Environment impact assessment for the proposed swimming pool construction project in Kurehdhoo Island Resort, Lhaviyani Atoll

Abstract

The purpose of this document is to fulfil the requirements to get necessary environmental clearance from the Environmental Protection Agency to carry out the proposed swimming pool construction project in Kuredu Island Resort, Lh. Atoll. The proponent of this project is Kuredu Holdings Pvt. Ltd. The main rationale for the project is to enhance and upgrade the tourism operations at Kuredu Island Resort, by building a swimming pool in front of the bar on the South West side of the resort, to provide a better product for the visiting guests. 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 and the Tourism Act. Significant impact associated with the components of the project impact on the islands groundwater, impact on the flora at the project site and the health and safety of construction workers and swimming pool users. All these impacts can be minimized with proper mitigation measures recommended in the report. The alternatives evaluated for the project is The “No Project” option nonetheless, this option is not deemed preferable, given the current condition of the resort. Other alternatives explored are alternative location and alternative pool type. Given the disadvantages of the existing conditions, the preferred option is to go ahead with the proposed project of construction of a fresh water swimming pool at the proposed location. Monitoring plan is designed to assess any changes to the environment of the island, groundwater and flora and fauna that 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. 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 on the water quality groundwater and flora and fauna. However, mitigation measures have been proposed to adequately minimise these impacts