EIA for the Development of a Senior Football Ground, and a Picnic Area at Mulah, M

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

I. Contents

I. Contents ...... I II. Figures ...... VII III. Tables ...... IX IV. Declaration of the consultants ...... i V. Declaration of the proponent...... ii VI. Declaration of the Contractor ...... iii VII. ާސާލުޙ ާދާސ ...... iv VIII. Non-technical Summery ...... vi 1 Introduction ...... 7 1.1 Background and context ...... 7

1.2 Purpose of the EIA ...... 7

1.3 Project Setting ...... 7

1.4 Scope of the EIA ...... 8

1.5 Project Justification ...... 8

1.6 Project boundary ...... 8

1.7 Methodology of research...... 9

1.8 Study Methodology ...... 9

1.8.1 Existing conditions ...... 9

1.8.2 Description of the environment ...... 9

1.8.3 Stakeholder’s consultation ...... 10

1.8.4 Impact prediction ...... 11

2 Description of the proposed project ...... 14 2.1 The proponent ...... 14

2.2 Project location and boundary ...... 14

2.3 The main developments of the project ...... 14

2.4 Development of the football ground ...... 14

2.4.1 Methodology for land clearance ...... 16

2.4.2 Procedural literature on uprooting and transplanting trees ...... 18

2.4.3 The receptor sites ...... 18

2.5 Development of the picnic area ...... 22

2.5.1 Beach Hut...... 23

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

2.5.2 Changing room ...... 24

2.5.3 Barbeque grills...... 26

2.5.4 Outdoor shower heads ...... 27

2.6 Location and size of the area ...... 27

2.7 Justification of the sites...... 27

2.8 The contractor ...... 28

2.9 Duration of work ...... 28

2.10 Labor requirements and local labor availability ...... 28

2.10.1 Machinery for the overall process ...... 29

2.11 Site demarcation and mobilization...... 29

2.12 Housing of temporary labor ...... 29

2.13 Path of heavy machinery ...... 31

2.14 Emergency plan in case of spills ...... 31

2.14.1 Overall emergency plan ...... 31

2.15 Backfill material and source ...... 32

2.15.1 Backfill source...... 32

2.16 Description of safety measures during construction...... 34

2.17 Utilities ...... 35

2.18 Summary of Project Inputs and Outputs ...... 35

2.19 Demobilisation ...... 36

2.20 Proof of finances ...... 37

3 Description of the environment...... 38 3.1 Introduction ...... 38

3.2 Study area and Survey Locations ...... 38

3.3 Methodology ...... 38

3.3.1 Physical Environment ...... 38

3.3.2 Natural and Biological Environment ...... 38

3.3.3 Socio-economic environment ...... 38

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

3.4 Physical Environment ...... 38

3.4.1 Climate ...... 38

3.4.2 Geology and geomorphology ...... 45

3.4.3 Hydrography/hydrodynamics of the project site...... 55

3.5 Ecology ...... 59

3.5.1 Wetland area of the island...... 59

3.5.2 Proposed Football area ...... 65

3.5.3 Picnic area ...... 67

3.5.4 Backfill borrow area...... 71

3.5.5 Mega Fauna analysis ...... 76

3.5.6 Hexapod analysis ...... 77

3.5.7 Noise levels ...... 78

3.6 Socio-economic environment ...... 78

3.6.1 History ...... 78

3.6.2 Economy and population...... 79

3.6.3 Education ...... 79

3.6.4 Health ...... 79

3.6.5 Electricity, sewerage, and water...... 79

3.6.6 Transportation ...... 79

3.6.7 Socio Economic benefits ...... 79

3.7 Hazard vulnerability ...... 80

3.7.1 Tsunamis...... 80

3.7.2 Storms...... 81

3.7.3 Storm tide hazard ...... 83

3.7.4 Earth quake Hazard ...... 84

4 Stakeholder’s consultation ...... 85 4.1 Scoping meeting ...... 85

4.2 Meeting with M.Mulah council ...... 85

III

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

4.3 Meeting with the women volley team of M.Mulah ...... 87

4.4 Meeting with the men’s football team and volleyball team of M.Mulah ...... 88

4.5 Meeting with locals of the island...... 89

4.6 Meeting with MRC ...... 92

4.7 Consultation with Mulaku atoll council ...... 92

4.8 Letter form MLSA...... 92

4.9 Meeting with MYSCE ...... 95

5 Policy and legal framework ...... 98 5.1 Introduction ...... 98

5.2 Relevant Environment Legislation ...... 98

5.2.1 Environment Protection and Preservation Act (Act no. 4/93) ...... 98

5.3 Relevant Regulations and Guidelines ...... 99

5.3.1 Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations 2012 ...... 99

5.3.2 Regulation on Sand and Coral Mining ...... 99

5.3.3 Regulation on Sand and Coral Mining ...... 99

5.3.4 Regulation on cutting down trees ...... 99

5.4 Relevant Regulations and Guidelines Environmental permits required for the project 100

5.4.1 Environmental impact Assessment ( EIA ) Decision Note ...... 100

5.4.2 Dredging and Reclamation Permit ...... 100

5.5 Responsible Government Institutions ...... 101

5.5.1 Ministry of environment and energy ...... 101

5.5.2 M.Mulah island council ...... 101

5.6 Guiding Policies and Documents ...... 101

5.6.1 Policy of waste management ...... 101

5.7 International Conventions ...... 101

5.7.1 United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) ...... 101

5.7.2 International Plant protection convention (IPPC) ...... 101

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

6 Potential Impacts ...... 102 6.1 Introduction ...... 102

6.2 Impact predication ...... 102

6.2.1 Limitations of impact prediction...... 106

6.3 Impacts of construction ...... 113

6.3.1 General ...... 113

6.3.2 Development impacts ...... 114

6.4 Impacts of utilization ...... 118

6.4.1 General ...... 118

6.4.2 Use of the football ground ...... 118

6.4.3 Use of the picnic area ...... 118

6.5 Impact on the wetland ...... 118

7 Alternatives ...... 120 7.1 No project options ...... 120

7.2 Proposed alternatives ...... 121

7.2.1 A1, An alternative for the football area ...... 123

7.2.2 A2, An alternative picnic area ...... 124

7.2.3 A3, An alternative borrow area...... 125

7.2.4 A4, An alternative method of land clearance. Felling of trees ...... 126

7.3 Alternative options ...... 127

7.4 Analysis ...... 130

7.5 Preference ...... 130

8 Mitigation and management of the negative impacts ...... 131 8.1 Impact mitigation ...... 131

8.2 Mitigation cost ...... 131

9 Environmental Monitoring ...... 135 9.1 Monitoring costs ...... 136

9.2 Monitoring report format ...... 136

10 Recommendations and Conclusions...... 137 11 References ...... 139

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

12 Team and role ...... 140 13 Appendix ...... 141 Appendix 1 TOR ...... 141

Appendix 2 ATS image ...... 145

Appendix 3 Work area Map ...... 146

Appendix 4 Work camp and map ...... 147

Appendix 5 Stockpile area ...... 148

Appendix 6 Survey map ...... 149

Appendix 7 Impact zones ...... 151

Appendix 8 Drogue map ...... 152

Appendix 9 All profiles ...... 153

Appendix 10 Bathy map ...... 154

Appendix 11 Mitigation map ...... 155

Appendix 12 All shoreline data ...... 157

Appendix 13 Profiles and locations ...... 164

Appendix 14 MWSC report ...... 165

Appendix 18 All CVs ...... 167

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

II. Figures

Figure 1 Project boundary and sites (reduced version) ...... 12 Figure 2 Survey sites at M. Mulak ...... 13 Figure 3 Project boundary and site football ground (reduced version) ...... 15 Figure 4 simplified diagrammatic representation of the procedure ...... 17 Figure 5 Adult plant replantation areas ...... 19 Figure 6 locations for replanting on the juveniles ...... 20 Figure 7 declaration for replanting ...... 21 Figure 8 location of transplantation Finolhu falhDevelopment of the picnic area...... 22 Figure 9 proposed tentative layout for the picnic area...... 23 Figure 10 a section of the proposed developments for the island...... 27 Figure 11 The location of the work camp and components ...... 30 Figure 12 Optimal drive path advised ...... 31 Figure 13 Proposed slipway layout (ReefTAC Maldives Pvt Ltd, 2012)...... 33 Figure 14 Current slipway structure, ATS image ...... 33 Figure 15 areas proposed for stockpiling ...... 34 Figure 16 Declaration of finances ...... 37 Figure 17 Average Max Temperature 2018 ( (Maldives Meteorological Service, 2019)) ...... 40 Figure 18 Average Min Temperature 2018( (Maldives Meteorological Service, 2019)) ...... 40 Figure 19 Average Max Temperature 2018( (National Bureau of Statitics , 2019)) ...... 41 Figure 20 Average Min Temperature 2018 ( (National Bureau of Statitics , 2019)) ...... 41 Figure 21 Daily mean temperature 2018 (Maldives Meteorological Service, 2019)) ...... 42 Figure 22 Daily mean temperature 2019, Jan till May (Maldives Meteorological Service, 2019)) ...... 42 Figure 23 Daily mean temperature at Th.Bueuni 2019 ...... 43 Figure 24 Mean Temperature 2019 ...... 43 Figure 25 Average rainfall throughout 2018 from Hanimaadhoo till Gan, with overall average (National Bureau of Statitics , 2019)) ...... 44 Figure 26 Daily rainfall Buruni 2019 ...... 44 Figure 27 Monthly Average rainfall for Buruni 2019 ...... 45 Figure 28 Current data on sight ...... 57 Figure 29 The mangrove area with the layers marked separately. The area provided in the chart shows the subtracted mangrove footprint area and the subtracted foot path surrounding the mangrove footprint area. (Reduced map) ...... 59 Figure 30 A photo from the foot path on the northern side of the mangrove footprint...... 60 Figure 31 inside the mangrove area; the wet path...... 61 Figure 32 inside the mangrove area wet path ...... 61 Figure 33 Inner mangrove area opening...... 62

VII

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

Figure 34 Known for its mud baths, the area has shrunk is size due to the spread of vines ...... 63 Figure 35 Ats Image for tree count (reduced) ...... 66 Figure 36 Distribution of plants according to the size range ...... 67 Figure 37 ATS Tree count Sports area ( reduced ) ...... 68 Figure 38 Distribution of plants according to size range ...... 70 Figure 39 overall view of the slipway area ...... 71 Figure 40 barrier on the slipway ...... 71 Figure 41 tree count of the slip way area ...... 72 Figure 42 General conditions of the terrestrial area ...... 72 Figure 43 General conditions on the borrow site ...... 74 Figure 44 Tsunami hazard zones, (UNISDR-ADRRN, 2005) ...... 81 Figure 45 Cyclone hazard zones, (UNISDR-ADRRN, 2005) ...... 82 Figure 46 Surge hazard zones, (UNISDR-ADRRN, 2005) ...... 83 Figure 47 the seismic hazard zones for Maldives (UNISDR-ADRRN, 2005)...... 84 Figure 48 Participants for the meeting with the team...... 88 Figure 49 Participants for the meeting with the team...... 89 Figure 50 meeting with locals 1 ...... 91 Figure 51 meeting with locals 2 ...... 91 Figure 52 Impact zone marked approximately at work sites. (reduced map) ...... 104 Figure 53 Predicted border impact zones of different activities to the locals ( Reduced map ) 105 Figure 54 declaration of alternative locations ...... 122 Figure 55 ATS Image for tree count alternative site...... 123 Figure 56 ATS Image for tree count alternative site...... 124 Figure 57 ATS image of the alternative borrow area ...... 125 Figure 58 Proposed development plan for the island...... 127 Figure 59 Successful establishment of silt fence near the riparian vegetation on a upper water shed (Lakel, et al., 2019) ...... 132 Figure 60 silt fence path proposed wetland area ...... 132 Figure 61 Track marks of heavy trucks on dirt roads ( source: stock photos) ...... 133 Figure 62 a Facade at in Male' Maldives ( Source: https://www.naheez.com/2016/11/a-huge- tower-crane-in-nasandhura-palace.html ) ...... 134 Figure 63 Map showing silt curtain locations ...... 134

VIII

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

III. Tables

Table 1 Duration proposed for the project activities ...... 28 Table 2: Major Project Inputs ...... 35 Table 3: Major Project Outputs ...... 36 Table 4 months and the seasons associated with them ...... 39 Table 5 Tide levels, Maldives ...... 55 Table 6 Ground water quality of the sites as per the MWSC tests ...... 58 Table 7Probe readings on site ...... 58 Table 8 Probe reading Marine sites ...... 58 Table 9 GPS coordinates of the tree transects ...... 63 Table 10 Overall tally of the transects and composition of the area ...... 64 Table 11 General description and count ...... 66 Table 12 Status of the plants in the plot ...... 66 Table 13 Girth and species of plant (random sampling) ...... 67 Table 14 Size range distribution data ...... 67 Table 15 General description and count ...... 68 Table 16 Status of the plants in the plot ...... 69 Table 17 Girth and Species of plants ( random sampling) ...... 69 Table 18 Size range distribution data ...... 70 Table 19 Bird Survey locations ...... 76 Table 20 Summary data for bird survey ...... 76 Table 21 Raw data for bird survey with time of siting ...... 76 Table 22 Kick sample analysis ...... 77 Table 23 Results for tally point count analysis ...... 77 Table 24 Tsunami hazard zone and wave height (UNISDR-ADRRN, 2005) ...... 80 Table 25 Cyclone hazard zone in Maldives and the probable maximum wind speed (UNISDR- ADRRN, 2005) ...... 82 Table 26 Hazard zones and specific conditional data (UNISDR-ADRRN, 2005)...... 83 Table 27 the seismic hazard zones for Maldives (UNISDR-ADRRN, 2005) ...... 84 Table 28 Intensity of impacts defined ...... 102 Table 29 Evaluation criteria, grading scale ...... 103 Table 30 general description of the tree count in the alternative area...... 123 Table 31 general description of the tree count in the alternative area...... 124 Table 32 Significant impacts, mitigation measures and associated costs ...... 131 Table 33 monitoring requirements and costing ...... 135

Declaration of the consultants

This EIA has been prepared in accordance with the EIA regulation 2012. We certify that the statements made in this EIA are true, complete and correct to the best of our knowledge and abilities.

Mahfooz Abdul Wahhab (EIA P22/2016)

Hassaan Abdul Muhusin (EIA.T03/2019)

ްނުހެޖަމަހ ީޢާމިތްޖިއ – ްނަކިރެތްނުދުފ ީދާޞިތްޤިއ

Secretariat of the Mulah Council Mulakatholhu, ާރާދިއ ެގްލިސްނުއަކ ުކަލުމ ުޅޮތަކަލުމ މ.މުލައް، ދިވެހިރާއް ޖެ. .M. Mulah Republic of Maldives

NO: 364-B/203/2019/4

Environmental Protection Agency, Ministry of Environment and Energy, Green Building, Male’, Maldives

RE: PROPONENT DECLARATION AND COMMITMENT FOR EIA FOR MEEM. MULAH

Dear Sir

As the proponent of the proposed project we guarantee that we have read the report and to the best of our knowledge, all information relevant to this project in terms of project description, project development works and operational aspects provided here are accurate and complete.

As the proponent of the project; we assure you our commitment to undertake the proposed mitigation measures and monitoring programme given in the report.

Thanking you

Sincerely,

Mohamed Ibrahim

President of Mulak council

Phone/Fax: 6720601 E-Mail: [email protected] Page 1

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

ާސާލުޙ ާދާސ .VII

ެގުށަރ ިއާކަޑނަދ ަޅޯބްޓުފ ިއަގ ުކަލުމ .މ ީކަޓޯޕިރ ާސާރިދާރުކްނާޔަބ ުރަވްނިމ ާރޯފުރަސައ ްށަޓްއެވާމިތ ިމ ެނާފްށޮކ ްށަޓްއެވާމިތ ްނެގިޅުގ ިއާއުޢޫރްޝަމ ާވިއަފާޅައަށުހ ްށަމުރުކުމިއާގ ްއެދްއަހަރަސ ެނޭޅުއ ްސޮގ ުރުތަދ ްނުތިޔްއަރ ިމ .ެވެއ ްލިސްނުއަކ ުކަލުމ .މ ީކަތާރަފިރެވ ެގުޢޫރްޝަމ ިމ .ެވެކެއާސާރިދ ާވިއަފިވެރުކ ްނުތޮގ ެގުމުރުކްނަޒަވ ުރަސައ ިއަކަޓްށަމުގްނިހ ުޢޫރްޝަމ ީކަމުނޭބ ުޑނަގިއަމ ެގުޓޯޕިރ ިމ .ެވެއްޑެޓިމިލ ްޓެވިއަރްޕ ީސާސ ީކަރަޓްކެރްޓްނޮކ ެގުޢޫރްޝަމ .ެވެމުޅެހަށުހ ްށައީސްނެޖޭއ ްނަޝްކެޓޮރްޕ ްޓްނަމަރަޔަވްނެއ ްއަތުތާމޫލުއަމ ާވްނުނޭބ ްށައަދްއުހ ެގީށެވާމިތ ާވްނުނޭބ

1. މި މަޝްރޫޢުގެ ތެރޭގައި 112 މިޓަރު ދިގު، 64 މީޓަރު ފުޅާ ފުޓުބޯޅަ ދަނޑެއް ގާއިމުކުރުމާއި، 55 މީޓަރު ދިގު، 50 މީޓަރު ފުޅާ ސަރަހައްދެއްގެތެރޭގައި ރައްޔިތުން ދަތުރުގޮސް އުޅޭނެ ތަންްކޮޅެއް ގާއިމުކޮށް، އެކަމާ ގުޅުންހުރި ެނޭވެދްނެގ ްށައިރުކ ްށަކަތޮގ ިހެޓްއަރ ެމްނެއ ިއާޓްއެވާމިތ ްއަތްތަކްއަސަމ ިމ .ެވެއެނެމިހ ްނުރުކުމިއާގ ްއަތްތަލީސަވ ގޮތްތައް އަޅާކިޔާ، އެންމެ ރަނގަޅު ގޮތް ކަނޑައެޅުންވެސް މި މަސައްކަތުގެ ތެރޭގައި ހިމެނެއެވެ. އަދި ތިމާވެއްޓަށް ްސެވްނުރުކާޔަބ ްއަތުލީސްފަތ ެގުތޮގ ީވްނަރުކުލަމައ ްށަމުރުކަޑުކ ްއަތުރަސައ ޭވެދޭނ ެނާފްށޮކ ްނުބަބަސ ެގުޢޫރްޝަމ ިމ .ެވެއެނެމިހ 2. ވޭތިވެ ދިޔަ 10 އަހަރު ދުވަހުގެ ތެރޭގައި ރަށުގެ އާބާދީ އިތުރުވެ، 1951 މީހުން މިހާރު މުލީގައި ދިރިއުޅެމުން ެގްއެދަދައ ަނިގ ެގުށަރ ިދައ .ެވެމަކިރެވްސަމ ީކަތަކްއަސަމ ީދާސިތްޤިއ ުޑނަގިއަމ ާރުކ ިއަގުށަރ .ެވެއެދްނެގަބެއ ްނުމަކްނެހެއ .ެވެއެންނުނާވުޒ ޭޅުކ ަޅޯބުޓުފ ީކަންނުނާވުޒ ަނިގ ެގުށަރ .ެވެއެވްލިމާސ ިއަގުތަކްއަސަމިމ ްނުނާވުޒ ީޢާމިތުޖިއ ީނަވ ްނުބިލުނ ުތަސުރުފ ެގުމުޅުކ ަޅޯބްޓުފ ްށަންނުނާވުޒ ާހިރުހ ިއަގުޑނަދ ަޅޯބްޓުފ ްތޮއ ަގުށަރ ުތުގަވިމ މައްސަލައަކަށް ވެގެން ގޮަސްފައެވެ. އެހެންކަމުން، ރަށުގެ އިރުމަތި އަވަށުގައި އައު ފުޓްބޯޅަ ދަނޑެއް އެޅުން ވަނީ ްށޮކުމިއާގ ުކެއާކަތްތަލީސަވ ަމަހިރުފ ްއެދްއަހަރަސ ެނޭޅުއ ްސޮގ ުރުތަދ ްނުތިޔްއަރ ެގުށަރ .ެވެއަފެވ ްށަކަމަކުމްނިހުމ ްއެކަތެއ ީދާސިތްޤިއ ިދައ ީޢާމިތުޖިއ ްށަންނުތިޔްއަރ ެގުށަރ ީކަތަކްއަަސަމ ެދ ިމ .ެވެކެދުއަވ ެގުރާކުރަސ ީކަމުނިދ ާރަވްޝަމ ުނުވްއޭބ ްށަމުދޯހ ުލާޔިހ ެގްނުތިޔްއަރ ްނުތޮގޭޅުގ ާމަކިމ ިދައ .ެވެކެކަތްތަކްއަސަމ ެނާރުކ ްއެކަތާދިއަފ ާހިރުހ ްށަމަކ ުޢޫރްޝަމ ެދ ާވިއަފެވްނުނޭބ ްށަޑޮބ ްށަރަވ ްށަށަރ ުތުގަވިމ ީކައ ުޢޫރްޝަމ ެދ ިމ ިއަގުކަތ ްނުވުލަދްއަބ .ެވެއަފެވުޤާފިތްއިއ ީނަވ ްސެވްނިރެވިއަބ 3. މި މަޝްރާޢު ހިންގުމަށް ހުށައަޅާފައިވާ މާހައުލުގެ ދިރުންތަކާ ގުޅޭ ދިރާސާތައް ކުރެވި، މި މަސައްކަތުގެ ސަބަބުން .ެވެއެނާވިއަފިވެލ ާވުޅައިލައ ިއަގްޓޯޕިރ ިމ ްސެވ ްށަޗްއަމ ެގުކަތަރަސައ ާވެދޭނ ެނާފްށޮކ ްށަކަތްނުރިދ ެގުލުއަހާމ ެގޭޖްއާރ ްށޮކުމްނާއ ީރުހ ިއަގުދްއަހަރަސިމ ީނަވިއަފްސޮގ ްނެގެވަމާހ ްނިއަސާރިދ ުނުވެރުކ ްނުތޮގޭހެބ ާސްއެގާހަގްސަގ ވަލުތެރޭގައި ހެދޭ ގަސްތަކުގެ ބާވަތްތައް ކަމެވެ. އަދި ވަކިން ހާއްސާ ، ދުވަސްވީ އެއްވެސް ގަހެއް ނެތްކަމެވެ. ފުޓްބޯޅަ ދަނޑުއެޅުމަށް ހުށައަޅާފައިވާ ސަރަހައްދު ކައިރީގައި 52،573.48 އަކަ މީޓަރުގެ ޗަސް ބިމެއް ވެއެވެ. މި ޗަސްބިމުގެ ދިރާސާ ކުރެވި، އޭގެ ތަފުސީލު މި ރިޕޯޓުގައި ހިމެނިފައި ވާނެއެވެ. 4. މި ރިޕޯޓުގައި މި މަޝްރޫޢު ކުރިޔަށް ގެންދެވިދާނެ އިތުރު ގޮތްތައް އަޅާކިޔާ، އެންމެ ރަނގަޅުކަމަށް ފެންންގޮތް ވެސް .ެވެއެނާވ ިއަފާލާޔިކާޅައ ްނުލްއެގ ިއާއ ާދިއަފ ެގުމުއިދްނެގުނ ްށަޔިރުކ ުޢޫރްޝަމ ިމ ިއަގޭރެތެގެއ .ެވެއެނާވިއަފާޅަހަށުހ ްސެވްށަޗްއަމ ެގުމުލްއެގ ިއާއ ާދިއަފ ެގުމުޔިދްނެގ ްށަޔިރުކ ިއަގްއެދްއަހަރަސ ްނެހެއ ެގުށަރ ުޢާރްޝަމ ިމ ިދައ

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

އަލިއަޅުވާލެވިފައި ވާނެއެވެ. އެގޮތުން އެހެން ސަރަހައްދެއްގައި މަޝްރާޢު ކުރިޔަށް ގެންދާނަމަ، ރަށުގެ ތަރައްޤީއަށް .ެވެއަފިވެރުކަގަހާފ ީނަވ ްނަކެނާރައުރުބ ްށަކަތުޢޫރަޝަމ ްނެހިނެހެއ ާވިއަފިވެލާވާރ ްނިބ ްށަމުރުކުމިއާގ ުޑނަދ ަޅޯބްޓުފ ީނާރުކްއެރަސައ ޭވެދޭނ ުޑޮބ ެމްނެއ ްށަޓްއެވާމިތ ްނުބަބަސ ެގުޢޫރްޝަމ ިމ .5 ްނުތަކްއަސަމެގުމުގެނިލެވ ްނަވުލިފްނަޑުގިޑައ ެގުދްއަހަރަސިރުކުފާސްނިބ ިދައ ްނުތަކްއަސަމ ެގުމުރުކުފާސ ިމ ްށަމުރުކަޑުކ ްއަތުރަސައ ޭވެދޭނ ާރުކ ްށަޓްއެވާމިތ .ެވެއީތެނާރުކ ުރަސައ ޭވެދޭނ ްށަކަތްނުރިދ ެގުދްއަހަރަސެއ ެނާދިބިލ ްށަޓްއެވާމިތ ަމަނިފްސޮގްނެގ ްށަޔިރުކ ްތަކްއަސަމ ްނެގާޅައ ްއަތުޅަވަޔިފ ާވިއަފްށޮކަގަހާފ ިއަގުޓޯޕިރ ަނިގ ުނަހުނ ްށަންނުތިޔްއަރ ްނުބަބަސ ެގުޢޫރްޝަމ ިމ ިއަގްއެތޮގަލުމުޖ .ެވެއެނާދ ްނެގިވެރުކަޑުކ ްއަތްނުލްއެގ ާޖާރުމ ްޓޯޕިރ ޭއ.ިއައ.ީއ ިމ ީނާވްނަދްނެގ ްށަޔިރުކ ުޢޫރްޝަމ ިމ .ެވެއެނާރުކ ްއަތާދިއަފ ީދާސިތްޤިއ ިދައ ީޢާމިތުޖިއ .ެވެންނީތަމ ެގުތިގާވްތޮގްއެއ ިއާޔަފަލ ިއާމުމްނިނ ާމްނިނ ްނިއ ީސްނެޖޭއ ްނަޝްކެޓޮރްޕ ްޓްނަމަރަޔަވްނެއ ުހަފްށަމުރުކ

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

VIII. Non-technical Summery The project is proposed by the council of M. Mulaku. Acting on behalf of the government of Maldives. The contractor assigned for the project is SASe. Prv. Ltd 1. The purpose of this EIA is to critically analyse and assess the potential environmental impacts associated with the proposed development of a picnic area and football ground approximately 64 X 112 m in the island of M.Mulah and explore 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. The community has had a steady growth in population in the past decades and has a resident population of 1951 individuals. The island’s main economic activity is fishing and sustains a fair portion of the youth base in the island. The demand for a football ground is proposed to accommodate the youth base that shares the existing sports arenas in the island. it was specifically proposed to set up a football ground on the eastern side of the island so as to bring a development to the side that lacked any. The picnic area was a governmental promise and the council as the proponent wishes to implement this as this is beneficial for the locals; socially and economically. During the stakeholder’s consultation it was noted that the locals were in need of the developments identified. 3. A baseline of existing environment was studied which falls under the proposed development area as it is anticipated to impact negatively on the direct footprint. The terrestrial survey shows that the plants in the area are typical of most of the tropical low laying islands with five distinct levels of vegetation starting from the forest juveniles on the forest floor, to the forest shrubbery, followed by the under story, the majority reaching the canopy, and few reaching the emergent layer. The majority of the plots were dominated by Cocos nucifera I of varying sizes with other species of plants. The wetland area close to the developed football area was also studied and a baseline recorded. The area too was typical of a tropical wetland with wet footprint of approximately 52,573.48m2. 4. Additionally, this study also involved identification of alternative options in place of the proposed development. This included an evaluation of the no project option and the alternative options. 5. Land clearance and excavation for backfill material are two project actions with significant negative impact. Hence, strict mitigation must be followed throughout the development. Most positive impacts of the project are socio-economic and will benefit the locals in the long run.

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

1 Introduction 1.1 Background and context

This Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) addresses the proposed development of a senior football ground, and picnic area at M.Mulah. The consultant on behalf of INSA PVT LTD had prepared this document in accordance with the EIA regulations (2012) and regulation on felling, uprooting and relocation of trees and palm trees of the Environment Protection Agency (EPA). The scope of the EIA is limited to infrastructure development, and land clearance provides a focused assessment of the proposed work on the existing environment of the area.

Studies conducted for the project include, on site surveys such as assessment of terrestrial habitat, terrestrial environmental conditions, ATS surveys and stakeholder consultation. 1.2 Purpose of the EIA

Given the potential environmental impacts associated with infrastructure development, and land clearance at terrestrial environments, the contractor on behalf of the proponent wishes the consultant to prepare and submit an EIA to the concerned government authorities to comply with the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act (4/93) and EIA Regulations 2012.

The objectives of the EIA is;

• To provide an assessment of the potential environmental effects of the proposed development and determine, the activities that are likely to have a significant effect on the environment and to propose ways and means of avoiding, mitigating, or compensating the predicted negative effects of the project, • To provide the necessary information about the site of development and other factors surrounding the development to EPA, • To assess the proposal and how it has been developed to achieve a satisfactory level of environmental performance in line with the EIA regulation. 1.3 Project Setting

The island of M.Mulah. an island located on the western ridge of Mulaku atoll is one of the inhibited islands near the capital M.Mulhi . The council of M. Mulah requested for public tenders for numerous developments on the island;

a) the development of a senior football ground (location 2.944796°, 73.587817°), b) the development of a picnic area (location 2.949953°, 73.580913°).

Development ‘a’; proposed to accommodate for the increasing population of the island, to mitigate civil unrest and reduce disputes as currently the majority youth population of the island is to use one playground (location 2.947421°, 73.581986°).

Development ‘b’; proposed in accordance to the current government manifesto 2018 where, all islands shall have an area where the locals can exercise.

The council acting as the proponent proposes to complete the above stated components (a, and b), the consultant is working on behalf of the contractor.

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

1.4 Scope of the EIA

The scope of the EIA is based on the consultation held during the scoping meeting at EPA on 31st July 2019. After the meeting the drafted ToR was endorsed by the EPA which defined the scope of the EIA under the following;

i. Description of the project ii. Description of the existing environment iii. Study of applicable laws and regulations iv. Potential impacts of the project v. Alternatives of the project vi. Mitigation and management vii. Monitoring plan development viii. Stakeholder’s consultation.

A copy of the TOR and the attendance sheet is attached in Annex 1

The meeting was attended by

i. Mulaku atoll council ii. M.Mulah council iii. The contractor iv. Environment ministry (MOE) v. Environment protection agency (EPA) vi. Maldives land survey authority (MLSA) vii. Maldives national planning and infrastructure (MNPI) 1.5 Project Justification

The island is one of the most densely populated islands in the area. With a large population and a considerable youth base, the resident population faces social, health and economical challenges. The proposed works and the need for the development are stated above under the heading ‘Project Setting’.

The island has a main football field that is open for all and is often full hosting numerous teams almost daily. For the semiprofessional teams, a turf ground is used. Hence, this would be the second senior football field developed in the island. The development of the second senior football ground was requested for the island council on numerous occasions and will bring in a relief to the demand on the current mini plot that has been the cause of numerous negative encounters and social unrest.

The addition of a senior football ground will mitigate any negative clashes within the immensely competitive population with numerous semiprofessional teams. The proposed senior football ground can be booked in advance and used accordingly.

The development of the picnic area was a governmental promise, this is likely to provide the resident youth base an area to socialize, develop new skillsets and potentially expand into the tourism industry. This is in line with the self-sufficiency policy of the current government. 1.6 Project boundary

The project boundary is limited to the area demarked on the map in Figure 1.

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

1.7 Methodology of research.

The field studies have been undertaken using methods employed in EIA studies. The sites of terrestrial assessment are provided in the chart Figure 2.

Environmental impacts are predicted by using checklists and its significances are evaluated by the use of matrices. Expert judgment and professional opinion as well as review of relevant EIA studies have also been widely used throughout the impact assessment and evaluation process. These methods are described in detail at the relevant section of this EIA Report. 1.8 Study Methodology

The field studies have been undertaken using methods employed in EIA studies. The sites of water samples areas area provided in the chart Figure 2. 1.8.1 Existing conditions

The existing conditions were described initially by reviewing relevant available literature about the project, next the material was cross-checked on-site images using google Earth. This was followed by setting up a plan for consultation of the locals. The local consultation was executed on site, during the consultation interested locals were invited for a survey field visit to further aid in identifying the problems and sharing the local hindrances; in this methodology the interested parties will point out on site, the significant points of interest for them. On site, every local hindrance relevant to the project was recorded and photographed and if relevant used in the report. 1.8.2 Description of the environment

The physical environment and the climate conditions were described using onsite data, and available data in literature. The climatic conditions were described by using data from the nearest weather stations. The natural and biological environment was surveyed, data collected, analyzed and reported. The socioeconomic data was collected and analyzed with the help of the council and reported. The following are the details of the methodology used.

1.8.2.1 Ecology

1.8.2.1.1 Terrestrial Survey

1.8.2.1.1.1 Footprint analysis

Vegetation survey was carried out on site and using ATS initially. Using Surfer, on the georeferenced ATS image, the coordinates of the footprint border were placed and the images was used to identify the type, number and general size of the trees in the plot.

1.8.2.1.1.1.1 Tree survey

After determining the border, an individual tree count of the plot was carried out. During the survey marks were noted to identify the owner of the plants During the survey girth of random plants were taken.

Line transects which falls in the wet zone were taken throughout the footprint and georeferenced. The transects were recorded at every meter for a length of 20m. The transects recorded the type of tree that was encountered in the area. This was taken as a percentage to provide an overall image of the area.

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

1.8.2.1.1.2 Bird Survey

Bird Survey was carried out at three sites. Employing a point survey method, all birds encountered within a duration of 1 hour was verified and noted..

1.8.2.1.1.3 Kick sampling

Kick samples were taken from numerous water bodies to identify the general aquatic lifeforms in the water samples. Since there was no current or stream movement, the strainer was inserted a kick was generated to mimic a current and the kick up sediment captured and cleaned into a container. This process was repeated to collect the sample data. The samples were sealed to be analyzed.

1.8.2.1.1.4 Tally point count.

On site, whatever insect encountered was noted down and reported to the level of its order

1.8.2.1.1.5 Noise levels

To determine the general noise levels measurements were taken at set locations in replicates where work was going to be conducted and at locations where no work will be conducted and at residential areas.

1.8.2.1.1.6 Mangrove area analysis

1.8.2.1.1.6.1 Boundary classification

The boundary was marked using a hand held GPS tracking the path of the surveyor. To ensure the validity of the path the surveyor employed local guides to take them on three desired paths; the mangrove open area, mangrove wet zone, and possible footpath.

1.8.2.1.1.7 Fresh water sampling

Fresh water samples were recorded at different locations and sent to MWSC for testing.

1.8.2.1.2 Marine Survey

All marine surveys were conducted taking into account on sight conditions, the survey team started off with the analysis of the impact zone and the footprint.

1.8.2.1.2.1 Marine transects

To further determine the marine benthic conditions of the area, a 50 m transect was laid on significant sites and benthic categories identified.

1.8.2.1.2.2 Fish spotting

Due to the unique environment and lack of reference points for repetition of monitoring, fish spotting was carried out on the georeferenced locations. A surveyor was released to the location of interest and after allowing acclimatization fish spotting and recording was commenced. 1.8.3 Stakeholder’s consultation

All stakeholder consultation was conducted after an official request for the meeting. The consultation with the council was followed by the consultation with the locals. The stakeholder’s consultation for the locals was sent to online platforms for those who could not attend the meeting. It was also requested for the stakeholder’s to come forward after the meeting to point out the issues at hand.

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

The local consultation was also extended where the stakeholders could join the team in a field survey showing the different issues relevant to the project. 1.8.4 Impact prediction

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

Figure 1 Project boundary and sites (reduced version)

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

Figure 2 Survey sites at M. Mulak

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

2 Description of the proposed project

This section details the description of the proponent, project locations and boundary project outline and site plan, main developments of the project and the various engineering aspects of the project. 2.1 The proponent

The proponent for the development of a senior football ground, and picnic area is the council of M. Mulaku. Acting on behalf of the government of Maldives the proponent is the responsible body for the proposed works carried out in the island.

Name of contact person Mohamed Adam email [email protected] Position Director Mobile 7707902

2.2 Project location and boundary

The island of M.Mulah, an island located on the western ridge of Mulaku atoll is one of the inhibited islands near the capital M.Mulhi . The project location is the island. The main development activities of the project are within the terrestrial island however, borrowing of sand to fill the pit holes uses sand from the marine environment therefore has a marine component to the project as well.

The specific sites and coordinates of the proposed developments covered in this EIA are, the development of a senior football ground (location 2.944796°, 73.587817°), and the development of a picnic area (location 2.949953°, 73.580913°). 2.3 The main developments of the project

There are two main developments for the project which area;

a. Football ground (location 2.944796°, 73.587817°) o 60 m wide and 117 m long. b. Picnic area (location 2.949953°, 73.580913°). o The picnic area will have development of beach huts, barbeque grills, and a changing area. 2.4 Development of the football ground

Football ground (location 2.944796°, 73.587817°). The following specific details are the minimum specifications deemed mandatory as per the specifications of the proposed project. It must be noted that the specifications do not define any international standard.

The football ground development requires;

• land clearance, • relocation of trees, • fencing of the area • backfilling of the cleared sites and, • compacting of the football ground.

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

Figure 3 Project boundary and site football ground (reduced version)

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

2.4.1 Methodology for land clearance

2.4.1.1 Land clearance.

All sites require land clearance as all the sites have dominant vegetation. The proposed land clearance will employ uprooting, and not felling. Hence the uprooting will be performed to relocate.

2.4.1.1.1 Preliminary setup.

The area necessary for clearance will be marked using GPS systems. The sites will be demarked and double checked using ATS imagery and compared with the masterplan.

2.4.1.1.2 Uprooting trees.

The undergrowth will be cleared primarily using a machete or a chainsaw. The juveniles that can be moved from hand will be relocated to desired sites. This will increase the visibility and allow easy access to the work site.

Pruning of the roots is requires prior to digging. Sufficient time should be given between preparation and final lifting for development of new roots capable of sustaining and continuing the growth of the transplanted tree. For mature trees, root pruning is usually required to be carried out at different stages with a minimum of 1 month allowed for root regeneration between cuts. The root system of a forest, woodland and open area differ greatly but is in all cases wide spread an attempt to lift such a tree without initial preparation of a root ball will result in much of the root system being left in the soil. After transplanting, the tree crown may then die back, or the tree may not be able to recover and will die eventually. In general, the root ball diameter to tree diameter ranges from 8:1 to 10:1 according to international standards, except for a palm which may require a smaller root ball. The root ball sizes should be of a diameter and depth to encompass enough of the root system as necessary for establishment. Normally the diameter of a root ball is larger than its depth which seldom exceeds 1m. There may be practical difficulties in forming a root ball of regular shape or recommended size due to site specific conditions. Consultation is required in such cases (The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, 2014)

Crown pruning is limited to minimize the risk of hazard of falling objects. And transportation of diseases and pests. In case of palm trees removal of the coconuts and clearing of pests are required.

As per the guidelines on tree transplantation (2014), the preparation of the plant in the pruning stage goes together wilt trenching of the tree. A properly trenched tree requires sufficient time to adjust. Root cuts must be clean to avoid tearing or breaking the roots. All cut roots shall be trimmed cleanly back to the healthy tissues to reduce the split and torn roots. Sharp cut ends can promote a flush of new fibrous roots, helping the trees recover faster from injuries. After setting up the root ball, it is necessary for the contractor to wrap the root ball using material such as Hessian or Gunny to remove keep the moisture inside and prevent damages and loss of sand during transportation. Once the root ball is wrapped, and chain locked, the trees are ready to be lifted and moved to the transportation vehicle. Lifting must be carried out at the base of the tree.

The hydraulic excavators will be used to lift out the tress. The excavator will be directly behind the trees to apply most leverage. Dead trees and stumps can be pulled out after clearing the stump. Care must be taken to limit the exercise to the desired work footprint. Only the marked trees and stumps will be cleared. If a private tree is harmed at any point of the time, they must be reported to the council and compensated.

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

2.4.1.1.3 Transportation of trees

Transportation of trees across the sea is with the risk of saltwater intrusion. Care must be taken to elevate the trees from the very base of the barges to ensure a buffer zone between the tree and the hull of the barge. Like the source site the recipient site must be well equipped for accepting the trees.

2.4.1.1.4 Planting of trees

The receptor site must not be highly compacted; as a mode of site preparation, the receptor site must be broken over and loosened for a sufficient radius past the planting pit. The planting pit must be provided with drainage to allow percolation of water. During pit preparation, the existing topsoil ploughed from digging should be stripped and put aside for reuse as much as possible and to avoid a distinct interface between the planting pit and the surrounding soil. The width and the final depth of a planting hole are determined by the depth and firmness of the root ball and other characteristics of the site. The soil directly beneath the root ball should be undistributed or prepared to prevent settling. In general, the depth of the planting hole shall not exceed the depth of the root ball and the sides of the planting hole should be scarified. In general, the planting hole width should follow international practice at a minimum of 1.5 times the diameter of the rootball to suit the location. After placing of the tree, preferably in the same orientation as the source site, backfill soil should be tamped firmly around the base to stabilize a tree, but the rest of the soil should be tamped only lightly, or left to settle on its own. Water should be added to the root ball and the backfill to bring the root ball to field capacity. Soaking will assist in settling the soil naturally (The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, 2014).

Figure 4 simplified diagrammatic representation of the procedure

2.4.1.1.5 Fencing and façades

The football ground and the picnic area require fencing as per the proposal. As per general practice, the fencing and façade required for the football ground is a concrete wall around the parameter and a façade

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives. of reasonable size around it. As for the picnic area the fencing will be wooden; the liking of the council will be preferred.

2.4.1.1.6 Borrowing backfill material

Backfill material is proposed from the sea. The proposed area is described in detail in the relevant sections. The backfill material will be harvested using excavators to the desired depth and dried before being used. 2.4.2 Procedural literature on uprooting and transplanting trees

Not a major bulk of literature is available on the mode of tree uprooting and clearing. The only specific study carried out for Maldives that can be accessed is by Ahmed Saleem (2018). Apart from the mentioned project most of the literature is either made for or describes the procedure in managed forests where the trees are far apart and wide with minimum undergrowth due to canopy cover and anthropological interference or for relocation and removal of trees in managed urban/ sub- urban and rural setups. The existing environment for the current project predominantly holds palm trees.

As per the Guidelines on Tree Transplanting (2014), there is no alternative to digging and uprooting if one is to consider transplantation. This procedure can remove as much as 90 percent of the absorbing roots which causes transplant shock to the tree. A transplanted tree should be able to re-establish sufficient roots to sustain itself. If the tree has poor health, the rates of survival and recovery will be low. To ensure reestablishment, trees need bigger root ball to encompass more roots to ensure adequate re-growth, as well as anchorage and stability. Transplanting may not be recommendable for situation where a reasonable root ball size cannot be achieved. Species that are normally difficult to transplant may benefit from larger root balls more than those of species that are easily moved (Watson & Himelick, 1997)

The purpose of the procedure is to minimise the loss of the trees. For the procedure to be effective, a translocation site must be available and ready. As per the works of Tomlinson (1990), juveniles and younger palms are easier to remove and transport as they have require a relatively small root ball during translocation due to their adventitious root system composed of numerous, simple, fibrous primary roots that arise independently and periodically from the root initiation zone (RIZ). It must also be noted that although it is easy to transport, many large palms do not survive transplanting or they require an inordinate length of time to reestablish. Bringing up the transplanting failure up to 30% of the bulk (Meerow, 1997). Quick transplantation and rapid regeneration of roots, minimum injury and desiccation of the trees during transit and handling, and maintaining sufficient soil moisture around the root balls after transplanting ensures successful reestablishment (Pittenger, Downer, & Hodel, 2005) 2.4.3 The receptor sites

Land clearance and uprooting of plants is a major component of the project therefore, the following section identifies the receptor sites.

As per the council the main receptor plots available on the island are shown below.

2.4.3.1 Replantation sites and new receptor sites on the island

The clearance on the main harbour is a primary location for replantation and plantation of the required two plants on the harbour. The second location proposed is the eastern riparian for planting small trees

Name of contact person Mohamed Adam email [email protected] Position Director Mobile 7707902

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

In accordance to the regulations the local council has declared within the island different areas for replantation

Replantation of removed adult trees are on the harbour in the available space filling the area to the optimum.

Figure 5 Adult plant replantation areas

Reimplantation of the juveniles are on the eastern edge of the island including the inner shoreline. The access road around the mangrove path will be used for replantation purposes.

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

Figure 6 locations for replanting on the juveniles

The council has also declared the members for the replantation effort as seen in the letter below.

They also state that the main harvest for the purpose will be form the island.

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

Figure 7 declaration for replanting

2.4.3.2 Finolhu falhu (4.121957°, 73.499523°)

The external receptor sites that the contractor proposes and is Finolhu falhu (4.121957°, 73.499523°). the island is a reclaimed islands which is now being developed as tourist resorts. The reclaimed island is ideal for transplantation due to lack of major vegetation on site. The transplantation will ensure survival of the plants that in other circumstances be sold as local timber or burned on site.

The islands at Finolhu falhu are already going through the greening process both naturally and artificially. The first main two islands have completed a component of their landscaping which includes

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

a significant component received from local islands. The other islands are ready for landscaping and greening process.

Figure 8 location of transplantation Finolhu falhDevelopment of the picnic area.

Name of contact person Saudulla Ahmed email [email protected] Position Managing Director Mobile 7771682

2.5 Development of the picnic area

The picnic area is proposed in the coordinates (2.949951°, 73.580914°). The section requires buildup of a changing room, barbeque grills, and beach huts.

The picnic area development requires;

• Beach hut developments, • Changing room build up, and • Barbeque grills.

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

Figure 9 proposed tentative layout for the picnic area. 2.5.1 Beach Hut.

A total of 9 beach huts are proposed behind the buffer zone. A beach hut will be 2m high, with a tach roof of 2m diameter. The ground cover will be cleared of small vegetation for the development of the huts. All 9 will be evenly distributed grouped in triplets. The 6 beach huts complement the barbeque grills. The next 3 are free.

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

2.5.2 Changing room

One changing house, with one room for each gender is proposed. The house has a small sitting space for queuing.

The proposed rooms are 1.5m X 2.4m in dimension. The sitting area is 1.5m by 3.048m. The whole building is 4.5m by 3.35m and 3m high.

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

2.5.2.1 Excavation and buildup

Excavation of the footprint will be manual. The foundation depth will be 1m deep. Electricity for tow light and exhaust fan will be supplied for each room. The roof will be of simple corrugated sheets with tach on top for aesthetics. 2.5.3 Barbeque grills.

The brick grills proposed are three sided with 0.6m wide, 0.6m depth and 0.76m high. The girll basin will be a 4-inch-thick concrete pad.

The foundation will be minimum with manual excavation.

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

2.5.4 Outdoor shower heads

The proposed outdoor shower heads will be attached with the palms on site and evenly distributed. 2.6 Location and size of the area

The proposed work areas and locations are shown in the map in Figure 1. The dimensions are provided under the main developments of the project. 2.7 Justification of the sites.

Figure 10 a section of the proposed developments for the island.

The sites for development can be justified using the proposed land use plan and the proposed developments of the island.

The sites of work are as per the Land Use Plan (LUP) used in the island. The LUP defines the sites and numerous proposed developments of the island. The waste management area is set by the ministry of environment; the resultant path is the path proposed for the newly proposed and existing residential area.

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

The proposed football field is in the most ideal location for easy access. The location caters for the population on the eastern side of the island. The location is also ideal as it caters for the concept of even development proposed by the island council. Its location is ideal in this regard.

The picnic area is in the optimum location due to its proximity to the residential areas. Its proximity to the proposed local tourism zone and its and its ideal lagoon area. Located in the north western direction, it is preferred over the south western zone due to the presence of a beach area, and the existence of a main road to the area. 2.8 The contractor

On behalf of the proponent, SaSe. Pvt.Ltd is the contractor who will be carrying out the work for the project.

Name of contact person Saudulla Ahmed email [email protected] Position Managing Director Mobile 7771682

2.9 Duration of work

The proponent proposes the completion of the project within 8 months after approval of the EIA. One week is assigned for demarcation and 8 months are proposed for the development work. Demobilization is assumed to take 12 days.

Table 1 Duration proposed for the project activities

The schedule proposed in Table 1 is an optimistic proposal. If the development prolongs due to unforeseen hindrances the proponent should inform the required authorities.

2.10 Labor requirements and local labor availability

The labor requirements and the activities are largely dependent on the contractor and site availability. Typical development activity requires surveyors to set out and demark the limits of the project, specialist operators, for the excavators and cranes, landing crafts and dump lorries. With a team of 2 laborers for each of the specialist vehicles. Additional, 12 general laborers are required for the activities with an overall manager and 3 work supervisors.

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

2.10.1 Machinery for the overall process

The following equipment will be mobilized specifically for the project. All the equipment for work will be provided by the contractor

# Machinery and staff Total a) 20t hydraulic excavator for land clearance 2 b) Lorry-crane for removal of material 2 c) Truck for transport of material 2 d) Landing craft 1 Name of Saudulla email [email protected] contact person Ahmed Position Managing Mobile 7771682 Director

e) Plate compactor 1 f) Concrete mixer and supply pump 1 g) Water pumps 3 h) Construction Manager 1 i) Manual labor tools ** j) Site supervisors 3 k) Specialty operators 6 l) laborers 12

2.11 Site demarcation and mobilization

The project site is in an inhibited island in a residential area. For the safety of the locals the sites should be demarked to maintain a safe distance from the work area.

• it is the proponent’s responsibility to inform the residents of the dangers of unauthorized access into the construction site during the project duration • it is the contractor’s responsibility to demark the area warning the residents of the informed danger and risks of unauthorized access to the project site. • It is the contractor’s responsibility to put up temporary boundary fences, facades or warning signs to prevent unauthorized access to the project site. • It is the contractor’s responsibility to monitor the temporary boundary fences or facades for breaches. • It is the proponents’ responsibility to ensure the removal of the temporary boundary fences or facades before accepting the completion of the project from the contractor. 2.12 Housing of temporary labor

Temporary housing will not be in the work camp. However, accommodation will be at local housing and guest houses. The work cap area is for parking, workshop, waste management and material storage. The proponent is required to request for the work camp area prior to mobilization. The most optimal work camp area is on the north eastern corner of the harbor in the coordinates 43 N, 342428.84 m E, 325723.10 m N

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

This location is ideal as it provides easy access to all the work locations of the island. The tentative components of the work camp are as given below;

A. Emergency assembly B. Workshop C. Parking area D. Oil storage E. Waste management area

Figure 11 The location of the work camp and components

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

2.13 Path of heavy machinery

Since the island has a high resident population, it is important for the contractor to set out the paths of machinery motion and movement to reduce the risk of hazard and unnecessary destruction and involuntary compaction of the roads. Figure 12 shows the best drive path for the heavy machinery. The roads are not the best for the desired work, since the south eastern side of the island has the wetland which often causes flooding in heavy rain. While moving material up and down extra care has to be taken to ensure the safety of the locals, their properties and the staff.

The path that leads to the senior football ground area is a packed residential zone, and the road floods during rainy season. Although not ideal, the football ground is proposed at the current location and access is necessary. The picnic area is the most difficult area to reach with heavy machinery. The beach path should be avoided and considered as the last option.

Figure 12 Optimal drive path advised 2.14 Emergency plan in case of spills

The proponent must ensure that the contractor has an emergency plan, an emergency coordinator and the alternative emergency coordinator. 2.14.1 Overall emergency plan

The overall emergency plan must be site specific and drafted upon by the contractor and the proponent taking into account the features of the island. The emergency plan must be understood and followed by all staff. A typical emergency plan must include the following.

• The emergency plan should be followed and executed without delay in case of an emergency • All staff must learn the basis of the emergency plan. • Assembly points must be decided prior to mobilization • Points of relief must be equipped with medical kits and fire safety kits • Spill kits must be installed near the storage sites and in easily accessible areas. • Alarms must be installed and tested

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• Informed drills must be carried out at a schedule. • All staff must be informed that they could call in an alarm. • All emergency coordinators should be trained well with the alternative. • In case of an emergency the point of reference must be the coordinator or the alternative. • In case of an emergency, the emergency coordinator or the alternative must be informed primarily • All staff must strictly follow the instructions of the emergency coordinator. • Authorities must be informed by the coordinator or the alternative

The contractor is required to take the following measures in order to ensure minimal pollution in case of a spill.

• Use serviced machinery to reduce toxic emissions • Service the machines in use during the work process. • Keep spill kits on the island and portable spill kits on the machines • Bund all necessary lubricants and oils stored on site. 2.15 Backfill material and source

The land clearance component of the activity will require backfill for the football area. Due to the geography of the island the backfill cannot be sourced from the island lagoon area. There are no options for sourcing backfilling material from the terrestrial land. The only available sources for backfilling are 2.15.1 Backfill source.

The borrow material for the project is proposed to be sourced from another development on the island. Details of the development follows;

2.15.1.1 Project details

The proposed backfill sand source is from the slipway approved for the island in 2012 by the company Shady wood and metal works pvt Ltd. The company had developed the channel for the slipway and has yet to develop the mini harbor for the slipway.

2.15.1.2 Status of the development

The development was the approved through the environmental impact assessment for the development of a slipway in M. Mulah. The first phase of the development was completed, a section of the development remains.

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Figure 13 Proposed slipway layout (ReefTAC Maldives Pvt Ltd, 2012)

Figure 14 Current slipway structure, ATS image

2.15.1.3 Locations of excavation.

The proposed locations for the excavation is the approved slipway zone for the development. The details of the area are given in the existing environment.

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2.15.1.4 Volume of sand from each plot.

From the plot, taking the bathymetry into account, the it is calculated that from the footprint 8627.61 CMS can be borrowed.

2.15.1.5 Stockpiling .

Figure 15 areas proposed for stockpiling

2.16 Description of safety measures during construction.

The proposed project site is on an inhibited island. The proponent and the contractor are responsible for the safety of the locals, the staff, and visitors; health and safety rules must be followed strictly.

• The project site and the work area must be fenced. • The proponent and the contractor will ensure that all the supervisors are trained and qualified to identify, report, response to, and mitigate any health code violation on site.

• The proponent, contractor and other supervisory bodies will ensure all the health and safety procedures are followed while in the project site. • All the precautions and steps will be taken to ensure the safety of the employees. Safety gear will be worn all the time.

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• The proponent must ensure that the contractor provides numerous first aid kits on site. This is of the uttermost importance as the island has a health center and the closet hospital is at best 5 minutes away in the atoll capital. • The proponent must ensure that the contractor trains sufficient number of staffs in basic first aid drills both terrestrial and marine. Hence making these staff available throughout the project work hours while setting the duty roster. • The proponent must ensure that the contractor reports all medical emergencies to the hospital. • If the use of the equipment requires licenses or special permits, the contractor should ensure the staff are licensed. • All tools and equipment will be handled by competent staff. • All staff must be trained to follow the emergency plan • Health checks and safety checks will be administered before commencement of work. • All project activities will be carried out in the presence of a qualified supervisor. • The staff will be trained in fire extinguishing drills and appropriate fire extinguishing equipment will be placed at easily accessible points. • Flammable material if stored on site, will be stored at site appropriately. • Any tools stored on site will be stored appropriately. • Oils, grease and lubricants will be stored as specified above

2.17 Utilities

Due to the location of the project site and the scale of the project all utilities will be requested from the service provider.

2.18 Summary of Project Inputs and Outputs

The overall material inputs and the overall material outputs of the development are given in the Table 2 and

Table 3 respectively.

Table 2: Major Project Inputs

Input resources Source/ Type Obtained by Construction worker A mix of local and foreign Contractor’s staff and procured through announcements, etc Construction material Cement, gravel , river sand Contractors’ material. Water supply during A mix of bottled and filtered Purchased form local shops and construction tap water ( FENAKA outlet ) by registering for a water line form the local utilities provider Machinery • 20t hydraulic excavator Contractor’s machinery or for land management locally available machinery for • Lorry and crane for hire removal of material • Truck for transport of material • Plate compactor

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• Concrete mixer and supply pump • Water pumps Maintenance material Various maintenance material Contractor’s own, purchased and tools required for the locally or imported. project activities. Food and accommodation Accommodation in local Procured through accomodation, and food announcements, etc through contractor’s staff Firefighting gear Fire extinguishers Contractor’s equipment Fuel All forms of fuel Local suppliers Telecommunication Mobile phones, hand held Contractor’s equipment, radio and internet facilities personal, etc. Food and beverage bottles PET bottles, glass bottles, Contractor’s equipment packaging, waste, plastic bags, and various frozen, packaged, and fresh food.

Table 3: Major Project Outputs

Products and waste Anticipated Method of disposal materials quantities Bio waste Large Sent to use as agricultural fertilizers. quantities Construction waster Small If plastic, fibre and metal collected and quantities sent to the waste collection site. Waste oil Small Barrelled and sent to the waste collection quantities site. Hazardous waste material Small Barrelled and sent to the waste collection quantities site. Noise Only localised Inevitable noise pollution of the use of heavy missionary Food waste Small Collected and sent to the waste collection quantities site. Plastic and packaging wastes Small Collected and sent to the waste collection quantities site.

2.19 Demobilisation

The actual demobilisation will be negotiated between the contractor and proponent. The consultant advises a phased-out demobilisation during the last phase of the project.

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2.20 Proof of finances

As per the council, referring to the letter/declaration referenced 364-B/203/2019/5, the council will bear the cost of all developments.

Name of contact person Mohamed Adam email [email protected] Position Director Mobile 7707902

Figure 16 Declaration of finances

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3 Description of the environment 3.1 Introduction

This section assembles, evaluates, and presents the environmental baseline relevant to the project. The section includes, detailed methodologies of the study with the findings. To describe the existing environment, the report sub divides environment to physical, biological, and social. Wherein, the existing physical environment geology and geomorphology, hydrography/hydrodynamics, ecology, socio-economic environment, and hazard vulnerability is further described. 3.2 Study area and Survey Locations

Details of the study area and survey locations are given in Project location and boundary. After analyzing the project area, some survey sites were pre-selected while others were selected upon site visit after consulting with the stakeholders and locals. 3.3 Methodology

The components of the existing environment were divided to climate, ecology and socio-economic environment. The baseline study was carried out as per the standard scientific methods. special attention was given to the marine and terrestrial environment of the project area, as these components are likely to have the most significant environmental impacts. The different methodologies used in assessing the existing environment are given below. 3.3.1 Physical Environment

The physical environment data was collected using the available literature, secondary data and information available and onsite recordings. As for the historical data, as Meemu atoll does not have a weather station on site or in atoll, the report depended largely on available secondary data form nearby atolls. 3.3.2 Natural and Biological Environment

The geological data and the seasonal geological patterns were collected on site, and using secondary data available. 3.3.3 Socio-economic environment

The socioeconomic environment of the island was collected using the available literature, secondary information and interviews. 3.4 Physical Environment 3.4.1 Climate

3.4.1.1 General Climate

A typical tropical monsoon climate is enjoyed throughout the year in Maldives. The south-west monsoon occurs between mid-May to November and the north-east occurs between January to March. The North-East monsoon is dryer than the South West Monsoon. The transition period of southwest monsoon occurs between March and April while that of northeast monsoon occurs from October to November (Table 4). The temperature ranges from 27 till 31°C daily, where the maximum mean dry

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temperature is 30.4°C and minimum mean dry temperature is 25.7°C. (Meteorology, 2006). Rainfall patterns in the Maldives is dictated by the Indian ocean Monsoons. The rainfall averages at 2,124 mm annually where the south receives more rain than the north.

Table 4 months and the seasons associated with them

Season Dhivehi name Month NE-Monsoon Iruvai December NE-Monsoon Iruvai January NE-Monsoon Iruvai February Transition period 1 Hulhangu Halha March Transition period 1 Hulhangu Halha April SW-Monsoon Hulhangu May SW-Monsoon Hulhangu June SW-Monsoon Hulhangu July SW-Monsoon Hulhangu August SW-Monsoon Hulhangu September Transition period 2 Iruvai Halha October Transition period 2 Iruvai Halha November The project area M.Mulah, falls in the general climate as the rest of the Maldives with minute differences which will be discussed in this section.

3.4.1.2 Temperature

The general temperature of Maldives does not show large fluctuation when it come to the difference between day, night and seasons; due to the abovementioned monsoon climate and the tropical position of the chain of islands. Furthermore, the flat topography and a lack of high risen earth ensures a consistent temperature throughout.

The average maximum temperature from 1992 till 2017 ranged between 30.54 till 31.94°C. The average minimum temperature from the same timeline ranged from 24.86 till 26.08°C(Figure 17, Figure 18). The general annual temperature ranges approximately around 31°C during daytime to 26.4°C during night time in Maldives. The average maximum recorded temperature for the Maldives on 2018 is 31.2°C. and the average minimum recorded temperature for the Maldives on 2018 was 25.5°C. As always, average maximum and minimum temperature of 2018 shows an increase during the transition period to south west monsoon (Figure 19 and Figure 20). The daily mean temperature 2018 shown in Figure 21 shows the same rise in temperature while ranging between 28.13 and 29.69°C. The daily mean temperature form January 2019 till may shows the same general pattern with a slight increase ranging between 28.43 till 30.34°C .

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Figure 17 Average Max Temperature 2018 ( (Maldives Meteorological Service, 2019))

Figure 18 Average Min Temperature 2018( (Maldives Meteorological Service, 2019))

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Figure 19 Average Max Temperature 2018( (National Bureau of Statitics , 2019))

Figure 20 Average Min Temperature 2018 ( (National Bureau of Statitics , 2019))

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Figure 21 Daily mean temperature 2018 (Maldives Meteorological Service, 2019))

Figure 22 Daily mean temperature 2019, Jan till May (Maldives Meteorological Service, 2019))

The general temperature of different locations show a considerable difference location wise. The closest weather station to the project site is at Th.Buruni. The following charts shows the temperature at Th Buruni.

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Figure 23 Daily mean temperature at Th.Bueuni 2019

Figure 24 Mean Temperature 2019

During the sit visit, the temperature on site were between 30.0 to 30.8°C

3.4.1.3 Rainfall

The rain ranges in different parts of the Maldives depending on the monsoonal cycles. The south west monsoon; wet season is from mid-May to November where rapid rain in large quantities are expected. As per the National Bureau of Statitics, ( Figure 25) on 2018, Laamu, Gaafu and Seenu had the more rain in comparison to the north. The average total rainfall throughout all the collection points in 2018 ranged between 38.1 to 367.9 mm.

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Figure 25 Average rainfall throughout 2018 from Hanimaadhoo till Gan, with overall average (National Bureau of Statitics , 2019))

Figure 26 Daily rainfall Buruni 2019

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Figure 27 Monthly Average rainfall for Buruni 2019

The mean rainfall for the closest weather station to site sows that in the recorded maximum rainfall is on May 27 2019 at 92.5mm. The maximum recorded average monthly rainfall is at April 2019.

3.4.1.4 Wind

Located in the equatorial region of the Indian Ocean, Maldives enjoys a generally mild monsoon. However, winds do pick up to storms and line squalls, but the area is generally a cyclone fee area. The monsoon climate is driven by the atmospheric pressure differences that arise as a result of rapid warming or cooling of the Tibetan Plateau relative to the Indian Ocean (Hastenrath, 1991; Fein & P, 1987). As per the observations of NASEER, 2003, the Maldivians monsoon patterns show consistency for the past two decades. His analysis shows that the wind speed is usually higher on the months May till October in central Maldives while the monsoon is significantly stronger in the central and the northern region in comparison to the south.

3.4.1.5 Risk of hurricanes and storm surges

Like most islands in Maldives, M.Mulah is a low lying island. As recorded in the past, the island is vulnerable to storm surges or flooding. The risk is higher during the south western monsoon as weather conditions can get rough at the south eastern and western side of the island. 3.4.2 Geology and geomorphology

3.4.2.1 Island Geomorphology

The shoreline data was available from 2005 to 2018 through secondary sources and 2019 through ATS imagery. The following section discuss the shorelines.

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3.4.2.1.1 7/22/2005

The shoreline data of 2005 shows that the northern jetty exists. The northern side was used as the mooring area. The beach can be seen around the island with a considerable sediment bank on the north east side. A channel can be seen near the slipway area.

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3.4.2.1.2 2/25/2011

The shoreline data of 2011 shows the development of the harbour. The sediment budget shows depletion on the southern side and eastern side of the island. On the northern edge of the island facing the north and south sediment accretion is observed. On the south facing sand bank primary vegetation above the tip suggests the tip has been there for some time. This also shows the impact of the reclamation for the harbour.

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3.4.2.1.3 1/24/2014

2014 shows the slipway under construction. The reclamation for the slipway area looks complete with a slight shift of the south facing northern sand bank to the north.

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3.4.2.1.4 5/30/2016

2016 shows a general setting of the slipway area. The eastern shoreline shows a general increase while the bulk of the sediment budget is retained on the north eastern beach of the island.

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3.4.2.1.5 9/5/2019

In comparison, 2019 shows considerable erosion on the east facing beach section of the island with considerable loss of shoreline vegetation. The northern side of the island retains most of the sediment.

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3.4.2.1.6 All shorelines 2005 to 2019

The development of the harbour seems to have promoted erosion on the southern tip of the island. The northern tip of the island retains sand where the northern tip replenishes the north facing beach of the island. Southern side show erosion.

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3.4.2.2 Bathymetry

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The bathymetry of the area shows that towards the shoreline, the bottom of the dredge area is at an elevation of -0.1 to -0.6m below MSL. Moving towards the south, the area deepens to reach -1.8m below MSL at the un-dredged region and at the dredged region reaches depths of -2.7 at the dredged region.

3.4.2.3 Profiles

Profiles were taken from four strategic locations from the proposed project borrow site and picnic area.

The following sections discusses the profiles taken for the project sites

3.4.2.4 Profile 1

Profile I shows that the elevation of the beach at the tree line is 2.0 m above MSL. The main berm line of the beach can be seen approximately 3.4m form the tree line. From the berm line the beach slopes down 5.8m further to reach MSL.

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3.4.2.5 Profile 2

From the treeline the beach starts at an elevation of 1.56m above MSL sloping down to reach MSL approximately 2.48m from origin.

3.4.2.6 Profile 3

Profile 3 shows that the beach starts form 2.7m above MSL form the treeline. The beach slopes down 4.12m to reach the berm line. Which then slopes down further 8.2m to reach MSL.

3.4.2.7 Profile 4

Profile 4 shows that the beach starts at approximately 2.56m above MSl and slopes 4.8m to reach the main berm line. The beach further slopes down 2.1m to reach MSL.

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3.4.3 Hydrography/hydrodynamics of the project site

There are 1200 naturally formed coralline low laying islands in Maldives and cays where in except for the island of Fuvahmulah is a part of a larger atoll. The islands are classified into 25 atolls. The islands are elevated steeply from the surrounding sea floor of 2500-3000m deep to the east and 2800 – 4200m deep to the west. The sea in between the atolls are around 200m deep (Naseer & Hatcher, 2000).

It is hypothesised that Maldives lies on a volcanic basement of depth 2000 m that pore out between Laccadives and Chagos Band and during Cretaceous and early Cenozoic times moved northward to form a submarine ridge. It is believed the islands have been exposed to 27 glacial sea level cycles with eustatic sea level fluctuating by more than 120 m at various times resulting in many “karst-induced” coral reef formations and geomorphological structures. (Rudie & Tim, 2014). Hydrography/hydrodynamics of the project site

3.4.3.1 Tides

The tides of the Maldives (Table 5) are generally mixed and semi-diurnal. Neap and spring tides are approximately 0.3m and 1.0m respectively. In the central Atolls, maximum spring tide range is 1.1m. A seasonal mean sea level fluctuation in reginal mean sea level with an increase of about 0.1m during February to April and a decrease of 0.1m during September to November can be seen. Like in many Atolls semidiurnal tides are experienced in the proposed project site. The tides are largely based on the shape, depth and location of the site.

Table 5 Tide levels, Maldives

Tide level (Referred to MSL) Highest Astronomical Tide (HAT) +0.64 Mean Higher High Water (MHHW) +0.34 Mean Lower High Water (MLHW) +0.14 Mean Sea Level (MSL) 0.00 Mean Higher Low Water (MHLW) -0.16 Mean Lower Low Water (MHLW) -0.36 Lowest Astronomical Tide (LAT) -0.56 Highest Astronomical Tide (HAT) +0.64 Mean Higher High Water (MHHW) +0.34 Mean Lower High Water (MLHW) +0.14 The motion of the moon and the sun is reflected in the astronomical tides with a range of periodicities. 0.64m is the highest astronomical tide recorded above the MSL and -0.56m was the lowest astronomical tide recorded below MSL. Maldives has a general variation of 1.2m from the lowest to the highest tide. At low tide the movement of water is very low and is an ideal time to conduct marine development works in general.

3.4.3.2 Currents

The systems that affect the sea around the Maldives are, oceanic currents, tidal currents, wind induced, and wave induced currents. the geography, and geology of the Maldives in the Indian ocean ensures a strong constant flow of water through the atolls. Towards the equator in the Arabian sea, the winds become indicative of the ocean surface currents. Thus, during monsoon the wind become a major factor affecting current velocity and direction. Hence, wind induced currents can dominate. From January to March, the westerly flowing currents tend to dominate and from May to November easterly currents tend to dominate. In April and December, the changes in the current flow of patterns occur.

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The tidal currents are the horizontal water movement associated with the vertical movements of the rise and fall of the tide. The tidal currents are westward in ebb and eastward in flood.

Localised to the project site, the wave induced currents form an important factor effecting the current.

The drogue data shows that at the time of measurement, the currents were north western on the southern shore and south eastern on the northern shore. The longshore currents of the islands usually shape and form the islands moving sediments.

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Figure 28 Current data on sight

3.4.3.3 Waves

Two monsoon periods govern the swell and wind waves experienced in the Maldives. The swells and wind waves experienced by the Maldives are conditioned by the prevailing biannual monsoon wind directions, and are typically strongest during April – July in the southwest monsoon period. During this season, swells generated north of the equator with heights of 2- 3m with periods of 18-20 seconds have

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3.4.3.4 Ground water quality

Ground water quality checks were performed checking the temperature, pH, conductivity, TDS, and TPH of the water.

The water was analyzed using probes on site and were tested in the lab at Male’ Water and Sewerage Company (MWSC). The sites of ground water analysis are presented in Figure 2. The overall conditions are presented in Table 6

Table 6 Ground water quality of the sites as per the MWSC tests

Sample number Physical appearance Conductivity (µS/cm) pH TDS (mg/L) TPH (mg/L)

MUW 3 Control Clear with particles 544 7.52 272 0.05

MUW 1 Clear with particles 1274 7.66 637 0.42

MUW 2 Clear with particles 907 7.31 454 0.06

MUW 4 Yellow with particles 24100 7.10 12070 0.16

Wet land S1 Pale yellow with particles 793 7.95 397 0.54

Table 7Probe readings on site

SITE Temp (°F)

muw3 86.42563

muw1 88.95641

muw2 87.38617

muw4 80.17037

Wet land S1 84.36849

3.4.3.5 Marine water quality

Slat water was tested from the borrow sites and the alternative borrow sites.

Table 8 Probe reading Marine sites

Cond Sp Sal nLFCond TDS ODO ODO ODO Sigma- Sigma ODO Temp (µS/cm) Cond (psu) (µS/cm) (mg/L) (% (mg/L) (% T (s t) (s) (% (°F) (µS/cm) Sat) Local) LocalB)

S1 59522.1 55026.1 36.34 54531.8 35767 91.1 5.71 91.1 23 23 91.5 84.7

S2 59542.4 55037.3 36.34 54541.8 35774 90.8 5.69 90.9 23 23 91.2 84.2

AS3 59213 55253.7 36.52 54821.4 35915 95.3 6.02 95.4 23.3 23.3 95.7 83.8

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3.5 Ecology

To provide a better description of the environment, as a part of the literature review governmental databases and local knowledge was reviewed and described. The detail study of the site that followed focused on gathering site specific data and the data for the areas that fall under the footprint of the proposed project location, proposed alternative sites, and surrounding impact zone for both the sites. 3.5.1 Wetland area of the island.

The island is a large island with one major depression on the island which consequently holds the wetland area. The protected area has an approximate area of 48749.37m2. The exact boundary of the mangrove area was demarked using a GARMIN 78s GPS system. The surveyor walked through the area to mark the boundary of the wetland area. The wetland area and layers can be seen in Figure 29.

Figure 29 The mangrove area with the layers marked separately. The area provided in the chart shows the subtracted mangrove footprint area and the subtracted foot path surrounding the mangrove footprint area. (Reduced map)

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3.5.1.1 Features of the wetland area

The wetland area is surrounded by the island and does not have a sea water inlet point. The area which has an overall footprint area of 58430.18m2 has a strong vegetation line surrounding the mangrove. On the inner riparian under the canopy pools can be seen isolated with water. Similarly, the areas show numerous mud depressions throughout. The map on Figure 29 shows the different sections of the mangrove area surveyed. The line in red colour demarks the footpath surrounding the mangrove area. For the most part, the footpath shows signs of farming attempts of the locals to harvest banana and yam. At points of access at the southern tip of the island, the footpath has little to no buffer zone before the wet zone and cuts across the wet zone. It must also be noted that the lack of a buffer in some cases is due to the foot path being an old road which predates protection of the mangrove areas. The footpath seems to be elevated form the mangrove area, according to the accompanying guides, the footpath does not flood during rainy season. However, it is our assumption that in the south of the island, the footpath will flood but may drain faster than the mud path.

Figure 30 A photo from the foot path on the northern side of the mangrove footprint.

The inner section marked in orange is the mangrove area. The footprint of the section is approximately 52573.48m2 . The area does not have a definite access road, and is distinguished by large vegetation and a waterbody that is mostly filled with leaf matter, and topsoil or sediment that sinks to about 0.5m deep. The vegetation of the area is mostly mixed dominated by screw pines and coconut palms.

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Figure 31 inside the mangrove area; the wet path.

Figure 32 inside the mangrove area wet path

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Through the mangrove area road leads to the open area. The open area is a unique feature of the island. Mostly consisting of low levels of water covered with vines that spread across the entire area the footprint of the area is approximately 3824.11m2. The rare path taken while traversing through the mangrove is seen exposed as a footpath of approximately 354.28m2. . The inner area is elevated due to the abovementioned woody vines.

Figure 33 Inner mangrove area opening

According to the locals the area is known for its mud baths. However, in the recent years the usage of the area has declined and as a result has led to an overgrowth of the vines on location. During the visit, the council staff guiding the team commented that the existing gap is smaller in comparison to the recent past.

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Figure 34 Known for its mud baths, the area has shrunk is size due to the spread of vines

The plant cover of the open area was calculated using the data and ATS images which comes up to approximately 91.5% of the entire area.

3.5.1.2 Tree survey

On location, numerous mangrove plants1, coconut palms, screw pines, hard wood trees, ferns and vines were seen. Vines and ferns dominated the centre area smothering any woody plants. As a result the periphery contains a mix of coconut palms, screw pines and woody trees.

7 transects 2Om long were taken at the GPS coordinates provided in Table 9. Using a hand held GPS, the transect paths were georeferenced.

Table 9 GPS coordinates of the tree transects

Site Start point End Point T1 43 N, 342902.81 m E, 325457.43 m N 43 N, 342921.44 m E, 325462.58 m N T2 43 N, 342964.78 m E, 325531.08 m N 43 N, 342973.25 m E, 325516.12 m N T3 43 N, 342928.58 m E, 325608.36 m N 43 N, 342922.21 m E, 325596.52 m N T4 43 N, 343040.41 m E, 325304.65 m N 43 N, 343050.46 m E, 325292.28 m N T5 43 N,343054.83 m E, 325455.89 m N 43 N, 343071.25 m E, 325466.98 m N T6 43 N, 342964.78 m E, 325531.08 m N 43 N, 342973.25 m E, 325516.12 m N T7 43 N, 342997.84 m E, 325507.55 m N 43 N, 343001.09 m E, 325495.23 m N

1 Form the initial interview with the locals it we were informed that at least two types of mangroves would be spotted Bruguiera cylindrica and Ceriops tagal. However, after the survey we report that our transects did not report Ceriops tagal.or anyother form of mangrove apart form Bruguiera cylindrica. This mention here is not to challenge the claim of the locals; just a clarification for interested parties.

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

Transect 1 to 5 were taken in the forest area surrounding the mangrove opening. Except for transect 1 and 5, other were muddy and shows no signs of recent anthropological influence. At 1 and 5 trash either washed down from the nearby roads opening or from the locals who frequent the area can be seen. Transect 6 and seven were open spaces with smothered woody trees and a platform of vines elevating the team from the muddy ground. The area had little to no signs of trash except for the exposed waterbodies that had different types of plastic wrappers disposed.

Table 10 Overall tally of the transects and composition of the area

Tree T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 T7 Bruguiera cylindrica 3 2 2 2 1 0 0 Cocos nucifera I 1 5 5 2 5 0 0 Pandanus odorifer (Forssk.) Kuntze 4 0 5 7 0 0 0 Bruguiera cylindrica ju 7 7 2 3 1 0 0 Talipariti tiliaceum 0 0 0 0 0 7 6 Tropical vine 1 0 0 0 0 0 4 9 NONE 5 6 6 4 7 0 0 Nephrolepis hirsutula (G.Frost.) C. Presl 0 0 0 0 6 0 0 Tropical vine 2 0 0 0 0 0 6 2 % Bruguiera cylindrica 15.0 10.0 10.0 11.1 5.0 0.0 0.0 Cocos nucifera I 5.0 25.0 25.0 11.1 25.0 0.0 0.0 Pandanus odorifer (Forssk.) Kuntze 20.0 0.0 25.0 38.9 0.0 0.0 0.0 Bruguiera cylindrica ju 35.0 35.0 10.0 16.7 5.0 0.0 0.0 Talipariti tiliaceum 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 41.2 35.3 Tropical vine 1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 23.5 52.9 NONE 25.0 30.0 30.0 22.2 35.0 0.0 0.0 Nephrolepis hirsutula (G.Frost.) C. Presl 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 30.0 0.0 0.0 Tropical vine 2 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 35.3 11.8

Transect one was a closed canopy area with Pandanus odorifer (Forssk.) Kuntze and Bruguiera cylindrica, dominating at 20%, and 15% respectively followed by Cocos nucifera I at 5% as the main plant form. Consequently the under cover ensured the suppression of numerous juveniles the majority. Bruguiera cylindrica, and Pandanus odorifer (Forssk.) Kuntze younglings unable to qualify for the 0.5m height line which is marked as NONE. The qualifying juvenile Bruguiera cylindrica juveniles for the transect covered 35% of the area. Although not on the transect, the site had clusters of ferns scattered throughout the area.

Similar to transect one, transect two was muddy and silty, the section was dominated by Cocos nucifera and Bruguiera cylindrica at 25% and 10% respectively. The NONE category was dominated by Bruguiera cylindrica and Adenanthera pavonina I juveniles below the 0.5m height line. The qualified juveniles were Bruguiera cylindrica ju at 35%. It must be noted that the site had both Adenanthera pavonina I and Pandanus odorifer (Forssk.) Kuntze on site, but not on the transect.

Transect three was less muddy consequently with Cocos nucifera I and Pandanus odorifer (Forssk.) Kuntze dominating at 25%. This was followed by 2 large . Bruguiera cylindrica trees which as a percentage comes up to 10% of the transect and from the undergrowth, only 10% of the juvenile Bruguiera cylindrica qualified to be represented on the transect belt. The rest covered 30% of the transect does not qualify to be recorded.

Transect four is predominantly Pandanus odorifer (Forssk.) Kuntze covering 38.9% of the transect, followed by 11% of Bruguiera cylindrica and 11% of Cocos nucifera I. Combination of Pandanus

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives. odorifer (Forssk.) Kuntze and Bruguiera cylindrica ensured a closed canopy cover. This also ensured 16% of juvenile Bruguiera cylindrica and 35% of juveniles that did not qualify the tally.

Transect five was taken near a road path. 25% of the section was Cocos nucifera I followed by 5% of Bruguiera cylindrica and 5% of Bruguiera cylindrica juveniles. Unqualifies juveniles covered 35% of the transect and interestingly on this transect 30% of the ground cover that did not qualify was Nephrolepis hirsutula (G.Frost.) C. Presl.

Another interesting feature of this section was the distribution of Terminalia catappa.l juveniles after the end of the transect which we noticed carpeting the rest of the Cocos nucifera I. cluster. There was no adult Terminalia catappa.l in the area of the cluster. However, up the road at a slight elevation was one that could have been one.

Site T6 and T7 was a mix of Talipariti tiliaceum, and two types of vines labelled Tropical vine 1and Tropical vine 2. As for clarifications of the vines, we have requested the concerned authorities for identification 3.5.2 Proposed Football area

3.5.2.1 General description

This piece of community forest best described as a section of a climax community dominated by Cocos nucifera I. with full canopy cover seen throughout the section had not gone through any development in the past. The area has seedlings and shrubs carpeting the bottom layer together with ferns (Nephrolepis hirsutula (G.Frost.) C. Presl).

Two roads pass through either ends of the plot. One leads to the mangrove area and the other leads to a path around the mangrove area. On both roads, signs of management can be seen which extends into the core of the plot. The plot therefore, can be identified as a managed piece of forest plot.

There are no signs of recent trash in the plot. However, aged plastic debris can be spotted rarely even at the core of the plot.

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

3.5.2.2 Tree survey

Figure 35 Ats Image for tree count (reduced)

Using the ATS imagery we were able to detect and count 139 trees. This comes with the limitation of canopy cover.

On site tree survey shows that the work footprint area has a total of 150 significant trees of which 146 are Cocos nucifera I and 3 are Artocarpus altilis and one Adenanthera pavonia L tree. The section of interest is a canopy covered, semi managed,

Table 11 General description and count

Tree Categories Number of trees Coconut palms Cocos nucifera I 146 Breadfruit Artocarpus altilis 3 Circassian Adenanthera pavonia L 1 Table 12 Status of the plants in the plot

Category No of trees Local 0 Government 150 Unidentified 0 The labels and records in the island show that the plot belongs to the council.

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

Table 13 Girth and species of plant (random sampling)

Random sample Girth/ m Type of plant 1 1.38 Cocos nucifera I 2 1.35 Cocos nucifera I 3 1.3 Cocos nucifera I 4 1.45 Cocos nucifera I 5 1.5 Cocos nucifera I 6 1.3 Cocos nucifera I 7 1.6 Cocos nucifera I 8 1.63 Cocos nucifera I 9 1.2 Cocos nucifera I 10 1.75 Cocos nucifera I

Figure 36 Distribution of plants according to the size range

Table 14 Size range distribution data

Size range 0- 0.2- 0.4- 0.6- 0.8- 0.1- 1.2- 1.4- 1.6- 1.8- 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1.0 1.2 1.4 1.6 1.8 2.0 Frequency 0 0 0 0 0 1 4 3 2 0

The size among the random samples did not vary as much as expected due to one species being sampled throughout. Only sample number 10 at a girth of 1.75m stood out. The girth distribution shows 4 samples occupies the girth range of 1.2 to 1.4m, followed by 3 samples the girth range of 1.4 to 1.6m, followed by 2 samples 1.6 to 1.8m and finally 1 sample at the girth range of 0.1 to 1.2m

This is expected in a canopy covered tropical semi managed woodland where the dominating old plants are of generally the same size with just slight variations. 3.5.3 Picnic area

3.5.3.1 General description

This plot can be described as a small section of the shoreline forest vegetation that mixes with the island vegetation. The lack of typical shoreline vegetation line or defence such as Scaevola taccada (Gaertn.)

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

Roxb or Pemphis acidula J.R.Forst. & G. Forst is noteworthy. Road are on both sides of the plot. Hence, the site is infiltrated on all the sides. The section has Casuarina equisetifolia.I in the core of the plot which are signs of anthropological infiltration and use in the past. Trash both oceanic and local can be seen throughout the plot. Here, only the plants that fall under the footprint will be relocated.

3.5.3.2 Tree survey

Figure 37 ATS Tree count Sports area ( reduced )

ATS images of the tree count in the sports are shows that the area has a total of 74 trees. As this method proves impossible to count the trees under the canopy cover, on site survey was carried out.

On site tree survey shows that there are 6 different confirmed species in the area among which; 177 are of the species Cocos nucifera I, 10 Talipariti tiliaceum T, 5 Calophyllum inophyllum, 2 Terminalia catappa.l, and 3 Casuarina equisetifolia.I

Table 15 General description and count

Tree Categories Type of plant Number of trees

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

Coconut palms Cocos nucifera I 177 Indian Almond Terminalia catappa.l 2 Oil nut tree Calophyllum inophyllum 5 Sea hibiscus Talipariti tiliaceum T 10 Beefwood Tree Casuarina equisetifolia.I 3 Total 197 Table 16 Status of the plants in the plot

Category No of trees Local 28 Government 1 Unidentified 97 The labels and records show that the 28 plants are local one is the councils and 97 plants have yet to be claimed.

Table 17 Girth and Species of plants ( random sampling)

Random sample Girth/m Type of plant 1 1.36 Cocos nucifera I 2 1.85 Cocos nucifera I 3 1.55 Cocos nucifera I 4 1.67 Cocos nucifera I 5 1.2 Cocos nucifera I 6 1.5 Talipariti tiliaceum T 7 1.3 Talipariti tiliaceum T 8 1.3 Talipariti tiliaceum T 9 1.3 Talipariti tiliaceum T 10 1.3 Talipariti tiliaceum T 11 1.3 Talipariti tiliaceum T 12 0.4 Talipariti tiliaceum T 13 0.4 Talipariti tiliaceum T 14 0.4 Talipariti tiliaceum T 15 1.77 Talipariti tiliaceum T 16 0.8 Calophyllum inophyllum 17 1.1 Calophyllum inophyllum 18 1.1 Calophyllum inophyllum 19 1.1 Calophyllum inophyllum 20 1.7 Calophyllum inophyllum 21 0.5 Terminalia catappa.l 22 0.7 Terminalia catappa.l 23 1.9 Casuarina equisetifolia.I 24 2.1 Casuarina equisetifolia.I 25 0.56 Casuarina equisetifolia.I 26 1.63 Cocos nucifera I 27 1.65 Cocos nucifera I 28 1.2 Cocos nucifera I 29 1.23 Cocos nucifera I

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

Figure 38 Distribution of plants according to size range

Table 18 Size range distribution data

Size range 0- 0.2- 0.4- 0.6- 0.8- 0.1- 1.2- 1.4- 1.6- 1.8- 2.0- 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1.0 1.2 1.4 1.6 1.8 2.0 more

Frequency 0 3 2 2 0 5 7 2 5 2 1

With the variation of the species in the plot, the size varied drastically. The highest occupied girth range was 7 plants at 1.2 to 1.6m. Uniform distribution of sizes can be seen as expected in such an infiltrated plots.

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

3.5.4 Backfill borrow area.

3.5.4.1 Slipway area

The slipway area has a 5378 sqm area on the south western side of the island.

Figure 39 overall view of the slipway area

The plot has a barrier wall ( the reclaimed zone ) acting as a groyne retaining the beach and the elevation of the slipway beach area.

Figure 40 barrier on the slipway

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

3.5.4.2 Terrestrial environment

The general plot has been cleared of the vegetation and maintained except for 7 palms and 2 trees. The trees in the area.

Figure 41 tree count of the slip way area

Figure 42 General conditions of the terrestrial area

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

3.5.4.3 Marine environment of the borrow site

3.5.4.3.1 Benthic T1

The marine environment was surveyed using the reef check line transect protocol.

The data shows that the area is dominated by sand, rock and rubble. The HC percentage of the area is 4%. With mostly massive corals on site.

3.5.4.3.2 Benthic T2

The survey data shows that the mean coral cover of the area is 14% . the RKC percentage is 6%. the are is dominated by rocks and rubble at 39 and 32%. Sand percentage for the area is 7%.

A considerable amount of trash was observed in the area.

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

3.5.4.3.3 Benthic T3

The HC percentage of the area is 5% and the RKC % matches it. RC dominates the area at 38% and DC follows at 29% followed by RB at 20%.

The recently killed coral in the area seems to have been killed partially due to bleaching and anthropological activities.

Figure 43 General conditions on the borrow site

3.5.4.3.4 Fish count

The following shows the percentage fish encountered in the survey

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

Fish encountered % 100

% Transect % 40

0 T1% T2% T3% TA3% Muraenidae 0 0 1.219512195 0 Carangidae 0 2.380952381 0 0 Acanthuridae 0 14.28571429 19.51219512 0 Labridae 4.545454545 13.0952381 15.85365854 0 Pomacentridae 27.27272727 22.61904762 23.17073171 76.92307692 Scorpaenidae 4.545454545 0 0 0 Serranidae 0 1.19047619 3.658536585 0 Chaetodontidae 9.090909091 20.23809524 18.29268293 19.23076923 Lutjanidae 0 8.333333333 14.63414634 0 Scaridae 54.54545455 17.85714286 3.658536585 3.846153846

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

3.5.5 Mega Fauna analysis

3.5.5.1 Bird Survey

Table 19 Bird Survey locations

Site GPS point Bird T1 43 N, 342861.87 m E, 325690.14 m N Bird T2 *Lost coordinates during data transfer Bird T3 43 N, 343104.70 m E, 325601.11 m N

Table 20 Summary data for bird survey

Bird Survey Common name T1 T2 T3 Corvus splendens House Crow 12 15 9 Eydynamys scolopacea Asian Koel 2 2 1 Amaurornis phoenicurus Maldivian Water Hen 0 0 1 Table 21 Raw data for bird survey with time of siting

Bird Survey T1 T2 T3 1 Corvus splendens 15:30 2 Corvus splendens 15:31 3 Corvus splendens 15:34 4 Corvus splendens 15:35 5 Corvus splendens 15:36 6 Corvus splendens 15:37 7 Corvus splendens 15:41 8 Corvus splendens 15:48 9 Corvus splendens 15:49 10 Corvus splendens 15:50 11 Eydynamys scolopacea 15:54 12 Corvus splendens 15:55 13 Corvus splendens 15:56 14 Eydynamys scolopacea 15:57 1 Eydynamys scolopacea 16:30 2 Corvus splendens 16:33 3 Corvus splendens 16:36 4 Corvus splendens 16:36 5 Corvus splendens 16:36 6 Corvus splendens 16:36 7 Corvus splendens 16:48 8 Corvus splendens 16:51 9 Corvus splendens 16:54 10 Corvus splendens 16:57 11 Corvus splendens 17:00 12 Corvus splendens 17:03 13 Corvus splendens 17:06 14 Corvus splendens 17:19 15 Corvus splendens 17:22 16 Eydynamys scolopacea 17:23 17 Corvus splendens 17:28 1 Corvus splendens 13:00 2 Corvus splendens 13:30 3 Corvus splendens 13.31 4 Corvus splendens 13:32 5 Corvus splendens 13:45 6 Corvus splendens 13.31 7 Eydynamys scolopacea 13:32

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

8 Corvus splendens 13:38 9 Corvus splendens 13:44 10 Corvus splendens 13:50 11 Amaurornis phoenicurus 13:57

Bird survey data shows that during the time of survey site 1 had a total of 14 sightings where, 12 were Corvus splendens and 2 were Eydynamys scolopacea. Similarly, on site 2 out of 17 sightings, 15 are Corvus splendens and 2 are Eydynamys scolopacea. On site 3 out of 11 birds 9 are Corvus splendens and 1 was a Eydynamys scolopacea and 1 was Amaurornis phoenicurus

To determine the diversity of the bird population more data is required. The survey carried out just shows the interaction of the avian lifeforms to that of the habitat. The local guides also informed that during seasons, the island gets numerous sea birds that frequent the shoreline and the wetland area. 3.5.6 Hexapod analysis

A hexapod analysis was to determine the dominant order represented in the sample. Kick samples and a simple tally point count was taken in order to determine the representation at the time.

3.5.6.1 Kick sampling

Samples were taken at 3 different locations. Analysis of the samples show that in the water body 1 and 2 same order was represented2. Insects of the order diptera specifically the lave of culex dominated all samples.

Table 22 Kick sample analysis

T1 T2 T3 GPS coordinates 43 N, 342959.71 m E, 43 N,342995.75 m 325508.72 m N E,325509.14 m N Type of sample Kick Kick Kick Culex,spp 3 12 15 Unidentified arthropod 1 1 3.5.6.2 Tally point count

A tally point count showed that the dominant form of hexapod in the wetland area during the time of the survey is Hymenoptera with 2 types of different ants and 2 types of wasps. The ant population was noted in clusters where every spotting was noted as +100. The next dominant order found mostly at the periphery of the entrance roads and rarely in the study area were the order Orthoptera with two major types. A total of 34 individuals were counted. The order that dominated next was lepidoptera with 1 type of butterfly and 2 types of moths. These were followed by the order Mantodea with 2 observations. Followed by Odonata and coleoptera both identified once.

Table 23 Results for tally point count analysis

Order Family Count Hymenoptera Formicidae ( type 1) +100 Formicidae ( type 2) +100 clade Anthophila ( type 1) 1 Anthophila ( type 2) 2

2 3 insect orders Diptera, Coleoptera and Hemiiptera were identified at the edge and within the waterbody. Hoervey the kick sampling only had two different orders represented in it.

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

Lepidoptera Danaidae3 1 Arctiidae 3 Noctuidae 1 Orthoptera Unspecified 19 Unspecified 15 Mantodea Unspecified 2 Odonata Unspecified 1 Coleoptera Unspecified 1 3.5.7 Noise levels

Noise levels were measured during day time, to assess the baseline of ambient noise.

location Point 1 Point 2 Point 3 Work area Football ground 63 72 85 Work area picnic area 52 85 87 Wetland area 53 63 72 Control area village 88 85 83 Control area village 80 82 86 The proposed project areas and the wetland area is relatively silent as they are far from the residential areas. The residential areas of M. Mulah is quite loud as houses are close together and urban noise (television, entertainment, chatter, motorised vehicles, construction, kids playing and craws) is heard throughout. 3.6 Socio-economic environment

The island of Mulak is located at Meemu atoll or Mulaku atoll. The atoll consists of 8 inhibited islands where M.Muli is the administrative capital of the atoll. 3.6.1 History

The island, like most Maldivian islands with a long history of inhabitants stretching back further than the great famine. There are few historical landmarks on the island, where the current generation inhibited are not aware of the actual age of. This includes two mosques on the old town area and a cemetery attached to them. There is no history of an exodus and according to the locals there has been a noticeable immigration to the island since the 80s.

According to the locals old enough to remember the famine, much like other islands, the locals of M.Mulah did not go out to sea for fishing as they were aware of looting and the harsh treatment of any captive ship/boat out at sea. However, fishing was enough to sustain as the island was on the channel and agro-food was in abundance as the island of was a hub for trade and had wetland area that could provide enough for the island and trade.

Throughout the 60s, 70s, 80s and well into the 90s the island had a strong sense of community involvement and responsibility as the law of the island where in establishing forest harvest twice a week through community support was practiced4. The harvest was distributed through the island for those in need.

3 Representing family Danaidae, hence reported as such. 4According to the locals who participated and benefited from the practice,” twice a week early morning we would line up outside our house doors to the sound of the conch. We would go into the forest area with sacks and vessels. Every able-bodied woman, man, and child would go and collect all the forest harvest that is not claimed. Then they will be brought back by late evening where every home will take a fair share of the collected

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

During the 2004 Tsunami, The island suffered little to no destruction. Therefore, M.Mulah was a hub for relief work where the islanders form different parts of the atoll were brought in given shelter, and food; acting as the temporary administrative head5 of the atoll. 3.6.2 Economy and population.

As per the council of M.Mulah. The resident population of the island is 1951 individuals. The main line of work on the island is fishing. With 7 boats in the category of size 80 to 100ft and numerous small boats. The island has a major section in the industrial zone set for fish processing.

The island has 2 guest houses and the island hopes to expand the guesthouse components of the island further to a specialised section of the island. The island also wishes to expand into the tourism sector by allocating a tourism area in the island.

The island also makes and exports ‘fangi’; traditional tach roofing. Which according to the locals can be sold for a price of 30 to 50 MVR. 3.6.3 Education

The council also reports that the island has schooling from kindergarten to the 10th grade. With BTECs. 3.6.4 Health

The island has a health centre, and for major operations require assistance from the atoll capital or the capital. However, it was reported that most of the islands opt for services abroad for health care. 3.6.5 Electricity, sewerage, and water.

All utilities are provided by FENAKA since 2016. 3.6.6 Transportation

Transportation to M. Atoll is easy with government and local transportation in place. Using speed boat the maximum time taken to reach the island is approximately 2 hours 30 minutes. The speed ferries make stops at different island along the way in M.atoll during the trip making the last stop the capital of the atoll. 3.6.7 Socio Economic benefits

The developments proposed are predicated to bring an overall contentment to the islanders who need and proposed for the development. The use of the facilities will ensure the development of skillset of the locals who use the football area and the picnic area.

The football area will most likely be released on a booking basis for the locals but will be leased for an acceptable amount for the professional teams. This income will be incorporated into the council’s budget. Similarly, the picnic area will bring an income for the island as further development and maintenance will be leased to the lowest bidder and will have to pay rent to the council. This will bring in additional income to the island and will overall provide economic benefits.

or pay and the rest will be distributed among the poor. if there was excess, they will be stored for addition to a later harvest.” 5 The existing adumbrative head was devastated during the 2004 Tsunami and had to be moved.

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

3.7 Hazard vulnerability

The hazard risk assessment of the area was derived from the hazard profile published in the Base Line Study Report, Shaviyani Atoll, Maldives (UNISDR-ADRRN, 2005). 3.7.1 Tsunamis.

Tsunami hazard is mostly from the south. Understandably this is due to the active state of the tectonic plates at the east.

Historically, Maldives has been affected by three earthquake sources in the Indian Ocean. Of the total 85 tsunamis generated since 1816, 67 originated from the Sumatra subduction zone in east and the remaining 13 from the Makran coast zone in north and Carlsburg Transform fault zone in south. Hence, islands along the eastern fringe of the atolls are at a greater hazard than the western. M. Mulak along with the other islands on the eastern fringe, are in the highest hazard zones (Figure 44). This is evident form the distruction the islands were subjected to in the eastern 2004 tsunami. However, the location of the island in the channel and the high ridge of the island mitigated most damages.

The island is in hazard zone 5, where the probable wave height is 320-450cm (Table 24)

Table 24 Tsunami hazard zone and wave height (UNISDR-ADRRN, 2005)

Hazard Zone Range of probable maximum wave height 1 <30 cm 2 30-80 cm 3 80-250 cm 4 250-320 cm 5 320-450 cm

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

Figure 44 Tsunami hazard zones, (UNISDR-ADRRN, 2005)

3.7.2 Storms.

The cyclone hazard zone for Maldives is highest in the north. Historical records indicate that during 1877 to 2004, eleven cyclones crossed Maldives. Where the frequency reduces as we move towards the south. Hence, the northern atolls are at a higher hazard from cyclonic winds and storm surge (UNISDR- ADRRN, 2005)

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

Figure 45 Cyclone hazard zones, (UNISDR-ADRRN, 2005)

Table 25 Cyclone hazard zone in Maldives and the probable maximum wind speed (UNISDR-ADRRN, 2005)

Hazard Zone Probable Maximum Wind Speed Saffir Simpson Scale 1 0.0 0 2 55.9 0 3 69.6 1 4 84.2 2 5 96.8 3

The island of M.Mulah is in region 2 of the hazard zone (Figure 45 and Table 25) where the maximum probable wind speed reaches 55.9 knots.

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

3.7.3 Storm tide hazard

Local storms are high in the Maldives. Usually accompanied by rainfall and high waves. In general, he southern parts of the islands are mostly affected during April and December, which is the interim period between northeast and southwest monsoon season. (Figure 46), (UNISDR-ADRRN, 2005).

Figure 46 Surge hazard zones, (UNISDR-ADRRN, 2005)

Table 26 Hazard zones and specific conditional data (UNISDR-ADRRN, 2005).

Hazard Zone Pressure drop hPa Storm Surge Height Average Tide Storm tide (M) height (m) 1 - - - - 2 15 0.45 0.93 1.38 3 15 0.60 0.93 1.53 4 30 0.99 0.98 1.97 5 30 1.32 0.98 2.30

The island of M.Mulah is on the eastern fringe, hence is exposed to the conditions from the east at surge hazard zone 3. The island is exposed to a general storm surge height of 0.60 and an average tide height of 0.93m and storm tide of 1.53m (Table 26).

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

3.7.4 Earth quake Hazard

The islands in Seenu, Gavini, and Gaafu are at the hazard zone of a seismic activity. Otherwise the entire country is in the low seismic hazard zones. (UNISDR-ADRRN, 2005)

Figure 47 the seismic hazard zones for Maldives (UNISDR-ADRRN, 2005).

The island of M.Mulah falls under the seismic hazard zone 1 hence has a MMI value range for 475 year return period of less than 4.5. (Figure 47, Table 27)

Table 27 the seismic hazard zones for Maldives (UNISDR-ADRRN, 2005)

Seismic hazard zones MMI value range for 475 years return period 1 Less than 4.5 2 4.5 to 5 3 5.0 to 5.5 4 5.5 to 7.0 5 7.0 to 8.0

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

4 Stakeholder’s consultation

Stakeholder’s consultation was held in two settings. On site and in offsite All the stakeholder meetings were casual interviews where the consultant allowed the stakeholder to express their views regarding the proposed project

The details of the meetings follow; 4.1 Scoping meeting

The scoping meeting was granted on 8/12/19. The scoping was attended by the atoll council, island council, the contractor, members from EPA, and a representative from Ministry of youth, sports, and community empowerment.

In the meeting,

• EPA noted that the picnic area does not require a lot of land clearance. Therefore, the footprint of clearance should be made clear and precise. o The member from the atoll and island council reassured that land clearance will be kept to a minimum, limited to the footprint on the picnic area. • EPA also noted that the replanting area on the island should be made clear and distinct with replanting receptor sites available for the contractor. o To this the consultant noted that the replanting zone is the southernmost tip from the island. They also noted that the area will be accessed through the dry road on the periphery of the wetland and the plants will be placed in ideal areas. • Further EPA noted that a burrow area for the sand to backfill, with estimated quality must be identified, and studied. o To this discussion, members from the atoll, and island council informed that the most ideal borrow area for the development is the EIA approved slipway harbor basin. • EIA also recommended the consultant to refer to the updated plant uprooting form to ensure all the required details are provided in the EIA. They also noted that alternatives must be provided for both the football area and picnic area

4.2 Meeting with M.Mulah council

The following are the details of the council meeting.

• The meeting proceeded with the consultant requesting for the population data and other statistics of the island. the meeting initiated with the discussion of the main source of income for the island. o To this the representatives of the island stated that the main source of income for the locals is fishing where the island currently has 7 boats in the range of 80 to 100 ft and numerous smaller boats that are in service and carry out numerous forms of fisheries activities in the island. • They further explained that the main source of income for the council currently is rent from the various leased areas of the island. • Next the development plan was discussed the council stated that there are numerous developments proposed in the island including a tourism zone in which the council proposes to

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

open the development for the highest bidder and a local tourism area is also planned. However, the current planned developments are the proposed developments. • The council also stated that an official LUP for the island is not developed and so far, all developments are proposed to the government and granted the location from the concerned government body. • They further explained that the new housing projects and the access roads to the new housing areas are granted permission form the government and will follow shortly. Further, they explained that the tourism zones are also proposed and discussions will commence soon. • Next the location of the football stadium was discussed. Initially the concern in the scoping meeting was that the football stadium footprint was directly on the mangrove area. to clarify, the council noted that the footprint of the football ground is in the north west to south east direction not the north east to south west direction as shown in the map initially. Therefore, the consultant requested for the revised drawings prior to proceeding with the survey. Further, the council stated that they have left a buffer of around 200-450ft before the wetland area. This was followed by the discussion of development of the football ground in this location while all other sports related developments are on the other side of the island. o To this the council commented that the development of the football ground in this location is important due to the lack of development in this area of the island. Next an alternative location for the football ground was discussed. As per the council, the location is set and can not be altered as the new developments are planned elsewhere in the island. o However, on further discussions an alternative development location was proposed west to the main stadium. o

In the kickoff meeting, the council stated that the picnic area was a governmental promise. To clarify, in the stakeholder’s meeting this was further discussed

• The council stated that this promise is the general promise that all islands will have a sports area • The council wishes to implement this as this is beneficial for the island as it can provide learning opportunities and economic possibilities to the locals.

Next the location of the picnic area and how it was decided was discussed.

• To this, the council stated that the location was the best location as it was safe for picnics. They also stated that the proximity of the area to the local tourism zone is another advantage of the location as it can promote the proposed businesses and features of the area. The council also added that they plan to develop the entire area as a picnic area with activities such as barbeques, and sunbeds. o They also added that they have an upcoming youth base licensed in sea sports activities who are eager to come back from their work stations at resorts to the island to their families once the employment opportunity is available. The council also noted that they plan to develop the area further to a sea spots area once the tourism zone is established.

Next the discussion was on clearing of the land and the options opted for land clearance. On discussion

• the council stated that they need the developments and they do not, and have not put a price tag on the plants and the work was awarded procured to the most capable bidder.

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

• They also stated that any benefit from the development that is gained from the project will be used in developing the island and be used in retributions to the lost trees of the locals. • They also noted that the islanders are aware of the agreement price of the work and locals among the island approves for this development. They also added that the alternative to tree translocation is slash and burn as the island does not have land for bulk translocation.

The final discussion was on the site for the temporary work camp.

• After discussions a preliminary work camp area was agreed north of the harbor. However, the council requests the contractor to request for the details and the utilities necessary, and space necessary for the work camp prior to mobilization and docking to the island.

The council also ensured that they will provide the approval of the approval of Ministry of Youth and sports, and the approval of Maldives land survey authority 4.3 Meeting with the women volley team of M.Mulah

Prior to the arrival at M.Mulah, a meeting request was sent to the council to meet with interested parties and stakeholders of the community. Upon arrival it was brought to the teams attention that the women’s volleyball team was interested to meet as a stakeholder for the proposed project. Both for the team’s and the survey team’s convenience, it was agreed to meet at the sports ground after practice. The meeting started at 18:10.

The first topic discussed was the football ground. Upon asking if the island needs another football ground or sports area, the stakeholder’s stated that

• They are in need of a football ground that can reduce the demand of the shared space with the volley area. They also stated that the current football ground cannot accommodate the existing population especially during football season. They also reported that this often leads to teams carrying excess team members to include all who demands and eventually end up with some who cannot participate in the match. They also stated that they have to often give up their turf during football season due to the demand. • Next the specifics of the football ground was discussed. In the discussion, the stakeholder’s noted that o they are aware of the dimensions of the football ground and they would like to develop a good football ground with the services such as steel goalposts and clearly marked sidelines. They also demanded that they need a good buffer area for the spectators (stand in this case).

The next topic of conversation was an alternative location.

• As per the stakeholders, there is no alternative for the football location. They stated that the developed area and the planned upcoming developments are set and most of them approved at strategic location. Hence, moving the football ground would disrupt the proposed plan. They also noted that the area demarked for the development is planned as a development for the eastern side of the island aimed for the locals of the eastern side as they feel that not enough developments exist on the east. Hence, according to the locals, there is no alternative location.

Next the significance and importance of the mangrove area in the vicinity of the development was discussed. All presented acknowledges and understands the importance of the wetland area and noted that although not in use now, in the past the area was crucial and fundamental for their survival in the island. The islanders also noted that they understand that the development is close to the wetland area

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives. and there can be potential impacts of the development on the wetland. Hence, they would like the contractor to undertake all precautionary measures before the development.

Next the discussion was on the picnic area. Where;

• the locals stated that the location was best for the picnic area which has the best picnic location and the safest beach. They also stated that a picnic area will potentially bring more jobs to the island which allowed families to stay together6. • They also stated that an alternative lactation is ideally the tourism zone. however, due to the location, orientation, and privacy of the zone, it is best saved as a bikini beach for the tourism zone.

Figure 48 Participants for the meeting with the team 4.4 Meeting with the men’s football team and volleyball team of M.Mulah

This meeting followed the women’s volleyball team meeting. Here too the same discussions were held with the same response, where both the teams

• Stated the need of a football ground was to foster for the ever-growing population and the need for even distribution of facilities. • They further noted that a practice pitch while competitions are held is important and that the new area can be used as either one.

Next an alternative location for the football area.

6 The last statement shows a concern of the islanders for having to leave the island and consequently their families for employment, this must be noted as this has a great impact on many Maldivian families.

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

• To this it was informed that an alternative location for activities exists, which is on the eastern side of the island. They stated that the area was used by the youth on the eastern side. However, they noted that the activity became a local disturbance. • Also the relative proximity of the said area to the shoreline is an issue.

Next the discussion was on the picnic area. Where;

• The locals stated that the proposed location was ideal, with added developments the area can be made into an area with numerous potential business opportunities. • They also stated that the area is ideal as any tourists who would come and stay in the island guesthouses would have to walk through the island to reach the swimming area increasing the chances of potential economic interaction with the locals. • They also stated that the only alternative lactation is the one of the plots in the vicinity of the proposed plot and stated that they can not give up the tourism zone. They informed that the southeastern face of the island has gone through extensive erosion and has a very strong wave action with beach rock on the reef flat, which is ideal for surfing but due to the stated erosion not ideal for tourist activities.

Figure 49 Participants for the meeting with the team 4.5 Meeting with locals of the island.

The meeting for the general population was requested and granted. The meeting commenced after a brief introduction from the senior admin officer followed by the ZV of the island.

First topic of discussion was on the picnic area.

• To this, the locals noted that it is a potentially ideal location for the development of a picnic area, and the youth need expansion to watersports to ensure establishment of tourism facilities in the island. They also noted that this development is important for the youth and the old alike

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

as this will provide much needed entertainment and inculcate the appreciation of nature and natural resources within the community. They also noted that the overall development would bring the community closer.

Next the topic of discussion was on the football field development.

• During the discussion, it was noted that the development of the football field will bring a relief to the existing overcrowding of the stadium and the streets during the football season and offseason alike. They also noted that they look forward for the new development in hopes that it will bring a stop to the practice of playing on the streets during football season (**).

Next the significance of the wetland area to the island was highlighted. They stated that in the past the area was not smothered by vines and access was easy as the area was managed. However, in the past few decades the area was largely ignored due to imports and a lack of need for the islanders to go in search of food in to the forest area. They also noted that the old roads are now inaccessible as new fast- growing trees are in the way, making access to the once important source of food very difficult. They also cautioned the youth stating that the resource should not be looked over as it is the only mode of sustenance on the island if history is to repeat itself7. They also stated that the current condition can be reversed to a more ideal, useable condition through management as they used to do in their childhood some sixty to seventy years back.

The next topic of discussion was the ideal work camp location. On the topic, the locals recommended the harbor area as the best for such a workforce. They also noted that accommodation at the local facilities and houses are also welcome as long as the council is informed.

The last topic of discussion was an alternative method for tree transplantation. On this topic the locals stated that,

• They need the development and does not care about a mode of transplantation. They also stated that they propose cutting down of trees in the football field plot if the process could be made fast. • They further requested the consultant go on record to communicate to the central government8 that the locals of Mulaku need the developments proposed in this project and other projects as well. They pointed out that stagnation of every government since the earliest of times have halted development in the island pointing out that the locals still live without proper waste management on the island. they further stated that they understand that it is easy for the central government to enforce replantation of uprooted plants on the island before translocation and planting of 2 plants for every plant removed as the government authority or law maker living in the capital belonging to another atoll of Maldives will not have to face or live the reality of the day to day struggles of Mulak due to the lack of space in islands and the lack of facilities in the islands. They also stated that they would want the local government to have control of deciding factors such as land approval for plots of land for community needs, as despite the educational qualification of the authority in the central government clearly, and surely, they lack the local knowledge of the area.

7 Referring to WW2, and the famine that followed the disruption of the marine and areal supply routes due to war. 8 The central government is here referred to by the locals as the main governing body. Government of Maldives.

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

Figure 50 meeting with locals 1

Figure 51 meeting with locals 2

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

4.6 Meeting with MRC

At MRC, the data from the stakeholder’s consultation and the work scope was explained. They commented that all excavation activities should be carried out on at low tide and preferably on a low stress season. They further noted that the contractor must ensure that removal of trees from near/on the buffer area of the wetland has minimal chance of causing runoff into the sea as this may impact the marine life.

4.7 Consultation with Mulaku atoll council

After a phone call, an email with the details and the stakeholder’s consultation details were sent to the atoll council and the concerned staff for comments 4.8 Letter form MLSA.

Invitations through emails and phone calls were exchanged for consultation, we are yet to be granted a meeting

However, the letter from MLSA with the reference number 431-LIS/364/2019/2, attached states that the area is approved and states the conditions on behalf of MLSA

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

4.9 Meeting with MYSCE

The meeting was required as the swimming area developed requires the approval of MYSCE. A representative from the ministry was met, and meeting conducted at EPA.

In the meeting, the letter number referenced 141-PSIP/364/2019/9 (attached) was referenced where MYSCE had stated that they do not have an objection for the development.

In the meeting further discussions were held the comments follows;

• The size of the football area was further clarified, as the size of the area seem smaller. o To this the council clarified that the size was made smaller by 4m deliberately to ensure that the football field does not enter into the buffer zone of the wetland area. • In the meeting, the representative also clarified the reason for another football ground specifically on the eastern side of the island. o To which the council stated that the development is proposed to accommodate for the youth among the 2000 plus resident population who demand the available pitches almost always at the same time. o The location is specified as they wish to bring the development to the eastern side of the island to foster for the eastern population. Apart from that the representative clarified the pitch management plan. And stated that through renting out the space at a specific time, management revenue should be generated by the council.

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5 Policy and legal framework

5.1 Introduction The following section addresses the legal, policy , administrative framework for the environmental management and some regulatory guidelines and standards relevant for the proposed project All the activities during both development and implementation stage of the proposed project will be carried out in accordance with existing plans, policies, guidelines, laws and regulations of Maldives in addition to relevant international conventions to which Maldives is a party to. 5.2 Relevant Environment Legislation 5.2.1 Environment Protection and Preservation Act (Act no. 4/93) Environment Protection and Preservation Act of Maldives (4/93) is the framework law on environmental management in the Maldives. Articles 2, 4,5,6,7, and 8 of the law are relevant to this project. 5.2.1.1 Article 2 states that the concerned government authorities shall provide the necessary guidelines and advise on environmental protection in accordance with the conditions and needs. All concerned parties shall follow the guidelines provided by the government authorities 5.2.1.2 Article 4 states that the Ministry of Housing, Transport and Environment shall be responsible for identifying protected areas and natural reserves and formulating the necessary rules and regulations for their conservation and protection. The proponent shall ensure that there is no negative impact from the proposed project on any protected areas 5.2.1.3 Article 5 (a) states, an Environmental Impact Assessment shall be submitted to the Ministry of Housing and Environment (MHE) if a project is likely to have an impact on the environment, before implementing any activity. This EIA report is prepared and submitted by the project proponent to fulfil the legal requirement specified in Act (4/93) 5.2.1.4 Article 6, the Ministry of Housing, Transport and Environment has the authority to terminate any project that has any undesirable impact on the environment without any compensation. The project proponent is aware of this condition and will ensure all practical measures to prevent irreversible and significant negative impact of the project. 5.2.1.5 Article 7 of the Environment Protection Act (4/93) prohibits the disposal of wastes, oil and gases in a manner that will damage the environment. Wastes, oil and gases must be disposed in areas designated by the Government. Hence, the project proponent shall use the Environmental

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

Management Plan for this project which specifies how the wastes, oil and gases generated by the project will be disposed. 5.3 Relevant Regulations and Guidelines 5.3.1 Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations 2012 The decision to go forward with an EIA will be decided upon screening process. which dictates a category and the scope of the EIA. The proponent and the proponent’s consultant (who is a registered consultant) will meet the EPA and stakeholders in a scoping meeting which will approve the TOR which will set the limits for the EIA. The EIA will start with the baseline studies, impact prediction and finally reporting the findings with impact mitigation and monitoring program. This report follows the procedures for EIA outlined in the EIA regulations. The EIA report is reviewed by EPA, where a decision note will be given accordingly. After approval the project proponent will be required to follow the monitoring and implement the mitigation measures prescribed in the EIA. 5.3.2 Regulation on Sand and Coral Mining This regulation covers sand, coral, and aggregate mining from costal zones, and uninhibited islands that have been leased. This regulation is of direct relevance to the project. A ban on coral mining from house reef and atoll rim exists since 26 September 1990. This project strictly follows the ban. 5.3.3 Regulation on Sand and Coral Mining Since 2nd April 2013 the regulation of Dredging and Land Reclamation was in effect with the aim of reducing environmental impacts associated with dredging activities in islands, and reefs across Maldives. It defines the rational acceptable for dredging only in cases necessary, as those approved for developmental activities on inhibited islands and economic islands. All dredging and reclamation activities must be approved by EPA. It defines rational for reclamation as those absolutely necessary for social, economic or safety purpose. Beach replenishment is restricted from 10m of the registered shoreline in resort islands.

• Dreading is restricted in the following areas: • 500 m form the ocean side of the reef • 50 m form any island vegetation line • An environmentally sensitive site. • Land reclamation is restricted within 200m of a sensitive area • Land reclamation cannot exceed 30% of the house reef area. 5.3.4 Regulation on cutting down trees Cutting down trees and relocating trees are regulated in the Maldives by law on cutting down, uprooting, digging out and exporting of trees and palms form one island to another. The law is

EIA for the development of a senior football ground, and a picnic area at Mulah, M. Atoll, Maldives.

made in accordance to Law No 4/93. The law states that the law is to educate the citizens and contractors and developers on the importance, and need of management of trees and provide preservation of the existing trees. The law prohibits the following trees to be removed.

• The riparian vegetation growing around the islands extending to about 15m from the vegetation line inland. • All trees and palms growing in mangroves and wetlands, and the vegetation surrounding the area spreading 15m from the wetland. • All trees in Government protected areas • Trees that are being protected by the Government in order to protect species of animal organisms that use the trees as habitat. • Trees / palms those are unusual, unique, and special in nature. In case off removal, the law states

• That prior permission must be obtained for removal or relocation of 10 or more palms. • Un-specified removal and land clearance requires an EIA. • The crown spread of the palms should be at +15 ft from the lowest point to qualify for removal. • The trees to qualify for removal should be more than 8ft from the lowest point of the trunk to the tip of the highest branch. • It also states that all trees removed shall be removed under the supervision of the government authorities that holds jurisdiction. • It also states that for every tree removed one shall be planted on the island of removal.

5.4 Relevant Regulations and Guidelines Environmental permits required for the project 5.4.1 Environmental impact Assessment ( EIA ) Decision Note The decision note is based on the comments of the EIA reviewer. The note may request further information from the proponent or may declare that the EIA provides enough details to proceed with a decision. If the EIA is not rejected, the decision note will administer the scope of the project and strengthens the EIA which binds the proponent, contractor and sub-contractors to the monitoring and implementation of the mitigation measures prescribed in the EIA. 5.4.2 Dredging and Reclamation Permit If the project requires dredging and reclamation, a permit must be taken from EPA. A specific form published by the EPA must be completed and submitted for the approval. EIA application will not be accepted if the approval is not given.

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5.5 Responsible Government Institutions The main governmental institutes that acta as the main answering bodies are 5.5.1 Ministry of environment and energy The ministry is responsible for the policies while the EPA manages the technical aspects of various projects. screening, scoping, approval of terms of reference, reviewing and requesting for additional information, issuing decision statement and halting a project falls under the EPA. 5.5.2 M.Mulah island council The island council can act autonomously on developmental activities in coordination with the government to meet the needs of the people. 5.6 Guiding Policies and Documents 5.6.1 Policy of waste management The policy was framed keeping in mind a healthy environment which is solid waste free. Ensuring safe disposal of Solid waste, chemicals and hazardous industrial waste. Encouraging recycling, and reducing of waste generated. It also allows development of guidelines on waste management and disposal and advocate enforcing such guidelines. 5.7 International Conventions 5.7.1 United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) Maldives is a party to the CBD The objective of the convention is “the conservation of biological diversity, the sustainable use of its components and the fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising out of the utilization of genetic resources, including by appropriate access to genetic resources and by appropriate transfer of relevant technologies, taking into account all rights over those resources and to technologies, and by appropriate funding”. Although the project does not fall on any protected area the numerous dive site in the area and the seagrass bed surrounding the island is now recognized for its ecological value. Loss of seagrass habitat for the project is inevitable. However, disturbance and sedimentation must be minimized to allow minimum loss of the coral reefs surrounding the area. Hence, it is recommended for the developer to use all mitigation measures including planning a pathway and maintenance of the vehicles to minimize any incidences of negative impact. 5.7.2 International Plant protection convention (IPPC) Since 3rd Oct 2006 Maldives follows the IPPC in order to protect the native plant species in the Maldives form the risk of disease from introduced and imported plants. Hence, it is advisable for the proponent to be aware of the requirements of the IPPC and obtain the necessary IPPC certifications if any plant is to be imported later on.

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6 Potential Impacts 6.1 Introduction

In this section the objective is to investigate the potential impacts of the proposed project on the existing environment. The identification of an impact does not ensure the occurrence of the impact and it does not mean that it cannot be mitigated. However, it informs the authorities that the proponent is made aware of the impacts and the contractor is informed of the expected mitigation measures for the proposed project prior to awarding of the work. 6.2 Impact predication

Various methods of impact assessment are available. The assessor must understand and consider the proposed method, the baseline natural environment and the socioeconomic environment of the project while assessing the impacts. The proposed work is simple. Possible impacts that can arise from the proposed work on the area are described according to the work location, extent (magnitude) and characteristics. Further the intensity of impacts is classified into; negligible, minor, moderate, and major for identifying the best possible mitigation. The impact categories are classified as follows

Table 28 Intensity of impacts defined

Impact category Description Reversible \ Cumulative impacts irreversible Negligible The impact has no Reversible No significant risk to the environment either short-term or long term. Minor The impact is short-term Reversible No undesirable but accepted Moderate the impact give rise to Reversible May or may not some concern but is likely to be tolerable in short-term, or will require value judgment as to its acceptability Major the impact is large scale Reversible and Yes, mitigation measure giving rise to great irreversible has to be addressed concern; it should be considered unacceptable and requires significant change or halting of the project The principle of Leopold matrix (Leopold, Clarke, Hanshaw, & Baisiey, 1971) has been used to classify the magnitude and importance of the possible impacts which may arise during the various stages of the proposed project. The dimensions of the matrix refer to the possible / foreseeable / probable impacts of the proposed work/project/activity) on the existing environmental conditions at the proposed work area. Leopold matrix lists numerous actions which cause impacts and environmental conditions. The current matrix is modified for the specific project.

The actions are evaluated in terms of magnitude of impact on the environment, significance of impact on the environment and the probability of impact as described in the paper by Josimović & Petric, 2014.

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Table 29 Evaluation criteria, grading scale

Evaluated criteria Designation Scale Impact probability M impact is possible (probability of less than 50%); V impact is probable (probability of over 50%); I impact is certain (100% probability). Impact magnitude 0 No observable effect 1 Low effect 2 Tolerable effect 3 Medium high effect 4 High effect 5 Very high effect Impact significance L Limited impact on location O impact of importance for municipality; R impact of regional character; N impact of national character; M Impact of cross-border character. Impact duration P Occasional/Temporary D Long term/ Permanent

The proposed project is straight forward and has few potential impacts limited terrestrial modification / development. The construction phase contains impacts unique to the development stage while, potential impacts while during operation, is unique as well.

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Figure 52 Impact zone marked approximately at work sites. (reduced map)

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Figure 53 Predicted border impact zones of different activities to the locals ( Reduced map )

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6.2.1 Limitations of impact prediction

The limitations of the impact prediction are. due to time constrains and scheduling, long term data necessary for impact prediction is unavailable. Thus, acting as a major limitation. Long term data is necessary to understand the complex systems of the project area A limited understanding of these unique features, how these features change over time, impact the local population have on these features due to their activities, and a lack of documented historical data is another limitation.

The possible bias in the available historical data, stakeholder’s consultation and the proponent’s information is also considered. Impact prediction is carried out using the available data during site visit. Hence, is another major limitation.

6.2.1.1 Identification of impacts

All impacts identified are categorized according to the work to be done, the area of action and the component of action. The idea is to ensure attaining a holistic image of the cause of action of each step

The major actions of impact discussed are below

Development impacts General Mobilization and Building work camp

Stocking up and addition of construction material

Addition of staff workforce.

Football ground work site demarcation

land clearance

backfilling

Picnic area land / tree management

concrete works

Back fill borrow area eexcavation dredging

Stockpiling

moving of borrow material

Replanting on the island Replanting on the island

Impacts of utility Football ground Use of football ground

Picnic area use of picnic area

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Impacts of

Development impacts utility

General

Picnic area Picnic area

Football ground Football ground

Back fillborrow area Replanting on island the

use of picnic area Use of Use footballground

Mobilization and Building work camp Stocking up andaddition of construction material Addition staffof workforce. work demarcationsite land clearance backfilling land tree / management concrete works excavationdredging Stockpiling moving borrowof material Replanting on island the Probability of impacts /

M,V,I

Ground water M M M I I M I I M

Air quality M M V V Physical components Sea water I M

Coastal zones I M

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Odour M M M M V

noise M M M I I I I I I I I I

Ecosystem quality V I V I I I I M V I I

Biological components Diversity of flora V I V I I I I I I I I I I

Diversity of fauna V I V I I I I I I I I

landscape use I I V I V V I

Land use I I I I V I I

Cultural Components law and ethics and social I V I I unrest

Politics I

Economic growth I V I

Diseases and related Economic components M M I I economic factors I

Cost of living M M

Significance of impact

L,O,R,N,M

Ground water L L L L L L L L L L O

Air quality L L L L L O

Physical components Sea water O

Coastal zones O O

Odour L L L O O L O

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noise L L L L L L L L L L L O

Ecosystem quality O L L L R L L R L O O O

biological components Diversity of flora O L R R R R R L L L O O

Diversity of fauna O L L L L L L L L L O O

landscape use L O L L L L L L L O O

Land use L O L L L L L L L L O

Cultural Components law and ethics and social O O L L L unrest O

Politics R R R

Economic growth O L O R R

Diseases and related Economic components O L economic factors

Cost of living O L O O

Duration of impacts P,D

Physical components Ground water P P P D D P P P D

Air quality D P D D D

Sea water

Coastal zones D D

Odour P P P P P P

noise P P P P P P P P P P P

biological components Ecosystem quality P P P D D D D D D P

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Diversity of flora P P P D P P P P D P D D D

Diversity of fauna P P P D P P P P D P D D D

landscape use P P P

Land use D D D D D

Cultural Components law and ethics and social

unrest D D

Politics D

Economic growth D

Diseases and related Economic components D D D economic factors

Cost of living P D

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Impacts of

Development impacts utility

fillborrow area

General Football ground Picnic area Back Replanting on island the Football ground Picnic area

ckpiling

Mobilization and Building work camp Stocking up andaddition of construction material Addition staffof workforce. work demarcationsite land clearance backfilling land tree / management concrete works excavationdredging Sto moving borrowof material Replanting on island the of Use footballground use of picnic area Cumulative impacton component magnitude of impacts 1-5

Physical components Ground water -2 -1 -5 -2 -1 -1 -1 3 -1 -11

Air quality -1 -1 -1 -1 -1 2 -1 -1 -5

Sea water -2 -2

Coastal zones -3 -3

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Odour -2 -1 -1 -1 -1 -1 -1 2 -6

noise -3 -1 -1 -1 -1 -1 -1 -9

biological components Ecosystem quality -1 -2 -1 -1 3 -2

Diversity of flora -1 -2 1 -2 -1 -1 -1 -7

Diversity of fauna -1 -2 3 -1 -1 -1 -1 -4

landscape use -1 3 3 3 8

Land use 3 3 4 2 2 2 16

Cultural Components law and ethics and social -1 -1 -1 -1 -1 -1 -2 -6 unrest 1 1

Politics -1 -1 -1 -2 -5

Economic growth 3 3 6

Economic Diseases and related -2 -1 -1 components economic factors 1 1

Cost of living -1 -1

Cumulative impact of the -12 -4 -5 -4 -17 4 -3 -2 -8 0 -1 8 3 9 action

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The following are impacts of general mobilization and work-related setup.

6.3.1.1 Mobilization and building of work camp

Post mobilization, the development of the work camp is proposed on the reclaimed land on the north western side of the harbor area. Therefore, the physical major impact of the work camp is on the harbor area and roads leading into the work camp.

As stated above in the relevant sections, the work camp will not be used as a means of accommodation therefore, removes all impact of accommodation in the work camp. However, the camp will be used strictly as a storage, parking, maintenance, and as a construction dry waste management area.

The major physical component that is impacted is the impact on ground water of the section. If the construction material / equipment brought in are not properly prepared; cleaned and rust removed, they can have an impact on the water table. Similarly, if oils and other similar material is not bunded for storage, then, the specified material can have an impact on the water table. The next major component related to the abovementioned is the impact of odor. Sudden addition of workcamp and related gear can change the odor of the immediate location.

Movement and disturbance of using heavy vehicles on the vicinity can kick up dust and depending on the condition of the vehicles can add smoke to the area adding to the overall particulate matter concentration of the environment. However, in an island such as this, where, waste management is strictly dependent on burning, the movement of vehicles, and loading / unloading on the harbor, will have a negligible impact on the air quality and therefore, will have a minimum impact on the locals in this regard. On the other hand, noise pollution, traffic, and social interactions of the added work force is a major component will have both positive and negative impact on the location and locals.

Given that the area of mobilization/work camp has considerable amount of vegetation there would be a considerable impact on site. Mobilization also changes the landscape and the land use temporarily. Although the work is for the benefit of the island, if the restrains of ongoing work extends it will impact the locals negatively changing their views on the project leading to social unrest.

Since the mobilization site is in front of a social gathering hut, considerable care must be taken to prevent improper, use of language, playing loud music on site, etc. as any of the above stated may induce negative social interactions between the staff and the locals.

Economically the island benefits from mobilization. This is mostly since accommodation is proposed in local houses/lodges/guesthouses. The influx of new consumers on the island will increase the number of customers/consumers in local shops/businesses and will be a positive economic impact of the project.

6.3.1.2 Stocking up and addition of construction material

Three major classes of material will be stockpiled/stored; material for the staff, material for construction of the picnic hut, and material for maintenance of vehicles. The stockpile and storage will be in the work area.

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The construction material is not much in comparison to other projects. The martial necessary for the project will be shipped in and unloaded from the harbor and brought into the work camp and stored in the storage area. The material brought in is less likely to have a major impact on the water table or the fauna and flora of the area of placement as the area would be prepped and specially designed for the material. However, the material will have a major impact of the air quality. This is because the ideal state for construction material in storage is dry and once kept in that state, the material will kick up dust and particulate matter specially in material like cement.

6.3.1.3 Addition of staff workforce.

The addition of staff for the project will be a major component that needs addressing. The staff will be working under schedule work hours form 8 till 3, 6 days a week, with one and half hour break during work time in which the staff may take at their leisure after which the staff will socialize. The main impact is predicted form this recreational time where the staff will interact with the locals. Ideally the staff will be informed of the general rules and local laws, and the majority of the staff being locals would understand the general rules of the island. However, during a sudden influx of a population clashes between the locals and staff, and within the staff should be accounted for.

Spreading of diseases is another factor that should be taken into account while predicting the impact of staff on the environment. The addition of a population for a prolonged period will increase the chances of spreading of contagious diseases. It is naïve to assume that sexually transmitted diseases, flues, etc. will not spread incase of an influx of a foreign population living in close quarters with locals. Ideally all staff will be given a preliminary health check before moving to a new project to check the overall condition of the workforce. In case, a staff member is diagnosed with an illness/flu proper medical treatment should be provided in order to contain spreading of disease to other staff and to the locals.

The increase in the use of narcotics and crime should also be accounted for and is a likely impact of sudden addition to the population. The staff should be reminded of the consequences of any crime during the term of employment with the contractor and should be dealt with accordingly in case of an incident.

The addition of staff to the island will have a positive impact on the local economy as the contractor will buy the necessary material to cater for the staff, and will pay for the accommodation of the staff in the island. Apart from that during break and recreational pastime, the staff will act as consumers on the island ensuring a positive impact on the island economy.

There is a high chance of the staff engaging in activities such as fishing, spear fishing and hunting on the reef on the northern jetty, west point and the southern harbor tip of the island. Pole and line fishing will not have a considerable negative impact on the natural environment and the social environment if the staff ensure that they do not litter and respect the local laws. Spear fishing and hunting on the reef should be discouraged by the contractor as a pastime activity as it puts the staff in unnecessary risk due to the geomorphology of the island. There is a potential for negative impact of the practice on the local reef. Therefore, should be discouraged by the contractor. 6.3.2 Development impacts

6.3.2.1 Football Ground

The following are the major activities of work and the impact on the component of concern.

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6.3.2.1.1 Work site demarcation

Work site demarcation is a major activity for the football field development. The demarcation or setting up of a façade for the construction site is a major activity as it creates a physical barrier from the rest of the island. This acts as a symbolic and functional structure that identifies the area as a work site which the locals will recognize as an area that has potential hazards and it can also be used as a means of display of the warning signs prescribed in the above sections This acts as a physical barrier as it prevents locals; adults and kids, form entering the area reducing the potential possibility of harm, thus reducing negative impacts socially.

Work demarcation is not likely to have negative environmental impacts on the environment except for the immediate footprint of the façade. Due to the potential impacts that will follow demarcation on the flora and fauna it will be discussed on the relevant section below. During demarcation there is the potential for noise pollution as workers will put up the façades manually to reduce unnecessary use of machines.

6.3.2.1.2 Land clearance

Land clearance has a high impact on the footprint of clearance as it attempts to change the ecosystem through the process. The impact of the action is permanent if maintained. Throughout the work, the impact is on but not limited to; ground water table, odor of the area, noise levels, ecosystem quality, flora and fauna diversity, landscape use and land use of the area. The proposed mode of land clearance is uprooting after root ball treatment which is favored over the alternative that is cutting trees for the process of land clearance, and is highly destructive to the environment.

To make the root boll the trees will be dug and treated for days before uprooting. This will alter the water quality as the pit holes will act as water sinks and will change the ground water quality. This will also likely collect leaf matter and humus in the pits within the week or so that is required for the treatment of the root ball causing changes in odor of the overall environment.

Due to use of heavy vehicles noise pollution will be a constant during work hours bringing down the ecosystem quality of the area. Ideally, once the tree is removed, the pit will be backfilled and the line of work will move forward, Therefore, the potential for an increase in the number of mosquitos and related species from the baseline is unlikely. However, the change in the trees that is the habitat of the fauna will have a great impact on the diversity of the fauna changing over the animals found in the forest area to grassland animals.

Social impacts of this component of development is greater than any other component of the proposed development. Unlawful translocation of trees form islands is a common practice in the current boom of land reclamation and development. The shift of plants form location to location is controlled by law and must be reported to the proper government authorities. Some of the translocation are unlawful as proper permits are not requested for prior to the development. Sadly this is the case even if translocation is carried out under controlled conditions, in good faith, in hopes saving plants, and gaining a profit from plants that would be cut down and burned as the alternative.

The key social impact on the politics of the island. This translocation may seem to the uninformed, as an illegal action and may cause social unrest due to the development. Through the current EIA process, a majority of the locals who attended the stakeholder’s meeting area aware of the project. However, as a precaution the proponent should re inform the locals of the development prior to commencement of work.

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6.3.2.1.3 Backfilling

Backfilling material is borrowed from the slipway area. The slipway area was dredged previously and needs maintenance. The prominent activities for the development are excavation activities, stockpiling in the area of dredging, and moving of borrow material.

6.3.2.1.3.1 Excavation activities

6.3.2.1.3.1.1 Impact of sedimentation

Impact of sedimentation had to be considered separately as this is a major impact that is likely to have a very strong effect on the area momentarily, and on the habitat for an extended period. The loss of habitat due to deepening of the area is permanent, and negative.

During the excavation process, there is a likely chance of increased sedimentation in the surrounding areas if un-mitigated. This will cause a sediment plume in the area that will decrease the bottom visibility of the area, making it impossible for any small crafts that navigate the area to identify familiar structures in the lagoon. This may cause major difficulties for navigation. However, given the distance from the dredging area to the corner bend and the harbor entrance, the chances of an accident is slim. The impact of sedimentation on the habitat could be high. The loss of visibility is temporary but negative.

The overall impact of sedimentation on the natural environment during the construction phase is of concern. Sedimentation will disperse the mobile free living biota while, the sedentary benthic biota will be lost. The proposed mitigation to minimize the negative impacts of sedimentation must be put into place to prevent unnecessary loss.

During excavation with the prescribed mitigation in place, the probability of impact is certain. The significance of impact is limited to the location, the duration of impact is short-term and the magnitude of impact is low for the proposed work. However, in case of breach in protocol and inappropriate mitigation effort, the probability of impact is certain. The significance of impact is regional the duration of impact is long term and the magnitude of impact is high for the proposed work.

6.3.2.1.3.2 Stockpiling

The proposed stockpiling area for the project is the slipway ground. The area has vines and few shrubs and is mostly a costal habitat with underdeveloped shoreline vegetation. Therefore, the impact of stockpiling due to dredging activities will be minimum on ground water table. The diversity of flora and fauna of the footprint will have a direct impact. Land use

6.3.2.1.3.3 Moving of borrow material

Moving of borrow material to the filling sites is likely to cause noise pollution. However, in an island with as many vehicles as M.Mulak it is least likely that it will cause major impacts.

6.3.2.2 Picnic area

Picnic area development involve tree management, and buildup of the proposed development and construction. This work is proposed to be completed simultaneously with the football field.

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6.3.2.2.1 Land / tree management

Unlike the other development of the project, the tree management component involves, transplantation of trees from the footprint of the development to favorable locations and cleaning the undergrowth of the area making the area more accessible.

The impacts involved in land tree management is on the terrestrial environment and the social environment. The impact of the activity on the terrestrial environment is negative. The flora of the development is directly affected as footprint clearance results in removal of plants form the footprint of the development. Further the development results in weeding of the roadside access to the area in all directions except for the beach front buffer area. This will impact the fauna negatively as it will reduce the amount of thick underbrush that animals such as the white breasted Maldivian waterhen ( Amaurornis phoenicurus) (ިލިބނ ަކ ) , and sand martin (Riparia riparia) (ެކިރޮފ) use as habitat. Apart from the obvious impact of land management, land clearance also impacts the habitat of arthropods and reptiles as well due to vibration and other disturbances on site. The overall impact of the development during construction is negative for the flora and fauna. The area is a fishing favourite for the locals, the use of heavy vehicles may disrupt this recreational activity due to the development. However, it is less likely that this component of the development will have an impact on the above stated recreational activity.

6.3.2.2.2 Concrete work

This activity in development requires introduction of permanent structures in the area. The main impact is by using cement and related works. The developments that require concrete structures are, the footprint base of the restroom and the bases of the beach huts.

The main impact of use and development is on the biological environment, and the social environment. The major impacts on the biological environment are, the impact of the flora and fauna due to the use of cement. The limestone that contain silica, iron ore, and clay are often foreign to the fauna and flora of a shoreline habitat, and results in smothering of the flora and fauna of the impact zone if not mitigated properly. Regardless of the level of mitigation, during construction due to the cement used in the process of construction, the general ecosystem quality will have a negative impact.

Among the social impacts of this component of the development the impact on recreation is likely. However, recreation seen on the area so far is the use of the area by the locals as a swimming area. The work is not likely to disturb the activity of the above stated recreation; however, it is likely that the path to the area will be difficult to access during the construction period.

6.3.2.3 Harvesting and Replanting

The harvesting and replanting process is deemed mandatory by the government. As per the requirement the locations for replanting are set and declared by the council for the development. The main impact of this process is form infiltrating the harvesting and replanting areas. The harvesting areas are the development zones and as the zones of development, which is under the impact area in both cases infiltration impact would be greatly diminished by the disturbance from the development activities. However, in the replanting zones infiltration to deliver the replanting

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The overall impact of replanting on the urban areas are positive. The proposed areas are not well vegetated and replanting on the areas will ensure an increase in ecosystem quality. 6.4 Impacts of utilization 6.4.1 General

In general all new developments, specially developments such as this which is anticipated by the locals have a major positive social and political impact. However, the use of the developments also have negative impacts that must be noted, the impacts are below. 6.4.2 Use of the football ground

The football ground of the area has the most environmental impact due to its usage. The football ground upon completion will change the entire land use transforming the plot of land from a forest plot to a complete grassland. This will impact the fauna that inhabit the area favoring more grassland species to thrive in the area. This will also encourage the development of grassland flora on site promoting more grassland species to grow. The above-mentioned impacts are not specifically negative impacts as far as the environment is concerned. the use of the area for sports will kick up a lot of particulate matter and increase the noise pollution of the area. this will have an impact on the fauna of the area with impact on the socio economic environment as this may increase social unrest.

The development if used as recommended by the MYSCE, the development will have a positive impact on the economic growth of the island council and the island. the overall impact of the development is positive. 6.4.3 Use of the picnic area

Use of the picnic area has a lesser impact on the environment than the football ground. The major negative impacts are on the fauna of the general area due to noise. The positive impact of the use of the area is more in comparison. The highest noted impact is on the economy. As the picnic area can be used as an attractor for local food vendors, hospitality industry and other services who can set up shop in the vicinity and on the island to cater for the users.

The area also provides a specific socializing area for the locals, which will have a positive impact on the community. 6.5 Impact on the wetland

The proximity of the development is very close to the buffer area of the wetland and will impact the wetland and the quality of the water in the wetland. Opening of the plot of land removes much necessary topsoil and leaf litter that filters the water before being absorbed slowly to the wetland. The compacted ground of the football area ensures flow over of the water to the natural depression; wetland. This unfiltered water flow will carry with it surface waste and ions that can decrease the quality of the water in the wetland. Similarly, the use of the area by people of all ages will collect inevitable human nitrogenous waste and can again decrease the quality of the water in the wetland area.

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The loss of topsoil and leaf litter from a patch will cause an overall loss in the water retained in the area which will have an impact on the wet barrier surrounding the area. The rescission of the wet barrier/ mangrove footprint translates to ecological change and addition of silt and topsoil to the mix form the development will further promote ecological succession. This can eventually cause the island its food security. Highest mitigation must be practiced for the border within the buffer and the footprint. Monitoring will show if there is a recession of the line.

Using heavy machinery in the area comes with the risk of exposure to vehicle lubricants and other hydrocarbons. If hydrocarbons are released to the area it will have a negative impact on the existing area and water quality. Baseline data shows the tested hydrocarbon content at all sites and should be referred to during monitoring.

Opening up access to the edge of the buffer zone allows easy access to the wetland area. This will allow locals the possibility of entrance to the area and will make the area a frequented area. this will also help the locals manage the area better than now. These are positive impacts of the from management point of view. Consequently, it provides negative impacts if waste management is not implemented.

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After consulting the contractor, and the stakeholders the following alternatives are proposed. 7.1 No project options

No project option is proposed assuming that the football field will not be developed instead, the available spaces that are present on the island will be managed and used accordingly. This includes strict management through booking and scheduling of the available plot of land. Therefore,

• land clearance,

• relocation of trees,

• fencing of the area

• backfilling of the cleared sites and,

• compacting of the football ground

will not take place.

The no project option also assumes no development on the existing picnic area. Therefore, the proposed

• Beach huts • Changing room • barbeque grills will not be developed.

Action Advantages Disadvantages No development option Retention, preservation of the • Social unrest due to for the football ground. environmental condition on inability to foster for the sites . population. This assumes scheduled, • Social unrest du to the active management of the control and management of available space and once a free resource. playground resources on • Social unrest due to halting the island by the local an awaited development. council or any other • Increases the scope of work assigned body. of the council and adds stress to an already understaffed council. • Economic loss for the contractor

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No development option No specific advantages as the • Social unrest and for the swimming area. current proposal is to add a dissatisfaction due to un housing unit and facilities to a fulfilled development plans currently in use beach area • No economic gain from the making the area an official area to the locals picnic area which is more • No hygienic and usable. 7.2 Proposed alternatives

The alternatives were discussed with the contractor and the council. Since the island has limited space and the locations are priest as per the development plan, alternatives had to be decided through consultation with the council and locals. The alternative spaces declared are presented in the letter below.

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Figure 54 declaration of alternative locations

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7.2.1 A1, An alternative for the football area

As per the council the alternative location for the football ground is in the coordinates 2° 56.876'N, 73° 34.876'E.

7.2.1.1 Alternative Football area existing environment

Figure 55 ATS Image for tree count alternative site.

Using ATs imagery and onsite count the total count of plants in the 77 X 123m plot of alternative land were, 146 plants in total. Where in 92 were coconut palms and the rest were breadfruit, circassian, etc.. The plot had at least 46 privately owned banana plants.

Table 30 general description of the tree count in the alternative area.

Tree Categories Number of trees

Coconut palms Cocos nucifera I 92

Other plants 8

Banana plants 46

The area is used by locals as an agroforestry plot.

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7.2.2 A2, An alternative picnic area

As per the locals the alternative location for the picnic area is the north western face of the island at location 2°56'58.44"N, 73°34'50.36"E next to the proposed plot.

Figure 56 ATS Image for tree count alternative site.

7.2.2.1 Alternative picnic area existing environment

Using the ATS imagery, from the plot of 49.90 X 80.53 m 182 trees. The plot is not specified for any specific use.

Table 31 general description of the tree count in the alternative area.

Tree Categories Number of trees

Coconut palms Cocos nucifera I 168

Other plants 12

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7.2.3 A3, An alternative borrow area.

An alternative borrow area proposed is the area located west of the harbour in the GPS location 2° 56.761'N, 73° 34.897'E

Figure 57 ATS image of the alternative borrow area

7.2.3.1 Alternative borrow area existing environment

The borrow area existing environment is mostly sea grass with hard coral, silt sand and rock.

The HC coral cover percentage of the transect is 8% with 24% seagrass under others.

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7.2.4 A4, An alternative method of land clearance. Felling of trees

As identified in the stakeholder’s consultation, the only need of the council is land clearance and the development of a football field. As transplantation of plants has become an issue, the locals have identified felling of the trees in the football field as s viable alternative for them..

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7.3 Alternative options

Figure 58 Proposed development plan for the island.

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Following is a critical analysis of the alternatives. Alternative proposed Technical feasibility Economic feasibility Environmental outlook Social outlook Alternative football areas A1, Alternative football No official permission for As stated, the zone is the The proposed alternative is The proposed development area. the site. If changed need to proposed agricultural zone. far from the wetland area was aimed at fostering for apply for permission from The area is used by locals to ensuring no impact on the the population on the eastern ministry of youth. harvest banana and other wetland. side of the island. agroforestry products. Technically the alternative The alternative area has a The alternative being smaller area being surrounded by Compensation has to be diverse range of flora on and away from the target woodland except for the given to the plot owners site, removal reduces the population, is a social northern side makes it easier before removal which is an diversity of the island as a disadvantage with the locals for the team to clear the area. additional cost for the whole. demanding for the development. development on the eastern The alternative area side. proposed is in the un desired orientation and is smaller than the proposed development.

The proposed area as per the development plan used by the council is the agricultural zone,

A2, alternative picnic area A2, Alternative picnic area No official permission for Working at a location that The environmental impact of The alternative does not the site. If changed need to needs to be cleared to access the alternative is higher than have a variation in apply for permission from the area will increase the the proposed development comparison to the proposal. land survey authority. cost of work. due to difficulty in access.

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The area is thicker in comparison to the proposed site making the work harder for the development.

A2, alternative picnic area A3, Alternative borrow The alternative borrow area Economically there is not The area being further to the A section cut on a reef flat is area is in comparison harder to much difference between the back reef in comparison to likely to draw lagoon fish gain access to, to gain access methodologies for the the proposed borrow area in into the area. It is likely that to the area the riparian zone proponent as the cost of itself is an advantage. this concentration will has to be crossed and the work would most likely be provide locals a recreational local dump yard has to be set. However, a cut section on a fishing spot if close to the crossed However, if the proposed reef flat with no specific use harbour quay wall. borrow area to is used, the is not ideal and increases the chances of secondary risk of hazard. economic gain is noted. A4, Alternative Generally easier than all Economically beneficial the More destructive than the The locals are split in this, methodology , other methodologies. Given material addition will proposed method some who are more Felling of the trees in the the space and distance to provide an economic boost environment conscious are proposed football field. work with, feasible for the locals not in favour of the proposal and those who need this project to be completed as soon as possible are in favour of the alternative.

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7.4 Analysis

Analysis was carried out giving a grade to each alternative based on the technical, economic, environmental, social feasibility, and typical utility of the alternative. All scores were considered giving importance to the existing environment; the social factor, the socio-political environment, and the typical needs of the people. After grading each factor, all factors were summed up and made to a percentage. After which, for simplicity, a percentage was taken in regards to the maximum score.

The following are the alternative scores calculated.

/10

Scale/10

Economic Economic score max

outlook/10

feasibility/10

Final Score/50

Typical Utility Utility Typical

Environmental Environmental

Social outlook/10 Social

% in regards to the the to % regards in

Technical feasibility feasibility Technical Alternative proposed Alternative

A1, alternative 1 1 2 1 1 6 12 30.00 football area

A2, alternative 3 5 2 5 5 20 40 100.00 picnic area

A3, Alternative 1 1 1 2 4 9 18 45.00 borrow area

A4, Alternative 1 2 0 0 0 3 6 15.00 methodology

7.5 Preference

The no project option is technically possible through termination of the contract, and it has numerous conservation merits. The social feasibility of the project is relatively low as a large population demands for the project. Therefore, the no project option is socially not the most ideal option.

All recommended alternatives should score a minimum 50% in regards to the max score. Based on the analysis, A2 is the only alternative that can be recommended as it reached the 50% score. The alternative was considered to allow room for variation of work to explore environmental and social options available for the concept.

The option scores well on the technical and economic feasibility due to not having much of a variation from the proposed option. However, the option scores low on the environmental outlook as the option has a less infiltrated area with ever lesser space to work in. all in all the alternative is graded at 20.

A3 scored the next highest. The option scored high on typical utility as it creates a small fishing area. However, on the other scores it does not reach the mark and can not be recommended. A4, scored the least due to its issues with the size , orientation and the social need for the development on the eastern side of the island.

A4 is not at all a recommended alternative method of work.

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8 Mitigation and management of the negative impacts

Impact of the environment from various activities have been identified in the respective chapter. The mitigation measures for the possible impacts with the estimated cost of the measure have been suggested in this section. 8.1 Impact mitigation

Table below further details the potential impacts identified and details the corresponding mitigation. The mitigation suggested should demand. 8.2 Mitigation cost

The mitigation measure associated with significant cost for land clearance, excavation, and transplantation is given in the table below.

Table 32 Significant impacts, mitigation measures and associated costs

Activity Impact Mitigation Cost (MVR) Land Air quality, Ensure that the equipment used is maintained to prevent 8,000.00 clearance and PM burin MVR concentration Ensure no waste is burned Maintenance due to use of charges. heavy Transportation and disposal of excavation waste should be machinery standard practice where accumulation is prevented and due to development in the island. Top soil flow, To mitigate the impact of unfavorable weather, stalk silt Any form of silt and screens must be installed on the barrier of the work area to wire back silt sediment flow prevent direct water flow into the wetland area/ inland. fencing with out of the geotextile is work area. The barrier encapsulating the proposed footprint should be recommended. appropriate for the existing environment 70,000 .00 MVR Attachment of silt fence at the football ground that opens up to the wetland area, and the flow off zone on both

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sides of the picnic area towards the beach side and into the island.

Figure 59 Successful establishment of silt fence near the riparian vegetation on a upper water shed (Lakel, et al., 2019)

Figure 60 silt fence path proposed wetland area

Increased All construction should be carried out during daytime to Cost of added ambient noise minimise noise pollution. work days Provide year muffs for construction workers while using 100,000.00 machinery MVR

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Loss of • Cutting down trees and disposing should not be Internal terrestrial practiced replantation flora • Only the necessary trees will be removed from site. and ▪ 150 trees form the football field management ▪ Less than 10 trees from the picnic area 100,000.00 • Plants that do not fall under the footprint of MVR development must not be removed. • For every plant removed 2 must be planted on land • Proper land clearance practice to minimize exposure of water pools, and shallow pits • during construction only sand in the root ball must be removed with the plant. • Conducting the land clearance during dry weather conditions. Relocation must be initially on the island, after optimum 5,000 MVR has reached, the remaining should be transported to external sites after planting 2 young plants.

Transportation Death of While transportation care must be taken to prevent the Transportation impacts plants during death of the tree at all cost. 150,000 MVR transportation Place plants elevated on the transplantation. Stacking must be the least favored mode of transportation. However, if stacked, should be to a minimum. Work site Movement of Set roads must be planned, and agreed upon prior to Releasing related vehicles and movement of vehicles equipment and hazards diching of the If a road proves too soft for movement of heavy vehicles, cost roads alternatives must be found and roads must be repaired. 170,000.00 MVR

Figure 61 Track marks of heavy trucks on dirt roads ( source: stock photos)

Hazard safety All chemicals and oils in storage must be bunded and risk Work camp / Work camp and site must be separated using a facade with 20,000.00 site accidents warning signs. MVR

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Figure 62 a Facade at in Male' Maldives ( Source: https://www.naheez.com/2016/11/a-huge-tower-crane-in-nasandhura- palace.html )

Backfill Sedimentation Reinforced Silt curtains ( red) are recommended for the 70,000 .00 material work area demarcation. MVR borrowing Floating silt curtains (Blue) are recommended on location.

Figure 63 Map showing silt curtain locations

Work only at low tide. Social impact Short term Inform the employers of the duration of employment. to the people employment

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9 Environmental Monitoring

The monitoring process is essential to any development project. The monitoring process will determine the level of change during the proposed work, and after the work is done. This also allows the proponent to adjust the methodology depending on the changes observed.

The parameters that are required to be monitored for the project activities are included in the monitoring plan. The objective of the monitoring plan is to monitor and control the environmental effects of the proposed project Therefore, it is highly recommended that the contractor carries out the monitoring plan and present the report to EPA.

The major monitoring requirements are

A monitoring one month after the work commences. Followed by a monitoring every three months throughout the construction phase and a monitoring every 6 months after completion. For one year. The details are in Figure 44

Table 33 monitoring requirements and costing

Parameter Indicator Baseline/ Method technique Frequency Estimated Reference cost values Changes in the Recession of Baseline GPS tracker • 3 month 10000.00 wet footprint the wet in the EIA after the MRF per and dry footprint or work trip footprint of mud path of commence the mangrove the wetland s, area • Followed Changes in Loss of trees consider RTK, and ATS by 15000.00 vegetation in and the survey monitoring MRF per the wetland infiltration of baseline Transect survey every 3 trip weed in the months Changes in the Accretion existing RTK and ATS during shoreline of and recession environm constructio the borrow ent and n area baseline • And No of plants Tree count taken Count using ATS monitoring removed before every 6 Water quality Changes in commenc Probe and laboratory months 4000 of the island the water ement of testing after MRF per quality work NOTE, completion trip changes of Salinity, till one the island . Conductivity, year. pH, TDS, TPH General insect Diversity Take a Kick sampling 5000.00 orders in the observed control Pitfalls MRF per area plot and Light traps trip make a

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baseline, compare with the EIA data Waste Construction ** Overall compliance 500.00 monitoring waste and check MRF per general trip waste

9.1 Monitoring costs

The proponent shall bear the cost of the monitoring. The proponent is to employ competent monitors, to complete the monitoring procedure as per the schedule. The estimated costs are not a fixed value and should be considered as a reference to the monitoring party. 9.2 Monitoring report format

The following is the monitoring report format expected for this project. The report will include details of the site, data collection and analysis methodologies, sampling frequency, and analysis. All data collected in the monitoring period shall be presented in the monitoring without bias. Introduction Aims and Objectives Existing conditions Terrestrial Environment (vegetation, footprint area, groundwater) Comparison with EIA Baseline Data Impact Monitoring Ground water quality Changes in the wet path footprint Habitat change Compliance Monitoring Water Quality monitoring Waste monitoring

Conclusion and Recommendations

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10 Recommendations and Conclusions.

M.Mulak (ށް ލަ މު .މ) is one of the islands on the eastern ridge of Meemu atoll. The island is the only land mass on the reef flat formed separated from the rest of the eastern ridge. The island is surrounded by sea with two major channels on north and south of the island. Consultation reviled that the locals are in need of the proposed developments. The proposed work is limited to development of a football field and a picnic area. Thus, the impact assessment is limited to the stated developments. The proposed project has numerous high impact activities including land clearance, construction work, and excavation of the lagoon area to harvest borrow material.

The development stage of the project requires land clearance, backfilling, tree transplantation and buildup. For the development stage the proponent must ensure;

1. that only the necessary trees will be removed from site. a. not more than 150 trees form the football field b. not more than 10 trees from the picnic area 2. that all the backfill material has to be harvested form a. the proposed site, or b. the alternative site. 3. that all proposed receptor sites on the island must be exhausted before transportation to an external receptor site. 4. that for all plants uprooted, two shall be planted on the island as per the regulation.

The project activities are both terrestrial and marine. The major activity is terrestrial, the marine component is for sand borrowing. The wetland area is at the petrify of the work area with the buffer in place for the football area. If not mitigated, the development of the football area will have a negative impact on the wetland area. Such an instance will cause a negative impact that can have a lasting effect on the island food security and cause numerous negative impacts. The proponent must ensure that the contractor;

5. implements all mitigation prescribed during the work process. which includes, a. the use of silt curtains in the sea b. the use of silt fence and sediment containment methods on land c. all terrestrial work during day time d. all marine work during low tide, and calm weather

The EIA has explored the no project option;

4. it is recommended that the contractor and the proponent explore the option thoroughly before commencement of work.

The EIA has explored various alternatives recommended by the locals;

5. It is recommended that the proponent and the contractor explore the alternatives recommended, if approved by EPA, before completion of the work.

Consultation with the locals revealed a concern for the safety of use for the picnic area

6. It is recommended that the council arranges lifeguards on site before allowing use of the area.

Further, it is highly recommended that the proponent and the contractor ensure construction and post work monitoring as prescribed in the EIA

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To conclude, the locals and the council request the development of the proposed work. According to the locals they are in need of the development to overcome the challenges of accommodating an ever- growing population. If the project is to commence it is not because of the consultant’s recommendation however, due to the social need.

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11 References

Lakel, W., Aust, W., Dollof, C., Keyser, P., Prisley, S., & Wynn Thompson, T. (2019). Effects of Forestry Streamside Management Zones on Stream Water Quality Channel Geometry Soil Erosion and Timber Management in the Virginia Piedmont.

Leopold, L. B., Clarke, F. E., Hanshaw, B. B., & Baisiey, J. R. (1971). A procedure for evaluvating environmental impacts. Washington: US Geological Survey.

Maldives Meteorological Service. (2019). Retrieved from http://www.meteorology.gov.mv/

MEECO. (2018). Environmental management plan for the establishment of island waste management center in Sh. Noomaraa. Male', Maldives: MOE.

Meerow, A. (1997). Betrock’s guide to landscape palms. Hollywood, Fla: Betrock Info. Serv.

Naseer, A., & Hatcher, B. (2000). Assessing the integrated growth response of coral reefs to monsoon forcing using morphometric analysis of reefs in the Maldives. Proceedings 9th (pp. 23-27). Bali, Indonesia: International Coral Reef Symposium.

National Bureau of Statitics . (2019). National Bureau of Statitics . Retrieved from Stastical Yearbook of Maldives : http://statisticsmaldives.gov.mv/yearbook/2019/#

Pittenger, D. R., Downer, J. A., & Hodel, D. R. (2005). Transplanting Specimen Palms: A Review of Common Practices and Research-based Information. Hoeltexhnology, 128-132.

ReefTAC Maldives Pvt Ltd. (2012). EIA for the developement of a slipway in M.Mulah. Male': EPA Maldives.

Rudie, K. H., & Tim, G. (2014). Fishies of the Maldives. Cairns, Australia: Atoll Editions.

The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. (2014). Guidelines on Tree Transplanting. Hong Kong: Greening, Landscape and Tree Management Section.

Tomlinson , P. B. (1990). The structural biology of plams. Oxford, U.K: Clarendon Press.

UNISDR-ADRRN. (2005). Building Resilience to Tsunamis in the Indian Ocean Base Line Study Report, Shaviyani Atoll, Maldives. UNDP.

Watson, G. W., & Himelick, E. B. (1997). Principle and Practice of Planting Trees and Shrubs. Champaign, IL: International Society of Arboriculture.

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12 Team and role

Name EPA Category Contact Role registration Number Mahfooz Abdul (EIA P22/2016) A 9994467 Supervising author Wahhab [email protected] and, internal reviewer Hassaan Abdul (EIA.T03/2019) A 7901665 Author, and Muhsin [email protected] surveyor Adam Saaneez (EIA.T06/2019) B 7890381 Author, and [email protected] surveyor Suhaa Mohamed ** ** 9998383 Data analyst. [email protected]

All CVs attached

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13 Appendix Appendix 1 TOR

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Appendix 2 ATS image

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Appendix 3 Work area Map

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Appendix 4 Work camp and map

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Appendix 5 Stockpile area

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Appendix 6 Survey map

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Appendix 7 Impact zones

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Appendix 8 Drogue map

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Appendix 9 All profiles

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Appendix 10 Bathy map

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Appendix 11 Mitigation map

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Appendix 12 All shoreline data

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Appendix 14 MWSC report

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Appendix 18 All CVs

Curriculum vitae of Mahfooz Abdul Wahhab Personal Details I was born in Ha. Baarah but had to move to Male’ for higher education and since then have been living in Male’ City.

Full Name Mahfooz Abdul Wahhab Date of Birth 10th December 1992 Mailing Address 21012, Gaamaa, Malikuruvaamaa Goalhi, 317, K. Villimale, Maldives Residential Address Gaamaa, Malikuruvaamaa Goalhi, 317, K. Villimale, Maldives Permanent Address Sindbaad, HA. Baarah, Maldives Mobile telephone number +960 9994467 Email Adress [email protected]

Work Experience Currently I am not working in any company as an employee, rather I am giving freelance EIA consulting service to three companies and individual clients.

Freelance Consultancy Company 1 Name Contractors and Consulting Company (CNC) Period of work September 2019 - ongoing Major responsibilities Conducting EIA surveys and reporting Freelance Consultancy Company 2 Name of current employer 2 INSA Pvt Ltd Period of work February 2019 - ongoing Major responsibilities Reviewing EIAs Freelance Consultancy Company 3 Name FENAKA Corporation Limited Period of work May 2019 - ongoing Major responsibilities Reviewing EIAs Previous employer 1 Name INSA Pvt Ltd Position held EIA Consultant Period of work 11th July 2016 – 22nd January 2019 Major responsibilities 1. EIA process Preparing the EIA reports in accordance with the approved ToR from EPA. This involves carrying out the necessary surveys, stakeholder consultations, data analysis and compilations. Furthermore, carrying out environmental monitoring according to monitoring schedules of approved EIAs. 2. Surveying Topographic surveying with GNSS and drones.

Previous employer 2 Name FENAKA Corporation Limited Position held Deputy Manager Period of work 24th November 2015 to 31st March 2017 Major responsibilities 1. EIA process Preparing the EIA reports in accordance with the approved ToR from EPA. This involves carrying out the necessary surveys, stakeholder consultations, data analysis and compilations. 2. Environmental Compliance Acquiring the operating licenses for newly handed over water and sewer systems. This involved getting the necessary documentations from relevant authorities and getting the Operating license from the EPA. Furthermore, environmental monitoring and reporting according to the operating license. 3. Operations As the head of water section, there were 29 desalination plants under my responsibility. Any defects to these systems get directly reported to me and I was responsible for the timely rectifications. From 17th January 2017 onwards I was the temporary acting head for the water and sewer department, which meant I was responsible for 32 sewer systems as well. 4. Technical evaluations I was a member of the technical committee at FENAKA, which is responsible for the technical evaluations of bids submitted to the company as well as all technical proposals and provide technical advice on proposals submitted to the company. 5. Project management Management of water and sewer projects undertaken by FENAKA. This involved communicating with contractors to meet targets and rectify issues that arise during the implementation. Furthermore, I was actively involved in projects run by MEE and Donor funded projects as a focal point for FENAKA. 6. Preparation of technical proposals Preparation of bid documents, ToRs to hire consultants and proposals for various water and sewer projects.

Previous employer 3 Name Seamarc Pvt Ltd Position held Marine Research Officer Period of work 01st June 2014 to 23rd November 2015 Major responsibilities 1. EIA process Preparing the EIA reports in accordance with the approved ToR from EPA. This involves carrying out the necessary surveys, stakeholder consultations, data analysis and compilations. 2. Programme Management There are three major programmes run by the company; reefscapers, marinesavers, and eco-volunteer’s internship programme. I was the programme manager for reefscapers and eco-volunteer’s project. I provided technical assistance from time to time for marinesavers programme. 3. Company management I was responsible for maintaining the necessary permits and approvals for the operation of the company.

Previous employer 4 Name Local Government Authority Position held Administrative Officer Period of work 1st November 2011 – 1st January 2012 Previous employer 5 Name Maldives National University Position held Assistant Librarian Period of work 1st March 2011 – 1st July 2011 Previous employer 6 Name Maldives National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MNCCI) Position held Sales Executive (Boat show Organizing Committee) Period of work 1st August 2010 – 18th October 2010 Previous employer 7 Name M-7 Print Position held Sales Executive Period of work 1st February 2009 – 1st June 2009 Academic Record Primary education was completed in Ha. Baarah. Secondary education in Dharumavantha school and A’levels in CHSE. I completed my degree in Environment Management under a scholarship from Maldives Environment Management Project (MEMP). Currently I am doing Master of Marine Science, which is joint course by MNU and BICOCCA University.

Name and address of Degree obtained Study Medium of institution period instruction from - to University of Milano-Bicocca Master of Marine Science 2017- English Piazza Della Scienza 2, 2126 ongoing Milan and Maldives National University Rahdhebai Higun, Machangolhi, Male’ 20-04, Maldives Maldives National University Bachelor of Environment 2012-2014 English Rahdhebai Higun, Management Machangolhi, Male’ 20-04, Maldives Centre for Higher Secondary GCE A’level 2008-2010 English Education, Male’, Maldives Dharumavantha School, Malé, GCE O’level 2005-2007 English Maldives

Other qualification which I have obtained includes; . PADI Advance Open Water Diver . Certificate II in Information Technology . Permanent EIA consultant . Certificate III in draftsman with autoCAD

Awards which I have obtained include;  3rd Place in A’level national top ten awards Details of Major Projects involved in

I have been in involved in projects from coral reef restoration to water and sanitation. I have also been involved in various coastal development, infrastructure, airport development, agriculture, resort development and renovation, and powerhouse development projects but only in the environmental management of these projects.

Guest house and City Hotel Development Projects Project 1 EIA for City Hotel Development in HA. Utheemu Client Hamid Afeef Duration March 2017 Responsibilities Lead consultant

Project 2 EIA for the proposed City Hotel development at Ha. Vashafaru Client Thalhath Rasheedh Duration August 2016 Responsibilities I prepared the additional information for the EIA report.

Buildings Project 1 EIA for development of 10 Storey Building at G. Ottaru Client Fariz Nizar Duration November 2019 Responsibilities Lead consultant

Project 2 EIA for development of 11 Storey Building at H. Hithigasdhoshuge Client INSA Pvt Ltd Duration 01st August 2018 to 30th December 2018 Responsibilities Lead consultant

Project 3 EIA for development of sports complex in K. Hulhumale’ Client Hunan Ruin Trading Ltd Duration January 2018 Responsibilities Lead consultant

Water and Sewer Project 1 EIA for the Proposed Water and Sewerage Facility at Kan’duhulhudhoo, Gaafu Alif Atoll Client Static Pvt Ltd Duration October 2019 Responsibilities EIA survey

Project 2 EIA for the Proposed Water and Sewerage Facility at Kinbidhoo, Thaa Atoll Client Static Pvt Ltd Duration October 2019 Responsibilities EIA survey and reporting

Project 3 EIA for Sewerage Facility at Ga. Villingili Client Mohamed Musthafa Duration October 2019 Responsibilities EIA survey and data analysis

Project 4 EIA for the Proposed Water and Sewerage Facility at Uligamu, Haa Alif Atoll Client Static Pvt Ltd Duration September 2019 Responsibilities EIA survey and reporting

Project 5 EIA for Development of Sewerage network at F.Bilehdhoo, R. Innamaadhoo, Sh. Feevaku and GDh. Madelavi Client MEE Duration 1st February 2017 to 30th January 2018 Responsibilities Lead consultant

Project 6 EIA for establishment of sewerage network in Aa. Ukulhas Client Static Pvt Ltd Duration January 2018 Responsibilities Lead consultant

Project 7 EMP for Establishing bottling plant in H.Dh Kulhudhuffushi Client Island Beverages Maldives Pvt. Ltd Duration March 2017 Responsibilities Lead consultant

Project 8 EIA for establishment of water network in B. Dharavandhoo Client MEE Duration December 2016-March 2017 Responsibilities EIA survey and report writing

Project 9 EIA for construction of 300m3/day desalination plant at G.Dh Thinadhoo Client FENAKA Corporation Limited Duration 1st January 2016 to 31st March 2016 Responsibilities EIA survey and report writing

Project 10 Construction of water and sewerage system to 120 housing units in G.DH Thinadhoo Client MEE Duration 1st November 2014 to 01st May 2016 Responsibilities I was involved in monitoring and reporting of the project progress to Managers (and other relevant stakeholders) and resolving of any issues.

Project 11 Repairing of the Sewerage system in the new-settlement area of H.DH Maavaidhoo, Kunburudhoo and Faridhoo people in H.DH Nolhivaranfaru Client MEE Duration 1st May 2016 to 31st March 2017 Responsibilities I was involved in the initial inspection of the sewerage system and drafted the upgrade works to pump station according to the engineer. Further I am involved in monitoring and reporting of the project progress to Managers (and other relevant stakeholders) and resolving of any issues.

Project 12 Design and construction of sewerage system in L. Maamendhoo Client MEE Duration 1st November 2014 to 01st May 2016 Responsibilities I was involved in monitoring and reporting of the project progress to Managers (and other relevant stakeholders) and resolving of any issues.

Project 13 Completion of water supply network, household connections and allied works of Adducity Client MEE Duration 1st November 2014 to 01st May 2016 Responsibilities I was involved in monitoring and reporting of the project progress to Managers (and other relevant stakeholders) and resolving of any issues. Further I was involved in the coordination of the water meter changing phase of the project.

Project 14 Establishment of Adducity Hithadhoo central area sewer system Client MEE Duration 1st November 2014 to 01st May 2016 Responsibilities I was involved in monitoring and reporting of the project progress to Managers (and other relevant stakeholders) and resolving of any issues. Furthermore I prepared the BoQs for the connection of gravity lines component.

Project 15 Survey of Sewer System in R. Ungoofaaru Client MEE Duration 1st November 2014 to 01st May 2016 Responsibilities I led the inspection team for the inspection of the sewer system in Ungoofaaru which involved the inspection of Interface Units, Vacuum station, panel boards etc. I compiled the report for this inspection.

Project 15 Survey of Sewer System in H.Dh Nolhivaranfaru Client MEE Duration 1st November 2015 to 31st December 2015 Responsibilities I was involved in the inspection of the sewer system in Nolhivaranfaru which involved the inspection of manholes, pump station, panel boards etc. I compiled the report for this inspection.

Coastal Projects Project 1 EIA for Harbour and swimming area development in Ga. Maamendhoo Client MNPI Duration December 2019 Responsibilities EIA review

Project 2 EIA for Slipway construction in Lh. Hinnavaru Client Ali Shareef Duration October 2019 Responsibilities EIA survey and data analysis

Project 3 EIA for Ha. Kelaa Harbour redevelopment Client MNPI Duration October 2019 Responsibilities EIA review

Project 4 EIA for Sh. Noomara Harbour redevelopment Client MNPI Duration September 2019 Responsibilities EIA review

Project 5 EIA for the proposed access channel in the Agricultural island of Fenfuraaveli, Meemu Atoll Client INSA Pvt Ltd Duration August 2019 Responsibilities EIA review

Project 6 1st Addendum to EIA for Sheet Piling in Hawks Land, Thilafushi, Male’ Atoll Client The Hawks Pvt Ltd Duration March 2019 Responsibilities Lead Consultant

Project 7 Reclamation of Emboodhoo Lagoon for Tourism Development Client SAS Construction Pvt Ltd Duration 11th July 2017 to January 2019 Responsibilities Environmental monitoring of the project

Project 8 EIA for Installation of Oil Storage Tanks at K. Thilafushi Hawks Plot Client The Hawks Pvt Ltd Duration March- July 2018 Responsibilities Lead Consultant

Project 9 EIA for sheet piling in Hawks land at K. Thilafushi Client The Hawks Pvt Ltd Duration November 2017 Responsibilities Lead Consultant

Project 10 EIA for Deepening the entrance channel to the service jetty at Sun Island Resort and Spa, South Ari Atoll Client Sun Island Resort and Spa Duration December 2017 Responsibilities EIA survey and report of existing environment section

Project 11 EIA for Development of Jetty in V. Fulidhoo Client MHI Duration July 2017 Responsibilities EIA survey

Project 12 EIA for Slipway construction in Gulhifalhu MWSC complex Client MWSC Duration April 2017 Responsibilities EIA survey and report of existing environment section

Project 13 EIA for Submarine Platform Development Client Tourist Submarine Maldives Pvt Ltd Duration 1st January 2016 to 31st March 2016 Responsibilities EIA survey and report writing

Road development Project 1 EIA for 2nd addendum to Hulhule-Hulhumale link road development project Client Hunan No.6 Engineering Co. Ltd Duration January 2018 to ongoing Responsibilities Lead Consultant

Project 2 EIA for Road development in Male’ Izzudheen magu Client MHI Duration March-April 2017 Responsibilities Lead Consultant

Agricultural projects Project 1 EIA for Agricultural project in GA. Funadhoo Client Maritech Management Pvt Ltd Duration August 2017 Responsibilities EIA survey and writing existing environment section

Project 2 EIA for Poultry Farm Development in M. Gaakureli Client Aishath Arsha Duration March-June 2017 Responsibilities Lead Consultant

Project 3 EIA for Poultry Farm Development at G.DH Havodigala Client Ahmed Gais Duration 1st March 2016 to 31st May 2016 Responsibilities I was involved in the survey and the formulation of the EIA report to assess the environmental impacts arising from the project. The development proposal was rejected from EPA at scoping stage as Havodigala is a very environmentally sensitive island.

Project 4 EIA for Poultry Farm Development at M. Maahura Client Aishath Arsha Duration 1st March 2016 to 31st April 2016 Responsibilities EIA survey and report writing

Airport development Project 1 EIA for airport development in G.Dh Maavarulu Client Regional Airports Duration March-May 2017 Responsibilities EIA survey and writing existing environment section

Project 2 EIA for Development of airport in G.Dh Faresmaathodaa Client Regional Airports Duration March-June 2017 Responsibilities EIA survey and writing existing environment section

Project 3 EIA for Development of airport in F. Nilandhoo Client Regional Airports Duration March-June 2017 Responsibilities EIA survey and writing existing environment section

Resort development and renovation Project 1 EIA for Partial renovation and upgrading project at Sonevaafushi resort, Kunfunadhoo, Baa Atoll Client Foresight Surveyors Duration October 2017 Responsibilities Lead Consultant

Project 2 EIA for additional Spa Pavilion and Coastal Protection measures of B. Voavah Client Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru Duration August 2016 Responsibilities EIA survey and report writing

Project 3 EIA for the partial renovation and upgrade works of SRL Kanuhuraa Client SRL Kanuhuraa Duration 1st March 2016 to 31st May 2016 Responsibilities EIA survey and report writing

Project 4 EIA for the partial renovation and upgrade works of Six Senses Laamu Client Six Senses Laamu Duration 1st August 2015 to 31st October 2015 Responsibilities EIA survey and report writing

Project 5 EIA for the partial renovation and upgrade works of Four Seasons Kuda Huraa Client Four Seasons Kuda Huraa Duration 1st June 2015 to 31st August 2015 Responsibilities EIA survey and report writing

Project 6 EIA for the development of B.Voavah as a Luxury Tourist Client Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru Duration 1st May 2015 to 31st July 2015 Responsibilities EIA survey and report writing

Powerhouse development Project 1 EIA for Powerhouse relocation at Sh. Narudhoo, N. Lhohi, R. Hulhudhuffaaru and R. Fainu Client FENAKA Corporation Limited Duration December 2019 Responsibilities EIA review

Project 2 EIA for Powerhouse relocation at M.Veyvah, M.Naalaafushi, F.Bileiydhoo and L.Maamendhoo Client FENAKA Corporation Limited Duration October 2019 Responsibilities EIA review

Project 3 EIA for Powerhouse relocation at N. Maalhendhoo Client FENAKA Corporation Limited Duration November 2019 Responsibilities EIA review

Project 4 EIA for Powerhouse relocation at N. Henbadhoo Client FENAKA Corporation Limited Duration December 2019 Responsibilities EIA review

Project 5 EIA for Powerhouse relocation at Ga. Villingili Client FENAKA Corporation Limited Duration December 2019 Responsibilities EIA review

Project 6 EIA for Powerhouse relocation at B.Dhonfanu and B.Hithaadhoo Client FENAKA Corporation Limited Duration October 2019 Responsibilities EIA review

Project 7 EIA for Powerhouse relocation at N. Magoodhoo Client FENAKA Corporation Limited Duration July 2019 Responsibilities EIA review

Project 8 EIA for Powerhouse relocation at Th. Omadhoo, SH. Lhaimagu, Dh. Hulhudheli, R. Rasmaadhoo, HA. Maarandhoo, HA. Uligamu, and SH. Bileffahi EIA for Development of Sewerage network at F.Bilehdhoo, R. Innamaadhoo, Sh. Feevaku and GDh. Madelavi Client FENAKA Corporation Limited Duration 1st March 2016 to 31st December 2016 Responsibilities Lead Consultant

Project 9 EIA for Powerhouse relocation at G.Dh Thinadhoo Client FENAKA Corporation Limited Duration 1st March 2016 to 31st April 2016 Responsibilities EIA survey and report writing

Coral reef restoration Project 1 Coral Frame Project at Cocoa Island, South Male’ Atoll. Client Cocoa Island Duration 1st April 2016 to 31st March 2017 Responsibilities I was involved in the periodic monitoring of the coral frames.

Project 2 Coral Frame Project at Maalifushi, Thaa Atoll Client Maalifushi by Como Duration 1st September 2015 to 31st March 2017 Responsibilities I led the team that conducted the initial transplantation of corals in the resort and trained the resident marine biologist. I am also involved in the periodic monitoring of the coral frames

Project 3 Coral Frame Project at Club Med Kani, Kaafu Atoll Client Club Med Kani Duration 1st April 2015 to 31st March 2017 Responsibilities I was involved in the periodic monitoring of the coral frames.

Project 4 Coral Frame Project at Kuda Huraa, Male’ Atoll Client Four Seasons Kuda Huraa Duration 1st March 2015 to 31st March 2017 Responsibilities I was involved in the periodic monitoring of the coral frames.

Project 5 Coral Frame Project at Kanuhuraa, Lhaviyani Atoll Client SRL Kanuhuraa Duration 1st August 2014 to 31st March 2017 Responsibilities I was involved in the launching of the project in August 2014. This involved transplantation of corals to the frames and its consecutive deployment in Kanuhuraa reef. In addition, the initial monitoring of the frames after transplantation. I am also involved in the periodic monitoring of the coral frames.

Project 6 Coral Frame Project at Landaa Giraavaru, Baa Atoll Client Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru Duration 1st August 2014 to 31st March 2017 Responsibilities I was involved in the periodic monitoring of the coral frames.

Project 7 NOAH Eco-Volunteers Field experience Client Seamarc Pvt Ltd Duration 1st August 2015 to 31st September 2015 Responsibilities The field experience involved getting the diving certificate for the volunteers and how to rehabilitate coral reefs by coral transplantation. I coordinated the entire trip and conducted the coral transplantation training for the volunteers.

Project 8 EIA for Coral Frame Project at Maalifushi, Thaa Atoll Client Como Hotels Duration 1st June 2015 to 31st August 2015 Responsibilities EIA survey and report writing

Project 9 EIA for Coral Frame Project at Kanuhuraa, Lhaviyani Atoll Client SRL Kanuhuraa Duration 1st August 2014 to 31st October 2014 Responsibilities EIA survey and report writing

Other Project 1 EIA for the development of a football ground, access road and water sports area at Mulah, Meemu Atoll Client M. Mulah Council Duration September 2019 Responsibilities EIA review

Project 2 EIA for the expansion of existing football ground in B. Kudarikilu Client Kudarikilu Council Duration March-May 2017 Responsibilities EIA survey and writing exiting environment section

Project 3 EIA for the relocation of Trees from B.Kihaadhoo to B.Voavah Client Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru Duration 1st June 2015 to 31st August 2015 Responsibilities EIA survey and report writing Details of Research Experience Programme 1 Environmental monitoring of sewerage systems Client FENAKA Corporation Limited Duration 1st December 2015 to 30th March 2017 Responsibilities The EPA’s operating license for water and sewer systems dictates to monitor the environmental consequences of water and sewer systems and hence this is not actually a project but a compulsory requirement. However I was compiling the environmental data and analyzing them to understand the impacts of raw sewerage and brine discharged into marine environment.

Programme 2 Reefscapers coral frame programme Client Seamarc Pvt Ltd Duration 02nd June 2014 to 31st March 2017 Responsibilities This programme involves rehabilitation of coral reefs by transplanting corals in reefs on coral frames made from metal coated with sand. In this project the growth rates of different types of corals species were researched by taking periodic photos. Further how the artificially transplanted corals grow to form a reef as part of the ecosystem. Under this programme, coral frame projects were undertaken at Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru, Four Seasons Kuda Huraa, SRL Kanuhuraa, Maalifushi by Como, and Innafushi.

Programme 3 Marinesavers programme Client Seamarc Pvt Ltd Duration 02nd June 2014 to 23rd November 2015 Responsibilities Under this programme there are two initiatives; firstly, the turtle rehabilitation, which involves rehabilitation of injured turtles and returning them to sea once they are properly treated. Secondly the turtle ID program, which involves understanding migratory patterns of turtles by using trackers and photo tagging using the scutes

Programme 4 Coastal protection works at six senses Laamu Client Six senses Laamu Duration 1st November 2014 to 01st March 2015 Responsibilities This project involved the use of geo tubes to prevent erosion in a resort. The idea was to understand how the geo tubes prevent erosion by taking periodic photos. Workshops and Seminars attended Workshop 1 Finite Element Modelling and Modelling with Firedrake and Thetis Conductor Jointly by Imperial College London and MNU Duration 15th July – 18th July 2019

Workshop 2 Urban Solid Waste Management under Singapore Cooperation programme Conductor Singapore Environment Institue – National Environment Agency Duration 13th to 17th February 2017.

Workshop 3 Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) Training Conductor Lectures by Dr. Mushtaque Ahmed. Training arranged jointly by UNOPS, USAID and MEE Duration 19th to 21st June 2016

Workshop 4 IUCN Public Seminar on Environment Economics Conductor Jointly by IUCN and Maldives National University Duration 1st August 2015

Workshop 5 IUCN Coral Bleaching monitoring protocol Conductor Jointly by IUCN and Maldives National University Duration 25th June 2015

Workshop 6 Climate Change Adaption Investment Forum Conductor Ministry of Tourism Duration April 2015 Details of Networks and Memberships Membership 1 Permanent EIA Consultant Description In accordance with the 4th Amendment to the EIA regulation 2012 (No.2017/R-7), the EPA maintains a list of EIA consultants that are eligible to carryout EIAs in the Maldives. I am a registered permanent category A EIA consultant under this list.

Membership 2 Volunteer and member of Maldives Red Crescent Description The Maldivian Crescent has a Branch in Villimale’ who are involved in community awareness programs. I am a member as well as a volunteers to Villimale’ branch providing advice on how to address environmental issues in the community.

Membership 3 Volunteer at Save the Beach Maldives Description Save the Beach Maldives is an NGO based in Villimale’ who are involved in community awareness programs. I am a volunteers providing advice on how to address environmental issues in the community.

Membership 4 PADI Advanced Open Water Diver Description The PADI group of divers are the number one diver’s association group. In order to be a member of the group once must have a PADI diving license. I have an advanced open water diving license. References Academic Referee 1 Name Mrs. Aminath Shazly Designation Lecturer University Maldives National University Location Malé, Republic of Maldives Telephone (960) 7555373 Email Address [email protected] Academic Referee 2 Name Dr. Paolo Galli Designation Professor University University of Milano-Biccoca Location Milan, Italy Telephone (+39) 3497885788 Email Address [email protected] Work Supervisor Referee 1 Name Dr. Mohamed Shareef Designation Managing Director Company INSA Pvt Ltd Location Malé, Republic of Maldives Telephone (960) 7775640 Email Address [email protected] Work Supervisor Referee 2 Name Mr. Hussain Hameez Designation Former Chief Technical Officer Company FENAKA Corporation Limited Location Malé, Republic of Maldives Telephone (960) 7774602 Email Address [email protected] Work Supervisor Referee 3 Name Mr. Thomas Le Berre Designation Managing Director Company Seamarc Pvt Ltd Location Malé, Republic of Maldives Telephone (960) 7787642 Email Address [email protected]

Curriculum Vitae

1. Name: Hassaan Abdul Muhisn 2. Date of Birth: 22nd April 1989 3. Nationality: Maldivian 4. Contact: 7901665 5. Education:

2016 – 2018 M.Se In Environmental Science Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand. 2012 – 2012 University of Mysore B.Ed University of Mysore St.Joseph’s College Of Education, Mysore, India 2008 - 2011 BSc (BTCZ) Programme in Bio-technology, Chemistry and Zoology University of Mysore St. Philomena’s College, Mysore, India 2006 - 2008 Centre for Higher Secondary Education Male’, Maldives Edexcel GCE A/L (Biology, Chemistry, Physics), HSC (Dhivehi, Islam) 2003 - 2005 Majeediyya School Male’, Maldives Cambridge IGCSE (English, Maths), Cambridge GCE O/L (Physics, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Studies), SSC (Dhivehi, Islam) 1996 - 2002 Kalaafaanu School Male’, Maldives Primary Schooling

6. Languages Dhivehi 1. speaking, good 2. reading, good 3. writing, good English 1. speaking, good 2. reading, good 3. writing, good

7. Experience/ Employment Record Date of employment Employer Details March 2018, ongoing INSA.PVT.LTD Positions held: Environmental researcher, analyst. Aug 2015 to MMPRC Positions held: Assistant Director Aug 2016 Feb 2013 to Aug Majeediyya School,Maldives Positions held: Teacher 2015 Summary of Projects Undertaken: 1. Teaching a) Grade 9 and 10 (CIE) b) Grade 11 and 12 (IGCSE) Role: Internal verifier 2. B tech a) B-tech sports b) B-tech arts Role: Invigilation 3. Lead invigilator 1. IGCSE exams March 2012 to St.Joseph’s Convent School, Positions held: Assistant Teacher December 2012 Mysuru, Karnataka 570012, India 1. Biology teacher, for 3rd year high school (Grade 10) (Unpaid, due to student visa status) March 2012 to St.Joseph’s Convent School, Positions held: Laboratory Teacher December 2012 Mysuru, Karnataka 570012, India 1. Laboratory teacher, for 2nd year pre-university (Grade 12) (Unpaid, due to student visa status) Aug 2011, To Dec Seamarc.pvt.ltd Positions held: Environment Analyst 2011 Summary of Projects Undertaken: 1. Setting out, Landaa Giraivaru a) Sea wall near the main pool Role: Setting out survey 2. Setting out , Cheval Blanc Randheli a) the water villas b) reclaimed islands c) arrival jetties Role: Setting out survey

3. Cheval Blanc Randheli a) the coral propagation component Role: Setting out survey Page 1 of 4

Dec 2005 - March Sunset Restaurant 1. Positions held: Billing Clark 2006 Paradise Island Resort, Maldives Sunset Restaurant Paradise Island Resort, Maldives

9. Other qualifications

17 September 2011 PADI Open water Sea explores dive school Bodufungandu magu Male’, Maldives

6 March 2014 In service training Professional development Curriculum Application and Change 1 – 3 April 2014 Invigilator’s Training Department of Public Examinations Male’, Maldives

12 February 2015 In service training Professional development Specific learning difficulties and Mentoring Male’, Maldives

31 March 2015 BTEC Internal Verification and Standardisations 23 April 2015 In service training Professional development Multiple Intelligence & Activity based learning. Male’, Maldives

26 May 2015 PADI Speciality Diver Dive against Debris Villa College Maldives Bodutakurufaanu magu Male’, Maldives

26 May 2015 PADI Reef Check Eco Diver Villa College Maldives Bodutakurufaanu magu Male’, Maldives

27 March 2019 Environment consultant licence (Temporary) EIA T03/2019 Environmental Protection Agency

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10. Publications

H.Abdul Mushin, I. Patawang, C. Phalaraksh, (2018) Chromosomal Aberrations Observed in two Fejervarya spp. living in Artisanal Mining Farms in Pichit Province, Thailand. Proceeding of ISER-107th International Conference on Environment and Natural Science (ICENS). February 10th 2018, Phuket, Thailand ( Awaiting publication in JMES, Journal of Materials and Environmental Science (ISSN: 2028-2508) ) 11 Worked on Bio-diversity Survey Ongoing Conserving Kelaa’s Kandoofa – a Biodiversity Mapping and Food Security Approach, for Ha Kelaa under the Global Environment Facility Small Grants Program OP6. EIA November 2019 Environmental impact assessment for the proposed harbour re-development and (Co- authored) in review swimming area development project at Maamendhoo, Gaaf Atoll, Maldives August 2019, Environmental impact assessment for the proposed harbour re-development project (Co- authored) completed at Noomara, Shaviyani Atoll, Maldives July 2019, Environmental impact assessment for the Proposed Access Channel in the (Co- authored) completed Agricultural Island of Fenfuraaveli. Meemu Atoll, Maldives April 2018, Environmental impact assessment for second addendum to: hulhule-hulhumale (assisted in) completed connecting link road development project,North Male’, atoll, Maldives Monitoring April 2018 Environmental monitoring report - Emboodhoo lagoon Development, south male’ atoll report 6 June 2018 Environmental monitoring report - Emboodhoo lagoon Development, south male’ atoll report 7 July 2018 Environmental monitoring report - Emboodhoo lagoon Development, south male’ atoll report 8 August 2018 Environmental monitoring report - Emboodhoo lagoon Development, south male’ atoll report 9 September 2018 Environmental monitoring report - Emboodhoo lagoon Development, south male’ atoll report 10 Monitoring Period: 27st September Environmental monitoring report Emboodhoo lagoon Development, south male’ 2018 to 20th October 2018 atoll, Report 1 Monitoring Period: 20th October 2018 Environmental monitoring report Emboodhoo lagoon Development, south male’ to 22nd November 2018 atoll, Report No: 02 Monitoring Period: 22nd November Environmental monitoring report Emboodhoo lagoon Development, south male’ 2018 to 10th December 2018 atoll, Report 3 Monitoring Period: 15th December Environmental monitoring report Emboodhoo lagoon Development, south male’ 2018 to 15th January 2019 atoll Report 4 Monitoring Period: 15thJanuary 2019 – Environmental monitoring report Emboodhoo lagoon Development, south male’ 02ndFebruary 2019 atoll Report 5 Monitoring Period: 02ndFebruary 2019 Environmental monitoring report Emboodhoo lagoon Development, south male’ –12thFebruary 2019 atoll Report 6 Monitoring Period: 12th February 2019 Environmental monitoring report Emboodhoo lagoon Development, south male’ to 3rd March 2019 atoll Report 7 Monitoring Period: 3rd March 2019 to Environmental monitoring report Emboodhoo lagoon Development, south male’ 20th March 2019 atoll Report 8 Monitoring Period: 20th March 2019 to Environmental monitoring report Emboodhoo lagoon Development, south male’ 20th April 2019 atoll Report 9 Monitoring Period: 20th March 2019 to Environmental monitoring report Emboodhoo lagoon Development, south male’ 20th April 2019 atoll Report 10 Monitoring Period: 20th May 2019 to Environmental monitoring report Emboodhoo lagoon Development, south male’ 20th June 2019 atoll Report 11 4th March 2019 Blue beach construction monitoring work report 1 20th March 2019 Blue beach construction monitoring work report 2 20th April 2019 Blue beach construction monitoring work report 3 20th May 2019 Blue beach construction monitoring work report 4 20th June 2019 Blue beach construction monitoring work report 5 25th July 2019 Blue beach construction monitoring work report 6

12. Academic referees

Referee Contact Address Dr Chitchol Phalaraksh 0817160209 Chiang Mai University | CMU · Department of Biology PhD Environmental Chiang Mai Toxicology Thailand.

Prof. Marcel.C. Enos 08212511992 St Joseph College of Education Jayalakshmipuram Mysore Karnataka India Dr. Ruth Shantha Kumari T. 9449086598 St Philomena’s Degree College, M.Sc, Ph.D, M.Sc in 821- 4240930 Bannimantap, Mysuru 570 015 Counselling & Phone 0821-4240900 / 4240912 / 4240918 Psychotheraphy [email protected] Fax 0821-4240950

12. Work references

Page 3 of 4

Referee Post during interaction Contact Dr. Mohamed Shareef Managing Director 7775640 INSA Pvt Ltd [email protected] Haris Mohamed Managing Director 7761516 MMPRC Mohamed Hamzeel Chief Operations Officer 7903010 MMPRC Aiminath Shahadha Assistant Principal [email protected] Majeediyya School Anthirious Georgemary Biology HOD, 9144842 Majeediyya School [email protected]

Thomas Le Berre Managing Director 960 7787642 Seamarc Pvt Ltd [email protected]

Page 4 of 4

CV of SUHAA MOHAMED

PERSONAL DETAILS ● Full name: Suhaa Mohamed ● Date of birth: 08th October 1999 ● Residential address: M. Kundi, Fiyaathoshi Magu, K. Male’, Maldives ● Mobile number: +960 9998383 ● Email address: [email protected]

LANGUAGES ● Dhivehi ● English Speaking; good Speaking; good Reading; good Reading; good Writing; good Writing; good

ACADEMIC RECORD NAME AND ADDRESS OF INSTITUTION DEGREE OBTAINED/ STUDY PERIOD COURSE STUDIED (FROM – TO) The Maldives National University (MNU), Male’, Maldives Bachelor of Arts in Architectural Jan 2019 - Ongoing Design Maldives Polytechnic, Male’, Maldives Diploma in Architecture (1st &2nd Jan 2018 - Dec 2018 semester) Centre for Higher Secondary Education, Male’, Maldives GCE A’level March 2016- Jan 2018

Aminiya School, Malé, Maldives GCE O’level Jan 2013 - Dec 2015

AWARDS ● 4th Place in O’level national top ten awards

SOFTWARES ● AutoCAD ● Microsoft Project ● Adobe Illustrator ● SketchUp ● Surfer® ● Lumion ● Adobe Photoshop ● Civil 3D ● Revit

WORK EXPERIENCES/EMPLOYMENT RECORD EMPLOYER: INSA Pvt Ltd DATE OF EMPLOYMENT: February 2018 – Ongoing ROLE & MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES: Assistant Data Analyst; Drafting and drawing both architectural and structural drawings from AutoCAD and preparing 3D models from SketchUp. Processing RKT and other survey data, and making profiles, sections and heatmaps using Google Earth, Surfer & Civil 3D. Also worked with Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator. Preparing project schedules using Microsoft Project.

MAJOR PROJECTS WORKED ON

PROJECT NAME: Reclamation of Emboodhoo Lagoon for Tourism Development CLIENT: SASe Construction Pvt Ltd DURATION: 2018 to ongoing DUTIES/TASKS: I am involved in the structural drafting of the project. REFERENCE: Adam Saaneez & Hassaan Abdul Muhsin

PROJECT NAME: Bio-diversity Survey & LUP, Conserving Kelaa’s Kandoofa – a Biodiversity Mapping and Food Security Approach, for Ha Kelaa under the Global Environment Facility Small Grants Program OP6. CLIENT: IDEAS DURATION: December 2018 to ongoing DUTIES/TASKS: Designing and creation of infographics. REFERENCE: Adam Saaneez

PROJECT NAME: EIA for the shore protection works at Hithathoo, Addu City. PROPONENT: Addu city council WORKED FOR: INSA Pvt Ltd DUTIES/TASKS: During BID preparation: Making maps for BID, using Google Earth and Surfer. During EIA process: Worked as a data analyst. Processed the; 1. Beach profiles 2. Beach cross sections 3. Made the elevation maps 4. Made the maps for the EIA using Google Earth, survey data and surfer 5. Made the lagoon elevation chart REFERENCE: Hassaan Abdul Muhsin

PROJECT NAME: Impact Assessment for the Proposed Access Channel in the Agricultural Island of Fenfuraaveli, Meemu Atoll CLIENT: Bion Pvt Ltd DURATION: June – July 2019 DUTIES/TASKS: 1. ATS Image of the island captured for the EIA 2. Proposed project area map 3. Proposed channel footprints and alternative footprints and marine survey sites map 4. Locations of sea water testing map 5. Tree survey area map 6. Proposed channel dimensions length and the proposed footprint map 7. Proposed Channel dimensions, depth and slope map 8. Footprint of dredge material on site 9. Depth PF1 map 10. Depth PF2 map 11. Depth PA1 map 12. Depth PA2 map 13. Depth PA3 map 14. Beach profile section line 15. Beach profile 1 Section 1 16. Beach profile 1 Section 2 17. Beach profile 2 Section 1 18. Site condition charts PF1 PF2, PA1, PA2, PA3, S1, S2, S3, and S4 REFERENCE: Hassaan Abdul Muhsin

PROJECT NAME: Impact Assessment for the Upgrading of harbor at Sh. Noomara CLIENT: SASe Construction Pvt Ltd PROPENT: Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure DURATION: July - August 2019 DUTIES/TASKS: 1. Map of significant topographic features of the island 2. Survey, sampling map (proposed footprint, alternative footprint, impact zone analysis, marine water sample points & ground water sample points) 3. Bathymetry contour map, harbor area 4. Shoreline assessment map REFERENCE: Hassaan Abdul Muhsin

PROJECT NAME: Second Addendum to Environmental Impact Assessment for proposed harbor redevelopment project at Kelaa, Haa Alif atoll CLIENT: MTCC PROPENT: MNPI DURATION: September- October 2019 DUTIES/TASKS: 1. Current map preparation 2. Tree map preparation 3. Survey map preparation REFERENCE: Hassaan Abdul Muhsin & Adam Saaneez

PROJECT NAME: Environmental Impact Assessment for the proposed harbor re-development, and development of a community swimming area at Maamendhoo, Gaafu Alif Atoll CONTRACTOR: SASe PROPENT: MNPI DURATION: October - November 2019 DUTIES/TASKS: 1. Shoreline assessment 2. Map alignment and final finish REFERENCE: Hassaan Abdul Muhsin

PROJECT NAME: Proposed Construction of Causeway between Gdh. Faresmaathoda and Faresmaathoda Airport PROPENT: MNPI DURATION: - DUTIES/TASKS: 1. Shoreline assessment REFERENCE: Hassaan Abdul Muhsin & Adam Saaneez

PROJECT NAME: Proposed Construction of Causeway between Gdh. Madavelhi and Hoadehdoo PROPENT: MNPI DURATION: - DUTIES/TASKS: 1. Shoreline assessment REFERENCE: Hassaan Abdul Muhsin & Adam Saaneez

PROJECT NAME: Proposed Construction of Causeway between Th. Veymandoo and Th. Kimbidhoo PROPENT: MNPI DURATION: - DUTIES/TASKS: 1. Shoreline assessment 2. Processing geo data REFERENCE: Hassaan Abdul Muhsin & Adam Saaneez

PROJECT NAME: Proposed Construction of Causeway between M. Muli and M. Naalaafushi PROPENT: MNPI DURATION: - DUTIES/TASKS: 1. Shoreline assessment REFERENCE: Hassaan Abdul Muhsin & Adam Saaneez

PROJECT NAME: Environmental Impact Assessment for the development of a football ground, and picnic area at Mulah, Meemu Atoll PROPENT: M.Mulah Council CONTRACTOR: SASe DURATION: - DUTIES/TASKS: 1. Shoreline assessment 2. Site designing, drafting and rendering 3. Survey map (mangrove transects, borrow area transects, water samples, bird survey, kick sampling) 4. Survey data processing and volume calculation REFERENCE: Hassaan Abdul Muhsin

WORK SUPERVISOR REFEREES

Dr. Mohamed Shareef Mr. Adam Saaneez Mr. Hassaan Abdul Muhsin Civil Engineer Civil Engineer Environment Analyst INSA Pvt Ltd INSA Pvt Ltd INSA Pvt Ltd Male’ Male’ Male’ Republic of Maldives Republic of Maldives Republic of Maldives Mob: (960) 7775640 Mob: (960) 7890384 Mob: (960) 7901665 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

1/16/2020 INSA Private Limited Mail - M.Mulak, Football ground and picnic area EIA draft

Hassaan Abdul Muhsin

M.Mulak, Football ground and picnic area EIA draft 1 message

Hassaan Abdul Muhsin Thu, Jan 16, 2020 at 1:41 PM To: [email protected] Cc: Secretariat Of The Mulah Council Mulakatholhu

as per the requirements of the tor, please find attached the EIA. --

Best, Hassaan Abdul Muhsin E. Analyst +960 7901667

200113 3 draft mulah 17 Atoll council copy.pdf 14345K

https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=1ade26466f&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-a%3Ar-4077338249968419870&simpl=msg-a%3Ar48021… 1/1