Browsing by Author | މުސައްނިފުން "Zuhair, Mohamed"

Now showing 1 - 33 of 33

Technical Report
EIA for the development of an agricultural product at Baa. Hulhudhoo
(2015-10) Zuhair, Mohamed
This report provides the finding of an environmental impact assessment conducted for the proposal of an agricultural development at the island of Hulhudhoo, Baa Atoll. Environment Impact Assessment is required before undertaking any developmental project such as agriculture development that may have a significant negative impact on the natural environment of the island under Environmental Impact Assessment Regulation 2012. Hence, this report is written to fulfill the legal obligations under the EIA regulation. The project is proposed by Ms. Aminath Muna and the island of B. Hulhudhoo is leased to Ms. Muna in 2015 to develop agricultural activities. The proposed agricultural project, at Hulhudhoo is based on production of high quality banana for supplying produce to surrounding resort islands. This project also involves along with the establishment of commercial farming plots for banana plantation, the establishment of mushroom culture infrastructure such as a laboratory, grow-out houses for mushroom, packing and storage facilities. The mushroom produced would also be supplied to resorts. The proposed project has the following major components: 1. Agro-Forestry: The concept of growing agricultural crops alongside forest trees, for integrated farming systems 2. Banana Plantation: Over 50 plots (150ft by 150 ft) is dedicated to growing banana, with some areas allocated for fruit orchards. 3. Mushroom culture: producing fresh mushroom by using impregnated spawn and supply to resorts Hulhudhoo agriculture development project is part of the embodiment of the Government’s vision for promoting food security and to increase yield and optimum land use through improved and high yielding crops and hybrid varieties, cultivation designed for more sustainable and commercial scale agricultural produce such as year round banana produce and mushroom culture. The project would include infrastructure to support the project and land clearance for banana plantation.This project involves the establishment of commercial farming plots for banana plantation along with mushroom culture infrastructure such as a laboratory, grow-out houses for mushroom, packing and storage facility and staff accommodation. Construction of the buildings will be kept to a minimum; staff accommodation, kitchen / dining facilities will be constructed to accommodate no more than 15 people for the agricultural works. A small stilt-jetty is constructed on the western side of the island. The baseline environmental conditions were assessed using standard methods. Environmental impacts were identified and assessed for both construction phase and operational phase of the project. Some of the environmental impacts of the project have been identified as positive resulting mainly from improved socio-economic conditions, increased economic activities in Baa Atoll as a whole, direct and indirect employment opportunities, and increased business opportunities. The main negative environmental impact of the project is identified to be the changes to the islandecosystem from clearance of vegetation.The main mitigation measures for the proposed project would be that clearance takes place only where necessary. Septic tanks systems have been proposed for disposing human waste and pose no long-termnegative environmental impact considering the small number of people expected to bebased on the island.The Proponent, are committed to undertake monitoring during all stages of the project and the cost monitoring programme has been endorsed. The activities proposed in the project comply with the environmental laws of the Maldives, its rules and regulations, including requirements of those agencies relevant to the agricultural development works enforcement. In conclusion, this EIA has looked into the key factors that needed to be looked in to during construction and operational stage. In my opinion, even though this project does have significant environmental impacts to the terrestrial environment, the significant positive impacts that would arise from the agricultural development in Hulhudhoo would provide such as asset for the well-being of the population and residents of Baa Atoll.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment : proposed 6-storey building with basement water tank at lot no. 20056, Hulhumale’
(2018-03-01) Zuhair, Mohamed; Shakir, Ibrahim
i) Mr. Mohamed Ibrahim, M. Pink Night (A049115) proposes to develop a 6-Storey Building with Basement Water Tank at Lot 20056, Nirolhu Magu, Hulhumale’ for both commercial and residential purpose. The total area of the plot is 188.67sqm and proposed building footprint area is 141.68sqm. It is proposed that 47sqm will be left as open space. The building height from ground level will be 18.5m. ii) Once completed, the basement area will have 64sqm water tank, the ground floor will have a guest lounge and pantry, shop and parking area, the first and second floors will have 2-bedroom and 3-bedroom apartment in each floor and from third to fifth floors will be 5 individual bedrooms and sixth (terrace) floor will have a studio apartment. iii) The sites will be excavated to a depth of 3m to lay the foundations. The entire boundary will be shored with corrugated sheets supported by iron beams as a safety measure while preparing the site ready for construction. The building will rest on a raft foundation. MWSC and STELCO utility services based in Hulhumale’ will be used for all construction and operation purposes. Dewatering will be primarily done on the open areas nearby, hence, no groundwater will be lost from the proposed development. Excavated material will be transported to designated areas in Hulhumale’ Phase 2. iv) The proposed project meeting with some of the requirement of exceeding the foundation deeper than 5ft and having a basement, hence, requires an EIA to be undertaken and approved by EPA outlining the existing environmental conditions of the project site and surrounding, key environmental concerns including likely environmental impacts that will be generated from the proposed project and measures to mitigate these environmental impacts and a monitoring programme to be undertaken during pre-construction and post-construction periods. Terms of Reference for the EIA was approved by 13 February 2018. v) In addition to Environmental Protection and Preservation Act, EIA Regulations, the project has to comply with Dewatering Regulation, Waste Management Regulation Hulhumale’ Planning and Building Construction Regulation: Neighborhood 4 as well as comply with Maldives National Building Code recommendations. vi) In order to understand existing environmental conditions of the proposed project area, assessments have been undertaken including ambient noise levels, traffic volume and movement, groundwater quality, soil and vegetation, physical condition of the roads. vii) The proposed project will be undertaken in the land plot 20056 on Nirolhu Magu, Hulhumale’ Phase 2 located at 4°13'31.18"N / 73°32'50.53"E. The total area of the plot is 188.67sqm and proposed building footprint area is 141.68sqm. It is proposed that 47sqm will be left as open space. The building height from ground level will be 18.5m. viii) The highest noise level was recorded at Site 3 located on the eastern side of the project site having 45dB and lowest noise recorded was recorded at Site 1 located on the western side having 39dB. The noise levels recorded from the project site were relatively low as there are no major vehicle movement and ongoing construction works around the project site except for the eastern side where road works are currently underway. ix) Generally, the traffic volume was observed to be very low. This is mainly because the area currently do not have residential or commercial development for increased traffic movement. The area mostly has construction sites. However, during the operation phase of the project, the traffic volume in the area will increase drastically as there will be a number of similar development projects that may have completed construction in the area. x) The general soil condition was typical of reclaimed lands with coarse to fine sand mixed with coral rubble and fragments were observed. The groundwater was found at a depth of 1.8m. xi) The groundwater condition at the site is normal with no peculiar condition of parameters tested, except that some 2420 CFU/100ml of Total Coliform counts have been recorded, which does not have a serious negative groundwater condition xii) There are no vegetation found inside the project boundary and the surrounding environment. Most areas are bare land. Due to absence of vegetation and other favourable habitats no fauna were also observed from the project site and surrounding. xiii) There are currently no buildings adjacent to the proposed plot or the immediate surrounding area. xiv) Currently a large project on development of roads at Hulhumale Phase 2 are ongoing. Only few major roads are completed at present. Some roads by the project site are under development. xv) Currently no population resides in Hulhumale’ Phase 2. The entire Hulhumale’ (including Phase 1 and Phase 2) is targeted for a population of over 150,000. xvi) Unlike short-term environmental impacts from the proposed development, it has longterm beneficial social and economic impacts, which is believed to tremendously contribute to the overall socio-economic development of Hulhumale’ that can be sustained for over longer periods. xvii) With appropriate environmental management and mitigation measures as well as conformity to all the legal and regulatory requirements as outlined in the EIA Report, the project is believed to control or minimize most of the environmental and social impacts both during construction and operation phases of the development. Important considerations with regards to mitigating environmental impacts include closing the boundary of the project area, placing safety and dust nets around the building, regularly transporting construction waste and avoiding material transport during peak traffic hours as well as designating proper time periods for construction works have been identified. xviii) Although during construction of the project, negative environmental impacts from construction activities have been envisaged, with appropriate environmental management and mitigation measures, these impacts will be reduced to a considerable level. Also, with positive socio-economic outlook of the project and considering the overall importance of such a development in Hulhumale’ to open residential opportunity, it is concluded that the project is an important project that can be implemented for the benefit of social and economic development
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment : proposed development of 15- storey building with basement at H. Dhoovehi Male’
(2017-05) މުޙައްމަދު ޒުހެއިރު; Zuhair, Mohamed; އިބްރާހިމް ޝާކިރު; Shakir, Ibrahim
i. The proposed 15 storey building at H. Dhoovehi will be developed by AMIN Construction Pvt. Ltd. Once completed, the basement area will have water tanks with storage area, the ground floor will be a private car park, generator room, water meter room, security room, waste collection, loading area; first and second floors will be a restaurant; third to thirteenth floor will be residential, fourteenth floor will be a suite. At the top level will be a rooftop mezzanine. The total area of the plot is 290m2. ii. The site will be excavated to a depth of 3.35m to lay the foundations and develop the basement area having 167sqm in floor area, which is 57% of the total plot area. The basement area will have 2 x 18cbm water tanks and a large storage area. The entire boundary will be sheet piled to depths of 5m with corrugated sheets supported by iron beams as a safety measure while preparing the site ready for construction. iii. The building will rest on a pile raft foundation. A total of 79 micropiles (200- 300mm diameter) will be driven into the ground to depths ranging from 1 – 3.6m through boreholes done in 2 regions within the plot. The region 1 will have 31 such micropiles and region 2 will have 48 micropiles. The project requires 1,160m3 of soil to be excavated and 783m3 of groundwater to be dewatered to lay the foundation of the building. The project is scheduled to be completed in 18 months. iv. The EIA has been prepared as per the EIA Regulations 2012 developed directly under the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act and identifies that development of such buildings exceeding 31m in height and with basements or over 10 storeys with greater than 5ft foundation require an EIA to be undertaken and approved by EPA before commencement of construction. v. In addition to Environmental Protection and Preservation Act, EIA Regulations, the project has to comply with Dewatering Regulation, Waste Management Regulation, Male’ Planning Regulation, Land Act as well as comply with Maldives National Building Code recommendations. vi. In order to understand existing environmental conditions of the proposed project area, assessments have been undertaken including ambient noise levels, traffic volume and movement, groundwater quality, soil and vegetation, physical condition of the surrounding buildings and roads. vii. The proposed development will take place in the eastern part of Male’, Henveiru District on the north-eastern side of Block Number 9. Dhoovehi is located at the corner of Boduthakurufaanu Magu and Burevi Magu at 4°10'22.63"N and 73°31'3.39"E. The main connectivity will be from Boduthakurufaanu Magu. The block is located quite close to the Artificial Beach, proposed bridge and the open park space of Block Number 10. viii. Noise levels recorded from the sites were Site 1 47dB (day) and 56dB (night), Site 2 51dB (day) and 59dB (night), Site 3 49dB (day) and 57dB (night) and Site 4 42dB (day) and 47dB (night). Night time noise levels at all sites were found to be slightly increased than day time. This is mainly due to increased traffic in the area at the time of assessment at night. ix. The traffic volume was assessed to be quite high especially on Baduthakurufaanu Magu for both day and night times. The highest traffic volume was observed to be from motorcycle having 288 during day time and 420 during night time on Baduthakurufaanu Magu. On Burevi Magu number of cycles were greatly reduced having 56 during day time and 94 during night time. The volume of cars on Boduthakurufaanu Magu was observed to be 90 during day time and 121 during night time. On Burevi Magu number of cars were observed to be 22 during day time and 35 during night time. x. The results of the groundwater analysis show that the groundwater of the area is free from contamination. As the plot is located quite close to the sea, the results show some levels of salinity having 1.230/00. xi. There is no vegetation present in the proposed plot hence, vegetation assessment was not undertaken. xii. On the western adjacent side of the plot, there are three buildings having 4 storey, 2 storey and 7 storey all of which belong to Noofaru house. Only the 7 storey building is found on Burevi Magu while others are inside of Noofaru house. On the southern adjacent side, a two storey storage and a labour building is found belonging to Sea Side house. No other adjacent buildings are found by the plot. On the western side of Noofaru house on Burevi Magu, a 5 storey building belonging to Rumania house and 10 storey building belonging to Sheereen Villa is found. All buildings are observed to be in good condition and no physical damages were identified. All buildings are believed to be 5 -7 years old. xiii. Dhoovehi plot is found on the corner of Boduthakurufaanu Magu and Burevi Magu, hence these two roads are found by the plot. Boduthakurufaanu Magu is the main road found around Male’. The condition of these roads are observed to be good. No cracks or physical damages were found. xiv. There are no significant environmental impacts from the proposed project, however, some of the environmental impacts from development activities such as excavation, dewatering, construction activities, operation of construction machinery, construction waste generating environmental impacts such as noise, dust and pollution are believed to occur. Social impacts such as traffic congestion, disturbance to nearby residents have been predicted as well as health problems as a result of dust have been identified. During operation period of the project, domestic waste and traffic are believed to increase. xv. As part of the proposed project, a number of mitigation measures have been proposed in the EIA Report including using corrugated sheets supported by iron beams as a safety measure for protecting the excavated area for foundation, dewatering will be undertaken upon approval from EPA, while preparing the site ready for construction, measures such as installation of safety and dust protection nets, appropriate signage will be placed to make aware people on the development. Also, important mitigation measures that will be implemented include complete elimination of waste disposal during construction and operation stages of the development into the project boundaries. xvi. Although the project has short-term environmental impacts from the proposed development, the project has more social and economic benefits, which is believed to tremendously contribute to the need for residential and commercial space in Male’, create some employment opportunities and contribute to the local economy in Male’ in the long-term. xvii. Although during construction of the project, negative environmental impacts from construction activities have been envisaged, with appropriate environmental management and mitigation measures, these impacts will be reduced to a considerable level. Also, with positive socio-economic outlook of the project and considering the overall importance of housing in Male’, it is concluded that the project is an important development.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment : proposed mixed use residential complex in block c4-3(one Avenue), Hulhumale’
(2016-12-01) Zuhair, Mohamed; Shakir, Ibrahim
DAMAS Company Pvt. Ltd. proposes to develop a mixed-use residential and commercial complex in Block C4-3 in Hulumale. The Block is located on Fithuroanu Magu on the north-western side of Hulhumale’. The total area of the plot is 25,000ft2. With a setback, the total building footprint area will be 16,500ft2. Hence, a total of 8,500ft2 will be left as open space within the plot. Upon completion of the proposed project, the complex will have a total of 95 apartments in the two wings, comprising of 1 bedroom, 2 bedroom and 3 bedroom apartment and penthouses. The northern wing will have a total of 44 units and southern wing will have a total of 51 units. The Ground Floor and First Floors of the complex will be developed as commercial, car and motorcycle parking lots. This EIA is prepared as per the Terms of Reference (TOR) approved by Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on 29 November 2016. It is a legal requirement under the Amended EIA Regulation to prepare and approve EIAs for commercial, economic and development projects enlisted in Schedule D. Environmental clearance is obtained through approval of the EIA and issuance of EIA Decision Statement from EPA. Block C4-3 is located at 4°13'14.14"N / 73°32'21.44"E on the north-western side of Hulhumale’ on Fithroanu Magu. In order to understand existing environmental conditions of Block C4-3, assessments have been undertaken including noise levels, traffic flow and volume, vegetation, soil, groundwater and structural assessments. The highest noise level was recorded at Site 1 located on the southern side of the project site having 55dB. The main reason for the high noise levels at Site 1 was because it was located close to another road that connects to Fithuroanu Magu. The lowest noise level was recorded from Site 4 having 43dB, which was located right behind the proposed plot. This site was empty and there is no activity happening close to the site. Fithuroanu Magu is a two-lane road where traffic is allowed to move both ways as it is a main road found along the north-western side of Hulhumale’ that connects to the main ferry terminal. The highest traffic along the road recorded was from motorcycles having 46 during the hourly period. The road is also a regular bus route and around 4 bus trips were recorded during the EIA –Mixed Use same hour. The second highest traffic volume is from cars, mainly taxis having an hourly movement of 29 at the time of the assessment. There is no vegetation found inside the project boundary. However, some mature vegetation primarily consisting of Beefwood (Grevillea spp), which has been planted along the roadside are found. These plants are outside of the proposed plot, hence, there is no requirement for removing these vegetation. There are currently no buildings adjacent to the proposed plot, however, some buildings similar to the proposed project is planned to be undertaken within the vicinity. Also, about 150m south of the proposed project, a site is getting ready for construction. A temporary facility and some materials are already in place. Only one road is currently found by the project area, which is found in front. The physical condition of the road is good. No damages and cracks have been observed. The environmental impacts that may be associated with the proposed project are predicted and assumed in the EIA Report. These environmental impacts are divided into construction phase and operation phase environmental impacts. Most of the construction phase environmental impacts are believed to occur from excavation, dewatering, construction activities, operation of construction machinery and vehicles and construction waste disposal. The main environmental impacts believed to occur during operation phase of the project include household waste and increased traffic within and around areas. As part of the proposed project, a number of mitigation measures have been proposed in the EIA Report including using corrugated sheets supported by iron beams as a safety measure for protecting the excavated area for foundation, dewatering will be undertaken in opens spaces in Hulhumale to reduce loss of ground water, while preparing the site ready for construction, measures such as installation of safety and dust protection nets, appropriate signage will be placed to make aware people on the development. Also, important mitigation measures that will be implemented include complete elimination of waste disposal during construction and operation stages of the development into the project boundaries as well as promotion of a greener lifestyle have identified important aspects of the proposed development
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment : proposed mixed used residential complex in Hulhumale’ block C4-1 (Apollo Towers), Hulhumale’
(2017-01-01) Zuhair, Mohamed; Shakir, Ibrahim
Apollo Holdings Pvt. Ltd. proposes to develop a mixed-use residential and commercial complex in Block C4-1 (Apollo Towers) in Hulumale. The Block is located on Fithuroanu Magu on the north-western side of Hulhumale’. The total area of the plot is 27,700ft2. With a setback, the total building footprint area will be 21,775ft2. Hence, a total of 5,925ft2 will be left as open space within the plot. Upon completion of the proposed project, the complex will have a total of 97 apartments in the two towers, comprising of 1 bedroom, 2 bedroom and 3 bedroom apartment and penthouses. The T1 will have a total of 52 units and T2 will have a total of 45 units. The Ground Floor and First Floor of the complex will be developed as car and motorcycle parking, multipurpose hall, gym and a kids play area. This EIA is prepared as per the Terms of Reference (TOR) approved by Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on 22 January 2017. It is a legal requirement under the Amended EIA Regulation to prepare and approve EIAs for commercial, economic and development projects enlisted in Schedule D. Environmental clearance is obtained through approval of the EIA and issuance of EIA Decision Statement from EPA. The Block C4-1 allocated for the development of Apollo Towers is located at 4°13'17.70"N / 73°32'22.44"E on the north-western side of Hulhumale’ on Fithroanu Magu In order to understand existing environmental conditions of Block C4-1, assessments have been undertaken including noise levels, traffic flow and volume, vegetation, soil, groundwater and structural assessments. The highest noise level was recorded at Site 3 located on the northern side of the project site having 51dB. The main reason for the high noise levels at Site 3 was because occasional vehicle movement and close to the construction site of the STO Hotel. The lowest noise level was recorded from Site 4 and Site 6 having 42dB, which was located on either side of the proposed plot. This site was empty and there is no activity happening close to the site. In front of the project site, noise level recorded was 47dB as there is some traffic movement. The highest traffic along the road recorded was from motorcycles having 32 during the hourly period. The road is also a regular bus route and around 4 bus trips were recorded during the EIA –Mixed Use Residential Complex in Block C4-1 (Apollo Towers), Hulhumale’, January 2017 Page 15 same hour. The second highest traffic volume is from cars, mainly taxis having an hourly movement of 22 at the time of the assessment. There is no vegetation found inside the project boundary. However, some mature vegetation primarily consisting of Beefwood (Grevillea spp), which has been planted along the roadside are found. These plants are outside of the proposed plot, hence, there is no requirement for removing these vegetation. There are currently no buildings adjacent to the proposed plot, however, some buildings similar to the proposed project is planned to be undertaken within the vicinity. Also, about 150m south of the proposed project, a site is getting ready for construction. A temporary facility and some materials are already in place. Only one road is currently found by the project area, which is found in front. The physical condition of the road is good. No damages and cracks have been observed. The environmental impacts that may be associated with the proposed project are predicted and assumed in the EIA Report. These environmental impacts are divided into construction phase and operation phase environmental impacts. Most of the construction phase environmental impacts are believed to occur from excavation, dewatering, construction activities, operation of construction machinery and vehicles and construction waste disposal. The main environmental impacts believed to occur during operation phase of the project include household waste and increased traffic within and around areas. As part of the proposed project, a number of mitigation measures have been proposed in the EIA Report including using corrugated sheets supported by iron beams as a safety measure for protecting the excavated area for foundation, dewatering will be undertaken in opens spaces in Hulhumale to reduce loss of ground water, while preparing the site ready for construction, measures such as installation of safety and dust protection nets, appropriate signage will be placed to make aware people on the development. Also, important mitigation measures that will be implemented include complete elimination of waste disposal during construction and operation stages of the development into the project boundaries as well as promotion of a greener lifestyle have identified important aspects of the proposed development. EIA –Mixed Use Residential Complex in Block C4-1 (Apollo Towers), Hulhumale’, January 2017 Page 16 The overall environmental performance will be monitored by an environmental monitoring framework that will be implemented as part of the proposed development of the mixed use residential complex. Although during construction of the project, negative environmental impacts from construction activities have been envisaged, with appropriate environmental management and mitigation measures, these impacts will be reduced to a considerable level. Also, with positive socioeconomic outlook of the project and considering the overall importance of such a development in Hulhumale’ to alleviate housing stress, it is concluded that the project should go ahead as planned.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment : Tower C of Amin Avenue, Hulhumale’
(2016-01) Zuhair, Mohamed; Shakir, Ibrahim
This Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Report has been prepared for the development of Tower C, which is the third block to be developed as part of the 3 mixed-use residential and commercial complexes of Amin Avenue to be developed in Hulhumale’ by Amin Construction Pvt. Ltd.. The proposed Tower C development will be undertaken in a separate 14 storey building in the land plot N2-23 in Neighborhood 2. Upon completion of Tower C, the complex will have 72 apartments. The Ground and First Floors of the complex will be developed for commercial plots, parking lots and access ways, similar to Tower A and B. This EIA is prepared as per the Terms of Reference (TOR) approved by Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on 16 December 2015. It is a legal requirement under the Amended EIA Regulation to prepare and approve EIAs for commercial, economic and development projects enlisted in Schedule D. Environmental clearance is obtained through approval of the EIA and issuance of EIA Decision Statement from EPA. The Tower C of Amin Avenue will be developed in Neighborhood 2 of Hulhumale’ in the land plot N2-23, which is located at 4°12'49.14"N / 73°32'25.66"E. The total land area of N2- 23 is 19,779ft2. The plot is located on the southern side of the proposed park located in the central parts of Hulhumale’. In order to understand existing environmental conditions of the proposed Tower C plot, assessments have been undertaken including noise levels, traffic flow and volume, ecological and structural assessments, groundwater and soil assessments. As Tower C is located within the overall Amin Avenue development boundary, comparison of some of the data collected for the EIA for Towers A and B with EIA for Tower C has been undertaken. Similar to the previous assessments, the highest noise levels recorded were from the northern side of the land plot having 76dB and 78dB. However, readings for the same locations during the previous assessment showed 69dB and 67dB, hence there is an increase in the noise levels of the surrounding environment. This is primarily attributed to the ongoing construction works at Towers A and B as well as other nearby sites. The average noise levels recorded on the southern sides were also increased from 62dB (previous) to 66dB (new) and from 61dB (previous) to 68dB (new). The increased noise levels on the southern side were also attributed to the ongoing construction activities for the development of Towers A and B. Generally, the traffic volume was observed to have decreased from the previous survey. This is probably due to the time where the data was collected and the period in which the data was collected where it was school holidays, hence there is a general reduction in the traffic volume of the surrounding environment. However, volume of pickups and trucks has increased from 7 to 8 and from 5 to 6 in the recent survey. There is no vegetation found within the plot allocated for Tower C development. Hence, there are no issues with vegetation clearance as part of the proposed development. A soil pit was dug within the land plot allocated for Tower C development, which indicate that generally there are no soil layers. The soil profiles show that up to the water level, only reclaimed sand exists. As there is no vegetation found within the site, the topsoil also does not have any humus content. A groundwater analysis was carried out for the Tower C location from MWSC laboratories, which indicated that the groundwater found within the site contains average levels of nitrates having 20.5mg/l. Phosphate levels found were 0.05mg/l and sulphide levels were less than 5 miccrograms/l. The salinity level was only 0.44ppt. However, high levels of dissolved solids having 451mg/l and turbidity level of 4.52NTU was found in the groundwater. Also, high levels of faecal coliforms having 308CFU were found from the groundwater at the site. Currently some social housing units and flats are found within the vicinity of the project sites which are observed to be quite new and in good condition. No physical damages have been observed from these buildings. These buildings are found on the eastern side of the Tower C plot and the overall development area. Condition of the roads around the proposed project site is observed to be in good condition. No cracks or physical damages are observed on the roads. The environmental impacts that may be associated with the proposed project are predicted and assumed in the EIA Report. These environmental impacts are divided into construction phase and operation phase environmental impacts. Most of the construction phase environmental impacts are believed to occur from excavation, dewatering, construction activities, operation of construction machinery and vehicles and construction waste disposal. The main environmental impacts believed to occur during operation phase of the project include household waste and increased traffic within and around areas. As part of the proposed project, a number of mitigation measures have been proposed in the EIA Report including using corrugated sheets supported by iron beams as a safety measure for protecting the excavated area for foundation, dewatering will be undertaken in opens spaces in Hulhumale to reduce loss of ground water, while preparing the site ready for construction, measures such as installation of safety and dust protection nets, appropriate signage will be placed to make aware people on the development. Also, important mitigation measures that will be implemented include complete elimination of waste disposal during construction and operation stages of the development into the project boundaries as well as promotion of a greener lifestyle have identified important aspects of the proposed development. The overall environmental performance will be monitored by an environmental monitoring framework that will be implemented as part of the proposed development of Tower C of Amin Avenue. Although during construction of the project, negative environmental impacts from construction activities have been envisaged, with appropriate environmental management and mitigation measures, these impacts will be reduced to a considerable level. Also, with positive socio-economic outlook of the project and considering the overall importance of such a development in Hulhumale’ to alleviate housing stress, it is concluded that the project should go ahead as planned.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for proposed water production and distribution facility at Naifaru Naifaru, Lhaviyani Atoll, Maldives
(2017-01-01) Zuhair, Mohamed; Fathah, Mariyam Shujaa Ath A.; Shareef, Mohamed
The purpose of this EIA is to critically analyse and assess the potential environmental impacts associated with the development of the proposed water production and distribution facility at Lh. Naifaru and expose the solutions and preferred alternatives as well as mitigation measures to minimize any negative impacts whilst trying to derive the maximum positive impacts from the project; 2. Currently, rainwater is widely used in all houses for cooking and drinking whilst groundwater is used for various other domestic uses. Almost all houses have a rainwater storage tank. Bottled water is now mainly used as drinking water. Nevertheless, the groundwater lens in the islands of Maldives is depleted and highly saline due to over use and polluted in some areas and not fit for use for domestic purposes. Even though rainwater is widely used, it is not a reliable source as rainwater cannot be collected during dry season. Therefore, it is understood that residents of Naifaru are in great need of a clean water facility; 3. In the proposed facility the water production system is designed for 15 years whereas the distribution system for 35 years; 4. Proposed project involves installation of an RO plant with a capacity of 180 tonnes per day with three independent drains. Seawater intake is proposed from two bore wells 30 m deep at a site inside the desalination plant. Project also includes laying of distribution pipeline to existing household and a fire hydrant system; 5. A full baseline of seawater quality, vegetation clearance and marine environment was established. Marine environment study showed that living substrata and fish count at the proposed outfall location was low; 6. The construction works of new RO plant presented in this report are not expected to adversely impact the environment if the mitigation measures mentioned in the report are followed. The most important mitigation measures are daily maintenance of machinery, following chemical handling procedures, waste segregation and storage in closed labelled containers until disposal; 7. Overall, the proposed project is expected to bring in positive outcomes. It is expected that the newly established water production and distribution facility will ensure water security to the population of Naifaru in addition to greatly reducing health impacts associated with the use of polluted water; and 8. Monitoring is essential to ensure that environmental thresholds are not exceeded and mitigation measures proposed are working. Water quality and marine environment monitoring shall be done as per the proposed monitoring schedule.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for development of a city hotel at Hanimaadhoo, H.Dh. Atoll
(2014-05) Riyaz, Mahmood; Zuhair, Mohamed
This is the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report carried out for Island Expert Pvt. Ltd to develop and operate a three star City Hotel on the north western part of Hanimaadhoo Island located in North East of H.Dh Atoll. The proposed project includes development of 41 guest rooms and necessary infrastructure to establish and operate the city hotel. The EIA was prepared as fulfilment of the requirement by the Ministry Tourism (MoT) for granting permission for the project. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) of development projects is a requirement by the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act (EPPA) (law 4/93) of the Government of the Republic of Maldives. The total cost of the proposed project is approximately 6 million USD. The project will be developed within 18 months. The project will create a relatively large number of direct and indirect employment opportunities throughout for the people of Hanimaadhoo Island and particularly to the islands on the northern part of the Maldives. Therefore the project will significantly contribute to the economic growth, particularly tourism sector, and other relevant socio-economic activities This report has been prepared in accordance with the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations published by the Ministry of Environment and Energy 2012 and covers both negative and positive environmental and socio-economic impact arising from the proposed project in Hanimaadhoo Island. This report also presents an assessment of the ongoing work at the land plot allocated for Hanimaadhoo city hotel development following a report by Hanimaadhoo council during the EIA scoping meeting that the developer has already started construction and site clearance work prior to EIA approval. Major findings of this report are based on information gathered during the field inspection of both the existing environment and possible effects of the project activities, through extensive literature review and experiences gained from similar projects elsewhere in the Maldives. The proposed project activity will take place on the north western part of Hanimaadhoo Island. The island of Hanimaadhoo is a North-south oriented island located at the Eastern rim of H.Dh Atoll. The reef system hosting Hanimaadhoo Island is an elongated shape reef, which has a length of 6.9 km and width of 1.6km. The reef flat is wider at the western side and the island occupies the eastern half of the reef. The island of Hanimaadhoo is an inhabited island with a population of 1200 people is approximately 6.5km long and 40-700m wide and the with increases towards north. Hanimaadhoo is located at latitude 6.7536o and longitude 73.1737o in North H.Dh Atoll (Figure 1). It is approximately 288 km from the capital Male’. H.Dh Hanimaadhoo is a fairly big island having approximately 155ha with thick vegetation mostly consisting of coconut palms and woody trees. The southern part of the island has been developed as a domestic airport, which was recently converted to an International Airport. Almost 50% of the land area on the southern parts occupies airport territories, hence, vegetation clearance and alteration was greatly seen. The settlement of the island is found on the mid-northern parts and is mainly concentrated on the western areas and extending towards north. Main vegetation within the area allocated for city hotel development is fairly intact with coconut palms, funa, dhigaa, hirundhu and small amounts of nika and dhonkeyo as the main cover within the area, which makes up over 50% of the vegetation cover. Most of the vegetation found on the site is fairly young with magoo, uni as well as funa, hirundhu and dhigga. The cover of young vegetation found on the site exceeds 20%. Other types of vegetation that are sparsely distributed on the site include kaani, boashi, kashikeyo, dhonkeyo, and midhili are found in a very small content. It was observed that the vegetation of the site has been greatly altered or to a great extent used by the local communities probably for collection of fire wood, wood and timber as well as for undertaking agriculture in small areas. The reef on the NW side of Hanimaadhoo is characterized by a large reef flat having approximately 50-70m in the width and a very large lagoon having approximately 290-310m in the width. The average depth of the reef flat is about 1m and the lagoon is about 1.5m. The reef crest is found at a depth of about 2-2.5m. The reef slope is observed to be slanted with the upper portion having the most live coral, while the lower portion (below 10-15m) are mostly covered with dead corals, sand and aged rocks. The live coral cover was generally low except for the upper reef slope where the live coral percentage estimated was 12%. The reef flat and the reef crest had 4% and 6% live coral cover respectively. Based on the ground water analysis ground water of Hanimaadhoo city hotel development site is safe to use for all purposes. At present drinking water is transported from Kulhudhuffushi and supplemented by the rainwater catchments. During the preparation of the EIA report an impact matrix, which is a standard tool for identifying the possible impacts of project activities, has been created for proposed development project in Hanimaadhoo Island. The activities carried out during the construction and post-construction or operational phases are arrayed against a selection of environmental factors that may be affected directly or indirectly as a result of project activities. The report has identified and described in detail possible change that would occur to the existing condition of the environment caused during the construction phase and have suggested appropriate mitigation measures for each and every impact identified in the report. Vegetation clearance has been identified as the most significant negative environmental impact that could be associated with the vegetation clearance. Liquid, solid and other forms of wastes and particularly hazardous waste generated during the construction and operational phase has also been identified as significant impact associated with the project and appropriate mitigation measures are suggested for each and every waste related impact identified in the study. The study has evaluated alternative options for some components of the project and has suggested some modifications for city hotel layout and landscaping. Also the report found, based on the similar project activities elsewhere in the Maldives, the island and the reef will recover from the expected impacts rapidly and will re-establish a new ecological balance soon. However the report has come-up with an extensive monitoring programme that will keep on monitoring the environmental changes associated with the development and make necessary adjustment to the activities of the project based on the findings of various measured environmental parameters suggested in the monitoring plan. The report has identified the following beneficial effects form city hotel development in Hanimaadhoo:  Increased direct employment and training opportunities;  Improvements in environmental quality of the island;  Stimulation of local economy, cultivation and small business opportunities within the nearby island communities; and  Increased government revenue and increased GDP. The report found no evidence that the city hotel development in Hanimaadhoo requires or involves any of the following environmental or socio-economic impacts.  loss of unique habitat or wilderness areas;  resettling of local communities;  removing or destroying cultural properties;  contravening national government of the Republic of Maldives, or island community policies, regulations, criteria, customs or aspirations concerning environment, economy, employment, cultural traditions or life styles. On the basis this environmental impact assessment study and the impact mitigation measures proposed in the report will be duly implemented and recommendations are given due consideration, it is concluded that the benefits of the planned city hotel development in Hanimaadhoo Island will substantially outweigh its imposition on the environment.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for proposed access channel and boat mooring area deepening in Fehendhoo Island, Baa Atoll
(2016-03) Zuhair, Mohamed
The Secretariat of the Fehendhoo Council (Fenhendhoo Island Council) proposes to develop an access channel and a boat mooring area by deepening a 244m long, 10m wide access channel and a 45.75m long and 30.50m wide boat mooring area on the northern side of Fehendhoo Island. These areas will be excavated to a depth of 3m at low tide. Also, as part of the proposed project, a retain wall by use of concrete blocks on the island-ward side of the boat mooring area will be undertaken. An area of 2,440sqm from the access channel and an area of 1,395sqm from the boat mooring area require to be excavated as part of the proposed project. A total of 6,100cbm from the access channel and 3,488cbm from the boat mooring area (total 9,588cbm) will be obtained from these locations. Two areas have been identified for use of the excavated material from the proposed project including use of material on the small islet by the existing partial access channel on the northern side and on the NW shoreline of Fehendhoo where long-term beach erosion has been identified. Under the Maldives Environmental Protection and Preservation Act (Law No. 4/93) and EIA Regulation 2012, the proposed deepening of access channel and boat mooring area project requires an EIA to be carried out. The report presents major findings of the EIA report. Baseline environmental condition of the proposed project site as well as socio-economic environment was conducted for which the environmental impacts and mitigation measures as well as project alternatives are presented. It was found that there is a great need for developing an access channel and a boat mooring area on the island, which is recognized as an important community need. The assessments carried out on the biophysical environment indicate that the coral reefs within the project boundary had very little live coral cover and limited reef fish abundance and diversity. The depth of the project area ranges from 2.7m on the north to 0.4m on the south below MSL. The current flow was from north to south taking a slightly westward direction and strong currents were identified on the outer reef area and decreased currents were observed in the lagoon closer to the island. Most of the lagoon environment was covered with seagrass in the nearshore and isolated corals, rubble and rock in the middle lagoon areas. As a result of the proposed project during construction phase, some environmental impacts such as sedimentation, direct destruction of lagoon habitats, turbid marine water quality and certain degree of impacts to corals and seagrasses have been identified. Most significant impacts based on evaluation will be from excavation works where the impacts have been identified to be moderately significant. With regards to mitigating most severe impacts, work will be carried out during low and on calm days in order to reduce spread of sedimentation related impacts. Although there are some environmental impacts from the proposed project, most of these impacts can be reduced and mitigated by use of appropriate methodology and timing. The effectiveness of these methodologies can be documented by implementing a comprehensive monitoring programme. Also, with positive socio-economic outlook of the project and the community needs for the project, it is concluded that the project should go ahead as planned.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for proposed coastal protection works in AA. Ukulhas Island
(2015-10) Zuhair, Mohamed; Shakir, Ibrahim
The Project is proposed by Ministry of Environment and Energy for undertaking coastal protection measures on the northern shoreline of AA. Ukulhas Island. The focus of the project is to protect the northern side of AA. Ukulhas Island as the area is currently undergoing serious beach erosion, which is currently reaching up to island infrastructures. In order to protect the area, the Ministry of Environment and Energy proposes to undertake beach replenishment of a 6,600sqm area on the north and design and construct a 280m long rock boulder revetment along the replenished shoreline. The project has been awarded to Sas e Senok JV Pvt. Ltd. on design and built basis. As the contractor for the project, Sas e Senok JV Pvt. Ltd. has undertaken the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Report to be submitted to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for approval. This EIA is prepared as per the Terms of Reference (TOR) approved by Environment Protection Agency (EPA) on 23 September 2015. The scope of this EIA is to assess the existing environmental condition of Ukulhas Island and surrounding environment, identify potential environmental impacts, propose environmental management and mitigation measures to minimize environmental impacts as well as propose an environmental monitoring plan with appropriate environmental parameters to monitor changes on a regular basis. Ukulhas Island is located at 4°12'56.35"N and 72°51'49.13"E in a single reef found on the NE corner of North Ari Atoll. Both the island and reef is elliptical in shape and has a SE and NW orientation. The length and width of the island are approximately 1000m and 215m respectively. The area of the island is estimated to be 22ha. Main environmental impacts from the proposed project will be from sedimentation including water quality deterioration, reef damage as well as direct destruction of lagoon habitats within the project boundary. Although, these impacts are inevitable, it is effects can be reduced by implementing various environmental management and mitigation measures such as undertaking sand pumping and beach nourishment operations coinciding with low tide and on calm days as well as undertaking the operations in the quickest possible timeframe to reduce impact exposure period. During the operation of the resort, solid waste and wastewater disposal as well as certain tourist activities is believed to generate the most significant environmental impacts especially on the marine environment where the impacts may range from marine pollution, water quality deterioration, potential health risks, destruction of marine habitats as well as aesthetic and cumulative impacts. The project is believed to generate a number of beneficial impacts. These include protection of a critical island environment, protection of school and waste management center. With regards to mitigating and reducing significant environmental impacts from the project, the following measures including use physical barriers such as earthen berms, sand beds and rock boundaries to close reclamation areas, undertake the activities in shortest possible time and on calm days at low tides, reclamation to be undertaken in sections within the boundary, directing sedimentation into the deep lagoon area and number of other measures have been proposed. Although during construction of the project, significant environmental impacts from dredging and land reclamation activities as a result of sedimentation and direct destruction of habitats have been envisaged, with appropriate environmental management and mitigation measures, these impacts will be reduced to a considerable level. Also, with positive social outlook of the project and considering the overall need for the project, it is concluded that the project should go ahead as planned.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for proposed coastal protection works in Dh. Maaenboodhoo Island
(2015-11) Zuhair, Mohamed; Shakir, Ibrahim
The proposed project is to protect areas affected by beach erosion on the NE, SE, NW and SW of Dh. Maaenboodhoo Island by means of rock boulder revetment breakwater and geobag revetment. In this regard, it is proposed to build a 220m long rock boulder revetment breakwater along the NE side, 550m long rock boulder revetment breakwater along the SE side, 225m long geo-bag revetment along the NW shoreline and 190m long geo-bag revetment along the SW shoreline of the island. Furthermore, profiling and backfilling of beach areas on the NW and SW sides as well as obtaining core fill material for the rock boulder revetments are an important part of the proposed project. As the proponent of the project, it is proposed by Ministry of Environment and Energy and has been awarded to Sas e Senok JV Pvt. Ltd. on design and built basis. As the contractor for the project, Sas e Senok JV Pvt. Ltd. has undertaken the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Report to be submitted to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for approval. This EIA is prepared as per the Terms of Reference (TOR) approved by Environment Protection Agency (EPA) on 23 September 2015. The scope of this EIA is to assess the existing environmental condition of Maaenboodhoo Island and surrounding environment, identify potential environmental impacts, propose environmental management and mitigation measures to minimize environmental impacts as well as propose an environmental monitoring plan with appropriate environmental parameters to monitor changes during construction and post construction stages of the development. Maaenboodhoo Island is found at Longitude 72.963335 and Latitude 2.695566 in a 5km long reef found on the southern periphery of Dhaalu Atoll. The island is found in the NE tip of the reef and has a NE-SW orientation. The longest point of the island has approximately 950m and the widest point has approximately 350m. The average area of the island is about 20.4ha. Main environmental impacts from the proposed project will be from sedimentation including water quality deterioration, reef damage as well as direct destruction of lagoon habitats within the project boundary as well as permanent changes to the shoreline of the island where project activities will be implemented. Although, these impacts are inevitable, it is effects can be reduced by implementing various environmental management and mitigation measures such as undertaking the activities of the project coinciding with low tide and on calm days as well as undertaking the operations in the quickest possible timeframe to reduce impact exposure period and construct physical barriers to reduce sedimentation. During post construction, environmental impacts identified include risk of flooding in land fill areas as well as physical damage to geo bag revetments as a result of excessive and some destructive use. The key benefit of the project is to protect the shorelines of the island from further beach erosion and protect infrastructure on the island. With regards to mitigating and reducing significant environmental impacts from the project, the following measures including use of physical barriers such as sand beds and undertake the activities in shortest possible time and on calm days at low tides, as well as directing sedimentation into the deep lagoon area and number of other measures have been proposed. Although there are a number of environmental impacts from the proposed development, some of these can bring permanent changes to the environment of the island, other impacts can be reduced and mitigated by use of appropriate methodology. The effectiveness of these methodologies can be documented by implementing a comprehensive monitoring programme. Also, with positive social outlook of the project and considering the overall need for the project, it is concluded that the project should go ahead as planned.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for proposed costal protection works in S. Hulhudhoo, Addu City, Maldives
(2017-02-01) Zuhair, Mohamed; Fathah, Mariyam Shujaa Ath A.; Shareef, Mohamed
1. The purpose of this EIA is to critically analyse and assess the potential environmental impacts associated with the construction of revetment at the eastern coast of S. Hulhudhoo and associated dredging of burrow area and expose the solutions and preferred alternatives as well as mitigation measures to minimize any negative impacts whilst trying to derive the maximum positive impacts from the project; 2. The study area, Hulhudhoo, lying on the outer reef of the southernmost Atoll of Maldives, is exposed to southern swell waves and refracted south west monsoon sea waves. As a result of the swell waves, a large area of the shoreline on the eastern side in Hulhudhoo has been eroded. The extend of erosion is about 1 km north of the existing seawall. This seawall was constructed in the year 2008 and is in need of repair. Evidently, shoreline protection on this island is required immediately, especially since human settlement area is very close to this affected area. The closest residential area to the eroded area is only about 50 ft. 3. Proposed project involves dredging of a lagoon area at the western side of this island at the access channel area to source fill material for the revetment construction and for back filling purposes; 4. A full baseline of seawater quality and marine environment was established at the proposed burrow area as well as the revetment area. Marine environment study showed that both the areas were abundant with seagrass communities; 5. Dredging of burrow area is expected to cause degradation of the marine environment due to sediment stir up and loss of marine habitat whereas impacts on the revetment area is mainly due to reclamation/backfilling works; 6. Proposed mitigation measures include daily maintenance of machinery, following chemical handling procedures, waste segregation and storage in closed labelled containers until disposal; 7. Overall, the proposed project is expected to bring in positive outcomes. It is expected that the newly established revetment will bring an end to erosion of eastern coast of Hulhudhoo and improve shore zone configuration as well; and 8. Monitoring is essential to ensure that environmental thresholds are not exceeded and mitigation measures proposed are working. Water quality and marine environment monitoring shall be done as per the proposed monitoring schedule
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for proposed farming development project in B. Aidhoo Island
(2016-11) Zuhair, Mohamed; Shakir, Ibrahim
Mr. Mohamed Saeed of M. Snowflakes has proposed to develop a farming project on Aidhoo Island located in Baa Atoll. As part of the project, it is proposed to undertake different types of farming methods by using modern technology including setting up of a vertical farm, hydroponics farm, orchid farm and container farm. Separate plots will be developed for each farming method where lettuce, tomato, melon, chili, cucumber, bell pepper, etc are proposed to be produced. The project will be developed with all support facilities, services and infrastructure. This EIA is prepared as per the Terms of Reference (TOR) approved by Environment Protection Agency (EPA) on 19 October 2016. For such development projects, a mandatory EIA is required as per the EIA Regulations of 2012 before commencement of any activity relating to the project. The scope of this EIA is to assess the existing environmental condition of Aidhoo Island and surrounding environment, identify potential environmental impacts, propose environmental management and mitigation measures to minimize environmental impacts as well as propose an environmental monitoring plan with appropriate environmental parameters to monitor changes on a regular basis. Aidhoo Island is located at 5°11'13.73"N and 73°9'48.93"Eand is found on the eastern periphery of Baa Atoll rim in a single reef system. The island is found on the western parts of the reef in an elliptical shape similar to the reef and has an orientation from E-W. The closest inhabited island is Dhonfanu located at 4.2km west, the closest tourist resort is Kihaad Maldives located at 3km west and the closes uninhabited island is Hanifaru Island found within Hanifaru Marine Protected Area located at 1.5km SW of Aidhoo. The Domestic Airport in Dhravandhoo is found 4.5km south. The island is about 280m long from the longest point and 115m wide from the widest point and has an approximate area of 2.3ha. The island has healthy vegetation in the middle parts and young and pioneering vegetation all around it. A dynamic sand spit is found on the western tip of the island while surf breaks are found on the eastern side of the island. During the construction period, key environmental impacts are believed to occur from site clearing and construction waste disposal. During operation a number of significant environmental impacts have also been envisaged including solid waste disposal and inappropriate methods of wastewater disposal from the island will generate long-term impacts on the environment including effects on island environment, changes in reef community structure, damage to coral reefs and degraded seawater quality, etc The socio-economic impacts of the proposed development have been identified to be mostly positive. These include, opening of new employment opportunities, contribution to improving living standards of nearby communities through direct and indirect economic benefits, development of skills as well as contribution to the local economy from the above. In order to mitigate and reduce environmental impacts from the proposed project, key considerations have been given to minimize vegetation clearance on island for facilities and farming development, development of an appropriate waste management center with equipment and staff. An Environmental Monitoring Plan, which will be implemented during construction and operation phases of the development will be undertaken. An environmental monitoring report will be prepared twice a year, which will be submitted to relevant government authorities. Although there are a number of environmental impacts from the proposed development, most of these impacts can be reduced and mitigated by use of appropriate methodology. The effectiveness of these methodologies can be documented by implementing a comprehensive monitoring programme. Also, with positive social and economic outlook of the project and considering the overall contribution of the project to local and national economies, it is concluded that the project could be undertaken.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for proposed water production and distribution facility at Guraidhoo Guraidhoo, Thaa Atoll, Maldives
(2016-12-01) Zuhair, Mohamed; Fathah, Mariyam Shujaa Ath A.; Shareef, Mohamed
1. The purpose of this EIA is to critically analyse and assess the potential environmental impacts associated with the development of the proposed water production and distribution facility at Th. Guraidhoo and expose the solutions and preferred alternatives as well as mitigation measures to minimize any negative impacts whilst trying to derive the maximum positive impacts from the project; 2. Currently, rainwater is widely used in all houses as cooking water and groundwater is used for various other domestic uses. Almost all houses have a rainwater storage tank. Bottled water is now mainly used as drinking water. Although groundwater on this island is in a good condition, excessive use of this water runs the risk of depletion of groundwater lens similar to other inhabited islands of Maldives. Even though rainwater is widely used, it is not a reliable source as rainwater cannot be collected during dry season. Therefore, it is understood that residents of Guaridhoo are in need of an alternate clean water facility; 3. In the proposed facility the water production system is designed for 15 years whereas the distribution system for 35 years; 4. Proposed project involves installation of an RO plant with a capacity of 80 tonnes per day with three independent drains. Seawater intake is proposed from two bore wells 30 m deep at a site near the desalination plant. In addition to the bore wells, the facility will also incorporate rain water collected from public roofs, hence this is an integrated water resource management facility. Project also includes laying of distribution pipeline to existing household and a fire hydrant system; 5. A full baseline of groundwater quality, seawater quality, vegetation clearance and marine environment was established. Marine environment study showed that living substrata and fish count at the proposed outfall location was low; 6. The construction works of new RO plant presented in this report are not expected to adversely impact the environment if the mitigation measures mentioned in the report are followed. The most important mitigation measures are daily maintenance of machinery, following chemical handling procedures, waste segregation and storage in closed labelled containers until disposal; 7. Overall, the proposed project is expected to bring in positive outcomes. It is expected that the newly established water production and distribution facility will ensure water security to the population of Guraidhoo; and 8. Monitoring is essential to ensure that environmental thresholds are not exceeded and mitigation measures proposed are working. Water quality and marine environment monitoring shall be done as per the proposed monitoring schedule.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for resort development in K. Akirifushi, North Male’ Atoll
(2014-08) Riyaz, Mahmood; Zuhair, Mohamed
This is the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report carried out for Akirifushi Investmentt Pvt. Ltd to develop and operate a resort in Akirifushi Island located in North Western part of Male Atoll. Akirifushi development project involves creation of land through reclamation and develop and operate 70 room high-end tourist resort with all the necessary facilities and amnesties. The EIA was prepared as fulfilment of the requirement by the Ministry Tourism (MoT) for granting permission for the project. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) of development projects is a requirement by the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act (EPPA) (law 4/93) of the Government of the Republic of Maldives. The total cost of the proposed project is approximately 20 million USD. The project will be developed within 18 months. The project will create a relatively large number of direct and indirect employment opportunities for the Maldives. Therefore the project will significantly contribute to the economic growth, particularly tourism sector, and other relevant socioeconomic activities This report has been prepared in accordance with the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations published by the Ministry of Environment and Energy 2012 and covers both negative and positive environmental and socio-economic impact arising from the proposed project in Akirifushi Island. Major findings of this report are based on information gathered during the field inspection of both the existing environment and possible effects of the project activities, through extensive literature review and experiences gained from similar projects elsewhere in the Maldives. The proposed project activity will take place on Akririfushi Island and Falhu. Akirifushi Island is an uninhabited island and lies in an E-W oriented triangular shape reef on the western periphery of North Male Atoll. The island is situated on the south western end of Akirifushi Falhu in a north south orientation. Akirifushi ISland is a vegetated rubble cay (Huraa). Vegetated area of Akirifushi is approximately 8000 m2 and island area is approximately 1.4 hectares. Total area of the reef where Akirifushi Island is situated is approximately 75 hectares. After the land reclamation the area of the island will be 8.2 hectares. The island is characterized by fairly young natural vegetation mainly consisting of Kaani, Hirundhu, Dhigga, to a great extent and Magoo, Kuredhi, Boa Kashikeyo and Boashi to a smaller extent in the coastline. A small area covered in Kandoo (mangrove) is found on the northern side of the island in a slight depression where the ground gets occasionally flooded from tidal fluctuations. Only a couple of planted young Ruh were found in the middle of the island. The dominant vegetation on the island was observed to be Kaani, which was mostly found on the eastern parts as well as mixed with other vegetation such as Dhigga and Hirundhu in the middle parts. On the southern side, patches of Magoo were observed while on some of the northern parts mixed coastal vegetation including Magoo, Kuredhi, Boa kashikeyo and Boashi were found Akirifushi Island is found in a single reef on the NW rim of North Male’ Atoll. The reef is triangular in shape with western side slightly curved and the island is located almost at the edge of this curvature. The length of the reef including the reef slope from west to east is estimated to be 1km and the width of the reef from north to south is estimated to be 960m. The total area of the reef is estimated to be 75ha with most parts found in shallow lagoon. The large and deep Vilu on the eastern side of the island occupies almost 15% of the whole reef, while the island and the smaller Vilu on the northern side occupy approximately only 3% each of the whole reef. Hence, the shallow lagoon of the reef is approximately 79% and mostly comprised of sand and rubble, while the western side mostly composed of dead rocks. The general condition of the reef in terms of percent live coral cover is low approximately 10%. During the preparation of the EIA report an impact matrix, which is a standard tool for identifying the possible impacts of project activities, has been created for proposed development project in Akirifushi Island. The activities carried out during the construction and post-construction or operational phases are arrayed against a selection of environmental factors that may be affected directly or indirectly as a result of project activities. The report has identified and described in detail possible change that would occur to the existing condition of the environment caused during the construction phase and have suggested appropriate mitigation measures for each and every impact identified in the report. Dredging has been identified as the most significant negative environmental impact that could be associated with the proposed development. Liquid, solid and other forms of wastes and particularly hazardous waste generated during the construction and operational phase has also been identified as significant impact associated with the project and appropriate mitigation measures are suggested for each and every waste related impact identified in the study. The study has evaluated alternative options for some components of the project and has suggested some modifications to the shape of reclaimed area. Also the report found, based on the similar project activities elsewhere in the Maldives, the island and the reef will recover from the expected impacts rapidly and will re-establish a new ecological balance soon. However the report has come-up with an extensive monitoring programme that will keep on monitoring the environmental changes associated with the development and make necessary adjustment to the activities of the project based on the findings of various measured environmental parameters suggested in the monitoring plan. The report has identified the following beneficial effects form resort development in Akirifushi:  Increased direct employment and training opportunities;  Improvements in environmental quality of the island;  Stimulation of local economy, cultivation and small business opportunities for nearby island communities; and  Increased government revenue and increased GDP. The report found no evidence that the resort development in Akirifushi requires or involves any of the following environmental or socio-economic impacts.  loss of unique habitat or wilderness areas;  resettling of local communities;  removing or destroying cultural properties;  contravening national government of the Republic of Maldives, or island community policies, regulations, criteria, customs or aspirations concerning environment, economy, employment, cultural traditions or life styles. On the basis this environmental impact assessment study and the impact mitigation measures proposed in the report will be duly implemented and recommendations are given due consideration, it is concluded that the benefits of the planned resort development in Akirifushi Island will substantially outweigh its imposition on the environment.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for resort development in K. Kodhipparu, North Male Atoll
(2014-04) Riyaz, Mahmood; Zuhair, Mohamed
This is the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report carried out for Kodhipparu Investment Pvt. Ltd to develop and operate a three star resort development in Kodhipparu Island located in North Malé Atoll. The proposed project includes development of 108 guest rooms and necessary infrastructure to establish and operate the resort in Kodhipparu Island. The EIA was prepared as fulfilment of the requirement by the Ministry Tourism (MoT) for granting permission for the project. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) of development projects is a requirement by the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act (EPPA) (law 4/93) of the Government of the Republic of Maldives. The total cost of the proposed project is approximately 15 million USD. The project will be developed within 18 months. The project will create a relatively large number of direct and indirect employment opportunities throughout the country. Therefore the project will significantly contribute to the economic growth, particularly tourism sector, and other relevant socio-economic activities This report has been prepared in accordance with the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations published by the Ministry of Environment and Energy 2012 and covers both negative and positive environmental and socio-economic impact arising from the proposed project in Kodhipparu Island. Major findings of this report are based on information gathered during the field inspection of both the existing environment and possible effects of the project activities, through extensive literature review and experiences gained from similar projects elsewhere in the Maldives. The proposed project activity will take place in Kodhipparu Island (man-made island by accumulating sand through use of coastal structures and reclamation). The island lies on an irregular shape reef, with a deep lagoon at the center. Kodhipparu Island is located on the eastern end of the E-W oriented Kodhipparu Falhu on the southwestern side of North Malé Atoll. Kodhipparu being located on the southwester rim of the atoll it is exposed to high energy oceanic swells during the southwest monsoon and refracted, reflected and regenerated indirect fetch waves during the northeasterly monsoon. Due to the exposure of Kodhipparu reef to the direct oceanic waves during southwest monsoon the calmest area within the Falhu is on the eastern end. Hence Mr.Ali Fulhu who started constructing the island was aware that the eastern end of the reef is the most stable area with the least energy within Kodhipparu Falhu. The fact that Kodhipparu Island being a man-made island it does not have a proper soil layer with humus content. Most of the existing plant species are very young and introduced by the workers in order to stabilize the cay and hold sediments. Most of the vegetation consists of very basic salt and spray tolerant coastal plants, dominated mainly with, Scaevola sp. Tournafortia sp. Pemphis sp. and some coastal shrubs. Recently planted beach hibiscus, coconut trees, and Thespesia sp exist at the central part of the island. Love birds and parrots are being introduced and reared at the island in cages. Shorebirds and seabirds were known to visit the island. Two species of reptiles were observed, these were the mourning gecko (Lapidodactylus lugubris) and the garden lizard (Calotes versicolor). The overall reef of Kodhipparu reef is not in a good condition. Generally the live coral cover does not exceed 10% in any part of the surveyed area and consists of coral mainly branching and table corals. Percentage of dead coral was found to be very high 30-75% in most areas, particularly on the northern and northwestern side. The water in Kodhipparu is highly saline and not usable for washing or gardening. At present fresh water on the island is transported from Malé and supplemented by the rainwater catchments. During the preparation of the EIA report an impact matrix, which is a standard tool for identifying the possible impacts of project activities, has been created for proposed development project in Kodhipparu. The activities carried out during the construction and post-construction or operational phases are arrayed against a selection of environmental factors that may be affected directly or indirectly as a result of project activities. The report has identified and described in detail possible change that would occur to the existing condition of the environment caused during the construction phase and have suggested appropriate mitigation measures for each and every impact identified in the report. Sedimentation and increase in suspended sediment level in the water, has been identified as the most significant negative environmental impact that could be associated with the entrance clearance. Liquid, solid and other forms of wastes and particularly hazardous waste generated during the construction and operational phase has also been identified as significant impact associated with the project and appropriate mitigation measures are suggested for each and every waste related impact identified in the study. The study has evaluated alternative options for some components of the project and has suggested some modifications for resort layout and landscaping. Also the report found, based on the similar project activities elsewhere in the Maldives, the island and the reef will recover from the expected impacts rapidly and will re-establish a new ecological balance soon. However the report has come-up with an extensive monitoring programme that will keep on monitoring the environmental changes associated with the development and make necessary adjustment to the activities of the project based on the findings of various measured environmental parameters suggested in the monitoring plan. The report has identified the following beneficial effects form resort development in Kodhipparu:  Increased direct employment and training opportunities;  Better guardianship of the terrestrial and marine resources of Kodhipparu Island;  Improvements in environmental quality of the island;  Stimulation of local economy, cultivation and small business opportunities within the nearby island communities; and  Increased government revenue and increased GDP. The report found no evidence that the resort development in Kodhipparu requires or involves any of the following environmental or socio-economic impacts.  loss of unique habitat or wilderness areas;  resettling of local communities;  removing or destroying cultural properties;  contravening national government of the Republic of Maldives, or island community policies, regulations, criteria, customs or aspirations concerning environment, economy, employment, cultural traditions or life styles. On the basis this environmental impact assessment study and the impact mitigation measures proposed in the report will be duly implemented and recommendations are given due consideration, it is concluded that the benefits of the planned development in Kodhipparu Island will substantially outweigh its imposition on the environment.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for resort development in K. Kuda Bandos, North Malé Atoll
(2014-06) Riyaz, Mahmood; Zuhair, Mohamed; Shakir, Ibrahim
In mid-2005 and early 2000 the government leased large number of uninhabited islands for development of picnic islands for a relatively low rent. Those picnic island were developed and most of them are used as exclusive high end tourist resort, but the revenue generated for the government from those islands are very low due to low land rent. Therefore in order to generate more revenue to the Government the cabinet during the MDP Government decided to eliminate all picnic island and allocated them for resort developments. This decision was enforced in 2012. In this respect if the picnic island is within 700m radius of an existing resort the government offered the island to the resort if they are willing to pay the acquisition cost of the island, which is about 6 million US$ per hectares. Malahini Holdings Pvt. Ltd, paid the acquisition cost of Kuda Bandos Island and decided to convert the island to a mixed local and foreign tourist resort retaining the local picnic concept, and established Malahini Holdings Pvt. Ltd which is a joint venture company with 10% share of the Government of Maldives. This is the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report carried out for Malahini Holdings Pvt. Ltd to develop and operate a resort for mixed local and foreign tourist in K. Kuda Bandos Island located in North Central part of Malé Atoll. Kuda Bandos development project involves development and operation of 90 rooms, two and half-three star resort, with all the necessary facilities and amnesties. The EIA was prepared as fulfilment of the requirement by the Ministry Tourism (MoT) for granting permission for the project. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) of development projects is a requirement by the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act (EPPA) (law 4/93) of the Government of the Republic of Maldives. The total cost of the proposed project is approximately 13.5 million USD. The project will be developed within 18 months. The project will create a relatively large number of direct and indirect employment opportunities for the Maldives. Therefore the project will significantly contribute to the economic growth, particularly tourism sector, and other relevant socioeconomic activities. This report has been prepared in accordance with the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations published by the Ministry of Environment and Energy 2012 and covers both negative and positive environmental and socio-economic impact arising from the proposed project in Kuda Bandos Island. Major findings of this report are based on information gathered during the field inspection of both the existing environment and possible effects of the project activities, through extensive literature review and experiences gained from similar projects elsewhere in the Maldives. The proposed project activity will take place on Kuda Bandos Island, an uninhabited island lies in an N-S oriented triangular shape reef on the central part of North Malé Atoll. The island is situated on the southern end of Kuda Bandos Falhu. Vegetated area of Kuda Bandos is approximately 3.27 hectares and island area is approximately 3.9 hectares. Total area of the reef where Kuda Bandos Island is situated is approximately 11.3 hectares and the total area of the reef flat is 5.8 hectares. After the proposed development the total built-up area of the island will be 7,450 m2 which is about 18% of the total land area of the island. Kuda Bandos Island has thick and healthy vegetation all around and inside the island. The canopy of the island is generally high all around the island except for the northern and western sides where a well-established vegetation mostly consisting of mature Funa, Dhigga, Magoo, Kuredhi, young Ruh, Boakashikeyo and Uni. In general, it can be estimated that the vegetation constituent of the island can be divided into around 50-55% Ruh, 20-25% trees such as Dhigga, Funa, Kaani, Uni, Magoo and Boakashikeyo and 15-20% comprising of introduced vegetation used for landscaping such as Saima, Kandholhu, Farudhaa Bageechaa, Croyton and others. Kuda Bandos is formed within its own coral reef system inside the atoll. The coral reef is triangular in shape and the island is found in the middle of the triangle in an egg-shape. This coral reef system has a perimeter of approximately 1.3km measuring from the outer reef edge. Kuda Bandos coral reef covers an area of approximately 7 hectares including the reef slope and the reef-flat. The general reef condition can be regarded as fairly good with increasing live coral cover of 12% on average and diversity towards the northern side of the reef. The lagoon system of Kuda Bandos has an average depth of 1 – 1.2m during high tide periods. It is a relatively small lagoon which is only found from north-east to the eastern side of the island having an approximate area of 8,745m2. The lagoon found on the north-west, west and south-western sides of the island are saturated with beach areas hence, very narrow areas of the lagoon were visible at the time of the assessments. During the preparation of the EIA report an impact matrix, which is a standard tool for identifying the possible impacts of project activities, has been created for proposed development project in Kuda Bandos Island. The activities carried out during the construction and post-construction or operational phases are arrayed against a selection of environmental factors that may be affected directly or indirectly as a result of project activities. The report has identified and described in detail possible change that would occur to the existing condition of the environment caused during the construction phase and have suggested appropriate mitigation measures for each and every impact identified in the report. Vegetation clearance has been identified as the most significant negative environmental impact that could be associated with the proposed development. Liquid, solid and other forms of wastes and particularly hazardous waste generated during the construction and operational phase has also been identified as significant impact associated with the project and appropriate mitigation measures are suggested for each and every waste related impact identified in the study. The study has evaluated alternative options for some components of the project and has suggested some modifications to the proposed layout based on the considerations given to the maximum land use and preserve the existing trees and minimise vegetation clearance which will have more impacts on the island. The report has come-up with an extensive monitoring programme that will keep on monitoring the environmental changes associated with the development and make necessary adjustment to the activities of the project based on the findings of various measured environmental parameters suggested in the monitoring plan. As part of the assigned tasks of EIA a list of stakeholders were provided in the TOR to undertake extensive stakeholder consolation during the EIA preparation process. This is because some concerns were raised by the media, soon after the Government’s decision to convert Kuda Bandos to a resort, stating that the island will be closed for local picnics after the development. The issue was discussed with the stakeholders and the truth about the misconception was cleared during the consultation. All the stakeholders except Malé City Council welcomed the proposed development. Malé City Council is on the opinion that Kuda Bandos is the only remaining island near Malé for the picnickers from Malé City and it is the only place where people of this congested city can go and take a breath of fresh air. Therefore they are in the opinion that resort development in Kuda Bandos should not go ahead and the island should be left as it is only for the picnickers from Malé despite the fact that the island will still be accessible for local picnickers after the proposed resort development. The following improvements for the facilities for picnickers and camping site in Kuda Bandos was suggested by the stakeholders during the discussions. 1. Increase the number of public toilets and improve the quality and maintenance 2. Provision of feeding rooms for babies 3. Increase the number of showerheads and properly maintain the water network 4. Increase the number of life guards and first aid facilities 5. Increase the number of guest rooms allocated for the Maldivians 6. Properly demark the picnic and tourist areas with appropriate signage The report has identified the following beneficial effects form resort development in Kuda Bandos:  Establishment of local tourism opportunities mixed with international tourism  Establishment of readily available picnic facilities and other amenities such BBQ pits, dining areas etc.  Increased direct employment and training opportunities;  Better guardianship of the terrestrial and marine resources of Kuda Bandos Island;  Improvements in environmental quality of the island;  Stimulation of local economy, cultivation and small business opportunities within the nearby island communities; and  Increased government revenue and increased GDP. The report found no evidence that the resort development in Kuda Bandos requires or involves any of the following environmental or socio-economic impacts.  loss of unique habitat or wilderness areas;  resettling of local communities;  removing or destroying cultural properties;  contravening national government of the Republic of Maldives, or island community policies, regulations, criteria, customs or aspirations concerning environment, economy, employment, cultural traditions or life styles. On the basis of this environmental impact assessment study and the impact mitigation measures proposed in the report will be duly implemented and recommendations are given due consideration, it is concluded that the benefits of the proposed resort development in Kuda Bandos will substantially outweigh its imposition on the environment.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for the proposed 10-storey mixed use residential complex in Block D10-4C, Hulhumale’
(2016-12) Zuhair, Mohamed; Shakir, Ibrahim
Batch Construction Pvt. Ltd. proposes to develop a 10-storey mixed-use residential and commercial complex in Block D10-4C in Hulumale. The Block is located on Fithuroanu Magu on the western side of Hulhumale’. The total area of the plot is 14,767ft2. With a setback, the total building footprint area will be 11,357ft2. Hence, a total of 3,410ft2 will be left as open space within the plot. Upon completion of the proposed project, the complex will have 2 – 3 bedroom 69 residential apartments (Second Floor to Ninth Floor). The Ground Floor and First Floors of the complex will be developed as commercial, parking and access ways. This EIA is prepared as per the Terms of Reference (TOR) approved by Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on 24 November 2016. It is a legal requirement under the Amended EIA Regulation to prepare and approve EIAs for commercial, economic and development projects enlisted in Schedule D. Environmental clearance is obtained through approval of the EIA and issuance of EIA Decision Statement from EPA. Block D10-4C is located at 4°12'49.17"N / 73°32'14.18"E on the western side of Hulhumale’ on Fithroanu Magu. In order to understand existing environmental conditions of Block D10-4C, assessments have been undertaken including noise levels, traffic flow and volume, ecological and structural assessments, and groundwater.. The highest noise level was recorded at Site 2 close to the project site having 58dB. This is because of the Customs Area located in front of the plot where a number of vehicles have been observed by the area. Noise levels at Site 1 and Site 3 were 56dB and 49dB respectively along Fithuroanu Magu. The least noise level was recorded at Site 4 behind the project plot having 44dB. Fithuroanu Magu is a main road found along the western side of Hulhumale’ that connects to the main ferry terminal. Two-way traffic flow by the project site has been observed. The highest traffic along the road recorded was from motorcycles having 34 during the hourly period. The road is also a regular bus route and around 8 bus trips were recorded during the same hour. There is no vegetation found inside the project boundary. However, some mature vegetation primarily consisting of Beefwood (Grevillea spp), which has been planted along the roadside are found. These plants are outside of the proposed plot, hence, there is no requirement for removing these vegetation. There are no existing building adjacent to the project area. Condition of the roads around the proposed project site is observed to be in good condition. No cracks or physical damages are observed on the roads. The environmental impacts that may be associated with the proposed project are predicted and assumed in the EIA Report. These environmental impacts are divided into construction phase and operation phase environmental impacts. Most of the construction phase environmental impacts are believed to occur from excavation, dewatering, construction activities, operation of construction machinery and vehicles and construction waste disposal. The main environmental impacts believed to occur during operation phase of the project include household waste and increased traffic within and around areas. As part of the proposed project, a number of mitigation measures have been proposed in the EIA Report including using corrugated sheets supported by iron beams as a safety measure for protecting the excavated area for foundation, dewatering will be undertaken in opens spaces in Hulhumale to reduce loss of ground water, while preparing the site ready for construction, measures such as installation of safety and dust protection nets, appropriate signage will be placed to make aware people on the development. Also, important mitigation measures that will be implemented include complete elimination of waste disposal during construction and operation stages of the development into the project boundaries as well as promotion of a greener lifestyle have identified important aspects of the proposed development. The overall environmental performance will be monitored by an environmental monitoring framework that will be implemented as part of the proposed development of the mixed use residential complex. Although during construction of the project, negative environmental impacts from construction activities have been envisaged, with appropriate environmental management and mitigation measures, these impacts will be reduced to a considerable level. Also, with positive socio-economic outlook of the project and considering the overall importance of such a development in Hulhumale’ to alleviate housing stress, it is concluded that the project should go ahead as planned.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for the proposed 11-storey building development at H. Finimaage Aage, Male’
(2016-07) Zuhair, Mohamed
Mr. Abbas Waheed of H. Finimaage Aage proposes to develop an 11-Storey Building at H. Finimaage found in Block 21 on Bodufungandu Magu in Male’. The development comprises of 18 apartments, a car park at the ground floor and a shop at the basement. The total built-up area will be 1,020ft2 and the remaining 38ft2 will be left as open space. The basement will have an area of 617.85ft2. This EIA Report has been prepared in compliance fulfillment of the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act of Maldives (Law No. 4/93) and the Schedule D of the EIA Regulations 2012 towards getting environmental clearance to implement the project. In order to understand existing environmental conditions of the proposed project area, assessments have been undertaken including ambient noise levels, traffic volume and movement, groundwater, vegetation, physical condition of the surrounding buildings and roads were assessed. The highest noise levels recorded were from the southern side of the plot at the junction of Bodufungandu Magu and Burevi Magu having 53dB. The noise level in front of the plot is 49dB. The traffic flow is from south to north by the proposed plot and the majority of the traffic volume is motor cycles. An hourly flow of 52 motorcycles have been recorded. There is no vegetation found within the plot as it is entirely covered with an existing building. The adjacent plots including Finimaage, Meydhamaizandhoshuge, Elnilum and Elpaso all have existing buildings and there are no vegetation found in the immediate surrounding areas either. There are two existing buildings found adjacent to the proposed plot. A 5 storey building found in Finimaage located on the south of the plot and 2 storey and 3 storey blocks found in Meydhamaizandhoshuge located on the north of the plot. The entire plot has an existing building, most of which are single storey. However, two small areas within the plot presently have two storeys used for residential purpose. The condition of the road Bodufungandu Magu in which the plot is found was observed to be in good condition. No cracks or physical damages were observed. The environmental impacts that may be associated with the proposed project are predicted and assumed in the EIA Report. These environmental impacts are divided into construction phase and operation phase environmental impacts. Most of the construction phase environmental impacts are believed to occur from demolition, excavation, dewatering, construction activities, operation of construction machinery and vehicles and construction waste disposal. The main environmental impacts believed to occur during operation phase of the project include household waste and increased traffic. As part of the proposed project, a number of mitigation measures have been proposed in the EIA Report including using corrugated sheets supported by iron beams as a safety measure for protecting the excavated area for foundation, dewatering will be undertaken upon approval from EPA, while preparing the site ready for construction, measures such as installation of safety and dust protection nets, appropriate signage will be placed to make aware people on the development. Also, important mitigation measures that will be implemented include complete elimination of waste disposal during construction and operation stages of the development into the project boundaries. Although during construction of the project, negative environmental impacts from construction activities have been envisaged, with appropriate environmental management and mitigation measures, these impacts will be reduced to a considerable level. Also, with positive socio-economic outlook of the project and considering the overall importance of residential units in Male’ to alleviate housing stress, it is concluded that the project should go ahead as planned.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for the proposed 20-storey Rehendhi 5 building, Male’
(2016-10) Zuhair, Mohamed; Shakir, Ibrahim
The project is proposed by AMIN Construction Pvt. Ltd. on contractor-finance basis to develop a 20-storey Rehendhi 5 building primarily for mixed use commercial and residential purpose with a basement car part and commercial podiums on ground and first floors, a total of 85 apartments from 2nd floor to 18th floor. Each floor will have 2 – 3 bedroom 5 units. A rooftop for outdoor uses will be developed at the top level of the building. The building will occupy 687m2. The building is proposed to be developed in Block 363. The EIA has been prepared as per the EIA Regulations 2012 developed directly under the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act and identifies that development of such buildings exceeding 31m in height and with basements or over 10 storeys with greater than 5ft foundation require an EIA to be undertaken and approved by EPA before commencement of construction. In order to understand existing environmental conditions of the proposed project area, assessments have been undertaken including ambient noise levels, traffic volume and movement, groundwater quality, vegetation, physical condition of the surrounding buildings and roads were undertaken. The highest noise levels recorded were from Ameenee Magu, northern side of the proposed project area having 55dB and 56dB. The existing traffic flow is around the Block 363 with heavy traffic on Ameenee Magu. The highest traffic recorded was from motorcycle having an hourly flow of 102 motorcycles. There is no vegetation present in the proposed plot. The area is currently used for parking damaged vehicles and a car park. The adjacent buildings by the proposed plot include Rehendhi 1, Rehendhi 2, Rehendhi 3 and Rehendhi 6. Of these buildings, Rehendhi 1 and Rehendhi 2 now have residents and Rehendhi 3 has been recently completed and Rehendhi 6 is under construction. Other notable buildings in close proximity to the project area include, the Male’ Square, 3 storey block in Imaaduddin School and TVM building (single storey). Of these buildings, some minor cracks are observed on TVM building in the corner. No major physical damages of are observed in these buildings located in the vicinity of the project site. There are no significant environmental impacts from the proposed project, however, some of the environmental impacts from development activities such as dewatering, construction activities, operation of construction machinery, construction waste generating environmental impacts such as noise, dust and pollution are believed to occur. Social impacts such as traffic congestion, disturbance to nearby school operation have been predicted. During operation period of the project, household waste and traffic are believed to increase. As part of the proposed project, a number of mitigation measures have been proposed in the EIA Report including using corrugated sheets supported by iron beams as a safety measure for protecting the excavated area for foundation, dewatering will be undertaken upon approval from EPA, while preparing the site ready for construction, measures such as installation of safety and dust protection nets, appropriate signage will be placed to make aware people on the development. Also, important mitigation measures that will be implemented include complete elimination of waste disposal during construction and operation stages of the development into the project boundaries. Although during construction of the project, negative environmental impacts from construction activities have been envisaged, with appropriate environmental management and mitigation measures, these impacts will be reduced to a considerable level. Also, with positive socioeconomic outlook of the project and considering the overall importance of housing in Male’, it is concluded that the project is an important development.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for the proposed development of 10-storey building with basement at H. Loveside, Male’
(2016-12) Zuhair, Mohamed; Shakir, Ibrahim
Westore Pvt. Ltd. proposes to develop a 10-Storey Building with Basement at H. Loveside found on Abadahfehi Magu, Male’ for both commercial and residential use. The total area of the plot is 230.38sqm and proposed builtup area is 220.45sqm. 9.93sqm will be left as open space. Once completed, the basement area will have a car park with storage area, the ground and first floors will have commercial areas for shops and offices and around 20 residential units (comprising of 2 bedroom, 3 bedroom and 4 bedroom) from second to ninth floors. At the top level there will be a roof terrace. The site will be excavated to a depth of 2.7m to lay the foundations and develop the basement area where the depth of the foundation will be 1.05m and the basement floor level will be 1.65m. The ground level will be raised to a height of 1.2m, hence the final floor height of the basement will be 2.85m. The entire boundary will be shored with corrugated sheets or concrete walls supported by iron beams as a safety measure while preparing the site ready for construction. The EIA has been prepared as per the EIA Regulations 2012 developed directly under the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act and identifies that development of such buildings with basements or over 10 storeys with greater than 5ft foundation require an EIA to be undertaken and approved by EPA before commencement of construction. In order to understand existing environmental conditions of the proposed project area, assessments have been undertaken including ambient noise levels, traffic volume and movement, groundwater quality, vegetation, physical condition of the surrounding buildings and roads were undertaken. The highest noise level recorded was at Site 1 having 55dB and the lowest noise level recorded was at Site 3 having 45dB. The main reason for high noise level is because the site was located close another road where there are combined traffic movement from Violet Goalhi east to west and from Abadhafehi Magu from south to north. The traffic flow was observed to be from south to north by the project site. The traffic volume near project site has some variations between day and night. It was observed that motorcycle volume increased at night while all other types of vehicles such as cars, pickups and bicycles decreased. However, during the day, motorcycles were slightly decreased on other types of vehicles were increased. There is no vegetation present in the proposed plot. There is only 1 building with 3 storeys on the adjacent of the proposed site, which is found at the back of the proposed plot. All other buildings are single storey. Only the building found on the south is used as godown for Fantasy Supermarket. All other buildings including the 3 storey building are used for residential purpose. There are no significant environmental impacts from the proposed project, however, some of the environmental impacts from development activities such as dewatering, construction activities, operation of construction machinery, construction waste generating environmental impacts such as noise, dust and pollution are believed to occur. Social impacts such as traffic congestion, disturbance to nearby school operation have been predicted. During operation period of the project, household waste and traffic are believed to increase. As part of the proposed project, a number of mitigation measures have been proposed in the EIA Report including using corrugated sheets supported by iron beams as a safety measure for protecting the excavated area for foundation, dewatering will be undertaken upon approval from EPA, while preparing the site ready for construction, measures such as installation of safety and dust protection nets, appropriate signage will be placed to make aware people on the development. Also, important mitigation measures that will be implemented include complete elimination of waste disposal during construction and operation stages of the development into the project boundaries. Although during construction of the project, negative environmental impacts from construction activities have been envisaged, with appropriate environmental management and mitigation measures, these impacts will be reduced to a considerable level. Also, with positive socio-economic outlook of the project and considering the overall importance of housing in Male’, it is concluded that the project is an important development.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for the proposed water production and distribution facility at Hanimaadhoo, Haa Dhaal Atoll, Maldives
(2016-11) Zuhair, Mohamed; Abdul Fathah, Mariyam Shujaa-ath; Shareef, Mohamed
1. The purpose of this EIA is to critically analyse and assess the potential environmental impacts associated with the development of the proposed water production and distribution facility at HDh. Hanimaadhoo and expose the solutions and preferred alternatives as well as mitigation measures to minimize any negative impacts whilst trying to derive the maximum positive impacts from the project; 2. Currently, rainwater is widely used in all houses as cooking water and groundwater is used for various other domestic uses. Almost all houses have a rainwater storage tank. Bottled water is now mainly used as drinking water. Nevertheless, the groundwater lens in the islands of Maldives is depleted and highly saline due to over use and polluted in some areas and not fit for use for domestic purposes. Even though rainwater is widely used, it is not a reliable source as rainwater cannot be collected during dry season. Therefore, it is understood that Hanimaadhoo is in dire need of a clean water facility; 3. In the proposed facility the water production system is designed for 15 years whereas the distribution system for 35 years; 4. Proposed project involves installation of an RO plant with a capacity of 100 tonnes per day with three independent drains. Seawater intake is proposed from two bore wells 13 m deep at a site near the desalination plant. In addition to the bore wells, the facility will also incorporate rain water collected from public roofs, hence this is an integrated water resource management facility. Project also includes laying of distribution pipeline to existing household and a fire hydrant system; 5. A full baseline of groundwater quality, seawater quality, vegetation clearance and marine environment was established. It was found that the vegetation need to be cleared from the pump station location. Marine environment study showed that living substrata and fish count at the proposed outfall location was low due to dynamic oceanographic conditions that exist on the eastern side of the island with waves, swells and heavy currents which prevents settlement of new corals. Additionally, it is a high mixing zone; 6. The construction works of new powerhouses presented in this report are not expected to adversely impact the environment if the mitigation measures mentioned in the report are followed. The most important mitigation measures are daily maintenance of machinery, following chemical handling procedures, waste segregation and storage in closed labelled containers until disposal; 7. Overall, the proposed project is expected to bring in positive outcomes. It is expected that the newly established water production and distribution facility will ensure water security to the population of Hanimaadhoo in addition to greatly reducing health impacts associated with the use of polluted water; and 8. Monitoring is essential to ensure that environmental thresholds are not exceeded and mitigation measures proposed are working. Water quality and marine environment monitoring shall be done as per to the proposed monitoring schedule.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for the proposed water production and distribution facility at Hoarafushi, Haa Alif Atoll, Maldives
(2016-11) Zuhair, Mohamed; Abdul Fathah, Mariyam Shujaa-ath; Shareef, Mohamed
1. The purpose of this EIA is to critically analyse and assess the potential environmental impacts associated with the development of the proposed water production and distribution facility at HA. Hoarafushi and expose the solutions and preferred alternatives as well as mitigation measures to minimize any negative impacts whilst trying to derive the maximum positive impacts from the project; 2. Currently, rainwater is widely used in all houses as cooking water and groundwater is used for various other domestic uses. Almost all houses have a rainwater storage tank. Bottled water is now mainly used as drinking water. Nevertheless, the groundwater lens in the islands of Maldives is depleted and highly saline due to over use and polluted in some areas and not fit for use for domestic purposes. Even though rainwater is widely used, it is not a reliable source as rainwater cannot be collected during dry season. Therefore, it is understood that residents of Hoarafushi are in dire need of a clean water facility; 3. In the proposed facility the water production system is designed for 15 years whereas the distribution system for 35 years; 4. Proposed project involves installation of an RO plant with a capacity of 80 tonnes per day with three independent drains. Seawater intake is proposed from two bore wells 13 m deep at a site near the desalination plant. In addition to the bore wells, the facility will also incorporate rain water collected from public roofs, hence this is an integrated water resource management facility. Project also includes laying of distribution pipeline to existing household and a fire hydrant system; 5. A full baseline of groundwater quality, seawater quality, vegetation clearance and marine environment was established. Marine environment study showed that living substrata and fish count at the proposed outfall location was low; 6. The construction works of new powerhouses presented in this report are not expected to adversely impact the environment if the mitigation measures mentioned in the report are followed. The most important mitigation measures are daily maintenance of machinery, following chemical handling procedures, waste segregation and storage in closed labelled containers until disposal; 7. Overall, the proposed project is expected to bring in positive outcomes. It is expected that the newly established water production and distribution facility will ensure water security to the population of Hoarafushi in addition to greatly reducing health impacts associated with the use of polluted water; and 8. Monitoring is essential to ensure that environmental thresholds are not exceeded and mitigation measures proposed are working. Water quality and marine environment monitoring shall be done as per to the proposed monitoring schedule.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for the proposed water production and distribution facility at Milandhoo, Shaviyani Atoll, Maldives
(2016-12) Zuhair, Mohamed; Abdul Fathah, Mariyam Shujaa-ath; Shareef, Mohamed
1. The purpose of this EIA is to critically analyse and assess the potential environmental impacts associated with the development of the proposed water production and distribution facility at Sh. Milandhoo and expose the solutions and preferred alternatives as well as mitigation measures to minimize any negative impacts whilst trying to derive the maximum positive impacts from the project; 2. Currently, rainwater is widely used in all houses as cooking water and groundwater is used for various other domestic uses. Almost all houses have a rainwater storage tank. Bottled water is now mainly used as drinking water. Nevertheless, the groundwater lens in the islands of Maldives is depleted and highly saline due to over use and polluted in some areas and not fit for use for domestic purposes. Even though rainwater is widely used, it is not a reliable source as rainwater cannot be collected during dry season. Therefore, it is understood that residents of Milandhoo are in urgent need of a clean water facility; 3. In the proposed facility the water production system is designed for 15 years whereas the distribution system for 35 years; 4. Proposed project involves installation of an RO plant with a capacity of 65 tonnes per day with three independent drains. Seawater intake is proposed from two bore wells 30 m deep at a site near the desalination plant. In addition to the bore wells, the facility will also incorporate rain water collected from public roofs, hence this is an integrated water resource management facility. Project also includes laying of distribution pipeline to existing household and a fire hydrant system; 5. A full baseline of groundwater quality, seawater quality, vegetation clearance and marine environment was established. Marine environment study showed that living substrata and fish count at the proposed outfall location was low; 6. The construction works of new RO plant presented in this report are not expected to adversely impact the environment if the mitigation measures mentioned in the report are followed. The most important mitigation measures are daily maintenance of machinery, following chemical handling procedures, waste segregation and storage in closed labelled containers until disposal; 7. Overall, the proposed project is expected to bring in positive outcomes. It is expected that the newly established water production and distribution facility will ensure water security to the population of Milandhoo in addition to greatly reducing health impacts associated with the use of polluted water; and 8. Monitoring is essential to ensure that environmental thresholds are not exceeded and mitigation measures proposed are working. Water quality and marine environment monitoring shall be done as per the proposed monitoring schedule.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment proposed 14-storey building with basement at Ma. Alidhooge Male’
(2017-08) މުޙައްމަދު ޒުހައިރު; Zuhair, Mohamed; އިބްރާހިމް ޝާކިރު; Shakir, Ibrahim
Apollo Holdings Pvt. Ltd., proposes to develop a 14-Storey Building with Basement at Ma. Alidhooge found on Shaheed Kudanevi Thuthu Manik Hingun, Male’ for mixed use and residential purpose. The total area of the plot is 6,531.9 sqft. The development footprint will be 5,274.42sq.ft. An open space of 525.49sq.ft will be left within the plot. The project is expected to be completed in 1.8 years. ii. The site will be excavated to a depth of 3m to lay the foundations and develop the basement area which will have a floor height of 2.3m. The entire boundary will be sheet piled to depths of 3.5 - 4m with corrugated sheets supported by iron beams as a safety and protection measure while preparing the site ready for construction. A raft foundation has been proposed for the building. iii. Once completed, the building will have 13 residential floors with 2 bedroom, 3+1 bedroom and 4+1 bedroom apartments, ground floor for commercial use including shops and a mini mart and basement with car and motorcycle parking, storage, M&E room, chamber, admin, security room. A total of 36 x 2 bedroom, 24 x 3+1 bedroom and 2 x 4+1 bedroom unit will be developed for residential use. The rooftop on the 14th floor will have a play area, swimming pool, gym and a private garden area. It is estimated that around 300 persons can be accommodated in the residential units of the building. iv. The EIA has been prepared as per the EIA Regulations 2012 developed directly under the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act and identifies that development of such buildings exceeding 31m in height and with basements or over 10 storeys with greater than 5ft foundation require an EIA to be undertaken and approved by EPA before commencement of construction. v. In addition to Environmental Protection and Preservation Act, EIA Regulations, the project has to comply with Dewatering Regulation, Waste Management Regulation, Male’ Planning Regulation, Land Act as well as comply with Maldives National Building Code recommendations. area, assessments have been undertaken including ambient noise levels, traffic volume and movement, groundwater quality, soil and vegetation, physical condition of the surrounding buildings and roads as well as social assessments in the neighbourhood. vii. The proposed development will take place in the central part of Male’ City, Machchangoalhi District. The plot is within Block Number 194. The land plot is located at 4°10'33.51"N and 73°30'31.73"E. The proposed development area will be 5,274.42sq.ft of the 6,531.90sq.ft total plot area. The main connectivity to Alidhooge will be from Shaheed Kudanevi Thuthu Manik Hingun, which is a oneway road from east to west connected to Chandhanee Magu. viii. Noise levels recorded from the sites were Site 1 51dB (10:00hrs), 65dB (18:00hrs) and 60dB (21:00hrs), Site 2 56dB (10:00hrs), 69dB (18:00hrs) and 64dB (21:00hrs), Site 3 50dB (10:00hrs), 67dB (18:00hrs) and 61dB (21:00hrs), Site 4 49dB (10:00hrs), 59dB (18:00hrs) and 62dB (21:00hrs) and Site 5 48dB (10:00hrs), 63dB (18:00hrs) and 57dB (21:00hrs). Based on noise level records, 18:00hrs, which coincided with schools afternoon session finish period was recorded to have the highest noise levels on all sites except for Site 4 where highest noise level occurred at 21:00hrs. The highest noise levels were recorded from Chandhanee Magu, which is a main road in Male’ City where there is greater traffic movement most of the time. ix. The traffic volume was assessed to be generally high especially on Chandhanee Magu which is a main road in Male’ City. The highest traffic on both roads were recorded at 18:00hrs time period. This is mainly because the three school on Chandhanee Magu, Iskandhar School, Aminiya School and Arabiyya School finish their afternoon sessions at this time slot. The highest traffic volume at this period was from motorcycles having 1,942 on Chandhanee Magu and 773 on Shaheed Kudanevi Thuthu Hingun. All other traffic types including cars, pickups and lorries were recorded to be very low as such vehicles are not allowed during school rush hours. Pedestrian movement at this time was also observed to be extremely high. good and free from contamination and pollution. The faecal colifirm levels were at 0 and salinity levels were at 0.650/00. xi. There is no vegetation present in the proposed plot hence, vegetation assessment was not undertaken. xii. The neighbourhood of block 194 as well as nearby blocks (195 and 196) has a number of multistorey buildings, most of which are believed to be used for residential purpose except for the ground floor of these buildings where it is used for commercial purpose such as shops. However, on the adjancent of Alidhooge plot, only one multistorey is found, which is located on the eastern side at Shimaagu. The buildings is currently under construction and 6 sheets have been completed out of 10 sheets. Other plots on the adjacent of Alidhooge at Gurumful on the northern side has 2 storey building and Anbaraa on the western side has a single storey building. The structure of Shimaagu is 2 - 3 years old. The buildings at Gurumful is less than 5 years old. xiii. The condition of these roads are observed to be good. No cracks or physical damages were found. xiv. There are some concerning environmental impacts from the proposed project, such as excavation, dewatering, construction activities, operation of construction machinery, construction waste generating environmental impacts such as noise, dust and pollution are believed to occur. Social impacts such as traffic congestion, disturbance to nearby residents have been predicted as well as health problems as a result of dust have been identified. During operation period of the project, domestic waste and traffic are believed to increase. xv. As part of the proposed project, a number of mitigation measures have been proposed in the EIA Report including using corrugated sheets supported by iron beams as a safety measure for protecting the excavated area for foundation, dewatering will be undertaken upon approval from EPA, while preparing the site ready for construction, measures such as installation of safety and dust protection nets, appropriate signage will be placed to make aware people on the development. Important considerations with regards to mitigating environmental impacts include closing the boundary of the project area, placing dust nets around the building, regularly transporting construction waste and avoiding material transport during peak traffic hours as well as designating proper time periods for construction works have been identified. xvi. Although the project has short-term environmental impacts from the proposed development, the project has more social and economic benefits, which is believed to tremendously contribute to the need for residential and commercial space in Male’, create some employment opportunities and contribute to the local economy in Male’ in the long-term. xvii. Although during construction of the project, negative environmental impacts from construction activities have been envisaged, with appropriate environmental management and mitigation measures, these impacts will be reduced to a considerable level. Also, with positive socio-economic outlook of the project and considering the need for additional space in Male’, it is concluded that the project is an important development.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment proposed beach and swimming area development Himmafushi Island, Male’ Atoll
(2016-06) Zuhair, Mohamed; Shakir, Ibrahim
The Secretariat of the Himmafushi Council (Himmafushi Island Council), Male’ Atoll proposes to develop a beach having 220m on the northern side of the island and a swimming are within the lagoon on the northern side. The swimming are will be developed after removing seagrass found within the lagoon from an area having 1,300sqm. It is expected that a total of 3,252cbm of material will be obtained from the removal of seagrass. The seagrass content will be removed before the material will be used on the proposed beach. The proposed beach will be developed having an average width of 10m and a height of 1.4m above MSL. Two methods of material excavation will be used during the project implementation. Initially removal of seagrass will be undertaken by use of excavator and sand from the area will be obtained by using a sand pump. Under the Maldives Environmental Protection and Preservation Act (Law No. 4/93) and EIA Regulation 2012, the proposed beach and swimming area development project requires an EIA to be carried out. The report presents major findings of the EIA report. This EIA is prepared as per the Terms of Reference (TOR) approved by Environment Protection Agency (EPA) on 20 March 2016. Baseline environmental condition of the proposed project site as well as socio-economic environment was conducted for which the environmental impacts and mitigation measures as well as project alternatives are presented. It was found that there is a great need from the community for developing the beach and swimming area on the island, which is recognized as an important community need. The assessments carried out on the biophysical environment on the northern side of the island indicate that the coral reefs within the project boundary had very little live coral cover and limited reef fish abundance and diversity. The depth of the project area ranges from -0.4m MSL in the nearshore areas to -0.8m MSL at the proposed burrow site. The current flow was from east to west reaching to speeds of 0.14m/s and 0.18m/s. The area in close proximity to the project has known surf points. Most of the lagoon environment was covered with seagrass Thalassia hemprichii. There are two Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) within close proximity of the project location. Thamburudhoo Thila MPA is located close to the project site at distance of 1.2km NE and Lankan Thila MPA is located 5km SW. There are two Sensitive Sites (SSs) within the vicinity of the project site, they are Huraagandu SS located at a distance of 4.3km north and Okebe Thila SS located at a distance of 7.4km SW. Key environmental impacts from the proposed project will be from sedimentation to the reef areas on the northern and NW sides, changes in the hydrodynamics of the burrow area and nearshore lagoon on northern side of the island as well as potential changes to the northern shoreline of the island and these impacts can be reduced by implementing various environmental management and mitigation measures such as undertaking excavation, sand pumping and beach nourishment operations coinciding with low tide and on calm days to reduce spread of sedimentation as well as undertaking the operations in the quickest possible timeframe to reduce impact exposure period. Although there are some environmental impacts from the proposed project, most of these impacts can be reduced and mitigated by use of appropriate methodology and timing. The effectiveness of these methodologies can be documented by implementing a comprehensive monitoring programme. Also, with positive socio-economic outlook of the project and the community needs for the project, it is concluded that the project should go ahead as planned.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment proposed MEQ boatyard development project Himmafushi Island, K. Atoll
(2017-11) Zuhair, Mohamed
i. The proponent of the project, MEQ Boatyard Pvt. Ltd. proposes to develop a full fledge boatyard with all facilities at the existing boatyard found in Himmafushi Island, Kaafu Atoll. The existing boatyard has been leasedާby Himmafushi Island Council to MEQ Boatyard Pvt. Ltd. for a period of 25 years in 2016. ii. The scope of the project is to reclaim existing waterway having 1.1ha from fill material obtained from the lagoon, develop support infrastructures such as boat building factory, workshops, slipway, and boat lifting facility, staff accommodation and office building and develop support services including powerhouse, RO plant, compressor room, fuel and water storages. iii. Under the Maldives Environmental Protection and Preservation Act (Law No. 4/93) and EIA Regulation 2012, the proposed boatyard development project requires an EIA to be carried out and approved from EPA prior to commencement of work. The report presents major findings of the EIA report. iv. This EIA is prepared as per the Terms of Reference (TOR) approved by Environment Protection Agency (EPA) on 3 August 2017. v. The scope of this EIA is to assess the existing environmental condition of the project site in Himmafushi Island and surrounding environment, identify potential environmental impacts, propose environmental management and mitigation measures to minimize environmental impacts as well as propose an environmental monitoring plan with appropriate environmental parameters to monitor changes due to the project on a regular basis. vi. The proposed boatyard is located on the south-western side of Himmafushi Island at 4°18'27.71"N / 73°34'4.95"E. The southern part of the island has been allocated for light industrial developments as per the land use plan of the island. The existing land area of the boatyard is 230,000ft2. vii. Himmafushi island is an inhabited island with a population of over 1,700 having an area of 42ha found in a relatively large reef having an approximate length of 4.3km located on the eastern periphery of North Male’ Atoll. About 21ha of land has been reclaimed in 2016 making the total land area of the island 63ha. Two other islands are found within the same reef. They are Paradise Island Resort located at 2.2km south and Gili Lankanfushi Resort located 1km south of Himmafushi island. viii. There are two Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) vicinity of the project location. Thamburudhoo Thila MPA is located close to the project site at distance of 1.8km NE and Lankan Thila MPA is located 4.2km SW. There are two Sensitive Sites (SSs) within the vicinity of the project site too, they are Huraagandu SS located at a distance of 4.1km north and Okebe Thila SS located at a distance of 6km SW. ix. Two locations from the reef was assessed to understand existing condition. The coral reef assessments indicate that out of the two sites, the highest live coral cover recorded was from Reef 1 located on the western outer reef having a live coral cover of 8%. The main live coral cover type consisted of Porites and other massive coral varieties. Impacts of coral bleaching of 2016 is evident from the reef. Reef 2 site located on the inner reef on the western side had only 1% live coral cover and predominantly covered with dead coral, rubble and sand. Since an access channel and other areas have been previously dredged close to Reef 2 site, large number of corals were observed to be dead. x. A detailed lagoon bathymetry was undertaken from the proposed project area in order to understand the average depths of the lagoon in relation to MSL. The depth of the existing waterway ranges between -3.6m to -0.4m MSL. The existing waterway will be reclaimed as part of the project. The lagoon outside of the waterway boundary has depths ranging -4m and deeper into the existing deep inner lagoon having -6m MSL. xi. Currents recorded from the lagoon by the project site were relatively low having 0.13m/s (Drogue 1) and 0.08m/s (Drogue 2). Relatively low current flow in the area is believed to be due to presence of an outer reef that reduces incoming currents into the inner deep lagoon area. xii. Impact analysis indicates that most of the environmental impacts occur during construction are of short-term and during operation are of long-term in nature. Impacts such as dredging and land reclamation proposed as part of the project have moderate impacts. Since there is no major requirement for site clearance, its impacts have been identified to be negligible. Although some machinery will be used during construction, their impacts have been identified to be minor mostly related to noise and dust during operations. During operation phase, most of the impacts have been identified to be moderate including activities related to boatyard operations as well as impacts related to solid waste and hazardous waste. A notable social impact has been identified to be moderate due to health risks associated with the operations including contact with dust, chemicals and hazardous substances. xiii. Environmental mitigation measures have been identified for all environmental impacts that may be generated as part of the proposed project. Additionally Boatyard Management Best Practices outline key measures for protecting environment and human health from the project. xiv. Although there are a number of environmental impacts from the proposed development, most of these impacts can be reduced and mitigated by use of appropriate methodology. The effectiveness of these methodologies can be documented by implementing a comprehensive monitoring programme. Also, with positive social and economic outlook of the project and considering the overall need of the project to region, it is concluded that the project could be undertaken.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment proposed mixed use residential complexes in Hulhumale’ hiyaa vehi project
(2017-10) Zuhair, Mohamed; Shakir, Ibrahim
i) AMIN Construction Pvt. Ltd. proposes to develop 3 Real Estate Complexes for mixeduse residential and commercial purposes in Hulhumale’ known as Hiyaa Vehi Project. The project will be undertaken in 3 land plots (C2-1; C2-2; C2-3) located on Moonimaa Magu and Reethigas Magu. The complex in each land plot will comprise of two residential blocks with a common ground and first floor. The first block (Block A) in each complex will be 13-storey and the second block (Block B) will be 14-storey. The land area of the plots are C2-1 (25,487.52ft2 / 2,367.87m2), C2-2 (27,543.31ft2 / 2,558.86m2) and C2-3 (27,282.07ft2 / 2,534.59m2). Each complex will be developed in a floor area of 14,962ft2 (1,390m2) and the remaining areas will be left as open space. ii) Upon completion of the proposed project, Block A will have 62 apartments and Block B will have 72 apartments in each complex. Hence the total residential use units will be 402 in the three complexes. The Ground Floor and First Floors of the three complexes will be developed as commercial, parking and access ways. A total of 33 car parking slots and over 500 motorcycle parking slots together with some commercial units will be developed in each complex in ground and first floors. iii) The sites will be excavated to a depth of 2.5m to lay the foundations. The entire boundary will be shored with corrugated sheets supported by iron beams as a safety measure while preparing the site ready for construction. The buildings will be developed separately. Each building will rest on a raft foundation. MWSC and STELCO utility services based in Hulhumale’ will be used for all construction and operation purposes. Dewatering will be primarily done on the open areas nearby, hence, no groundwater will be lost from the proposed development. Excavated material will be transported to designated areas in Hulhumale’ 2. iv) The EIA has been prepared as per the EIA Regulations 2012 developed directly under the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act and identifies that development of such buildings exceeding 31m in height and over 10 storeys with greater than 5ft foundation require an EIA to be undertaken and approved by EPA before commencement of construction. Terms of Reference for the EIA was approved by 19 September 2017. v) In addition to Environmental Protection and Preservation Act, EIA Regulations, the project has to comply with Dewatering Regulation, Waste Management Regulation, Hulhumale’ Planning and Building Construction Regulation: Neighborhood 2 and 3, Land Act as well as comply with Maldives National Building Code recommendations. vi) In order to understand existing environmental conditions of the proposed project area, assessments have been undertaken including ambient noise levels, traffic volume and movement, groundwater quality, soil and vegetation, physical condition of the roads. vii) The proposed project will be undertaken in 3 land plots C2-1; C2-2; C2-3. C2-1 is located at 4°13'16.84"N / 73°32'26.01"E. C2-2 is located at 4°13'14.65"N / 73°32'25.79"E and C2-3 is located at 4°13'12.57"N / 73°32'25.59"E. All land plots are located on Moonimaa Magu and Reethigas Magu. viii) The highest noise level was recorded at Site 1 located on the southern side of the project site having 51dB. This is relatively low noise levels compared to other areas due to low traffic and minimal activities that are currently happening in the area. Occasional traffic found on the southern side of the project area raises noise level to a certain degree. Site 2 which is located in the middle of the plots had lesser noise (45dB) as no major activities are happening in the area. Site 3 located on the northern side of the plots had slightly increased noise (49dB) which is attributed to some temporary work happening in the plots. Site 4 located on the western side had the lowest level (43dB) as there are no major activities currently happening in the area. ix) The highest traffic along the road recorded was from motorcycles having 28 during the hourly period. The second highest traffic volume is from cars, mainly taxis having an hourly movement of 12 at the time of the assessment. Some movement of trucks and lorries were seen mainly coming and going out of construction sites. x) The general condition of the soil indicates that upper layers of the soil profile contains medium to dense coral sand with varying depths of loose sand below 2m. Groundwater is found at a depth of 1.4m. xi) The groundwater condition at the site is normal with no peculiar condition of parameters tested, except that some 1 MPN/100ml of Faecal Coliform counts have been recorded from C2-1. However, this is not a serious level. All other sites had 0 Coliform Counts. xii) There are no vegetation found inside the project boundary. However, some mixed mature vegetation are found by the roadside which is out of the proposed project boundary. Hence, there is no requirement for removing these vegetation and there will be no major impacts on these vegetation. xiii) There are currently no buildings adjacent to the proposed plot or the immediate surrounding area, however, some buildings similar to the proposed project is planned to be undertaken within the vicinity. C2-4, which is the southern plot (not part of the project) is getting ready for construction. Also, about 75m southwest of the proposed project, a site is getting ready for construction. xiv) The road condition by the project site namely Reethigas Magu and Moonima Magu are in good condition. No damages and cracks have been observed. xv) The environmental impacts that may be associated with the proposed project are predicted and assumed in the EIA Report. These environmental impacts are divided into construction phase and operation phase environmental impacts. Most of the construction phase environmental impacts are believed to occur from excavation, dewatering, construction activities, operation of construction machinery and vehicles and construction waste disposal. The main environmental impacts believed to occur during operation phase of the project include domestic waste and increased traffic within and around areas. xvi) With appropriate environmental management and mitigation measures as well as conformity to all the legal and regulatory requirements as outlined in the EIA Report, the project is believed to control or minimize most of the environmental and social impacts both during construction and operation phases of the development. Important considerations with regards to mitigating environmental impacts include closing the boundary of the project area, placing safety and dust nets around the building, regularly transporting construction waste and avoiding material transport during peak traffic hours as well as designating proper time periods for construction works have been identified. xvii) Unlike short-term environmental impacts from the proposed development, it has longterm beneficial social and economic impacts, which is believed to tremendously contribute to the overall socio-economic development of Hulhumale’ that can be sustained for over longer periods. xviii) Although during construction of the project, negative environmental impacts from construction activities have been envisaged, with appropriate environmental management and mitigation measures, these impacts will be reduced to a considerable level. Also, with positive socio-economic outlook of the project and considering the overall importance of such a development in Hulhumale’ to alleviate social housing stress, it is concluded that the project is an important project that can be implemented for the benefit of social and economic development.
Technical Report
First addendum : EIA for proposed coastal protection works in Th. Kandoodhoo
(2017-08) މުޙައްމަދު ޒުހައިރު; Zuhair, Mohamed
This is the First Addendum to the project’s approved main EIA, which has been prepared for obtaining permit and environmental clearance for additional works to be carried out as part of the proposed coastal protection works in Th. Kandoodhoo island including excavation of 10,484m3 fill material, backfilling works on 320m long eastern shoreline, development of a 15m long geo-bag arm to protect the northern tip of the revetment and extension of a 35m long area between the proposed revetment and existing harbor. The Proponent of the project is Ministry of Environment and Energy and the contractor of the project is SAS e Senok JV Pvt. Ltd. It is a legal requirement under the Amended EIA Regulation 2012 EIAs/Addendums for projects that are believed to generate negative environmental impacts. This Addendum has been prepared as per the approved Terms of Reference (TOR) on 10 August 2017. The scope of this Addendum is to address the existing environmental condition of the proposed project areas and surrounding environment, identify potential environmental impacts, and propose environmental management and mitigation measures to minimize environmental impacts as well as propose an environmental monitoring plan with appropriate environmental parameters to monitor changes on a regular basis. A detailed environmental assessment was undertaken as part of the main EIA and marine and coastal environmental assessments relevant for the proposed project have been used as the baseline environmental condition along with some recent observations in this Addendum. The major environmental impact is believed to occur from excavation of fill material from the burrow site including sedimentation within the surrounding environment, direct destruction of some of the lagoon habitats as well as increased turbidity in seawater due to sedimentation. Impacts from other activities such as backfilling and geo-structures development have been identified to be minimal. Careful planning and scheduling of the proposed activities to coincide with calm days and low tide operations has been proposed as the main mitigation measures in addition to regular monitoring of the various aspects of the environment. Although there some environmental impacts from the proposed additional works, some of these can bring permanent changes to the environment of the island, other impacts can be reduced and mitigated by use of appropriate methodology. The effectiveness of these methodologies can be documented by implementing the environmental monitoring programme. Also, with the long-term need to maintain the coastal protection of the project area, the proposed additional works has been considered an important requirement for the overall project.
Technical Report
First addendum EIA for proposed coastal protection works in DH. Maaenboodhoo
(2015-12) Zuhair, Mohamed
This is the First Addendum to the project’s approved main EIA, which has been prepared for obtaining permit and environmental clearance for a new burrow site that will be used for obtaining all required fill material for the proposed revetments to be developed in Dh. Maaenboodhoo. The Proponent of the project is Ministry of Environment and Energy and the contractor of the project is SAS e Senok JV Pvt. Ltd. It is a legal requirement under the Amended EIA Regulation 2012 EIAs/Addendums for projects that are believed to generate negative environmental impacts. This Addendum has been prepared as per the approved Terms of Reference (TOR) on 3 December 2015. The scope of this Addendum is to assess the existing environmental condition of the proposed project areas and surrounding environment, identify potential environmental impacts, propose environmental management and mitigation measures to minimize environmental impacts as well as propose an environmental monitoring plan with appropriate environmental parameters to monitor changes on a regular basis. The proposed new burrow site is located on the southern side of the island within the EPA guideline buffer boundary of 50m from the shoreline and 100m from the outer reef line as implemented under the Dredging and Reclamation Regulation 2013. A detailed environmental assessment was undertaken as part of the main EIA and marine and coastal environmental assessments relevant for the proposed project have been used as the baseline environmental condition in this Addendum. Main environmental impacts from the proposed project will be from sedimentation including water quality deterioration, reef damage as well as direct destruction of lagoon habitats within the new burrow site boundary. Although, these impacts are inevitable, it is effects can be reduced by implementing various environmental management and mitigation measures such as undertaking dredging operations coinciding with low tide and on calm days as well as undertaking the operations in the quickest possible timeframe to reduce impact exposure period. Environmental monitoring has been planned to undertaken in conjunction with the main EIA environmental monitoring plan. Although there are a number of environmental impacts from the proposed development, some of these can bring permanent changes to the environment of the island, other impacts can be reduced and mitigated by use of appropriate methodology. The effectiveness of these methodologies can be documented by implementing a comprehensive monitoring programme. Also, with positive social outlook of the project and considering the overall need for the project, it is concluded that the project should go ahead as planned.
Technical Report
First addendum to the EIA report for the proposed coastal protection works in AA. Ukulhas
(2016-04) Zuhair, Mohamed
This is the First Addendum to the project’s approved main EIA, which has been prepared for obtaining permit and environmental clearance for a new burrow site that will be used for obtaining required fill material for the request by the AA Ukulhas Island Council to extend the project shoreline to 2005 shoreline. The Proponent of the project is Ministry of Environment and Energy and the contractor of the project is SAS e Senok JV Pvt. Ltd. As part of this Addendum, it is proposed to obtain additional 13,125cbm of sand from the extended burrow site located close to the approved burrow site. The request by the AA Ukulhas Island Council was agreed by Ministry of Environment and Energy and further 2 months have been added to the original project scope. It is a legal requirement under the Amended EIA Regulation 2012 EIAs/Addendums for projects that are believed to generate negative environmental impacts. This Addendum has been prepared as per the approved Terms of Reference (TOR) on 12 April 2016. The scope of this Addendum is to assess the existing environmental condition of the proposed project areas and surrounding environment, identify potential environmental impacts, propose environmental management and mitigation measures to minimize environmental impacts as well as propose an environmental monitoring plan with appropriate environmental parameters to monitor changes on a regular basis. A detailed environmental assessment was undertaken as part of the main EIA and marine and coastal environmental assessments relevant for the proposed project have been used as the baseline environmental condition in this Addendum. The major environmental impacts from the proposed dredging and filling works are direct removal of reef section of the new burrow site, effects of sedimentation within the surrounding environment, changes in the lagoon hydrodynamics as well as increased turbidity in seawater due to sedimentation. Careful planning and scheduling of the proposed activities to coincide with calm days and low tide operations has been proposed as the main mitigation measures in addition to regular monitoring of the various aspects of the environment. Although there are a number of environmental impacts from the proposed development, some of these can bring permanent changes to the environment of the island, other impacts can be reduced and mitigated by use of appropriate methodology. The effectiveness of these methodologies can be documented by implementing a comprehensive monitoring programme. Also, with positive social outlook of the project and considering the overall need for the project, it is concluded that the request by the AA Ukulhas Island Council to be implemented.
Other
National biodiversity strategy and action plan of the Maldives 2002
(Ministry of Environment and Energy, 2002) Jameel, Ahmed; Hameed, Faathin; Shakeel, Hassan; Ahmed, Hudha; Ali Sharef, Hudha; Shareef, Maaz; Saleem, Mariyam; Aslam, Mohamed; Faiz, Mohamed; Zuhair, Mohamed; Hassan, Moosa Zameer; Saeed, Simad
Technical Report
Second addendum : EIA for proposed coastal protection works in Dh. Maaenboodhoo
(2018-02-01) Zuhair, Mohamed
I. This is the Second Addendum to the project’s approved main EIA, which has been prepared for obtaining permit and environmental clearance for revised coastal protection measures in Dh. Maaenboodhoo. The Proponent of the project is Ministry of Environment and Energy and the contractor of the project is SAS e Senok JV Pvt. Ltd. II. It is a legal requirement under the Amended EIA Regulation 2012 EIAs/Addendums for projects that are believed to generate negative environmental impacts. This Addendum has been prepared as per the approved Terms of Reference (TOR) on 6 February 2018. III. The scope of this Addendum is to assess the existing environmental condition of the proposed project areas and surrounding environment, identify potential environmental impacts, propose environmental management and mitigation measures to minimize environmental impacts as well as propose an environmental monitoring plan with appropriate environmental parameters to monitor changes on a regular basis. IV. The locations and design of the geo-bag revetment has been altered as part of the revised new design which was approved and awarded to the contractor on 6 December 2017 as the second phase of the project. The main reason for the revision is that erosion on the island has shifted to the new locations where coastal protection measures are now required on the NW shoreline of the island. V. A detailed environmental assessment was undertaken as part of the main EIA and marine and coastal environmental assessments relevant for the proposed project have been used as the baseline environmental condition in this Addendum. VI. The project involves excavation of fill material, land filling and development of geobag revetments and groynes to be constructed as part of the overall coastal protection works. The environmental impacts from sedimentation and direct destruction and loss of habitat from these activities have been identified to be the most significant environmental impacts from the project. Especially in areas where dredging and land filling occur, irreparable damages in these areas of the environment have been identified. To some extent, the revetments itself is also an impact to the environment in terms of permanently replacing the habitats within the area. VII. Environmental monitoring has been planned to undertaken in conjunction with the main EIA environmental monitoring plan. VIII. Although there are a number of environmental impacts from the proposed development, some of these can bring permanent changes to the environment of the island, other impacts can be reduced and mitigated by use of appropriate methodology. The effectiveness of these methodologies can be documented by implementing a comprehensive monitoring programme. Also, with positive social outlook of the project and considering the overall need for the project, it is concluded that the project should go ahead as planned