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Item Environmental impact assessment for the proposed 11-storey building construction at Ma. Andhalus, Male’(2016-02) Jameel, Ahmed; Musthafa, AmirThis report is based on the proposed 11 storey building construction at the residence, Ma. Andhalus in the capital city, Male‟. The project is being developed and constructed by FEDO Pvt. Ltd. They are to undertake the construction works and project management including overseeing the EIA process. An Environmental Impact Assessment was necessary for the works outlined in this report as they fall under „Jadhuvalu R‟ of the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations 2012 of the Maldives. In addition to meeting the regulatory requirements, the report would further assist the proponent and important stakeholders to make decisions based on favourable environmental conditions with the main focus on sustainability. The project also adheres to several other rules and regulations in the Maldives and has obtained permit from the Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure to proceed. The area the project is proposed to be undertaken is a moderately built area in the heart of Male‟, more towards the southern side. There is no natural terrestrial environment at site, The existing environment therefore was focussed on the regional climate of Male‟, and the traffic distribution, and noise pollution in the area. As could be seen from the data, this area does not encourage much traffic relative to the busier roads in Male‟. There were several existing construction sites in the neighbourhood. A general exterior overview of the existing structures in the area was also observed. It was found that most of the buildings in the area were in good condition. Older buildings were mostly single storey structures. Therefore, serious structural defects are expected to be at a minimum. However, the report recommends to undertake a structural defects inspection study of the buildings in the same block as the proposed site by civil engineering experts. The overall environmental impacts of the project have been assessed using frameworks found in literature. Since the development is undertaken in a moderately built area, the results indicate that the proposed project has neutral impact. However, there are some significant impacts on the environment during the construction phase of the project and these needs to be mitigated to avoid any significant damage to the environment. Significance of the impacts and mitigation measures have been provided based on previous similar projects undertaken in the Maldivian environment and based on literature. The main cause for concern regarding this project is the impact it will have on neighbours residing in this area. As such, several short-term impacts are envisaged including air pollution, noise pollution, aesthetic impacts, and safety concerns. As there are numerous high storey building projects being undertaken in Male‟, there is no particular long term impact associated with this project. One significant impact specific to this project is the cumulative impact on the neighbourhood due to the sheer no. of construction projects that are simultaneously undertaken in the area. The impacts that do occur however can be easily mitigated to minimise and/or completely nullify them. The first mitigation measure proposed includes creating awareness among the construction staff and neighbours regarding the scope of the project. Other measures include properly demarcating the area, putting up dust screens, and taking other protective measures to ensure people residing and utilising the vicinity will not have to endure the impacts during the construction stage. Foundation protection measures are recommended and are provided as part of the project to prevent impact on neighbouring structures. Dewatering procedure also needs to be undertaken with care, details of which are given in the report. During the operation stage of the project, parking and waste management are issues of note. Alternatives, including the no project option and alternatives for some project components are also discussed. Regarding project design, a few alternatives are recommended such as providing a green area at the terrace, while the pros and cons of making a larger parking area is also discussed. An environmental monitoring program is provided at the end of the report, which provides details on the parameters to monitor on site, and the frequency in which it needs to be done. Estimated costs for the monitoring works are given. Implementation of the program is essential for the sustainable development of the project. In conclusion, it is discussed the impact such major housing projects have for the increasing population density in Male‟, and how it can be prevented at a policy level. However, taking this project as a standalone development project in an already heavily built island city, it can be concluded that no significant long-term impacts are predicted. Therefore, it is recommended that the project go ahead as proposed with precautions and mitigation measures in place.Item Environmental impact assessment : proposed development of 10 storey apartment building with basement in M. Two Friends, Male'(2018-02) Musthafa, AmirThis report is based on the proposed 10 storey building construction with basement at the residence, M. Two Friends in the capital city, Male‟. The project is being developed and constructed by the proponent, Rasheed Carpentry and Construction Pvt. Ltd. An Environmental Impact Assessment was necessary for the works outlined in this report as they fall under „Jadhuvalu R‟ of the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations 2012 of the Maldives. Specifically, the inclusion of a basement comes under the Regulation. In addition to meeting the regulatory requirements, the report would further assist the proponent and important stakeholders to make decisions based on favourable environmental conditions with the main focus on sustainability. The project also adheres to several other rules and regulations in the Maldives and has obtained permit from the Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure for the project to proceed. The area the project is proposed to be undertaken is a moderately built area in the western side of Male‟ in Maaveyo Magu. There is no natural terrestrial environment at site. The existing environment therefore was focussed on the regional climate of Male‟, and the traffic distribution, and noise pollution in the area. The project area does endures moderate traffic relative to the general traffic conditions in Male‟. A general exterior overview of the existing structures in the area was also observed. It was found that most of the buildings in the area were old structures and maybe prone to some damages. However, serious structural defects are expected to be at a minimum, especially considering the standard foundation protection methods. The overall environmental impacts of the project have been assessed using frameworks found in literature. Since the development is undertaken in a moderately built area, the results indicate that the proposed project has neutral impact. However, there are some significant impacts on the environment during the construction phase of the project and these needs to be mitigated to avoid any significant damage to the environment. Significance of the impacts and mitigation measures have been provided based on previous similar projects undertaken in the Maldivian environment and based on literature. The main cause for concern regarding this project is the impact it will have on neighbours residing in this area. As such, several short-term impacts are envisaged including air pollution, noise pollution, aesthetic impacts, traffic issues and safety concerns. As there are numerous high storey building projects being undertaken in Male‟, there is no particular long term impact associated specific to this project, albeit an increase in cumulative impacts. The main reason an EIA was required for the project was due to the basement construction and associated impacts. These can be mitigated by restricting the type of storage materials in the area, implementing fire safety systems, and proper mechanical ventilation and drainage. MNDF fire and rescue services require smoke vent sysms to be in place in the basement. Furthermore, submersible pumps are proposed for the project as well as general mechanical ventilation. The other impacts that do occur can also be easily mitigated to minimise and/or completely nullify them. Mitigation measure proposed includes creating awareness among the construction staff and neighbours regarding the scope of the project. Other measures include taking protective measures to ensure people residing and utilising the vicinity will not have to endure the impacts during the construction stage. Foundation protection measures are recommended and are provided as part of the project to prevent impact on neighbouring structures in addition to a 1m offset from the adjacent building. Dewatering procedure will also be undertaken with care, details of which are given in the report. Care should also be taken to prevent any damage to the road and disruption to traffic during transport of machinery, material and equipment. Alternatives, including the no project option and alternatives for some project components are also discussed. No project option is not viable at this stage of the project. Regarding construction methodology, a few alternatives are recommended. Regarding the design, there are recommendations to make the development greener. These include interior landscaping to incorporate plants, use of green walls, use of LED lights, rooftop solar panels, etc. These are general alternatives proposed for all similar projects. An environmental monitoring program is provided at the end of the report, which provides details on the parameters to monitor on site, and the frequency in which it needs to be done. Estimated costs for the monitoring works are given. It is vital to have a building monitoring and maintenance body in place and to engage them in the monitoring program as continuous data can only be collected then. Implementation of the program is essential for the sustainable development of the project. In conclusion, it is discussed the impact such major housing projects have for the increasing population density in Male‟, and how it can be prevented at a policy level. However, taking this project as a standalone development project in an already heavily built island city, it can be concluded that no significant long-term project specific impacts are predicted, none that the island community is not yet enduring. The same conclusion had been derived for all similar building construction projects in Male‟. Therefore, it is recommended that the project go ahead as proposed with proposed precautions and mitigation measures as provided under the published guidelines and recommended in this study.Item Environmental impact assessment : proposed development of 15 storey mixed residential building at M. Chanbeylee Vilaa, Male’(2018-01) Musthafa, AmirThis report is based on the proposed 15 storey mixed residential building construction with basement at the residence, M. Chanbeylee Villa in the capital city, Male‟. The project is being developed and constructed by the proponent Mr. Shiham Rasheed An Environmental Impact Assessment was necessary for the works outlined in this report as they fall under „Jadhuvalu R‟ of the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations 2012 of the Maldives. Specifically, the inclusion of a basement comes under the Regulation. In addition to meeting the regulatory requirements, the report would further assist the proponent and important stakeholders to make decisions based on favourable environmental conditions with the main focus on sustainability. The project also adheres to several other rules and regulations in the Maldives and has obtained permit from the Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure for the project to proceed. The area the project is proposed to be undertaken is a moderately built area in the western side of Male‟ in Majeedhee Magu. There is no natural terrestrial environment at site. The existing environment therefore was focussed on the regional climate of Male‟, and the traffic distribution, and noise pollution in the area. The project area does endures moderate traffic relative to the general traffic conditions in Male‟. A general exterior overview of the existing structures in the area was also observed. It was found that most of the buildings in the area were old structures and maybe prone to some damages. However, serious structural defects are expected to be at a minimum, especially considering the standard foundation protection methods. The overall environmental impacts of the project have been assessed using frameworks found in literature. Since the development is undertaken in a moderately built area, the results indicate that the proposed project has neutral impact. However, there are some significant impacts on the environment during the construction phase of the project and these needs to be mitigated to avoid any significant damage to the environment. Significance of the impacts and mitigation measures have been provided based on previous similar projects undertaken in the Maldivian environment and based on literature. The main cause for concern regarding this project is the impact it will have on neighbours residing in this area. As such, several short-term impacts are envisaged including air pollution, noise pollution, aesthetic impacts, traffic issues and safety concerns. As there are numerous high storey building projects being undertaken in Male‟, there is no particular long term impact associated specific to this project, albeit an increase in cumulative impacts. The main reason an EIA was required for the project was due to the basement construction and associated impacts. These can be mitigated by restricting the type of storage materials in the area, implementing fire safety systems, and proper mechanical ventilation and drainage. Submersible pumps are proposed for the project as well as mechanical ventilation. The other impacts that do occur can also be easily mitigated to minimise and/or completely nullify them. Mitigation measure proposed includes creating awareness among the construction staff and neighbours regarding the scope of the project. Other measures include taking protective measures to ensure people residing and utilising the vicinity will not have to endure the impacts during the construction stage. Foundation protection measures are recommended and are provided as part of the project to prevent impact on neighbouring structures in addition to a 1m offset from the adjacent building. Dewatering procedure will also be undertaken with care, details of which are given in the report. Care should also be taken to prevent any damage to the road and disruption to traffic during transport of machinery, material and equipment. Additionally, water tanks should be incorporated as part of the project to cater for both booster pumps and wet rise system, which are requirements for the building. Alternatives, including the no project option and alternatives for some project components are also discussed. No project option is not viable at this stage of the project. Regarding construction methodology, a few alternatives are recommended. Regarding the design, there are recommendations to make the development greener. These include interior landscaping to incorporate plants, use of green walls, use of LED lights, rooftop solar panels, etc. An environmental monitoring program is provided at the end of the report, which provides details on the parameters to monitor on site, and the frequency in which it needs to be done. Estimated costs for the monitoring works are given. Implementation of the program is essential for the sustainable development of the project. In conclusion, it is discussed the impact such major housing projects have for the increasing population density in Male‟, and how it can be prevented at a policy level. However, taking this project as a standalone development project in an already heavily built island city, it can be concluded that no significant long-term project specific impacts are predicted, none that the island community is not yet enduring. The same conclusion had been derived for all similar building construction projects in Male‟. Therefore, it is recommended that the project go ahead as proposed with proposed precautions and mitigation measures as provided under the published guidelines and recommended in this study.Item Proposed 5000 social housing units development project in Hulhumale’ phase II : environment impact assessment(2018-01) Musthafa, AmirThis report is based on the proposed 5000 social housing units proposed for Hulhumale’ Phase II. 40 buildings in total will be built as part of the project, each 14 storeys high. The exact number of housing units to be developed as part of the project is 5040 units. The project is being developed by Housing Development Corporation (HDC), and constructed by China Nantong Sanjian Construction Group Co. Ltd, which will oversee the development and project management including managing the EIA process. An Environmental Impact Assessment was necessary for the works due to the large scale of the project with high rise buildings. In addition to meeting the regulatory requirements, the report would further assist the proponent and important stakeholders to make decisions based on favourable environmental conditions with the main focus on sustainability. The project also adheres to several other rules and regulations in the Maldives and has obtained permit from HDC to proceed. HDC is a 100% government entity, which also has the responsibility to set guidelines and oversee all developments in Hulhumale’. The project consists of the development of 1/3 of the larger program by HDC to establish 15,000 social housing units in Hulhumale’ within the next 2 – 3 years. Other similar EIAs have been done recently, most notably for the 7000 housing units project, 2500 housing unit project and 1394 housing unit project. Apartments in these buildings can generally be regarded as being targeted towards lower class members of the community, who cannot afford commercial housings. The project will contribute to the grand plan by the government of reducing congestion in Male’ by providing a large number of housing opportunities in Hulhumale’. By 2019, it is projected that the new housing units would accommodate approximately 80,000 people. Similar to the other building EIA’s in Phase II, the existing environment at the project site does not consist of any significant vegetation and the water test result shows normal water quality. There are no residents living in Phase II yet and there is no other structure at the site as well. However, there are other similar developments previously stated projects. Other development in the land include development of the 7000 housing units, shore protection and road construction, which is currently ongoing. During the construction stage, health and safety standards of the workers at site, and waste generation is the major areas of concern as is the case for similar developments. With proper planning and project management, this can be easily mitigated. Impacts on water quality due to dewatering as identified can be mitigated by dewatering inland. Waste is the main concern during the operational stage of the project, in addition to social issues. Since this will be developed as a condominium with multiple tenants owning the rights of the building, it has to be ensured that the tenants are held responsible to properly maintain the building. Impacts that may occur due to conflicts with other developments being undertaken simultaneously can be mitigated with proper communication and planning before project implementation. Long term social issues are envisaged due to a large population living in a concentrated area. Several social and legislative mitigation measures are proposed to counter this, including greater policing activities, larger public spaces, etc. Also concerns regarding fire safety exists. Proper fire safety measures are very important to be established as well as additional features such as sprinkler systems in each floor. In addition to fire safety, other impacts due to fuel storage at site and use and storage of chemicals are cause for concern. These can be mitigated by following the fuel and chemical storage standards and best practice methods. Regarding alternatives, there are no viable alternatives available for the project with respect to location, as the most suitable location had been predetermined during the planning stage. The no project option is also not plausible at this stage and possibilities are outside the scope of this study. Other alternatives including material, foundation type, construction methodology are not necessarily recommended. Recommendations had been made to proceed with the project as planned. It is recommended to dewater inland to an empty land close to the project site after excavating the area to ensure that water is contained in the allocated area, and will not have any negative impact on the groundwater aquifer. An environmental monitoring plan is proposed to be carried out with 2 phases; one for the construction stage, and one for 2 years post construction. Factors to investigate include surveying the amount of waste generation, noise pollution, traffic flow, health and safety at site and water quality. The project in general has minimum impact as it is being undertaken in newly developing land, similar to the other current developments in the area. All project specific building related impacts highlighted in the study, including those related for fire risks, health and safety, and fuel and chemical storage and use can be mitigated. The socio-economic benefits to Greater Male’ City from projects such as these is very high. The project would go a long way in providing much needed additional housing opportunities, which would contribute to alleviating the housing issues in Male’ City, and therefore mitigating the issues related to congestion. Thus, after consideration of all these perspectives, it is recommended that this project proceed as planned, after incorporating the mitigation measures given in this study with the commitment to implementing the monitoring plan given. Furthermore, proper planning and stronger legislation is required to ensure sustainability of all these new major condominium projects and to ensure maximum benefits are reaped from them. Building maintenance legislation needs to be strengthened to ensure such projects provide the maximum benefits to the community with minimum risks over a long period.