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Item Environmental impact assessment for the proposed development of an agricultural island Dhurureha Thaa Atoll, Maldives(2017-09) SandcaysThis report discusses the findings of a social and environmental impact study under the proposed development of agriculture on Dhururehaa, Thaa Atoll. The project is proposed by Mohamed Latheef. The proponent aims at developing Dhurureha as an agricultural island; providing job opportunities, reducing dependency on imported produce and ultimately working towards economic diversification and growth of Maldivian economy. The agricultural activities on Dhurureha will be carried out in greenhouses as a hydroponics system. A total of 12 greenhouses (100ft by 50ft each) is proposed to be built for growing tomato, capsicum, bell pepper and lettuce. Additionally, a 60m by 30m nursery will be built on the island. Access to the island is to be provided by dredging an access channel and a 200m jetty. Water requirement for the project is to be met by utilizing an RO plant. A suitable size diesel generator will be used throughout the project to meet power requirement. Staff facilities such as accommodation, mesh room, mosque and office building will also be constructed on the island. A cold storage, general storage and small packaging facility will also be constructed on the island during construction stage. A waste collection and management station will be established for using during construction phase and operational phase of the project At present, Dhurureha is an uninhabited island not used for any purpose. However, locals of the nearby communities use the island to collect coconuts, go on picnics and gather firewood. Alternatives to project components have been identified in the project document. These include alternative uses of the island such as for a tourist resort. However, upon closer analysis of these options, the proposed development of the island for agricultural purpose was found to be more viable based on the present circumstances under which the island has been leased. Therefore, the consultants propose exploring use of alternative renewable sources to the proposed fuel based energy generation. Environmental impacts were assessed for both the construction and operation phase of the project. Most of the environmental impacts of the project have been identified as minor negative with highly positive socio-economic impacts. The main negative impacts from the project include habitat loss from vegetation clearance, sedimentation and consequent impacts on marine wildlife health and waste generation during the operational phase. The mitigation measures outlined for these impacts include conserving mature trees to the greatest possible extent, relocating large live corals at the proposed access channel area and establishing dust control plans in addition to employing best-practice guidelines during the operational phase. The most positive socio-economic impacts related to the project are increase in job opportunities, reduction in prices of agricultural produce and increase of national revenue. It is inevitable that there would be some negative environmental impacts. However, most of the impacts of the proposed project are minor compared to the positive socio-economic benefits of the proposed system. Yet, monitoring to ensure the effectiveness of the proposed project would be necessary. Therefore, a monitoring component has been suggested which takes in to consideration, the most important elements that require regular checks. This monitoring component will be adhered to and will allow the assessment of changes due to construction and implementation of the proposed agriculture project. Monitoring is specifically focussed on employment opportunities, price changes in the market, direct and indirect economic ventures, ground and marine water quality, changes in the hydrodynamics of the project area as well as impacts on the reef or marine ecological area of importance. In conclusion, it appears justified from a technical and environmental point of view, to carry out the proposed project to develop Dhurureha as an agricultural island.Item Environmental impact assessment proposed milkfish aquaculture project Matu, Gaafu Alif Atoll(2017-07) SandcaysThis report addresses the environmental concerns of the proposed milkfish (Chanos chanos) hatchery project in Ga. Matu. The project is proposed by Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture. Concerns about live-bait availability over prolonged periods are being raised in recent years, especially in the southern atolls of Maldives. The development of aquaculture for selected bait species is seen as one possible measure to manage the live bait shortage currently faced by local fishermen. Cultured milkfish has been in use for the longlining industry in different parts of the world, and successfully piloted for the pole-and-line industry in Indonesia and Kiribati. Unlike most of the live bait species currently in use in the pole-and-line fishery, hatchery technology is well developed for milkfish. In addition, the relatively short duration to reach bait-size makes milkfish an ideal species for aquaculture development. Supplementing the tuna fishermen with cultured bait is expected to reduce the time spent on bait search, and in turn, result in increased effort directed to the tuna fishery. As live bait shortage is mostly reported from the southern atolls, the proposed hatchery site was selected from Gaafu Alif atoll, for logistical ease in distribution for the most needed areas can be made. The selected island, Matu from Ga. Atoll is 5.9 Ha small uninhabited island on the northern side of Ga.Atoll. The closest inhabited islands to the project site are Ga. Villingili and Kolamaafushi. The project aims to produce 100 tons of milkfish raised to the size of live bait used in the pole-and-line fishery. All required technical and support infrastructure will be constructed during the construction phase of the project. The operational phase will involve water circulation, feeding and rearing of cultured stock. In addition to hatchery, nursery and broodstock modules built on land, sea cages will be built for brood stock. Power will be provided for the project via diesel generators, while potable water will be provided via RO plants. Accommodation for staff and administrative buildings and waste management centre will also be constructed on the island. Access to the island will be provided via access channel and a jetty. The naturally deep lagoon will be used as a harbour during the project. Social and environmental concerns regarding the proposed project include: • Vegetation clearance during site preparation for construction of land infrastructures. This impact is considered minor negative as outmost care will be taken to reduce cutting down mature vegetation. Buildings will be adjusted as much as possible to reduce requirement of cutting or relocation of mature trees. When unavoidable, two plants for every tree cut will be planted on the island. • Sedimentation during excavation of access channel and construction of main jetty. This impact is considered as negligible as the excavation involved is very minor. Measures to reduce this impact such as working during calm weather and low-tide has been suggested as mitigation measures. • Minor impacts due to human activity in the area including littering both during construction and operational phases. • Increased nutrient loadings from faeces and uneaten food wastes, which will either dissolve or settle on the seabed beneath the cage. Since the water is deep and adequate currents exist, eutrophication is, however, unlikely. The proposed project is expected to be managed in conformity with local and international regulations and standards of relevance, especially environmental regulations and standards. Therefore, environmental impacts will be well managed, minimized and mitigated. Given that the project has major socio-economic benefits and some environmental benefits (potential to reduce pressure on wild populations of baitfish), it is recommended to allow the project to proceed as proposed. It is important to consider uncertainties and continue to monitor the project impacts and undertake appropriate mitigation measures in consultation with the EPA and other relevant government agencies. It is also necessary to undertake regular environmental monitoring activities.Item Environmental impact assessment proposed 13 storey building construction at M. Dhimyaath, Male’(2017-09) Jameel, Ahmed; Mohamed, HamdhoonThis report is based on the proposed 13 storey building construction at the residence, M. Dhimyaath in the capital city, Male’. The project is being developed and constructed by Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. He will be undertaking 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 favorable 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 south western side. There is no natural terrestrial environment at site. The existing environment therefore was focused 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 neighborhood. 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 for the construction and setup of a sewerage system in Baarah Island, Haa Alif Atoll, Maldives(2017-09) Water SolutionsThis report discusses the findings of an environmental impact study undertaken by Water Solutions Pvt. Ltd in order to fulfill obligatory requirements of the National Environment Protection and Preservation Act, Law No. 4/93 for the proposed setup of the sewerage system (hereafter referred to as the project) in Baarah island, Haa Alifu Atoll, Maldives. The purpose of this EIA is to identify and minimize potential adverse environmental impacts related to this project and enhance the overall quality of the project. By examining the project location, the legal framework and the existing environmental components such as marine ecology and the socio-economic aspects, this EIA provides useful information regarding the extent, nature and the magnitude of impacts that are likely to occur. The EIA will also help to identify the long term socio-economic benefits to the community after implementing this project. It also provides a framework for future monitoring of the environment, so that changes can be monitored and corrective measures can be undertaken. The proposed project aims to establish a sewerage collection and disposal system in the island of Baarah in Haa Alifu Atoll. The concept designed for Barrah is a gravity type wastewater collection and disposal system. The existing systems are mainly based on septic tanks and small bore sewers. Without proper maintenance these systems are prone to damage and contamination of groundwater can occur. The contamination of the groundwater has occurred to the extent that it cannot be utilized for any potable use. Therefore, the current setup is not environmentally acceptable nor suitable. The sewerage system for Ha. Baarah will be a gravity sewerage system where sloping pipelines will allow waste water from the entire island to flow to three zonal pumping stations. The sewage will be pumped from the pumping station to the treatment plant where it will be treated and discharged via a sea outfall pipeline into the sea. The sewerage system will comprise of elements of a given specification for sewer mains, cleanouts, manholes, vents, pump stations, outfall pipeline and diffuser that will ensure a 30 year design flow The sewerage system therefore comprises of the following components: a) Household inspection chambers. b) A gravity sewerage reticulation network. c) Reticulation pumping stations and pressure main system. d) Construction of a sea outfall to discharge the sewage into deep sea. The proposed project will ensure that the groundwater of the island does not get contaminated through improper sanitation systems. It will also ensure that the surrounding marine environment will improve in terms of environmental quality and will ensure pollution from sewage does not occur on the near shore environments. The project is expected to bring several positive impacts on the environmental quality of the island and the surrounding reef. Particularly, the most significant benefit would be achieved through improvement in the bacteriological quality of the groundwater. The health benefits of the project are worthy of noting as the improvement in water quality are going to bring significant health benefits to the community. Environmental & social impacts and the mitigation measures Several environmental impacts of this proposed project have been examined through a number of processes. These include consultations with the project development team, field surveys, observations and assessment, and field experience gained from similar development projects implemented throughout the country. Potential positive and negative impacts on the environment have been considered. The assessment indicates environmental impacts, both during the construction and operation stage. During the construction period, impacts are likely to occur on the marine and terrestrial environment (groundwater). Most of the impacts during the construction period are impacts related to construction waste, dewatering, disruptions to the local traffic, dust emission, damage to the reef during sea outfall construction and noise. During the operational stage of this project, there will be both positive and negative impacts. Positive impacts include the improvement of the ground water quality of the island. Negative impacts include the increased in extraction of groundwater for toilet flushing that may increase the chances of groundwater salinization at a much accelerated rate. This project does foresee some negative impacts even during the construction stage but is geared towards improving the overall environmental quality of the island, most notably the environmental health. The project is presently planned to lay the sewer pipeline along the centre of the exiting road. During this process, dewatering and construction pose some challenges. Previous experience of sewer construction in the Maldives has indicated that excavation depths more than 3.5m are not recommended for conventional dewatering methods to avoid the risk of undermining and trench collapses as well as loss of structural integrity of the surrounding earth. For the purpose of the Baarah design, the maximum depth of excavation will not exceed 3.5m as per the Design criteria and technical specifications for conventional gravity sewerage systems guideline released by the Water and Sanitation Unit of the Environmental Protection Agency (Environmental Protection Agency, 2015). Strict reference to these criteria will be followed and necessary as the streets are very narrow and congested, leaving limited space for mechanical excavation between buildings for the installation of pipelines. The lack of an established land use plan for the island is also a draw back for Baarah. No land used plan means that future projections rely solely on population statistics rather than the land physically available for future development. The present design is based solely on the existing populated area, centrally located in the island. There are large areas of the island undeveloped and unzoned due to lack of a land use plan. Large areas of the island are used for agriculture and pilot projects have been established with aid agencies to try new agricultural technologies. The island is a potential hot spot for future tourism development due to the vase natural resources (beach, mangroves and thick forests and plenty of land). Different types of developments such as guesthouses and restaurants may require grease traps to prevent large influxes of unwanted material into the sewerage network. Therefore the present design of the system has not considered these future developments and in the event of such developments, the existing system will require upgrading. Requirements may need to be specified at a policy level to counter this issue. Therefore this is a potential risk factor in this project. Despite these shortcomings the project does not pose serious threats to the natural environment (marine and terrestrial) and will directly benefit the environment and the community, both in the short and long term. Minor negative impacts with varying significance will occur as the project is implemented. They include dewatering and localized salinization, disruption to public transport, dust emissions during pipe laying work and reef damage during the process of outfall construction. The pump stations have not been placed around the periphery of the island, instead are located within the population zone. This could pose the issue of foul odour in the event of a system failure whereby the foul odour abatement mechanism is affected. Incorporating the pump stations in the populated areas is a necessity and this design factor will enhance the functioning of the overall system. The project will benefit the community and the island in the long term. It is important to ensure that the project implementation is carried in a sustainable manner and in such the sewerage system can be maintained in a cost effective manner as and when required. It is therefore in the opinion of the consultant that the project does not foresee significant negative environmental impacts and should be allowed. Although the project will benefit the community, the proposed design has a number of disadvantages. Construction of pump stations underground on the streets is seen as a design issue that could have operational difficulties. Instead, the pump stations could be located within the residential block boundary with a small plot of land allocated for the pump station. Selection of sites can be focused on places such as mosque, symmetry and from other public buildings or plots of land. With the present design, a number of operational difficulties are anticipated. Experience from similar systems setup elsewhere in the Maldives have been studied and reviewed for this project. The reviews and experiences from these systems are not infavour of the present design and this is something that needs to be considered before undertaking the project. Sanitation systems must be both environmentally and socially friendly and acceptable. As important as the design is the operation and maintenance. Operation and maintenance should be viewed as a key sustainable aspect of similar projects. No matter how good a design is, the sustainability and acceptability will depend on how good the system functions in the operational period. With the pump stations being located on the road itself, there are a number of such difficulties which are equally as important as the engineering design aspects.Item Addendum 1 for environmental impact assessment of Hulhule-Hulhumale connecting link road development project in North Male‟, Atoll(2017-09) Water SolutionsThis report discusses the findings for the first addendum of the environmental impact assessment undertaken by Water Solutions Pvt. Ltd for undertaking the construction of the link road project between Hulhule-Hulhumale.. The project is proposed by Housing Development Corporation (HDC). The island of Hulhumale has been an important growth centre since its development. Presently, Hulhumale is the fastest growing urban centre and has residential as well as industrial developments to a scale that has never been experienced anywhere in the Maldives. Being close to Male‟ and the airport, Hulhumale has been attracting migrants from all over the Maldives. Construction of the Male‟ to Hulhule Bridge is presently the biggest infrastructure project of its kind under construction in Maldives. This project is very much tied with the present link road as this link road will provide direct connection of Hullhumale and the bridge, ultimately making the traffic flow from Hulhumale to Male‟. This road will be constructed on the east side of the existing land mass of Hulhule airport by reclaiming a small area further west of the existing island. The proposed road will consists of three zones. The details of the link road project is given in the Environmental Impact Assessment Report which is prepared by Water Solutions in August 2017 and the reason for the preparation of this first addendum report is due the change in location of sand burrow areas. In the Environmental Impact Assessment Report it was said that the sand will be obtained from the Hulhumale‟ phase 2, phase 1 and Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL). However now that idea has been dropped out and it is now planned to obtain sand from the eastern side of Uthuru Thila Falhu and the bathymetry shows the depth varies between 40 to 60 meters approximately. The details of the geographic coordinates are given in the section project descriptions and Study Area. This lagoon has been used as a sand burrow area for previous similar projects and is estimated to dredge 410,000 cubic meters of sand from this location. The dredging project is subcontracted to the Dredging International (Cyprus) and it is estimated to complete the project in five to seven days. Environmental impacts were assessed and most of the environmental impacts of the project have been identified as resulting mainly from the coral reef damage caused by reclamation of additional land. Mitigation measures for the negative impacts have been identified and outlined in detail, especially sedimentation control methods. The most important mitigation measure is the use of bund walls in the fill areas. This EIA addendum was undertaken to assess the environmental impacts of the proposed dredging and reclamation to acquire more land for the link road construction project. Based on the assessment, it has been identified that the major impacts of the project will be felt on the marine environment during the dredging and discharging of sand. This EIA addendum report also highlights some of the studies and research work undertaken in similar environments, especially in Male‟، to understand the impacts of reclamation and construction works close to reef slope and how this knowledge can be transferred to similar environments based on the type of coastal protection methods in use. The mitigation measures are provided in the report with alternatives. It is vital to conduct the activities, during both project planning and construction phase, in line with mitigation measures emphasized in the report. Socio-economic impacts of the proposed project will be immense as direct land connection of Male‟ and Hulhumale would bring significant benefits to the general public. Connection of Hulhumale, Male‟ and the airport is a vital transportation link that would save time and money for more than 200,000 people residing in the greater Male‟ region. The environmental impacts of various projects that are currently being undertaken in the airport region have caused significant damage to reef in various areas. This project will also have its impacts, but the impacts will not be anything greater than to what the environment has already been subjected to. Therefore a comprehensive monitoring programme has been suggested which covers components of coastal and marine environment to assess how the critical components of this project will affect the environment and to what extent. It is important to follow this monitoring programme not only to comply with the regulation but also to ensure that the impacts are measures in realistic terms. Though some of the components of this project contravenes with the Dredging and reclamation regulation; the amendments brought to the regulation facilitates that this project could be implemented. Hulhule island is a special zone and Under clause 10 of the dredging and reclamation regulation, special projects are exempted. As the environmental consultants, it is our opinion that this project should be allowed to proceed as the environmental impacts of this project does not pose serious concerns to the natural environment. It is a project that has far greater socio-economic benefits than these limited environmental impacts.Item Environmental impact assessment proposed mixed use residential complexes in Hulhumale’ hiyaa vehi project(2017-10) Zuhair, Mohamed; Shakir, Ibrahimi) 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.Item Environmental impact assessment report development of 100 bed hospital at Addu City(2017-10) Land and Marine Environmental Resources Group1.1 Background The non-technical summary outlines the findings of the Environmental Impact Assessment of the construction and development of a 100 bed tertiary level hospital at Hithadhoo, Addu City. The proponent of this project is the Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure and total estimated cost of the project is approximately MVR 162 million. The proposed project will be developed through redevelopment of the Equatorial Convention Centre which was developed in Addu City to host the SAARC Summit in 2011. Parts of some ponds introduced for aesthetic and flood control purposes within landscaping of ECC development would be backfilled for the construction of the Services and Utilities buildings on the south western and south eastern side of the main building. Once completed, the hospital will be handed over to the Ministry of Health, as the main operator and regulator of the Health sector in the Maldives. The facility will be constructed and developed to provide care in a number of departments and areas, details of which are provided in Section 5.2.1. 1.2 Key impacts, mitigation measures and alternatives Impacts on the environment from various activities of the project development work (constructional impacts) and operational impacts have been identified through interviews with the project management team, field data collection and surveys and are also based on past experience of consultant in similar projects. Impacts were analysed for their significance with the aid of a Leopold Matrix. In any development project, major direct impacts to the environment occur mainly during the construction phase. Potential direct or indirect impacts on the environment from the proposed project include: Moderate impacts on pond water and groundwater resource due to backfilling works; Minor impact on vegetation due to the need to cut down vegetation located at the plots allocated for construction of infrastructure; Impact due to air and noise pollution during construction work; Impact due to flooding within vicinity Impact due to waste generation, especially during operational phase Risk of accidents on hospital staff and patients Positive impact on social wellbeing and health due to provision of good quality care Mitigation measures are discussed for the activities which would have potential impacts during the construction and operational phase of the project. In general, during the construction stage it is important to use a method of construction which has the least impact on the environment. Specific measures highlighted include: • Preplanning ways so as to expose backfill material sourced from MRDC, Addu City to rainfall, to decrease its salinity • Proper waste management and disposal to mitigate issues due to domestic waste and hospital related biohazardous waste • Establish Standard Operating Procedures for all departments and facilities at the hospital, so as to avoid accidents which pose risks to the staff and patients Detailed mitigation measures are discussed in Section 11 of the report. Alternatives has been considered with respect to project location, as there is disagreement from the Council regarding proposed location. While proposed location is an existing structure and thus project development would have minor impact on environment, it is also considered by the island community as a site of significance and hence do not want to turn the facility into a hospital. The no-project scenario is also considered, which would mean that all environmental impacts due to the project and disagreements regarding use of ECC for the project would no longer be an issue. However, this means that health care for the population of Addu City will be provided as is now, through the Regional Hospital, which does not offer all of the facilities as proposed in the project. Hence, the community would not benefit from many benefits offered through better health care facilities and services offered through the project. The environmental impacts predicted for the project are minor to moderate, given that the project development is mainly at an existing structure. Hence the benefits of developing the hospital and better health care facilities outweigh the cost to the environment and are seen to be far more beneficial than the cancellation of the project. Therefore the “no-project” scenario is not an ideal solution and it is recommended that the project be continued, but with the proper implementation of all mitigation measures proposed in the report. One key recommendation of the consultant is the formulation and implementation of regulations which regulate the healthcare sector, especially those related to development of healthcare facilities (and criteria) and waste disposal from healthcare facilities. This is crucial for the improvement of the sector through both proper service provision and mitigating environmental impacts.Item First addendum: K. Villimale environment impact assessment to Villimale' west harbour construction project, Kaafu Atoll, Maldives(2017-10) Hussain, FirdousThis is the first Addendum to the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) for the west harbour project in Villimale’, Kaafu Atoll. The project is proposed by Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure. A Scoping Meeting for EIA addendum was held on 13 July 2017, following the addendum application where main issues related to the proposed change were discussed. This EIA addendum report aims to assess the issues highlighted in Terms of Reference (ToR) agreed between EPA and proponent. Furthermore it is to fulfil the requirement of the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act of the Maldives (Law No. 4/93). Construction of K.Villimale’ West Harbour was contracted with MTCC on 19th May 2015, whereas an environmental assessment was undertaken for this project on November 2015 by MEECO. Construction phase of the project was commenced during November 2016 during the extended period of EIA DS, but it was halted within few days to bring changes to the concept. According to the EIA, condition of the existing harbour has been deteriorated over the years with the existing sand-cement breakwater fallen apart providing no wave protection from the west side. In addition to being used as a harbouring area, west harbour in Villimale’ also serves as a boat beaching and maintenance area. On top of these issues, the project aims to provide a proper landing craft (LC) loading area for waste transportation between Villimale’ and Thilafushi as the island has never had such an area before. Initially waste loading was carried out from a temporary ramp located on the west side of the island near the waste disposal area. The ramp was open to the sea on the west with no protecting seawall or reakwater. Similarly, current ramp used by LC is a temporary rock boulder bed shaped in the form of a ramp which is located at the southern end of the west harbour old breakwater. The area still phase the issues of being open to the predominant wave direction during the southwest monsoon. Considering the issues, Vilimale’ is in urgent need of a south west harbour reconstruction accommodating a better and feasible ramp for LC operation. In the initial harbour concept, LC loading ramp was proposed to be constructed at the southern end of the harbour in such a way that it can be accessed from within the harbour. Consequently, operating LCs would be subjected to move back and forth along a length of about 100m (total length of the harbour and channel) which is a risky task given the size of the landing craft and the anchoring vessels. Maneuvering a LC within the harbour may not be practical as the harbour width is 21m and clearance from all sides may not be available at all times of operation. LCs operated by WAMCO for waste transportation measures around 35m by 10m in size. At present, LC operates to Villamle’ around 2-3 days a week. However, WAMCO is planning to continue operation every day to cater the increasing amount of waste from Villimale’. To continue the operation smoothly on a regular basis without obstruction, a proper loading area with suitable anchoring facilities are needed. Therefore, an amendment to the initial concept has been proposed to dredge a new channel from the south end of the harbour, opening to west which will mostly be used by the LCs in waste transportation between Villimale and Thilafushi. The channel measures 34m by 16m in dimension with its south side proposed to be protected by concrete T-units. A concrete ramp measuring 16m by 12m will be constructed on the eastern side of the channel. The ramp will be reoriented to face the newly proposed channel. This is a much needed amendment as the initial location of the ramp is not feasible for LC operation. Though the channel will be open to the western sea, ramp area will provide proper anchoring facilities with a quay-wall to anchor alongside. In the EIA report the consultant has recommended to consider including culverts in the breakwater to enhance water circulation to prevent water stagnation within the harbour basin. But the newly proposed channel will ensure proper water circulation within the harbour alleviating the need for culverts. This addendum addresses the mentioned modifications to the harbour concept together with its environmental aspects. Thus, Villimale’ West harbour project with the proposed change will alleviate three main issues related to socio-economic development of the island. They are providing a safe and secure harbouring facilities to the vessels together with an easily accessible beaching area and a feasible waste transfer mechanism for the LCs of WAMCO. Environmental impacts of the proposed change were assessed for both construction and operation stage of the project. Most of the identified impacts are positive as they will improve the socio-economic situation of the island. As in all construction projects of this nature and explained in Villimale’ harbour construction EIA, the main negative environmental impact of the project is identified to be the movement and settlement of sediment on the reef and habitat loss during the dredging and breakwater construction. However, the benthic cover of the project area including the proposed channel location is predominantly composed of dead corals, sand and rubble. Hence, combined negative effects are considered to be insignificant compared to the positive effects of the project with the proposed change. Effective impact mitigation measures are to be taken during the construction. It is advised to keep the proposed channel closed until all the dredging is carried out which will prevent the dispersion of suspended sediments. In addition to this, it is strongly recommended to adhere to the mitigation measures proposed in the initial EIA which is sufficient for the project. A special attention should be paid to protect the coral gardening area on the north of the west harbour against sedimentation. Environment monitoring program discussed in 2015 EIA is sufficient and should be followed. Additionally, it is important to visually access and conduct a community consultation to identify whether the harbour basin experiences rough turbulence due to the two channels to an extent where it makes the usage of harbour difficult. In an environmental and technical point of view, the proposed change to the west harbour concept of K.Villimale is justified and beneficial in number of ways.Item Environmental impact assessment reclamation of 15 hectares of land at Thilafushi for development of the regional waste management facility for Zone 3(2017-11) Water SolutionsThis report discusses the findings of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) study undertaken by Water Solutions Pvt. Ltd. at the request of Ministry of Environment and Energy for the proposed reclamation of 15 hectares from the shallow lagoon at Thilafalhu, Male’ Atoll. Thilafalhu is the lagoon where Thilafushi is located. The reclamation and coastal protection project is the first step to establish a Regional Waste Management Facility for Zone III at Thilafushi to manage and dispose waste which is generated from islands in the central 4 atolls of the Maldives. The reclamation project involves reclamation 15 hectares of shallow lagoon at Thilafalhu, Thilafushi to height of +1.7 m above mean sea level. Sand is proposed to be borrowed from the lagoon of Thilafushi near the reclamation area located on northern side of the proposed site. It is estimated that total of 525,000 cbm of sand will be required for this reclamation. The sand would be dredged using Cutter Suction Dredger and dredged sand will be pumped to the reclamation area from the dredger. The reclaimed land would be protected using 510 m rock boulder revetment on southern side and 475 m revetment on northern side. Ministry of Environment and Energy would undertake a detail design using their engineer based on observations, issues, and concerns raised during the EIA process. Environmental impacts of this project were assessed and most of the environmental impacts of the project have been identified as resulting from the dredging and reclamation works. Dredging to borrow sand for the reclamation work will be undertaken using Cutter Suction Dredger and this is particularly a method that creates lot of sedimentation. Reclamation work for filling and levelling work would be undertaken using excavators and bulldozer which will have an impact on the marine environment during the initial stage of the project. It is anticipated that impacts of this projects will be felt on the marine environment of the Thialfushi reef system. Mitigation measures for the negative impacts have been identified and outlined in the report. Sedimentation control methods have been specifically focused to reduce its impact on the surrounding marine environment. An important mitigation measure is the use of bund walls in the reclamation area to contain sedimentation and reduce its impact on the marine environment. In addition, completing the dredging and filling works in the shortest time frame, during north east monsoon is also a significant mitigation measure to minimize the impact of sedimentation on the marine environment. The proposed mitigation measures shall be followed in order to minimize environmental damage. The measures proposed to mitigate environmental impacts is considered to be appropriate, thereby minimizing the impact by about 90%. The negative environmental impacts of the proposed project would be sedimentation and destruction of the lagoon and damage to some areas of the reef, which will cause death of corals in the direct impact zone and partial death of corals in other areas of the coral reef. During dredging works, the sedimentation will also affect the fish species in the vicinity of the project area. Several alternatives to the proposed project were considered, all of these alternatives cannot be implemented for various reasons including issues related to regulations, cost, and environment factors. The present project design seems to be feasible option in terms of costs, durability and safety. It is inevitable that there would be negative environmental impacts of this project. It will not be possible to avoid environmental damage entirely, but ways to minimize damage are critical factors to consider during implementation. An Environmental Management Plan (EMP) with environmental monitoring has been recommended including important elements that require regular checks. This monitoring component shall be adhered to and will allow the assessment of changes due to the implementation of the proposed project. As the socioeconomic impacts are going to be felt in the long term, monitoring these changes is very essential. The proposed reclamation pose threats to the marine environment of the Thilafushi and its lagoon. There will be direct and indirect damage to marine environment in the vicinity of the project site. Some of the corals patches, mostly in the reclamation area in the shallow lagoon will die due to smothering as well as from construction activities. But these are damages that cannot be entirely avoided. The project involves negative environmental impacts, such impacts are not severe as not to go ahead with this project. The project is justifiable in light of the socio-economic conditions and anticipated benefits resulting from the project, which seem to outweigh the negative environmental impacts.Item Environmental impact assessment report agricultural development project at Hulhidhoo, Vaavu Atoll(2017-11) Land and Marine Environmental Resources Group1.1 Background The non-technical summary outlines the findings of the Environmental Impact Assessment of the proposed agricultural development at Hulhidhoo, Vaavu Atoll by Aarah Investment Pvt Ltd. The capital cost of the project is MVR 10.43 million. 1.2 Project Detail The proposed project involves the development of Hulhidhoo as mix-use island with an agricultural and tourism component. The agricultural component of the project utilizes hydroponics technology with a vertical farming system to cultivate vegetables and herbs. The produce will be supplied to resorts within the Atoll. The tourism component of the project involves the construction of a Water Sports Centre at the western side of the island. This will cater to the resorts, and can also be used by the atoll community, if desired. In addition to the two key components, the project also involves construction of a football court and coffee shops on the island. 1.3 Key impacts, mitigation measures and alternatives 1.3.1 Key impacts Impacts on the environment from various activities of the project development works (constructional impacts) and operation of the facility (operational impacts) have been identified through interviews with the resort management, field data collection and surveys and are also based on past experience of consultation in similar development projects, as well as a review of similar projects. Impact analysis was done using the Leopold matrix. The potential direct or indirect impacts on the environment (on land and reef system) from the proposed project include: ➢ Moderate direct impacts on the marine ecosystem quality due to construction of access jetty (piling works) ➢ Major impact on terrestrial environment due to need for vegetation, especially that at the mangrove area ➢ Minor impact on groundwater due to dewatering during construction stage and use of septic tank system during operational stage ➢ Minor impact on seawater quality due to brine discharge during operational phase ➢ Impact on ecosystem and air quality, due to solid waste generation during construction and operational phase Positive impacts due to the project are the positive social impacts, in terms of job availability especially during the operational stage. The training programmes for the Atoll community in the area of hydroponics also opens opportunities for new business ventures. The open access to the water sports centre and football pitch is a major social benefit, as this promotes a more inclusive development. Furthermore, the implementation of the solid waste disposal programme by the proponent as a part of the CSR component of the project, is a major benefit for the community, as it addresses a key issues being faced by all islands communities of Maldives. Overall, the project has a positive impact, on the national economy, and that of the Atoll community. Additional impacts are discussed in Section 9 of the report. 1.3.2 Mitigation measures The severity of impacts is predicted by reviewing the design plans and construction methods. Mitigation measures are formulated in light of the findings by the project engineers (for the different methods to be used during the construction phase). Mitigation measures are discussed for the construction and operational stage of the project. During the construction stage it is important to take measures to minimize impact on the environment due to the various construction methods. A construction method that has the least impact on terrestrial and/or marine environment has to be utilized. Detailed mitigation measures are discussed in Section 11 of the report. 1.3.3 Alternatives Considering the alternatives for the project in terms of location and type of economic activity to be carried out has been decided by the Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture and the proponent, through lease of the island to the proponent for a specific purpose. Apart from the type of economic activity and location, other aspects for which alternatives have been considered in the report are: ➢ Construction method of jetty ➢ Location of M&E facilities building ➢ Feed water intake method Details of the various alternatives considered and the selected alternatives are shown in Section 10 of the report. Of these, the location of M&E facilities building is of significance, as the alternative location greatly minimizes the impact due to vegetation clearance, as it offers the opportunity to avoid clearance from the mangrove area. Thus, from an environmental aspect the consultant strongly feels the alternative location is the more feasible option and thus this option is selected. The no-project scenario is also considered, which would mean that all environmental impacts due to the project would no longer be an issue. Environmental impacts due to the proposed project are minor to moderate overall, while discontinuation of the project means a loss of income and revenue to the proponent and the national economy, as well as a loss of number of benefits for the Atoll community. Hence, it is concluded that continuation of the project with the implementation of the different mitigation measures to minimize environmental impacts is a feasible option.