ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT

FOR THE PROPOSED

PROVISION OF SEWERAGE NETWORK AT GEMANAFUSHI, GAAFU ALIFU ATOLL

November 2017

Prepared for

Ministry of Environment and Energy

Consultant

CDE Consulting, Maldives

ްމިއާޤ ްއެމާޒިނ ާމަދުރަނ ިއަގ ީށުފަނަމެގ އގ

ުރަސައ ްށަޓްއެވާމިތ ްނިއުޢޫރްޝަމ ެގުމުރުކ

ްޓޯޕިރ ާރުކްނާޔަބ ުރަވްނިމ ެނާފްށޮކ

2017 ރަބްމެވޮނ

:ުރާޔިދެއ ެގުޢޫރްޝަމ

ީ ޖ ރަނެއ ްޑްނެއ ްޓްނަމަރަޔަވްނެއ ްފޮއ ީރްޓްސިނިމ

:ްޓްނަޓްލަސްނޮކ ޭއ.ިއައ.ީއ ެގުޢޫރްޝަމ

ް ޑ ެޓިމިލ ްޓެވިއަރްޕ ީއ.ީޑ.ީސ

EIA for proposed provision of sewerage network at Gemanafushi, Gaafu Alifu Atoll

Table of Contents

Table of Contents ...... i List of Figures ...... v List of Tables ...... vii List of Abbreviations ...... viii Acknowledgement ...... ix Lead Consultant’s Declaration ...... x Proponent’s Declaration...... xi Executive Summary ...... xii INTRODUCTION ...... 1 1.1 Purpose of the EIA ...... 1 1.2 Project Title ...... 1 1.3 Project Proponent ...... 1 1.4 Background of the Project and Rationale ...... 2 1.5 Project Scope ...... 2 1.6 Aim and Objectives ...... 2 1.7 Consultants, Contractors and Government Institutions...... 3 1.8 Project Financing...... 3 1.9 EIA Scope and Terms of Reference ...... 3 1.10 Assessment Methodology ...... 4 1.10.1 General Approach ...... 4 1.10.2 The Study Area...... 4 1.10.3 Field Observations ...... 6 1.10.4 Desk Study Review ...... 8 1.10.5 Key Stakeholder Consultation ...... 8 1.10.6 Data Analysis ...... 8 1.10.7 Report Format ...... 9 1.11 Study Team Members ...... 9 1.12 Limitations of the study...... 9 PROJECT DESCRIPTION ...... 11 1.13 Project Location ...... 11 1.14 Project Outline and Project Site Plan ...... 11 1.15 Detailed Project Outline and Work Methodology...... 16 1.15.1 Design Consideration ...... 16 1.16 Work Methodology ...... 18 1.16.1 Site Clearance...... 18

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1.16.2 Mobilisation of Equipment and Materials ...... 18 1.16.3 Dewatering, Excavation and Pipeline Installation ...... 18 1.16.4 Decommission existing Septic Tanks ...... 18 1.17 Project Schedule and Life Span ...... 19 1.18 Labour Requirements and Services ...... 19 1.18.1 Workforce ...... 19 1.18.2 Services ...... 19 1.19 Waste Management, Logistics and Safety Measures ...... 19 1.19.1 Site Office and Temporary Material Storage ...... 19 1.19.2 Procurement ...... 19 1.19.3 Construction Waste Management and Disposal ...... 20 1.19.4 Pollution Control Measures ...... 20 1.19.5 Health and Safety Measures ...... 20 1.19.6 Fire Prevention ...... 21 1.20 Summary of Project Inputs and Outputs ...... 21 POLICY AND LEGAL FRAMEWORK ...... 23 1.21 Relevant Legislation ...... 23 1.21.1 Relevant Environment Legislation ...... 23 1.21.2 Land Act ...... 24 1.21.3 Building Law (Number: 4/2017)...... 24 1.22 Relevant Regulations and Guidelines ...... 24 1.22.1 Environmental Impact Assessment Regulation, 2012 ...... 24 1.22.2 Regulation on Sand and Coral Mining ...... 25 1.22.3 Regulation on Cutting Down, Uprooting, Digging Out and Export of Trees and Palms from One Island to Another ...... 25 1.22.4 Regulation on Conservation of Old Trees ...... 26 1.22.5 Dewatering Regulation (Regulation No. 2013/R-1697) ...... 26 1.22.6 Waste Management Regulation 2013 ...... 27 1.22.7 The Environmental Liability Regulation (Regulation 2011/R-9) ...... 27 1.22.8 Employment Act (2/2008) ...... 28 1.22.9 Immigration Act (1/2007) ...... 28 1.22.10 National Waste Water Quality Guideline...... 29 1.22.11 Compliance...... 30 1.23 Environmental Permits Required for the Project ...... 30 1.23.1 Approval of the concept and site plan ...... 30 1.23.2 Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Decision Note ...... 30 1.23.3 Domestic Wastewater Disposal Consent ...... 30 1.23.4 Dewatering Permit ...... 30

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1.24 Responsible Institutions ...... 31 1.24.1 Ministry of Environment and Energy ...... 31 1.24.2 Atoll Council ...... 31 1.25 Guiding Policies and Documents ...... 31 1.25.1 National Environmental Action Plan II (NEAP II) ...... 31 1.25.2 Waste Management Policy ...... 32 1.26 International Conventions ...... 33 1.26.1 Convention on Biological Diversity ...... 33 1.26.2 International Plant Protection Convention ...... 33 1.26.3 UNFCCC and Kyoto Protocol ...... 33 1.26.4 1994 Barbados Programme of Action for Small Island Developing States – Waste Management Section ...... 34 EXISTING ENVIRONMENT ...... 35 1.27 Physical Environment ...... 35 1.27.1 Meteorology ...... 35 1.27.2 Noise Level ...... 40 1.27.3 Hydrology ...... 42 1.27.4 Marine water quality assessment ...... 47 1.27.5 Ground water quality assessment ...... 48 1.27.6 Bathymetry ...... 48 1.28 Biological Environment ...... 49 1.28.1 Benthic Substrate and Fish Survey ...... 49 1.28.2 Visual Snorkelling Survey ...... 55 1.29 Marine Protected Areas and Environmentally Sensitive Areas ...... 56 1.30 Terrestrial Ecology ...... 56 1.30.1 Flora ...... 56 1.30.2 Fauna ...... 59 1.31 Natural Hazards and Disaster Risks ...... 60 1.32 Socioeconomic Environment ...... 61 1.32.1 Gemanafushi Island Socio-economic setup ...... 61 IMPACT IDENTIFICATION ...... 64 1.33 Introduction ...... 64 1.34 Impact Identification and Evaluation ...... 64 1.35 Evaluation of Cumulative Impacts ...... 65 SIGNIFICANT IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES ...... 73 1.36 Impacts on Natural Environment during Construction Phase ...... 73 1.36.1 Ambient Noise Level, Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Emissions ...... 73 1.36.2 Groundwater and Soil Condition ...... 73

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1.36.3 Terrestrial Flora and Fauna ...... 74 1.36.4 Marine Water Quality ...... 74 1.36.5 Marine Biodiversity ...... 74 1.36.6 Impact on Unique Habitats...... 75 1.36.7 Impact on visual amenity ...... 75 1.37 Impacts on the Natural Environment during Operational Phase ...... 76 1.37.1 Air Quality Degradation and GHG emissions ...... 76 1.37.2 Noise Pollution ...... 76 1.37.3 Marine Water Quality ...... 76 1.37.4 Marine Biodiversity ...... 76 1.37.5 Ground Water Quality ...... 77 1.38 Impacts on the Socio-economic Environment ...... 77 1.38.1 Health and Safety...... 77 1.38.2 Business and Employment Opportunities ...... 77 1.39 Mitigation Measures for Significant Adverse Impacts ...... 78 1.39.1 Air and Noise Pollution ...... 78 1.39.2 Contamination of Marine Water, Groundwater and Land ...... 78 1.39.3 Groundwater Depletion ...... 79 1.39.4 Loss of Terrestrial Vegetation and Fauna ...... 80 1.39.5 Removal of Marine Organisms / Marine Habitat Destruction ...... 80 1.39.6 Occupational Health Impacts ...... 81 ALTERNATIVES...... 82 1.40 “No-Project” Alternative ...... 82 1.41 Alternative Outfall Locations ...... 83 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN...... 85 1.42 Environmental Management System ...... 85 1.43 Management Structure and Responsibilities ...... 86 1.43.1 Project proponent ...... 87 1.43.2 Environmental Consultant ...... 87 1.43.3 Environmental Protection Agency ...... 87 1.44 Management Strategies and Actions ...... 89 1.44.1 Construction and Operation of Sewerage Network ...... 89 1.45 Non-Conformances and Corrective Action ...... 91 1.46 Reporting ...... 91 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PLAN ...... 92 1.47 Introduction ...... 92 1.48 Objectives of the Monitoring Plan ...... 92 1.49 Before Construction ...... 92

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1.50 Monitoring during Construction Phase ...... 92 1.51 Monitoring Report ...... 98 1.52 Cost of Monitoring ...... 98 1.53 Commitment to Monitoring ...... 98 STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATIONS ...... 99 1.54 Introduction ...... 99 1.54.1 Meeting with Ga. Gemanafushi Island Council, FENAKA (local branch), and Ampus Net (Local Cable Service Provide) ...... 99 1.55 Summary of key recommendations and follow-up actions ...... 102 Potential Data Gaps and Assessment Limitations ...... 103 1.56 Gaps in Information ...... 103 1.57 Uncertainties in Impact Prediction ...... 103 Conclusions ...... 104 REFERENCES ...... 105 APPENDIX A – Terms of Reference ...... 106 APPENDIX B – Approvals ...... 107 APPENDIX C – Site Plan ...... 108 APPENDIX D – Water Quality Report...... 109 APPENDIX E – Work Plan ...... 110 APPENDIX F – Bathy Chart ...... 111 APPENDIX G – Survey Location Map ...... 112 APPENDIX H – CV of Consultants ...... 113 APPENDIX I – Commitment Letter ...... 114 APPENDIX K – Acknowledgment of Receipt by Gaafu Alif Atoll Council ...... 115

List of Figures Figure 1.1: Study Area boundary ...... 5 Figure 2.1: Location map of Project Site, Gemanafushi Island ...... 12 Figure 2.2: Locality map showing nearby islands and registered environmentally sensitive areas ...... 13 Figure 2.3: Aerial images of the Gemanafushi Island ...... 14 Figure 2.4: Project Site Plan – (Reduced version) ...... 15 Figure 4.1: Monthly Frequencies of Wind Direction in Gan Meteorological Center 1978-2004 (adapted from Naseer, 2003)...... 37 Figure 4.2: 24 Year Wind Frequency Recorded at Gan Meteorological Center ...... 38 Figure 4.3: Mean Daily Wind Speed and Direction Recorded at Gan Meteorological Centre (1978 – 2004) ...... 38

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Figure 4.4: Mean Monthly Rainfall in Gan (1978-2004) ...... 39 Figure 4.5: Maximum Temperature by year in Hulhule’- 1975-2005 (Source: Hay, 2006) ...... 40 Figure 4.6: Locations where ambient noise level was recorded ...... 41 Figure 4.7: Predicted tides for January and March 2013, based on data supplied by Department of Meteorology, Maldives ...... 42 Figure 4.8: Predicted tides for Jan – Feb 2013, based on data supplied by Department of Meteorology, Maldives ...... 42 Figure 4.9: Predicted tides for Feb – Mar 2013, based on data supplied by Department of Meteorology, Maldives ...... 43 Figure 4.10: Estimated wave conditions ...... 45 Figure 4.11 Observed current flow patterns on the reef ...... 46 Figure 4.12: Number of fish families and species recorded per transect at Gemanafushi Reef ... 49 Figure 4.13 Selected images showing benthic composition near Transect 1 ...... 50 Figure 4.14: Benthic substrate composition along transect 1 ...... 50 Figure 4.15: Select images showing benthic substrate composition along transect 2 ...... 51 Figure 4.16: Mean benthic substrate composition along Transect 2 ...... 52 Figure 4.17: Select images showing benthic substrate composition along transect 3 ...... 53 Figure 4.18: Benthic substrate composition along transect 3 ...... 53 Figure 4.19: Thick seagrass bed observed on the eastern lagoon of Gemanafushi Island ...... 55 Figure 4.20: Thick seagrass bed observed on the eastern lagoon of Gemanafushi Island ...... 56 Figure 4.21: Vegetation observed at proposed Administraive Buidling Site ...... 58 Figure 4.22: Some vegetation observed along the main road ...... 59 Figure 4.23: Vegetation observed at proposed Sewage Treatment Plan Site ...... 59 Figure 4.24: Population Pyramid of Gemanafushi, Census 2014 ...... 62 Figure 5.1: Estimated Affected Area ...... 66 Figure 8.2: Environmental Management Plan for construction and operation phase ...... 88

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List of Tables

Table 1.1: Limitation of the study...... 10 Table 2.1: Wastewater flow rates used to estimate ADWF ...... 16 Table 2.2: Major Project Inputs ...... 21 Table 2.3: Major Project Outputs...... 22 Table 3.1: Maximum allowable concentrations in domestic waste water for discharge into deep sea, NWQG ...... 29 Table 4.1: Key Meteorological Information of the Maldives ...... 35 Table 4.2: Summary of General Wind Conditions from Gan Meteorological Center ...... 37 Table 4.3 Probable Maximum Precipitation for various Return periods in Gan ...... 40 Table 4.4 Average noise levels recorded at proposed project locations ...... 41 Table 4.5: Marine water quality assessment results ...... 47 Table 4.6: Results for water quality testing for ground water ...... 48 Table 4.7: Summary of fish census survey carried out at T1, T2, and T3 ...... 54 Table 4.8: Floral inventory of proposed project locations ...... 58 Table 4.9: Gemanafushi population census figures for 2014 and 2006 ...... 61 Table 5.1: Impact Identification Matrix ...... 67 Table 5.2: Evaluation of key impacts on the natural and economic environment ...... 68 Table 7.1: Summary of no project alternative ...... 82 Table 9.1: Monitoring Schedule for pre-construction Stage (if required) ...... 94 Table 9.2: Monitoring Schedule for Construction Stage ...... 95 Table 9.3: Monitoring Schedule for Operation Stage ...... 97 Table 10.1: List of persons consulted ...... 99

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List of Abbreviations

COADS Comprehensive Ocean-Atmosphere Data Set CSD Cutter-Suction Dredger DO Dissolved Oxygen EIA Envrionmental Impact Assessment GPS Global Positioning System IPCC Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change IPPC International Plant Protection Convention IUCN International Union for Conservation of Nature KWp Kilowatt peak MEE Ministry of Environment and Energy MHI Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure MoTAC Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture MoTCA Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation MSL Mean Sea Level MWSC Maldives Water and Sewerage Company NAPA National Adaptation Programme of Action NE North East NEAP II National Environmental Action Plan II NW North West PV PhotoVoltaic SAP Strategic Action Plan SE South East SW South West TDS Total Suspended Solids THSD Trailing Hopper Suction Dredger ToR Term of Reference UNFCCC United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Kyoto Protocol

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Acknowledgement

The lead author of this report is Dr. Ahmed Shaig

Additional assessments and field assistance were provided by the following team members.

Mr. Mohamed Faizan (environmental impact assessment)

Mr. Ali Moosa Didi (Surveying)

Mr. Ali Nishaman (Stakeholder consultations)

Ms. Aminath Inan Abdul Muhsin (Socio-economic profiling)

Mr. Mohamed Ali (Marine Environment Specialist)

The curriculum vitae’s of the EIA consultants are attached in Appendix H of this report.

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EIA for proposed provision of sewerage network at Gemanafushi, Gaafu Alif Atoll

Lead Consultant’s Declaration

I certify that statements made in this Environment Impact Assessment are true, complete and correct to the best of my knowledge and available information.

Dr Ahmed Shaig

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Proponent’s Declaration

This page is intentionally left blank.

(See Appendix I)

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Executive Summary

This document is submitted by the proponent to Environmental Protection Agency to fulfil the requirements for an EIA under Environmental Protection and Preservation Act. The EIA Regulations 2012 has been used as the basis for preparing this document. The proponent of this project is Ministry of Environment and Energy, the sewerage network was designed by Malé Water and Sewerage Company, and EIA was undertaken by consultants from CDE Consulting.

At present, sewage disposal for most households is by collection in septic tanks, which are laborious to maintain, and susceptible to leakage if poorly maintained. The main rationale for replacing the existing sewage disposal system with a conventional sewerage network is to improve the sanitation facilities and health of the island community.

The proposed project covers five main components: installation of the sewerage network, collection pump stations, sewerage outfall, house connections, and construction of an Administrative Building. The project is estimated to take about 36 to 40 months to complete. All project designs are in conformance to the laws and regulations of the Maldives, and relevant international conventions that Maldives is party to. The key laws and regulations applicable to this project are: Environmental Protection and Preservation Act, Decentralization Act, Environmental Impact Assessment Regulation 2012, Waste Management Regulation, Regulation on Dredging and Reclamation, Regulation on Cutting Down and Uprooting Trees and Dewatering Regulation. Decision Statement for this EIA report, Dewatering permit, and Domestic Wastewater Disposal Consent should be obtained from the EPA prior to commencement of the project.

Gemanafushi Island is situated on a large reef system that forms part of the eastern rim of Gaafu Alif atoll. The island measures roughly 55 ha; census conducted in 2014 reports a population of 1223 people. The island is surrounded by a rich dynamic reef system, the shallow lagoon around the island forms a thick seagrass bed, and terminates to a healthy reef slope on the ocean side which is frequented by a variety of shark species, and diverse range of fish species. The north eastern corner of the reef system is listed an Environmentally Sensitive Area by the EPA, for this reason.

Most of the negative impacts from this project are typical impacts associated with sewerage network and building construction in Maldives. The most significant impact from this project during the construction phase would be potential contamination of islands groundwater lens, marine water, and disturbance and loss of marine flora and fauna. The project is expected to have positive impact on overall quality of islands groundwater, health of the island community, and sanitation system of the island.

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Of particular concern is the proximity of the proposed sewage disposal site to Maahera located on the north eastern corner of the Gemanafushi reef. This dive site is popular with tourists due to sightings of Hammerhead sharks and numerous other marine species. Environment Protection Agency (EPA) has designated this site as an Environmentally Sensitive Area (ESA). Alternative options for disposal sites were evaluated in this EIA.

The key mitigation measures proposed during the construction stage focuses on reducing the most significant environmental impacts. These include measures to prevent accidental spillage, and spill clean-ups, discharge of any groundwater extracted back to the islands aquifer. Relocation of vegetation, and live corals within the footprint of sewage outfall pipeline.

Alternative options were evaluated for the activities that are identified to have significant impact on the environment. The main concern identified as stated earlier is the proximity of the proposed sewage disposal point to Maahera ESA. Two alternative locations were evaluated, in addition no project option was also compared against the proposed sewerage network.

Stakeholder consultations were held with Gemanafushi Island Council, FENAKA (local branch), and Ampus (local cable service provider). The key concern by Gemanafushi council was whether two pump stations would be sufficient, especially as they plan to develop a tourism zone on the southern end of the island. FENAKA stated based on their experience at GA Villingili, two pump stations may not be sufficient to handle sewage, once tourism zone is developed. Ampus requested to setup a grievance mechanism in case any damages to the islands existing cable lines. The following actions needs to be carried out by the proponent prior to the implementation of the project; proponent to present details of the proposed sewerage system to the island council, and FENAKA, and setup a grievance mechanism prior to initiation of the project.

Monitoring plan is designed to assess any changes to the physical environment during construction and operation phase of the project. Estimated environmental monitoring cost of pre- construction stage (if required) is about MVR 112,000. Estimated monthly environmental monitoring cost for construction phase is approximately MVR 90,000. Estimated annual environmental monitoring cost during operation phase is about MVR 125,000.

The management plan for this project is designed to produce a framework for anticipated impacts, including practicable and achievable performance requirements and systems for monitoring, reporting and implementing corrective actions. In addition provide evidence of compliance to legislation, policies, guidelines and requirements of relevant authorities.

The main conclusion of this report is to move forward with the proposed development with the suggested mitigation measures, and alternatives.

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ާސާލުހ ާދާސ

ުރަސައ ެނާފްށޮކ ްށަޓްއެވާމިތ ްނުމާޒިނ ާމަދުރަނ ާފިއަފިވޭރ ްށަމުރުކ ީގްއަރަތ ިއަގ ީށުފަނަމެގ.އގ ީކަޓޯޕިރ ާސާރިދ ިމ

ްޓްނަމަރަޔަވްނެއ ްފޮއ ީރްޓްސިނިމ ީކަރާޔިދެއ ެގުޢޫރްޝަމިމ .ެވެޓޯޕިރ ޭއ.ިއައ.ީއ ާވިއަފިވެރުކުރާޔްއަތ ްނުތޮގ ެގުމުރުކްނަޒަވ

ެގުޢޫރްޝަމ .ެވެންނިއީނެޕްނޮކ ްޖޭރަވްސ ްޑްނެއ ާޓޯވ ޭލާމ ީނަވ ިއަފްށޮކާމުރަފ ްމާޒިނ ާމަދުރަނ .ެވެއ ީޖރަނެއ ްޑްނެއ

ުޢޫރްޝަމ ީކަމުނޭބ ުޑނަގިއަމ ެގުޓޯޕިރިމ .ެވެއެވުނ ްއެއަފިޅެއަޑނަކ ުރިއަޔިދ ްނުމެވެރުކުރާޔްއަތ ްޓޯޕިރ ިމ ުކަރަޓްކެރްޓްނޮކ

.ެވެމުޅެހަށުހ ްށައ ޭއ.ީޕ.ީއ ްއަތުތާމޫލުއަމ ާވްނުނޭބ ްށައަދްއުހ ެގީށެވާމިތ ާވްނުނޭބ ިއަކަޓްށަމުގްނިހ

ްއަތީގްނާތ ްކިޓްޕެސ ާވިއަފިދެހ ްށަމުދްނިހ ްނެފްސިޖަނ ުތުގަވިމ ީނަވިއަފިހެޖަމަހ ްށަމުގްނިހ ުއޫރްޝަމ ިމ ިއަގީށުފަނަމެގ

ދުވަސްވެ، ރަށުގެ ފެންފަށަލައަށް ނަޖިހުގެ އަސަރުކުރަމުންދާތީވެ ނިކުންނަ މައްސަލަތައް ހައްލުކުރުމުގެ މަޤްސަދުގައެވެ. މި

ާވިއަގީރިތ ްނުށަދ ެގުއޫރްޝަމ ިމ .ެވެއަގޭރެތޭދ ާހަމ 40 ާހަމ 36 ީނެވެރުކ ާފަލ ްށަމަކ ެނޭވެލާމްނިނ ްށޮކ ްތަކްއަސަމ

.ެވެއެވިއަފިޅެއަޑނަކ ްށަމުރުކ ްއަތްތަކްއަސަމ

ްނުލުޅަވ ްއަތިޅޮހ ާމަދުރަނ .1

ްނުދެހ ްއަތްނަޝޭޓްސ ްޕްނަޕ .2

ްނުޅުގ ިޅޮހ ާމަދުރަނ ްށަޔެގޭގ .3

ްނުޅެއ ްތާރާމިއ ްވިޓޭރްޓްސިނިމްޑެއ .4

ާވިއަފިޅެއަޑްނަކ ްށަމުރުކްތަކްއަސަމ ިއަގުކަތުދިއާވަގ ިއާކަތުނޫނާގ ެގޭޖްއާރިހެވިދ ީކަތަކްއަސަމ ާރުކ ްނުށަދ ެގުއޫރްޝަމ ިމ

ިށެވާމިތ ެގޭޖްއާރިހެވިދ :ީކަކަތުދިއަވަގ ާވުމްނިހުމ ްށައެއޫރްޝަމިމ ްނުތޮގެއ .ެވެކެކަތްތަކްއަސަމ ެނާދްނެގިވެރުކ ްނުށަދ ެގުތޮގ

ރައްކާތެރިކޮށް ދެމެހެއްޓުމާބެހޭ ގާނޫނާއި (93/4)، ވަޒީފާއާއި ބެހޭ ގާނޫނާއި (2008/2)، ދިވެހި ރާއްޖޭގެ އިމިގްރޭޝަންގެ

ގާނޫނާއި (2007/1)، ތިމާވެއްޓަށް އަސަރު ފޯރާނެ މިންވަރު ބަޔާންކުރާ ރިޕޯޓު ހެދުމާއި ބެހޭ ގަވާއިދާއި 2012، ކުނި

މެނޭޖުކުރުމާއިބެހޭ ގަވާއިދާއި، ތިމާވެއްޓަށްދޭ ގެއްލުންތަކަށް ޖޫރިމަނާ ކަނޑަ އެޅުމާއި ބަދަލު ހިފުމުގެ ގަވާއިދެވެ.

ީލަމައ ްސެވަމަންނެހެއ .ެވެއެނާވްއެކަތާދިއަފ ީއާމިތްޖިއ ްށަށަރ ްނުބަބަސ ެގުއޫރްޝަމިމ ިއަގުތޮގެނުވެރުކަގަހާފ ްނިއާސާރިދިމ

ްއެކަތްނުލްއެގ ްށަލުއަހާމ ެގުށަރ ިއާޑނަކ ިއަގޭރެތ ެގުކަތުރަސައ ޭވެދޭނ ާރުކ ްށަޓްއެވާމިތ ިއަގާލަޚުރަމ ެގުތަކްއަސަމ

ލިބިގެންދެއެވެ. އެގޮތުން ކަނޑުގެ ލޮނު ތަޣައްޔަރުވުމާއި، ކަނޑުގެ ދިރުންތަކަށް ގެއްލުން ލިބުމާއި، މަސައްކަތުގެ އަޑުގަދަވުމުގެ

.ެވެއެދްނެގިބިލ ްއެކަތްނުލްއެގ ްނުބަބަސ

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EIA for proposed provision of sewerage network at Gemanafushi, Gaafu Alif Atoll

ރިޕޯޓުގައި ބަޔާންކޮށްފައިވާ ތިމާވެއްޓަށް ކޮށްފާނެ އަސަރުތައް ކުރާމިންވަރު ދެނެގަތުމަށާއި، އެފަދަ ކަމަކުން ލިބިދާނެ ގެއްލުން

ކުޑަކުރުމަށާއި، އަދި މި ރިޕޯޓުގައި ބަޔާންކުރެވިފައިނުވާ ކަމެއް ކުރިމަތިވެއްޖެ ޙާލަތެއްގައި އެކަންކަން ދެނެގަތުމަށްޓަކައި

ާވިއަފިހެޖަމަހ ްށަމުލެބ ްނުތޮގިމ .ެވެއެވިއަފިހެޖަމަހ ްށަމުރުކްނީރްކްސ ްނަކްނަކ ަދަފިމ ިއަގުކަތާލަޙުރަމ ިކެއ ެގުޢޫރްޝަމ

މައިގަނޑު ކަންތައްތަކުގެ ތެރޭގައި، މޫދުގެ ލޮނަށް އަންނަ ބަދަލު މޮނީޓަރކުރުމާއި، ރަށުގެ ފެނަށް އަންނަ ބަދަލުތައް ބަލާ

ުރުކ ްސެވާހީވ ްނުތޮގ ެގުމުރުކަޑުކ ްނުލްއެގ ެނާދިބިލ ްށަޓްށެވާމިތ ެގުދްއަޙަރަސެއ ްނުރުތިއ ެގުމަކިމ .ެވެއެނެމިހ ްނުރުކާސާރިދ

މުއްދަތެއްގެ ތެރޭގައި ޢަމަލީ މަސައްކަތް ކޮށްނިންމުމާއި، ފަޅާއި މުރަކަތަކަށް ލިބިދާނެ ގެއްލުންތަކާއި ފަޅުތެރޭގައިވާ މުރަކަތަކުގެ

.ެވެއެވްނެގިވެދެއ ްނުވުރުކ ިރެތްނުލޭހ ްނުފަޒްއަވެމ ުދެމ ާރުއަދ ުމްއިހުމ

ިއަގްޓޯޕިރިމ ްސެވަމަންނެހެއ .ެވެއެވްނެގީށަކެއ ްނުއައ ްއެކަތުލަދަބ ްސެވެމްނޮކްށަޓްއެވ ެގުށަރ ްނުބަބަސ ެގުއޫރްޝަމ ިމ

ާރުކ ްނުބަބަސ ެގުކަތުލަދަބ ަދަފުނުވެންނެދ ިއަގީތަމ ަމަނިފްސޮގްނެގ ްށައިރުކ ުޢޫރްޝަމ ެވުލާމަސ ްށަމަކްނަކ ާވިއަފިވެރުކަގަހާފ

ިރުހ ާދިއަފ ުނަހުނ ްށަންނުތިޔްއަރ ީކައުޢޫރްޝަމ ިމ ިއަގްއެތޮގަލްމުޖ .ެވެއެނާދިވެރުކަޑުކ ްށަޑޮބ ްށަރަވ ްށަތުރަސައ ޭވެދޭނ

.ެވެކެއުޢޫރްޝަމ

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EIA for proposed provision of sewerage network at Gemanafushi, Gaafu Alif Atoll

1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Purpose of the EIA

This Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) report is an evaluation of the potential environmental impacts the proposed sewerage network construction and operation project at Gemanafushi Island, located in Gaafu Alif Atoll.

This document is submitted by the proponent to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to fulfil the requirements for an EIA under the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act (EPPA) of the Maldives (4/93), specifically clause 5 of the Act which states that a report should be submitted before implementation of any project that may have a potential impact on the environment.

This report provides the background to the proposed project components as well as an assessment of their likely environmental and social impacts, both beneficial and adverse. The proposed enhancement and mitigation measures are outlined where necessary together with an environment management plan and a monitoring programme.

1.2 Project Title

The project is called Provision of Sewerage Network at Gemanafushi Island, Gaafu Alif Atoll.

1.3 Project Proponent

The proponent of this project is Ministry of Environment and Energy (MEE). MEE is the government agency responsible for planning implementing water and sanitation systems in the islands of Maldives. The ministry is currently implementing a number of water and sanitation projects across Maldives.

Contact details of the proponent are:

Ministry of Environment and Energy

Green Building, Handhuvaree Hingun, Maafannu, Male’, 20392

Republic of Maldives

Tel: + (960)-3018300, Fax: + (960)-3018301

Email: [email protected]

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EIA for proposed provision of sewerage network at Gemanafushi, Gaafu Alif Atoll

1.4 Background of the Project and Rationale

Presently sewage disposal for most households is by collection in septic tanks. The septic tanks invariably leak. As there is no organized collection regime the tanks are equipped with dispersion pipes, which allow the liquid to disperse into the aquifer. Consequently, the areas around the septic tank become saturated and generate unpleasant odours.

Furthermore, as well as polluting the aquifer, the leaking effluents infiltrate into nearby open wells, subsequently contaminating well water. Although open wells in each household are rarely used for drinking or cooking they are used for washing and other domestic purposes. This carries the risk of serious health hazards to the population by the transmission of water-borne diseases. Septic tanks are only an acceptable form of collection where they are leak proofed, regularly emptied, and where there is a facility to treat the collected waste.

Accordingly, government of the Maldives have initiated projects to develop sewerage facilities in the atolls with an overall objective of improving the sanitation system and health of island communities. This project is being undertaken as part of this initiative.

1.5 Project Scope

This project is designed to replace the existing ad-hoc wastewater disposal method at Gemanafushi Island, with a conventional gravity sewer system. The project is divided into two main phases: construction and operation phases.

The key components of the construction phase includes:

1. Installation of sewerage network 2. Installation of collection pump stations (2 stations) and pumping mains 3. Installation of sewerage outfall 4. Installation of house connections 5. Construction of administrative building

The key components of operation phase includes:

1. Maintenance and repair works

Details of project are presented in the next chapter.

1.6 Aim and Objectives

The overall aim of this project is to improve the current sanitation system, and enhance the quality of life of residents by establishing a proper wastewater disposal system.

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EIA for proposed provision of sewerage network at Gemanafushi, Gaafu Alif Atoll

The specific objectives of this project are as follows:

- Develop the infrastructure and facilities to operate the sewerage system - Locate, design, and operate all project facilities in a manner that results in minimal impact to the natural and socio-economic environment; and - Ensure project compliance to all national laws, regulations, and relevant guidelines.

1.7 Consultants, Contractors and Government Institutions

All the EIA related work was undertaken by consultants from CDE Consulting. Design criteria and technical specifications have been developed by Male’ Water and Sewerage Company (MWSC). Contractor was not appointed at the time of preparation of this EIA. .

The Government agency relevant to this development is Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

1.8 Project Financing

Government of Maldives will be funding the implementation of this project.

1.9 EIA Scope and Terms of Reference

The scope of this EIA is broadly based on the EIA Regulations 2012. The assessment more specifically adheres to the Terms of Reference (ToR) issued by the EPA on 22 October 2017 (ToR number: 203-EIARES/438/2017/159). The ToR is based on scoping meetings held at the EPA on 19 October 2017. A copy of the ToR is attached in Appendix A.

The EIA report contains the following main aspects:

• A description of the project including the need for the project, how the project will be undertaken, full description of the relevant parts of the project, methodology used in the assessment, implementation schedules, site plans and summary of project inputs and outputs (Chapter 1 and 2).

• A description of the pertinent national and international legislation, policies, regulations and policies that are relevant and applicable to the project and a demonstration of how the project conforms to these aspects (Chapter 3).

• Information about the exiting baseline environmental conditions of the site. These include terrestrial and marine environment of the site and natural hazard vulnerability of the site (Chapter 4).

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EIA for proposed provision of sewerage network at Gemanafushi, Gaafu Alif Atoll

• An assessment of the potential impacts during both construction and operational stages of the project as well as identification and cost of the potential mitigation measures to prevent or reduce significant negative impacts during both construction and operation stages of the project (Chapter 5 & 6).

• Assessment of alternatives for the proposed project (Chapter 7)

• Environment Management Plan (Chapter 8)

• Details of the environmental monitoring plan (Chapter 9).

• Potential gaps in information (Chapter 10)

• Main conclusions (Chapter 11)

1.10 Assessment Methodology

1.10.1 General Approach

This EIA is broadly guided by the EIA Regulation 2012.

This report has been prepared to ensure that the significant environmental and social impacts of the proposed project at the preconstruction, construction, operation and demobilising stages have been considered and assessed at the project planning phase.

The process followed in the preparation of this EIA report consists of six parts. These are: scoping consultations; literature review; field surveys; stakeholder consultations; analysis of results; and compilation of the assessment in the form of a report.

In order to conduct a broad based and inclusive study, the proponent and the consultant have from the onset ensured the exercise is participatory. As such, discussions have been held with community members in the projects area and relevant stakeholders with the assistance and coordination of the proponent.

1.10.2 The Study Area

The area impacted by projects like these can be quite wide particularly when the socio-economic impacts are considered. The study area of this project considers the entire island and the reef system.

Based on the results of the initial scoping of potential environmental impacts and the identification of sensitive aspects of the environment the following geographical areas were identified as likely to be affected at the various stages of the Project:

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EIA for proposed provision of sewerage network at Gemanafushi, Gaafu Alif Atoll

− During construction temporary and permanent impacts will occur primarily on Gemanafushi Island, and its reef system. The most direct physical impact will be on-site in the area of the actual physical interventions, particularly the excavation, and pipe-layout area including the sewage out fall pipeline area, pump stations, and administrative building area. To ensure the impacts are fully covered the entire island environment system is studied.

− During operation of the sewerage networks, the project is expected to bring about positive impact to the groundwater condition, and overall health of the resident population. However direct discharge of raw sewage to reef, and damage to the pipe network has the potential to contaminate ground and seawater, and adversely impact the reef ecosystem. Study area boundary is presented in Figure 1.1 and survey locations map for the project is attached in Appendix G.

Figure 1.1: Study Area boundary

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EIA for proposed provision of sewerage network at Gemanafushi, Gaafu Alif Atoll

1.10.3 Field Observations

Field assessments were undertaken on the site between 26th October and 27th October 2017. Field visits mainly covered reef system, bathymetry, vegetation, lagoon physiography, wave conditions assessment, water quality and fauna assessment of the proposed project site. In addition, public and stakeholder consultations were carried out in the island, specifically for this EIA.

Coastal Processes

Lagoon currents were measured using drogue method. About 3 measurements were undertaken from every site and an average value is determined.

Tide data has been taken from Male’ International Airport Tide Gauge.

Wave patterns have been estimated using secondary studies and visual field assessments.

Terrestrial Flora and Fauna

Terrestrial fauna was not surveyed in detail as the occurrence fauna was found to be minimal during the brief survey period.

Marine Assessments

Manta tow survey

Manta tow survey was conducted to determine the general benthic cover and reef condition along the study area. A snorkeler (observer) was towed behind a slow moving boat, along the reef edge for a series of set periods of 2 minutes. At each stop the observer noted down the estimate percentage coverage of live corals, dead corals, sand/silt and rubble along the tow area. The GPS coordinates were recorded at the start and end of each new tow.

Photo Quadrat Survey

The benthic composition of the substrate was assessed by taking ten high-resolution images every 5 m (pictures covering 0.5m2 of the seabed) along the same transect line used for the fish surveys. These were later analysed using CPCe. CPCe, or Coral Point Count with excel extension, developed by the National Coral Reef Institute, is software designed to determine coral community coverage and diversity using transect photographs. Underwater photographic frames are overlaid by a matrix of randomly generated points, and the fauna/flora of species or substrate type lying beneath each point is identified. 20 random points per picture were analysed to characterize the substrate composition (sample size: 200 points per transect).

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EIA for proposed provision of sewerage network at Gemanafushi, Gaafu Alif Atoll

Fish census

Fish and invertebrates species assemblages and abundance was surveyed using 50 m line transects, whereby the monitor swam along transect and recorded the number and the different species of fish and invertebrates observed within 2.5 m either side of the transect line.

A category-based methodology was adopted to estimate fish abundance and the mean number of fish per category and observation was extracted to estimate species and family abundance. The categories used to estimate abundance. Category 1: 1, 2: 2-4, 3: 5 – 16, 4: 17 – 64. 5: 65 – 256.

Visual Snorkelling Survey

Visual snorkelling surveys were carried out at select locations of the lagoon. General status of these sites were recorded, special attention was given to types of corals and fishes present at these sites and the environmental conditions that could affect growth such as suspended solids, depth, and other threats to coral life.

Water Quality

Water quality was assessed from MWSC Water Quality Assurance Laboratory. Water quality samples were taken at different locations selected based on proposed developments. Parameters measured for seawater tested were pH, Salinity, Electrical Conductivity, Total Dissolved Solids, Dissolved Oxygen, Turbidity, Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD), Total Suspended Solids (TSS), and Total Coliform, and Faecal Coliform.

Groundwater quality was temperature, pH, Electrical Conductivity, Chloride, Ammonia, Sulphate, Nitrate, BOD, Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), Total Coliform, Faecal Coliform.

Flora

Vegetation cover around the project sites were assessed using the Transect Method, where an observer documents the number, species and approximate height of the trees on the left and right of a transect line.

Fauna

Faunal species were observed and recorded as specific types with the observations spanning for a 12 hour period during the surveys.

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EIA for proposed provision of sewerage network at Gemanafushi, Gaafu Alif Atoll

Bathymetry and topographic survey

The bathymetric survey was conducted using the Sonarmite Echo-sounder coupled with the RTK GPS attached to a survey vessel. The bathymetric survey conducted using a 25 m grid with data collected up to the reef line.

Vertical control was established by doing a tide observation on site during the surveyed period. The observation was calculated and reduced to the MSL using the predicted tide table provided by Maldives Metrological Service, (UH SEA LEVEL CENTER Data). Predicted tide data of Hulhule’ tide station was used for the corrections.

1.10.4 Desk Study Review

A literature review was conducted to acquire background information on the site and its environment as well as to identify possible environmental impacts of similar developments in island settings. In this context, the EIA Regulations 2015, best practices from similar development activities, scientific studies undertaken in similar settings around Maldives and previous documents/historical publications was considered.

The literature review comprised of, but is not limited to, the following:

• Master plan concept prepared by Male’ Water and Sewerage Company

• Relevant national laws, regulations, guidelines.

• Environment Impact Assessment Report for Sewerage System in Noonu Miladhoo.

1.10.5 Key Stakeholder Consultation

Stakeholder consultations were undertaken with the following stakeholders:

• Island Council

• General Public of Gemanafushi

• Utility Providers

1.10.6 Data Analysis

The EIA experts used their experience and knowledge in their respective fields to analyse the data from the previous studies and field visits in order to determine the potential impacts of the proposed projects, the severity of effects arising from these impacts and how any adverse impacts can be best mitigated and positive impacts enhanced. This analysis provides the framework for the recommendations on corrective actions and remedial measures and provides

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EIA for proposed provision of sewerage network at Gemanafushi, Gaafu Alif Atoll

the basis for the formulation of the environmental management plan which forms part of this report EIA.

1.10.7 Report Format

The report format and structure presented here follows the report formatting guidelines issued by EPA.

1.11 Study Team Members

The team members of this EIA are: Dr. Ahmed Shaig (EIA and coastal environment Specialist) Mr. Mohamed Faizan (Marine environment assessment) Mr. Ali Nishaman (Terrestrial environment assessment) Mr. Ali Moosa Didi (Surveying & Mapping) Ms. Aminath Inan Abdul Muhsin (Socio-economic Data compilation) Mr. Mohamed Ali (Marine Environment Specialist)

The curriculum vitae’s of the EIA consultants are attached in Appendix H of this report.

1.12 Limitations of the study

Project information and planning and background data were not fully prepared or decided during the conduct of this study. However, available documents in connection with data provided particularly the concept plan, experiences of CDE in other islands, particularly in the numerous sewerage network development assessments were used as the basis for preparation of this document. Therefore, it will be possible to analyse, implement mitigation and suggest monitoring measures to the most relevant negative impacts.

Environmental impact prediction involves a certain degree of uncertainty as the natural and anthropogenic impacts can vary from place to place due to even slight differences in ecological, geomorphological or social conditions in a particular place. As noted earlier, there is also no long term data and information regarding the particular site under consideration, which makes it difficult to predict impacts. However, the level of uncertainty is partially minimised due to the experience of sewerage network operation in similar settings in the Maldives. Nevertheless, it is important to consider that there will be uncertainties and voluntary monitoring of natural processes as described in the monitoring programme is absolutely essential.

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EIA for proposed provision of sewerage network at Gemanafushi, Gaafu Alif Atoll

Table 1.1: Limitation of the study

Issue/Item Required Information Current Status / action Detailed Master Approved final master plan for the At present, there is a concept plan Plan project. but the detail design was pending at the time of the EIA preparation. Details can only be finalized EIA approval. Engineering Detailed engineering designs for the Details can only be worked out designs land based structures to determine the after the EIA approval. extent of excavations. Natural Hazard Detailed modelling of flooding and Data not available at local level; Risks storm damage risks use broad level studies undertaken for Maldives Environmental Historical and long-term records on Baseline snapshots of the site taken baseline data reef and lagoon environment. to design mitigation measures Detailed data on geology, Estimated based on other similar hydrogeology and soil. studies in Maldives Long-term site specific or even Snapshot data for currents taken; regional data (at least 2 years). Most wave studies in Baa atoll used. critical data include current Air quality measurements Assumed as pristine Socio-economic data of Gemanafushi Primary date collection will be time Island consuming; Secondary sources will be used Environmental Environmental Standards for Air and USEPA standards followed Standards Noise Quality Hydro-dynamic Long to Medium-term site specific Not enough time to collect data; no Modelling data facilities in Maldives to undertake high level modelling; As a results these tasks as specified in the ToR has not been carried out. Sewage dispersal Long to Medium-term site specific Not enough time to collect data; no modelling data facilities in Maldives to undertake high level modelling As a results these tasks as specified in the ToR has not been carried out.

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EIA for proposed provision of sewerage network at Gemanafushi, Gaafu Alif Atoll

2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION

2.1 Project Location

The proposed project site encompasses the whole island of Gemanafushi, and its reef system situated in Huvadhu Atholhu Uthuruburi (Gaafu Alif Atoll). The island is located approximately 0.44347, 73.568718 (Figure 2.1). Gemanafushi Island is a moderately sized island with a total land area of about 55 ha. Gemanafushi Island is about 37 km from the capital Vilingili Island of Gaafu Alif atoll. Nearest inhabited island to the project site are Kondey (5 km to north) and Kanduhulhudhoo (10 km to the south). The nearest domestic airport is Koodoo Domestic Airport (34 km to the north). An aerial image of the site is provided in Figure 2.3. The islands in the project vicinity are presented in Figure 2.2.

The north eastern corner of the reef system of Gemanafushi (Maareha Kandu) is listed as an Environmentally Sensitive Area (ESA) by the EPA (Figure 2.3). It is identified as a recreational diving location to spot sharks, such Tiger Shark, Grey Reef Sharks Hammerhead Sharks, and also Marlin and Sailfish. The only Marine Protected Area (MPA) in Gaafu Alif Atoll is Hithaadhoo (located over 57 km north west of Gemanafushi Island).

2.2 Project Outline and Project Site Plan

The project involves construction and operation of a gravity sewerage reticulation network, two reticulation pumping stations, and pressure main system along with an ocean outfall.

The proposed concept plan is presented in Appendix C. A Reduced version of the concept plan is provided in Figure 2.4.

Details of the proposed project components are outlined in the next section. The project boundary and estimated impact zones are identified in Figures 5.1 below.

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EIA for proposed provision of sewerage network at Gemanafushi, Gaafu Alif Atoll

Figure 2.1: Location map of Project Site, Gemanafushi Island

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Figure 0.2: Locality map showing nearby islands and registered environmentally sensitive areas

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Figure 0.3: Aerial images of the Gemanafushi Island

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Figure 2.4: Project Site Plan – (Reduced version)

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2.3 Detailed Project Outline and Work Methodology

2.3.1 Design Consideration

The concept plan for this project is presented in Appendix C. Key features are components of the proposed sewerage system is provided below:

• Type: Conventional Sewerage System • Number of Pump Stations: 2 (including disposal pump station) • Total number of Manholes: 213 • Total length of gravity main: 8,835 m • Total length of force main: 414 m • Total number of sea outfall line: 1

2.3.1.1 Design Population

The sewerage system for Gemanafushi is designed by MWSC by taking into account the population growth rate of 3.08 projected in Census 2006 by the Department of National Planning.

The design life of this system is 35 years, i.e. for the projected population increase of 5063 by year 2052.

2.3.1.2 Estimated Flow Design

Average Dry Weather Flow (ADWF) for this system was estimated using the flow rates shown in Table 2.1. Average Wet Weather Flow (AWWF) estimate for this system takes standard 10% infiltration of ADWF, in conformance to the guideline set by the EPA.

Table 2.1: Wastewater flow rates used to estimate ADWF

Waste water source Unit L/Unit/D Domestic Person 120 Mosque Person 16 Community Centre Person 12 Product Centre Person 12 School Person 16 Hospital Person 40 Office 1000 ft2 400

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2.3.1.3 Pipe material and size uPVC pipes and fitting will be used a sewer network. The pipe diameter for house laterals is 110 mm OD, and main gravity sewer size will be 160 mm OD, conforming to the EPA guideline.

The material and colour for the key pipes are given below:

• Gravity line: uPVC non-pressure pipes and fittings (brown/orange) • Wastewater pumping main: HDPE popes and fittings (black) • Sea Outfall: HDPE and fittings (black)

2.3.1.4 Pipe Gradient, maximum and minimum depth

Slope gradient of 0.40% is proposed in the concept plan for the gravity line of sewer throughout the network, excluding the lateral connections. This gradient allows for only one duty pump, and one standby pump per station for this system. Slope gradient will be finalized after further flow analysis.

The maximum depth of pipe excavation is limited to 2.5 m, and minimum depth is 500 mm. This allows for installation of pump stations to a depth around 3.5 m.

2.3.1.5 Odour Control

Odour control unit will be installed at each pumping station, to expel foul gases generated in the sewer network. Details of the odour control unit have not been finalized at this stage.

2.3.1.6 Pump Stations

Flygt submersible N series pumps are planned for this sewerage system. As mentioned earlier each pump station will have two pumps (working, and other on standby), each with the capacity to pump out peak wet weather flow.

2.3.1.7 Sea outfall

The outfall pipeline as mentioned earlier will be constructed out of HDPE pipes, with flange connected at least 3 – 4 pipe interval for easy maintenance, and replacement in an event of damage. Outfall T diffuser will be fixed at the end of the pipeline. The outfall pipeline will be deployed on natural seabed profile.

The minimum pipe diameter of the outfall pipeline is set at 110 mm OD. This pipeline will be anchored to the seabed using anchor blocks with 316G stainless steel bolts and nuts.

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2.4 Work Methodology

2.4.1 Site Clearance

Site clearance will be required prior to the construction of the proposed Administrative Building.

2.4.2 Mobilisation of Equipment and Materials

Site mobilisation involves the mobilisation of construction equipment, materials and workforce to the island and providing necessary storage for materials and site access and services for the workforce. This activity has its environmental consequences including transport-related impacts, site-access related impacts and workforce related impacts. These will be considered in detail in Chapter 5 of this report. All site mobilisation and construction related activities would be undertaken in a planned manner in order to avoid excessive cost and environmental implications.

2.4.3 Dewatering, Excavation and Pipeline Installation

The pipeline will be installed at a depth of 0.6 m to 0.8 m on the sides of the roads. Excavation to a maximum depth of 2.5 m may be required. Excavator will be used for trenching works. Where instability of the sand/soil conditions is experienced, trench shoring is to be used to maintain the vertical integrity of the sidewalls.

It is expected that only minor dewatering will be required in low areas during construction and installation of pipe networks. The water tables lie on average between 0.8m below ground level in low areas and 1.2m in other areas.

All water removed during dewatering will be discharged onto the ground for re-percolation back into the water table as outlined in the EPA guidelines.

2.4.4 Decommission existing Septic Tanks

The removal and demolition of existing septic tanks is planned to take place, after all premises are connected to the sewer network, using a phased approach.

Fences will be erected around the septic tanks prior to demolition and removal. The contents of the septic tank will be removed and disposed at a location approved by relevant authorities. The tanks will be disinfected by spreading lime over its exposed surfaces.

The septic tanks will be removed, and the areas will be back-filled. All demolition waste will be collected, and transferred to nearest waste site disposal site. All demolition activities will adhere to all laws and regulation of the Maldives, and the conditions set by Environmental Decision statement that will be issued by the EPA.

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2.5 Project Schedule and Life Span

Mobilisation for the project will begin after the EIA is approved. The project is expected to take approximately 36 months.

2.6 Labour Requirements and Services

2.6.1 Workforce

The exact number of workforce required for this project was not available at the time of preparation of this EIA report. The following is an estimate provided by the project design consultant MWSC, of workforce required to execute the construction phase of this project.

1. Project manager - 1 2. Project coordinator – 1 3. Engineer - 1 4. Supervisor(s) - 2 5. Project Assistant(s) – 2 6. Labourer(s) – 30 to 40 7. Excavator operator(s) - 2 8. Butt Welder – 1 Contractor will be responsible to procure, and provide adequate accommodation and services to the workforce required for this project.

2.6.2 Services

As mentioned earlier the contractor will be responsible for providing meals and services for the workers.

2.7 Waste Management, Logistics and Safety Measures

2.7.1 Site Office and Temporary Material Storage

A site office will be constructed on the island at the initial phase for workers during the construction stage.

In locating temporary material storage and other construction-related infrastructure on the island, special attention would be given to ensure there is minimal impact on the environment.

2.7.2 Procurement

Procurement plan for building materials for this project was not available at the time of preparation of this EIA report.

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The contractor will be responsible for procurement of all construction material required for this project.

2.7.3 Construction Waste Management and Disposal

Construction waste would be general domestic waste arising from material consumption by construction workforce. These will be managed according to Waste Management Plan and it would be the Contractor’s responsibility to dispose of all construction-related waste during demobilisation along with any other waste. The Contractor will be required to clear all areas of work.

The contractor will be responsible to dispose all waste material generated for this project to the nearest designated Waste Management Centre, in accordance to the waste management regulation of the Maldives.

2.7.4 Pollution Control Measures

The following measures will be taken to ensure minimal pollution during construction stage.

− Machinery will be properly tuned and maintained to reduce emissions and minimize risk of spills/leaks.

− Fuel storage will be bunded.

− Spill kits will be maintained around construction areas to handle any liquid spills

− All paints, lubricants, and other chemicals used on site will be stored in secure and bunded location to minimize risk of spill.

2.7.5 Health and Safety Measures

The following health and safety measures will be implemented during the construction stage.

− Contractor would ensure that Health and Safety procedures are complied.

− Construction activities would be carried out under the supervision of a suitably experienced person.

− All reasonable precautions will be taken for the safety of employees, and equipment will be operated by competent persons.

− Health checks will be administered before work commences

− Warning signs, barricades or warning devices will be provided and used.

− Necessary safety gear will be worn at all times.

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− Fire extinguishing equipment would be readily available and employees will be trained in its use.

− Oxygen, acetylene or LPG bottles will not be left free-standing.

− First aid kits will be made available on site

− The construction site will be properly closed to unauthorised personnel

2.7.6 Fire Prevention

Fire extinguishing equipment would be readily available and employees will be trained in its use. In general, water-based fire extinguishers would be used.

Oxygen, acetylene or LPG bottles will not be left freestanding. All welding and cutting will be done in accordance to high safety regulations by trained, experienced personnel.

2.8 Summary of Project Inputs and Outputs

The types of materials that will go into the development and from where and how this will be obtained are given in Table 2.2 and the type of outputs (products and waste streams) and what is expected to happen to the outputs are given in Table 2.3.

Table 2.2: Major Project Inputs

Input resource(s) Source/Type How to obtain resources Construction workers Local and expatriate workers with adequate Contractor will be training and experience in construction of responsible to obtain sewerage networks. workers – most likely through recruiting agencies, etc. Personnel trained, and with valid license and experience in operating specialized equipment (Butt-Welding machine) and vehicles (e.g. Excavator). Operational Staff Local and expatriate adequately trained, and Proponent to obtain experienced in maintenance and repair of through sewerage network. advertisement in local papers, social networks, etc. or through recruitment agencies etc. Construction material Timber, electrical cables and wires, DBs and Import and purchase MCBs, PVC pipes, light weight concrete where locally blocks, reinforcement steel bars, sand, cement, available at aggregates, telephone cable CAT 5, PVC competitive prices – conduits, floor and wall tiles, gypsum boards, Main Contractor’s calcium silicate boards, zinc coated corrugated

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Input resource(s) Source/Type How to obtain resources metal roof, paint, thinner, concrete blocks etc. responsibility. Maintenance material Similar to above Import or purchase locally where available Water supply (during Ground water Existing wells in the construction) island Electricity/Energy Diesel Existing power (during construction) supply from the island Electricity/Energy Diesel/ Existing power (during operation) Solar supply from the island

Table 2.3: Major Project Outputs

Output Source/Type Quantity How it will be dealt with Outputs during construction stage Green waste from site Small quantities Disposed to the nearest designated clearance waste disposal site Construction waste Small quantities Sent to designated landfill (general) Outputs during operational stage Sewage and wastewater About 100 litres/person/day Disposed to ocean via outfall pipe Grey water/laundry wastewater

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3 POLICY AND LEGAL FRAMEWORK

These legal and policy provisions have to be fully respected in carrying out the proposed development. All contractors and sub-contractors will be informed of these requirements. This project conforms to all relevant laws and regulations of the Maldives.

3.1 Relevant Legislation

3.1.1 Relevant Environment Legislation

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

The Environmental Protection and Preservation Act (4/93) enacted on 19 March 1993 is the framework law related to environment protection in the Maldives. The authority responsible for the Environment Act is the Ministry of Environment and Energy.

Articles 2, 4, 7, and 8 of the law are relevant to the sewerage system development project.

Article 2 states that the concerned government authorities shall provide the necessary guidelines and advise on environmental protection in accordance with the prevailing conditions and needs of the country. All concerned parties shall take due considerations of the guidelines provided by the government authorities.

The project developers and contractors shall abide by any guidelines or advice given by the concerned Government authorities for the project.

Article 4 states that the Ministry of Environment shall be responsible for identifying protected areas and natural reserves and for drawing up the necessary rules and regulations for their protections and preservation.

The project developers and contractors shall ensure that there is no negative impact from the proposed project on any protected areas.

Article 7 of the EPPA (4/93) states that any type of waste, oil, poisonous gases or any substances that may have harmful effects on the environment shall not be disposed within the territory of the Maldives. In cases where the disposal of the substances becomes absolutely necessary, they shall be disposed only within the areas designated for the purpose by the government. If such waste is to be incinerated, appropriate precaution should be taken to avoid any harm to the health of the population.

All project contractors shall comply with the Environmental Management Plan presented in this report, which specifies how the wastes, oil and gases generated by the project will be disposed.

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Article 8 of the EPPA (4/93) states that Hazardous/ Toxic or Nuclear Wastes that is harmful to human health and the environment shall not be disposed anywhere within the territory of the country.

Any hazardous wastes that may be generated from this project shall be transferred to the designated waste site in Thilafushi for disposal according to Government regulations and standards. It should not be disposed on the Island, as it does not have the necessary facility.

3.1.2 Land Act

The Land Act provides for allocation and releasing land for different needs as well releasing of public land for housing. The Act also states the conditions that govern the using of, owning, selling, renting and transferring of ownership of public and private land.

The land for STP and pump stations have been released by Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure and endorsed by the Island Council.

3.1.3 Building Law (Number: 4/2017)

Building law defines the basic requirements and permitting processes for building design and construction.

Construction activities carried without all required permits under this law can be fined between MVR 5000 and MVR 500,000.

The proponent is to ensure all required permits for the construction of the any buildings for this project are obtained from relevant authorities prior to commencement of the project.

3.2 Relevant Regulations and Guidelines

3.2.1 Environmental Impact Assessment Regulation, 2012

Environmental Impact Assessment regulations were issued by Environment Ministry on 8 May 2012. The first step in environmental assessment process involves screening of the project to be classified as one that requires an EIA or not. Based on this decision, the Ministry then decides the scope of the EIA, which is discussed with the proponent and the EIA consultants in a “scoping meeting”. The consultants then undertake the EIA starting with baseline studies, impact prediction and finally reporting the findings with impact mitigation and monitoring programme. This report follows the principles and procedures for EIA outlined in the EIA regulations.

The EIA report is reviewed by MEE following which an EIA Decision Note is given to the proponent who will have to implement the Decision Note accordingly. As a condition of

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approval, appropriate environmental monitoring may be required and the proponent shall have to report monitoring data at required intervals to the Ministry. The project proponent is committed to implement all impact mitigation measures that are specified in this EIA report. Furthermore, the proponent is committed to environmental monitoring and shall fulfil environmental monitoring requirements that may be specified in the EIA decision note as a condition for project approval.

This report complies with the EIA regulations.

3.2.2 Regulation on Sand and Coral Mining

Regulation on sand mining covers sand mining from uninhabited islands that have been leased; sand mining from the coastal zone of other uninhabited islands; and aggregate mining from uninhabited islands that have been leased and from the coastal zone of other uninhabited islands.

Coral mining from house reef and atoll rim has been banned through a directive from President’s Office dated 26 September 1990.

Sand should not be mined from any part of the Gemanafushi island beach or any beach. Sand should also not be mined from within 100 ft. of the shoreline. Please see regulation on dredging and reclamation for further controls.

3.2.3 Regulation on Cutting Down, Uprooting, Digging Out and Export of Trees and Palms from One Island to Another

Pursuant to the Environment Protection and Preservation Act of Maldives 1993, the Environment Ministry made a by-law with the purpose of educating developers about the importance of trees including best management practices for maintaining trees and provide standards for preservation of trees in the Maldives and set down rules and regulations to be adhered to prior to commencing felling, uprooting, digging out and exporting of trees and palms from one island to another in Maldives.

The by law states that the cutting down, uprooting, digging out and export of trees and palms from one island to another can only be done if it is absolutely necessary and there is no other alternative. It further states that for every tree or palm removed in the Maldives two more should be planted and grown in the island.

The by law prohibits the removal of the following tree types;

− The coastal vegetation growing around the islands extending to about 15 meters into the island

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− All the trees and palms growing in mangrove and wetlands spreading to 15 meters of land area;

− All the trees that are in a Government protected areas;

− Trees that are being protected by the Government in order to protect species of animal/organisms that live in such trees; and − Trees/palms that is abnormal in structure. This project will not require removal of prohibited vegetation, the coconut palms in the clearance area will be relocated to the nearest location on the island.

3.2.4 Regulation on Conservation of Old Trees

This regulation aims at identifying ways to manage protected trees in the Maldives. The reason for the formulation of the law is due to the increased cutting down of trees resulting in the loss of the islands natural, biological wellness and greenness. And due to the extinction of some types of trees at island level and rapid reduction in the amount of certain types of trees at national level and also to comply with the convention on biological diversity

There are no old trees on the island that fits within this regulation.

3.2.5 Dewatering Regulation (Regulation No. 2013/R-1697)

This regulation is drafted under the Act number 4/93 (Maldives Environment Protection and Preservation Act) and issued on 31st December 2013. The main purpose of the regulation is to minimize the impact of dewatering activities on ground water table and also to decrease the impacts on the receiving environment of the disposed water. The regulation encourages prevention of contamination and damage to ground water table, protect the living organisms as well as the environment from the negative impacts due to dewatering activities. This regulation is to be enforced by EPA of the Maldives. If dewatering is to be carried out for any development purposes in any of the islands in Maldives, it shall be done by gaining a written approval from the enforcing agency or an agency assigned by the enforcing body. Dewatering can only be carried out after gaining approval by submitting “the dewatering approval form” in the annex 1 to the enforcing body for approval with all the required documents expressed and with an administrative fee of MVR500. Water quality tests results also have to be submitted as one of the required components. The regulation also guides on where and how the extracted water shall be disposed of, and how it has to be handled. According to the regulation, permission can be granted for dewatering at a

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stretch for a maximum of 28 days, for which a sum of MVR500 should be paid per day. This amount is liable to be increased with the number of days increased. A fine not exceeding MVR100 million may be charged for violation. This project may require pumping water during excavation works. The proponent will be required to get an approval from EPA before commencing any dewatering activities.

3.2.6 Waste Management Regulation 2013

Waste Management Regulation (WMR) was published on August 2013 and came into effect in February 2014. It is implemented by EPA. The aim of WMR is to implement the national waste policy, which contains specific provisions to:

- Implement measures to minimize impacts on human health

- Formulate and implement waste management standards

- Implement an integrated framework for sustainable waste management

- Encourage waste minimisation, reuse and recycling

- Implement Polluter-Pays Principle

- Introduce Extended Producer Responsibility WMR contains four main sections:

- Waste management standards: Defines standards for waste collection, transfer, treatment, storage, waste site management, landfills and managing hazardous waste.

- Waste management Permits: Defines approval procedures for waste sites

- Waster transfer: Standards and permits required for waste transport on land and sea, including trans-boundary movements.

- Reporting requirements: Defines reporting and monitoring requirements and procedures.

- Enforcement: Defines procedures to implement WRM and penalties for non-compliance. This project is in compliance with this regulation.

3.2.7 The Environmental Liability Regulation (Regulation 2011/R-9)

This law is pursuant to Article 22 of national constitution that states that protection, preservation and maintenance of the Maldivian natural environment, the richness of the living species, the natural resources and the beauty of the Maldives for the present generations as well as for the future generations is a basic obligation of the Maldivian government. The government shall enforce that the activities conducted in order to gain economic and social development should be

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of sustainable nature that protect the environment and such activities shall not deteriorate the environment, endanger any species, damage the environment, and shall not waste any natural resources.

This regulation is also pursuant to Environment Protection and Preservation Act of Maldives (4/93). The regulation is aimed at maintaining equal standards for reprimanding and enforcing environmental liabilities, fines for those who violate the rules and regulations and give guidance to those who are involved in the implementation process of the regulations pursuant to Preservation Act of Maldives (4/93).

One of the key objectives of the environmental liability regulation is also to practice polluter- pay-principles in the Maldives.

All project developer and contractors shall be aware of this provision and contractors shall take all practical measures to ensure that all relevant laws and regulations, and the EMP proposed in this EIA is followed.

3.2.8 Employment Act (2/2008)

The Employment Act is the legal framework to govern the rights and responsibilities of the migrant workers in the Maldives is included in the Employment Act (2/2008) that was ratified and signed into law in May 2008. The Employment Act provides for the creation of a Labour Relations Authority, an Employment Tribunal and an Advisory Board on wages.

To date, four amendments have been brought to the Employment Act (2/2008). All contractors shall be required to undertake ethical recruitment and responsible employment of workers during the construction stage of the project.

During the operation stage an ethical recruitment and responsible employment policy and system will be developed and implemented and amendments were made through the following Acts: 14/2008; 12/2010; 3/2014; 14/2015.

All contractors shall be required to undertake ethical recruitment and responsible employment of workers during the construction stage of the project.

3.2.9 Immigration Act (1/2007)

The Maldives Immigration Act (1/2007) lays down the rules for entry, departure and deportation of foreign nationals. Article 15 of the Act provides for work visa: the permit to remain in the Maldives for the duration of a work permit granted to a foreign national visiting the Maldives for the purpose of working, where a work permit has been obtained by that foreign national consistent with the regulations of the concerned Government authority.

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It is anticipated that skilled foreign migrant workers will be employed during the construction stage of the project. Special emphasis will need to be given to ensure that all workers have the relevant work visas and proper documentation while working in the Maldives.

3.2.10 National Waste Water Quality Guideline

Deep sea discharge in the context of the Maldives means discharge of wastewater beyond the shallow reef and at a depth which will ensure proper dispersion and rapid dilution. Deep sea discharge does not imply discharge of wastewater inside the atoll.

The values presented in the National Wastewater Quality Guideline (NWQG) provide maximum allowable concentration of listed components that has to be complied with at all times. If these maximum values are exceeded, one or more of the users of the marine environment will be affected. The values presented assumed proper dispersion as well as thorough and instant mixing at the point of discharge to limit impact at the point of discharge.

Table 3.1: Maximum allowable concentrations in domestic waste water for discharge into deep sea, NWQG

Domestic Waste Water Maximum Remarks Component allowable concentration Faecal coliform 100 org/100 ml For less than 95% of samples taken E.coli 1 org/100 ml For less than 95% of samples taken pH 5 – 9.5 Suspended Solids 150 mg/L To prevent sludge formation on corals Residual chlorine 0.1 mg/L Nitrates as N 15 mg/L Free and saline Ammonia as N 10 mg/L Ortho-phosphate as P 10 mg/L Surfactants 10 mg/L Conductivity < Surrounding Should be less or equal to surrounding sea water seawater Oil, grease, and waxes 5 mg/L Chemical Oxygen Demand 50 mg/L After applying chloride correction Biological Oxygen Demand 40 mg/L Phenolic compounds as 1 mg/L Phenol Sum of metals 5 mg/L Cadmium + Chromium + Copper + Mercury + Lead Acute toxicity Zero No constituents allowed in concentrations which are poisonous or injurious to aquatic life

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3.2.11 Compliance

In general, the proposed developments are in compliance with the laws and regulations described above. Where there is a special requirement to comply, the EMP identifies measures and mechanisms required to comply.

3.3 Environmental Permits Required for the Project

3.3.1 Approval of the concept and site plan

The Ministry of Environment and Energy will have to approve the concept plan and site plan for the proposed project. This project has approval from Ministry of Environment, and Energy (See Appendix B).

3.3.2 Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Decision Note

The most important environmental permit to initiate project work would be a decision regarding this EIA. It will be issued by the EPA. The EIA Decision Note, as it is referred to, shall govern the manner in which the project activities must be undertaken. This EIA report assists decision makers in understanding the existing environment and potential impacts of the project. Therefore, the Decision Note may only be given to the Proponent after a review of this document following which the Ministry may request for further information or provide a decision if further information is not required. In some cases, where there are no major environmental impacts associated with the project, the EPA may provide the Decision Note while at the same time requesting for further information.

3.3.3 Domestic Wastewater Disposal Consent

The General Guidelines for Domestic Wastewater Disposal issued by the EPA former MWSA in 2006 requires wastewater disposal to be undertaken with written consent of the Agency. A copy of the guidelines can be obtained from the EPA.

3.3.4 Dewatering Permit

A dewatering permit may be required for the project during excavation works. A separate application will have to be made to the EPA to get the permit. Permission can be granted for dewatering at a stretch for a maximum of 28 days, for which a sum of MVR500 should be paid per day. This amount is liable to be increased with the number of days increased.

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3.4 Responsible Institutions

The main government institutions that have roles and responsibilities relevant to this project are summarised below.

3.4.1 Ministry of Environment and Energy

The Ministry of Environment is mandated for the effective implementation of the Environmental Protection Act of the country and has the statutory power over issues related to the environment. It has the central control over the environment protection, management, conservation and environmental emergencies. The Ministry operates mainly at a policy level and the more regulatory and technical assessment activities are mandated to EPA.

3.4.2 Atoll Council

Under the Decentralization Act, Gaafu Alif Atoll has elected Atoll Council comprising representatives from the islands within the atoll. Gaafu Alif Atoll Council is located in Villingili Island. The Council Office is the main focal point of Government Ministries in Gaafu Alif Atoll and they co-ordinate and liaises with Government Ministries and elected island councils on all issues relating to the Atoll.

A copy of this EIA will have to be submitted to Gaafu Alif Atoll Council prior to submission to EPA.

3.5 Guiding Policies and Documents

3.5.1 National Environmental Action Plan II (NEAP II)

The aim of NEAP II is to protect and preserve the environment of the Maldives and to sustainably manage the country’s natural resources for the collective benefit and enjoyment of present and future generations.

Accordingly, the key strategies of the NEAP II are:

− Continuous assessment of the state of the environment in the Maldives, including impacts of human activities on land, atmosphere, freshwater, lagoons, reefs and the ocean; and the effects of these activities on human well-being

− Development and implementation of management methods suitable for the natural and social environment of the Maldives and maintain or enhance environmental quality and protect human health, while at the same time using resources on a sustainable basis

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− Ensure stakeholder participation in the decision making process by consultation and collaboration with all relevant sectors of society

− Preparation and implementation of comprehensive national environmental legislation in order to provide for responsible and effective management of the environment

− Adhering to international and regional environmental conventions and agreements and implementation of commitments embodied in such conventions. Furthermore, NEAP II specifies priority actions in the following areas:

− Climate change and sea level rise; coastal zone management;

− Biological diversity conservation; integrated reef resources management;

− Integrated water resources management;

− Management of solid waste and sewerage;

− Pollution control and management of hazardous waste;

− Sustainable tourism development;

− Land resources management and sustainable agriculture

− Human settlement and urbanization.

3.5.2 Waste Management Policy

The aim of the waste management policy is to formulate and implement guidelines and means for solid waste management in order to maintain a healthy environment. Accordingly, the key elements of the policy include:

− Ensure safe disposal of solid waste and encourage recycling and reduction of waste generated;

− Develop guidelines on waste management and disposal and advocate to enforce such guidelines through inter-sectoral collaboration;

− Ensure safe disposal of chemical, hazardous and industrial waste. The proponents of this project must be aware of the policy and all solid and hazardous waste produced in this project should be disposed according to the Environmental Management Plan for the project, which reflects the principles of the Waste Management Policy.

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3.6 International Conventions

3.6.1 Convention on Biological Diversity

The Maldives is a party to the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity. 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”. The proposed development activities outlined in this project does not fall on any area recognised for its ecological value. Therefore it is unlikely there will be a major loss of biodiversity. The loss is not going to be significant at atoll or national level. Yet, it is recommended that the developer ensure that silt screens are used during dredging works, construction of the jetty and breakwaters to minimise any impact on the marine biodiversity.

3.6.2 International Plant Protection Convention

The Maldives has become a party to the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) as a step to protecting native plant species in the Maldives from the risk of diseases introduced by imported plant varieties. The Maldives adhered to the IPPC on 3 October 2006 and the Convention requires that certificates of phytosanitary condition and origin of consignments of plants and plant products be used for import and export of plants and plant materials. Contracting parties have the full authority to regulate entry of plants and plant products and may prescribe restrictions on imports or prohibit importation of particular plants or plant products. Thus it is advisable that the proponent be aware of the requirements of IPPC and obtains the necessary phytosanitary certificates if any plants are to be imported to stabilise the beach or for landscaping.

3.6.3 UNFCCC and Kyoto Protocol

The Maldives is a party to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Kyoto Protocol to the UNFCCC. The objective of the Convention is to achieve, in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Convention, stabilization of greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere at a level that would prevent dangerous anthropogenic interference with the climate system. Such a level should be achieved within a time frame sufficient to allow ecosystems to adapt naturally to climate change, to ensure that food production is not threatened and to enable economic development to proceed in a sustainable manner.

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The IPCC defines mitigation “as an anthropogenic intervention to reduce the sources or enhance the sinks of greenhouse gases.” The greenhouse gas inventory of the Maldives forms an integral part of the First National Communication of the Maldives to the UNFCCC. In March 2009, the President of the Maldives announced the target to make Maldives carbon neutral by 2020. Hence, in the implementation of the project, careful attention needs to be given to ensure energy efficiency and reduce transport related fuel consumption. Furthermore, planting of beach vegetation would help in mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions from the project.

The IPCC defines adaptation “as an adjustment in natural or human systems in response to actual or expected climatic stimuli or their effects.” Various type of adaptation include anticipatory and reactive adaptation; private and public adaptation; and autonomous and planned adaptation. The adaptation policies and strategies of the Maldives are given in the Maldives National Adaptation Programme of Action (NAPA).

3.6.4 1994 Barbados Programme of Action for Small Island Developing States – Waste Management Section

The programme of Action makes the suggestion that:

- Sewage disposal in small island states should look for ways to convert wastes, such as sewage, into a resource such as compost - Sewage disposal companies should work to change community attitudes to the disposal and use of sewage - Implement appropriate regulatory measures for the reduction, prevent, control and monitoring of pollution and for safe and efficient management of solid wastes. - Develop information systems and baseline data for waste management and pollution control, monitoring the types and quantities of waste, for both sea and land based sources of pollution. - Facilitate the formulation and implementation of public awareness and education campaigns designed to gain local recognition of the need to control wastes at the source; the value of reuse, recycling and appropriate packaging; and of the possibilities for converting wastes to resources in culturally appropriate ways.

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4 EXISTING ENVIRONMENT

4.1 Physical Environment

4.1.1 Meteorology

4.1.1.1 Climate

The climate in Maldives is warm and humid, typical of the tropics. The average temperature ranges between 25°C to 30°C and relative humidity varies from 73 percent to 85 percent. The annual average rainfall is approximately 1,948 mm. As Maldives lies on the equator, Maldives receives plenty of sunshine throughout the year. Significant variation is observed in the climate between the northern and the southern atolls. The annual average rainfall in the southern atolls is higher than the northern atolls. In addition, greater extremes of temperature are also recorded in the southern atolls. On average southern atolls receive 2704 hours of sunshine each year. Table 4.1 provides a summary of key meteorological findings for Maldives.

Table 4.1: Key Meteorological Information of the Maldives

Parameter Data Average Rainfall 9.1mm/day in May, November; 1.1mm/day in February Maximum Rainfall 184.5 mm/day in October 1994 Average air temperature 30.0 C in November 1973; 31.7 C in April Extreme Air Temperature 34.1 C in April 1973;17.2 C in April 1978 Average wind speed 3.7 m/s in March; 5.7 m/s in January, June Maximum wind speed W 31.9 m/s in November 1978 Average air pressure 1012 mb in December; 1010 mb in April

4.1.1.2 Monsoons

The climate of Maldives is characterised by the monsoons of the Indian Ocean. Monsoon wind reversal significantly affects weather patterns. Two monsoon seasons are observed in Maldives: the Northeast (Iruvai) and the Southwest (Hulhangu) monsoon. The parameters that best distinguish the two monsoons are wind and rainfall patterns. The southwest monsoon is the rainy season while the northeast monsoon is the dry season. The southwest monsoon occurs from May to September and the northeast monsoon is from December to February. The transition period of southwest monsoon occurs between March and April while that of northeast monsoon occurs from October to November.

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4.1.1.3 Winds

The winds that occur across Maldives are mostly determined by the monsoon seasons. The two monsoons are considered mild given that Maldives is located close to the equator. As a result, strong winds and gales are infrequent although storms and line squalls can occur, usually in the period May to July. During stormy conditions gusts of up to 60 knots have been recorded at Male’.

Wind has been uniform in speed and direction over the past twenty-plus monsoon seasons in the Maldives (Naseer, 2003). Wind speed is usually higher in central region of Maldives during both monsoons, with a maximum wind speed recorded at 18 ms-1 for the period 1975 to 2001. Mean wind speed is highest during the months May and October in the central region. Wind analysis indicates that the monsoon is considerably stronger in central and northern region of Maldives compared to the south (Naseer, 2003).

Besides the annual monsoonal wind variations there are occasional tropical climatic disturbances (tropical storms or low intensity tropical cyclones) in the central region which increases wind speeds up to 110 km/h, precipitation to 30 to 40 cm over a 24 hour period and storm surges up to 3 m in open ocean (UNDP, 2006).

Table 4.2 summarises the wind conditions in South Maldives throughout a year. Medium term meteorological data from Gan meteorological centre (see Figure 4.1, Figure 4.2 and Figure 4.3) and findings from long-term Comprehensive Ocean-Atmosphere Data Set (COADS) are used in this analysis.

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Table 4.2: Summary of General Wind Conditions from Gan Meteorological Center

Season Month Wind NE - Monsoon December Predominantly from NW-NE. January High Speeds from W February Transition Period 1 March From all directions. Mainly W. High Speeds from W. April SW - Monsoon May Mainly from W. June High Speeds from W. July August September Transition Period 2 October Mainly from W. November High Speeds from W

Figure 4.1: Monthly Frequencies of Wind Direction in Gan Meteorological Center 1978-2004 (adapted from Naseer, 2003).

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Figure 4.2: 24 Year Wind Frequency Recorded at Gan Meteorological Center

Figure 4.3: Mean Daily Wind Speed and Direction Recorded at Gan Meteorological Centre (1978 – 2004)

The Disaster Risk Profile of Maldives (UNDP, 2006) reports 11 cyclonic events over the Maldives in the last 128 years and only one event over the central Maldives. All of these events were of category 1 cyclones. There have been no cyclonic events since 1993.

Gemanafushi Island is located in the lowest risk zone for cyclonic hazards in Maldives. The area is not expected to receive strong winds that could generate cyclones (UNDP, 2006). The project site is expected to receive regular annual strong winds during the peak SW monsoon.

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4.1.1.4 Rainfall

The average annual rainfall for the archipelago is 2,124 mm. There are regional variations in average annual rainfall: southern atolls receive approximately 2,280 mm, and northern atolls receive approximately 1,790 mm annually (MEC, 2004). Mean monthly rainfall also varies substantially throughout the year with the dry season getting considerably less rainfall. This pattern is less prominent in the southern half, however. The proportions of flood and drought years are relatively small throughout the archipelago, and the southern half is less prone to drought (UNDP, 2006).

The nearest meteorological station to Gemanafushi with long term available data is the Gan Meteorological Centre in Gan Island, Addu Atoll. The mean annual rainfall in Gan Meteorological Station is 2299.3 mm with a Standard Deviation of 364.8mm and a mean monthly rainfall of 191.6mm. Rainfall varies throughout the year with mean highest rainfall during October, December and May and lowest between February and April (See Figure 4.4).

Mean Monthly Rainfall in Gan 300

250

200

150

100 Mean Rainfall (mm) Rainfall Mean 50

0 J F M A M J J A S O N D Month

Figure 4.4: Mean Monthly Rainfall in Gan (1978-2004)

Probable maximum precipitation (PMP) for a 24-hour period is an important parameter for designing drainage system or development activities that may alter the topography. The Disaster Risk profile of Maldives (UNDP, 2006) gives the PMP values for Gan as provided in Table 4.3, which is the highest for any part of Maldives.

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Table 4.3 Probable Maximum Precipitation for various Return periods in Gan

Station Return Period Name 50 year 100 year 200 year 500 year Gan 218.1 238.1 258.1 284.4 Source (UNDP, 2006)

4.1.1.5 Temperature

Daily temperatures of Maldives vary little throughout the year with a mean annual temperature of 28°C. The annual mean maximum temperature recorded for Male’ during the period 1967- 1995 was 30.4°C and the annual mean minimum temperature for the same period was 25.7°C. The highest recorded temperature for Male’ was 34.1°C on 16th and 28th of April 1973. The hottest month recorded was April 1975 with a maximum monthly average temperature of 32.7°C, the next highest being 32.6°C in April 1998. The lowest minimum average temperature of 23.7°C was recorded in July 1992.

There is considerable inter annual variability in extreme temperatures for Hulhule’ as shown in Figure 4.5. A maximum temperature of at least 33.5oC is rare at Hulhule’ and has a return period of 20 years (Hay, 2006).

Figure 4.5: Maximum Temperature by year in Hulhule’- 1975-2005 (Source: Hay, 2006)

4.1.2 Noise Level

Ambient noise levels were observed to be moderately quiet around the proposed site, with the most common source of noise was due to birds such as crows and human induced noises. Noise

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The detailed data for noise recordings at the site are given in the table below.

Table 4.4 Average noise levels recorded at proposed project locations

ID Latitude Longitude Min (dB) Max (dB) Description N1 N 0.441023° E 73.567302° 50.5 60.5 Admin Building N2 N 0.442077° E 73.568448° 49.7 78.2 Pump station 1 N3 N 0.446389° E 73.568203° 50.1 73.1 Pump station 2 N4 N 0.445944° E 73.569745° 50.4 56.5 STP Building

Figure 4.6: Locations where ambient noise level was recorded

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4.1.3 Hydrology

4.1.3.1 Tidal Pattern

Water levels at the site vary mainly in response to tides, storm surge or tsunamis. Tides in the Maldives are mixed and semi-diurnal/diurnal.

Tidal variations are referred to the standard station in at Gan Island located approximately 132 km from the Gemanafushi Island. Typical spring and neap tidal ranges are approximately 1.0m and 0.3m, respectively (MEC, 2004). Maximum spring tidal range in Gan is approximately 1.1m. There is also a 0.2m seasonal fluctuation in regional mean sea level, with an increase of about 0.1m during February to April and a decrease of 0.1m during September to November. The predicted tide curve for the period between 13 January and 14 March 2013 is presented in Figure 4.7 below. Details of the month January are presented in Figure 4.8 and the details for the month of February are presented in Figure 4.9. The largest measured tide during the short monitoring period had a range of about 1.05 m.

Figure 4.7: Predicted tides for January and March 2013, based on data supplied by Department of Meteorology, Maldives

Figure 4.8: Predicted tides for Jan – Feb 2013, based on data supplied by Department of Meteorology, Maldives

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Figure 4.9: Predicted tides for Feb – Mar 2013, based on data supplied by Department of Meteorology, Maldives

4.1.3.2 Waves

There are two major types of waves observed along the islands of Maldives. The first type is wave generated by local monsoon wind with a period of 3-8 seconds and the second type is swells generated by distance storms with a period of 14-20 seconds [Kench et. al (2006), DHI (1999), Binnie Black & Veatch (2000), Lanka Hydraulics (1988a & 1998b)]. The local monsoon predominantly generates wind waves, which are typically strongest during April-July in the southwest monsoon period. Wave data for Male and Hulhulé’ between June 1988 and January 1990 (Lanka Hydraulics 1988a & 1998b) shows that the maximum significant wave height (Hs) recorded for June was 1.23 m with a mean period (Tm) of 7.53s. The maximum recorded Hs for July was 1.51 m with a Tm of 7.74s. The mean wave periods were 5.0 – 9.0s and the peak wave periods were within 8.0 – 13.0s.

Maldives experiences occasional flooding caused by long distance swell waves that are generated by South Indian Ocean storms (Goda 1988). The swell waves of height 3 meters that flooded Male’ and Hulhulé’ in 1987 are said to have originated from a low pressure system off west coast of Australia (refer the next section for more detail). In addition, Maldives has recently been subject to an earthquake-generated tsunami reaching heights of 4.0m on land (UNEP, 2005). Historical wave data from Indian Ocean countries show that tsunamis have occurred in more than one occasion, most notable has been the 1883 tsunami resulting from the volcanic explosion of Karakatoa (Choi et al., 2003).

The proposed site is located on the eastern rim of Gaafu Alif Atoll. It is exposed to wind waves during both seasons (see figure 4.10).

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4.1.3.3 Swell Waves and Storm Surges

Waves studies around Maldives have identified the presence of swell waves approaching predominantly from a southwest to a southerly direction Kench et. al (2006), Young (1999), DHI(1999), Binnie Black & Veatch (2000) and Naseer (2003).

Island located on the eastern rim of Maldivian atoll is generally exposed to Indian Ocean swells approaching from the NW and SE. The island is expected to receive swell waves throughout the year.

Waves generated from abnormal events could also travel against the predominant swell propagation patterns (Goda, 1998), causing flooding on the eastern and southern islands of Maldives (UNDP, 2009).

As noted in the previous section, Gemanafushi Island is located in a lowest risk cyclonic hazard zone of Maldives.

4.1.3.4 Currents

Tidal currents, wind-induced currents and wave-induced currents, can cause currents that affect the reef system of Gemanafushi Island. It is presumed that generally current flow through the country is defined by the two-monsoon season winds. Westward flowing currents are dominant from January to March with the change in current flow pattern taking place in April and December (Kench et. al, 2006). In April the westward currents become weak while the eastward currents start to take over. In December the eastward currents are weak with the westward currents becoming more prominent. Hence, currents within the site are very likely to be heavily influenced by the monsoons.

Current measurements were undertaken on the island during field visits (NE monsoon) during daytime high tide. Generally, long-term studies are required to establish the prevailing site- specific current patterns. However, due to time limitations of the present study a snapshot assessment was undertaken using drogue technique. The findings of the tide measurements are presented in Figure 4.11.

Current measurements varied based on location. Current flow was generally in a westerly direction within the shallow lagoon area.

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Figure 4.10: Estimated wave conditions

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Figure 4.11 Observed current flow patterns on the reef

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4.1.4 Marine water quality assessment

The primary objective of the marine water quality sampling was to determine the baseline conditions of the marine water in around Gemanafushi Island. Water samples were collected in 1500ml PET bottles from three locations. All water quality tests were done at the MWSC laboratory.

The following table shows (see Table 4.5) the test results of the marine water collected on 28th October 2015. Laboratory results are attached in Appendix D.

Table 0.5: Marine water quality assessment results

Optimal Results Parameter Range SW1 SW2 SW3 (EPA) - Clear with Clear with Clear with Physical appearance particles particles particles Conductivity (µS/cm) - 47500 50100 52300 pH 8.0 – 8.3 8.20 8.20 8.21 o Salinity ( /oo) - 30.87 32.72 34.26 Total Dissolved Solids (mg/L) - 23700 25000 26100 Total Suspended Solids (mg/l) - <5* <5 <5 Turbidity (NTU) - 0.182 0.119 0.186 Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) - 7.76 7.35 7.76 Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD)- (mg/l) <2 2 1 1 Total Coliform (CFU/100ml) - 5 20 0 Faecal Coliform (CFU/100ml) - 1 0 0 *LoQ: Limit of Quantification: 5 mg/L

Marine water qualities for majority of the parameters tested appear to be within acceptable ranges at all sites. Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD), nitrates level for all sites is within the optimum range.

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4.1.5 Ground water quality assessment

Ground water quality was assessed by taking samples from one location during the field visit. Samples were collected in a 1500 ml plastic bottle. Samples in the PET bottles were collected after rinsing the bottle with the sample to be collected. Geographical coordinates of all locations were recorded using a differential GPS. Time and date of sampling was also recorded. All samples were kept at 4 degree Celsius and sent to MWSC laboratory for analysis.

Laboratory results are attached in Appendix D.

Table 4.6: Results for water quality testing for ground water

Parameter GW1 GW1 GW3 GW4 Pale yellow with Pale yellow with Pale yellow with Pale yellow Physical appearance particles particles particles with particles Conductivity (µS/cm) 771 1016 596 618 pH 7.52 7.17 7.57 7.64 Chloride (mg/L) 27 57 30 17 Nitrate (mg/L) 33.4 4.5 4.2 1.4 Nitrogen Ammonia 0.31 5.00 <0.02 <0.02 (mg/L) Sulphate (mg/L) 34 33 24 18 Chemical Oxygen 35.1 49.7 34.1 34.4 Demand (mg/L) Biological Oxygen 5 8 6 7 Demand (mg/L) Total Coliform >2420 65 2420 76 (MPN/100ml) Faecal Coliform 14 4 5 0 (MPN/100ml)

4.1.6 Bathymetry

A detailed bathymetric survey of the proposed, and potential alternative sewage outfall location.

Survey results have been summarised in bathy charts Appendix F. The depth figures presented are in meters below MSL.

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4.2 Biological Environment

4.2.1 Benthic Substrate and Fish Survey

Figure below shows the number of fish families and species that was recorded along each transect at Gemanafushi Reef. Lowest number of fish species was recorded at T3, and highest number of fish species was recorded at T2. A complete list of fishes recorded is presented in table 4.7.

40 34 35 31 30

25

21 20 17

count 16 15 12

10

5

0 T1 T2 T3

Number of Fish Family Number of Fish Species

Figure 4.12: Number of fish families and species recorded per transect at Gemanafushi Reef

4.2.1.1 Transect 1

This transect was deployed at 3 m depth, along the reef edge on the eastern side of the island. This site was assessed as it is the nearest reef, to the proposed project activities.

Analysis of the photos shows that the dominant benthic substrate at this site is Pavement (74.55%± 5.24SE). Coral life is very low at this site, making up to 5.91±2.11SE of the survey area. Massive type Porites and Pocillopora were the common coral genera observed from this site.

A total of 31 fish species 16 fish families were recorded during the fish census. Highest number of fishes were recorded from families Labridae (5 species) and Acanthuridae (4 species). Most members of Labridae mainly feed on small invertebrates (snails and clams) while some species included algae in their diet and feed from the water column on planktons While members of Acanthuridae (Surgeon fish) are mainly algae grazers and feed on plankton/zooplankton.

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During the fish count two different families of Carcharhinidae (Blacktip reef shark & White tip reef shark) was encountered.

Figure 4.13 Selected images showing benthic composition near Transect 1

90 74.55 80

70

SE 60 ± 50

40

30 % Mean cover 20 9.09 9.09 10 5.91 0.45 0.91 0 Live Coral Turf Algae (MA) Dead Coral with Old dead coral Pavement CA (coralline Algae alage

Figure 4.14: Benthic substrate composition along transect 1

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4.2.1.2 Transect 2

This transect was deployed at 3.5 m depth, along the reef edge to the eastern side (refer to location site on survey location map) Live coral made about 5.91±2.5SE of the transect line. Massive type Porites and Pocillopora were the only coral genera observed from this site.

A total of 34 fish species belonging to 17 fish families were recorded during the fish census at this site. Highest number of fishes were recorded from families Labridae (5 species) and Acanthuridae (4 species). Most members of Labridae mainly feed on small invertebrates (snails and clams) while some species included algae in their diet and feed from the water column on planktons. Members of Acanthuridae (Surgeon fish) are mainly algae grazers and feed on plankton/zooplankton. During the count two different families of Carcharhinidae (Blacktip reef shark & White tip reef shark) was encountered along with Green sea turtles on the site.

Figure 4.15: Select images showing benthic substrate composition along transect 2

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80

58.64 70

60

SE

± 50

40

30

% Mean cover 19.55 20 6.82 10 5.91 3.18 4.09 0.45 0.91 0 Live Coral Turf Algae Dead Coral Old dead Pavement Rubble Sand CA (coralline (MA) with Algae coral alage

Figure 4.16: Mean benthic substrate composition along Transect 2

4.2.1.3 Transect 3

This transect was deployed at 2 m depth, along the reef edge to the Western side of the island.

Analysis of the photos shows that the dominant benthic substrate at this site is Dead coral with Algae (30.50%± 6.12 SE). Coral life at this site, making up to 10.5±2.83SE of the survey area. Massive type Porites was the most common coral genera observed from this site.

A total of 31 fish species belonging to 12 fish families were recorded during the fish census at this site. Average number of fishes were recorded from families Acanthuridae (5 species) and Acanthuridae (4 species). Members Acanthuridae (Surgeon fish) are mainly algae grazers and feed on plankton/zooplankton.

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Figure 4.17: Select images showing benthic substrate composition along transect 3

40 35

SE 30

± 25 20 15

% Mean cover 10 5 0 Live Coral Turf Algae Dead Coral Old dead Pavement Rubble Sand CA OL (other (MA) with Algae coral (coralline live) alage

Figure 4.18: Benthic substrate composition along transect 3

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Table 4.7: Summary of fish census survey carried out at T1, T2, and T3

Abundance Species T1 T2 T3 Sargocentron spiniferum 2 2 2 Neoniphon opecularis 2 Cephalopholis argus 2 Pseudanthias squamipinnis 3 3 Caranx melampygus 3 3 Plectorhinchus vittatus 2 2 Lutjanus bohar 3 3 Macolor macularis 3 3 Macolor niger 3 3 Aphareus furca 2 Caesio varilineata 6 6 Caesio lunaris 4 4 Parupeneus macronema 2 Hemitaurichthys zoster 3 3 Chaetodon trifasciatus 2 Chaetodon xanthocephalus 2 2 2 Centropyge multispinis 2 2 2 Platax orbiculars 2 2 Chromis dimidiata 3 3 Pomacentrus indicus 2 Amblyglyphlyphidon batunai 6 5 Plectroglyphidodon dickii 3 2 Halichoeres hortulanus 2 2 Gomphosus caeruleus 2 2 Thalassoma amblycephalum 6 6 Thalassoma hardwicke 2 Thalassoma quinquevittatum 2 2 Bodianus diana 2 2 Hipposcarus harid 3 Scarus strongylocephalus 2 2 Scarus sordidus 2 2 3 Scarus niger 2 Zanclus cornutus 2 2 2 Acanthurus leucosternon 3 3 2 Acanthurus lineatus 3 3 3 Ctenochaetus striatus 3 3 4 Ctenochaetus truncatus 2 2 Zebrasoma scopas 3 Siganus argenteus 4

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Abundance Species T1 T2 T3 Balistapus undulatus 3 3 Balistoides viridescens 2 2 Melichthys indicus 2 2 Carcharhinus melanopterus 3 3 Triaenodon obesus 3 3 Chelonia mydas 2

4.2.2 Visual Snorkelling Survey

Visual snorkelling surveys were carried out at select locations of the lagoon.

Site 1 – Eastern side of island lagoon

Please refer to the survey location map for site location. Depth ranged 0.5~1m. Predominant benthic substrate observed was seagrass 90%, coral, 5% live coral, 2.5% sand, 2.5%Rocks. No fish life was observed. The dominant species of seagrass observed was Thalassia hemprichii.

Figure 4.19: Thick seagrass bed observed on the eastern lagoon of Gemanafushi Island

Site 2 – Eastern side of island lagoon

This site is located roughly four hundred meters south from the previous site. Depth range between 0.5m ~1m. Predominant benthic substrate observed was seagrass 75%, coral, 5% live coral, 15% sand, 5%Rocks. No fish life was observed. The dominant benthic substrate observed was of seagrass Thalassia hemprichii.

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Figure 4.20: Thick seagrass bed observed on the eastern lagoon of Gemanafushi Island

4.3 Marine Protected Areas and Environmentally Sensitive Areas

There only Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in Gaafu Alif Atoll is Hithaadhoo (located over 57 km northwest of Gemanafushi Island). The nearest Environmental Sensitive Area (ESA) to the project site are Maareha Kandu (located less than 1 km north of island, this area is listed as an ESA due to occurrence of Tiger Sharks, Hammerhead Sharks, Grey Reef Sharks, Marlins, and Sailfish).

4.4 Terrestrial Ecology

4.4.1 Flora

General Characteristics

The main sites that require vegetation removal for this project are the proposed locations for the Admin Building, Pump Station(s), Sewage Treatment Plant and vegetation found in the middle of the roads.

Due to its urban location, there are no natural vegetation groups found in the vicinity of these location, however the vegetation at the site can be generally classified as mixed woody vegetation or coastal vegetation due if it is in close proximity to the shoreline. Detailed descriptions for these sites are given in the sub-paragraphs below.

Admin Building Site

The site is located near the harbour and is currently an area used by locals to gather around to relax (with swings and Joali’s). Vegetation species observed on the site includes Palms (Cocos nucifera), Falho (Caprica papaya), Midhili (Terminalia catappa), Dhigga (Hibiscus tiliaceus), Ipil-ipil (Leucaena leucocephala) and Ahi (Morinda citrifolia). Approximate number of trees

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Pump Station(s) & Roadside Vegetation

The two pump stations are located on the main road and only 5 trees were observed on this road. The projects main terrestrial impact will come from the vegetation removal on the road leading up to the sewage treatment plant from the pump station 2 as this road is currently undeveloped. Vegetation species observed in these areas includes Palms (Cocos nucifera), Dhigga (Hibiscus tiliaceus), Ipil-ipil (Leucaena leucocephala) and Moonima (Mimusops elengi). Approximate number of trees that may be required for removal from this site has been provided in the Floral Inventory table below.

Sewage Treatment Plant site

As the Sewage Treatment Plant is to be implemented at a later phase, the exact footprint of the site was not determined during the field visit. However, the general area of the proposed site was identified for the field team by the local council. Vegetation species observed in this area includes, Palms (Cocos nucifera), Falho (Caprica papaya), Midhili (Terminalia catappa), Dhigga (Hibiscus tiliaceus), Ipil-ipil (Leucaena leucocephala), Hikan’dhifaiy (Murraya koenigii) Ahi (Morinda citrifolia), Banbukeyo (Artocarpus altilis), Boakashikeyo (Pandanus tectorius) and Magoo (Scaevola taccada). Approximate number of trees for removal from this site has been provided in the Floral Inventory table below, however, this number may reduce significantly once the actual footprint of the site is identified. During stakeholder discussions, it was also discussed to change the outfall location further south, and if that happens, council has agreed to find a new area for the sewage treatment plant near this area. The area currently has mostly farming lands, and is generally clear of large vegetation.

All the sites are easily accessible and no unique trees or groups of vegetation were observed during the field visit. The removal of the palm trees will be the most significant terrestrial impact from this project. Since the detailed designs have not been finalized and its consequent footprint on the environment from the infrastructures, some of these trees may not be removed at all. Any palm trees that fall within the direct footprint of this project will need to be relocated elsewhere on the island, and the proponent will coordinate with the local council to carry out this activity.

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Table 4.8: Floral inventory of proposed project locations

No. of Trees Observed in the area/ Required for Removal Name(s) Ethnobotanical Aspects Sewage Admin Roads, Pump # Treatment Building Stations Plant Scientific English Dhivehi

Multiple Uses, timber, Cocos Coconut Dhivehi fruit, toddy, thatch 20 / 4-7 25 / 9-12 25 / 10-12 1 nucifera palm ruh making…etc, Virgin approx. approx. approx. Coconut Oil Production

Carica 2 Papaya Falho Edible fruit 8 / All 7 / All papaya

Terminalia Country Timber, Nuts 3 Midhili 2 / All 2 / All catappa almond (expensive)

Hibiscus Sea Timber, firewood, rope 4 Dhiggaa 8 / 2 approx. 25 / All 15 / All tilaceus hibiscus making, erosion control

nitrogen fixing Leucaena 5 Ipil ipil Ipil ipil properties, fuel wood, 3 / All 3 / All 2 / All leucocephala fodder, control erosion

Mimusops ornamental, timber, 6 Bullet tree Moonimaa 1/ All elengi windbreak

Murraya Curry Leaf Hikan'dhi edible and leaves are 7 2 / All koenigii Tree gas widely used in cooking diabetes, blood Morinda Cheese pressure, arthritis, 8 Ahi 4 / All 2 / All citrifolia Fruit muscle pain, menstrual problems..etc, Artocarpus Edible fruit, light, soft 9 Bread fruit Banbukeyo 1 / All altilis and durable wood

1 Pandanus Wild Boa windbreak, control 14 / 5-6

0 tectorius Screwpine kashikeyo erosion approx.

firewood, handicrafts, 1 Scaevola Sea lettuce Magoo eye medicine, coastal 20+ / All 1 taccada tree bioshield

Figure 4.21: Vegetation observed at proposed Administraive Buidling Site

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Figure 4.22: Some vegetation observed along the main road

Figure 4.23: Vegetation observed at proposed Sewage Treatment Plan Site

4.4.2 Fauna

General Characteristics

The proposed site(s) are located in an urban area and thus not much fauna was observed on the site or its vicinity. The only species recorded during the field visit was the common crow (Corvus linnaeus), and the common garden lizard (Calotes versicolor).

However, based on local accounts and experiences from similar conditions found in the Maldives, it can be said that some other common species such as the Rat (Rattus sp.), Fruit bats (Pteropus giganteus ariel) and other small fauna will be found within the project area.

No bird species or other faunal species of significant importance was identified at the proposed site(s).

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4.5 Natural Hazards and Disaster Risks

According to the UNDP Disaster Risk Assessment Report of Maldives in 2006, proposed reef is located in an area exposed severe impacts of tsunami, and heavy rainfall. It does not identify the island as being exposed to Cyclone, or and severe impacts from storm surges. The following parameters can be deduced for the Gaafu Alif Region based on Disaster Assessment Report and the Detailed Island Risk Assessment Reports (UNDP, 2009).

Tsunami: Maximum probable wave height range 3.20 – 4.50 m

Cyclone or storm (wind): Probable maximum wind speed 0.0 knots.

Storm surge: predicted storm surge height – 0.00 m

Rainfall: probable maximum daily rainfall for Gan, for a 50-year return period was 218.1 mm

Based on these parameters, field surveys and planned design parameters of the island, the methodology for risk assessment identified in the Detailed Island Risk Assessment Reports (UNDP, 2009) and findings from Ali (2005) was used to assess the hazard risks on the site. However, the results should be treated with caution as this is a preliminary risk assessment. A more comprehensive assessment will require a longer time frame and more data, which is beyond the scope of this study.

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4.6 Socioeconomic Environment

4.6.1 Gemanafushi Island Socio-economic setup

Total Population

According to the results of Maldives Population and Housing Census of 2014, Gemanafushi has a total population of 1223; (642 male and 581 female). The Maldivian population is comprised of 572 males and 575 females. The foreign immigrant population is comprised of 70 males and 6 females.

Sex Ratio

According to the results of Maldives Population and Housing Census of 2014, there were more males than females in Gemanafushi with 52.4% males, and 47.5% females.

Population Density

Gemanafushi is a moderately sized island with about 55 ha land area. This island has a resident population density with about 22 people per hectare.

Annual Growth Rate

According to census 2006 and 2014, the population of Gemanafushi had a positive annual growth with a rate of 1.6% annually. Table 4.9 below shows the population figures for census 2006 and 2014 of Gemanafushi Island.

Table 4.9: Gemanafushi population census figures for 2014 and 2006

Census 2014 Census 2006 Total Population 1223 1082

Dependency Ratio The general structure of Gemanafushi population is shown in Figure 4.24 below. The dependent population is at 48.7%, which comprises of 43.4% children and 5.3% elderly. The working age population comprises of more than half of the population with 51.3%.

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Figure 4.24: Population Pyramid of Gemanafushi, Census 2014

Education Sector

There are two educational institutions in the island. The main educational institution in Gemanafushi school which has 123 male and 123 female students enrolled from 1st grade to 10th grade. A total of 37 teachers are currently working in Gemanafushi school. The second educational institution is a preschool named Zamaanee where 15 male and 19 female children are enrolled. There are currently 6 teachers working in this school.

Heath Sector

There are no recent published reports on health statistics of Gemanafushi, thus all health-sector related information about Gemanafushi has been provided on request by the island council.

Gemanafushi currently has one government health centre with laboratory services and 2 pharmacies. There are no scans and radiology services, health posts, health clinics or any private health services. Gemanafushi Island currently has:

- 1 General Doctor - No Specialist doctors - 3 Public Health Workers - 8 Nurses

According to census 2014, there are 22 Maldivians and 1 Foreigner working in the Human health and social work activities.

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Utilities and Infrastructure

Since there are no recent published reports on utilities of Gemanafushi, all utility related information about the island has been provided on request by the island council.

There is one island harbour constructed by the government and a boat yard. There is no regional harbour, pavement or slipway.

Electricity service in Gemanafushi is provided by FENAKA with 2 generators (400KV and 250KV). There are no desalination plants and the main source of water for household consumption is rainwater. There are 10 community rainwater tanks with a storage capacity of 50,000L. There are no renewable energy projects or water projects in the island.

Gemanafushi Island does not have a sewerage network installed. Hence, the population still relies on conventional septic tanks for sewage disposal.

Transport

The nearest airport to Gemanafushi is Koodoo Airport, which is approximately 35km away.

For public sea transport, Gemanafushi has 1 ferry operating within the atoll and 5 passenger boats operated between the island and Male’

For land transportation, cars, pickups and motorcycles used within the island.

Business and Employment

According to census 2014, the main source of income in the island is fishing with 28% of the working population working in Fisheries. This includes 146 Maldivians and 5 foreigners. Meanwhile there are 68 people working in manufacturing and 72 people working in the education sector making these two employment sectors important areas in the island as well. In addition, there are 30 people working in the island for wholesale and retail trade and repair of vehicles, 5 people working in transportation, 12 people working in accommodation and for services, and 3 people working in information and communication.

Gemanafushi has a total employed population of 523 people which includes 65 foreigners while the unemployed population is 277 people which includes people who are available, not available, seeking and not seeking.

Civil Society Organizations

All the NGOs in Gemanafushi are active. Gemanafushi has 3 civil society organizations named Womens Development Committee, Cooperative Society and MRC.

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5 IMPACT IDENTIFICATION

5.1 Introduction

Potential adverse and beneficial impacts of construction and operation stage of the proposed sewerage system are identified and evaluated in this section.

Significant impacts are identified and evaluated in two stages. The first stage identifies the environmental and socio-economic components that may be impacted from key project activities. The second stage determines the significance of impacts of each component. The following sections provide details of the evaluation of impacts.

Nature of potential impacts is defined here as No Impact, Adverse Impact or Beneficial Impact. Table 5.1 below provides the nature of potential impacts from the proposed project on environmental and socio-economic aspects by the project components. Where impacts are not applicable to different components, this is indicated as ‘X’. Some aspects may be affected both adversely (indicated as [-]) and beneficially (indicated as [+]) from the project.

5.2 Impact Identification and Evaluation

Environmental and socio-economic aspects that may be impacted by the changes to the project as identified in Table 5.1 are further evaluated to identify significant impacts. Assessments of the impacts are conducted using the four criteria of Magnitude, Reversibility, Duration and Distribution as described below. Evaluation of key impacts is provided in Table 5.2.

1. Magnitude: Refers to the quantum of change that will be experienced as a consequence of the impact.

2. Reversibility: Refers to the degree of reversibility of an impact (i.e. ease of reversing the conditions).

3. Duration: Refers to the temporal scale (i.e. duration, frequency) of the impact. It does not take into account the duration of the impact’s effects.

4. Distribution: Refers to the spatial scale of the area impacted (e.g. a small portion of a reef or an entire lagoon)

Estimates for negative impacts represent a ‘worst case scenario’ based on the assumption that the project will undergo full-scale development with no consideration for its environmental and social consequences, i.e. significance is assessed prior to implementation of mitigation measures. Values are attributed by the EIA team on the basis of direct observation of surveyed sites, professional judgment and pre-existing experience in development projects of similar nature.

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5.3 Evaluation of Cumulative Impacts

While direct primary impacts are relatively easy to identify and evaluate, special consideration needs to be afforded to evaluating cumulative impacts. While it is relatively simple to identify and evaluate direct primary impacts, the complex nature of natural systems makes it difficult to accurately predict synergistic and interactive impacts of a particular development project. On the other hand, it is relatively simple to identify potential additive impacts.

The following sources of cumulative impacts were considered in evaluating the potential impacts of the project.

- Time crowding: overall impacts of many similar concurrent developments. E.g. while many marine species and birds are relatively versatile and can relocate to other similar habitats following disturbances, concurrent developments in nearby habitats will reduce their chances of relocation and survival.

- Space crowding: high density of impacts on a single environmental medium. E.g. release of effluent from different sources into the same area.

- Indirect impacts: secondary and tertiary impacts resulting from an activity. E.g. groundwater contamination can affect the growth of terrestrial plants, which result in loss of habitat for terrestrial fauna. Triggers and thresholds: ecological systems can undergo fundamental changes beyond certain thresholds. Standards and guidelines have been developed based on anticipated threshold levels, for instance, in determining water quality. Such standards have been considered, where available

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Figure 5.1: Estimated Affected Area

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Table 5.1: Impact Identification Matrix

Project Activity

Services

Demand for Resources and and Resources Groundwater Processes Coastal water Marine Flora Terrestrial and Fauna Condition Soil and Flora Marine Fauna Integrity/ Landscape Scenery Risk Hazard Natural Health Safety and Ambient noise level noise Ambient Ambient air quality emissions GHG Local Economy Cohesion Social Mobilization and Site Preparation - - - - X X - X X - X - - + X Construction of Administrative Building - - - - X X - - X - X - - X X Network pipe installation - - - - X - X X X - X - X X X Sewage outfall pipe installation - - - X - - X X - - X - X X X Decommission septic tanks - - X - X X X - X - X - X X X Waste Management X - - - X X X X X - X - - X X Operation of pump stations - - - +/- X X X X X X X X X X X Sewage disposal X X X X X - X X - X X - X X X

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Table 5.2: Evaluation of key impacts on the natural and economic environment

Impact area Direct Impacts Indirect/ Cumulative Magnitude Reversibility Duration Distribution Significance Impacts and Impact Interactions

Ambient Exposure to loud noises Indirect adverse Moderate Reversible Short term Vicinity of Minor noise level generated from operation of impact of noise negative project site construction equipment, and pollution includes (Construction machineries have direct increase medical equipment is adverse health impacts, and expenses, reduction in not expected may disturb, and disrupt productivity of to be behaviour of terrestrial fauna workers, and those operated in the area (e.g. impede exposed. continuously foraging and mating for long behaviour of birds). periods)

Ambient air Dust pollution, and Indirect impacts Minor Reversible Long term Island level Insignificant quality degradation of air quality include adverse health negative from emission from impact to those machineries, vessels, and exposed to high levels vehicles used for of dust, and toxic construction. gases, increase in medical expenses, and reduction in productivity of workers, and those exposed.

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Impact area Direct Impacts Indirect/ Cumulative Magnitude Reversibility Duration Distribution Significance Impacts and Impact Interactions

GHG Increase in GHG in Cumulative increase in Minor Reversible in Short term Global level Minor emissions atmosphere due to GHG GHG level of negative the long term emission from construction atmosphere from equipment, vehicles, and various GHG emission (Emissions vessels used for sources in the country. expected to transportation contribute of be global warming. negligible)

Groundwater Accidental spillage of fuel, Vegetation and soil of Moderate Irreversible Long term Island level Major lubricants, etc. contaminate the island will be negative groundwater lens of the adversely affected. island.

Excavation and subsequent Groundwater used for Moderate Reversible Long terms Island level Moderate dewatering activities, can non-potable uses can negative over time salinize the groundwater lens be affected. of the island.

Coastal Potential changes to the flow - Insignificant Reversible in Long term Island level Minor Processes velocity due deployment of the long term sewage outfall pipeline. with costly implications

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Impact area Direct Impacts Indirect/ Cumulative Magnitude Reversibility Duration Distribution Significance Impacts and Impact Interactions

Marine water Excavator movement, and Indirect impact on Moderate Reversible Short to Island level Moderate placement of sewage physiological fitness negative medium term pipeline on seabed may stir of marine organisms, up sediment, and generate and community sediment plumes. composition of the marine ecosystem.

Accidental spillage of waste, Major Reversible Medium to Island level Major fuel and lubricants into the negative with costly long terms marine environment will clean-up contaminate the marine effort environment.

Terrestrial Loss and disturbance to - Moderate Irreversible Long term Site level Minor Flora and terrestrial flora and fauna negative Fauna due to vegetation clearance (Large trees and worker actions. within all clearance zones will be relocated)

Soil Contamination of soil from Indirect impacts Moderately Reversible Long term Site level Moderate Condition accidental spillage, leakage include potential negative with costly of fuel, lubricants etc. during groundwater treatment and

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Impact area Direct Impacts Indirect/ Cumulative Magnitude Reversibility Duration Distribution Significance Impacts and Impact Interactions

construction, and leachate contamination, and Remediation from waste storage areas. plants in the area may measures. take up contaminants leading to accumulation of contaminant in the food chain. Marine Flora The benthic organisms and Indirect impact on Moderate Reversible in Long term Site level Major and Fauna habitat of marine organisms marine biodiversity negative the long in the direct footprint of the includes stress on the term. sewage outfall pipeline, and marine ecosystem excavator movement area caused by sediment Sea grass bed will be lost. plumes, and turbidity forms the generated by these majority of works. the excavator movement Direct physical damage to Cumulative adverse pathway. Sea fishes, and other marine impact on marine grass is species such as turtle within ecosystem – on-going, expected to the vicinity of these works. periodic warming of return back seas, and stressors to over time. reefs are exposed.

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Impact area Direct Impacts Indirect/ Cumulative Magnitude Reversibility Duration Distribution Significance Impacts and Impact Interactions

Landscape Loss of visual amenity due - Minor Practically Short term Site level Moderate Integrity/ to built structures and irreversible Scenery vegetation removal.

Natural ------Hazard Risk

Health and Accidents related to Indirect impacts from Moderate Possibly Long term Island level Moderate Safety equipment handling, vehicle contamination of irreversible operation, and pollution water air and soil.

Demand for -. ------Resources and Services

Local Temporary employment - Minor Reversible Short term Island level Minor Economy opportunities for positive construction related activities. Trade of food and

beverages, and other daily

necessities would also temporarily improve, with the influx of external construction workers.

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6 SIGNIFICANT IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES

6.1 Impacts on Natural Environment during Construction Phase

6.1.1 Ambient Noise Level, Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Emissions

During the mobilisation of equipment and operation of heavy machinery, it is anticipated that significant noise will be generated. In addition, dust and emissions, including greenhouse gases, from vehicle and machinery exhausts will degrade the air quality.

However, these adverse impacts will be short term and can be mitigated to avoid nuisance to the residents, and workers. With proper mitigation measures, it is unlikely that noise and air pollution impacts will cause long term effects such as human health risks leading to increased public and private health costs. While emitted greenhouse gases can persist in the atmosphere in the long term, the level of emission from this project is expected to be negligible.

6.1.2 Groundwater and Soil Condition

The construction and development of the sewerage network, and associated buildings is expected to have some impact on the quality and quantity of the groundwater and soil condition.

During the constructional phase oil, paint or other chemicals will need to be handled properly. Mishandling of fuel has led to serious pollution of soil and groundwater aquifer in some of the construction projects. This sort of pollution may sometimes have long-term irreversible effects, extending through the operations stage, since such contamination does not degrade itself and is expensive to clean up. The clean-up itself may require extensive groundwater extraction, which will cause impacts such as salt-water intrusion.

During the construction stage, civil works including excavation will be undertaken to make way for foundations for buildings. Erection of these structures will require removal of sand and possibly dewatering of groundwater for concrete foundations. Therefore, this stage of construction will affect the soil and groundwater and may potentially cause saline intrusion. The extent and level of salinization will depend on the location of the structure being built. In general, excavation and dewatering in areas close to the Vadose zone or areas close to the beach makes the groundwater vulnerable to salinization.

Excavation for building foundations and pipelines can also expose groundwater and the deeper sections of the soil to more harmful contaminants such as oils and hydrocarbons from vehicles and other machineries used during the construction that may contaminate the land.

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6.1.3 Terrestrial Flora and Fauna

Project is undertaken in an urban setting, where much of vegetation has been cleared to construct buildings, and roads. However vegetation clearance is required for the construction of the admin building site, pump stations, and Sewage Treatment Plant site. All large trees, and any coconut palms removed for this project will be replanted in nearby locations with similar condition.

For pipe networks, vegetation clearance is not required as all pipelines will be laid along the roads, and no large trees will need to be removed for this purpose.

6.1.4 Marine Water Quality

Sewage outfall pipeline installation using excavator is likely to generate sediment plumes, leading to turbid water conditions in the area. However given the small scale of this project, sediment plumes generated from excavator operations is not expected to be significant to cause severe increase in turbidity level of waters at the project location.

Construction activities require the use of chemical substances such as fuel, oil, paints and handling of waste material. Accidental spillage of such substances, particularly during transportation or offloading, can lead to marine water contamination. Hence, special care should be taken to avoid accidental spills and leakage.

6.1.5 Marine Biodiversity

Construction stage of the project is expected to have direct and indirect adverse impacts on the flora and fauna of the marine environment. Baseline assessment undertaken for this assessment showed that the lagoon bottom at the proposed sewage outfall pipeline is predominantly made up of a thick seagrass bed, and the overall live coral cover at reef slope above 5 m depth was low (~6%).

Direct impacts on marine biodiversity include physical damage to seabed substratum, and loss of associated marine organisms such as seagrass, algae, molluscs, sea cucumbers etc. within the direct footprint of the sewage outfall pipeline, and excavator movement area. Introduction of pipeline (hard substrate) may create a microhabitat for corals, algae, tunicates and other organisms to establish.

In addition, increased level of turbidity and suspended solid during the sewage outfall pipe installation, directly stress organisms in the area. However as mentioned earlier given the small scale of this project and occurrence of thick seagrass bed at the proposed outfall pipe footprint any sediment plume generated is expected to subside shortly. However caution needs to be taken to ensure sediment plume generation from the project activities are minimal.

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6.1.6 Impact on Unique Habitats

The north eastern corner of the reef system of Gemanafushi (Maareha Kandu 0.456111°, 73.570556°) is listed as an Environmentally Sensitive Area (ESA) by the EPA. It is identified as a recreational diving location to spot sharks, such Tiger Shark, Grey Reef Sharks Hammerhead Sharks, and also Marlin and Sailfish.

The proposed sewage disposal location is in close proximity (approx. less than 800 m) to the ESA. Hence, alternative sewage disposal sites, and methods of sewage disposal needs to be evaluated to minimize any adverse impact on the ESA.

6.1.7 Impact on visual amenity

The proposed project will affect the amenity value of this area to some extent due to the presence of heavy vehicles, building construction, and excavation works. However, these impacts will be for the duration of the construction phase.

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6.2 Impacts on the Natural Environment during Operational Phase

6.2.1 Air Quality Degradation and GHG emissions

Operation of wastewater systems will contribute to degradation of air quality and GHG emission through, power consumption for the pump stations

Power requirement for the pump stations will be met by the existing power station in Gemanafushi Island. Therefore, operation of the units will lead to localised air pollution. Air quality will also be degraded by odour released from pump stations.

6.2.2 Noise Pollution

The main sources of potential noise pollution are the pump stations Noise levels from the pump stations are not expected to be high enough to cause a nuisance to nearby households and other community facilities. With proper maintenance noise pollution can be greatly minimized. Hence, significantly excessive levels of noise and air pollution are not anticipated during operation of the sewerage network.

6.2.3 Marine Water Quality

The sewerage system proposed does not incorporate treatment of sewage at any level. Discharge of untreated raw sewage introduces a variety of pollutants (e.g. suspended solids, organic pollutants, nutrients) to the marine environment, reducing the overall quality of the seawater.

The proposed sewage disposal site is located on the ocean ward of the reef, and is perceived to have strong currents that will dilute and disperse sewage efficiently. The purpose of placing the outfall beyond the reef is to ensure adequate dilution of effluent by current patterns at the selected location. Furthermore, a T-head diffuser will be fixed to the discharge end of the ocean outfall pipeline to increase dilution performance and dispersion of effluent. Hence, pollutants are not expected to retain in the area for long periods, and disperse quickly.

6.2.4 Marine Biodiversity

Raw sewage introduces a variety of stressors such as dissolved inorganic nutrients (DIN), pathogens, toxins, endocrine disruptors etc. to the coral reef ecosystem. Hence discharge of untreated raw sewage onto coral reef environment can have multiple adverse impacts on a coral reef ecosystem. This includes eutrophication, accumulation of toxins the marine food chain, changes in composition of species (e.g. increase in pollutant tolerant species), and long term deterioration of the coral reefs.

Magnitude of impact of these stressors on the ecosystem will depend on level of exposure, and retention period. Hence the prevailing flushing rate and dilution level at the discharge point is of

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6.2.5 Ground Water Quality

The existing system of septic tanks has lead to groundwater contamination by raw sewage and effluent leakage reducing the quality of water for non-potable uses. The operation of the sewerage system will contribute to the protection of groundwater with its effective collection and disposal system.

However, during operation of the system effluent may be released to the surrounding environment due to blocked inspection chambers at household level, damaged/blocked pipes or an overflow at pump stations. As the system will be operated on power supply from existing powerhouse any power cuts that may occur could lead to overflow at pump stations. Release of effluent will potentially cause soil and groundwater contamination and unpleasant odour. Health risks may be associated with contaminated groundwater. Hence, special attention needs to be given to regular and adequate maintenance of the sewerage system to avoid such leakages.

6.3 Impacts on the Socio-economic Environment

6.3.1 Health and Safety

Health and safety risks arising from construction work is high, especially due to the use of specialised equipment and machinery. Accidents related to equipment use can lead to injury, and fatalities. Materials used in construction, in addition to the equipment and machinery, also involve risks to health and safety. Accidental spills/ leakage of hazardous substances can contaminate the site and pose risks to human health, including workers on the site and the local population. The project activities include measures to minimise risks to health and safety of workers.

6.3.2 Business and Employment Opportunities

The potential beneficial impacts of the proposed development are mainly socio-economic impacts. Socioeconomic benefits of the construction stage include:

− Employment opportunities during construction works

− Business opportunity for local suppliers

− Opportunity for local contract workers

− Opportunity for locals to rent out property, equipment, machinery, vehicles and vessels.

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6.4 Mitigation Measures for Significant Adverse Impacts

6.4.1 Air and Noise Pollution

Project activities that can lead to air and noise pollution are operation of equipment and machinery, both during construction and operations.

Mitigation Measures • Properly tune and maintain all vehicles and machinery • Keep ground/ soil damp to minimize dust/ topsoil erosion by wind • Conduct construction activities during daytime to minimize nuisance to humans and fauna • Monitor all occupational areas to ensure noise levels do not exceed WHO standards • Regularly maintain the pump stations.

The main cost during operation phase will be maintenance of the pump stations.

6.4.2 Contamination of Marine Water, Groundwater and Land

Contamination of marine water, groundwater and land can occur both during construction and operation. Construction activities have a particularly high potential for pollution. Contaminants can include construction materials, fuel, chemicals used for different purposes (including land clearing) and construction waste. Exposure of groundwater and deeper soil sections by excavation for construction increases the risk of groundwater contamination.

6.4.2.1 Construction Activities

Construction activities that can lead to contamination of groundwater, soil and marine waters include:

• Accidental spillage of construction materials • Improper storage of chemicals and raw materials used for construction • Improper stockpiling and disposal of construction stage waste

Mitigation Measures • Oil, solid waste & hazardous waste handled carefully & transported in sealed containers. • All paints, lubricants, and other chemicals used on site stored in a secure and bunded location • All raw materials stored away from the vicinity of the coastal areas

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• General refuse stockpiled in one central area • Keep spill cleanup materials readily available • Train workers in spill prevention and cleanup, and designate responsible individuals • Properly tune and maintain all machinery • Carry out construction activities under the supervision of a suitably experienced person

Costs are to be included in the contract value and are mainly the responsibility of the contractor.

6.4.2.2 Solid Waste

Improper disposal of solid waste during construction can contaminate the receiving environment.

Mitigation Measures

• All supply boats, dive boats and transfer vessels should be equipped with trash bins within easy reach and sign should be displayed to encourage use of trash bins

• Regular disposal of waste material to the nearest designated waste disposal site

6.4.2.3 Fuel

Fuel spillage/ leakage during handling and storage can also contaminate the receiving environment.

Mitigation Measures

• Fuel will be handled at sealed areas only.

• In transportation, the danger of spilling diesel fuel into the sea or the coral environment as well as on the island will be reduced by tight fittings and appropriate material.

• Precautions to avoid spilling of diesel fuel (filling up of tanks and canisters, refuelling of boats) will also be given by instructions to the staff ("handle fuel carefully, avoid spilling").

• Care should be taken in the refuelling process of boats to avoid any spillage of fuel.

These mitigation measures mainly involve routine maintenance activities, and do not include additional costs.

6.4.3 Groundwater Depletion

Groundwater depletion can occur due to dewatering for construction of building foundations and excavation for laying sewerage pipelines.

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Mitigation Measures

• Discharge extracted water within the island to assist aquifer recharge. This measure mainly involve routine activities, and do not include additional costs.

6.4.4 Loss of Terrestrial Vegetation and Fauna

All large trees and coconut palms removed from this project should be replanted in nearby locations

Mitigation Measures

• Clearly mark vegetation to be relocated and communicate to workers.

• Only the sites of building and footpaths will be cleared for construction purposes and removal of scrubs and shrubs will be limited to the minimum extent required.

• Signs to guide workers to proper environmental care.

• Clear green waste to prevent pest infestations.

6.4.5 Removal of Marine Organisms / Marine Habitat Destruction

As mentioned in the previous section, the footprint of excavator operations, and sewage outfall pipeline deployment area, is going to directly impact benthic organisms.

Mitigation Measures

• Relocate live coral in footprint. A summary of key steps involved in relocation of corals are as follows:

. Small to medium sized live coral colonies within the direct footprint of the project area will be carefully harvested, using tools such as chisel and hammer. . The harvested colonies, coral fragments will be placed in plastic flow through boxes. These boxes will be kept underwater, using floaters, and towed from the collection site to the relocation site. . Hard substrate (e.g. rock) at the site will be cleaned using a brush to clear the base onto which the corals will be reattached. . Coral colonies, and fragments collected will be attached onto the base using epoxy glue, or cement. . Once reattached, these colonies will be monitored periodically to ensure success rate of establishment. . Attempts could be made to move all moderately large coral colonies by attaching a steel frame or a steel chain mesh to the bottom of the colonies, and lifting them to about within 1-2 m from water level. An excavator mounted on a landing craft or barge can be used for the purpose. A purpose built pulley and frame system attached to a barge or a

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boat can also be used. The suspended coral laden frame can be transported to the site while attached to the vessel. The process should be assisted by experienced divers. This method will have to be tried on a trial-and-error basis as it has not been tried in the Maldives before. • Restrict movement of excavators, and outfall pipe within a set boundary.

The main cost would be for relocation of live coral, which is estimated to be about USD 5,000.

6.4.6 Occupational Health Impacts

Occupational health impacts may occur due to: • Accidents during machine and equipment operation. • Exposure to chemical contamination in water/ air. • Respiratory health impacts due to air pollution during construction. • High noise level during construction. • Drowning

Mitigation Measures

• All health and safety precautions described in Chapter 2 will be implemented. They include the following.

o Health checks will be administered before work commences. o Warning signs, barricades or warning devices will be provided and used. o Necessary safety gear will be worn at all times. These include safety gloves, construction boots, facemasks, earmuffs, etc.

o Fire extinguishing equipment would be readily available and employees will be trained in its use.

o Oxygen, acetylene or LPG bottles will not be left freestanding. o First aid kits will be made available on site. o The construction site will be properly closed to unauthorised personnel. o All underwater activities will be carried out by experienced and certified scuba divers, with all required safety measures.

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7 ALTERNATIVES

7.1 “No-Project” Alternative

The No Project option takes the following into account.

− The island continues with the existing sewage disposal system of household septic tanks.

− Groundwater contamination from existing waste water disposal system and the resulting poor quality of water for non-potable usage will remain. The comparison of benefits of each alternative is provided in Table 7.1 below.

Table 7.1: Summary of no project alternative

Advantages Disadvantages

• Adverse environmental impacts related to • Groundwater quality will continue to development can be avoided, particularly deteriorate with the existing poor sewage potential damage to coral reef and reef disposal method on the island. ecosystem during construction of the • outfall pipeline, and disposal of raw Health risks arising from poor sanitation sewage. will continue to exacerbate with increase in population. • No development cost for the proponent. • Expensive alternative water source may need to be sought in the future, with long term financial implications on the

community.

• Loss of opportunity for the community to access a proper sewage disposal system.

The advantages of undertaking the project far exceeds the disadvantages, hence it is proposed to go ahead with the project.

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7.2 Alternative Outfall Locations

The proposed sewage outfall extends from the island, towards the eastern side of the island. This location has good flushing, and high wave activity. However, it is located close to the ESA Maahera. Recreational divers also frequent this area, hence installation of an outfall at this location may potentially impact divers, and also dive boat/safari operators.

Alternative A is to locate the sewage outfall south of the proposed location, away from Maahera (see Figure 7.1) .The distance from the STP, and the reef edge will be longer. Installation cost of the sewage outfall pipeline via this route is expected to be higher compared to the originally proposed route. However any impact from disposal of raw sewage on Maahera, and recreational divers, is expected to be minimized.

Alternative B is to locate the sewage outfall on the western side facing the atoll basin. Placing the outfall may result in sewage washing into harbour and beaches of the island. Hence this location was dismissed.

Based on this evaluation Alternative A is the preferred option, as it allows for rapid flushing, and also it is further away from the ESA.

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Figure 7.1: Alternative outfall location

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8 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

The Environmental Management Plan (EMP) is an important component of the EIA process, needed to determine the accuracy of impact prediction, the adequacy of mitigation measures, and level of compliance with commitments regarding implementation of mitigation measures and monitoring of relevant environmental aspects.

The main objectives of the environmental management plan are to:

− Produce a framework for managing anticipated impacts, including practicable and achievable performance requirements and systems for monitoring, reporting and implementing corrective actions. − Provide evidence of compliance to legislation, policies, guidelines and requirements of relevant authorities.

8.1 Environmental Management System

The environmental management framework for the proposed project is based on applicable standards and policies set out by the Environmental Protection Agency of the Maldives.

- Environmental Management Planning and establishment of key performance indicators: The EMP specifies environmental management measures and required performance standards. - Monitoring and corrective action: The implementation of EMP measures will be monitored. Any inconsistencies between the EMP and its on-site implementation will be identified and addressed through corrective actions. - Auditing, reviews and improvement: The EMP will be reviewed. Improvements to the EMP will be made as necessary to achieve desired environmental outcomes.

The environmental management strategy is demonstrated in the following figure.

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Commitment to environmental regulations, policies and guidelines

Environmental Management Plan (EMP)

Implementation of EMP

Improvements to Corrective and EMP preventative actions Monitoring EMP

Review of EMP

Figure 8.1: Environmental Management Strategy flow diagram

8.2 Management Structure and Responsibilities

The following parties are involved in the EMP of this project:

− Project proponent − Contractor − Environmental consultant − Environmental Protection Agency

The roles and responsibilities of the parties involved are as follows.

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8.2.1 Project proponent

− Execution of all project activities − Preparation of EMP − Detailed designs of sewerage system − Monitoring of the project activities − Submission of annual environmental monitoring reports as required by the EPA

8.2.2 Environmental Consultant

− Preparation of EMP − Monitoring of performance of project activities according to the EMP − Auditing the EMP to ensure desired outcomes are achieved − Making amendments to the EMP according to the results of the audits − Preparation of environmental monitoring report as required by the EPA (detailed in Chapter 9 of this report)

8.2.3 Environmental Protection Agency

− Approval of Environmental Impact Assessment Report − Review environmental monitoring reports − Intervention in the event of a breach in environmental permit conditions − Site visit and inspection before commissioning of the sewerage system

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Figure 8.2: Environmental Management Plan for construction and operation phase

Environmental Protection Agency Project proponent Environmental consultant

• Issues raised from periodic review • Training of personnel • Training of personnel of project • Environmental monitoring • Environmental monitoring • Recording of complaints • Recording of incidents audits • Recording of complaints and • Review of EMP follow up actions • Review of EMP

Preparation of draft environmental report

Submission of report Annual environmental monitoring report finalized

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8.3 Management Strategies and Actions

8.3.1 Construction and Operation of Sewerage Network

The sewerage network should be constructed and operated in accordance with the Decision Note issued by the EPA, other regulatory requirements and this EIA report.

The key project components are specified in Project Description chapter.

8.3.1.1 Supervision and Management

The sewerage network construction and operation is to be supervised by suitably experienced and trained staff at all times.

Proponent will provide a minimum one (1) staff member on site at any given time to supervise ensure that construction activities comply with permit(s), relevant regulations, guidelines and this EIA report. In an event of non-compliance, the supervisor is to record, document, report, and record any corrective actions taken.

Similarly during operational phase, proponent will provide a minimum one (1) staff member on site at any given time to ensure that overall management, supervision, operation and maintenance of the sewer network are achieved such as:

- Regular inspection of the sewer network for faults, leakages etc. - Maintenance of pump stations, and sewer network

8.3.1.2 Staff Training

All staff involved in the construction and operation of the sewerage network will be adequately trained to conduct respective tasks allocated in a safe and proper manner,

At a minimum training of staff involved during the construction phase is to ensure:

1. Appropriate use of Personal Protective Equipment 2. Proper health and safety procedures. 3. Appropriate response to fire and emergencies 4. Proper action to contain and clean oil/chemical spillages 5. Procedure for recording, documenting, and reporting accidents/injuries 6. Procedure for road closures, setting up road signage (e.g. Road Closed, directional), and proper procedure of informing all relevant authorities and stakeholder (e.g. Island Council, Hospital, School, and affected neighbourhoods) 7. Proper documentation and record keeping

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Staff operating specialized equipment (welding equipment), or vehicles (e.g. excavator) will be required to provide proof competence (e.g. through license, experience, trainings undertaken), and these should be recorded, and documented by the proponent prior to commencement of the construction activities.

Similarly at minimum training of staff involved in the operation phase is to ensure:

1. Appropriate use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) 2. Proper health and safety procedures. 3. Appropriate response to fire and emergencies 4. Appropriate response procedure for complaints received 5. Proper procedure to respond to leakages in the network. 6. Using, inspecting, repairing, sewer network monitoring and maintenance equipment 7. Proper documentation and record keeping

8.3.1.3 Health and Safety

Proponent will ensure that all staff and contractors are provided with training in workplace, health and safety issues as it relates to the duties performed during construction and operation of the sewerage network. All staff will be made aware of the potential hazards, and risks of undertaking their respective tasks.

Proponent shall ensure that staffs are provided with PPE as required to perform their duties in a safe and responsible manner.

Signage relating to safety on construction sites will be clearly displayed for the public, contractors, and staff visiting the site to ensure that safety precautions are adhered to.

8.3.1.4 Personal Protective Equipment

Construction sites at all times have a fully stocked first aid kit.

Staff will be provided with all required PPE (e.g. gloves, hard-soled shoes, hard hats, dust masks, noise mufflers, and safety clothing as may be necessary).

8.3.1.5 Noise management

There are no national standards or noise limits. Since there are residential properties adjacent to the proposed construction areas, the proponent will implement the following measures to minimize the noise generated during construction activities.

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- All construction equipment and vehicles will be operated within specified working hours, that will have the least impact on surrounding residents e.g. between 09:00 AM to 06:00 PM - All equipment and vehicles will be regularly tuned and maintained - All construction workers and project management staff provided with information on general environmental issues, compliance with environmental permits and EIA report.

8.3.1.6 Environmental Monitoring, Reporting and Audit

A regular environment monitoring programme will be conducted to observe any changes to the environment and this programme would be mainly directed at continuously understanding and reporting the reef health, lagoon water quality, and ground water quality.

An independent environmental audit will be conducted every year. The purpose of this audit is to check whether all the operations of the sewerage network conform to the standards set by the government authorities and to evaluate the success of the policies and programmes implemented by the proponent and identify where improvements can be made.

8.4 Non-Conformances and Corrective Action

All non-conformances to the environmental permit conditions, observed during monitoring will be documented.

Necessary corrective actions and preventative actions will be identified.

Corrective actions will be implemented, with systematic follow-ups to ensure effectiveness of these measures.

8.5 Reporting

Reporting shall be undertaken to provide evidence of the ongoing implementation of the EMP and will cover any training activities, site conditions and operations, monitoring data, details of non-conformances, incidents, complaints and follow up action, results of audits and reviews. Reporting shall be undertaken by the project proponent and the Environmental Consultant.

The environmental reporting process is summarized in the figure 8.2. All non-compliances and complaints during the execution of the project are to be reported to the EPA.

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9 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PLAN

9.1 Introduction

This chapter will outline the monitoring plan for the proposed project. Environmental monitoring is essential because, although with proper mitigation measures, the overall environmental damage can be significantly minimized, an unforeseen impact may still occur. Furthermore, some of the impacts predicted may turn out to be far greater than predicted, making mitigation measures ineffective. Therefore, in order to avoid or reduce the chances of such events, regular and frequent environmental monitoring is vital.

9.2 Objectives of the Monitoring Plan

The main objectives of the monitoring plan are:

1) To identify whether the predicted impacts are accurate and mitigation measures taken are effective.

2) To identify any unforeseen impacts so that appropriate mitigation measures can be taken at the earliest.

3) To identify and resolve any issues of social unrest at the earliest. 4) To eliminate or reduce environmental costs.

9.3 Before Construction

The monitoring assessments prescribed in Table 9.1 are required before construction, if the construction activities begin 12 months after this EIA.

9.4 Monitoring during Construction Phase

Table 9.2 shows the details of the different monitoring attributes and parameters must be monitored during the construction stage.

Additionally, the following aspects will be monitored during the construction stage to ensure that environmental impacts are minimized.

1) Daily monitoring to ensure that the construction processes are not creating any significant dust nuisance for the local environment.

2) Daily monitoring of vehicle refuelling and repair should be undertaken to ensure that these exercises are carried out on hardstands and to ensure that they are done properly.

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This is to reduce the potential of soil contamination from spills. Spot checks will be conducted by the site supervisor.

3) Daily inspection of site clearance activities to ensure that the proposed building plans are followed.

4) Daily inspection to ensure work sites are properly closed off, with all required health and safety measures are followed at the site.

5) Undertake daily assessment of the quantity of construction waste generated, and provide verification of its ultimate disposal.

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Table 9.1: Monitoring Schedule for pre-construction Stage (if required)

Monitoring Locations & Applicable Est. Total Indicator Methodology Frequency Attribute samples standard Costs MVR1 The following parameters will be Three Maldives EPA 7,000 tested: Locations marine water pH, Salinity, Electrical (sites SW1, Marine Once prior to Conductivity, Total Dissolved Onsite testing/ SW2, and monitoring standards Water commencement of Solids (TDS), Dissolved Oxygen Laboratory SW3) Quality construction activities (DO), Turbidity, Biological analysis (Marine) Oxygen Demand (BOD), Total One sample Suspended Solids (TSS), Total for each site Coliform, and Fecal Coliform. The following parameters will be Four Locations Maldives EPA 10,000 tested: (sites GW1, Once prior to ground water Ground Temperature, pH, Electrical Onsite testing/ GW2, GW3, commencement of water Conductivity, Chloride, Laboratory and GW4) monitoring standards construction activities Quality Ammonia, Sulphate, Nitrate, analysis

BOD, COD, Total Coliform, and One sample Fecal Coliform. Photo Quadrat Three Maldives EPA coral 9,000 Benthic substrate composition; Once prior to Surveys. locations: Coral Reef including live coral cover. commencement of reef health

Health construction activities Fish Census T1, T2, and T3 monitoring standards Fish species abundance Survey Entire Island, Once prior to Maldives EPA 8,000 commencement of vegetation Vegetation Vegetation Cover Aerial Imagery construction activities monitoring standards

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Monitoring Locations & Applicable Est. Total Indicator Methodology Frequency Attribute samples standard Costs MVR1 Proposed Once prior to Maldives EPA noise 3,000 Spot readings pump station commencement of monitoring standards Noise Noise level using a noise sites, STP, and meter admin building construction activities

Table 9.2: Monitoring Schedule for Construction Stage

Monitoring Locations & Applicable Est. Total Indicator Methodology Frequency Attribute samples standard Costs MVR2 Three Maldives EPA 7,000 pH, Salinity, Electrical locations (sites marine water Conductivity, TDS, DO, Onsite testing/ SW1, SW2, Once upon completion of Turbidity, BOD, TSS, Total Laboratory and SW3) sewage outfall pipeline monitoring Coliform, and Fecal Coliform. analysis installation. standards Marine Water One sample Quality for each site Three Maldives EPA 5,800 Weekly during sewage Onsite testing/ locations (sites marine water outfall pipeline installation Turbidity, and TSS Laboratory SW1, and monitoring works. (assumed 16 weeks analysis SW2,) standards required for this component)

Temperature, pH, Electrical Four Locations Maldives EPA 10,000 Conductivity, Chloride, Onsite testing/ (sites GW1, ground water Ground Water Once upon completion of Ammonia, Sulphate, Nitrate, Laboratory GW2, GW3, monitoring Quality project BOD, COD, Total Coliform, and analysis and GW4) standards Fecal Coliform.

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Monitoring Locations & Applicable Est. Total Indicator Methodology Frequency Attribute samples standard Costs MVR2 All area where NA Costs to be Oil spills Visual oil is handled Daily for the duration of the included in (Surface layer of groundwater) observation project contractor Marine Water fees Contamination Maintenance All area where NA Costs to be Oil leakage from machinery or and tuning of oil is handled Daily during the construction included in vessels all machinery Excavated area phase contractor & vessels fees Whole island NA Costs to be Daily log of included. in waste contractor quantities and Solid Waste Daily during construction fees Waste generation levels records of monitoring stage ultimate disposal

Transect sites coral reef health 9,000 Photo Quadrat Percent of live coral cover, and T1, T2, T3 monitoring survey; Upon completion sewage Coral reef health fish species abundance and standards Fish census outfall installation works composition

No of trees removed for the Environmental Costs to be Daily for the duration of the Vegetation construction of sewerage network Logs Whole island regulations included in project contractor and associated buildings fees.

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Table 9.3: Monitoring Schedule for Operation Stage

Monitoring Locations & Applicable Est. Total Indicator Methodology Frequency Attribute samples standard Costs MVR3 Three Maldives EPA 20,000 pH, Salinity, Electrical locations (sites marine water Conductivity, TDS, DO, Onsite testing/ SW1, and Marine Water Biannually for the first two Turbidity, BOD, TSS, Total Laboratory SW2) monitoring Quality years. Coliform, and Fecal Coliform. analysis standards One sample for each site Temperature, pH, Electrical Four Locations Maldives EPA 40,000 Conductivity, Chloride, Onsite testing/ (sites GW1, ground water Ground Water Biannually for the first two Ammonia, Sulphate, Nitrate, Laboratory GW2, GW3, monitoring Quality years BOD, COD, Total Coliform, and analysis and GW4) standards Fecal Coliform. Island NA No additional Log Daily during operation for Noise Noise complaints cost complaints the first year

Transect sites EPA coral reef 18,000 Photo Quadrat Percent of live coral cover, and T1, T2, T3 health monitoring survey; Annually for the first two Coral reef health fish species abundance and standards Fish census years composition

Effluent water quality: pH, BOD, Laboratory WHO Effluent Monthly for the first five 5500 Effluent water Testing/Onsite Environmental TSS, nitrate, phosphate, and DO sample months testing Quality Standards

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9.5 Monitoring Report

A detailed environmental monitoring report is required to be compiled and submitted to the EPA annually based on the data collected for monitoring the parameters included in the monitoring plan given in the EIA. This report may be submitted to the relevant Government agencies in order to demonstrate compliance. The report will include details of the site, strategy of data collection and analysis, quality control measures, sampling frequency and monitoring analysis and details of methodologies and protocols followed. In addition to this more frequent reporting of environmental monitoring will be communicated among the environmental consultant, project proponent, the contractors and supervisors to ensure possible negative impacts are mitigated appropriately during and after the project.

9.6 Cost of Monitoring

Estimated environmental monitoring cost of pre-construction stage (if required) is about MVR 112,000. Estimated monthly environmental monitoring cost for construction phase is approximately MVR 90,000. Estimated annual environmental monitoring cost during operation phase is about MVR 125,000.

Professional consultants will be hired to undertake the monitoring and the necessary equipment for monitoring will be procured.

Individual parameter costs are provided in the relevant tables above.

9.7 Commitment to Monitoring

The proponent is committed to undertake environmental monitoring as outlined in this report (see Appendix I).

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10 STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATIONS

10.1 Introduction

Stakeholder consultation were carried out with Gemanafushi Island Council, FENAKA Local Branch, Local Cable Service Provider, and members of the general public from Gemanafushi Island.

10.1.1 Meeting with Ga. Gemanafushi Island Council, FENAKA (local branch), and Ampus Net (Local Cable Service Provide)

Date: 26th October 2017

Venue: Gemanafushi Council Office

Table 0.1: List of persons consulted

# Name Designation Office Email Mobile Mohamed 1 Asst. Manager FENAKA - 7599920 Shaheed Ahmed 2 Accounts Officer FENAKA - 9990570 Mujuthaba 7899483 / 3 Ilham Mohamed Supervisor FENAKA - 9981194 7916609 / 4 Abdulla Shiyan Council President Gemanafushi Island Council [email protected] 9130070 Mohamed 7900102 / 5 Project officer Gemanafushi Island Council [email protected] Ibrahim 9900102 Mohamed 6 Director Gemanafushi island Council [email protected] 7787371 Shiyam Owner / Ampus Net / 7 Ahmed Zareer [email protected] 7867551 Chief health Officer Gemanafushi Health Centre

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Summary of Findings

• FENAKA (Time: 09:00 – 10:00) o No formal information received about this project, however, staff members are aware of such a project from the media. o Overall the project is seen as a good project as it benefits the entire community. o MWSC had conducted some preliminary surveys in the past, and those survey results said that the island would need 4 pump stations (informally known information). However, latest designs shown by CDE indicate only 2 pump stations. FENAKA believes that based on the results seen in Ga.Vilingili, 2 pump stations might not be enough for the island, especially with the increase in demand upon development of the tourism zone on the island. o Currently FENAKA has 2 engines (400kW and 250kW). The smaller engine has recently been overhauled for maintenance, and due to this, the larger engine is being run non-stop for the past few weeks. They have to cut electricity on the island every 2~ days to give this engine some rest time. o FENAKA will require additional staff if they are to take care of the day to day operations and maintenance of the Sewerage system. However, they do believe that they have the technical capacity to run such a system, as their station manager (Mr. Mohamed Hashim) is the person responsible for providing technical support to the sewerage system at Ga. Vilingili. o The powerlines are laid on the eastern side and northern side of the roads at a depth of 2.5 feet with the main cable at a depth of 3 feet. They request any contractor of the proposed project to coordinate with FENAKA during excavation works to avoid any damages to existing cables. All network designs and cable layouts will be shared with the contractor upon their request. o Although not related to FENAKA, the members at the meeting highlighted the importance of the diving area on the eastern side of the island. They believe, the importance of the site is significant enough to ensure that a Sewage Treatment Plant is placed in Gemanafushi.

• Gemanafushi Island Council (Time: 11:00 – 11:30) o The council was aware of this project for some time, especially since MWSC had been in contact with them to conduct the preliminary surveys and finding locations to base the pump stations and other buildings. o One of the most discussed points at the discussion was regarding the pump stations. There is an unclear issue regarding the number of pump stations proposed for the island. According to the council, the preliminary surveys carried

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out by MWSC identified that the island needs 4 pump stations, while the current drawings show only 2 pump stations. Based on the results seen in Ga.Vilingili where the pump stations are unable to handle the current system, the council believes that 2 pump stations are not enough. Especially since they are planning to develop the tourism zone of the island in the near future. The council would also like the network to be extended into the tourism zone, as they feel this area will be developed at a rapid pace in the near future. o The north-eastern corner of the island’s reef and the eastern side itself is a major diving and snorkelling area. During the north east monsoon at any given time at least a dozen safaris will be found near this area. It is a major hotspot for various kinds of sharks. The council is not too happy about the proposed outfall location as it is directly in the middle of this zone. In recent years, they faced complaints from the safaris when the island established their waste management centre on the eastern side of the island. So they do not want further complaints from Safari boats who use the reef currently. The council recommends to implement the project along with the Sewage Treatment Plant to ensure the safety of the reef. Otherwise, they recommend to use either the western side of the lagoon or the south-eastern side. Their recommendation on the outfall location is to leave it to the EIA team to decide based on the environmental aspects. o The general conditions of the water on the island are considered bad. The main cause of this is the lack of a sewerage system and due to disposal of post- processed fish water in to the ground. Almost 90% of the population are fisher folk or in related activities according to the council. This include(s) both the young and the old. o An additional issue raised by the council was the lack of land use plan for the island. This has also been one of the reasons why the development of the tourism zone has been delayed.

• Ampus Net (Time: 11:30 – 12:00) o No formal information received about this project, however, he was aware of such a project from the media. o They are the only cable TV service provider on the island, and their cables are laid on the opposite side of the road when compared to the power cables. These cables are laid approximately 2 feet away from the wall, and at a depth of 1.5 feet. o All existing cable network designs and layout on the island will be shared with the contractor when requested.

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o They also think it would be a good idea to establish some form of grievance mechanism, in cases where any damages are caused to existing cables. o Mr. Zareer, who represented Ampus Net in this meeting, is also the chief health officer at the health centre on the island. He highlighted the importance on this project. In recent years, Typhoid (an acute illness associated with fever caused by a bacteria) has become one of the most common diseases on the island. The deterioration of the fresh water table on the island is seen as the major cause for this. In addition, skin related diseases have also increased on the island.

10.2 Summary of key recommendations and follow-up actions

- Both the Island Council of Gemanafushi and FENAKA believes the proposed 2 pump stations are not sufficient handle sewage that will be generated in the island. - o Follow-up action/Recommendation: Proponent to meet and present details of the proposed sewerage system to both the Island Council of Gemanafushi, and FENAKA.

- Island Council of Gemanafushi recommended to relocate sewage outfall away from the main recreational scuba dive point of the reef (north eastern corner of the reef).

o Follow-up action: Alternative location of sewage outfall was evaluated in this EIA.

- Grievance mechanism for any damages to existing infrastructure such as powerlines, and cables

o Follow-up action: Proponent to devise a grievance mechanism prior to initiation of the project, and communicate with Island Council, Utilities providers, Cable TV service providers, and general public.

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11 Potential Data Gaps and Assessment Limitations

11.1 Gaps in Information

The environment of Maldives is generally poorly understood. This may be due to the lack of detailed studies in the Maldives. Much of the literatures on coral islands are derived from studies done in the Pacific which unfortunately has very different climatic and geologic settings.

Detailed environmental analysis for an EIA is often required to be undertaken in a relatively short period of time. Give the seasonal climatic variations in Maldives and the differences in local geomorphologic and climate settings in individual islands such a short time frame is often too little to assess selected aspects of the environment. This problem is compounded by the absence of long-term studies in other parts of Maldives. Hence, most EIA’s end up being based on an environmental snapshot of specific point in time. However, experienced EIA specialists can deliver a close match to reality based on a number of similar assessments. In this regard, the following gaps could be identified in information.

− Absence of long-term site specific or even regional data (at least 2 years). Most critical data include current, wave and terrestrial modification history. − Absence of historical and long-term records on reef and lagoon environment. − Absence of historical and long-term ground and marine water quality data of the island and reef system.

These gaps are seriously considered in the assessment and care has been taken to address the issue in designing mitigation measures and the monitoring programme.

11.2 Uncertainties in Impact Prediction

Environmental impact prediction involves a certain degree of uncertainty as the natural and anthropogenic impacts can vary from place to place due to even slight differences in ecological, geomorphological or social conditions in a particular place. As noted earlier, there is also no long term data and information regarding the particular site under consideration, which makes it difficult to predict impacts. However, the level of uncertainty is partially minimised due to the experience of past dredging and reclamation projects in similar settings in the Maldives. Nevertheless, it is important to consider that there will be uncertainties and voluntary monitoring of natural processes as described in the monitoring programme is absolutely essential.

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12 Conclusions

This EIA is prepared in order to assess the environmental impacts and subsequent mitigation and management programmes for the proposed sewerage network at Gemanafushi Island, Gaafu Alif atoll. Works covered in this EIA include installation of sewerage network, pump stations, and administrative building.

At present, sewage disposal for most households is by collection in septic tanks, which are laborious to maintain, and susceptible to leakage if poorly maintained. The main rationale for replacing the existing sewage disposal system with a conventional sewerage network is to improve the sanitation facilities and health of the island community.

The proposed development are generally in conformance to the laws and regulations of the Maldives. The following additional approvals are also required before commencement of project activities.

- EIA approval Decision Note

- Dewatering Permit The impacts assessment for this project shows that the construction stage of the proposed sewerage network potential contamination of islands groundwater lens, marine water, and disturbance and loss of marine flora and fauna. The project is expected to have positive impact on overall quality of islands groundwater, health of the island community, and sanitation system of the island A number of mitigation measures have been proposed in this assessment to mitigate the most significant impacts associated with the development work. The key mitigation measures proposed during the construction stage focuses on reducing the most significant environmental impacts. These include measures to prevent accidental spillage, and spill clean-ups, discharge of any groundwater extracted back to the islands aquifer. Relocation of vegetation, and live corals within the footprint of sewage outfall pipeline.

Alternatives options were evaluated for the activities that are identified to have significant impacts on or from the project. These include the no project option, and alternative outfall location.

Monitoring of the project is crucial, particularly the changes to water quality, and coral reef recovery.

Overall the project has significant beneficial socio-economic impacts to Gemanfushi Island.

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REFERENCES

ALI, S. (2005). December 26 2004 Tsunami Impact Assessment and a Tsunami Risk Assessment of the Maldives. MSc in Environmental Coastal Engineering MSc thesis, University of Southampton.

BINNIE BLACK & VEATCH 2000. Environmental / Technical study for dredging / reclamation works under Hulhumale' Project - Final Report. Male': Ministry of Construction and Public Works.

DHI 1999.Physical modelling on wave disturbance and breakwater stability, Fuvahmulah Port Project. Denmark: Port Consult.

GODA, Y. 1998. Causes of high waves at Maldives in April 1987. Male': Asia Development Bank.

HAY, J. E. (2006). Climate Risk Profile for the Maldives. Male', Maldives: Ministry of Environment Energy and Water.

KENCH, P. S., BRANDER, R. W., PARNELL, K. E. & MCLEAN, R. F. 2006. Wave energy gradients across a Maldivian atoll: Implications for island geomorphology. Geomorphology, 81, 1-17.

MEC 2004. Maldives: State of the Environment 2004, Male', Ministry of Environment and Construction.

NASEER, A. 2003. The integrated growth response of coral reefs to environmental forcing: morphometric analysis of coral reefs of the Maldives. PhD, Dalhousie University.

UNDP 2006. Developing a Disaster Risk Profile for Maldives, Male', United Nations Development Programme and Government of Maldives.

UNDP (2009).Detailed Island Risk Assessment of Maldives. Male': UNDP, Maldives.

YOUNG, I. R. 1999. Seasonal variability of the global ocean wind and wave climate. International Journal of Climatology, 19, 931–950.

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APPENDIX A – Terms of Reference

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Env,ronmenbl Proteciion.ne*.y EPA

No 203-EIARES/438/2017l159 Terms of Reference for Environmental lmpact Assessment for provision of Sewerage Network at Gemanafushi, Gaafu Alif Atol!

The following is lhe T.rms ofReference following lhe scoping m€etingheld on llr1g4bglulz for undertaking the EIA of the proposed provision of sewerage Iscilit! sl 9q9!!ib!L!.b!!!!L Gaafu AlifAloll. The p.opon€nt of the project is Ministry ofEnvironment rnd f,nergy.

While ever) attempt has been made to ensure that thrs TOR addresses all ol lhe major is\ue\ associated uith developmenl proposal. the) are not necessarilt e{laustile The} should not be rnrerpreted as excluding from considerarion matters deemed to be significant bul not incorporated in thcm. or matters currentl) unforeseen, that enrerSe as important or significanl from environmental studies. or otherwrse. during lhe course ofpreparalion olthe EIA report.

Introduction to the oroiect - Describe the purpose ofthe pmject and, ifapplicable, the background ofthe project and the tasks already completed Clearly ide iry the rationale and objectives to enable the formulation of ahematives, Define the armngements required for the environmental assessment including how work carried out under this contract rs linked and sequenced wilh other projects executed by other consultants. and how coordination between other consultants, contractoE and govemment institutions will be ca.rried out. List the donors and the institutions the consultafl will be coordinating with and the methodologies used.

2. Studv area - Submit an A3 size scaled plan rlith indications of all the proposed infmstructures Speciry the boundaries of lhe study area for the environmental impact assessmen( highlighting the location and size of the proposed sewemge network The study area should include adjacent and nearby environmentally imponant areas (e.g. coral reei mangroves, marine protected areas, special birds site, sensitive specres nursery and feeding Brounds). Relevant developments in the areas must also be addressed including residential areas, all economic ventures and cultural sttes.

3. lggDg_S!-EgIts ldentiry and number tasks of the project including site prcpamrion, consmrction and decommissioning phases.

Tesk 1. Description of lhe proposed project Provide a full description and justificarion ofthe relevant parts of the project, using maps at appropriate scales where necessary The following should be provided (all inputs and oulputs related to rhe proposed activiries shall bejustified):

House connection and laterals DescriptioD ofcarch pits and expecled depth ofthese catch pirs

Collection Sysrem . Type ofcollection (Sravity or forced) . Lifting stations ( ifany), type and number oflifting starions 4--.t-1-4. tdronm.6l.lPlotad'onA{ency

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. Road manholes (9?e and exp€cted numbe.). indicite using site plans . Sumps and pump stations

Sea outfall pipeline . Justiry oufall site selection including the distance liom the reef and depth offie pipe using oceanotraphic and ecological informalion. Curents and waves ought to quickly disperse the discharged water wit} minimum impacts on marine €cosystems and economic activiries Illustrate lhe extenr of the sediment plume. Thc public and stakeholders should support the locarion ofthe outfall site: . Describe equipmenl needed and construction methods for laying the offshore pipeline including handling and transportetion . Altemative location for the outfall pipeline should be included

STP plant facililv desim:

. Describe treatment technology and capacity (envisage population grouth in the next 30 years). . Speciry catchment area: All flows that contribute to the sewer system including flows from the development area to the point of connection to the main line. i.e. Residential flows + Commercial flows + lnslitutional flows + Indust ial flows (significantly variable depending on industry) + in6ltralion/lnflow (rainwater coll€clion, ifany): . Describ€ opemdons for dewateaing excavations for pump stations and sewer trenchesl . Mechenisms used to avoid pipe leakages protection groundwater contamination . Speciry an emergency plan ifsystem fails.

Selage colleclion and disposal network Detailed sewage and waste water disposal mechanisms. equipment used and periodiciry

Project management . Speciry materials, equipment, heavy machinery, staff estimate (quantity and period oftime). key personnel positions, intermittmt technical expertise requi.edl . Project management: lnclude communicalion of construclion details, progress, larget dates and duration of work, constructior/operatiodclosur€ of labo. camps. access to site, efety, equipment ard material storaSe, water supply, wasle management from construction operations (mainly dredged materials), power and fuel supply; . Dewatering schedule: This should include the lmations for dewatering for all the phases of the project and should include the location where this water would be discharged. r Decommissioning method and method of disposal of waste and sludge affer decommissioninS. . Temporary site setup location

Detailed description on each of the above components along with scaled maps and labeled drawings should be given includinS a detailed description ofaltemalives The description should rnclude an A3 size plan of proposed sewerage syslems with clearly labeled diawings, description of the tivronft dal PbHlon Aa.^q GE.i Brnd'.!, 3d rloor, H.nd,ruv!r..Hinsud 2t-. /t)-. L,ij , ,ii.j- i.j M.l.,R.polM.ld'v.j,10192 x e) i:t.t- ,ji p(.rrn,[email protected], r* t€6ot rtl r9.e I+9601 r3r 5es1 sN mv i|:

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technolos/ (type ofcollection, treatmenL emuent quality) with the prediction of population groMh in the next 35 years.

Tesk 2. D6cription of the existing ervironment Assemble, evaluates and present the environmental baseline studies/data rega:ding Lhe study dteu und ti ing ol lhe ptuject (e g monsoon season). Identify baseline data gaps alld identily studies and the level of detail to be carried out by consultant, plannin4 so that data collected is surtable for use as a baseline As such all baseline data must b€ presented in such a way that they will be us€fully applied to future monilorinS The .cpon should outline detailed merhodology ofdata collection utilizcd The baseline data will be collected before construction and from at least two b€nchmarks. All survey locations shall be r€ferenced with Ceographic Positioning System (CPS) including water sampling points, reef fansects, vegetation transects and manta tows sites for posterio. data compaoson.

nr utilized

Information should be divided into thc calegories shown below

o) Ph)srcalenrironment:

a. Ceneral climatic pattem (rainfall, wind) in the area of influence, precipftation, relative humidity and ambient tempc.atures b Noise level of proposed project sites c. A detailed description of the existing soil and geology, landscap€ and aesthetic appeal. Special emphasis should be placed on stonn water drainage pattems and effect on groundwater. d. Ocean current pattems around the island in particular of the localion where ourfalls will be located e. Marine warer quality at proposed, sewage outfall location and altemative location for outfalls- Marine water quality shall include i. For sewage outfall - pH, Salinity, E. Conductivity, TDS, Dissolved Orygen, Turbidity, Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD), Total Susp€nded Solids (TSS) and Total Coliform. Faecal coliforms f. Cround water quality of the island. Groundwater quality shall cover pammeters; temperature! pH, E{onductivity, chlo.ide, ammonia, sulphate, nitratc, BOD, COD, Total and Faecal coliforms

b) Biological entironment Marine and terrestflal environmental conditions of the impacted

Present a detailed description of rhe flora and fauna (marine and terrestrial) of the arca. Generally, species dependence, habitat niche specificity, community structure and diversity ought to be considered including 4-4-4_4. Envrcnm.el kordon A!.6.y

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A quantitative and qualitalive assessment of co.al rcefenvi.onment at the pmpos€d sewage discharge area.

A quantitative and qualitative assessment of coral reef at altemative discharge locations

Identiry marine protected areas (MPAS) and sensitive sites such as brceding o. nursery g.ounds for protected or endanger€d species (e.9. coral rcefs, spawning fish sites, nuEeaies for crustaceans or specific sites for marine manmals, sharks and turtles).

Bathymetry(at the proposed outfall location and altemative locations)

Terreslrial

. Type ofvegetation. number and e)rtenl ofvegetation lo be cleared (ifany).

. Terrestrial baseline monitoring sunounding all inland developments (See appendix I for monitoring guidelines). Include a description ofall flora and fauna and any lhrealened or endangered species in each ofthe proposed projecr islands

Existinq Seweraqe Infrastruclure (if exists) . Assess the existinS sewerage facilities including household septic tanks, soap pils. collection tanks near shore outfalls . ldentiry and suggesl best possible ofmean ofde- sludging and cleaning ofany such s€ptic tank and collection tanks . Suggcst and recommend the most environmentally sound method for disposal of any sludge removed from any such system Socio-economic environment . Demography: total population, sex .atio, density, Srowth and pressure on lend and menne tesources: . Land use planning, natural resource use and zoning ofactivities at sea; . Sites with historical or cultu.al interest or sacred places (mosques, graveyard).

T{sk 3. Irgiclative end reguhtory consideratiotrs ldentify the pertinent legislalion. regulations and standards. and environmental policies that are relevant and applicable to the proposed project, and identiry the appropriate authority jurisdiclions that will specifically apply to the project. Sho\l that th€ proponent has applied for all necessary pefinits Approvals are required from: . Environmental Prorection Agenc): 1--( -J_-1, [email protected][email protected] -r:t ,'r,ri iarrt.t, G.4n BrlldrL 3d Flry, Hr^dhuvn..Hin&i ,r-: -ri. i.rlij ir3 ,ri, +t Mtr., R.p of Mardiv6, 20392 20Je? ,t ,ia ,ii r.r: I+e6ol3r3!e4etre50t3!3s9t1 rrr l+9@l lll 5991 UP

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Task {, Polenlisl impacls (environmetrtal aod socio-cultural) of proposed projecl, incl. rll steges - The EIA report should identil) all rhc impacts (direct, indirect and cumulative) and evaluate the magnitude and significance of each. both from rhe insrallation oi sewerage network and seuaSe ourfall pipeline This shall include:

Terrcstrial impacts from cons[uction . [,oss of vegetation and fauna from land clearance activities, pump stations ar pipe work (deployment and dewatering): . Cround waterquality; lmpact from installingthe sewe.aqe outfall DiDeline . Impacts fiom marine habilat destruction which may affect fish stocks and species diversiry and density of inverlebrates, . lncreased turbidiry and changes in sediment transport due to pipe introduction when pipe is on the sea bedl . Equipment technical and spilla8e impacts during construction. Operational phase impacts from sewerage outfall pip€lines . Enrrainment and impinSement impacts . Marine ecosystem impacts fiom discharge ofsewage. Sewasc waste collection and disposal impacts . Speciry methods ofcollection and trarsportation to dump site. Social impacts: . Aesthetics on-land and underwat€. impacts from sewerage outfall pip€lines affecting recreational users. . Increased demands on nalural resources and services (powe. supply, land availability); . Land use displacement and economic opportunities.

The methods used to identiry the significance of the impacts shall be outlined. The report should outline the unc€rtainties in impact prediction and also outline all positive and neSative/short and lonS- te.m impacts. Identiry impacts that are cumulative and unavoidable

T.sk 5. Ahernstiv6 to proposed projecl - D€scrib€ altematives including the no dclion option' should be presenled. Determine the besl practical enviroDmental options. Alternatives examined for rhe proposed project that would achieve the same objective including the "no action alternative" This should include allematives for environmental. social and economic considerations such as altEmative location, plant capacity and outfall locations. The report should highlight how the location was determined. All altematives must be compared according to intemational standards and commonly accepted slandards as much as possible. The comparison should yield the prefe ed ahemative for implemeotation. Mitigalion options should be specified for each componenr ofGe proposed project.

T&sk 6. Mitigrtion rtrd mrnagcmetrl of negative impects ldentiry possible measures to prevent or reduce significant negative impacts to acceptable levels. Mrtigation measures must also be identified for both construclion and operahon phase Cost of the mitigation measwes. equipmenl and resources required to implerhent those measures should b€ specified The confirmation of commitment of the developer to implement lhe proposed mitigation measures shall also be included- An Irnvironmenhl management plan for the proposed project, identirying responsible :-t,: ;r:ii; iaritirr) i)-- .r-t j,,tj ,tt,tij. i-t Mir., iep orM.rd'v6, 20192 rer he6ot$3 re.e t+s5o)]r3 5s51 l+e6ol3r3s95r (uP

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p€rsons, their duties and commitments shall also be given. In cases where impacts are unavoidable arrangements to compensate for the environmental effect shall be givcn.

Trsk T.Irevelopment ofmonitorirg phb - ldentiS the critical issues requiring monitoring to ensure compliahce to mitigation measues and present impact managemcnt and monitoring plan for: . Physical pammeters such as ground and s€a water quality assessments and oceanographic studies . Biological pamrneters such as terrestrial monitoring. coral reefand benthic monitoring. fish community census near sewage outfall to assess damages and recovery rates:

Task 8. Strlcholder coNultatioD EIA repon should include a list of p€ople consulted and what were the major oulcomes. Identiry appropriate mechanisms to supply stakeholdeB and the public with information about the development proposal end its progress. Major stakeholder consultation shall includet . lsland Council . Ceneral Public . Ulility Providers

l@gglEbL- The environmenlal imp(rcl assessnenl reporl, lo be presenled in digilalfornal, vill be concise dnd Joctls on sighirtcant environnental issues. h wll conroin the Jindings, conclusions dnd reconmended actions s pporled by summories oJ the dota collected ond cilalions f ot dny rcIerences used in interpreting those data The environmental assessment repo ill he oryanized occoding to, b l nol necessarily linited by the outlihe giveh in lhe EIA Reguldtions,2012 and suhsequent

Monitoring reports will be submitted according to deadlrnes stated in rhe EIA report in a digitalized format to relevant institutions Inspections may bc performed to veriry lhat the developer is complying with the terms agreed in the EIA repo(

4. Relevsot documentrtion. referercls for coosultrrts Include publicly available studies or references relevant to the current project to be used by the consultant. Provide a.elevanl hrgh qualit) EIA lemplate for the consultant to follow Provide monitoring program guidelines

5. Timeframe for submittinp lhc EIA repon - Thc dc\clopcr nrl.l \lbrril lhe conrpfurcd LIA rcpon rvilhin 6 monlhs liom the date ofthis lerms olReference

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APPENDIX B – Approvals

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APPENDIX C – Site Plan

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APPENDIX D – Water Quality Report

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APPENDIX E – Work Plan

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ID Task Name Duration Start Finish Predecessors Qtr 3, 2017 Qtr 4, 2017 Qtr 1, 2018Qtr 2, 2018Qtr 3, 2018 Qtr 4, 2018 Qtr 1, 2019Qtr 2, 2019 AugSepOctNovDecJanFebMarAprMayJun Jul AugSepOctNovDecJanFebMarApr 1 SURVEY & DESIGN OF PROVISION Of 579 days Sun 8/13/17 Thu 3/14/19 2 SEWERAGESurvey and FACILITIES Design IN GA.GEMANAFUSHI 138 days Sun 8/13/17 Thu 12/28/17 3 EIA 50 days Sun 8/13/17 Sun 10/1/17 4 Design & EIA approvals 60 days Fri 10/27/17 Mon 12/25/17 3FS+25 days 5 Survey & design payment 3 days Tue 12/26/17 Thu 12/28/17 4 6 Procurement of Materials 108 days Fri 12/29/17 Sun 4/15/18 2 7 Pipes and fittings 90 days Fri 12/29/17 Wed 3/28/18 5 8 Catch Pits, Manholes, frames 90 days Fri 12/29/17 Wed 3/28/18 9 Pumps, electric Panels..etc 90 days Fri 12/29/17 Wed 3/28/18 10 SRC cement 90 days Fri 12/29/17 Wed 3/28/18 11 Delivery on site payment 21 days Mon 3/26/18 Sun 4/15/18 10FF+18 days 12 Site Mobilization for Construction 42 days Mon 4/16/18 Sun 5/27/18 6 13 Establishment of Contractors Office 21 days Mon 4/16/18 Sun 5/6/18 11 14 Establishment of Material Storage 21 days Mon 4/16/18 Sun 5/6/18 15 Establishment of Accomodations 21 days Mon 4/16/18 Sun 5/6/18 16 Site Mobilization payment 21 days Mon 5/7/18 Sun 5/27/18 5FS+20 days,15 17 Civil Works 261 days Mon 5/28/18 Tue 2/12/19 12 18 Sewerage Network 200 days Mon 5/28/18 Thu 12/13/18 15 19 Pumping Stations 200 days Mon 5/28/18 Thu 12/13/18 20 Pumping Main 180 days Mon 5/28/18 Fri 11/23/18 21 Sea Outfall 180 days Mon 5/28/18 Fri 11/23/18 22 House Connections 60 days Sat 11/24/18 Tue 1/22/19 21 23 Civil works payment (Note: Interim payment 21 days Wed 1/23/19 Tue 2/12/19 22 24 Mechanicalbillings will & be Electric made worksbased on progress) 21 days Wed 2/13/19 Tue 3/5/19 17 25 Pumping Stations 21 days Wed 2/13/19 Tue 3/5/19 22 26 Electro-mechanic works payment 21 days Wed 2/13/19 Tue 3/5/19 25FF 27 Testing, commisionung & handover 9 days Wed 3/6/19 Thu 3/14/19 24 28 Testing & Commissioning 7 days Wed 3/6/19 Tue 3/12/19 29 Project Handover 1 day Wed 3/13/19 Wed 3/13/19 28 30 Final Payment 1 day Thu 3/14/19 Thu 3/14/19 28,29

Task External Milestone Manual Summary Rollup Split Inactive Task Manual Summary Milestone Inactive Milestone Start-only Date: Wed 11/15/17 Summary Inactive Summary Finish-only Project Summary Manual Task Progress External Tasks Duration-only Deadline

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APPENDIX F – Bathy Chart

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APPENDIX G – Survey Location Map

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73°33'20"E 73°33'30"E 73°33'40"E 73°33'50"E 73°34'0"E 73°34'10"E 73°34'20"E 73°34'30"E 73°34'40"E 73°34'50"E N N " " 0 0 1 1 ' ' 7 7 2 2 ° ° 0 0

C01

N ! N " A " 0 0 ' ' 7 7 2 2 ° ° 0 0 Legend

C03 ! T A Currents 1 W1 ! !. A ! #0 Ground Water Samples N ! N " " 0 C!02 0 5 5 ' ! ' 6 6

2 ! 2 ° ! ! ° 0 A 0 ! Soil Profiles G2 ! O #0 G1 ! #0 !. Marine Water Samples C08 O! A! Marine Transects N N " " 0 C04 0 ! ! ! 4 4 ' ' Timed Swims 6 6 2 2 ° ! ° 0 A 0 Dredged Areas

Vegetation Line G3 W2 !. ! High Tide Line N #0 N " A " T C07 0 0 3

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' ! ! ' 6 ! ! 6 2 ! 2 ° ! ° 0 G4 ! ! 0 Low Tide Line ! ! ! ! C05 #0 ! !

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Gemanafushi Kudafahala Bihurehaa

73°33'20"E 73°33'30"E 73°33'40"E 73°33'50"E 73°34'0"E 73°34'10"E 73°34'20"E 73°34'30"E 73°34'40"E 73°34'50"E Uharehaa Bodubondeyyaa Kunbumaafushi Currents Ground Water Samples Transects Water Samples

SiteID X Y code X Y Site_ID X_Start Y_Start X_Start Y_Finish code X Y C09 73.5621 0.43979 G1 73.5696 0.44618 T1 73.5742 0.448 73.574 0.448396 W1 73.4613 4.9662 Gemanafushi, GA Atoll C01 73.5673 0.4504 G2 73.5681 0.446395 T2 73.5795 0.441444 73.5793 0.44183 W2 73.4616 4.96129 Sewerage project C02 73.5719 0.447068 G3 73.5684 0.442135 W3 73.4552 4.96446 C03 73.5767 0.447791 G4 73.5673 0.440963 Survey Locations C04 73.5711 0.444291 C05 73.5756 0.440709 PROJECTION: Transverse Mercator (UTM Zone 43 N); HORIZONTAL DATUM: WGS84; C06 73.5702 0.437264 VERTICAL DATUM: Hulhule Tide Gauge C07 73.5785 0.444015 Map version: 04/12/2017 C08 73.5623 0.445289 Surveyed and Prepared by: CDE Consulting, Maldives EIA for proposed provision of sewerage network at Gemanafushi, Gaafu Alif Atoll

APPENDIX H – CV of Consultants

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Ahmed Shaig Phone: (+960) 77 88 758 [email protected]

Personal Details Date of Birth: 19/02/1976 Nationality: Maldivian Gender: Male Marital Status: Married Permanent Address: Maldives Present Address: M. Muleege, Orchid Magu, Male’, Maldives.

Education PhD, Environmental Science, 2009 James Cook University, Townsville, Australia

Research degree on ‘Settlement Planning for Natural Hazard Resilience in Small Island States: The Population and Development Consolidation Approach’

BSc Land and Spatial Information Studies/Information Science. (double major), 1999-2001 University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand

Diploma in project planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation, 1995 ILO training Centre, Turin, Italy

Employment History

Director, Environmental Services 2008 to present CDE Consulting Supervisor: Dr. Simad Saeed Republic of Maldives Phone: +(960) 7777445 Head of environmental wing

Assistant Under-secretary, Spatial Planning 2002-2004 Ministry of Planning and National Development Supervisor: Hon. Hamdun Hameed Republic of Maldives Phone: +(960) 332-3919 Head of Spatial Planning Unit. Relevant Tasks include: ♦ Oversee environment related projects and application of environmental guidelines for planned projects. ♦ Plan, implement and oversee the development of a National GIS; ♦ Aid/facilitate/oversee urban planning, housing, land use planning, natural resource planning and environment related projects; Provide assistance in project planning (includes urban and regional planning, natural resources planning)

Project Manager, National Digital Mapping Project 2005 (8 months) Ministry of Planning and National Development Supervisor: Hon. Hamdun Hameed Republic of Maldives Phone: +(960) 332-3919 ♦ Project involved aerial photography and satellite imagery of entire Maldives, ground surveying of key settlements, digital conversion of data and setting up a Mapping Unit.

Assistant Planning Officer/Planning Officer 1994-1999 Ministry of Planning and National Development Supervisor: Mr. Mohamed Hunaif Republic of Maldives Phone +(960) 331-3040 Relevant tasks involved: ♦ Assisting in the National GIS Development Programme (Junior GIS developer) ♦ Facilitate urban planning, housing, land use planning, natural resource planning and environment related projects.

Ahmed Shaig page 1

Experience in Consultancy

. September 2002: Member of the team appointed for environmental surveying and carrying capacity assessment of islands for tourism development in the southern atolls of Maldives for Ministry of Tourism Maldives. . October 2002: Developed the Census GIS for United National Population Fund . December 2002: Developed the Maldives Protected Areas Systems GIS for Maldives Home Affairs Housing and Environment. . February 2003: Participated in the preparation of Royal Island and Spa Resort Annual Environmental Monitoring Report for Royal Island and Spa. . April 2003: Member of the team selected for developing town plans for urban centres in Northern and Southern Regional Development Zones, looking specifically into environmental control measures, for Ministry of Planning and National Development. . April 2003: Participated in the preparation of Environmental Impact Statement for Coastal Modifications on Rihiveli, South Malé Atoll, Maldives. . April 2003: Participated in the surveying and preparation of Environmental Impact Statement for the proposed coastal improvements to address coastal erosion concerns on Royal Island Spa Resort, Baa Atoll, Maldives. . May 2003: Participated in the bathymetry survey and preparation of Initial Environmental Examination for Deepening of Existing Entrance Channel to Service Jetty, Soneva Gili Resort and Spa, North Malé Atoll, Maldives . May 2003: Participated in the preparation of Initial Environmental Examination for development of an access channel into the natural inner lagoon (Vilu) of Mayafushi resort, North Ari Atoll. . May 2003: Participated in the preparation of Environmental Impact Assessment for Landaa Giraavaru Pvt. Ltd. for the development of a Four Season’s Tourist Resort on the island of Landaa Giraavaru in Baa Atoll, Maldives. . June 2003: Participated in survey and preparation of Initial Environmental Examination for the Development of a Mooring Area and Associated Beach Replenishment in, Boduhithi Club, North Malé Atoll, Maldives. . July 2003: Participated in the surveying and preparation of Initial Environmental Examination for Short- term and Long-term Shore Protection Measures at Alimatha Tourist Resort, Vaavu Atoll, Maldives. . July 2003: Conducted shoreline and vegetation line of Alimatha Tourist Resort, Vaavu Atoll, Maldives. . July 2003: Participated in the surveying for Initial Environmental Examination for Short-term and Long- term Shore Protection Measures at Dhiggiri Tourist Resort, Vaavu Atoll, Maldives. . July 2003: Participated in conducting and preparation of Fun Island Resort Annual Environmental Monitoring Report. . July 2003: Participated in conducting and preparation of Sun Island Resort Annual Environmental Monitoring Report. . July 2003: Participated in conducting and preparation of Holiday Island Resort Annual Environmental Monitoring Report. . August 2003: Developed the Initial Environmental Examination for the construction of Sun Decks along the southern beach of Kudarah Island Resort. . September 2003: Participated in surveying and preparation of Fonaddoo Environmental Impact Assessment Report for the development of fisheries complex, Fonaddoo, Maldives. . October 2003: Participated in surveying and preparation of Kuda Rah Erosion Study and recommendations for shore protection and erosion prevention . November 2003: Conducted vegetation and shoreline survey of Dhonveli Beach and Spa and Four Seasons Report for the Boundary Delineation between the two islands. . December 2003: Contributed to the Landuse Planning Guidelines of Maldives (environmental aspects) for Ministry of Housing and Urban Development. . December 2003: Contributed to the Development of a Building Code of Maldives for Ministry of Housing and Urban Development. . January 2004: Co-author to the Environmental Guidelines for the Development of Resort Islands in Maldives, Ministry of Tourism. . February 2004: Developed the Baa Atoll Spatial Development Plan for Ministry of Planning and National Development.

Ahmed Shaig page 2

. April-July 2004: Participated in the preparation of the Environmental aspects of the 8 bid proposals for resort Development for various proponents. . November 2005: Participated in the preparation of EIA for L.Gan Resettlement Project for Ministry of Housing. . December 2005: Participated in the surveying and preparation of EIA for Gn Fuvahmulaku Tourist Hotel Development . November 2005: Developed a GIS for strategic planning to select islands for tourism development for Ministry of Tourism. . January 2006: Local consultant for the Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) of Maldives Regional Development Plan, for AGRIFOR Consult Consortium, Belgium. . June 2006: Developed the Baa Atoll Resource Management GIS for Ministry of Environment and Energy. . August 2006: Consultant to the Integrated Climate Change System (ICCS) project – Assessment of vulnerability of Maldives Islands and Beaches to climate change . September 2006: Consultant to the ICCS project – Assessment of vulnerability of Maldives Infrastructure to climate change . November 2006: Consultant to the preparation of National Adaptation Programme of Action in Maldives for Ministry of Environment. . December 2006: Environmental Consultant to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Project: Disaster Risk Assessment of Selected nine Safe Islands in Maldives. . April 2007: Prepared the Coastal Erosion Assessment and Management Report for Ga.Meradhoo Island. . May 2007: Participated in the preparation of EIA for N. Randheli Resort Development Project, I&T Management group. . June 2007: Participated in the preparation of Millennium Development Goals, Maldives Country Report. . October 2007: Natural Hazard Assessment consultant to the UNDP Project: Disaster Risk Assessment of Selected Safe Islands in Maldives. . November 2007: Prepared the EIA for proposed coastal protection, beach replenishment and access improvement of Elaa, Thaa Atoll, for Mr Abbas Mohamed, H. Merry Rose. . May 2009: Participated in the preparation of EIA for sand sourcing and beach replenishment project of Viligilli Island, Addu Atoll, for Shangri-La at Viligilli.. . April 2009: Participated in the preparation of EIA for N. Maafaru Airport Development Project for Noonu Hotels Pvt Ltd. . May 2009: Participated in the preparation of EIA for resort development in Huvandhumaavattaru, Noonu Atoll . June 2009: Prepared a status of the environment report Randheli Island, Noonu Atoll. . July 2009: Prepared the Environmental EIA for harbour development in Fiyoari, Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll. . July 2009: Participated in the preparation of EIA for Jetty and arrival lounge development project in Gan, Addu Atoll, for Island Aviation Services Private Limited. . July 2009: Team Leader for the socio-economic risk assessment of Selected Safe Islands in Maldives. . August 2009: Coastal erosion data synthesis for selected islands of Maldives, for World Bank Maldives Environmental Management Project. . September 2009: Prepared the beach management plan and development control measures for Reethibeach Island Resort, Baa Atoll. . September 2009: Participated in the preparation of EIA for agricultural island development in Felivaru, Noonu Atoll, for Fantasy Private Limited. . September 2009: Consultant to review the safer islands programme and cost benefit study of mitigation measures in three islands in the Maldives for UNDP. . October 2009: Consultant to the Maldives Environmental Management Project for waste management technical assistance for World Bank. . December 2009: Environmental consultant for advising on resort development and development control measures in Randheli Island, Noonu Atoll. . January 2010: Prepared the beach management plan and development control measures for Shangri-La Island Resort, Addu Atoll. . January 2010: Consultant to the Atoll Ecosystem Conservation project conservation component defining conservation areas and development controls. . February 2010: Prepared the environmental audit of Thunbafushi Island, Kaafu Atoll, for Champa Brothers Private Limited.

Ahmed Shaig page 3

. March 2010: Prepared the beach management plan and development control for Herathera Island Resort, Addu Atoll. . March 2010: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for power plant upgrading project in Palm Beach Island in Lhaviyani Atoll. . April 2010: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for Seagrass removal and beach replenishment project in Olhuveli Island Resort and Spa, Kaafu Atoll. . April 2010: Prepared an EIA addendum for resort development in Gaakoshibee Island, Shaviyani Atoll. . May 2010: Consultant to undertake island environmental scoping studies in 30 islands in North Maldives to determine islands with resort development potential for GMR Group of India. . May 2010: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for harbour development project in Madidhoo Island, Shaviyani Atoll. . June 2010: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for deep piling project in Olhuveli Island Resort and Spa, Kaafu Atoll. . July 2010: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for the development of an aquaculture site in Kanduoigiri, Kaafu Atoll. . July 2010: Environmental planning consultant for Shangri-La at Viligilli Maldives, Addu Atoll. . July 2010: Environmental planning consultant to the Addu Land Use Planning project (including defining development controls) in Addu Atoll Maldives for South Province Office. . August 2010: Environmental Consultant for the Atoll Ecosystem Conservation Project to declare Baa Atoll as a UNESCO Biosphere reserve. . September 2010: Lead author in the EIA for Seagrass removal and beach replenishment project in Herathera Island, Addu Atoll. . September 2010: Lead author in the EIA for resort redevelopment in Vilamendhoo Island Resort, Ari Atoll. . September 2010: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for Gulhifalhu land reclamation project in Gulhifalhu, Male’ Atoll, for Capital Investment and Finance Limited, UK. . September 2010: Participated in the preparation of EIA for sewerage system development project in Miladhoo, Noonu Atoll. . October 2010: Consultant to undertake the coastal adaptation survey of 40 islands in Maldives for Ministry of Housing and Environment. . November 2010: Environmental consultant for advising on resort development and development control measures in Maamigili Island, Raa Atoll . January 2011: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for sewerage and water system development project in Hithadhoo Island, Addu City for Bi-water International Private Limited. . February 2011: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for sewerage and water system development project in Maradhoo Island, Addu City for Bi-water International Private Limited. . March 2011: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for sewerage and water system development project in Feydhoo Island, Addu City for Bi-water International Private Limited. . April 2011: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for sewerage and water system development project in Maradhoo-Feydhoo Island, Addu City for Bi-water International Private Limited. . May 2012: Coastal erosion mitigation assessment and planning for Six Senses Laamu, Laamu Atoll . January 2012: Lead author in the preparation of EIA for sewerage and water system development project in Fuvahmulah Island, Addu City for Bi-water International Private Limited. . February 2012: Coastal erosion mitigation assessment and planning for Fushivelavaru Island . March 2012: EIA for the proposed resort redevelopment project in Conrad Rangali Island for Champa and Crown Resorts . March 2012: EIA for the proposed resort redevelopment project in Gasfinolhu Island Resort, Champa and Crown Resorts . May 2012: Environmental consultant for advising on resort development and development control measures in Gasfinolhu Island, Male’ Atoll . June 2012: Environmental consultant for advising on resort development and development control measures in Nakachchaa Huraa Island, Male’ Atoll . April 2012: Member of the consultant team that prepared the Tourism Opinion and Profile Survey 2011, Ministry of Tourism. . October 2012: Environmental consultant to the preparation of 4th Tourism Master plan for Ministry of Tourism, Maldives. . November 2013: Environmental consultant for advising on land reclamation, resort development and development control measures in Dhiffushi Island Reef, Male’ Atoll.

Ahmed Shaig page 4 . January 2013: Environmental consultant for advising on resort development and development control measures in Hankede Island, Addu Atoll . January 2013: Environmental consultant for advising on resort development and development control measures in Hankede Island, Addu Atoll June 2013: Local Environment consultant to the WCCM project, HIDRIA and Aquatica, Spain. . June 2015: Environmental consultant for Nasandhura Palace Hotel Redevelopment EIA, 15-storey building, Male'City . June 2015: Environmental consultant for Male-Hulhule Bridge, Borehole Drilling EIA, Male' City . July 2015: Environmental consultant for Male-Hulhule Bridge EIA, Male' City . September 2015: Environmental consultant for Development of Tertiary Hospital in Hulhumale . July 2015: Environmental consultant for Development of 9-Storey Building for ADK, Male'City

Ahmed Shaig page 5

Membership of Professional Bodies . Member of Building Code Committee, Maldives . Member of Commission on Sustainable development . Member of the Technical Committee for Developing Spatial Plans for conducting tourism related activities in Ari Atoll. . Member of Climate Advisory Council to the President of Maldives 2009- to present. . Registered EIA Consultant in Maldives Environment Protection Agency roster.

Major Publications

SHAIG, A. (2001) "An Overview of Web Based Geographic Information Systems". In Proceedings: Thirteenth Annual Colloquium of the Spatial Information Research Centre. P.A. Whigham (ed). 2 - 5 Dec, Dunedin, New Zealand. University of Otago, pp.255-264.

SHAIG, A. (2006). Climate Change Vulnerability and Adaptation Assessment of the Coastal Infrastructure of Maldives. Technical Paper submitted to Maldives National Adaptation Plan of Action for Climate Change. Ministry of Environment, Energy and Water, Male', Maldives.

SHAIG, A. (2006). Climate Change Vulnerability and Adaptation Assessment of the Land and Beaches of Maldives. Technical Paper submitted to Maldives National Adaptation Plan of Action for Climate Change. Ministry of Environment, Energy and Water, Male', Maldives.

SHAIG, A. (2007) Land Study of Maldives, 2006. Ministry of Planning and National Development, Male’ Maldives.

SHAIG, A. and Aslam, M (2007) Detailed Island Risk Assessment Maldives Volume I to Volume IV – Natural Hazard Assessment (Final Draft). UNDP, Male’ Maldives

SHAIG, A. (2007) Detailed Island Risk Assessment Maldives Volume I to Volume IV – Environmental Vulnerability Assessment (Final Draft). UNDP, Male’ Maldives.

Academic Achievements

2001 Critchlow Associates Prize in Surveying, New Zealand. Prize awarded annually by University council for the highest standard of Achievement in Spatial Information Studies in University of Otago. 1994 Certificate for best results in General Certificate of Examinations, Advanced Level. Science Education Centre, Male’, Maldives

References

Hamdun Hameed David King, Dr. Member of Parliament Associate Proffessor Male’, Maldives James Cook University Tel: (+960) 3323414 Townsville, QLD,Australia, 4811 [email protected] Tel: (+61) 747 81 4441 ,Fax: (+61) 747 81 5581 Email: [email protected] Simad Saeed, Dr Managing Director, Peter Valentine CDE Consulting Head of School, TESAG Department Male’, Maldives James Cook University Tel: +960 777 7445 Townsville, QLD,Australia, 4811 Email: [email protected] Tel: (+61) 747 81 4441 ,Fax: (+61) 747 81 5581 Email: [email protected]

Ahmed Shaig page 6

Clarification

I, the undersigned, certify that to the best of my knowledge and belief, this CV correctly describes myself, my qualifications and my experience. I understand that any willful misstatement described herein may lead to my disqualification or dismissal, if engaged.

Signature Date: 15 July 2013

Ahmed Shaig page 7 ALI MOOSA DIDI 4th floor, MA. Rose Villa • Dhevina Magu • Male' • Maldives • 00 960 791-2001• [email protected]

A highly motivated individual with a hardworking attitude and over ten years of experience in the surveying industry of the Maldives.

Personal

Name: Ali Moosa Didi Date of Birth: 18th June 1985 Gender: Male Marital Status: Single NID No: A-154179

Education

UNIVERSITY OF CAMBRIDGE, GCE ORDINARY LEVEL (JAN 1997) Madharasthul Islamiya School Male’, Rep of Maldives

Employment

SURVEYOR (FULL TIME) (January 2010 – PRESENT) CDE Pvt Ltd Male', Rep of Maldives Conducting field based surveying activities; including shoreline mapping exercises, vegetation assessments, topographic surveys and hydrographic surveys. Work duties also include the consequent data processing and mapping activities of all the surveys conducted at the office.

HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICER (FULL TIME) (January 2010 – PRESENT) Ryco Investment Pvt Ltd Male', Rep of Maldives Assisted the Office Manager in handling all the human resources related duties of the Office, including Payroll processing.

ASSISTANT SURVEYOR (FULL TIME) (January 2010 – PRESENT) CDE Pvt Ltd Male', Rep of Maldives Assiting field based surveying activities; including shoreline mapping exercises, vegetation assessments, topographic surveys and hydrographic surveys. Work duties also included the consequent data processing and mapping activities of all the surveys conducted at the office.

俀A Skills

 Competent in using Surveying Equipment and Accessories  Intermediate in Microsoft Applications  Intermediate in ArcGIS application

俀A

Work Experience

• Travelled to all 20 atolls of the Maldives • Over 100+ islands in the Maldives; including 20+ Resorts, 50+ Inhabited islands and 30+ Uninhabited islands and their associated reef systems Some of the EIA’s that I have worked on as a member of the team, or contributed to the field surveying work (Past 5 years only); • Tourism Development Projects: . Adh. Bodukaashihuraa Resort Development EIA . B. Dhigufaruvinagandu Resort Development EIA . K. Madivaru Resort Development EIA . Lh. Fushifaru Resort Development EIA . N. Thanburudhuffushi Picnic Island Development EIA . K. Gasfinolhu Addendum EIA (Palm transplanting) . K. Taj Vivanta Resort Shore Protection EIA . Lh. Maabinhuraa Resort Development EIA . Aa. Maagaa Resort Development EIA . Aa. Madivaru Finolhu Resort Development EIA . Olhuveli Lagoon Reclamation EIA . Dh. Aluvifushi Resort Development EIA . Lh. Huruvalhi Resort Development EIA • Agricultural Development Projects: . Sh. Madidhoo Agricultural Development EIA . Lh. Maduvarri Agricultural Development EIA . N. Minaavaru Agricultural Development EIA • Airport Development Projects: . R. Ifuru Airport Development EIA . N. Maafaru Airport Development EIA • Major public/ private sector Projects: . Tree Top Hospital Development EIA . Nasandhura Palace Hotel Redevelopment EIA . Thilafushi Harbor Development EIA . Male-Hulhule Bridge, Borehole Drilling EIA . Male-Hulhule Bridge EIA . Addu and Fuvahmulah ESIA for Wetland Project

References

Simad Saeed, PhD Ahmed Shaig, PhD Managing Director Director CDE Pvt Ltd CDE Pvt Ltd 4th Floor, Orchidmaage, Ameeruahmed Magu, 4th Floor, Orchidmaage, Ameeruahmed Magu, Male’Maldives Male’Maldives [email protected] [email protected] Tel: +960 331 2514 Tel: +960 331 2514 Fax: +960 331 5926 Fax: +960 331 5926

Ali Nishaman Nizar G. Dhoores Villa, 20132 06th March 1988 (00) 960 778 5767 [email protected]

A strategic and creative thinker who has effective communication and writing skills, and is ready and willing to use my skills and knowledge to add significant value to aid in your organization’s development and enhance its values.

EDUCATION

Cyprus Forestry College (2006 - 2008) Ø Adv. Diploma in Forestry

Center for Higher Secondary Education (2004 - 2006) Ø Edexcel - G.C.E. A’levels (Statistics, Business, Accounts) Ø Cambridge - Certificate in Advanced English

Majeedhiyya School (2001 - 2003) Ø Cambridge - O’levels (Mathematics, Economics, Commerce, English, Accounts)

EXPERIENCE

Terrestrial Environment Consultant – CDE Consulting, (July 13 – Present) Ø Provides technical assistance to various national and international projects, specifically providing input in areas such as; wetlands, agriculture, forestry, vegetation mapping, mangroves, waste management, composting…etc. Ø Working on and contributing to several Environmental Impact Assessment studies. Ø In charge of sourcing/developing innovative tools and methodologies for improving teamwork and cohesion at the office. Ø Lead designer for iPad based surveys and in charge of the Data Management System for surveys.

Local Consultant – Vegetation Expert – Hidria, Spain, (May 13 – Aug 13) Ø Worked as a local consultant for Hidria, on developing the Wetland Management Plan for Addu Hithadhoo Eidhigali Kilhli and Gn.Fuvahmulah Bandaara & Dhandimagu Kilhi. Ø Specifically on the areas of terrestrial biodiversity and vegetation mapping.

CSR Consultant – Secure Bag Maldives Pvt Ltd (Jan 12 – Jan 13) Ø In charge of all activities of the company to improve its CSR image. Ø In charge of handling all the activities carried out on the company owned Private Island. This includes doing various agricultural activities such as hydroponics, goat keeping, poultry, orchid farming, land-based agriculture and agro-tourism. The task involves leading staff personnel of 13 employees on the island. Ø Developed a home-based CSR project to organize and reduce household waste. Ø Developed a school program to increase awareness of recycling.

Agriculture Implementation Officer (AIO) – Project Implementation Unit, MOFA (Oct 10 – Jun 13) Ø Worked on the “Post-Tsunami Agriculture and Fisheries Rehabilitation Programme” & the “Fisheries and Agriculture Diversification Programme” Ø In charge of planning, organizing and implementing all the activities under the agriculture component of the project. Ø Planning and coordinating all agriculture and cooperative related training programs. Ø Focal point for forming and mobilizing agriculture cooperatives in island based communities. Ø Lead instructor for conducting Enumerator Training Programs and the Team leader for conducting baseline surveys for FADIP project Ø Established 5 agricultural cooperatives in the Maldives and working closely towards the formation of several additional cooperatives.

Head of Agriculture Research & Extension – Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture (Jan 10 – Sept 10) Ø Lead a team of 5 staff at the Agriculture Research and Extension Section in the Capital city and an additional 15 staff at our regional research centers in the North and South Ø Devised agricultural research programs that develop and improve agriculture in a sustainable manner in the country. Ø Conducted training programs, workshops and awareness session at various venues.

Marketing Manager – BCube Signage Pvt Ltd (Aug 08 – Present) Ø In charge of handling all marketing and client relations for the company. Ø Designed layouts and concept notes for various publications and marketing campaigns. Ø Lead focal point for all communications with the company’s foreign suppliers and local clients.

Agriculture Officer – Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture (Aug 08 – Dec 09) Ø Handled the “Training & Extension Unit” (Agriculture Division). Ø Planned and coordinated all agriculture related training programs in the Maldives on a daily basis according to the staff availability. Ø Promoted general agriculture and other related activities using modern extension methodologies. Ø Conducted training programs, workshops and awareness session at various venues.

National Project Assistant – F.A.O, United Nations (Aug 06 – Oct 06) Ø Worked on a Post-Tsunami forest rehabilitation project. Ø Worked with international consultants on several aspects of Maldivian forestry, agriculture and especially focusing upon Maldivian Mangrove ecosystems. Ø Worked closely with community members, local officials and visiting consultants in understanding local environments. Ø Studied the different vegetation types in the Maldives (30 islands, mostly including wetlands).

Graphic Designer – BCube Signage Pvt Ltd (Jan 04 – Oct 06) Ø Designed various logos and graphics for several clients. Ø Created layouts and concept designs for several clients Ø Create routine layouts for signboards. Ø Design graphic advertisements ready for print, billboard and signboards.

WORKSHOPS / SHORT-TERM TRAININGS ATTENDED

Ø 2009, § Workshop on Strengthening Plant Quarantine and Inspection, Male’, Maldives, 15-16 July 2009 § “Awareness of Food Security” Workshop, Male’, Maldives, 22nd October 2009 § Workshop on Updating and Finalization of the Agriculture Development Master Plan (ADMP), Male, Maldives, 21st December 2009

Ø 2010, § Fisheries & Agriculture Diversification Programme, Financial, Procurement & M&E Training, Male’, Maldives, 26-28 January 2010 § Team Leaders Meeting, 8th Virtual University for Small States of the Commonwealth’s (VUSSC) International Training and Materials Development Workshop, Singapore, 14-20 April 2010 § Prevention, Control and Management of Forest Invasive Species in South Asia, (by APFSIN), Male’, Maldives, 29th April 2010 § 8th Virtual University for Small States of the Commonwealth’s (VUSSC) International Training and Materials Development Workshop, Male’, Maldives, 15-31 March 2011 § Loan Administration Training, Hdh.Kulhudhuhfushi, Maldives, 3-8 July 2010 § Workshop to Finalize the Draft Pesticides and Plant Protection Bill, Male’, Maldives, 12-13 July 2010 § International Workshop on Climate Change Extreme Events Adaptation Practices and Technological Solutions, New Delhi, 16-18 August 2010

Ø 2011, § FADIP “Rolling Baseline Survey” Workshop, Male, Maldives, 2-3 March 2011 § Knowledge Sharing in Asia Workshop #3: Participatory Techniques in the Field, Godavri, Nepal, 30th March 2011 – 2nd April 2011 § Knowledge Sharing in Asia Workshop #2: Writing to Share Knowledge Effectively, Godavri, Nepal, 3-6 April 2011 § Consultation Workshop for Facilitators on Cooperatives and Business Development, UNDP Building, Male, Maldives, 21st April 2011 § AFE’s Workshop on “Value Chain Program Design”, Chiang Mai, Thailand, 12-16 September 2011 § Training of Trainers Workshop on Systematization, Nepal, 8-10 December 2011

Ø 2012, § Workshop on Knowledge Management, tools and techniques (as a trainer for the programme), Maldives, 29th November 2012 – 02nd December 2012 § Partnering 4 Development Forum, UNDP, Paradise Island Resort, 2nd December 2012

Ø 2013, § Consultative Workshop on ICRAF’s Capacity Development Strategy & ICRAF’s South Asian Partner’s Capacity Needs Assessment, BRAC (Bangladesh Rural Advancement Committee) Centre, 30-31 January 2013 § Certificate in Co-operative Poverty Reduction, Co-operative College of Malaysia, Malaysia, 3-21 March 2013

ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT WORK Ø Was a member of the team, and provided contributions to both the field work and report writing of the following EIA’s: Ø Tourism Development Projects: § Adh. Bodukaashihuraa Resort Development EIA § B. Dhigufaruvinagandu Resort Development EIA § K. Madivaru Resort Development EIA § Lh. Fushifaru Resort Development EIA § N. Thanburudhuffushi Picnic Island Development EIA § K. Gasfinolhu Addendum EIA (Palm transplanting) § K. Taj Vivanta Resort Shore Protection EIA Ø Agricultural Development Projects: § Sh. Madidhoo Agricultural Development EIA § Lh. Maduvarri Agricultural Development EIA Ø Airport Development Projects: § R. Ifuru Airport Development EIA § N. Maafaru Airport Development EIA Ø Major public/ private sector Projects: § Tree Top Hospital Development EIA § Nasandhura Palace Hotel Redevelopment EIA § Male-Hulhule Bridge, Borehole Drilling EIA § Male-Hulhule Bridge EIA § Addu and Fuvahmulah ESIA for Wetland Project

ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENTS

Cyprus Forestry College (2006 - 2008) Ø Highest Overall Performance: Presidential Prize (2nd prize) Ø Best Academic Performance: Nature Conservation Ø Best Academic Performance: Ecology Ø Best Botanical Collection Ø Best Fire Protection Project Ø Best Forest Management Project Ø Best Nursery Management Project

Center for Higher Secondary Education (2004 - 2006) Ø 10th place in the national Top Ten.

Majeedhiyya School (2001 - 2003) Ø 8th place in the national Top Ten. Ø A Prefect

PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS Ø Designed and structured an online system to coordinate training programs and staff travel plans. This lead to an overall increase in the number of trainings by 400% from 2008 to 2009. Ø Played active roles in the planning and organizing of key events and workshops such as; § Agriculture Fair 2009, Hdh.Kulhudhuhfushi § Farmers Day 2009, F.Nilandhoo § Food Security Workshop 2009, (In collaboration with Department of National Planning) Ø Worked with a team from the Sultanate of Oman on a research program focusing on the local mango variety “Dhivehi Anbu”. The discovery of the Maldivian mango variety having a polyembryonic seed structure was one of the key findings of the research. Ø Co-director and technical advisor for the Agriculture TV program, “dhanduveriya” for a full season, featuring over 13 episodes. Ø Group leader in a materials development workshop for a course titled “Diploma in Sustainable Agriculture for Small States” for the Commonwealth of Learning, collaborating with 20 other experts from different parts of the world. My work was focused on writing specifically the chapters of “Agriculture Production Systems” and the “Importance of Working Together (CBPO’s)”. Ø Team leader for the “Fisheries and Agriculture Diversification Program” (FADiP) baseline survey on the RIM’S Impact Questionnaires and the Project Questionnaire which included over 450 households in 4 different islands. Ø Introduced an iPad-based real-time data entry system in 2014, that eliminated the need for paper- based questionnaire forms, reduced survey times, improved security features and provided real-time partial analytics on the data for our clients, at CDE. This system has since been replicated in over 5 separate surveys carried out by CDE.

SKILLS Ø ICT Competent (MS Applications, Corel Suite…etc) Ø Flexible to travel at any time Ø Able to Multi-task and work in stressful conditions Ø Able to co-ordinate and work with CBPO’s / Co-operatives / NGO’s Ø Decision Making Skills Ø Logistical Planning Skills Ø Good Interpersonal Skills (Community Consultation Expert, specifically on participatory approaches and conflict resolution exercises) Ø Training Skills in “Agri-Business”, “General Agriculture”, “Hydroponics”, “Agro-Forestry”, “Home-gardening”, “Baseline Surveys” and “Co-operatives”.

MEMBERSHIPS IN PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS Ø Bluepeace - an Environmental NGO o Advisor on environmental and agricultural issues since the year 2009. o Participated in several beach and reef cleanup programs. o A member since the year 2008. Ø United Artists of Maldives - an association focusing on Maldivian Art and Artisans o Sits in the Steering committee of UAM as the Media Coordinator, since January 2013 o Participated in the International Hay Festival Activities held in the Maldives in 2010. o A member since the year 2008. Ø UN Global Compact Maldives Network - a network of local private sector parties o Representative for Addu Meedhoo Cooperative Society o Representative for CDE Consulting

REFEREES Ø Dr. Ahmed Shaig, Director of Environment, CDE Consulting, [email protected] +9607788758

Ø Dr. Aminath Shafia, Former State Minister, Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture, [email protected] +9607792458

LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY Ø Fluent in both writing and reading of Dhivehi (mother tongue) Ø Fluent in both writing and reading of English Mohamed Faizan

Contact Details

Address: H. Pent Land, Lansimoo Goalhi, 20041 Male’, Maldives

Tel: +960-7501205

E-mail: [email protected]

Education

August 2012 – October 2014 University of Malaya, (Malaysia) - Master of Technology (Environmental management) - Dissertation title “Study on the impact of anthropogenic pressure on coral reefs around Cape Rachado, Malacca and recommendations to improve its management”

July 2006- June 2010 International Islamic University Malaysia, (Malaysia) - Bachelor of Biotechnology (Honours). - Final year thesis title “Spatio-temporal study on coastline changes along Tanjung Lumpur – Cherok Paloh Coast”.

June 2002 – June 2004 Centre for Higher Secondary School, (Maldives) - GCE Advanced level.

January 1997 – February 2002 Majeediyaa School, (Maldives) - GCE Ordinary level.

Employment History

July 2014 – Present CDE Consulting - Environmental Consultant at CDE Consulting. Roles and responsibilities include preparation of Environmental Impact Assessment reports, undertaking environmental baseline surveys, and conduct environmental monitoring.

June 2010 – July 2012 CDE Consulting - Environmental Consultant at CDE Consulting. Responsibilities included undertaking environmental baseline studies for Environmental Impact Assessments, and environmental monitoring. In addition, co-ordination of field surveys.

February 2005 – April 2006 Integrated Climate Change Strategy - Project Assistant for the Integrated Climate Change Strategy implemented by Ministry of Environment, Energy and Water (Maldives). - Responsibilities included assisting the project manager, in preparation of financial reports, organizing workshops. - Helped launch monthly newsletter on climate change “Nakaiy”.

EIA experience

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Proponent Date

EIA for the proposed Malé-Hulhulé bridge Ministry of Housing and July 2015 - Undertook the marine baseline assessment surveys, Infrastructure and prepared marine assessment report

EIA for the proposed redevelopment of of Nasandhuraa Nasandhura Palace June 2015 Palace Hotel Hotel Investments - Undertook the marine baseline assessment surveys Private Limited

EIA for the proposed resort development in Shuaz Investment May 2015 Madivaru,Kaafu Atoll Private Limited - Undertook the marine baseline assessment surveys

EIA for the proposed Coral Reef rejuvenation project at Velaa Private Island March 2015 Velaa Private Island - Undertook the baseline assessment surveys, including stakeholder consultations. Complied the EIA report.

EIA for the proposed Coral Gardening at Shangri-La’s Shangri-La’s Villingili February 2015 Villingili Resort & Spa Resort & Spa - Undertook the baseline assessment surveys, including stakeholder consultations. Complied the EIA report.

EIA for the proposed sewerage system project at Male’ Water and April 2014 Kanditheem, Shaviyani Sewerage Company Pvt - Marine environment assessment and report for the Ltd EIA

EIA for the proposed beach replenishment project in Holiday Inn Resort April 2014 Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma, Maldives, South Male’ Kandooma Maldives Atoll - Marine environment assessment and report for the EIA

EIA report for the proposed sewerage system at Mr. Ibrahim Shazyl, February 2012 Maduvvari, Raa Atoll Venture Maldives Pvt - Undertook the baseline assessment surveys, Ltd including stakeholder consultations. Complied the EIA report.

EIA report for the proposed installation and operation of Mr. Ismail Shafeeu, January 2012 desalination plant at Hithaadhoo, Baa Atoll Static Company Pvt Ltd - EIA report compilation.

EIA report for the proposed Solid Waste Management Tatva Global Renewable December facility at Thilafushi Energy (Maldives) 2011 - Baseline marine assessments and EIA report Private Limited compilation.

EIA for the development of a domestic airport on Bonavvista (Maldives) October 2011 Koodoo, GA. Atoll Private Limited - Undertook baseline assessments for the EIA, and Singapore prepared the existing environment chapter for the EIA.

EIA prepared for the proposed harbor entrance channel Ministry of Housing and August 2011 dredging project in Bodufolhudhoo Island, North Ari Environment Atoll - Undertook the baseline assessments for the EIA, and prepared the existing environment chapter of the EIA and compiled the overall EIA report.

EIA prepared for the proposed re-development – phase I Mr. Hussain Afeef July 2011 of Gasfinolhu Island Resort, Kaafu Atoll, Maldives - Baseline marine assessments and report preparation for the EIA.

EIA prepared for the proposed re-construction of Ministry of Housing and March 2011 Shaviyani Foakaidhoo Harbour Environment - Undertook the marine baseline assessments and, prepared the marine assessment report for the EIA.

EIA for the sewerage system development in N. Miladhoo Works Corporation September - Marine environment assessments Limited 2010

Mohamed Ali

ID #: A 094918 Nationality: Maldivian Languages: English, Sinhalese, Dhivehi Date of Birth: 13/09/1983 Telephone: 960-790-6007 Email: [email protected]

Experience Marine Environmental Specialist June 2011- Present CDE Consulting

Marine Environment Officer July 2008 – May 2011 Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru

Freelance Lobster Hunter, Shark Fisherman Jan 2007 - July 2008 Laamu Atoll

Dock Assistant Sep 2006 - Jan 2007 Tourist Submarine Maldives

Education and Certifications PADI Rescue Diver June 2011 PADI Enriched Air Diver June 2011 Emergency First Responder May 2011

Basic Computer Science 2001 - 2006 Singapore Informatics, Colombo Sri Lanka

Profile I am very passionate about protecting the marine environment. After having worked as both a fisherman and a marine environment officer I am aware of the impact that human activity has on our fragile marine environment. My favorite activities are reef monitoring and planting coral gardens. With my undying passion for the underwater world and also with my vast experience diving all over the Maldives, educating people on the marine environment is my greatest mission, to ensure the preservation and protection of our most valuable treasure. Furthermore, I have got the opportunity to work besides the greatest marine experts in the world namely Prof. J.E.N. Veron,Dr. Norman Queen and Dr. Daphne G. Fautin.

References

N.D. Abdul Azeez Abdul Hakeem Former Director of Conservation Mobile: + 960 7784263 Banyan Tree Maldives

Dr. Steve Newman Former Marine Lab Manager at Banyan Tree [email protected]

Robert James Former Marine Lab Manager at Banyan Tree

EIA for proposed provision of sewerage network at Gemanafushi, Gaafu Alif Atoll

APPENDIX I – Commitment Letter

Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|114

EIA for proposed provision of sewerage network at Gemanafushi, Gaafu Alif Atoll

APPENDIX K – Acknowledgment of Receipt by Gaafu Alif Atoll Council

Prepared by: CDE Consulting Page|115