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Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment report development of 100 bed hospital at Addu City
(2017-10) Land and Marine Environmental Resources Group
1.1 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.
Technical Report
First addendum: K. Villimale environment impact assessment to Villimale' west harbour construction project, Kaafu Atoll, Maldives
(2017-10) Hussain, Firdous
This 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.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment report agricultural development project at Hulhidhoo, Vaavu Atoll
(2017-11) Land and Marine Environmental Resources Group
1.1 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.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for sheet piling in Hawks Land Thilafushi, Male Atoll
(2017-11) Wahhab, Mahfooz Abdull; Jaleel, Mohamed Ibrahim
This report discusses the findings of the environmental impact assessment undertaken for the development of a new jetty by Hawks Corporation at Thilafushi. This EIA report is prepared in accordance with Environmental Impact Assessment Regulation 2012 and the subsequent amendments to the regulation. The Hawks Pvt. Ltd. (Proponent) Site (S4-027) located in the Industrial Island (Thilafushi) is positioned alongside the edge of the island facing the sea with a jetty of approximate width of 3m. Due to major problems the proponent faces due to the current jetty, a new jetty design has been proposed which would overcome these disadvantages, and benefit both Thilafushi Corporation Limited and proponent. Therefore, in order to overcome the aforementioned challenges, the proponent has proposed to carry out the project to the project to construct the new jetty. The major activities of the project include; dresdging and recalamation, sheet piling works and concrete works. The major impacts of the construction phase is envisaged to be impacts on air quality, noise pollution, vibration and disturbances due to operation of heavy machinery, impact on marine environment from turbidity, waste and chemical spillages. The main impact of operational phase is predicted to arise from the operation of the petrol shed on the newly constructed jetty. The mitigation measures proposed for the construction phase comprises of commencing the dredging and reclamation works slowly in order to give chance to mobile organism to escape, proper maintenance of machinery, restricting the movement of barges, adhering to proper waste management plans and procedures etc. The mitigations of the operational phase include regular maintenance of machinery, following proper oil/chemical handling procedures and staff training on emergency oil spill cleanup. An environmental monitoring plan was developed taking into consideration the impacts and mitigation measures to be implemented. The monitoring plan includes assessing the marine water quality, coastline and marine biodiversity. As every development project, there are envisaged negative environmental impacts due to the proposed project. However these could be reduced by establishing the mitigation measures and proper environmental monitoring. Therefore, considering the greater socioeconomic positive outcome of the project it is justifiable to carry out the works of the proposed project
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for the proposed shore protection and beach nourishment at Maafushi Island, South Male’ Atoll, Maldives
(2015-12) Water Solutions
This report discusses the findings of a social and environmental impact study undertaken by Water Solutions Pvt. Ltd. upon request from Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC). MTCC has been awarded the project by Ministry of Environment and Energy. The project involves shore or coastal protection works and beach nourishment of the northern side of Maafushi island, South Male’ Atoll. The project aims to:  Protect the north side from erosion, by nourishing the beach with sand.  Increase the available beach space in Maafushi island on the north side.  Construct a set of groynes to retain the sand.  Ensure that a sustainable beach is available on the north side while at the same time protecting the island’s shore from erosion. One of the biggest development challenges facing Maafushi today is the lack of recreational space, most importantly a beach for locals as well as hundreds of tourists visiting the island every month. With the increase in guest houses, the demand for beach space has never been this high and it is now in competition with locals who also utilizes the same space for recreational purpose. Due to the limited availability of beach, the northern side of Maafushi has been declared by the Island Council as a designated area for guest, where they can enjoy swimming in bikinis and swimming cloths. Thus the importance of segregation from locals is emphasized due to this factor. The northern side of the island has been in a state of erosion for many years and no proper erosion management has been undertaken to rectify this problem. The result of this lack of management from the concerned authorities is the use of ad hoc and inappropriate erosion management measures that does not work as intended. Such measures include protecting the beach using coral rubbles, cement bags and even construction waste such as demolition debris. These measures have helped to control further damage in some manner, but the erosion has not been controlled at all. The beaches are laden with debris and the visual beauty of an island’s shore is no more. Nevertheless, most of the guests are compelled to use this area for relaxing, sunbathing and swimming. It has now become one of the most economically active and important area of the island, yet the most neglected and ugly. Some of the structures such as the government institution, “Residential School for Minors” has been affected. Most area of the boundary wall has been partly collapsed from erosion, which shows no signs of improvement. The present population of the island is roughly 3500 and there are 248 households. The development of guest houses in the island has increased the burden on the available beach space for recreation. The northern part of the island has been allocated as recreational space for guests as this area can be easily segregated from the main population. However, beach erosion on this side is affecting guest house businesses and will continue to pressure if a solution is not found. With limited recreational space, at present, there is a lot of mix of both locals and foreigners. Presently, the only beach area that is available for the islanders is very small as most of the beach areas have been allocated for guest recreation. Managing and controlling erosion on the north side is therefore not only an environmental issue, but a major social and economic issue as well. The success of this project will not only help prevent an environmental problem, but also safeguard an industry that has become one of the most significant for the local economy. Further damage from erosion is something that the community will pay dearly if a solution is not brought. Environmental impacts of this project was assessed and most of the environmental impacts of the project have been identified as resulting from the dredging and beach nourishment works. Dredging will be undertaken using excavators and this is particularly a method that creates lot of sedimentation. Such beach nourishment projects contributes to significant amount of sedimentation and it is the biggest threat to the marine environment. Dredging has been proposed from the northern side of the island Mitigation measures for the negative impacts have been identified and outlined in detail, and sedimentation control methods have been specifically focused due to its seriousness. The most important mitigation measure is the use of bund walls in the dredging and fill areas to contain sedimentation of the remainder of the reef or at least minimize it significantly. In addition, completing the dredging and beach nourishment works in the shortest time frame is also a significant mitigation measure that can help avoid serious and prolonged reef damage. The proposed mitigation measures will have to be followed in order to minimize environmental damage. The measures proposed to minimize or mitigate environmental impacts may be considered to be quite appropriate, thereby minimizing the impact by about 90%. The main negative environmental impact 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 these areas and hence, their population will drop in areas affected by sedimentation. Not only will this be an environmental issue, but will also affect the hundreds of tourists that use the house reef for snorkelling, diving and water sports. Snorkelling and diving is a sport that particularly depends on good visibility and high sedimentation rates can spread sediments to large areas. The project is mainly driven by the environmental and economic gain for the development of Maafushi island. Stakeholder consultations were held with various groups, including the island council and the client in order to incorporate the socio-economic components in the project. Stakeholders, most importantly the island community represented by the Island council was the most significant as they have the maximum knowledge and experience from the daily difficulties faced and issues of the island. On a daily basis, the council receives request / complains from the general public on various issues and these have been incorporated in the report. In addition, the business community, most notably members representing the Maafushi guest houses were met and discussions were held with them about the project, dredging methods using excavators, beach nourishment methods and the best possible type and methods for costal protection. It is inevitable that there would be negative environmental impacts of this project. However, balancing these negative impacts and the socio-economic benefits gained is something that is very difficult. It will not be possible to avoid environmental damage entirely, but ways to minimize damage are critical factors to consider during implementation. As a result, a comprehensive mitigation and monitoring component has been suggested which takes into consideration, the most important elements that require monitoring, most importantly a mechanism and means to measure and value the social benefit of the project. This monitoring component will be adhered and will allow the assessment of long term changes, despite the potential negative impacts. As the socioeconomic impacts are going to be felt in the long term, monitoring these changes is very essential. The beach nourishment and coastal protection of Maafushi’s north side does pose some threats to the marine environment. There will be direct and indirect damage to corals in the vicinity of the project site. Some of the corals, mostly in the lagoon and shallow areas of the reef slope will die due to smothering as well as from construction activities. But these are damages that cannot be entirely avoided. The damage rate and percentage can be reduced by limiting the dredging area to one single location as identified in the project.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment harbor construction works at Maduvvaree, Raa Atoll
(2015-12) Land and Marine Environmental Resources Group
Background The non-technical summary outlines the findings of the Environmental Impact Assessment of the proposed harbor construction at R. Maduvvaree. The proponent of the proposed project is Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure. The total estimated cost of this project is USD 1.45 million. The proposed project involves construction of the harbor facility on the southern side of R. Maduvvaree. The harbor will have dimensions of length 211m and maximum width of 86m. The entrance will be from the existing entrance on the south eastern end of the facility. Key impacts, mitigation measures and alternatives Impacts on the environment from various activities of the construction work and during the operation of the facility 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 development projects. Mitigation measures have also been identified for impacts which are irreversible in nature. Impact analysis was done using the Leopold matrix. Impact analysis showed that impact due to the project was due to dredging works which is anticipated to have a moderate impact on marine habitats as a result of sedimentation. Positive impact foreseen is availability of safe harbor for the fishing fleet of the island and additional of land area. Other minor to moderate impacts are discussed in section 9 of the report. Mitigation measures are discussed in the report for potential impacts, including mitigation for the event that the project might be stopped prior to the completion of all works. In such cases, it is advised to ensure that the mitigation measures outlined for this scenario in Table 9 are implemented prior to the departure of contractors. Detailed mitigation measures are discussed in Section 11 of the report. Alternatives have been considered for various components of the project and are given as possible options that may be either more practical or less expensive to the preferred options. The proposed alternatives also have taken into consideration the environmental consequences resulting from these options as compared to the preferred options. The following components of the project have been discussed in providing their alternatives;  Equipment/method used for dredging  Location of harbor The “do-nothing” option or no project scenario would mean that the large fishing vessel fleet of island would face the same existing difficulty of not having appropriate berthing and safe harbor. However, the no-project scenario also means that the environmental impacts due to the project, which are moderate in terms of the impact on live coral cover and marine habitats, will be completely avoided. The existing facility is in need of repair; the outer breakwaters are damaged and does not properly stop waves during NE monsoon. Hence the community feels that southern area is adequate for a harbor, furthermore the area is already dredged therefore cost for construction will also be lower. Therefore given that the benefits of construction of the facility are more significant than the environmental impacts, continuation of the project is considered feasible with proper implementation of the mitigation measures proposed to minimize the impact on the environment. Details of the various alternatives considered and the selected alternatives are shown in Section 10 of the report.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for the proposed shore protection measures at Maafushi Island, South Male’ Atoll, Maldives
(2015-11) Water Solutions
This report discusses the findings of a social and environmental impact study undertaken by Water Solutions Pvt. Ltd. upon request from Maldives transport and Contracting Company (MTCC). MTCC has been awarded the project by Ministry of Environment and Energy. The project includes beach nourishment and construction of shore protection measures on the northern tip of the island of Maafushi. The project involves shore protection works and beach nourishment of the northern side of Maafushi island, South Male’ Atoll. The project aims to:  Protect the north side from erosion, by nourishment with sand.  Increase the available beach space in Maafushi island on the north side.  Construct a set of groynes to retain the sand. One of the biggest development challenge facing Maafushi is lack of recreational space. With the increase in guest houses, the demand for beach space has never been this high and it is now in competition with locals who also utilizes the same space for recreational purpose. The present population of the island is roughly 3500 and there are 248 households. The development of guest houses in the island has increased the burden on the available beach space for recreation. The northern part of the island has been allocated as recreational space for guests as this area can be easily segregated from the main population. However, beach erosion on this side is affecting guest house businesses and will continue to pressure if a solution is not found. With limited recreational space, at present, there is a lot of mix of both locals and foreigners. Presently, the only beach area that is available for the islanders is very small as most of the beach areas have been allocated for guest recreation. Environmental impacts were assessed and most of the environmental impacts of the project have been identified as resulting from the dredging and beach nourishment works. Dredging and beach nourishment projects constitute significant amount of sedimentation and it is the biggest threat to the marine environment. Mitigation measures for the negative impacts have been identified and outlined in detail, and sedimentation control methods have been specifically focused due to its seriousness. The most important mitigation measure is the use of bund walls in the fill areas to contain sedimentation of the remainder of the reef or at least minimize it significantly. In addition, completing the filling works in the shortest time frame is a significant mitigation measure that can help avoid serious and prolonged reef damage. The proposed mitigation measures will have to be followed in order to minimize environmental damage. The measures proposed to minimize or mitigate environmental impacts may be considered to be quite appropriate, thereby minimizing the impact by about 90%. The main negative environmental impact 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 these areas and hence, their population will drop in areas affected by sedimentation. The project is mainly driven by the environmental and economic gain for the development of Maafushi island. Stakeholder consultations were held with various groups, including the island council and the client in order to incorporate the socio-economic components in the project. Stakeholders, most importantly the island community represented by the Island council was the most significant as they have the maximum knowledge and experience from the daily difficulties faced and issues of the island. On a daily basis, the council receives request / complains from the general public on various issues and these have been incorporated in the report. In addition, the business community, most notably members representing the Maafushi guest houses were met and discussions were held with them about the project, nourishment methods and the best possible type and methods for costal protection. It is inevitable that there would be negative environmental impacts of this project. However, balancing these negative impacts and the socio-economic benefits gained is something that is very difficult. As a result, a comprehensive monitoring component has been suggested which takes into consideration, the most important elements that require monitoring, most importantly a mechanism and means to measure and value the social benefit of the project. This monitoring component will be adhered and will allow the assessment of long term changes, despite the potential negative impacts. As the socioeconomic impacts are going to be felt in the long term, monitoring these changes is very essential. The beach nourishment and coastal protection of Maafushi does pose some threats to the marine environment. There will be direct and indirect damage to corals in the vicinity of the project site. Nevertheless, this project will benefit the community significantly.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for the construction of a harbour in Gaafaru Island, North Male’ Atoll, Maldives
(2015-11) Water Solutions
This report discusses the findings of a social and environmental impact study undertaken by Water Solutions Pvt. Ltd. upon request from Ministry of Housing and infrastructure. The project involves construction of a harbour in the island of Gaafaru in, North Male’ Atoll. The harbour project in Gaafaru is slightly different from the conventional harbours developed elsewhere in Maldives. Gaafaru island already has a harbour constructed to ease the difficulties faced due to difficulty in accessing the island. However, over time, this harbour has been damaged and the need to accommodate more and larger vessels has been realized since its construction. The present harbour is presently in need of upgrading and enlargement. As the only practical options for expansion is possible towards the north-west side (for reasons outlined later in the report), it has been decided to move the harbour basin further west. As a result, it has been decided to fill the existing harbour basin and dredge a new basin further west. The quay walls and the breakwaters will then be constructed for the new harbour basin. The present harbour basin will thus become part of the island. The proposed project is therefore geared towards developing a third generation harbour in the island. The present basin will be filled to move the quay wall further west in the shallow lagoon. This project will therefore have a reclamation component to increase land area of the island in addition to the harbour development. This harbour is expected to ease many of the challenges faced by the islanders, especially for the vessel owners, as safe mooring will be guaranteed. Presently, the damaged harbour is causing lot of difficulties for vessel owners. A detail environmental and social assessment was undertaken for this project and the findings are reported in this EIA. This EIA has been prepared to assess the social and environmental impacts of this project. Although this is not a completely new development, significant negative impacts on the marine environment will be felt through permanent habited modification and direct destruction of the marine environment. Similarly, the coral reef will be directly and indirectly impacted from this project. At the same time, the socio-economic impacts of the project will be significantly felt on a very larger group, and not necessarily the islanders only. In such projects, environmental damage cannot be avoided and hence the goal should be to undertake the works in the most least damaging manner. As a large area of the marine environment will be affected, careful implementation of mitigation measures and adopting methods which minimizes damage will be key for this project. Most of these measures are best practice guidelines and protocols that does not require a lot of money to implement. In view of the assessment, the environmental damages to marine resources have been considered significant due to the nature of the project. The impacts are likely to be felt on an estimated 14% of the reef, mostly along the inner basin of Gaafaru atoll. These environmental impacts were assessed for both construction and operation phase of the project and the majority of the negative impacts will be felt during the construction stage. However significant these negative impacts are, they should be compared and assessed with the socioeconomic benefits gained by developing the harbour. As a result, a comprehensive monitoring component has been suggested which takes in to consideration, the most important elements that require regular monitoring such as the changes to the sediment movement around the island. This monitoring component will be adhered and will allow the assessment of long term changes resulting from the project. One of the important monitoring aspects will be the socioeconomic impacts. Stakeholder consultations were held with various groups, including the island council and the client in order to incorporate the socio-economic components in the project. Stakeholders, most importantly the island community represented by the Island council was the most significant as they have the maximum knowledge and experience from the daily difficulties faced due to lack of a harbour. Apart from this, the council receives complains from boat owners and others on a daily basis with regard to this. The development of the harbour in Gaafaru will have significant negative environmental impacts to the island environment, most of which will be felt on the marine environment. The project takes place in an environment that has been modified or damaged. Nevertheless, environmental impacts are going to be major. However, the social impacts of this project will be significant and will benefit the community as well as other the region. The additional land acquired for the island and how useful it is in the long term is questionable as experience from other projects in the Maldives have shown. Hence, the land use plan of the island must be carefully developed in order to ensure that the land acquired will be useful for generations to come.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment swimming area development at Bodufolhudhoo, AA Atoll
(2015-11) Land and Marine Environmental Resources Group
1 Non-technical Summary Background The non-technical summary outlines the findings of the Environmental Impact Assessment of the proposed swimming area development in AA Bodufolhudhoo. The proponent of the proposed project is Bodufolhudhoo Island Council. The total estimated cost of this project is MVR 200,000.00. The proposed project involves dredging the sea grass meadow at the south eastern side of Bodufolhudhoo and creation of a recreational beach and swimming area for community use. Key impacts, mitigation measures and alternatives Impacts on the environment from various activities of the construction work and during the operation have been identified through interviews with the island council, field data collection and surveys and are also based on past experience of consultant in similar development projects. Possible impacts arising from the project are categorized into reversible and irreversible impacts. The impacts identified are also described according to their location, extent and characteristics. Mitigation measures have also been identified for impacts which are irreversible in nature. In any development project major direct impacts to the environment (either short-term or long-term) occur mainly during the construction phase, while some impacts are inevitable during the operation stage. Impact analysis was done using the Leopold matrix. Impact analysis showed that the project is envisaged to have minor impacts on the environment due to dredging works at the proposed swimming area (sea grass meadow). Positive impacts due to the project are anticipated to be few, including availability of recreational beach and swimming area for the community and guest operations at the island. Other positive impacts include potential indirect income opportunities in the future through the development of guest house industry. Other impacts are discussed in Section 9 of the report. Mitigation measures are discussed in the report for potential impacts, including the reclamation of a sand bund at the outer perimeter of the swimming area to reduce extent of sediment plume. Detailed mitigation measures are discussed in Section 11 of the report. Alternatives have been considered for various components of the project and are given as possible options that may be either more practical or less expensive to the preferred options. The proposed alternatives also have taken into consideration the environmental consequences esulting from these options as compared to the preferred options. The following components of the project have been discussed in providing their alternatives; 􀀁 Equipment/method used for dredging 􀀁 Location of swimming area 􀀁 Location of dredged material disposal areaThe no-project scenario is also considered, which would mean that all environmental impacts due to the project, which is minor in terms of the impact on live coral cover and marine habitats would no longer be an issue. Given the minor environmental impacts, positive impacts outweigh the negative in terms of positive social impacts. Hence discontinuation of project is not seen to be feasible. Details of the various alternatives considered and the selected alternatives are shown in Section 10 of the report. The consultant feels that the project with its minimal impact on the environment is feasible and can be continued with the implementation of proper mitigation measures as outlined in the report.
Technical Report
Environmental impact assessment for the construction of a harbour in Gaafaru Island, North Male’ Atoll, Maldives
(2015-11) Water Solutions
This report discusses the findings of a social and environmental impact study undertaken by Water Solutions Pvt. Ltd. upon request from Ministry of Housing and infrastructure. The project involves construction of a harbour in the island of Gaafaru in, North Male’ Atoll. The harbour project in Gaafaru is slightly different from the conventional harbours developed elsewhere in Maldives. Gaafaru island already has a harbour constructed to ease the difficulties faced due to difficulty in accessing the island. However, over time, this harbour has been damaged and the need to accommodate more and larger vessels has been realized since its construction. The present harbour is presently in need of upgrading and enlargement. As the only practical options for expansion is possible towards the north-west side (for reasons outlined later in the report), it has been decided to move the harbour basin further west. As a result, it has been decided to fill the existing harbour basin and dredge a new basin further west. The quay walls and the breakwaters will then be constructed for the new harbour basin. The present harbour basin will thus become part of the island. The proposed project is therefore geared towards developing a third generation harbour in the island. The present basin will be filled to move the quay wall further west in the shallow lagoon. This project will therefore have a reclamation component to increase land area of the island in addition to the harbour development. This harbour is expected to ease many of the challenges faced by the islanders, especially for the vessel owners, as safe mooring will be guaranteed. Presently, the damaged harbour is causing lot of difficulties for vessel owners. A detail environmental and social assessment was undertaken for this project and the findings are reported in this EIA. This EIA has been prepared to assess the social and environmental impacts of this project. Although this is not a completely new development, significant negative impacts on the marine environment will be felt through permanent habited modification and direct destruction of the marine environment. Similarly, the coral reef will be directly and indirectly impacted from this project. At the same time, the socio-economic impacts of the project will be significantly felt on a very larger group, and not necessarily the islanders only. In such projects, environmental damage cannot be avoided and hence the goal should be to undertake the works in the most least damaging manner. As a large area of the marine environment will be affected, careful implementation of mitigation measures and adopting methods which minimizes damage will be key for this project. Most of these measures are best practice guidelines and protocols that does not require a lot of money to implement. In view of the assessment, the environmental damages to marine resources have been considered significant due to the nature of the project. The impacts are likely to be felt on an estimated 14% of the reef, mostly along the inner basin of Gaafaru atoll. These environmental impacts were assessed for both construction and operation phase of the project and the majority of the negative impacts will be felt during the construction stage. However significant these negative impacts are, they should be compared and assessed with the socioeconomic benefits gained by developing the harbour. As a result, a comprehensive monitoring component has been suggested which takes in to consideration, the most important elements that require regular monitoring such as the changes to the sediment movement around the island. This monitoring component will be adhered and will allow the assessment of long term changes resulting from the project. One of the important monitoring aspects will be the socioeconomic impacts. Stakeholder consultations were held with various groups, including the island council and the client in order to incorporate the socio-economic components in the project. Stakeholders, most importantly the island community represented by the Island council was the most significant as they have the maximum knowledge and experience from the daily difficulties faced due to lack of a harbour. Apart from this, the council receives complains from boat owners and others on a daily basis with regard to this. The development of the harbour in Gaafaru will have significant negative environmental impacts to the island environment, most of which will be felt on the marine environment. The project takes place in an environment that has been modified or damaged. Nevertheless, environmental impacts are going to be major. However, the social impacts of this project will be significant and will benefit the community as well as other the region. The additional land acquired for the island and how useful it is in the long term is questionable as experience from other projects in the Maldives have shown. Hence, the land use plan of the island must be carefully developed in order to ensure that the land acquired will be useful for generations to come.

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