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Item Environmental impact assessment for harbor extension works at Fares-Maathodaa, Gdh. Atoll(2016-04) Land and Marine Environmental Resources GroupBackground The non-technical summary outlines the findings of the Environmental Impact Assessment of the proposed harbour extension works at Fares-Maathodaa, Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll. The proponent of the proposed project is Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure. The total estimated cost of this project is USD 843,060. The proposed project involves extension of the existing facility (which lies on the northern side of the island) by addition of 61m (along its length) to the eastern side of the facility. The project also involves construction of the main quay wall along the extension area and a sand bund breakwater along the outer boundary. Dredged material sourced will be disposed along the shoreline to the east of extension area. Key impacts, mitigation measures and alternatives Impacts on the environment have been considered for the constructional phase and post constructional phase of the project. These 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 development projects. Impact analysis was done using the Leopold matrix. The impacts identified are described according to their location, probability of impact, magnitude, significance and duration. Mitigation measures have also been identified for impacts which are irreversible in nature. Impact analysis showed that the main impact due to the project was during the construction phase, due to dredging activity. This impact was also anticipated to be of low effect due to the location (shallow intertidal area with seagrass beds) and scale of project (even though loss of seagrass beds from project site is a permanent impact). Overall, impacts identified were found to be of low effect and restricted to the project site, with temporary effects. Positive impact due to the project is the availability of a bigger and more planned area (dedicated area for unloading and passenger use) for use by the numerous vessels of the island and those who visit the island. Mitigation measures are discussed in the report for potential impacts, such as limiting dredging activity to low tide phase to reduce possible sedimentation impacts. Detailed mitigation measures are discussed in Section 11 of the report. Given the scope of the project and need alternative has only been considered for the material to be used for breakwater construction and location of extension. The no-project scenario which was also considered, is not feasible, given the scope of project and associated impacts on environment which are which are mainly of low effect and short term. The benefits on continuation of project outweigh the impacts and hence the no-project scenario is not considered a feasible option. The Consultant feels that the project is feasible with proper implementation of the mitigation measures proposed to minimize the impact on the environment. Stakeholder Consultation Stakeholder consultation was undertaken with Island Council regarding the concept drawing formulated by MHI. The council stated that they require a side quay wall to be included in the eastern side and if excess dredged material is available back filling areas where erosion is observed. Based on the stakeholder consultation, MHI agreed to change the concept design to include a side quay wall at the eastern side. The revised final drawing is provided in Appendix 5 of this report.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 water supply and sewerage system in Hulhumalé Phase II, Malé City, Kaafu Atoll, Maldives(2016-02) SandcaysThis report discusses the findings of an environmental impact study under the proposed water supply and sewerage system project in the newly reclaimed Phase II of Hulhumalé. The project is proposed by Malé Water and Sewerage Company Ltd. The project entails establishment of a comprehensive water and sewerage system in Hulhumalé Second Phase. The proposed system is similar to the existing system in phase 1 and includes the provision of water and sewerage services to all of the proposed neighbourhoods and commercial areas including the proposed Tourism District, Yacht Marina and Knowledge Park. The project takes place in the newly reclaimed phase 2 of Hulhumalé on the north of existing phase 1. Hulhumalé is part of the nation’s capital Malé, developed as a separate island but soon to be connected by the largest bridge in the Maldives. The existing size of the island is approximately 320 hectares including the reclaimed area of Phase 2. Hulhumalé is the most planned development in the Greater Malé Region so far. The proposed water supply system incorporates desalination facility with a total capacity of 10,000 m3 per day to be installed in different phases of the project. All requested facilities will be provided with metered connections. HDPE pipes will be laid on the roads as shown. In addition, a number of alternatives to the proposed project components have been identified in this document. Some of these alternatives consider alternative means of wastewater disposal including ground disposal, alternative means of water supply and alternative outfall locations. The most preferable alternative to the proposed desalination only water scheme is integration of a rainwater harvesting component. Though this alternative has few advantages over the proposed, at this stage in development of Hulhumale’ Phase II, it would be impractical to implement it. It has also been recommended to use solar desalination technologies since the initial demand would be low and production capacity minimal. Environmental impacts were assessed for both the construction and operational phase of the project. Most of the environmental impacts identified for the construction phase of the project were minor negative; these include excavation and its impact on the landscape of reclaimed land and sedimentation from installing the outfalls. However, the impacts identified for the operational phase of the project were mostly moderate to major positive; averting possible contamination and salinization of ground water and reduction of related health hazards. Disposal of sewage via a sea outfall is considered as minor negative impact while the alternative of disposing to ground has numerous major negative impacts. The provision of safe and adequate supply of potable water enhances living environment and provides economic opportunities such as tourism establishments including guest houses and city hotels. The main mitigation measures for this project during the construction phase are similar to other water and sewerage projects such as dust control plans, working during low- tide as much as possible and rigorous supervision. The design shall also ensure that dewatering is minimized. As for the operational phase trained maintenance staff to service the water and sewerage system and regular check-ups has been suggested in addition to monitoring water quality as well as reef health for potential impacts. In conclusion, it appears justified from a technical, administrative, socio-economic, health and an environmental point of view, to carry out the proposed water and sewerage system development project. It is recommended to proceed the project as proposed.Item Environmental impact assessment for the proposed water production and distribution facility at Hanimaadhoo, Haa Dhaal Atoll, Maldives(2016-11) Zuhair, Mohamed; Abdul Fathah, Mariyam Shujaa-ath; Shareef, Mohamed1. The purpose of this EIA is to critically analyse and assess the potential environmental impacts associated with the development of the proposed water production and distribution facility at HDh. Hanimaadhoo and expose the solutions and preferred alternatives as well as mitigation measures to minimize any negative impacts whilst trying to derive the maximum positive impacts from the project; 2. Currently, rainwater is widely used in all houses as cooking water and groundwater is used for various other domestic uses. Almost all houses have a rainwater storage tank. Bottled water is now mainly used as drinking water. Nevertheless, the groundwater lens in the islands of Maldives is depleted and highly saline due to over use and polluted in some areas and not fit for use for domestic purposes. Even though rainwater is widely used, it is not a reliable source as rainwater cannot be collected during dry season. Therefore, it is understood that Hanimaadhoo is in dire need of a clean water facility; 3. In the proposed facility the water production system is designed for 15 years whereas the distribution system for 35 years; 4. Proposed project involves installation of an RO plant with a capacity of 100 tonnes per day with three independent drains. Seawater intake is proposed from two bore wells 13 m deep at a site near the desalination plant. In addition to the bore wells, the facility will also incorporate rain water collected from public roofs, hence this is an integrated water resource management facility. Project also includes laying of distribution pipeline to existing household and a fire hydrant system; 5. A full baseline of groundwater quality, seawater quality, vegetation clearance and marine environment was established. It was found that the vegetation need to be cleared from the pump station location. Marine environment study showed that living substrata and fish count at the proposed outfall location was low due to dynamic oceanographic conditions that exist on the eastern side of the island with waves, swells and heavy currents which prevents settlement of new corals. Additionally, it is a high mixing zone; 6. The construction works of new powerhouses presented in this report are not expected to adversely impact the environment if the mitigation measures mentioned in the report are followed. The most important mitigation measures are daily maintenance of machinery, following chemical handling procedures, waste segregation and storage in closed labelled containers until disposal; 7. Overall, the proposed project is expected to bring in positive outcomes. It is expected that the newly established water production and distribution facility will ensure water security to the population of Hanimaadhoo in addition to greatly reducing health impacts associated with the use of polluted water; and 8. Monitoring is essential to ensure that environmental thresholds are not exceeded and mitigation measures proposed are working. Water quality and marine environment monitoring shall be done as per to the proposed monitoring schedule.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.Item Environmental impact assessment : Tower C of Amin Avenue, Hulhumale’(2016-01) Zuhair, Mohamed; Shakir, IbrahimThis Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Report has been prepared for the development of Tower C, which is the third block to be developed as part of the 3 mixed-use residential and commercial complexes of Amin Avenue to be developed in Hulhumale’ by Amin Construction Pvt. Ltd.. The proposed Tower C development will be undertaken in a separate 14 storey building in the land plot N2-23 in Neighborhood 2. Upon completion of Tower C, the complex will have 72 apartments. The Ground and First Floors of the complex will be developed for commercial plots, parking lots and access ways, similar to Tower A and B. This EIA is prepared as per the Terms of Reference (TOR) approved by Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on 16 December 2015. It is a legal requirement under the Amended EIA Regulation to prepare and approve EIAs for commercial, economic and development projects enlisted in Schedule D. Environmental clearance is obtained through approval of the EIA and issuance of EIA Decision Statement from EPA. The Tower C of Amin Avenue will be developed in Neighborhood 2 of Hulhumale’ in the land plot N2-23, which is located at 4°12'49.14"N / 73°32'25.66"E. The total land area of N2- 23 is 19,779ft2. The plot is located on the southern side of the proposed park located in the central parts of Hulhumale’. In order to understand existing environmental conditions of the proposed Tower C plot, assessments have been undertaken including noise levels, traffic flow and volume, ecological and structural assessments, groundwater and soil assessments. As Tower C is located within the overall Amin Avenue development boundary, comparison of some of the data collected for the EIA for Towers A and B with EIA for Tower C has been undertaken. Similar to the previous assessments, the highest noise levels recorded were from the northern side of the land plot having 76dB and 78dB. However, readings for the same locations during the previous assessment showed 69dB and 67dB, hence there is an increase in the noise levels of the surrounding environment. This is primarily attributed to the ongoing construction works at Towers A and B as well as other nearby sites. The average noise levels recorded on the southern sides were also increased from 62dB (previous) to 66dB (new) and from 61dB (previous) to 68dB (new). The increased noise levels on the southern side were also attributed to the ongoing construction activities for the development of Towers A and B. Generally, the traffic volume was observed to have decreased from the previous survey. This is probably due to the time where the data was collected and the period in which the data was collected where it was school holidays, hence there is a general reduction in the traffic volume of the surrounding environment. However, volume of pickups and trucks has increased from 7 to 8 and from 5 to 6 in the recent survey. There is no vegetation found within the plot allocated for Tower C development. Hence, there are no issues with vegetation clearance as part of the proposed development. A soil pit was dug within the land plot allocated for Tower C development, which indicate that generally there are no soil layers. The soil profiles show that up to the water level, only reclaimed sand exists. As there is no vegetation found within the site, the topsoil also does not have any humus content. A groundwater analysis was carried out for the Tower C location from MWSC laboratories, which indicated that the groundwater found within the site contains average levels of nitrates having 20.5mg/l. Phosphate levels found were 0.05mg/l and sulphide levels were less than 5 miccrograms/l. The salinity level was only 0.44ppt. However, high levels of dissolved solids having 451mg/l and turbidity level of 4.52NTU was found in the groundwater. Also, high levels of faecal coliforms having 308CFU were found from the groundwater at the site. Currently some social housing units and flats are found within the vicinity of the project sites which are observed to be quite new and in good condition. No physical damages have been observed from these buildings. These buildings are found on the eastern side of the Tower C plot and the overall development area. Condition of the roads around the proposed project site is observed to be in good condition. No cracks or physical damages are observed on the roads. The environmental impacts that may be associated with the proposed project are predicted and assumed in the EIA Report. These environmental impacts are divided into construction phase and operation phase environmental impacts. Most of the construction phase environmental impacts are believed to occur from excavation, dewatering, construction activities, operation of construction machinery and vehicles and construction waste disposal. The main environmental impacts believed to occur during operation phase of the project include household waste and increased traffic within and around areas. As part of the proposed project, a number of mitigation measures have been proposed in the EIA Report including using corrugated sheets supported by iron beams as a safety measure for protecting the excavated area for foundation, dewatering will be undertaken in opens spaces in Hulhumale to reduce loss of ground water, while preparing the site ready for construction, measures such as installation of safety and dust protection nets, appropriate signage will be placed to make aware people on the development. Also, important mitigation measures that will be implemented include complete elimination of waste disposal during construction and operation stages of the development into the project boundaries as well as promotion of a greener lifestyle have identified important aspects of the proposed development. The overall environmental performance will be monitored by an environmental monitoring framework that will be implemented as part of the proposed development of Tower C of Amin Avenue. Although during construction of the project, negative environmental impacts from construction activities have been envisaged, with appropriate environmental management and mitigation measures, these impacts will be reduced to a considerable level. Also, with positive socio-economic outlook of the project and considering the overall importance of such a development in Hulhumale’ to alleviate housing stress, it is concluded that the project should go ahead as planned.Item Environmental impact assessment for the construction and setup of an island sewerage system in Mulah Island, Meemu Atoll, Maldives(2016-11) Water SolutionsThis report discusses the findings of an environmental impact study undertaken by Water Solutions Pvt. Ltd in order to fulfill obligatory requirements of the National Environment Protection and Preservation Act, Law No. 4/93 for the proposed setup of the sewerage system (hereafter referred to as the project) in Mulah island, Meemu Atoll, Maldives. The purpose of this EIA is to identify and minimize potential adverse environmental impacts related to this project and enhance the overall quality of the project. By examining the project location, the legal framework and the existing environmental components such as marine ecology and the socio-economic aspects, this EIA provides useful information regarding the extent, nature and the magnitude of impacts that are likely to occur. The EIA will also help to identify the long term socio-economic benefits to the community after implementing this project. It also provides a framework for future monitoring of the environment, so that changes can be monitored and corrective measures can be undertaken. The proposed project aims to establish an island wide sewerage collection and disposal system. At present household wastewater is disposed on site by the use of septic tanks and this has contributed to the contamination of the groundwater to a state that it cannot be utilized for any portable use. The project therefore involves the following components: a) Installation of an island wide sewage collection network. b) Installation of new catch pits for each house / institution. c) Construction of pump stations in strategic locations to collect and convey raw sewage from the households and to the final disposal station. d) Construction of a sea outfall to discharge the sewage into deep sea. The proposed project will ensure that the groundwater of the island does not get contaminated through improper sanitation systems. It will also ensure that the surrounding marine environment will improve in terms of environmental quality and will ensure pollution from sewage does not occur on the near shore environments resulting from potential private outfall connections in the future that may arise as a result of groundwater pollution from septic tanks. The project is expected to bring several positive impacts on the environmental quality of the island and the surrounding reef. Particularly, the most significant benefit would be achieved through improvement in the bacteriological quality of the groundwater. The health benefits of the project are also worthy of noting as the improvement in water quality are going to bring significant health benefits to the community. At present, the people of the island risk contracting sin and water borne diseases due to the potential contamination of groundwater that escalates to various levels throughout the year. Children are particularly at higher risk and continue to pose a threat to human development and well-being of the islanders. Environmental impacts and mitigation measures Several environmental impacts of this proposed project have been examined through a number of processes. These include consultations with the project development team, field surveys, observations and assessment, and field experience gained from similar development projects implemented throughout the country. Potential positive and negative impacts on the environment have been considered. The assessment indicates environmental impacts both during the construction and operation stage. During the construction period, impacts are likely to occur on the marine and terrestrial environment (groundwater) as the proposed project does necessitate construction of an outfall. Most of the impacts during the construction period are impacts related to construction waste, dust emission, damage to the reef during sea outfall construction and noise as well as disruption to the daily life of islanders due to construction activities. During the operational stage of this project, there will be both positive and negative impacts. Positive impacts include the improvement of the ground water quality of the island. Negative impacts include the increased in extraction of groundwater for toilet flushing. This project does foresee some negative impacts even during the construction stage but is geared towards improving the overall environmental quality of the island, most notably the environmental health. The project does not pose serious threats to the marine or terrestrial environment and will directly benefit the environment and the community, both in the short and long term. Minor negative impacts with varying significance will occur as the project is implemented such as dust emissions during pipe laying work and some reef damage during the process of outfall construction. The pump stations have also been placed around the various locations in the island, some requiring removal of trees while others does not foresee much tree removal. The project will benefit the community and the island in the long term. It is important to ensure that the project implementation is carried in a sustainable manner and in such the sewerage system can be maintained in a cost effective manner as and when required.Item Environmental impact assessment for the development of tuna purchasing and storage facility, GA. Raaverrehaa, North Huvadhu Atoll(2016-01) Riyaz, Mahmood; Adam, M. Shiham1- This is the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report carried out for proponent ̶ Ensis Fisheries Pvt. Ltd. ̶ to develop and operate fish purchase and storage facility in Raaverrehaa North Huvadhu Atoll. The EIA was prepared as partial fulfilment of the requirement by the Ministry Fisheries and Agriculture (MoFA) for acquiring permission for the Project. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) of development projects is a requirement by the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act (EPPA) (law 4/93) of the Government of the Republic of Maldives. 2- This report has been prepared in accordance with the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations published by the Ministry of Environment and Energy in 2012 and covers both negative and positive environmental and socio-economic impact arising from the proposed project. Major findings of this report are based on information gathered during the field inspection of both the existing environment and possible effects of the project activities, and ongoing similar projects elsewhere in the Maldives and through extensive literature review and experiences gained from similar projects elsewhere. 3- Initially the proposed development was planned in Ga. Kedheraa Island and environmental Decision Statement was obtained to go ahead with the project. Shifting the planned development to Raaverrehaa was decided based on strategic analysis of the development, which found potential operational disadvantages that may impede smooth operation of the facility. Most importantly lack of shallow reef space to develop a harbour, which is an important infrastructure for the facility, remoteness of the island and being far from the airport and major fishing islands are also some of the shortcomings of Kedheraa. 4- The proposed activity will take place on Raaverrehaa Island and surrounding Falhu. Ga. Raaverrehaa Island is an uninhabited found on the North Eastern side of Huvadhu Atoll located at the periphery in an elongated, N-S oriented reef platform measuring a length of 20 km is shared by multiple islands. The reef is shared by three more islands including Villingili Island. The eastern part of the reef extends in the form shallow lagoon into eastern rim of the Atoll. The elongated-oval-shaped island of Raaverrehaa is lying in the western half of the reef. The coral reef system of Raaverrehaa is 20km long and the width is 0.8-1.8km. Reef perimeter is 43km and the area is approximately 25sqkm. The distance from the edge of the beach to the reef edge in both eastern and western sides is fairly consistent measured approximately 1km on the east and 400m on the western side. Raaverrehaa is an elongated-oval shape, N-S oriented island, with a length of 415m and width 100-119m and has an area of 4.7 ha. Average depth of the reef flat is less than -1 to -0.5m m from MSL. 5- Major operation that will be undertaken in Raaverrehaa Island will be loading/unloading storage and transportation of fish to Ensis processing facilities located in Hulhumalé Island. The facility will have 500 tonnes cold storage capacity and will produce ice needed for the fishermen to keep the fish fresh until they reach the storage facility from the fishing grounds. Necessary infrastructure needed to operate the facility will be developed on the island including the accommodation facilities for the staff working on the island. Electricity and water required for operations will be produced in the island. 100x3 KvA generator sets will be will be installed at the powerhouse to provide the electricity needed for the island. Reverse Osmosis (RO) desalination plants with total production capacity of 40MT per day will be installed to provide necessary water requirement for the operations. The proponent will ensure that the powerhouse and desalination plant implies with the relevant regulations. The exhaust chimneys, lightening conductors, sound attenuators, and CO2-based fire fighting equipment will be installed. Ear mufflers will be provided for staff working at louder areas of the facility. EIA Ensis Fisheries – Raaverrehaa Shore-based Facility – M. Riyaz & M.S Adam 15 | 90 6- The raw material, mainly skipjack and yellowfin tuna caught by pole-and-line and handline by Maldivian on local fishing vessels will be purchased entirely from the Maldivian fishermen. With Ensis’s long reputation in the country, it is expected that a large number of vessel will sell fish to the Ensis Fisheries Pvt Ltd. Ice will be provided free of charge from all the Ensis facilities as incentive for fishing and to encourage loyalty to the company. In addition the proponent will provide iceboxes for fishing operation startups in the area. 7- During the preparation of the EIA report an impact matrix, which is a standard tool for identifying the possible impacts of project activities, has been created for proposed development project Raaverrehaa Island. The activities carried out during the construction and operational phases are arrayed against a selection of environmental factors that may be affected directly or indirectly as a result of project activities. The impact outcomes from this analysis are considered and appropriate mitigation measures both in the development and operational phased has been provided. 8- The report has identified the main environmental impacts associated with the proposed activities and found that high water and energy consumption and the discharge of effluent with a high organic content are the major issues. Vegetation clearance and construction waste during the construction phase and noise, odor, solid wastes occupational health and safety issues may also be concerns of the operational phase. The study has found that most significant negative environmental impact identified during the operational phase of this project is release of untreated effluent into the sea. Liquid, solid and other forms of wastes and particularly hazardous waste generated during the operational phase has also been identified as significant impact associated with the project and appropriate mitigation measures are suggested for each and every impact identified in relation to the project. 9- The study has evaluated alternative options for the project and found that the proposed development is the right development for the right place. To enhance the water circulation in the reef and to limit the access to Raaverrehaa it is recommended to cut a channel through the walkway or remove it as an alternative for keeping the solid walkway which blocks cross reef water motion, increase nutrient enrichment and subsequent growth of seagrass on the eastern side of the reef and provides unlimited land access to the island. It is suggested to under-take post-development extensive monitoring programme that will keep on monitoring the environmental changes associated with the development and its operation and make necessary adjustment to the activities and its operation of the project based on the findings of various measured environmental parameters suggested in the monitoring plan. 10- The overall positive environmental impact from the development project is to integrate the existing product lines and the value-addition of fishery products rather than exporting the whole fish for processing. Job creation and stimulation of local economy, and exports is the most significant positive environmental impact of this activity. The long-term sustainability of the activity however, will depend on the sustainability of the fish stock. Skipjack and yellowfin tuna are highly migratory and their stocks straddle across the countries’ exclusive economic zones into the high seas spreading out into the entire Indian Ocean. The stocks are being managed by the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission which among its 32 coastal and distant water fishing nations. Maldives is a full member and now heavily engaged, partly due to its existing Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) Certification of its pole and line skipjack and yellowfin tuna fishery. The current assessed status of the skipjack and yellowfin tuna stock is considered ‘not overfishing’. The total average Indian Ocean catches are below the assessed maximum sustainable levels and the spawning biomass is healthy well above the point of recruitment impairment. The Maldives fishery component takes 17% of Indian Ocean skipjack and some 15% of the yellowfin. The most recent MSY is around at 680,000 Mt per year for skipjack and 350,000 Mt for yellowfin tuna. 11- Raaverrehaa is occasionally used for local picnic and it is the only remaining island for picnickers in the vicinity Villingili. Proposed fish purchase and storage facility development in Raaverehaa will limit the public accessibility for local picnickers. To overcome potential social problems that may rise in association with this development, the proponent has proposed to develop a picnic facility in any location identified by the public and Villingili Council. At present council is consulting with the people to identify the most suitable area to develop for local picnickers. 12- On the basis of the findings of this environmental impact assessment study and the impact mitigation measures proposed in the report will be duly implemented and recommendations are given due consideration, it is concluded that the benefits of the planned Ensis fish purchasing and storage facility development in Raaverrehaa Island will substantially outweigh an unwelcomed demand of burden on the environment.Item Environmental impact assessment for the proposed six storey building with a basement, land lot A-10079 Hulhumalè, Maldives(2016-10) Riyaz, Mahmood1. The report has been prepared for Ms. Maanaa Raafiu M. Kuredhige to fulfill the legal requirement of EIA regulation 2012 Schedule D which requires obtaining environmental clearance from The Environmental Protection Agency prior to construction of a building with a basement or buildings that have a foundation deeper than 5feet from the ground level. The proposed project involves development of a six storey building with a basement in Hulhumalè Lot 10079 (A-133) located on the north eastern side Dhiggaa Magu in Neighbourhood 1 (N1). 2. The total area of the lot is 152.8m2 and the building footprint is on 137.5m2. The proposed 6- Storey private residential building will have apartments in mezzanine, first, second, third and fourth floors. The terrace will have a 12.5m2 swimming pool and a raised deck. The basement will have provision for accommodation on one half and other half for vehicle parking. 3. The inclusion of a basement floor in the building requires the foundation to be laid at a deeper depth than the foundation of a typical building without a basement and so it is proposed to be at 2.11m below ground level. The biggest concern in excavating for this depth is the protection of foundation s of the adjacent buildings. Since the foundation depth of the proposed building will be deeper than the foundation depth of adjacent buildings. Detailed procedure to be used to construct the foundation of the building is described in the report. 4. Ambient noise levels, road traffic condition, groundwater, soil, vegetation, and a exterior visual survey of the surrounding buildings and roads have been undertaken to assess the environmental condition of the area. 5. The study showed that the road traffic is extremely low approximately one vehicle in every 1- 2 minutes. Exterior visual survey of the surrounding buildings show no significant structural defects apart from the minor surface cracking. Road condition of Dhigaa magu Nirolhumagu 06 Goalhi and Nirolhumagu 09 Goalhi are in good condition. It is unlikely the existing road structures will be affected from the proposed development. The land plot is covered with various types’ of plants (shrubs and creepers) due to human intervention. The dominating low level bush contains a large number of Ipili pili (Leucaena leucocephala) and a medium sized Casuarina plant was found inside the land plot. The removal bushes, creeper and the Casuarina plant from the project area will be insignificant in terms of environmental impacts. 6. The environmental impact assessment study for construction of six-storey building with a basement in Hulhumalè Lot A10079 found that foundation excavation and dewatering and waste are two main activities that would cause significant negative environmental impacts. 7. Of these a long term impact would be from constructional waste. The waste material generated during construction phase needs to be appropriately disposed if not aesthetic conditions of the surrounding environment will be degraded in addition to health risks, dust odour and smell nuisance to nearby residents is anticipated. Hazardous waste such as waste oil and lubricants if not disposed properly it will contaminate and pollute the groundwater. These impacts would be cumulative and can be managed through proper monitoring and addressing them in a timely manner. Based on the scale of the construction projects that is taking place in Maldives at the time of this writing, impacts associated with this project activity is insignificant. 8. Impact of dewatering on groundwater table will be short-term in nature, including loss of groundwater from the project boundary and vicinity. Major impact of dewatering would be increased salinity of ground water within the vicinity areas for s short period of time. Considering the fact that most of the households nowadays are using piped water for daily house hold uses, there will be no direct impact to the households from increased salinity but the impact would be felt for the trees nearby the site. 9. The study has evaluated alternative options for the project activities and evaluated potential option for power generation and alternative foundation options. Even though there is no very significant impact from this project after the report has come-up with an extensive monitoring programme that will keep on monitoring environmental changes associated with the project and make necessary adjustment based on the findings of various measured environmental parameters suggested in the monitoring plan. 10. The study found that the proposed project is in line with key legal and policies maintained by the Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure and EPA including Environmental Protection and Preservation Act, EIA Regulations, Hulhumalè Planning Guidelines and Maldives National Building Code. 11. Therefore on the basis of this environmental impact assessment study and the impact mitigation measures proposed in the report will be duly implemented and recommendations are given due consideration, it is concluded that the benefits of the proposed construction of six storey building with a basement is Hulhumalè Plot A 10079 will substantially outweigh its imposition on the environmentItem Environmental impact assessment for the proposed levelling and earthworks of football arena in Nadella, South Huvadhu Atoll(2016-08) Riyaz, Mahmood1- This is the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report carried out for Gdh Nadellaa Island Council to undertake earthwork and ground leveling of Gdh Nadellaa football ground. The project is funded under the sports arena development project carried out the by the Ministry of Youth and Sports in all inhabited islands. The project involves dredging of 50x144.4 area in front of the boatyard in Gdh Nadellaa lagoon and sources the material for ground leveling and earthwork of the football field. The EIA was prepared as fulfillment of the requirement by the Environmental Protection Agency under the dredging and reclamation regulation (Regulation 2013/R-15) for granting permission for the project. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) of development projects is a requirement by the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act (EPPA) (law 4/93) of the Government of the Republic of Maldives. 2- This report has been prepared in accordance with the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations published by the Ministry of Environment and Energy 2012 and covers both negative and positive environmental and socio-economic impact arising from the proposed project in Gdh Nadellaa Island. Major findings of this report are based on information gathered during the field inspection of both the existing environment and possible effects of the project activities, through extensive literature review and experiences gained from similar projects elsewhere in the Maldives. 3- The proposed project activity will take place in Gdh Nadellaa Island. Gdh Nadellaa is an inhabited island and lies in Huvadhu Atoll in a 30 km long elongated reef located on the south western periphery of Gdh. Atoll. Nadella is rectangular in shape, oriented NW-SE, and is found in a huge reef that contains over 85 islands of various sizes and shapes. The vegetated area of Gdh Nadellaa is 44 hectares the island is approximately 817m long and 526m wide. Total area of the house reef is 5615 ha (56 km2). The island occupies 0. 007 % of the total reef area. Average depth of the reef flat greatly varied along the reef platform ranging from 20-0.2m from MSL. The distance between the island shoreline and ocean-ward reef rim is 250m and on the atoll- ward side is approximately 1.2km 4- The terrestrial environment is similar to other inhabited islands across the Maldives. The topography of the island is almost flat and the relative variation in ground level in different parts. Existence of Kulhi on the northern part of the island indicates that the island slanting northwards. Gdh Nadellaa has lush tropical vegetation around the island dominated by coconut palms but Scaevola taccada (magoo) Kuredhi boashi, Halaveli and coconut palms surrounding the island. Hibiscus tiliaceus (dhigga) is abundant throughout the island followed by Thespesia populnea (hirundhu). Occasionally, Cordia subcordata (kaani) can be seen in the wooded area and rarely mature Fiscus benghalensis (nika) . 5- The northern shoreline of the island has been altered after the harbour development in 2009. Large area of the island was reclaimed adjacent to the harbour area. Semi enclosed water body which has openings to the lagoon was completely reclaimed by filling with dredged material from harbour and access channel development process. The playground has been development on the lowest part of the island that seems be the main reason for exposure for flooding during the rainy season. 6- The proposed project involves dredging 50x144.4 area adjacent to the dredged area in front of Nadellaa boatyard to a depth of -3m and source the dredged material, approximately 21675m3sand, for earthworks and leveling of Nadellaa playground. The area proposed for dredging and sources material for earthwork and leveling is a very shallow (0.5 at high tide, exposed at low tide) sand accretion zone in Nadellaa lagoon. The area is covered with sand and seagrass. Coral reef on the northern side, atoll ward side, is approximately 1.2km away from the shoreline. Comparison of historical photographs shows that seagrass developed on Nadellaa lagoon after the harbour development work. There are numerous coral patches and individual coral patches in the lagoon. 7- During the preparation of the EIA report an impact matrix, which is a standard tool for identifying the possible impacts of project activities, has been created for proposed development project in Gdh Nadellaa Island. The activities carried out during the construction and post-construction or operational phases are arrayed against a selection of environmental factors that may be affected directly or indirectly as a result of project activities. 8- The report has identified and described in detail possible change that would occur to the existing environment during the construction phase and have suggested appropriate mitigation measures for each and every impact identified in the report. Lagoon dredging has been identified as the most significant negative environmental impact that could be associated with the proposed project. Post development impact of the project, after the earthwork and leveling, has been identified very minor. Also the report found, based on similar project activities elsewhere in the Maldives, the island and the lagoon environment will recover from the expected impacts rapidly and will re-establish a new ecological balance soon. However the report has come-up with an extensive monitoring programme to monitor, mainly beach dynamics and ground water quality that will keep on monitoring the environmental changes associated with the development and make necessary adjustment to the activities of the project based on the findings of various measured environmental parameters suggested in the monitoring plan 9- The study has evaluated alternative options for some components of the project and discussed alternative location for the football ground, alternative sources of fill material and alternatives location to dredge and source fill material. On the basis this environmental impact assessment study and the impact mitigation measures proposed in the report will be duly implemented and recommendations are given due consideration, it is concluded that the activities of the project could go ahead as proposed. As the project is expected to bring numerous social benefits and minimize its negative impact on the environment.