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Item Addendum 1 for environmental impact assessment of Hulhule-Hulhumale connecting link road development project in North Male‟, Atoll(2017-09) Water SolutionsThis report discusses the findings for the first addendum of the environmental impact assessment undertaken by Water Solutions Pvt. Ltd for undertaking the construction of the link road project between Hulhule-Hulhumale.. The project is proposed by Housing Development Corporation (HDC). The island of Hulhumale has been an important growth centre since its development. Presently, Hulhumale is the fastest growing urban centre and has residential as well as industrial developments to a scale that has never been experienced anywhere in the Maldives. Being close to Male‟ and the airport, Hulhumale has been attracting migrants from all over the Maldives. Construction of the Male‟ to Hulhule Bridge is presently the biggest infrastructure project of its kind under construction in Maldives. This project is very much tied with the present link road as this link road will provide direct connection of Hullhumale and the bridge, ultimately making the traffic flow from Hulhumale to Male‟. This road will be constructed on the east side of the existing land mass of Hulhule airport by reclaiming a small area further west of the existing island. The proposed road will consists of three zones. The details of the link road project is given in the Environmental Impact Assessment Report which is prepared by Water Solutions in August 2017 and the reason for the preparation of this first addendum report is due the change in location of sand burrow areas. In the Environmental Impact Assessment Report it was said that the sand will be obtained from the Hulhumale‟ phase 2, phase 1 and Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL). However now that idea has been dropped out and it is now planned to obtain sand from the eastern side of Uthuru Thila Falhu and the bathymetry shows the depth varies between 40 to 60 meters approximately. The details of the geographic coordinates are given in the section project descriptions and Study Area. This lagoon has been used as a sand burrow area for previous similar projects and is estimated to dredge 410,000 cubic meters of sand from this location. The dredging project is subcontracted to the Dredging International (Cyprus) and it is estimated to complete the project in five to seven days. Environmental impacts were assessed and most of the environmental impacts of the project have been identified as resulting mainly from the coral reef damage caused by reclamation of additional land. Mitigation measures for the negative impacts have been identified and outlined in detail, especially sedimentation control methods. The most important mitigation measure is the use of bund walls in the fill areas. This EIA addendum was undertaken to assess the environmental impacts of the proposed dredging and reclamation to acquire more land for the link road construction project. Based on the assessment, it has been identified that the major impacts of the project will be felt on the marine environment during the dredging and discharging of sand. This EIA addendum report also highlights some of the studies and research work undertaken in similar environments, especially in Male‟، to understand the impacts of reclamation and construction works close to reef slope and how this knowledge can be transferred to similar environments based on the type of coastal protection methods in use. The mitigation measures are provided in the report with alternatives. It is vital to conduct the activities, during both project planning and construction phase, in line with mitigation measures emphasized in the report. Socio-economic impacts of the proposed project will be immense as direct land connection of Male‟ and Hulhumale would bring significant benefits to the general public. Connection of Hulhumale, Male‟ and the airport is a vital transportation link that would save time and money for more than 200,000 people residing in the greater Male‟ region. The environmental impacts of various projects that are currently being undertaken in the airport region have caused significant damage to reef in various areas. This project will also have its impacts, but the impacts will not be anything greater than to what the environment has already been subjected to. Therefore a comprehensive monitoring programme has been suggested which covers components of coastal and marine environment to assess how the critical components of this project will affect the environment and to what extent. It is important to follow this monitoring programme not only to comply with the regulation but also to ensure that the impacts are measures in realistic terms. Though some of the components of this project contravenes with the Dredging and reclamation regulation; the amendments brought to the regulation facilitates that this project could be implemented. Hulhule island is a special zone and Under clause 10 of the dredging and reclamation regulation, special projects are exempted. As the environmental consultants, it is our opinion that this project should be allowed to proceed as the environmental impacts of this project does not pose serious concerns to the natural environment. It is a project that has far greater socio-economic benefits than these limited environmental impacts.Item Third addendum to the environmental impact assessment for the proposed Hulhulé-Malé bridge project(2016-05) CDE ConsultingThe purpose of this document is to assess the potential environmental impacts and mitigation measures for the proposed changes to the Hulhulé-Malé Bridge project. This document is an addendum to the original Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) prepared for the Bridge project in November 2015. The proponent of this project is Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure. The addendum is prepared to address the need to use Gulhifalhu NE reef flat to temporarily store large steel structures (Steel Pipe Piles, and Steel Casings) of the bridge. The main rationale for selecting this lagoon is the short distance to the project site, availability of space, access to deep water and relatively calms sea conditions to safely store the structures. The pipes will be removed in 7-8 months. The main reason why the piles have to be stored is due to the difficulties in holding a chartered barge for a 7 month period to store the pipes. The study area of this project considers the proposed storage site in Gulhifalhu Lagoon and surrounding areas that are likely to be affected by the proposed changes. The site has been affected by past reclamation activities and human activities. The site is also earmarked for future reclamation. The proposed developments are generally in conformance to the laws and regulations of the Maldives. The key impacts from the proposed changes are on the marine water quality, marine biodiversity within the pipeline footprint, and health and safety risks to workers. A number of mitigation measures are proposed for the most significant impacts from the project. These include ensuring only licensed, well-qualified and experienced personnel operate vessels and machineries; undertaking unloading and loading works in calm sea conditions; ensuring strict health and safety measures are followed at site; and to place the pipe fully and perpendicular to the reef flat. Alternative site was assessed to store the steel structures, at Thilafushi Reef Flat, Hulhumale Reef flat and Hulhule reef. The Hulhumale’ site is not suitable due to flight path restrictions and proximity to resorts. Hulhule site does not have enough space and there is too much marine activity in the area. Thilafushi site is suitable but when compared to Gulhifalhu site the distance to bridge site is longer and is more exposed to SW monsoon conditions. All sites have similar environmental impacts. Thus, the proposed Gulhifalhu site was preferred. Gulhifalhu Investment Limited (GIL) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) were they key stakeholders consulted for this addendum. The key recommendations from GIL were to take all practical measures to avoid and minimize damage to the reef, and to ensure that the pipes do not block the entrance channel to Gulhifalhu located on the eastern side of the reef. The main recommendations by EPA were to plan all works according to approved EIA and addendums. If any additional components are required to properly follow the EIA procedure. All works conducted outside the scope of the approved EIA reports must be presented as an audit in this addendum. EPA also recommended assessment of Hulhulé site as an alternative for storage of the proposed steel structures. This report is prepared in accordance to the technical guidelines and EIA regulations, prepared by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the terms of reference issued by the EPA for this EIA addendum.Item Environmental impact assessment for the proposed water supply system in Vilufushi, Thaa Atoll(2016-07) CDE ConsultingThe purpose of this document is to fulfil the requirements to get necessary environmental clearance from the Environmental Protection Agency to install the proposed Water Production Supply System at Vilufushi, Thaa. Atoll. The proponent of this project is Ministry of Environment and Energy. The main rationale for the project is to improve the health condition and quality of life of residents of Th.Vilufushi by establishing a proper potable water supply system that will provide clean and safe water for the residents of Vilufushi. The project is intended at providing an integrated water supply system covering rainwater and desalinated water production and supply. The proposed project involves installation and establishment of two 6,500 litres/hour reverse osmosis plant systems that consist of construction of tube well to supply raw water for the RO plants, construction of elevated water storage tanks, construction of brine discharge outfall and house connections. Furthermore, the project aims at laying of separate pipe networks for water distribution, rainwater collection and rainwater treatment system. Duration of the project is approximately 18 months. Currently the island population sources water from shallow wells constructed at individual households or in public areas. This is supplemented by collection of rainwater. These methods provide inadequate quantity and unacceptable quality due to the over abstraction and the unreliability of rainwater harvesting. All project activities will be in conformance to the laws and regulations of the Maldives, and relevant international conventions that Maldives is party to. The key laws and regulations applicable to this project are: Environmental Protection and Preservation Act, Environmental Impact Assessment Regulation 2012, Desalination Systems Regulations, and Waste Management Regulation 2013. The existing condition of the island and the proposed RO plant site was assessed for this report. Assessments conducted include marine assessments at the proposed brine outfall and alternative outfall locations. Groundwater quality and baseline noise level measurements were also taken. The assessments showed that there is no marine protected or environmentally sensitive site in the area and locations proposed for brine outfall showed mostly dead rock and rubble. The assessment shows that the RO systems can be developed on the island with limited implications on the environment. The assessment shows that the proposed developments involve significant impacts on the marine environment due to brine outfall construction, brine discharge, ground excavation and operation of vehicles and machinery. The project also involves moderately significant health and safety risks due to equipment handling and pollution. However, the predicted impacts can be minimized considerably with the proposed mitigation measures. Significant impacts of operation stage include marine degradation due to brine discharge, increased GHG emissions due to RO plant and operation of pumps stations, and increased cost of living due to additional cost in purchasing water. The assessment shows that the proposed project has many positive impacts including improved quality and accessibility to potable water, protection of groundwater aquifer, reduction of water related disaster risk, and increased employment and business opportunities The alternatives evaluated for the project is the alternative brine outfall location. The “No Project” option has also been explored and this option is not deemed preferable, given the current condition of portable water. An alternative site for brine outfall on the southwest corner was also explored against the present option and the alternative option was recommended. Monitoring plan is designed to assess any changes to the coral reef environment of the island, ground and marine water quality as these are the key areas that will be impacted from this project. Monitoring costs is estimated at USD 5,000 per annum. The management plan for this project is designed to produce a framework for anticipated impacts, including practicable and achievable performance requirements and systems for monitoring, reporting and implementing corrective actions. In addition provide evidence of compliance to legislation, policies, guidelines and requirements of relevant authorities. Stakeholder consultations were held with Vilufushi Island council, FENAKA, Vilufushi public and Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure. A willingness-to-pay survey was also conducted during field assessments. Both Vilufushi Island Council and public highlighted the need for a potable water supply system on the island. Vilufushi public is also willing to pay for the service. Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure stated they have laid duct lines to facilitate pipeline installations. Since the roads are already sealed with asphalt the public and the Council would like to see the road resealed to the original state of the road. In conclusion, this project has been designed in conformance to the relevant laws and regulations of Maldives but requires final approval from EPA for the detailed drawings. The most significant impacts are expected to be short-term impacts for the construction phase. Operational stage impacts are mainly limited to brine outfall location and emission due to power generation. However, mitigation measures have been proposed to adequately minimise these significant impacts. Overall, the project will have positive impacts to the island community of Vilufushi.Item Environmental impact assessment for the establishment of a water bottling plant at State Electric Company Limited (STELCO)(2016-03) CDE ConsultingThe purpose of this document is to fulfil the requirements to get necessary environmental clearance from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to carry out the proposed ‘Establishment of a Water Bottling Plant Project’ at State Electric Company (STELCO), Male’. The proponent of this project is State Electric Company Limited (STELCO). This project mainly involves establishing a bottling plant on STELCO’s main premise in Male’ city with a production capacity of 6000 bottles per day. A prefabricated building has been assembled on site to house the bottling plant. The project will be using the existing desalination plant at STELCO. All project activities are in conformance to the laws and regulations of the Maldives, and relevant international conventions that Maldives is party to. The key laws and regulations applicable to this project are Environmental Protection and Preservation Act, Environmental Impact Assessment Regulation 2012, Hygiene Regulation for Food Establishments 2014 and Waste Management Regulation 2013. The proposed site for the installation of the bottling plant is located on the main premises allocated to STELCO on the southern end of Male’. Proposed project activities do not require any major alterations to the terrestrial and marine environment. The most significant impact from this project is the increase in plastic waste. The proponent is looking into the prospects of a recycling venture for their bottles to mitigate this impact. This project will generate new jobs in Male’, which is a significant positive impact. The main alternatives assessed for the project are alternative bottling materials and alternative site for establishing the bottling plant. “No project” option has also been considered and given the economic and environmental factors the best option would be to proceed with the project. Stakeholder consultations were conducted with Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA). EPA’s main concern was to get the desalination plant of STELCO registered at EPA before starting the bottling process. MFDA did not have any major concerns but advised to carryout the necessary water quality assessments. The Environmental Management Plan (EMP) for this project is designed to produce a framework for anticipated impacts, including practicable and achievable performance requirements and systems for monitoring, reporting and implementing corrective actions. In addition, provide evidence of compliance to legislation, policies, guidelines and requirements of relevant authorities. Monitoring plan is designed to assess any changes to the physical environment as well as operational aspects of the resort.Item Environmental impact assessment for the proposed design and build basis for water supply network, ground storage tanks and reverse osmosis plant, allied works based on integrated water resource approach in R. Meedhoo, Maldives(2016-08) CDE ConsultingThe purpose of this document is to fulfil the requirements to get necessary environmental clearance from the Environmental Protection Agency to install the proposed Water Production Supply System at Meedhoo, Raa Atoll. The proponent of this project is Ministry of Environment and Energy. The main rationale for the project is to improve the health condition and quality of life of residents of Meedhoo Island by establishing a proper potable water supply system that will provide clean and safe water for the residents of Meedhoo. The project is intended at providing an integrated water supply system covering rainwater and desalinated water production and supply. The proposed project involves installation and establishment of two 40 m3 reverse osmosis plant systems that consists construction of a borehole to supply raw water for the RO plants, construction of elevated water storage tanks, construction of brine discharge outfall and house connections. An area of 9,557 sq ft has been approved and given to the proponent for this project. The project will also install the required water storage tanks including 500 m3 storage tank for desalinated water and 1,000 m3 storage tank for rainwater. The project aims at laying of separate pipe networks for water distribution, rainwater collection and rainwater treatment system. Duration of the project is approximately 11 months. Currently the island population sources water from shallow wells constructed at individual households or in public areas. This is supplemented by collection of rainwater. These methods provide inadequate quantity and unacceptable quality due to the over abstraction and the unreliability of rainwater harvesting. All project activities will be in conformance to the laws and regulations of the Maldives, and relevant international conventions that Maldives is party to. The key laws and regulations applicable to this project are: Environmental Protection and Preservation Act, Environmental Impact Assessment Regulation 2012, Desalination Systems Regulations, and Waste Management Regulation 2013. The existing condition of the island and the proposed RO plant site was assessed for this report. Assessments conducted include marine assessments at the proposed brine outfall and alternative outfall locations. Groundwater quality and baseline noise level measurements were also taken. The assessments showed that there is a marine protected area within 11 km from the island. Marine assessments indicated that the proposed outfall location is mainly composed of dead coral. The assessment shows that the RO systems can be developed on the island with limited implications on the environment. The assessment shows that the proposed developments involve significant impacts on the marine environment due to brine outfall construction, brine discharge, ground excavation and operation of vehicles and machinery. The project also involves moderately significant health and safety risks due to equipment handling and pollution. However, the predicted impacts can be minimized considerably with the proposed mitigation measures. Significant impacts of operation stage include marine degradation due to brine discharge, increased GHG emissions due to RO plant and operation of pumps stations, and increased cost of living due to additional cost in purchasing water. The assessment shows that the proposed project has many positive impacts including improved quality and accessibility to potable water, protection of groundwater aquifer, reduction of water related disaster risk, and increased employment and business opportunities The alternatives evaluated for the project is the alternative brine outfall location. The “No Project” option has also been explored and this option is not deemed preferable, given the current condition of portable water. An alternative site for brine outfall was also explored, but given the advantages associated with the proposed outfall, it is the preferred option. Monitoring plan is designed to assess any changes to the coral reef environment of the island, ground and marine water quality as these are the key areas that will be impacted from this project. Monitoring costs is estimated at Rf 75,000 per annum. The management plan for this project is designed to produce a framework for anticipated impacts, including practicable and achievable performance requirements and systems for monitoring, reporting and implementing corrective actions. In addition provide evidence of compliance to legislation, policies, guidelines and requirements of relevant authorities. Stakeholder consultations were held with Meedhoo Island council, FENAKA, Meedhoo public, Health Protection Agency and Environmental Protection Agency. A willingness-to-pay survey was also conducted during field assessments. Both Meedhoo Island Council and public highlighted the need for a potable water supply system on the island and are in favour for the project. Majority of the people consulted wish to pay as per usage. HPA, currently does not have any regulations for quality of potable water, however they stressed the importance of disinfecting and treating water prior to releasing to the supply network. EPA advised on ways to implement the project and its components. In conclusion, this project has been designed in conformance to the relevant laws and regulations of Maldives but requires final approval from EPA for the detailed drawings. The most significant impacts are expected to be short-term impacts for the construction phase. However, mitigation measures have been proposed to adequately minimise these significant impacts. Overall, the project will have positive impacts to the island community of MeedhooItem Environmental impact assessment for the proposed water supply system in L. Fonadhoo(2016-06) CDE ConsultingThe purpose of this document is to fulfil the requirements to get necessary environmental clearance from the Environmental Protection Agency to establish the proposed Water Supply System at Fonadhoo, Laamu Atoll. The proponent of this project is Ministry of Environment and Energy (MEE). Project contractor is Sierra Construction Private Limited. The main rationale for the project is to enhance the quality of services and quality of life of residents of L. Fonadhoo by establishing a proper potable water supply system that will provide clean and safe water for the residents of L.Fonadhoo. The project is intended at providing an integrated water supply system covering rainwater and desalinated water production and supply. The project is expected to be completed in 12 months. The proposed project involves installation and establishment of two 150cbm/day reverse osmosis plant systems, construction of two boreholes to supply water for the RO plants, construction of RO plant building, construction of water storage tanks, construction of brine discharge outfall, preparation of catchment areas, establishment of water treatment systems, laying of pipe networks for water distribution and rainwater collection, and household connections. Currently the island population sources water from shallow wells constructed in individual households or in public areas (e.g. a mosque). This is supplemented by collection of rainwater. These methods provide inadequate quantity and unacceptable quality due to the over abstraction, pollution from the existing sewage disposal system of septic tanks and the unreliability of rainwater harvesting. All project activities will be in conformance to the laws and regulations of the Maldives, and relevant international conventions that Maldives is party to. The key laws and regulations applicable to this project are: Environmental Protection and Preservation Act, Environmental Impact Assessment Regulation 2012, Desalination Systems Regulations, and Waste Management Regulation 2013. The proposed location for RO plant is a reclaimed area with ground cover species such as grasses and few shrubs. No trees of significant importance are required to be removed for this project. Marine surveys conducted at the proposed brine outfall location showed that the area is made up of a thick sea grass bed. No coral colonies were observed within this area. Current flow on the western lagoon, where brine outfall is proposed to be located, is expected to be low for most part of the year. This may lead to flushing issues during some periods of the year. The assessment shows that the RO systems can be developed on the island with limited implications on the environment. The assessment shows that the proposed developments involve significant impacts on the marine environment and terrestrial environment due to brine outfall construction, brine discharge, ground excavation and operation of vehicles and machinery. The project also involves moderately significant health and safety risks due to equipment handling and pollution. However, the predicted impacts can be minimized considerably with the proposed mitigation measures. Significant impacts of operation stage include marine degradation due to brine discharge, increased GHG emissions due to RO plant and operation of pumps stations, and increased cost of living due to additional cost in purchasing water. The assessment shows that the proposed project has many positive impacts including improved quality and accessibility to potable water, protection of groundwater aquifer, reduction of water related disaster risk, and increased employment and business opportunities The alternatives evaluated for the project are „No Project‟ alternative and alternative brine outfall locations. The “No Project” option is not deemed preferable, given the disadvantages of existing situation of potable water in the island. Two alternative sites were explored as brine outfall locations, both in the same location as the proposed outfall location but with different lengths; (i) outfall pipe 700m from the site and (ii) 350m from the site. Alternative option 2 is preferred. Monitoring plan is designed to assess any changes to the coral reef environment of the island, terrestrial environment, the ground and marine water quality, as these are the key areas that will be impacted from this project. The management plan for this project is designed to produce a framework for anticipated impacts, including practicable and achievable performance requirements and systems for monitoring, reporting and implementing corrective actions. In addition provide evidence of compliance to legislation, policies, guidelines and requirements of relevant authorities. Stakeholder consultations for this EIA were conducted with Fonadhoo Island Council, Fonadhoo Utility and Telecommunications providers, public of Fonadhoo, and National Centre for Information Technology (NCIT). In general, all stakeholders consulted were supportive of the proposed project. The island council and public expressed strong expectations from the project. In conclusion, this project has been designed in conformance to the relevant laws and regulations of Maldives. The most significant impacts are expected to be short-term impacts for the construction phase. Operational stage impacts are mainly limited to brine out fall location and emission due to power generation. However, mitigation measures have been proposed to adequately minimise these significant impacts.Item Environmental impact assessment for the proposed water supply system in Guraidhoo, Kaafu Atoll(2016-07) CDE ConsultingThe purpose of this document is to fulfil the requirements to get necessary environmental clearance from the Environmental Protection Agency to install the proposed Water Production Supply System at Guraidhoo, Kaafu. Atoll. The proponent of this project is State Electric Company Limited. The main rationale for the project is to improve the health condition and quality of life of residents of K.Guraidhoo by establishing a proper potable water supply system that will provide clean and safe water for the residents of Guraidhoo. The project is intended at providing an integrated water supply system covering rainwater and desalinated water production and supply. The proposed project involves the establishment of an integrated water resource management system using the existing RO plant and rainwater harvesting system. The project will integrate the existing 2 RO plants of capacity 30 m3 per day to the water supply network. The project also involves establishment water supply network system and water storage tanks. Consequently, a 502 m3 RO tank will be established and rainwater holding tank of 1,007 m3 will be established. The project will utilise the existing borehole and brine outfall line for the project. Duration of the project is approximately 12 months. An area of 11,128.22 sq ft has been approved to implement the project. Currently the island population sources water from shallow wells constructed at individual households or in public areas. This is supplemented by collection of rainwater. These methods provide inadequate quantity and unacceptable quality due to the over abstraction and the unreliability of rainwater harvesting. All project activities will be in conformance to the laws and regulations of the Maldives, and relevant international conventions that Maldives is party to. The key laws and regulations applicable to this project are: Environmental Protection and Preservation Act, Environmental Impact Assessment Regulation 2012, Desalination Systems Regulations, and Waste Management Regulation 2013. The existing condition of the island and the existing RO plant site was assessed for this report. Assessments conducted include marine assessments at the existing brine outfall and alternative outfall location. Groundwater quality and baseline noise level measurements were also taken. The assessment shows that the water supply system can be developed on the island with limited implications on the environment. The assessment shows that the proposed developments involve significant impacts on the marine environment due to brine outfall construction, brine discharge and operation of vehicles and machinery. The project also involves moderately significant EIA for the proposed Water Supply System in Guraidhoo, Kaafu Atoll Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|xiii health and safety risks due to equipment handling and pollution. However, the predicted impacts can be minimized considerably with the proposed mitigation measures. Significant impacts of operation stage include marine degradation due to brine discharge, increased GHG emissions due to RO plant and operation of pumps stations, and increased cost of living due to additional cost in purchasing water. The assessment shows that the proposed project has many positive impacts including improved quality and accessibility to potable water, protection of groundwater aquifer, reduction of water related disaster risk, and increased employment and business opportunities The alternatives option were evaluated for the no project option and alternative brine outfall location. The “No Project” option is deemed infeasible, given the current condition of portable water. An alternative site for brine outfall was also explored, but given the advantages associated with the existing outfall, it is the preferred option. Recommendations have been made to use an alternative if plant size is expanded substantially. Monitoring plan is designed to assess any changes to the coral reef environment of the island, ground and marine water quality as these are the key areas that will be impacted from this project. Monitoring costs is estimated at USD 5,000 per annum. The management plan for this project is designed to produce a framework for anticipated impacts, including practicable and achievable performance requirements and systems for monitoring, reporting and implementing corrective actions. In addition provide evidence of compliance to legislation, policies, guidelines and requirements of relevant authorities. Stakeholder consultations were held with Guraidhoo Island council, Guraidhoo public and Health Protection Agency. A willingness-to-pay survey was also conducted during field assessments. Both Guraidhoo Island Council and public are in favour of this project. Guraidhoo public is also willing to pay for the service. HPA, currently does not have any regulations for quality of potable water, however they stressed the importance of disinfecting and treating water prior to releasing to the supply network. In conclusion, this project has been designed in conformance to the relevant laws and regulations of Maldives but requires final approval from EPA for the detailed drawings. The most significant impacts are expected to be short-term impacts for the construction phase. Operational stage impacts are mainly limited to brine outfall location and emission due to power generation. However, mitigation measures have been proposed to adequately minimise these significant impacts. Overall, the project will have positive impacts to the island community of Guraidhoo.Item Environmental impact assessment for the proposed water supply system in HA. Dhihdhoo(2016-07) CDE ConsultingThe purpose of this document is to fulfil the requirements to get necessary environmental clearance from the Environmental Protection Agency to establish the proposed Water Supply System at Dhidhdhoo, Haa Alifu Atoll. The proponent of this project is Ministry of Environment and Energy (MEE). Project contractor is Sierra Construction Private Limited. The main rationale for the project is to enhance the quality of services and quality of life of residents of Ha.Dhidhdhoo by establishing a proper potable water supply system that will provide clean and safe water for the residents of Ha.Dhidhdhoo. The project is intended at providing an integrated water supply system covering rainwater and desalinated water production and supply. The project is expected to be completed in 12 months. The proposed project involves installation and establishment of two 220 cbm/day reverse osmosis plant systems, construction of two boreholes to supply water for the RO plants, construction of RO plant building, construction of water storage tanks, construction of brine discharge outfall, preparation of catchment areas, establishment of water treatment systems, laying of pipe networks for water distribution and rainwater collection, and household connections. Currently the main sources of water in the island are shallow wells constructed in individual households or in public areas (e.g. a mosque). This is supplemented by collection of rainwater. These methods provide inadequate quantity and unacceptable quality due to the over abstraction, pollution from past sewage disposal system of septic tanks and the unreliability of rainwater harvesting. A reverse osmosis desalination plant of capacity 10 ton is in operation, but the production capacity of this plant is not sufficient to meet the public water demand. All project activities will be in conformance to the laws and regulations of the Maldives, and relevant international conventions that Maldives is party to. The key laws and regulations applicable to this project are: Environmental Protection and Preservation Act, Environmental Impact Assessment Regulation 2012, Desalination Systems Regulations, and Waste Management Regulation 2013. The proposed site is located on the northern side of the island just within the old vegetation line. The site is comprised of beach vegetation mainly and has not been used in the past for any purpose. No trees of significant importance are required to be removed for this project. Marine surveys conducted at the proposed brine outfall location showed that the area is made up of mainly dead corals with sparsely distributed juvenile coral patches. No major live coral colonies were observed within this area. Current flow on the northeast corner, where brine outfall is proposed to be located, is expected to be high for most part of the year. The assessment shows that the RO systems can be developed on the island with limited implications on the environment. The assessment shows that the proposed developments involve significant impacts on the marine environment and terrestrial environment due to brine outfall construction, brine discharge, ground excavation and operation of vehicles and machinery. The project also involves moderately significant health and safety risks due to equipment handling and pollution. However, the predicted impacts can be minimized considerably with the proposed mitigation measures. Significant impacts of operation stage include marine degradation due to brine discharge ,increased GHG emissions due to RO plant and operation of pumps stations, and increased cost of living due to additional cost in purchasing water. The assessment shows that the proposed project has many positive impacts including improved quality and accessibility to potable water, protection of groundwater aquifer, reduction of water related disaster risk, and increased employment and business opportunities The alternatives evaluated for the project are „No Project‟ alternative and alternative brine outfall locations. The “No Project” option is not deemed preferable, given the disadvantages of existing situation of potable water in the island. An alternative site was explored as brine outfall locations, by reducing the length of the outfall. Due to better flushing, the proposed longer option was preferred. Monitoring plan is designed to assess any changes to the coral reef environment of the island, terrestrial environment, the ground and marine water quality, as these are the key areas that will be impacted from this project. The management plan for this project is designed to produce a framework for anticipated impacts, including practicable and achievable performance requirements and systems for monitoring, reporting and implementing corrective actions. In addition provide evidence of compliance to legislation, policies, guidelines and requirements of relevant authorities. Stakeholder consultations for this EIA were conducted with Didhdhoo Island Council, Dhidhdhoo FENAKA Office, public of Dhidhdhoo, and Health Protection Agency (HPA). In general, all stakeholders consulted were supportive of the proposed project. In conclusion, this project has been designed in conformance to the relevant laws and regulations of Maldives. The most significant impacts are expected to be short-term impacts for the construction phase. Operational stage impacts are mainly limited to brine out fall location and emission due to power generation. However, mitigation measures have been proposed to adequately minimise these significant impacts.Item First addendum to the environmental impact assessment for the proposed harbour project in Nilandhoo, Faafu Atoll, Maldives(2016-07) SandcaysThis is the first Addendum to the EIA for the harbour project being undertaken in Nilandhoo, Faafu Atoll. The project is proposed by Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure. The project constitutes dredging of a large harbour for the people of Nilandhoo while at the same time creating land using dredged sand including additional dredging for proposed reclamation of 10hectares of land for housing and infrastructure development including semiindustrial activities. An environmental assessment was undertaken for this project in Nov 2015, which has been subsequently approved. According to the EIA report, the objective of the harbour project is to provide a sizeable harbour to accommodate the increasing number of vessels in the island and to restore the usability of the harbour that has been filled over time with the breakwater being damaged, especially following the tsunami of 2004. The harbour on the northeast side is too small given that Nilandhoo has a lot of large fishing vessels and has been serving as the regional hub with fuelling services established on the old (tsunamidamaged) harbour on the northwest. This addendum addresses the modification to the location of the borrow area. One of the main concerns is that the performance of the dredger is affected due to having to pump up to 1km from the borrow to the fill area. Therefore, it has been considered important to move the dredge (borrow) area closer to the fill area in order to enhance dredging performance and achieve cost-effectiveness. During the first Scoping Meeting, which was cancelled by EPA stating that the project justifications were not clear, EPA identified that the borrow area needs to be moved as far as possible from the proposed quaywall as there may be stability issues. Taking this concern into consideration, further alternatives to the borrow area were also considered by the Proponent in consultation with the Contractor and the representatives of Nilandhoo people. During discussions with the Council and people of Nilandhoo, they have raised concern regarding the need to protect the proposed harbour, which would involve huge costs if the proposed option were adopted although it had been mentioned in the original EIA that harbour protection will be considered in the future. Therefore, in order to reduce the overall cost of the proposed project and to increase the usability of the proposed harbour even during rough southwest monsoon, appropriate alternatives were considered to the harbour design as well although it is beyond the scope of this EIA. A number of alternatives to the proposed harbour design was considered in the original EIA report. Of these, the option of upgrading the existing harbour on the northwest has been given due consideration in the light of improving on social concerns related to limitations in land reclamation. An alternative analysis that have been done in the original EIA and during the current Addendum indicated that the preferred alternative to redesign the existing harbour would have several advantages over the proposed especially the ease of use during rough southwest monsoon while leaving the possibility of an external quaywall if it becomes necessary at a later stage. However, some stakeholders believe that the proposed option has advantages over the preferred alternative as it has better opportunities for future expansion and growth of the economic potential of the island. Some of the other alternatives considered in the original EIA report including the expansion of existing harbour on the northeast to the northwest has cost advantages while it has restrictions over future expansion that the recommended alternative in this Addendum provides. 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 the impact on sedimentation from the proposed borrow area to the coral colonies in the vicinity and more importantly sedimentation during the filling of the proposed fill areas, which have already been covered in the original EIA report. Therefore, the impact of dredging has been considered in this Addendum. The main impact arising from the proposed new dredge area is the damage to the inner reef as a result of the dredging. There was a concern relating to the closeness of the dredge area to the proposed quaywall and the potential failure of the structure due to a collapse of the sides of the dredged basin. However, since the dredged basin would need to be dredged to less than 4m from the existing seabed, which is less than 6m in depth at present, there should not be such a problem. Only a few berths or quaywalls just adjacent to the reef edge dropping to 30m suddenly have failed whereas the proposed structure is over 110m from the dredge area, which will be dredged to only about 10m and not more than 13m under the current proposal. Furthermore, most of the naturally deep lagoon areas in similar islands would be about 10m in the middle areas with some areas having 15m depths. Therefore, the direct removal of some of the corals due to proposed option can be avoided by not dredging from the inner reef flat areas but the deep lagoon only, as in the proposed alternative. Reclamation of land considering current and future potential use is a favoured development activity in many islands today. However, based on the experience of most of the land reclaimed in many islands, the cost recovery of the project is low and taxpayers have reason to question the outcome of the project. Yet, if the project objectives were achieved by renting the reclaimed land for semi-industrial activities and housing developments, it may be a justifiable cost. It is sad to note that the proposed reclaimed land has yet to find itself a landuse plan and development scenario after several months of EIA approval that had passed by. This is a cause for concern in terms of the afore-mentioned socio-economic impact of the project, although it is beyond the scope of the EIA. If the land is appropriately managed, the project is considered to have several socio-economic benefits that will certainly outweigh the negative environmental impacts, which are of low significance. Although the impacts are not significant due to the absence of sensitive ecological elements that would be directly impacted, some project-specific mitigation measures have been discussed. These include consideration of the preferred alternative (which is also the or one of the alternatives discussed in the original EIA report) to mitigate the impacts of wave activity at the proposed quaywall, to consider shore protection as the reclamation progresses to minimize erosion and to move any live corals that may be directly affected into safer locations. General mitigation measures, involving appropriate construction management such as working during low-tide as much as possible and rigorous supervision during project implementation are also recommended. It is recommended to carry out regular monitoring as proposed in this Addendum, which replaces the monitoring programme given and approved in the original EIA report. It would be important to assess the movement of the sediment plume regularly and to ensure that sediment plume does not severely affect the reef areas. Turbidity levels are expected to be measured within the sedimentation zone on a regular basis up to 6 months after the project. In conclusion, it appears justified, from a technical and environmental point of view, to carry out the proposed project. Since alternatives have not been considered or discussed with the relevant stakeholders including the Council, it is recommended to consider all potential alternatives, including those identified by the EIA Consultants, before proceeding with the project. The preferred alternative borrow areas including the existing harbour on the northwest is recommended.Item Environmental impact assessment for the proposed water supply system in Thimarafushi, Thaa Atoll, Maldives(2016-11) Development Collaborative PartnershipThis Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report is prepared in accordance with the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulation 2012 to assess the impacts of proposed development of water supply system at Th. Thimarafushi. This project is proposed by Ministry of Environment and Energy and the impact assessment was carried out by consultants from DCP Pvt. Ltd., lead by lead consultant Amir Musthafa. The construction stage of the project will be undertaken by Puritas Pvt. Ltd. This impact assessment will identify and determine the significance of potential impact of each major component of the proposed project. Any activity that has a significant impact will be justified and alternatives will be proposed in terms of location and design to mitigate any adverse impact. The project proposes a water supply system based on desalination and rainwater harvesting. Feed water will be obtained from boreholes drilled over 30m deep. Brine will be discharge in front of the plant facility, 100m away from the beach line. Rainwater will be used to support the RO plant system. The main justification for the project is due to the decrease in quality of the groundwater in the island, as is the case in most islands in the Maldives and therefore to provide continuous supply of freshwater to the public. The integrated water supply system is not designed to cater for the airport facility. The total water production capacity at the facility will be 120 m3/day. The water supply system is designed to cater for 35 years. Thimarafushi is an island that has undergone significant development in recent history. There has been a major reclamation project as well as airport development. The proposed project will not need to have any significant vegetation removed as there are no such vegetation at the site. Considering the marine environment, there are no significant live corals that could be impacted along the proposed brine discharge location. The proposed site is far away from population center, and therefore will not have any significant impact on the residential environment. During the stakeholder consultations, all the major stakeholders were quite positive on the project. Their main need was for the project to commence soon. There were other minor concerns that could be attended easily during the implementation of the project. EPA did not that designing the project in such a way that it caters for the airport facility would make the project more feasible and ensure the facility is maintained at a higher level. Regarding impacts, moderate impacts are expected at the commencement of the project during mobilization and use of heavy machinery and setting up site for the proposed project. Due to the absence of notable environmental features at the site, the construction stage will not have a significant negative impact. However, waste management will be an issue as is always the case. Impacts of note include noise pollution, loss of visual amenity, potential damage to existing cables, health and safety issues, groundwater degradation, marine water quality degradation, impact on marine life, etc. However, most of these impacts were regarded as minor. Major impacts include those due to accidents, for which the probability of occurrence is less. Mitigation measures were proposed for all impacts. Mitigation measures included following proper safety procedures at site including wearing proper safety clothing, informing the council and community of the project details beforehand, getting information of existing cables from service providers, proper storage of waste and hazardous chemicals, ensuring the quality of water treatment. It is also proposed to place the discharge pipe with ballast blocks to prevent movement of the pipeline during heavy wave activity. Considering the impacts from the project, it appears that the project would not lead to any long term detrimental impact. On the other hand, the project has several positive impacts to the community including improving the health and lifestyle of the public, improving industries such as tourism and agriculture, thereby facilitating economic growth. Alternatives for the project including the no project option were also considered. However, it was recommended the project proceeds as proposed based on the feasibility of implementation and the small change to environmental impact that the alternatives will bring. A monitoring plan has been formulated and will be used to assess the impacts of the proposed system. It is planned that ground water, seawater, and product water will be tested regularly at predefined locations. Findings from the monitoring program will be used to re-evaluate the mitigation measures to reduce any significant negative impact on the environment. The overall environmental impacts of the project have been assessed using peer reviewed methodology and the results indicated that the proposed project has net positive impact. Given that the project has major socio-economic benefits, minor environmental impacts in addition to improving the health and wellbeing of the community; it is recommended to allow the project to proceed as proposed.