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Item Environmental impact assessment for the proposed water supply and sewerage system in Hulhumalé Phase II, Malé City, Kaafu Atoll, Maldives(2016-02) SandcaysThis report discusses the findings of an environmental impact study under the proposed water supply and sewerage system project in the newly reclaimed Phase II of Hulhumalé. The project is proposed by Malé Water and Sewerage Company Ltd. The project entails establishment of a comprehensive water and sewerage system in Hulhumalé Second Phase. The proposed system is similar to the existing system in phase 1 and includes the provision of water and sewerage services to all of the proposed neighbourhoods and commercial areas including the proposed Tourism District, Yacht Marina and Knowledge Park. The project takes place in the newly reclaimed phase 2 of Hulhumalé on the north of existing phase 1. Hulhumalé is part of the nation’s capital Malé, developed as a separate island but soon to be connected by the largest bridge in the Maldives. The existing size of the island is approximately 320 hectares including the reclaimed area of Phase 2. Hulhumalé is the most planned development in the Greater Malé Region so far. The proposed water supply system incorporates desalination facility with a total capacity of 10,000 m3 per day to be installed in different phases of the project. All requested facilities will be provided with metered connections. HDPE pipes will be laid on the roads as shown. In addition, a number of alternatives to the proposed project components have been identified in this document. Some of these alternatives consider alternative means of wastewater disposal including ground disposal, alternative means of water supply and alternative outfall locations. The most preferable alternative to the proposed desalination only water scheme is integration of a rainwater harvesting component. Though this alternative has few advantages over the proposed, at this stage in development of Hulhumale’ Phase II, it would be impractical to implement it. It has also been recommended to use solar desalination technologies since the initial demand would be low and production capacity minimal. Environmental impacts were assessed for both the construction and operational phase of the project. Most of the environmental impacts identified for the construction phase of the project were minor negative; these include excavation and its impact on the landscape of reclaimed land and sedimentation from installing the outfalls. However, the impacts identified for the operational phase of the project were mostly moderate to major positive; averting possible contamination and salinization of ground water and reduction of related health hazards. Disposal of sewage via a sea outfall is considered as minor negative impact while the alternative of disposing to ground has numerous major negative impacts. The provision of safe and adequate supply of potable water enhances living environment and provides economic opportunities such as tourism establishments including guest houses and city hotels. The main mitigation measures for this project during the construction phase are similar to other water and sewerage projects such as dust control plans, working during low- tide as much as possible and rigorous supervision. The design shall also ensure that dewatering is minimized. As for the operational phase trained maintenance staff to service the water and sewerage system and regular check-ups has been suggested in addition to monitoring water quality as well as reef health for potential impacts. In conclusion, it appears justified from a technical, administrative, socio-economic, health and an environmental point of view, to carry out the proposed water and sewerage system development project. It is recommended to proceed the project as proposed.Item Environmental impact assessment for the proposed shore protection project in Kurendhoo, Lhaviyani Atoll, Maldives(2015-12) SandcaysThis report discusses the findings of an environmental impact study under the shore protection project proposed for Kurendhoo in Lhaviyani Atoll. The project is proposed by Ministry of Environment and Energy. The project comprises of the protection of the eroding area on the southeast corner end of the island, adjoining the football ground. Shoreline at this part of the island has to be protected for safeguarding the football ground and protect the area from severe erosion. A 220m long rock boulder revetment has been proposed. The project also involves backfill of the proposed revetment area and behind the previously proposed breakwater on the north by getting sand from approved borrow areas. The project will be undertaken together with the ongoing harbour project and is estimated to take about 120 days with a manpower requirement estimated at 27 and involving heavy machinery including excavator, dump truck, loader and crane. A number of alternatives to the proposed project components have been identified in this document. Of these, the preferred alternative is a groyne field with a nearshore submerged breakwater. The cost of the preferred alternative is similar and the protection to updrift and downdrift locations are further enhanced by appropriately-designed groyne field. Other alternatives include just a groyne field or a semi-submerged breakwater. Rock boulders is the preferred material for the proposed shore protection while geotextile bags or geotextile tubes may be used as a cheaper alternative but would not be as effective as rock boulders. There are not many options to be identified as borrow areas since the island is surrounded by quite narrow reef flats and there are no lagoon areas with fine sand. Therefore, the alternative would be to bring material from a lagoon nearby and have the material taken to the fill location in trucks or pumped to fill location. However, due to the small scale of the project, alternative borrow areas have not been considered except those areas that have already been approved. Environmental impacts were assessed for both the construction and operational phases of the project. Most of the direct, negative environmental impacts identified for the construction phase of the project were minor negative; the main impact being sedimentation during the filling of the proposed fill areas. However, these impacts are of low significance while the benefits of the proposed project outweigh the negative impacts including the protection to the football field, shore protection to the beach in the area as well as downdrift locations. The fill areas shown in the proposed project are the same areas identified in the EIA and the EIA Addendum for the harbour project. Therefore, in principle those areas have been approved. However, for the purpose of this EIA, the borrow areas are different from those proposed earlier. According to the Council, the area identified on the SW side is preferable for dredging because this area is more suitable for a creating an area for swimming since the reef extent on this area is greater than in other areas. Since it does not have adequate swimming depths, deepening this area provides the required fill for the southeast end while creating swimming area for the island that lacks swimmable area around the island. The creation of the swimming area or an artificial beach in the proposed area, however, is not within the scope of this EIA report. The impact on coral reef is also less in this area since the net flow in this area is generally towards the eroded southern end and the reef flat and slope are devoid of live coral and mainly with bedrock. For the fill area on the north, the harbour area would be quite suitable as it would provide sufficient material for the proposed fill area while keeping the impacts to an already impacted area. Therefore, it is considered most suitable to dredge material for the northern fill from the harbour area and that for the southeast fill from the southwest lagoon. The small borrow area shown on the north may be considered only if adequate fill material cannot be obtained. Since there are a few impacts, there are no specific mitigation measures for the proposed project. General mitigation measures, involving appropriate construction management such as working during low-tide as much as possible and rigorous supervision during project implementation are recommended Since monitoring has not been undertaken in the past for the harbour project, it is recommended to carry out monitoring for this project. This project has linkages with the harbour project and therefore the recommended mitigation measures and monitoring programmes in the EIA and Addendum for the harbour project shall be undertaken in conjunction with the proposed shore protection project. In conclusion, it appears justified, from a technical and environmental point of view, to carry out the proposed shore protection project. Since alternatives have not been considered or discussed with the relevant stakeholders including the Council, it is recommended to consider all potential alternatives to shore protection, including those identified by the EIA Consultants, before proceeding with the project.Item Environmental impact assessment for the proposed sewerage system in Ihavandhoo, Haa Alifu Atoll, Maldives(2015-11) SandcaysThis report discusses the findings of an environmental impact study under the proposed sewerage system project at HA. Ihavandhoo. The project is proposed by Ministry of Environment and Energy. The project entails establishment of a proper island-wide sewerage system with a sea outfall. The proposed project will involve installing a pipe network to collect sewage from all the households on the island and necessary pumping stations. Currently raw sewage is disposed onto the ground via house-level soak-pits; polluting groundwater greatly. The proposed outfall will pump wastewater beyond the house-reef at over 7m depth. A number of alternatives to the proposed project components have been identified in this document. Of these, the preferred alternative is to change the outfall location. It is also proposed to consider a treatment plant in the design, though the consultants are of the opinion, proposed system without a treatment plant but changed outfall location is the best option. Other alternatives include considering different disposal options; ground and lagoon, which are not recommended for reasons of greater environmental pollution. Environmental impacts were assessed for both the construction and operational phase of the project. Most of the environmental impacts identified for the construction phase of the project were minor negative; these include sedimentation from installing the outfall and temporary salinization of groundwater from de-watering to lay out the pipe network and pump stations. However, the impacts identified for the operational phase of the project were mostly moderate to major positive; improvement of groundwater quality from stopping the current sewage disposal practise and reduction of related health hazards. Disposal of sewage via proposed sea outfall is considered to have a minor negative impact. The main mitigation measures for this project during the construction phase are similar to other sewerage projects such as dust control plans, working during low- tide as much as possible and rigorous supervision. In case of deterioration of groundwater quality due to potential dewatering during construction of lifting stations in residential area, measures to water plants in the area that may be affected due to dewatering shall be in place. The design shall also ensure that dewatering is minimized. As for the operational phase trained maintenance staff to service the sewerage system and regular check-ups has been suggested in addition to monitoring water quality as well as reef health for potential impacts. Increasing awareness on groundwater conservation and promoting sustainable groundwater aquifer management, especially the skimming well technology has been suggested. The Proponent is willing to undertake monitoring during and after the construction phase in addition to undertaking the mitigation measures proposed by the consultants. In conclusion, it appears justified from a technical, administrative and to some extent environmental point of view, to carry out the proposed sewerage system development project. The alternative of wastewater treatment will involve greater operational costs; therefore, it is recommended to proceed the project as proposed while keeping the option open for future wastewater treatment, as and when required.Item Environmental impact assessment for the proposed sea cucumber aquaculture project in Boduhaikondi, Raa Atoll(2016-06) SandcaysThis report addresses the environmental concerns of the proposed mariculture project for the farming of sea cucumber in the lagoon of Boduhaikondi, Raa Atoll. Sea cucumber juveniles and grouper fingerlings will be bought from local hatcheries such as the sea cucumber hatchery at Nalandhoo until the proposed hatchery has been established. Sea cucumber juveniles (over four months old) will be put in the lagoon to grow out in its natural habitat to the adult size. The sea cucumber will grow to adult size in a year. The Project is proposed by Ali Ahroosh Ibrahim, M. Meadows. Boduhaiykondi is a small island towards the middle of Raa Atoll close to Dhuvaafaru. It has been leased for agricultural/fishery purposes by the Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture. With the potential for mariculture with a sizeable lagoon with a small deep lagoon, acting as a natural habitat for sea cucumber, the proposed aquaculture or mariculture project has been considered as a potential investment. Sea cucumber production using fingerlings from Nalandhoo will form the initial component of the proposed project. A hatchery will be later established on the island for improved productivity. Sea cucumbers will be fed with food that will be imported to some extent but locally available seagrass and other food sources will be given priority. Sea cumber will be at the right size in 9 to 10 months following which they will be harvested, processed, packed and exported. A processing facility will be established on site. In addition to staff accommodation, power house, fuel storage, water supply and sewerage, telecommunication services, jetty and channel, the following investments directly targeted at sea cucumber production will be established. Sea cage fish farm in the lagoon Sea cucumber boiling and processing facility Ice making facility Storage facility for processed sea cucumbers Environmental concerns from the proposed project include: Sedimentation of some degree during channel dredging and jetty installation. The channel being about 3m on average, it will require only the removal of rock outcrops in the channel. Therefore, impact will be small. The impact of disease transmissions on wild populations. This impact is considered to be minor negative and depends on stocking densities and feeding. Environmental controls shall be established from the very onset of the project to mitigate disease prevalence and ensure a healthy environment. The impact cages may have on wild fish populations. Although this impact is not considered to be significant, this impact has to be studied in detail during the implementation stage. The genetic or competitive effect escapees may have on wild stock. Since juveniles that are not able to escape are used and exotic species would not be imported, this impact is unlikely to occur. In the case of cage culture using locally found species, genetic pollution will not be a concern even in case of escapees and new diseases will not be introduced to the wild stock. However, an incubation of local diseases present in the wild stock may be a potential cause for concern in case of high stocking densities. Therefore, stocking densities shall be kept to an optimum at all times. The likelihood for habitat modification could occur in case of imported broodstock causing stress and related disease prevalence. However, this is a minor impact not considered to be significant. 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. The overall environmental impacts of the project have been assessed using appropriate matrices and the results indicated that the proposed project had net positive impact. That is, the project has no major adverse impacts on the environment as far as current knowledge is concerned. Given that the project has moderate level of socio-economic benefits and possible environmental benefits, it is recommended to allow the project to proceed as proposed. However, due to the project being among a few of its kind in the country, 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.Item Environmental impact assessment for the proposed sewerage system in Nolhivaram, Haa Alifu Atoll, Maldives(2016-06) SandcaysThis report discusses the findings of an environmental impact study under the proposed sewerage system project at HDh. Nolhivaram. The project is proposed by Ministry of Environment and Energy. The project entails establishment of a proper island-wide sewerage system with a sea outfall. The proposed project will involve installing a pipe network to collect sewage from all the households on the island and necessary pumping stations. Currently raw sewage is disposed onto the ground via house-level soak-pits; polluting groundwater greatly. The proposed outfall will pump wastewater beyond the house-reef at over 7m depth. A number of alternatives to the proposed project components have been identified in this document. Of these, the preferred alternative is to change the outfall location directly north of the island. It is also proposed to consider a treatment plant in the design, though the consultants are of the opinion, proposed system without a treatment plant but alternative outfall location is the best option. Other alternatives include considering different disposal options; ground and lagoon, which are not recommended for reasons of greater environmental pollution. Environmental impacts were assessed for both the construction and operational phase of the project. Most of the environmental impacts identified for the construction phase of the project were minor negative; these include excavation and related difficulties to road uses, sedimentation from installing the outfall and temporary salinization of groundwater from dewatering to lay out the pipe network and pump stations. However, the impacts identified for the operational phase of the project were mostly moderate to major positive; improvement of groundwater quality from stopping the current sewage disposal practise and reduction of related health hazards. Disposal of sewage via a sea outfall is considered as minor negative impact while the lack of multiple lagoon outfalls will help to improve the quality of the lagoons which is a primary recreational area of the island. The main mitigation measures for this project during the construction phase are similar to other sewerage projects such as dust control plans, working during low-tide during pipe installation and rigorous supervision. In case of deterioration of groundwater quality due to potential dewatering during construction of lifting stations in residential area, measures to water plants in the area that may be affected due to dewatering shall be in place. The design shall also ensure that dewatering is minimized. As for the operational phase trained maintenance staff to service the sewerage system and regular check-ups has been suggested in addition to monitoring water quality as well as reef health for potential impacts. Increasing awareness on groundwater conservation and promoting sustainable groundwater aquifer management, especially the skimming well technology has been suggested. The Proponent is willing to undertake monitoring during and after the construction phase in addition to undertaking the mitigation measures proposed by the consultants. In conclusion, it appears justified from a technical, administrative and to some extent environmental point of view, to carry out the proposed sewerage system development project. The alternative of wastewater treatment will involve greater operational costs; therefore, it is recommended to proceed the project as proposed while keeping the option open for future wastewater treatment, as and when required.Item Environmental impact assessment for the proposed water and sewerage system in Dhiffushi, Kaafu Atoll, Maldives(2016-10) SandcaysThis report discusses the findings of an environmental impact study under the proposed water and sewerage system project at K. Dhiffushi. The project is proposed by the Secretariat of Dhiffushi Council. The project entails establishment of a proper island-wide water supply and sewerage system. The proposed project will involve installing a pipe network to collect sewage and wastewater from all the households on the island and necessary pumping stations. Currently, raw sewage and wastewater is disposed to the lagoon via multiple outfalls polluting the nearshore environment while there are a few house-level soak-pits polluting groundwater. The proposed outfall will pump wastewater beyond the house-reef at over 7m depth. The proposed water supply network will be an integrated system consisting of harvested rainwater from roofs of community buildings with desalinated water which will be treated and distributed to households through the water supply network. Rainwater is the main source of potable water used in the island as each house has a 2500 litre tank. For other uses groundwater is used which is either pumped out by electric pump or rarely by manually using a handcrafted bucket (dhaani). Water intake will be by using boreholes. The boreholes will be drilled and installed according to the Borehole Drilling Guidelines administered by the Environmental Protection Agency. The brine discharge will be inside the harbour. It is important to provide adequate supply of potable water and provide appropriate wastewater disposal systems to provide safe and adequate supply of water and to minimize faecal contamination and foul smell in the groundwater, which the community is highly dependent upon. Furthermore, the small water storage facilities at household level presents water shortage issues during the dry season while contamination of the groundwater lens with wastewater effluent and salinization of the lens has become an increasingly important issue. Several alternatives to the proposed project components have been identified in this report. Some of these alternatives consider alternative means of wastewater disposal including treatment, alternative means of water supply and alternative outfall locations. Since groundwater wells are fixed with electric pumps to draw water which has been the main reason for excessive drawdown and subsequent salinization of the freshwater lens, alternatives involving sustainable groundwater use such as skimming wells have been recommended. Wastewater treatment is considered as a favourable option while it has been argued that if the effluent can be disposed of at an appropriate location, there would not be a need for treatment since there will be good mixing and flushing in such areas. It has also been recommended to use solar desalination technologies since the initial demand would be low. Environmental impacts were assessed for both the construction and operational phase of the project. Most of the environmental impacts identified for the construction phase of the project were minor negative; these include excavation and related difficulties to road uses, sedimentation from installing the outfall and temporary salinization of groundwater from dewatering to lay out the pipe network and pump stations. However, the impacts identified for the operational phase of the project were mostly moderate to major positive; improvement of groundwater quality and nearshore environment from stopping the current sewage disposal practise and reduction of related health hazards. Disposal of sewage via a sea outfall is considered as minor negative impact while the lack of multiple lagoon outfalls will help to improve the quality of the lagoons which is a primary recreational area of the island. The main mitigation measures for this project during the construction phase are similar to other water supply and sewerage projects such as dust control plans, working during low-tide during pipe installation and rigorous supervision. In case of deterioration of groundwater quality due to potential dewatering during construction of lifting stations in residential area, measures to water plants in the area that may be affected due to dewatering shall be in place. The design shall also ensure that dewatering is minimized. As for the operational phase trained maintenance staff to service the sewerage system and regular check-ups have been suggested in addition to monitoring water quality as well as reef health for potential impacts. Increasing awareness on groundwater conservation and promoting sustainable groundwater aquifer management, especially the skimming well technology has been suggested. The Proponent is willing to undertake monitoring during and after the construction phase in addition to undertaking the mitigation measures proposed by the consultants. In conclusion, it appears justified from a technical, administrative and to some extent environmental point of view, to carry out the proposed water supply and sewerage system development project. The alternative of wastewater treatment will involve greater operational costs; therefore, it is recommended to proceed with the project as proposed while keeping the option open for future wastewater treatment, as and when required.Item Environmental impact assessment for the proposed beaching area in HA. Dhidhdhoo, Maldives(2015-12) SandcaysThis report discusses the findings of an Environmental Impact Assessment for the proposed development of a beaching area in HA. Dhidhdhoo. The project is proposed by Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure. At present, unavailability of space has forced boat owners to travel great distances to do small scale servicing to boats. In cases where boats are beached on Dhidhdhoo, being too close to residential areas has made these activities a public nuisance and a health hazard. The project aims at providing a suitable space for boat owners of Dhidhdhoo and nearby islands for vessel beaching and related work on the island away from residential areas. The proposed project entails dredging a 24m by 266m access channel, 110m by 76m manoeuvring area and reclamation of 0.54Ha at the southwest side of the island. There are very few practical alternatives to the proposed project; alternatives to reclamation shape and location are assessed in the report. 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 positive resulting mainly from improved socio-economic situation of Dhidhdhoo. The main negative environmental impact of the project is identified to be the possible movement of low to moderate levels of sediment on the reef during dredging and reclamation. Movement and settlement of fine sediments are expected to occur on the reef flat to a small degree. However, effects of this would not be severe as sediment plume is not expected to last longer and live coral cover at the location is minimal. Overall, the negative environmental impacts of the project are short-term and of moderate significance while long term socio-economic benefits are numerous. Hence the impact matrices done for the project indicates a net positive impact. Impact mitigation measures are few. In order to mitigate movement of sediment plume onto the reef, bunds around reclamation area and creating settlement ponds during reclamation is suggested. Regular environmental monitoring and reporting is an essential element of the EIA process. During the construction phase, in-situ monitoring of total suspended solids and turbidity is usually undertaken in dredging and reclamation projects to ensure that water quality criteria are met and sedimentation on the reef does not occur. It is recommended to incorporate these into an island-wide monitoring programme, which is not within the scope of this EIA report. In conclusion, it appears justified from a technical and environmental point of view to carry out the proposed project to develop a beaching area in Dhidhdhoo. However, before start of construction phase, the consultants recommend evaluating alternative reclamation shape proposed in this report; as to reduce potential impact of interrupting longshore sediment movement.Item Environmental impact assessment for the proposed development of slipway in Thulusdhoo, Kaafu Atoll, Maldives(2016-05) SandcaysThis report discusses the findings of an Environmental Impact Assessment for the proposed development of slipway in Thulusdhoo, Kaafu Atoll. The project is proposed by Eagle Marine and Engineering Pvt. Ltd. The proposed project include dismantling of the existing pier jetty on the project site, dredging the slipway burrow to -4 MSL, sheet piling the slipway burrow and either side of the slipway (approximately 550ft). For coastal protection, sheet piling using piling hammer has been proposed. The project was planned at early 2015, however due to the coastal protection works of the Thulusdoo, subsequent to the dredging has caused some changes to the project. The project sites land area has been increased with the new reclamation. Environmental impacts were assessed for both the construction and operation phase of the project. Due to the strong positive economic impact and minor/negligible negative environmental impacts of the project, overall impact of the project is positive for the proposed project. The main negative environmental impact of the project is identified to be the possible movement of low levels of sediment towards the reef during dredging activities. Movement and settlement of fine sediments are expected to occur on the reef flat to a small degree. However, this would be negligible due to the small volume of excavation involved in this project and absence of high live coral cover at this location. Due to the small size of project and project setting, the environmental impacts of the project are considered to be minor negative. The impact matrices done for the project indicates a net positive impact potential for the project. Major impact of such coastal excavation projects are focussed of marine environment, which includes smothering of corals and benthic fauna from sedimentation. However, presence of a deep lagoon adjacent to the project site which would act as a sand burrow before sediment reaches to the house reef the impact of sedimentation to house reef in minimal. In addition, the fill-up rate of slipway burrow will be monitored after the construction phase. Furthermore, general best practises of works have also been recommended for the proposed project in order to prevent or minimise the negative impacts that may arise from the project. Regular environmental monitoring and reporting is an essential element of the EIA process. During the construction phase, in-situ monitoring of total suspended solids and turbidity is usually undertaken in dredging projects to ensure that water quality criteria are met and sedimentation on the reef does not occur; therefore water quality tests during construction phase was proposed for this project as well. In conclusion, it appears justified from a technical and environmental point of view, to carry out the proposed development of slipway at K. Thulusdhoo.Item Environmental impact assessment for the proposed water supply and sewerage system in Hulhudhuffaru, Raa Atoll, Maldives(2016-03) SandcaysThis report discusses the findings of an environmental impact study under the proposed water supply and sewerage system project at Raa Hulhudhuffaru. The project is proposed by the Ministry of Environment and Energy. The project entails establishment of a proper island-wide water and sewerage system. The proposed project involves installing a water distribution network to supply desalinated water supplemented with treated rainwater to all households and a comprehensive sewerage system to dispose of domestic sewage and wastewater. At present rainwater tanks of 2500litres connected to household roofs are used for drinking and cooking purposes while groundwater is used for all other purposes. Sewage and wastewater at household level is disposed to the lagoon via multiple outfalls causing contamination of lagoon areas and contributing to seagrass growth while catch pits in households leak into the aquifer contaminating the groundwater. Groundwater wells are also fixed with electric pumps to draw water which has been the main reason for excessive drawdown and subsequent salinization of the freshwater lens. The small water collection facilities at household level presents water shortage issues during the dry season while contamination of the groundwater lens with wastewater effluent and salinization of the lens has become an increasingly important public health issue. Hence, it is important to provide adequate supply of potable water and provide appropriate wastewater disposal systems to minimize faecal contamination and foul smell in the groundwater. In addition, a number of alternatives to the proposed project components have been identified in this document. Some of these alternatives consider alternative means of wastewater disposal including treatment, alternative means of water supply, alternative outfall locations and alternatives to sustainable groundwater. Treatment is considered as a favourable option while it has been argued that if the effluent can be disposed of at an appropriate location, there would not be a need for treatment since there will be good mixing and flushing in such areas. It has also been recommended to use solar desalination technologies since the initial demand would be low and production capacity minimal. Environmental impacts were assessed for both the construction and operational phase of the project. Most of the environmental impacts identified for the construction phase of the project were minor negative; these include excavation and related difficulties to road uses, sedimentation from installing the outfall and temporary salinization of groundwater from de-watering to lay out the pipe network and pump stations. However, the impacts identified for the operational phase of the project were mostly moderate to major positive; improvement of groundwater quality from stopping the current sewage disposal practise and reduction of related health hazards. Disposal of sewage via a sea outfall is considered as minor negative impact while the lack of multiple lagoon outfalls will help to improve the quality of the lagoons which is a primary recreational area of the island. The provision of safe and adequate supply of potable water enhances living environment and provides economic opportunities such as tourism establishments including guest houses and city hotels. The main mitigation measures for this project during the construction phase are similar to other water and sewerage projects such as dust control plans, working during low- tide as much as possible and rigorous supervision. In case of deterioration of groundwater quality due to potential dewatering during construction of lifting stations in residential area, measures to water plants in the area that may be affected due to dewatering shall be in place. The design shall also ensure that dewatering is minimized. As for the operational phase trained maintenance staff to service the water and sewerage system and regular check-ups has been suggested in addition to monitoring water quality as well as reef health for potential impacts. Increasing awareness on groundwater conservation and promoting sustainable groundwater aquifer management, especially the skimming well technology has been suggested. In conclusion, it appears justified from a technical, administrative, socio-economic, health and an environmental point of view, to carry out the proposed water and sewerage system development project. The alternative of wastewater treatment will involve greater operational costs; therefore, it is recommended to proceed the project as proposed while keeping the option open for future wastewater treatment, as and when required.Item Environmental impact assessment for the proposed agriculture development project at Undoodhoo, Baa Atoll, Maldives(2016-08) SandcaysThis report provides the finding of an environmental impact assessment carried out for the proposed agriculture development project at Baa. Undoodhoo. The project is proposed by an Individual Mr Ibrahim Abdul Latheef. The proposed project involves producing high value agricultural products for sale in the local market. The project aims to reduce dependency of the local populace on imported fruits and vegetables by growing as many different species of fruits and vegetables on the island. The project will also provide job and training opportunities to youth and contribute to the overall development of the country. It is proposed to produce banana, Papaya, watermelon and mango on the island. An area of 9040 sq.m of land is allocated for farming. The proposed project will have several support facilities including power, water, sewerage, jetty, staff and visitor accommodation and storage facilities developed on the island since the island is remotely located. Under the project, roughly 1.3Ha of the island will be cleared towards the middle of the island. For farming and all support facilities will have a foot print of upto 10% of the total island area. Two jetties of each 60m wil be constructed on eastern and western side facing the natural channels. Services related to the project, such as staff accommodation, power, water and storage facilities will also be established on the island during the construction phase. The baseline environmental conditions were assessed using standard methods. The project areas including clearance areas and dredge areas have been studied. In addition, the island’s vegetation and shorelines were mapped. The studies indicated that the hydroponics area consisted primarily of coconut palms with other island vegetation. It has been estimated from the vegetation surveys that a total of 320 coconut palms (cocus nucifera), 38 Funa/Alexander Laurelwood (Calophyllum inophyllum), Midhili/Country almond (Terminalia catappa) , and 22 other mature trees would need to be cleared, but a lot of it can be preserved if the buildings are appropriately designed/setout. The proposed jetty area has natural channels as deep as -3m MSL. 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, direct and indirect employment opportunities, and increased business opportunities. The main negative environmental impacts of the project are identified to be the changes to the island ecosystem from clearance of vegetation and impact on the marine environment from a small degree of sedimentation due to dredging for jetty installation. Mitigation measures for the proposed project would be that clearance take place only where necessary and coconut palms are transplanted on other areas of the island or other island where the trees may be required. It is also required to plant two trees for every mature tree or coconut tree cut down. Septic tank systems have been proposed for disposing human waste and pose no long-term negative environmental impact considering the small number of people expected to be based on the island. The island has a waste management area where green waste will be composed to be used as fertilizer. The activities proposed in the project comply with environmental laws and regulations of the Maldives, including requirements of the Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture. These have been outlined in the report. Alternatives have been identified in the project document. These include alternative access facilities, sewage disposal, water production and energy generation. The “no-development” option was also analyzed in light of alternative uses of the island. However, upon analysis of the no-project option, the proposed development of the island for agricultural purpose was found to be more viable based on the present circumstances and use of the island. Considering the other potential alternative uses of the island, the lack of beach on the island does not make it most-suited for tourism development although beaches can be enhanced and a resort can be developed on the island, which would be a better option considering the revenue that it will generate and greater employment potential. The local agricultural produce in market such as those from Maafahi have been contributing to food security and availability of fresh agroproducts for a number of years. Hence, such small scale agriculture projects are becoming increasingly important for the sustainable development of the Maldives. Alternatives to water supply, wastewater disposal and electricity have also been considered. The use of groundwater for the proposed project is minimal only to non portal use of staffs as it is slightly saline and could not be used for irrigation. Wastewater treatment would have negative impacts for the proposed project in terms of use of fuel-based electricity for the treatment process. Therefore, the proposed septic tank system is considered appropriate for such a small scale operation involving a small labour force. Alternative sources of power have also been looked at and recommend the use of solar (photo-voltaic) technology to the greatest possible extent. 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 project. Yet, monitoring to ensure the effectiveness of the proposed project would be necessary especially with ground water contamination with the use of fertilizers. Therefore, a monitoring component has been suggested which takes into 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 Undoodhoo as an agricultural island. The recommended alternatives may be considered in the light of improving environmental performance of the proposed project.