Environmental impact assessment notes for H.Dh. Kumundhoo harbour construction project, Kumundhoo, Thiladhunmathee Dhekunu-buri, Maldives

Abstract

This impact note deals with the construction of a harbor at Kumundhoo in Haa- Dhaalu Atoll.

1. The implementing agency for this project is Ministry of Construction and Public Infrastructure (MCPI). The project was awarded to Heavy load Maldives Private Limited. 2. The proposed site for the project on the south-western side of the Island appears to be the most appropriate location for the harbor development taking into account environment, construction feasibility and economics of the proposed development. There is apparently a justifiable need to sacrifice a portion of land (with vegetation) from the Island to make the mouth of the entrance channel safe, the keep the harbor basin calm and to prolong the life the breakwaters. 3. Baseline environmental condition at the project site indicated that the coral cover around the harbor basin area was very low. The coastal vegetation around the proposed harbor area was also typical and does not represent any specific preservation value. 4. Significant environmental impacts are predicted for the proposed development project. But these are short term impacts (e.g. sedimentation). These impacts can be mitigated through proposed environmental impact mitigation measures.