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Item Environmental impact assessment : Tower C of Amin Avenue, Hulhumale’(2016-01) Zuhair, Mohamed; Shakir, IbrahimThis Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Report has been prepared for the development of Tower C, which is the third block to be developed as part of the 3 mixed-use residential and commercial complexes of Amin Avenue to be developed in Hulhumale’ by Amin Construction Pvt. Ltd.. The proposed Tower C development will be undertaken in a separate 14 storey building in the land plot N2-23 in Neighborhood 2. Upon completion of Tower C, the complex will have 72 apartments. The Ground and First Floors of the complex will be developed for commercial plots, parking lots and access ways, similar to Tower A and B. This EIA is prepared as per the Terms of Reference (TOR) approved by Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on 16 December 2015. It is a legal requirement under the Amended EIA Regulation to prepare and approve EIAs for commercial, economic and development projects enlisted in Schedule D. Environmental clearance is obtained through approval of the EIA and issuance of EIA Decision Statement from EPA. The Tower C of Amin Avenue will be developed in Neighborhood 2 of Hulhumale’ in the land plot N2-23, which is located at 4°12'49.14"N / 73°32'25.66"E. The total land area of N2- 23 is 19,779ft2. The plot is located on the southern side of the proposed park located in the central parts of Hulhumale’. In order to understand existing environmental conditions of the proposed Tower C plot, assessments have been undertaken including noise levels, traffic flow and volume, ecological and structural assessments, groundwater and soil assessments. As Tower C is located within the overall Amin Avenue development boundary, comparison of some of the data collected for the EIA for Towers A and B with EIA for Tower C has been undertaken. Similar to the previous assessments, the highest noise levels recorded were from the northern side of the land plot having 76dB and 78dB. However, readings for the same locations during the previous assessment showed 69dB and 67dB, hence there is an increase in the noise levels of the surrounding environment. This is primarily attributed to the ongoing construction works at Towers A and B as well as other nearby sites. The average noise levels recorded on the southern sides were also increased from 62dB (previous) to 66dB (new) and from 61dB (previous) to 68dB (new). The increased noise levels on the southern side were also attributed to the ongoing construction activities for the development of Towers A and B. Generally, the traffic volume was observed to have decreased from the previous survey. This is probably due to the time where the data was collected and the period in which the data was collected where it was school holidays, hence there is a general reduction in the traffic volume of the surrounding environment. However, volume of pickups and trucks has increased from 7 to 8 and from 5 to 6 in the recent survey. There is no vegetation found within the plot allocated for Tower C development. Hence, there are no issues with vegetation clearance as part of the proposed development. A soil pit was dug within the land plot allocated for Tower C development, which indicate that generally there are no soil layers. The soil profiles show that up to the water level, only reclaimed sand exists. As there is no vegetation found within the site, the topsoil also does not have any humus content. A groundwater analysis was carried out for the Tower C location from MWSC laboratories, which indicated that the groundwater found within the site contains average levels of nitrates having 20.5mg/l. Phosphate levels found were 0.05mg/l and sulphide levels were less than 5 miccrograms/l. The salinity level was only 0.44ppt. However, high levels of dissolved solids having 451mg/l and turbidity level of 4.52NTU was found in the groundwater. Also, high levels of faecal coliforms having 308CFU were found from the groundwater at the site. Currently some social housing units and flats are found within the vicinity of the project sites which are observed to be quite new and in good condition. No physical damages have been observed from these buildings. These buildings are found on the eastern side of the Tower C plot and the overall development area. Condition of the roads around the proposed project site is observed to be in good condition. No cracks or physical damages are observed on the roads. The environmental impacts that may be associated with the proposed project are predicted and assumed in the EIA Report. These environmental impacts are divided into construction phase and operation phase environmental impacts. Most of the construction phase environmental impacts are believed to occur from excavation, dewatering, construction activities, operation of construction machinery and vehicles and construction waste disposal. The main environmental impacts believed to occur during operation phase of the project include household waste and increased traffic within and around areas. As part of the proposed project, a number of mitigation measures have been proposed in the EIA Report including using corrugated sheets supported by iron beams as a safety measure for protecting the excavated area for foundation, dewatering will be undertaken in opens spaces in Hulhumale to reduce loss of ground water, while preparing the site ready for construction, measures such as installation of safety and dust protection nets, appropriate signage will be placed to make aware people on the development. Also, important mitigation measures that will be implemented include complete elimination of waste disposal during construction and operation stages of the development into the project boundaries as well as promotion of a greener lifestyle have identified important aspects of the proposed development. The overall environmental performance will be monitored by an environmental monitoring framework that will be implemented as part of the proposed development of Tower C of Amin Avenue. Although during construction of the project, negative environmental impacts from construction activities have been envisaged, with appropriate environmental management and mitigation measures, these impacts will be reduced to a considerable level. Also, with positive socio-economic outlook of the project and considering the overall importance of such a development in Hulhumale’ to alleviate housing stress, it is concluded that the project should go ahead as planned.Item Environmental impact assessment for proposed farming development project in B. Aidhoo Island(2016-11) Zuhair, Mohamed; Shakir, IbrahimMr. Mohamed Saeed of M. Snowflakes has proposed to develop a farming project on Aidhoo Island located in Baa Atoll. As part of the project, it is proposed to undertake different types of farming methods by using modern technology including setting up of a vertical farm, hydroponics farm, orchid farm and container farm. Separate plots will be developed for each farming method where lettuce, tomato, melon, chili, cucumber, bell pepper, etc are proposed to be produced. The project will be developed with all support facilities, services and infrastructure. This EIA is prepared as per the Terms of Reference (TOR) approved by Environment Protection Agency (EPA) on 19 October 2016. For such development projects, a mandatory EIA is required as per the EIA Regulations of 2012 before commencement of any activity relating to the project. The scope of this EIA is to assess the existing environmental condition of Aidhoo Island and surrounding environment, identify potential environmental impacts, propose environmental management and mitigation measures to minimize environmental impacts as well as propose an environmental monitoring plan with appropriate environmental parameters to monitor changes on a regular basis. Aidhoo Island is located at 5°11'13.73"N and 73°9'48.93"Eand is found on the eastern periphery of Baa Atoll rim in a single reef system. The island is found on the western parts of the reef in an elliptical shape similar to the reef and has an orientation from E-W. The closest inhabited island is Dhonfanu located at 4.2km west, the closest tourist resort is Kihaad Maldives located at 3km west and the closes uninhabited island is Hanifaru Island found within Hanifaru Marine Protected Area located at 1.5km SW of Aidhoo. The Domestic Airport in Dhravandhoo is found 4.5km south. The island is about 280m long from the longest point and 115m wide from the widest point and has an approximate area of 2.3ha. The island has healthy vegetation in the middle parts and young and pioneering vegetation all around it. A dynamic sand spit is found on the western tip of the island while surf breaks are found on the eastern side of the island. During the construction period, key environmental impacts are believed to occur from site clearing and construction waste disposal. During operation a number of significant environmental impacts have also been envisaged including solid waste disposal and inappropriate methods of wastewater disposal from the island will generate long-term impacts on the environment including effects on island environment, changes in reef community structure, damage to coral reefs and degraded seawater quality, etc The socio-economic impacts of the proposed development have been identified to be mostly positive. These include, opening of new employment opportunities, contribution to improving living standards of nearby communities through direct and indirect economic benefits, development of skills as well as contribution to the local economy from the above. In order to mitigate and reduce environmental impacts from the proposed project, key considerations have been given to minimize vegetation clearance on island for facilities and farming development, development of an appropriate waste management center with equipment and staff. An Environmental Monitoring Plan, which will be implemented during construction and operation phases of the development will be undertaken. An environmental monitoring report will be prepared twice a year, which will be submitted to relevant government authorities. Although there are a number of environmental impacts from the proposed development, most of these impacts can be reduced and mitigated by use of appropriate methodology. The effectiveness of these methodologies can be documented by implementing a comprehensive monitoring programme. Also, with positive social and economic outlook of the project and considering the overall contribution of the project to local and national economies, it is concluded that the project could be undertaken.Item Environmental impact assessment for the proposed 10-storey mixed use residential complex in Block D10-4C, Hulhumale’(2016-12) Zuhair, Mohamed; Shakir, IbrahimBatch Construction Pvt. Ltd. proposes to develop a 10-storey mixed-use residential and commercial complex in Block D10-4C in Hulumale. The Block is located on Fithuroanu Magu on the western side of Hulhumale’. The total area of the plot is 14,767ft2. With a setback, the total building footprint area will be 11,357ft2. Hence, a total of 3,410ft2 will be left as open space within the plot. Upon completion of the proposed project, the complex will have 2 – 3 bedroom 69 residential apartments (Second Floor to Ninth Floor). The Ground Floor and First Floors of the complex will be developed as commercial, parking and access ways. This EIA is prepared as per the Terms of Reference (TOR) approved by Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on 24 November 2016. It is a legal requirement under the Amended EIA Regulation to prepare and approve EIAs for commercial, economic and development projects enlisted in Schedule D. Environmental clearance is obtained through approval of the EIA and issuance of EIA Decision Statement from EPA. Block D10-4C is located at 4°12'49.17"N / 73°32'14.18"E on the western side of Hulhumale’ on Fithroanu Magu. In order to understand existing environmental conditions of Block D10-4C, assessments have been undertaken including noise levels, traffic flow and volume, ecological and structural assessments, and groundwater.. The highest noise level was recorded at Site 2 close to the project site having 58dB. This is because of the Customs Area located in front of the plot where a number of vehicles have been observed by the area. Noise levels at Site 1 and Site 3 were 56dB and 49dB respectively along Fithuroanu Magu. The least noise level was recorded at Site 4 behind the project plot having 44dB. Fithuroanu Magu is a main road found along the western side of Hulhumale’ that connects to the main ferry terminal. Two-way traffic flow by the project site has been observed. The highest traffic along the road recorded was from motorcycles having 34 during the hourly period. The road is also a regular bus route and around 8 bus trips were recorded during the same hour. There is no vegetation found inside the project boundary. However, some mature vegetation primarily consisting of Beefwood (Grevillea spp), which has been planted along the roadside are found. These plants are outside of the proposed plot, hence, there is no requirement for removing these vegetation. There are no existing building adjacent to the project area. Condition of the roads around the proposed project site is observed to be in good condition. No cracks or physical damages are observed on the roads. The environmental impacts that may be associated with the proposed project are predicted and assumed in the EIA Report. These environmental impacts are divided into construction phase and operation phase environmental impacts. Most of the construction phase environmental impacts are believed to occur from excavation, dewatering, construction activities, operation of construction machinery and vehicles and construction waste disposal. The main environmental impacts believed to occur during operation phase of the project include household waste and increased traffic within and around areas. As part of the proposed project, a number of mitigation measures have been proposed in the EIA Report including using corrugated sheets supported by iron beams as a safety measure for protecting the excavated area for foundation, dewatering will be undertaken in opens spaces in Hulhumale to reduce loss of ground water, while preparing the site ready for construction, measures such as installation of safety and dust protection nets, appropriate signage will be placed to make aware people on the development. Also, important mitigation measures that will be implemented include complete elimination of waste disposal during construction and operation stages of the development into the project boundaries as well as promotion of a greener lifestyle have identified important aspects of the proposed development. The overall environmental performance will be monitored by an environmental monitoring framework that will be implemented as part of the proposed development of the mixed use residential complex. Although during construction of the project, negative environmental impacts from construction activities have been envisaged, with appropriate environmental management and mitigation measures, these impacts will be reduced to a considerable level. Also, with positive socio-economic outlook of the project and considering the overall importance of such a development in Hulhumale’ to alleviate housing stress, it is concluded that the project should go ahead as planned.Item Environmental impact assessment for the proposed 20-storey Rehendhi 5 building, Male’(2016-10) Zuhair, Mohamed; Shakir, IbrahimThe project is proposed by AMIN Construction Pvt. Ltd. on contractor-finance basis to develop a 20-storey Rehendhi 5 building primarily for mixed use commercial and residential purpose with a basement car part and commercial podiums on ground and first floors, a total of 85 apartments from 2nd floor to 18th floor. Each floor will have 2 – 3 bedroom 5 units. A rooftop for outdoor uses will be developed at the top level of the building. The building will occupy 687m2. The building is proposed to be developed in Block 363. The EIA has been prepared as per the EIA Regulations 2012 developed directly under the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act and identifies that development of such buildings exceeding 31m in height and with basements or over 10 storeys with greater than 5ft foundation require an EIA to be undertaken and approved by EPA before commencement of construction. In order to understand existing environmental conditions of the proposed project area, assessments have been undertaken including ambient noise levels, traffic volume and movement, groundwater quality, vegetation, physical condition of the surrounding buildings and roads were undertaken. The highest noise levels recorded were from Ameenee Magu, northern side of the proposed project area having 55dB and 56dB. The existing traffic flow is around the Block 363 with heavy traffic on Ameenee Magu. The highest traffic recorded was from motorcycle having an hourly flow of 102 motorcycles. There is no vegetation present in the proposed plot. The area is currently used for parking damaged vehicles and a car park. The adjacent buildings by the proposed plot include Rehendhi 1, Rehendhi 2, Rehendhi 3 and Rehendhi 6. Of these buildings, Rehendhi 1 and Rehendhi 2 now have residents and Rehendhi 3 has been recently completed and Rehendhi 6 is under construction. Other notable buildings in close proximity to the project area include, the Male’ Square, 3 storey block in Imaaduddin School and TVM building (single storey). Of these buildings, some minor cracks are observed on TVM building in the corner. No major physical damages of are observed in these buildings located in the vicinity of the project site. There are no significant environmental impacts from the proposed project, however, some of the environmental impacts from development activities such as dewatering, construction activities, operation of construction machinery, construction waste generating environmental impacts such as noise, dust and pollution are believed to occur. Social impacts such as traffic congestion, disturbance to nearby school operation have been predicted. During operation period of the project, household waste and traffic are believed to increase. As part of the proposed project, a number of mitigation measures have been proposed in the EIA Report including using corrugated sheets supported by iron beams as a safety measure for protecting the excavated area for foundation, dewatering will be undertaken upon approval from EPA, while preparing the site ready for construction, measures such as installation of safety and dust protection nets, appropriate signage will be placed to make aware people on the development. Also, important mitigation measures that will be implemented include complete elimination of waste disposal during construction and operation stages of the development into the project boundaries. Although during construction of the project, negative environmental impacts from construction activities have been envisaged, with appropriate environmental management and mitigation measures, these impacts will be reduced to a considerable level. Also, with positive socioeconomic outlook of the project and considering the overall importance of housing in Male’, it is concluded that the project is an important development.Item Environmental impact assessment for the proposed development of 10-storey building with basement at H. Loveside, Male’(2016-12) Zuhair, Mohamed; Shakir, IbrahimWestore Pvt. Ltd. proposes to develop a 10-Storey Building with Basement at H. Loveside found on Abadahfehi Magu, Male’ for both commercial and residential use. The total area of the plot is 230.38sqm and proposed builtup area is 220.45sqm. 9.93sqm will be left as open space. Once completed, the basement area will have a car park with storage area, the ground and first floors will have commercial areas for shops and offices and around 20 residential units (comprising of 2 bedroom, 3 bedroom and 4 bedroom) from second to ninth floors. At the top level there will be a roof terrace. The site will be excavated to a depth of 2.7m to lay the foundations and develop the basement area where the depth of the foundation will be 1.05m and the basement floor level will be 1.65m. The ground level will be raised to a height of 1.2m, hence the final floor height of the basement will be 2.85m. The entire boundary will be shored with corrugated sheets or concrete walls supported by iron beams as a safety measure while preparing the site ready for construction. The EIA has been prepared as per the EIA Regulations 2012 developed directly under the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act and identifies that development of such buildings with basements or over 10 storeys with greater than 5ft foundation require an EIA to be undertaken and approved by EPA before commencement of construction. In order to understand existing environmental conditions of the proposed project area, assessments have been undertaken including ambient noise levels, traffic volume and movement, groundwater quality, vegetation, physical condition of the surrounding buildings and roads were undertaken. The highest noise level recorded was at Site 1 having 55dB and the lowest noise level recorded was at Site 3 having 45dB. The main reason for high noise level is because the site was located close another road where there are combined traffic movement from Violet Goalhi east to west and from Abadhafehi Magu from south to north. The traffic flow was observed to be from south to north by the project site. The traffic volume near project site has some variations between day and night. It was observed that motorcycle volume increased at night while all other types of vehicles such as cars, pickups and bicycles decreased. However, during the day, motorcycles were slightly decreased on other types of vehicles were increased. There is no vegetation present in the proposed plot. There is only 1 building with 3 storeys on the adjacent of the proposed site, which is found at the back of the proposed plot. All other buildings are single storey. Only the building found on the south is used as godown for Fantasy Supermarket. All other buildings including the 3 storey building are used for residential purpose. There are no significant environmental impacts from the proposed project, however, some of the environmental impacts from development activities such as dewatering, construction activities, operation of construction machinery, construction waste generating environmental impacts such as noise, dust and pollution are believed to occur. Social impacts such as traffic congestion, disturbance to nearby school operation have been predicted. During operation period of the project, household waste and traffic are believed to increase. As part of the proposed project, a number of mitigation measures have been proposed in the EIA Report including using corrugated sheets supported by iron beams as a safety measure for protecting the excavated area for foundation, dewatering will be undertaken upon approval from EPA, while preparing the site ready for construction, measures such as installation of safety and dust protection nets, appropriate signage will be placed to make aware people on the development. Also, important mitigation measures that will be implemented include complete elimination of waste disposal during construction and operation stages of the development into the project boundaries. Although during construction of the project, negative environmental impacts from construction activities have been envisaged, with appropriate environmental management and mitigation measures, these impacts will be reduced to a considerable level. Also, with positive socio-economic outlook of the project and considering the overall importance of housing in Male’, it is concluded that the project is an important development.