainable aspect of similar projects. No matter how good a design is, the sustainability and acceptability will depend on how good the system functions in the operational period. With the pump stations being located on the road itself, there are a number of such difficulties which are equally as important as the engineering design aspects.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for the construction and setup of a sewerage system in Feeali Island, Faafu Atoll, Maldives
(2017-12) Water Solutions
This report discusses the findings of an environmental impact study undertaken by Water Solutions Pvt. Ltd in order to fulfil obligatory requirements of the National Environment Protection and Preservation Act, Law No. 4/93 for the proposed setup of the sewerage system (hereafter referred to as the project) in Feeali island, Faafu Atoll, Maldives. The purpose of this EIA is to identify and minimize potential adverse environmental impacts related to this project and enhance the overall quality of the project. By examining the project location, the legal framework and the existing environmental components such as marine ecology and the socio-economic aspects, this EIA provides useful information regarding the extent, nature and the magnitude of impacts that are likely to occur. The EIA will also help to identify the long term socio-economic benefits to the community after implementing this project. It also provides a framework for future monitoring of the environment, so that changes can be monitored and corrective measures can be undertaken. The proposed project aims to establish a sewerage collection and disposal system in the island of Feeali in Faafu Atoll. The concept designed for Feeali is a gravity type wastewater collection and disposal system. The existing systems are mainly based on septic tanks and small bore sewers. Without proper maintenance these systems are prone to damage and contamination of groundwater can occur. The contamination of the groundwater has occurred to the extent that it cannot be utilized for any potable use. Therefore, the current setup is not environmentally acceptable nor suitable. The sewerage system for F. Feeali will be a gravity sewerage system where sloping pipelines will allow waste water from the entire island to flow to two zonal pumping stations. The sewage will be pumped from the pumping station to the treatment plant where it will be treated and discharged via a sea outfall pipeline into the sea. The sewerage system will comprise of elements of a given specification for sewer mains, cleanouts, manholes, vents, pump stations, outfall pipeline and diffuser that will ensure a 30 year design flow. The sewerage system therefore comprises of the following components: a) Household inspection chambers. b) A gravity sewerage reticulation network. c) Reticulation pumping stations and pressure main system. d) Construction of a sea outfall to discharge the sewage into deep sea. The proposed project will ensure that the groundwater of the island does not get contaminated through improper sanitation systems. It will also ensure that the surrounding marine environment will improve in terms of environmental quality and will ensure pollution from sewage does not occur on the near shore environments. The project is expected to bring several positive impacts on the environmental quality of the island and the surrounding reef. Particularly, the most significant benefit would be achieved through improvement in the bacteriological quality of the groundwater. The health benefits of the project are worthy of noting as the improvement in water quality are going to bring significant health benefits to the community. Environmental & social impacts and the mitigation measures Several environmental impacts of this proposed project have been examined through a number of processes. These include consultations with the project development team, field surveys, observations and assessment, and field experience gained from similar development projects implemented throughout the country. Potential positive and negative impacts on the environment have been considered. The assessment indicates environmental impacts, both during the construction and operation stage. During the construction period, impacts are likely to occur on the marine and terrestrial environment (groundwater). Most of the impacts during the construction period are impacts related to construction waste, dewatering, disruptions to the local traffic, dust emission, damage to the reef during sea outfall construction and noise. During the operational stage of this project, there will be both positive and negative impacts. Positive impacts include the improvement of the ground water quality of the island. Negative impacts include the increased in extraction of groundwater for toilet flushing that may increase the chances of groundwater salinization at a much accelerated rate. This project does foresee some negative impacts even during the construction stage but is geared towards improving the overall environmental quality of the island, most notably the environmental health. The project is presently planned to lay the sewer pipeline along the centre of the exiting road. During this process, dewatering and construction pose some challenges. Previous experience of sewer construction in the Maldives has indicated that excavation depths more than 3.5m are not recommended for conventional dewatering methods to avoid the risk of undermining and trench collapses as well as loss of structural integrity of the surrounding earth. For the purpose of the Feeali design, the maximum depth of excavation will not exceed 3.5m as per the Design criteria and technical specifications for conventional gravity sewerage systems guideline released by the Water and Sanitation Unit of the Environmental Protection Agency (Environmental Protection Agency, 2015). Strict reference to these criteria will be followed and necessary as the streets are very narrow and congested, leaving limited space for mechanical excavation between buildings for the installation of pipelines. Despite these shortcomings, the project does not pose serious threats to the natural environment (marine and terrestrial) and will directly benefit the environment and the community, both in the short and long term. Minor negative impacts with varying significance will occur as the project is implemented. They include dewatering and localized salinization, disruption to public transport, dust emissions during pipe laying work and reef damage during the process of outfall construction. The pump stations have not been placed around the periphery of the island, instead are located within the population zone. This could pose the issue of foul odour in the event of a system failure whereby the foul odour abatement mechanism is affected. Incorporating the pump stations in the populated areas is a necessity and this design factor will enhance the functioning of the overall system. The project will benefit the community and the island in the long term. It is important to ensure that the project implementation is carried in a sustainable manner and in such the sewerage system can be maintained in a cost effective manner as and when required. It is therefore in the opinion of the consultant that the project does not foresee significant negative environmental impacts and should be allowed. Although the project will benefit the community, the proposed design has a number of disadvantages. Construction of pump stations underground on the streets is seen as a design issue that could have operational difficulties. Instead, the pump stations could be located within the residential block boundary with a small plot of land allocated for the pump station. Selection of sites can be focused on places such as mosque, symmetry and from other public buildings or plots of land. With the present design, a number of operational difficulties are anticipated. Experience from similar systems setup elsewhere in the Maldives have been studied and reviewed for this project. The reviews and experiences from these systems are not infavour of the present design and this is something that needs to be considered before undertaking the project. Sanitation systems must be both environmentally and socially friendly and acceptable. As important as the design is the operation and maintenance. Operation and maintenance should be viewed as a key sustainable aspect of similar projects. No matter how good a design is, the sustainability and acceptability will depend on how good the system functions in the operational period. With the pump stations being located on the road itself, there are a number of such difficulties which are equally as important as the engineering design aspects.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for the construction and setup of a sewerage system in Hangnaameedhoo Island, Alif Dhaal Atoll, Maldives
(2017-11) Water Solutions
This report discusses the findings of an environmental impact study undertaken by Water Solutions Pvt. Ltd in order to fulfil obligatory requirements of the National Environment Protection and Preservation Act, Law No. 4/93 for the proposed setup of the sewerage system (hereafter referred to as the project) in Hangnaameedhoo island, Alifu Dhaalu Atoll, Maldives. The purpose of this EIA is to identify and minimize potential adverse environmental impacts related to this project and enhance the overall quality of the project. By examining the project location, the legal framework and the existing environmental components such as marine ecology and the socio-economic aspects, this EIA provides useful information regarding the extent, nature and the magnitude of impacts that are likely to occur. The EIA will also help to identify the long term socio-economic benefits to the community after implementing this project. It also provides a framework for future monitoring of the environment, so that changes can be monitored and corrective measures can be undertaken. The proposed project aims to establish a sewerage collection and disposal system in the island of Hangnaameedhoo island, Alifu Dhaalu Atoll. The concept designed for Hangnaameedhoo is a gravity type wastewater collection and disposal system. The existing systems are mainly based on septic tanks and small bore sewers. Without proper maintenance these systems are prone to damage and contamination of groundwater can occur. The contamination of the groundwater has occurred to the extent that it cannot be utilized for any potable use. Therefore, the current setup is not environmentally acceptable nor suitable. The sewerage system for A.Dh. Hangnaameedhoo will be a gravity sewerage system where sloping pipelines will allow waste water from the entire island to flow to two zonal pumping stations. The sewage will be pumped from the pumping station to the treatment plant where it will be treated and discharged via a sea outfall pipeline into the sea. The sewerage system will comprise of elements of a given specification for sewer mains, cleanouts, manholes, vents, pump stations, outfall pipeline and diffuser that will ensure a 30 year design flow. The sewerage system therefore comprises of the following components: a) Household inspection chambers. b) A gravity sewerage reticulation network. c) Reticulation pumping stations and pressure main system. d) Construction of a sea outfall to discharge the sewage into deep sea. The proposed project will ensure that the groundwater of the island does not get contaminated through improper sanitation systems. It will also ensure that the surrounding marine environment will improve in terms of environmental quality and will ensure pollution from sewage does not occur on the near shore environments. The project is expected to bring several positive impacts on the environmental quality of the island and the surrounding reef. Particularly, the most significant benefit would be achieved through improvement in the bacteriological quality of the groundwater. The health benefits of the project are worthy of noting as the improvement in water quality are going to bring significant health benefits to the community. Several environmental impacts of this proposed project have been examined through a number of processes. These include consultations with the project development team, field surveys, observations and assessment, and field experience gained from similar development projects implemented throughout the country. Potential positive and negative impacts on the environment have been considered. The assessment indicates environmental impacts, both during the construction and operation stage. During the construction period, impacts are likely to occur on the marine and terrestrial environment (groundwater). Most of the impacts during the construction period are impacts related to construction waste, dewatering, disruptions to the local traffic, dust emission, damage to the reef during sea outfall construction and noise. During the operational stage of this project, there will be both positive and negative impacts. Positive impacts include the improvement of the ground water quality of the island. Negative impacts include the increased in extraction of groundwater for toilet flushing that may increase the chances of groundwater salinization at a much accelerated rate. This project does foresee some negative impacts even during the construction stage but is geared towards improving the overall environmental quality of the island, most notably the environmental health. The project is presently planned to lay the sewer pipeline along the centre of the exiting road. During this process, dewatering and construction pose some challenges. Previous experience of sewer construction in the Maldives has indicated that excavation depths more than 3.5m are not recommended for conventional dewatering methods to avoid the risk of undermining and trench collapses as well as loss of structural integrity of the surrounding earth. For the purpose of the Hangnaameedhoo design, the maximum depth of excavation will not exceed 3.5m as per the Design criteria and technical specifications for conventional gravity sewerage systems guideline released by the Water and Sanitation Unit of the Environmental Protection Agency (Environmental Protection Agency, 2015). Strict reference to these criteria will be followed and necessary as the streets are very narrow and congested, leaving limited space for mechanical excavation between buildings for the installation of pipelines. The project does not pose serious threats to the natural environment (marine and terrestrial) and will directly benefit the environment and the community, both in the short and long term. Minor negative impacts with varying significance will occur as the project is implemented. They include dewatering and localized salinization, disruption to public transport, dust emissions during pipe laying work and reef damage during the process of outfall construction. The pump stations have not been placed around the periphery of the island, instead are located within the population zone. This could pose the issue of foul odour in the event of a system failure whereby the foul odour abatement mechanism is affected. Incorporating the pump stations in the populated areas is a necessity and this design factor will enhance the functioning of the overall system. The project will benefit the community and the island in the long term. It is important to ensure that the project implementation is carried in a sustainable manner and in such the sewerage system can be maintained in a cost effective manner as and when required. It is therefore in the opinion of the consultant that the project does not foresee significant negative environmental impacts and should be allowed. Although the project will benefit the community, the proposed design has a number of disadvantages. Construction of pump stations underground on the streets is seen as a design issue that could have operational difficulties. Instead, the pump stations could be located within the residential block boundary with a small plot of land allocated for the pump station. Selection of sites can be focused on places such as mosque, symmetry and from other public buildings or plots of land. With the present design, a number of operational difficulties are anticipated. Experience from similar systems setup elsewhere in the Maldives have been studied and reviewed for this project. The reviews and experiences from these systems are not in favour of the present design and this is something that needs to be considered before undertaking the project. Sanitation systems must be both environmentally and socially friendly and acceptable. As important as the design is the operation and maintenance. Operation and maintenance should be viewed as a key sustainable aspect of similar projects. No matter how good a design is, the sustainability and acceptability will depend on how good the system functions in the operational period. With the pump stations being located on the road itself, there are a number of such difficulties which are equally as important as the engineering design aspects.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for the construction and setup of a sewerage system in Kaashidhoo Island, Kaafu Atoll, Maldives
(2017-12) Water Solutions
This report discusses the findings of an environmental impact study undertaken by Water Solutions Pvt. Ltd in order to fulfil obligatory requirements of the National Environment Protection and Preservation Act, Law No. 4/93 for the proposed setup of the sewerage system (hereafter referred to as the project) in Kaashidhoo island, kaafu Atoll, Maldives. The purpose of this EIA is to identify and minimize potential adverse environmental impacts related to this project and enhance the overall quality of the project. By examining the project location, the legal framework and the existing environmental components such as marine ecology and the socio-economic aspects, this EIA provides useful information regarding the extent, nature and the magnitude of impacts that are likely to occur. The EIA will also help to identify the long term socio-economic benefits to the community after implementing this project. It also provides a framework for future monitoring of the environment, so that changes can be monitored and corrective measures can be undertaken. The proposed project aims to establish a sewerage collection and disposal system in the island of Kaashidhoo in Kaafu Atoll. The concept designed for Kaashidhoo is a gravity type wastewater collection and disposal system. The existing systems are mainly based on septic tanks and small bore sewers. Without proper maintenance these systems are prone to damage and contamination of groundwater can occur. The contamination of the groundwater has occurred to the extent that it cannot be utilized for any potable use. Therefore, the current setup is not environmentally acceptable nor suitable. The sewerage system for Kaashidhoo will be a gravity sewerage system where sloping pipelines will allow waste water from the entire island to flow to nine zonal pumping stations. The sewage will be pumped from the pumping station to the treatment plant where it will be treated and discharged via a sea outfall pipeline into the sea. The sewerage system will comprise of elements of a given specification for sewer mains, cleanouts, manholes, vents, pump stations, outfall pipeline and diffuser that will ensure a 30 year design flow. The sewerage system therefore comprises of the following components: a) Household inspection chambers. b) A gravity sewerage reticulation network. c) Reticulation pumping stations and pressure main system. d) Construction of a sea outfall to discharge the sewage into deep sea. The proposed project will ensure that the groundwater of the island does not get contaminated through improper sanitation systems. It will also ensure that the surrounding marine environment will improve in terms of environmental quality and will ensure pollution from sewage does not occur on the near shore environments. The project is expected to bring several positive impacts on the environmental quality of the island and the surrounding reef. Particularly, the most significant benefit would be achieved through improvement in the bacteriological quality of the groundwater. The health benefits of the project are worthy of noting as the improvement in water quality are going to bring significant health benefits to the community. Environmental & social impacts and the mitigation measures Several environmental impacts of this proposed project have been examined through a number of processes. These include consultations with the project development team, field surveys, observations and assessment, and field experience gained from similar development projects implemented throughout the country. Potential positive and negative impacts on the environment have been considered. The assessment indicates environmental impacts, both during the construction and operation stage. During the construction period, impacts are likely to occur on the marine and terrestrial environment (groundwater). Most of the impacts during the construction period are impacts related to construction waste, dewatering, disruptions to the local traffic, dust emission, damage to the reef during sea outfall construction and noise. During the operational stage of this project, there will be both positive and negative impacts. Positive impacts include the improvement of the ground water quality of the island. Negative impacts include the increased in extraction of groundwater for toilet flushing that may increase the chances of groundwater salinization at a much accelerated rate. This project does foresee some negative impacts even during the construction stage but is geared towards improving the overall environmental quality of the island, most notably the environmental health. The project is presently planned to lay the sewer pipeline along the centre of the exiting road. During this process, dewatering and construction pose some challenges. Previous experience of sewer construction in the Maldives has indicated that excavation depths more than 3.5m are not recommended for conventional dewatering methods to avoid the risk of undermining and trench collapses as well as loss of structural integrity of the surrounding earth. For the purpose of the Kaashidhoo design, the maximum depth of excavation will not exceed 3.5m as per the Design criteria and technical specifications for conventional gravity sewerage systems guideline released by the Water and Sanitation Unit of the Environmental Protection Agency (Environmental Protection Agency, 2015). Strict reference to these criteria will be followed and necessary as the streets are very narrow and congested, leaving limited space for mechanical excavation between buildings for the installation of pipelines. Despite these shortcomings, the project does not pose serious threats to the natural environment (marine and terrestrial) and will directly benefit the environment and the community, both in the short and long term. Minor negative impacts with varying significance will occur as the project is implemented. They include dewatering and localized salinization, disruption to public transport, dust emissions during pipe laying work and reef damage during the process of outfall construction. The pump stations have not been placed around the periphery of the island, instead are located within the population zone. This could pose the issue of foul odour in the event of a system failure whereby the foul odour abatement mechanism is affected. Incorporating the pump stations in the populated areas is a necessity and this design factor will enhance the functioning of the overall system. The project will benefit the community and the island in the long term. It is important to ensure that the project implementation is carried in a sustainable manner and in such the sewerage system can be maintained in a cost effective manner as and when required. It is therefore in the opinion of the consultant that the project does not foresee significant negative environmental impacts and should be allowed. Although the project will benefit the community, the proposed design has a number of disadvantages. Construction of pump stations underground on the streets is seen as a design issue that could have operational difficulties. Instead, the pump stations could be located within the residential block boundary with a small plot of land allocated for the pump station. Selection of sites can be focused on places such as mosque, symmetry and from other public buildings or plots of land. With the present design, a number of operational difficulties are anticipated. Experience from similar systems setup elsewhere in the Maldives have been studied and reviewed for this project. The reviews and experiences from these systems are not infavour of the present design and this is something that needs to be considered before undertaking the project. Sanitation systems must be both environmentally and socially friendly and acceptable. As important as the design is the operation and maintenance. Operation and maintenance should be viewed as a key sustainable aspect of similar projects. No matter how good a design is, the sustainability and acceptability will depend on how good the system functions in the operational period. With the pump stations being located on the road itself, there are a number of such difficulties which are equally as important as the engineering design aspects.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for the construction and setup of a sewerage system in Landhoo Island, Noonu Atoll, Maldives
(2017-11) Water Solutions
This report discusses the findings of an environmental impact study undertaken by Water Solutions Pvt. Ltd in order to fulfill obligatory requirements of the National Environment Protection and Preservation Act, Law No. 4/93 for the proposed setup of the sewerage system (hereafter referred to as the project) in Landhoo island, Noonu Atoll, Maldives. The purpose of this EIA is to identify and minimize potential adverse environmental impacts related to this project and enhance the overall quality of the project. By examining the project location, the legal framework and the existing environmental components such as marine ecology and the socioeconomic aspects, this EIA provides useful information regarding the extent, nature and the magnitude of impacts that are likely to occur. The EIA will also help to identify the long term socio-economic benefits to the community after implementing this project. It also provides a framework for future monitoring of the environment, so that changes can be monitored and corrective measures can be undertaken. The proposed project aims to establish a sewerage collection and disposal system in the island of Landhoo in Noonu Atoll. The concept designed for Landhoo is a gravity type wastewater collection and disposal system. The existing systems are mainly based on septic tanks and small bore sewers. Without proper maintenance these systems are prone to damage and contamination of groundwater can occur. The contamination of the groundwater has occurred to the extent that it cannot be utilized for any potable use. Therefore, the current setup is not environmentally acceptable nor suitable. The sewerage system for Landhoo will be a gravity sewerage system where sloping pipelines will allow waste water from the entire island to flow to three zonal pumping stations. The sewage will be pumped from the pumping station to the treatment plant where it will be treated and discharged via a sea outfall pipeline into the sea. The sewerage system will comprise of elements of a given specification for sewer mains, cleanouts, manholes, vents, pump stations, outfall pipeline and diffuser that will ensure a 30 year design flow The sewerage system therefore comprises of the following components: a) Household inspection chambers. b) A gravity sewerage reticulation network. c) Reticulation pumping stations and pressure main system. d) Construction of a sea outfall to discharge the sewage into deep sea. The proposed project will ensure that the groundwater of the island does not get contaminated through improper sanitation systems. It will also ensure that the surrounding marine environment will improve in terms of environmental quality and will ensure pollution from sewage does not occur on the near shore environments. The project is expected to bring several positive impacts on the environmental quality of the island and the surrounding reef. Particularly, the most significant benefit would be achieved through improvement in the bacteriological quality of the groundwater. The health benefits of the project are worthy of noting as the improvement in water quality are going to bring significant health benefits to the community. Environmental & social impacts and the mitigation measures Several environmental impacts of this proposed project have been examined through a number of processes. These include consultations with the project development team, field surveys, observations and assessment, and field experience gained from similar development projects implemented throughout the country. Potential positive and negative impacts on the environment have been considered. The assessment indicates environmental impacts, both during the construction and operation stage. During the construction period, impacts are likely to occur on the marine and terrestrial environment (groundwater). Most of the impacts during the construction period are impacts related to construction waste, dewatering, disruptions to the local traffic, dust emission, damage to the reef during sea outfall construction and noise. During the operational stage of this project, there will be both positive and negative impacts. Positive impacts include the improvement of the ground water quality of the island. Negative impacts include the increased in extraction of groundwater for toilet flushing that may increase the chances of groundwater salinization at a much accelerated rate. This project does foresee some negative impacts even during the construction stage but is geared towards improving the overall environmental quality of the island, most notably the environmental health. The project is presently planned to lay the sewer pipeline along the center of the exiting road. During this process, dewatering and construction pose some challenges. Previous experience of sewer construction in the Maldives has indicated that excavation depths more than 3.5m are not recommended for conventional dewatering methods to avoid the risk of undermining and trench collapses as well as loss of structural integrity of the surrounding earth. For the purpose of the Landhoo design, the maximum depth of excavation will not exceed 3.5m as per the Design criteria and technical specifications for conventional gravity sewerage systems guideline released by the Water and Sanitation Unit of the Environmental Protection Agency (Environmental Protection Agency, 2015). Strict reference to these criteria will be followed and necessary as some streets are very narrow and congested, leaving limited space for mechanical excavation between buildings for the installation of pipelines. The lack of an approved land use plan for the island is also a draw back for Landhoo. The present design is based solely on the existing populated area in the island. There are large areas of the island undeveloped and unzoned due to lack of a proper land use plan. The island is a potential hot spot for future tourism development due to the vase natural resources (beach, mangroves and thick forests and plenty of land). Different types of developments such as guesthouses and restaurants may require grease traps to prevent large influxes of unwanted material into the sewerage network. Therefore the present design of the system has not considered these future developments and in the event of such developments, the existing system will require upgrading. Requirements may need to be specified at a policy level to counter this issue. Therefore this is a potential risk factor in this project. Despite these shortcomings the project does not pose serious threats to the natural environment (marine and terrestrial) and will directly benefit the environment and the community, both in the short and long term. Minor negative impacts with varying significance will occur as the project is implemented. They include dewatering and localized salinization, disruption to public transport, dust emissions during pipe laying work and reef damage during the process of outfall construction. The pump stations have not been placed around the periphery of the island, instead are located within the population zone. This could pose the issue of foul odour in the event of a system failure whereby the foul odour abatement mechanism is affected. Incorporating the pump stations in the populated areas is a necessity and this design factor will enhance the functioning of the overall system. The project will benefit the community and the island in the long term. It is important to ensure that the project implementation is carried in a sustainable manner and in such the sewerage system can be maintained in a cost effective manner as and when required. It is therefore in the opinion of the consultant that the project does not foresee significant negative environmental impacts and should be allowed. Although the project will benefit the community, the proposed design has a number of disadvantages. Construction of pump stations underground on the streets is seen as a design issue that could have operational difficulties. Instead, the pump stations could be located within the residential block boundary with a small plot of land allocated for the pump station. Selection of sites can be focused on places such as mosque, symmetry and from other public buildings or plots of land. With the present design, a number of operational difficulties are anticipated. Experience from similar systems setup elsewhere in the Maldives have been studied and reviewed for this project. The reviews and experiences from these systems are not in favor of the present design and this is something that needs to be considered before undertaking the project. Sanitation systems must be both environmentally and socially friendly and acceptable. As important as the design is the operation and maintenance. Operation and maintenance should be viewed as a key sustainable aspect of similar projects. No matter how good a design is, the sustainability and acceptability will depend on how good the system functions in the operational period. With the pump stations being located on the road itself, there are a number of such difficulties which are equally as important as the engineering design aspects.